Scott McInnis

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the life and legacy of Bonnie Holtby of Prineville, Oregon. Bonnie bravely battled the Storm King Mountain Fire outside the town of Glenwood Springs, Colorado in 1994, but succumbed to the blaze along with thirteen fellow firefighters while working to protect the City. I personally served as a firefighter and understand the risks they face each and every day. Witnessing the awful inferno that fateful July day, I know Bonnie and her comrades battled the fire with the utmost courage and valor. With the tenth anniversary of the Storm King Fire approaching, I believe it appropriate to recognize the sacrifice Bonnie and the Storm King Firefighters made on behalf of a grateful community, state and nation. A third generation firefighter, Bonnie was in her third season with the Prineville Hotshots, an elite group of firefighters who specialize in wildland fire suppression. An exceptional student-athlete, Bonnie participated in basketball, track, cross-country, and weight training during high school, receiving numerous scholar-athlete awards. She was also active in 4-H, which now provides a memorial award in her honor to a 4-H member who exhibits leadership, sportsmanship, and overall success in 4- H livestock and small animal projects. She was a dedicated member of her crew, and received a great deal of satisfaction from helping others. Above all, she was devoted to her family and friends. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to rise before this body of Congress and this nation to pay tribute to the life and memory of Firefighter Bonnie Holtby. Bonnie personified the Hotshots credo of Safety, Teamwork and Professionalism; putting herself in harm's way for unfamiliar people and places. She made the ultimate sacrifice doing what she loved, and I, along with the Glenwood Springs community and the State of Colorado are eternally grateful to this brave young woman.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the life and legacy of Terri Hagen of Prineville, Oregon. Terri bravely battled the Storm King Mountain Fire outside the town of Glenwood Springs, Colorado in 1994, but succumbed to the blaze along with thirteen fellow firefighters while working to protect the City. I personally served as a firefighter and understand the risks they face each and everyday. Witnessing the awful inferno that fateful July day, I know Terri and her comrades battled the fire with the utmost courage and valor. With the tenth anniversary of the Storm King Fire approaching, I believe it appropriate to recognize the sacrifice Terri and the Storm King Firefighters made on behalf of a grateful community, state and nation. Terri was an undergraduate student at Oregon State University working towards a Bachelor of Science degree in Entomology and a Bachelor of Arts in History. Their Department of Entomology now has a Terri Hagen Memorial Library and Scholarship. She was a member of the Onondaga tribe of the Iroquois Nation, and had answered her nation's call to duty, serving in the Army as a medic, and had completed airborne training with the National Guard. An avid outdoorswoman, Terri enjoyed horse training, mountain biking, hiking, hunting, basketball, teaching, swimming, and was a rodeo team roper. Her love of the outdoors and adventurous spirit took her to joining the Prineville Hotshots, an elite group of firefighters who specialize in wildland fire suppression. She was a dedicated member of her crew, and received a great deal of satisfaction from helping others. Above all, she was devoted to her family and friends. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to rise before this body of Congress and this nation to pay tribute to the life and memory of Firefighter Terri Hagen. Terri personified the Hotshots credo of Safety, Teamwork and Professionalism; putting herself in harms way for unfamiliar people and places. She made the ultimate sacrifice doing what she loved, and I, along with the Glenwood Springs community and the State of Colorado are eternally grateful to this brave young woman.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the life and legacy of Don Mackey. Don bravely battled the Storm King Mountain Fire outside the town of Glenwood Springs, Colorado in 1994, but succumbed to the blaze along with thirteen fellow firefighters while working to protect the City. I personally served as a firefighter and understand the risks they face each and everyday. Witnessing the awful inferno that fateful July day, I know Don and his comrades battled the fire with the utmost courage and valor. With the tenth anniversary of the Storm King Fire approaching, I believe it appropriate to recognize the sacrifice Don and the Storm King Firefighters made on behalf of a grateful community, state and nation. Don grew up in Hamilton, Montana where he attended Hamilton High School. He became a firefighter in 1984 working in the Bitterroot National Forest. He later became a hotshot in 1985 and 1986, an elite group of firefighters who specialize in wildland fire suppression. In 1987 he became a Missoula smokejumper, where he, along with fellow smokejumpers would parachute into rough, mountainous terrain to fight wildfires in areas of forests inaccessible by any other means. He was a dedicated member of his crew, and received a great deal of satisfaction from helping others. Above all, he was devoted to his family and friends. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to rise before this body of Congress and this Nation to pay tribute to the life and memory of Firefighter Don Mackey. Don was committed to providing high quality professional fire management services to protect our natural resources, putting himself in harms way for unfamiliar people and places. He made the ultimate sacrifice doing what he loved, and I, along with the Glenwood Springs community and the State of Colorado are eternally grateful to this brave man.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the life and legacy of Douglas Dunbar of McKenzie Bridge, Oregon. Doug bravely battled the Storm King Mountain Fire outside the town of Glenwood Springs, Colorado in 1994, but succumbed to the blaze along with thirteen fellow firefighters while working to protect the City. I personally served as a firefighter and understand the risks they face each and everyday. Witnessing the awful inferno that fateful July day I know Doug and his comrades battled the fire with the utmost courage and valor. With the tenth anniversary of the Storm King Fire approaching, I believe it appropriate to recognize the sacrifice Doug and the Storm King Firefighters made on behalf of a grateful community, state, and nation. Born and raised in Mckenzie Bridge, Oregon, Doug attended McKenzie High School where he was an honor student, all star baseball player, and award-winning saxophonist. He was attending Southern Oregon State College where he was completing his business degree. In 1990 he began working for the Forest Service to help pay for his education. Doug immensely enjoyed the job and the people he worked with on the Prineville Hotshot Crew, an elite group of firefighters who specialize in wildland fire suppression. Doug had a true love for the outdoors, and was an accomplished skier who was pursuing a career in the ski industry. Above all, he was devoted to his family and friends. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to rise before this body of Congress and this Nation to pay tribute to the life and memory of Firefighter Douglas Dunbar. Doug personified the Hotshots credo of Safety, Teamwork, and Professionalism; putting himself in harm's way for unfamiliar people and places. He made the ultimate sacrifice doing what he loved, and I, along with the Glenwood Springs community and the State of Colorado are eternally grateful to this brave, young man.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the life and legacy of Jon Kelso of Prineville, Oregon. Jon bravely battled the Storm King Mountain Fire outside the town of Glenwood Springs, Colorado in 1994, but succumbed to the blaze along with thirteen fellow firefighters while working to protect the City. I personally served as a firefighter and understand the risks they face each and everyday. Witnessing the awful inferno that fateful July day, I know Jon and his comrades battled the fire with the utmost courage and valor. With the tenth anniversary of the Storm King Fire approaching, I believe it appropriate to recognize the sacrifice Jon and the Storm King Firefighters made on behalf of a grateful community, state and nation. Born and raised in Prineville, Jon attended Crook County High School where he was very active in athletics as a member on the golf team, the manager of the football team, a swimming teacher, and a lifeguard. He received a degree in wildlife sciences from Oregon State University, and had completed his first year of studies to become a civil engineer. In 1985, he joined the Prineville Hotshots, an elite group of firefighters who specialize in wildland fire suppression. He was a smoke jumper and a squad boss for the sawyers, a skilled crew that cuts down trees to prevent the spread of fires. Recognizing Jon's excellent academic record and leadership of his hotshot crew, the Bureau of Land Management Wildland Firefighter Academy named a Memorial Award after Jon that goes to the most outstanding firefighter of the class. He was a dedicated member of his crew, and received a great deal of satisfaction from helping others. Above all, he was devoted to his family and friends. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to rise before this body of Congress and this nation to pay tribute to the life and memory of Firefighter Jon Kelso. Jon personified the Hotshots credo of Safety, Teamwork, and Professionalism; putting himself in harms way for unfamiliar people and places. He made the ultimate sacrifice doing what he loved, and I, along with the Glenwood Springs community and the State of Colorado are eternally grateful to this brave young man.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Pastor Andrew Gebbie, a man who has made a great impact on the city of Grand Junction, Colorado. As a minister, Andrew has served both the members of his church and his community, and has become one of Grand Junction's truly cherished citizens. It is my privilege to recognize the work of this exceptional man. Andrew was born in a small village on the outskirts of Hamilton in central Scotland. At eighteen, he was fascinated by aeronautics and went to Queen Mary's College in London, but after a year felt called to the ministry and transferred to a local seminary. After spending a few years living in Belfast, Northern Ireland, a friend in Canada told him of a pastoral position that had become available in Grand Junction. After being granted legal immigration status in a very short period, Andrew and his family moved to America. He began working as pastor of the Orchard Mesa Christian Church, which he and his wife Doris pastor together. Andrew also works as the billing administrator and patient records supervisor for Hospice and Palliative Care of Western Colorado. In his spare time, Andrew enjoys teaching students in the community how to rope climb at Camp Cedaredge located on the Grand Mesa. Mr. Speaker, Andrew Gebbie has used his Christian Faith to serve his Grand Junction community, and has touched many lives. I say to his wife Doris and the rest of his family that they should be proud of Andrew both for his obedience in following his faith, and for all the hours he has given back to his community. I am honored to share with this body of Congress and this nation the works of Pastor Andrew Gebbie. Thank you for your service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise with great joy to pay tribute to Dr. Mary Vader of Montrose, Colorado. ``Dr. Mary,'' as many of her patients call her, dedicates her work and service to the health and well being of others. In recognition of her service, Dr. Mary was recently awarded the Harold E. Williamson award, and I think it is appropriate to recognize her accomplishments before this body of Congress and this nation today. Dr. Mary is a native of Western Colorado, leaving only for a short period during her professional training. In the early 1990s, she took a position as a partner with Pediatric Associates, a pediatric clinic in Montrose. In addition to her dedication to her practice, she has done much to share her knowledge and to give back to the Montrose community. She played a major role in establishing ``Dream Catchers'' in Western Colorado, an organization that provides therapy for disabled children using the assistance of horses. Additionally, Dr. Mary helped start and continues to volunteer for the Montrose Medical Mission, a non-profit medical clinic providing free care to uninsured patients. Dr. Mary also acts as a consulting physician for the Child Abuse Response Team of the 7th Judicial District and helps with the training for Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners. The COPIC Medical Foundation recently honored Dr. Mary with its 2003 Harold E. Williamson Award, and made a generous donation to the Montrose Medical Clinic in her name. Mr. Speaker, I would like to commend Dr. Mary Vader for her tireless efforts to better her Montrose Community. Her efforts have tremendously contributed to the health and wellness of her community. I wish to thank her for her service and wish her the best in her future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart after learning that Colorado has lost one of its truly great citizens. Catherine ``Cay'' Hopkins of Pueblo, Colorado recently passed away at age seventy-nine. Cay spent her life serving those she loved, and as her community and family mourn her passing, I believe it appropriate to recognize her life before this body of Congress and this nation. Cay was born in Denver on February 10, 1925. She graduated from East High School, and later received her bachelor's degree from the University of Denver. She moved to Pueblo when she married Dr. William Hopkins, a local ophthalmologist, on December 17, 1946. Cay began her life of community service upon moving to Pueblo. She was the former president of the Pueblo YMCA and the former treasurer of the Sangre de Cristo Arts and Conference Center. She also served as a board member of the YWCA, and was chairman of the Mozart festival. Just a year ago, Cay was among the nominees for the YWCA's Woman of the Year Award. Over the decades Cay also served on the Southern Colorado Bicentennial Commission, was treasurer of the Colorado State Hospital Auxiliary, was president of the Thatcher School Parent Teacher Association and served on the Rosemont Museum board as a volunteer coordinator. When she was not serving her community, she and her husband William were flying to Central America assisting as medical missionaries. Mr. Speaker, Cay Hopkins will be sorely missed, and although we grieve over the loss of this incredible individual, we take comfort in the lives she touched and the legacy she leaves behind. My thoughts go out to her husband William, daughters Gayle and Sharon, son Greg, and the rest of her family during this difficult time of bereavement. I am truly honored to pay tribute to her life and memory today.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the accomplishments of Richard Baca of Grand Junction, Colorado. Richard has done much to improve higher education in the State of Colorado. After thirty-two years at Mesa State College, he is retiring as the college's assistant vice president of student affairs and enrollment management. As Richard celebrates his retirement, let it be known the Mesa State College community and I are eternally grateful for all that he has accomplished during his tenure with the college. After receiving a doctorate from the University of Northern Colorado, Richard started as a counselor and staff assistant at Mesa State. From there he worked his way through the ranks to his current position as vice president of student affairs and enrollment management. Along the way he held positions as director of counseling, director of student life, director of academic records and dean of student services. As the college grew, Richard's noted contributions include his efforts to encourage diversity. Specifically, Richard helped the college establish the Cultural Diversity Board and an event to celebrate diversity, ``Unity Fest.'' Mr. Speaker, I wish to commend the efforts of Richard Baca and his contributions to Grand Junction, the State of Colorado and higher education. His commitment to diversity was also a commitment to Colorado's future. I would like to thank Richard and wish him the best of success in his future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to rise to honor Stanley ``Stan'' Cundiff for his dedication to Colorado as the City of Durango's Parks and Recreation maintenance supervisor. His forty-seven years of service are a testament to his tireless efforts to better his community. As he celebrates his retirement, let it be known that he leaves behind a terrific legacy to the people of Durango and the State of Colorado. Born and raised in Bayfield, Colorado, Stan began working for the Public Works Department in 1957. In 1963, he moved to the Parks and Recreation Department where he led the maintenance work until his recent retirement. The city regards Stan as the ``Grandfather'' of the Durango parks system. His leadership made it possible for Durango to build many of the city's current parks. To honor Stan upon his retirement, the city recently dedicated a park, ``Stan Cundiff Park''. Mr. Speaker, I am privileged to recognize Stanley Cundiff for his efforts throughout his career. His dedication and hard work for the Department of Parks and Recreation throughout the years is certainly commendable and worthy of recognition before this body of Congress and this nation. The dedication of a park in his honor shows a community proud of his work. I wish to thank Stan for his work and wish him the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Betty Clifton of Fowler, Colorado, on being named the 2004 Etu Tau Lady of the Year. The award acknowledges her contributions towards the Fowler community, and to the many other communities that she has been a part of through the years. This award is a well-deserved testament to her tireless efforts. Betty's ardent devotion to her community was evident at a young age, as she was a member of the Rainbow Girls and served as president of the Methodist Youth Fellowship during her senior year in high school. This commitment continued to follow Betty as an adult as she became involved in other civic organizations. She is a charter member of Fountain Valley #155 of the Order of the Eastern Star Foundation, a member of the Fowler Historical Society, and a member of the American Legion Auxiliary. She also volunteers with Meals on Wheels, served for five years as president of the United Methodist Women, and served for two years as president of the Fowler Senior Citizens. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to the public service of Betty Clifton before this body of Congress, and this nation. Her contributions towards her community are truly remarkable. I sincerely thank Betty for her service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart after learning that a great citizen and a dear friend of mine, Edger John Niemann, passed away at the age of eighty-three. He was a resident of Glenwood Springs, Colorado, and as his community and family mourn his passing, I believe it appropriate to recognize the life of Edger John Niemann before this body of Congress and this nation. Edger was born on May 28, 1920 in Cook, Nebraska to Louis and Ella Niemann. He graduated from Cook High School and then went off to earn a Bachelors of Science degree in mathematics from Doane College in Crete, Nebraska. He joined the Navy in 1943 and earned his wings in Florida. At the conclusion of the war, Edger decided to pursue his passion and become a florist. Shortly after, he married Naomi Fenske in 1947, and they moved to Glenwood Springs in 1952. Once there he and his wife purchased a floral business, eventually naming it Niemann's Gardens. Together they ran their business for forty years developing a love for flowers, but more importantly a love for their community. For fifty-two years, Edger served on numerous boards and committees striving to make his community a better place. Edger served his local school district and was a member of the Re-1 school board for fourteen years. He also served his local church, the Glenwood Church of Christ, as an elder. He was a member of the Kiwanis Club, the West Glenwood Sewer Board, and the Oasis Creek Water Board. On a personal note, Edger was a good friend of mine and he was one of the most caring, loving and hard-working people I have ever known. Mr. Speaker, Edger Niemann will be sorely missed, and although we grieve over the loss of this incredible individual, we take comfort in the lives he has touched and the legacy he leaves behind. My thoughts go out to his wife Naomi, son Scott, daughter Holly and the rest of his family during this difficult time of bereavement. I am honored to pay tribute to his life and memory today.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Dr. Daniel McClure of Bayfield, Colorado, on being awarded the 2004 Lloyd Gaskill Award. The award was named after the legendary football coach at Limon High School, and is annually given to an individual who volunteers to support Colorado high school athletics in other ways than coaching. This is the second year in a row that a resident of Bayfield, Colorado has been a recipient of the award, and is a well-deserved testament to Daniel's work with the youth in his community. For over twenty years Daniel has selflessly dedicated his efforts to Colorado student athletes, helping them to compete and reach their highest potential. Once a week, Daniel visits both Bayfield and Ignacio High Schools to evaluate and treat student athletes at no cost to the schools or district. In addition to treating the student athletes, Daniel also attends each of the schools home and away games. Dr. McClure has also contributed his time and skill beyond the high school level. He has had the opportunity to work with athletes at the United States Training Center, and at Olympic trial events, the Outdoor National Championships, the World Diving Championships and the FINA Cup International. He has also served as the sports chiropractor for the United States Olympic diving team in Barcelona, Spain in 1992, and again in Atlanta, Georgia in 1996. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to the service and achievements of Dr. Daniel McClure before this body of Congress and this nation. His dedication to high school student athletes in his community and athletes representing our great country at the highest level is truly commendable. I sincerely thank Daniel for his service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Charlotte Bobicki and thank her for her dedication to Colorado as an Alamosa County Commissioner. Her dedication and tireless efforts have done much to ensure a promising future for her constituents. As Charlotte moves on in her career, let it be known that she leaves behind a terrific legacy of commitment to the people of Alamosa County and the State of Colorado. An Alamosa native, Charlotte worked for thrity-six years in the Alamosa Public School System as both a teacher and an administrator before being elected a county commissioner in 1996. During her tenure as a commissioner, Charlotte has been very active in health and human welfare issues. She serves on the Colorado State Board of Health, regional Workforce Committee, and Colorado Counties Incorporated. She also is a founding member of Action 22 in southern Colorado and serves as the San Luis Valley representative to the executive board of Action 22. Last year, Charlotte served as Chairman of the Board of Alamosa County Commissioners, working to enhance relations between the county and other local and state agencies. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to Commissioner Charlotte Bobicki before this body of Congress and this nation, and to congratulate her on an outstanding career of public service. Her selfless dedication to her community and the people of Colorado as an Alamosa County Commissioner is truly remarkable. I wish her all the best in her future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Kelly Wilson and thank him for his exceptional contributions to his community and the State of Colorado as a Montezuma County Commissioner. A two-term commissioner, he will always be remembered as a dedicated public servant and leader of his community. As Kelly celebrates his retirement, let it be known that he leaves behind a terrific legacy of commitment and service to the people of Montezuma County and the State of Colorado. Kelly comes from a family with a rich history of political activism. His grandfather served as a county treasurer for fourteen years, his uncle as a county assessor, his father as a party chairman, and his sister was State Senator Jim Isgar's campaign manager and a former employee of Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell. During his time as a commissioner Kelly has been very involved with the Canyon of the Ancients National Monument and helped to develop the comprehensive land code for the county. He also helped make the unpopular yet important decision to move the county fair in order to fight the Mesa Verde fire of 2000. Kelly plans to stay active in his community after his term, as well as working on the sixty-five acre farm he shares with his sister. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to Commissioner Kelly Wilson before this body of Congress and this nation, and to congratulate him on an outstanding career of public service. His selfless dedication to his community and the people of Colorado as a Montezuma County Commissioner is truly remarkable. I wish him and his wife Diane all the best in their future endeavors. Thanks for your service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Dennis Brinker and thank him for his exceptional contributions to his community and the State of Colorado as a Jackson County Commissioner. A four-term commissioner, Dennis will always be remembered as a dedicated public servant and leader of his community. As Dennis celebrates his retirement, let it be known that he leaves behind a terrific legacy of commitment to the people of Jackson County and the State of Colorado. A lifelong resident of North Park, Dennis has lived and worked on a ranch near Coalmont that was homesteaded by his father in 1914. Graduating from Jackson County High School in 1961, he answered his country's call to duty, serving in the U.S. Army from 1962 to 1965. In 1988, he was elected to the Board of Commissioners of Jackson County where he has dedicated his efforts to serving the people of Jackson County. Some of the committees and boards Dennis serves on include the Western Interstate Region Board of Directors, National Association of County Officials Public Lands Committee. He was chairman of the Colorado Counties Incorporated Public Lands Committee, and is a member of the Western Interstate Region Strategic Plan for National Association of County Officials Steering Committee. He is also a member of the North Park Stockgrowers Association, Colorado Cattlemen Association, and Jackson County Lions Club. Mr. Speaker, it is clear that County Commissioner Dennis Brinker has ceaselessly dedicated his time and efforts to serving his county and the people of Colorado as a County Commissioner for Jackson County. I am honored to bring his hard work and commitment to the attention of this body of Congress and this nation today. Thank you for all your service Dennis and I wish you and your wife Mary Lea all the best in your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise with a heavy heart to pay tribute to the life and memory of Fred ``Fritz'' Lundin of Glenwood Springs, Colorado. I personally knew Fritz well, and he was a man of the highest integrity and ethics and a natural leader in the community. As his family mourns his passing, I believe it appropriate to recognize the life of this exceptional man. Born and raised in Brady, Nebraska, Fritz first moved to Colorado when he attended the University of Denver to study accounting on an ROTC scholarship. As a fighter pilot, Fritz honorably served our country in both Korea and Vietnam. For his service in Vietnam, he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. Following his military service he received his MBA from the University of Colorado. In 1950, Fritz married Bette Coad with whom he had four children. Fritz retired from the Air Force in 1973 and moved to Glenwood Springs. During the years Fritz spent in Glenwood Springs, he became active in the community as a supporter of high school athletics. An avid sports enthusiast, he enjoyed watching his children and grandchildren participate in athletics, and he enjoyed outdoor activities with his family. In 1980, Fritz remarried Cindy Dollins with whom he shared a successful accounting practice and with whom he had a son. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Fred ``Fritz'' Lundin and pay tribute to his life as a valuable citizen of Glenwood Springs. Fritz held both himself and others to the highest standards. His competitiveness was contagious, making people around him better. I wish to express my deepest sympathies to his family and friends during this difficult time of bereavement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Kent Lindsay and thank him for his dedication to Colorado as a two-term Montezuma County Commissioner. His dedication and tireless efforts have done much to ensure a promising future for his constituents. As Kent celebrates his retirement, let it be known that he leaves behind a terrific legacy of commitment to the people of Montezuma County and the State of Colorado. A lifelong resident of Montezuma County, Kent is the third generation owner of El Grande Cafe in Cortez. He is very active in the community, serving for fifteen years on the local fire department and is currently the Fire Chief. As a county commissioner, Kent was instrumental in rewriting the Land Use Plan and in creating the Stewardship Committee involving rangeland and grazing. He also worked closely in the development of the Dolores River Valley Plan, and plans to stay involved in the issues affecting Montezuma County. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to Commissioner Kent Lindsay before this body of Congress and this nation, and to congratulate him on an outstanding career of public service. His selfless dedication to his community and the people of Colorado as a Montezuma County Commissioner is truly remarkable. I wish him all the best in his future endeavors. Thanks for your service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Steve Wardell and thank him for his dedication to Colorado as a Mineral County Commissioner. His tireless efforts have done much to ensure a promising future for his constituents. As Steve celebrates his retirement, let it be known that he leaves behind a terrific legacy of commitment to the people of Mineral County and the State of Colorado. During his tenure as commissioner, Steve worked on a number of issues for his Mineral County community. He was instrumental in putting together maps and a tabulation for the public rights of way in Mineral County. He also was involved in the approval of the preliminary plat of the Village at Wolf Creek, began the process for building a new Health Clinic in Mineral County, and pursued donations and grants to help repave the local airport runway. As a dedicated member of the community, Steve volunteers his time to numerous civic organizations. He does the maintenance work on the county's ambulances, saving the Ambulance Board money to use on needed upgrades and equipment. He also is a volunteer fireman, and is always willing to help wherever he is needed. Mr. Speaker, it is clear that County Commissioner Steve Wardell has ceaselessly dedicated his time and efforts to serving his county and the people of Colorado as a County Commissioner for Mineral County. I am honored to bring his hard work and achievements to the attention of this body of Congress and this nation today. Thank you for all your service Steve, and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise with considerable sadness to pay tribute to the life and memory of Bob George of Aspen, Colorado. Bob recently passed away at the age of sixty-one. With the loss of Bob, Aspen loses a friend of the community. As his family mourns his passing, I believe it is appropriate to recognize the life of this exceptional man before this body of Congress and this nation today. Bob first moved to Aspen in 1964, after attending the University of Colorado at Boulder. Soon after, he married Karin Knudson, with whom he went on to have three children. In 1967, he found work with Mason & Morse, a real estate firm, and with a good college friend, they worked hard and eventually assumed control of the company. The two partners and friends put much time and effort in transforming Mason & Morse Real Estate into the largest firm in the Aspen Valley. As a spirited business leader, Bob achieved great success. He was the president of two professional organizations, the Aspen Board of Realtors and the Aspen Chamber Resort Association. His dedication to the community included memberships in the Aspen Elks Club, Mountain Rescue and Rotary Club. He was also president of the Aspen School Board and spent time volunteering for the Sunshine Kids and Ducks Unlimited. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to rise before this body of Congress and this nation to pay tribute to the life and memory of Bob George. He was a natural business leader and a valuable member of his community. More importantly, Bob will always be remembered as a consummate family man. I wish to extend my deepest regrets and sympathy to Bob's family and friends during this difficult time of bereavement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Doralyn Genova and thank her for her dedication to Colorado as a Mesa County Commissioner. Her dedication and tireless efforts have done much to ensure a promising future for her constituents. As Doralyn celebrates her retirement, let it be known that she leaves behind a terrific legacy of commitment to the people of Mesa County and the State of Colorado. A third generation Mesa County native, Doralyn graduated from Mesa State College, and ran her own business, Data Supplies. When Doralyn was elected to serve as Mesa County Commissioner in 1988, she was only the second woman elected to the position of county commissioner in Mesa County's history. She serves on Club 20's board of directors, the Governor's Interregional Council on Smart Growth, the Colorado Emergency Planning Commission, Headstart Grand Valley Regional Transportation Committee, and the Mesa County Economic Development Council for Sustainable Agriculture. She also served as president of 16 Western District Counties, and was chairperson for the Land Use Committee for Colorado Counties Incorporated and serves currently as the Secretary. Doralyn's community involvement also includes membership in the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce, Mesa County Women's Network, Mesa County Historical Society, Mesa County Cattleman's Association, and Mesa County League of Women Voters. Doralyn's dedication to her community has garnered her numerous awards and recognition over the years. She was ``Westpeoples'' Woman of the Year in 1986 and was the first recipient of Club 20's Dan Noble Award. She has also received awards from the Colorado Division Disaster Emergency Services, Glade Park Volunteer Fire Department, Governor's Conference on Library and Information Services, and Mesa County Friends of 4-H. Most importantly, Doralyn is dedicated to her husband Mike, and sons Anthony, Nicholas, and Dominic. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to Commissioner Doralyn Genova before this body of Congress and this nation, and to congratulate her on an outstanding career of public service. Her selfless dedication to her community and the people of Colorado as a Mesa County Commissioner is truly remarkable. I wish her all the best in her future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to rise today and pay tribute to Mac Myers and thank him for his outstanding commitment to serving the people of Colorado as District Attorney for the 9th Judicial District. His years of service have done much to enhance the safety of the community and the prestige of the District Attorney's Office. As Mac celebrates his retirement, let it be known that he leaves behind a wonderful and strong legacy of dedication to the District Attorney's Office and the citizens of Colorado. Mac graduated from the University of Colorado with a bachelor's degree in English, and received his law degree from the University of Denver. He worked as a deputy district attorney in Colorado Springs and Breckenridge before being hired to serve the people of Pitkin, Garfield, and Rio Blanco counties as a deputy district attorney in the 9th Judicial District in 1986. In 1996, Mac was elected district attorney for the 9th Judicial District, and was subsequently re-elected in 2000. During his tenure as district attorney, he has worked to enhance the communication and relationship between his office and the local police departments. He has also raised awareness and increased prosecutions for sexual assault and domestic violence cases, as well as promoting drug abuse prevention programs. Mr. Speaker, it is clear that District Attorney Frank Daniels has ceaselessly dedicated his time and efforts to serving his district and the people of Colorado as the District Attorney for the 9th Judicial District. I am honored to bring his hard work and achievements to the attention of this body of Congress and this nation today. Thank you for all your service Mac, and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to rise today to pay tribute to Richard ``Rick'' Wyatt and thank him for his outstanding commitment to serving the people of Colorado as a Jackson County Commissioner. As he celebrates his retirement, let it be known that he leaves behind a wonderful and strong legacy of dedication to the citizens of Jackson County and the State of Colorado. Born in Wyoming, Rick has spent most of his life as a resident of Jackson County. He graduated from North Park High School and attended college for two years before answering his nation's call to duty by joining the Marines and serving in Vietnam. When Richard's tour was over, he returned to Jackson County, working in construction until he started a business with his brother that he still operates today. In 1986, Rick was elected the Mayor of Walden, Colorado, and served in that position until 1990. As a commissioner, Rick has worked hard for responsible and sustainable use of the natural resources in the county. Mr. Speaker, it is clear that County Commissioner Rick Wyatt has ceaselessly dedicated his time and efforts to serving his county and the people of Colorado as a County Commissioner for Jackson County. I am honored to bring his hard work and commitment to the attention of this body of Congress and this nation today. Thank you for all your service Rick, and I wish you and your wife Sarah all the best in your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, today I stand to pay tribute to Courtney Hutton for her poem voicing the resolve of the American people in support of our troops and our country. Courtney is a student at Riverside Middle School in New Castle, Colorado. I wish to share this poem with you: Dear Soldier Do you sing the Star Spangled Banner before you head out to war? Are the Star Spangled Banner's words held close to your heart as you serve our country and it's beliefs? Your eyes have witnessed so much devastation because of your dedication to America. But yet citizens continue to take for granted our lives. Dear Soldier you have so much integrity so much honor. Thank you dear soldier. Can you see as you gaze into the horizon at dawn a bright and hopeful flag waving diligently in the breeze? Frances Scott Key could, on a morning during the war of 1812 he jotted down a poem as he remembered the Star Spangled Banner that had waved there just the night before. It was transformed though, into the flag that Americans would honor and love for years to come. He asked himself through the next few verses, whose stars and stripes could last through so many rockets and bombs that flew from the forts below? Only the flag of America could stand true through so much hardship. The red glare of the bombs gave him proof that the American flag stood. It waved valiantly over the land of the free and the home of the brave. I remember 9/11/01 the first time this song ever meant anything to me. Though I'm sure has always meant so much to you Dear Soldier. It, I'm sure, inspired your love for the service and your country; our country's national anthem, a symbol of America, the majestic Star Spangled Banner. It stands for our lives, Dear Soldier. Your memories are filled with guns, flags, blood, fights between great people and enemies, and acts of integrity. That is how your life is the Star Spangled Banner in action. Americans alike turned to the words of the Star Spangled Banner for hope and wisdom during 9/11, and because of its special place in the hearts of citizens around the country we will continue to act with the same love and honor as you Dear Soldier. Although the rise and fall of people and their beliefs will always be constant in the US, the meaningfulness of our dear anthem will never change. I once read, ``To follow the path of an American, is to honor the words of the Star Spangled Banner,'' and I believe that to be true because you have shown me how Dear Soldier. You honor the Star Spangled Banner with your devotion, patience and love to the USA and your job. In doing this you, Dear Soldier, you see destruction beyond the thinkable. You have followed the American path and have been strong. Yet I am concerned, during the days of 9/11 America was brought together, but now everything is back to normal, we fight and compete. Citizens forget or even ignore the words of the Star Spangled Banner and take our lives for granted. They forget the many treacherous battles both won and lost in Iraq, Korea, and Afghanistan. I have hope though that the few good acts of kindness and compassion will expand to millions over the years and the Star Spangled Banner will be kept in mind when making choices. So my heart, my soul, my feelings, about the Star Spangled Banner, and its definitions, to me and to America have been poured out to you dear soldier, my gratitude for your service and devotion. Your life is the Star Spangled Banner in action. Strong feelings arise in my heart when those verses are sung. Thank you Dear Soldier for the service and love you so freely give America, the world, and me. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to share Courtney's poem with you. Her support is indicative of the strength of our proud nation, and I want to thank her for voicing this support.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to John Klomp and thank him for his dedication to Colorado as a two-term Pueblo County Commissioner. His dedication and tireless efforts have done much to ensure a promising future for his constituents. As John celebrates his retirement, let it be known that he leaves behind a terrific legacy of commitment to the people of Pueblo County and the State of Colorado. Before being elected county commissioner, John worked for thirty-four years in education, retiring in 1994 as Associate Superintendent of Pueblo School District 70. During his tenure as commissioner, John has worked hard on a vast array of issues, including welfare reform, county growth, educational and recreational programs for the county's youth, and law enforcement programs. A dedicated member of the community, John is also involved in several local organizations. He currently serves as the Chair for the Citizens' Advisory Commission for the Pueblo Chemical Dept for the Pueblo Area Council of Governments and for the Front-Range County Commissioners. He is also a board member of the Pueblo Chamber of Commerce, Pueblo Latino Chamber of Commerce, and Junior Achievement. In addition to his community involvement and work as commissioner, John is the Outdoor Editor for the Pueblo Chieftain Newspaper for which he writes a bi-monthly article. Mr. Speaker, it is clear that County Commissioner John Klomp has ceaselessly dedicated his time and efforts to serving his county and the people of Colorado as a County Commissioner for Pueblo County. I am honored to bring his hard work and commitment to the attention of this body of Congress and this nation today. Thank you for all your service John and I wish you and your wife Pat all the best in your future endeavors.