Brittany Pettersen

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Kyrii Petralia for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Kyrii has overcome many challenges along her journey to success, demonstrating perseverance at every step. Students who strive to make the most of their education, like Kyrii, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Kyrii's hard work, determination, and perseverance at The Manning School of Academics and Arts and is clearly just the beginning of a bright and promising future. It is my honor to congratulate Kyrii Petralia on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Grey Valdez for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Grey has overcome many challenges along their journey to success, demonstrating perseverance at every step. Students who strive to make the most of their education, like Grey, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Grey's hard work, determination, and perseverance at Jefferson Jr./Sr. High School and is clearly just the beginning of a bright and promising future. It is my honor to congratulate Grey Valdez on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Gabriel Tzintzun for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Gabriel has overcome many challenges along his journey to success, demonstrating perseverance at every step. Students who strive to make the most of their education, like Gabriel, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Gabriel's hard work, determination, and perseverance at Jefferson Jr./Sr. High School and is clearly just the beginning of a bright and promising future. It is my honor to congratulate Gabriel Tzintzun on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Vincent Taylor for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Vincent has overcome many challenges along his journey to success, demonstrating perseverance at every step. Students who strive to make the most of their education, like Vincent, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Vincent's hard work, determination, and perseverance at Mandalay Middle School and is clearly just the beginning of a bright and promising future. It is my honor to congratulate Vincent Taylor on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Connor Delo for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Connor has overcome many challenges along his journey to success, demonstrating perseverance at every step. Students who strive to make the most of their education, like Connor, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Connor's hard work, determination, and perseverance at Mandalay Middle School and is clearly just the beginning of a bright and promising future. It is my honor to congratulate Connor Delo on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Saul Zapata for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Saul has overcome many challenges along his journey to success, demonstrating perseverance at every step. Students who strive to make the most of their education, like Saul, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Saul's hard work, determination, and perseverance at Jefferson Jr./Sr. High School and is clearly just the beginning of a bright and promising future. It is my honor to congratulate Saul Zapata on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and applaud Terenn Tracy of Arvada, Colorado, for winning the Arvada Chamber of Commerce's Rising Star Award. The Rising Star Award recognizes High School students who have exemplified extraordinary skills in entrepreneurship, innovation, community impact, and leadership. Terenn's teachers and peers alike have recognized her as kind, honest, committed, aware, respectful, and empathetic. She has served the Arvada community through an internship with Outdoor Lab, offering to adapt the curriculum around Native Americans at Windy Peak, and through numerous clubs and organizations. Her commitment to the environment and public service demonstrate her bright future as an advocate for Colorado. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Terenn Tracy for winning the Arvada Chamber's Rising Star Award and thank her for her contributions to our community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Karen Miller for earning this year's Woman of the Year Award from the Arvada Chamber of Commerce. Karen is a longtime volunteer throughout Jefferson County, especially in Olde Town Arvada. She served on the Historic Olde Town Arvada (HOTA) Board for many years and was instrumental in the creation of the Business Improvement District for Olde Town in 2014. Karen is a passionate and dedicated leader and a tremendous asset to the Arvada community. She dedicated countless hours to local events including the Harvest Festival, St. Patrick's Day, Festival of Scarecrows, A Chocolate Affair, and Flicks in the Square. Karen currently sits on the Arvada Historical Society Board and manages the Arvada Flour Mill. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Karen Miller on receiving the 2023 Arvada Chamber of Commerce Woman of the Year Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Humble House Cafe from Golden, Colorado for being honored as part of the Golden Rotary Ethics in Business Awards. Known for its positive atmosphere and work environment, Humble House has designed a business model which includes both community involvement and charity work. Humble House is involved with a variety of causes. They offer free coffee Tuesdays for teachers, first-responders, and non-profit workers, sell retail on behalf of passionate artisans in the local community and creators in developing countries, and allow customers to choose which of several nonprofits the charity proceeds from their purchase will go. Humble House has taken great care to create a business model that caters to the needs of the environment, encourages local community growth and engagement, and supports those in need around the world. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to thank the wonderful people of Humble House for their active involvement in our community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Keith Sorci for earning the Man of the Year Award from the Arvada Chamber of Commerce. Keith has been serving his community for over 20 years in many capacities, including as president of the Arvada Gardeners, volunteering with the Arvada Historical Society and with local schools, and distributing food to those in need. Keith also works with Jefferson County Justice Services which offers alternatives to incarceration for Coloradans, training others to be equally helpful in their work for the community. His continued dedication to the Arvada Community showcases his spirit of service and this award acknowledges his hard work. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Keith on achieving the 2023 Arvada Chamber of Commerce Man of the Year Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mark McGoff of Arvada, Colorado for winning the Pioneer Award from the Arvada Chamber of Commerce. Mark has proudly served his community in Arvada for years as a member of the City Council, the Arvada Fire Board, and a volunteer for the Historical Society, Arvada Jefferson Kiwanis, and the Arvada Center. He is an Emeritus Board Member of the Ralston House and is currently working to plan Arvada's anniversary celebration this year. The Pioneer Award is granted when a previous winner of the Man or Woman of the Year Award continues to perform notable work for the people of Arvada. Mark has done exactly that with his continual contributions to the community and longstanding dedication to public service. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Mark McGoff for winning the Pioneer Award. We thank him for his commitment to our community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Normalee Lee of Arvada, Colorado for winning the Arvada Chamber of Commerce's Image Award. Normalee has spent years working to make Jefferson County a better and safer place to live. She has volunteered in all divisions of the Citizen's Police Academy Alumni Association and is a former Chairperson and longstanding volunteer for the Arvada Police Department. Additionally, she helped make the annual Bike Rodeo event run with Apex Parks and Recreation District a success. Arvada Chamber Image Award winners are selected for the positive image of Arvada they portray within the community, and Normalee has done just that. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional district, it is my honor to congratulate Normalee Lee on winning this award and thank her for her service to our community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Heather Fiedler of Arvada, Colorado, for winning the Image Award from the Arvada Chamber of Commerce. The Arvada Chamber issues the Image Award to exceptional individuals who have a demonstrated commitment to the Arvada community and its public image. For over 10 years, Heather has been an active member of the Arvada Community Garden, leading their efforts to provide fresh food, community, and gardening education to all Arvadans. She also plays a primary role in the Garrison Garden Paseo project and teaches over fifteen gardening classes every year to over four hundred attendees. Heather's hard work and dedication to the Arvada gardening community has fed and enriched the lives of hundreds of citizens and visitors alike. This award is a true testament to the leadership Heather has displayed as a gardener and leader in Arvada. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Heather Fiedler for winning the Image Award and thank her for her contributions to our community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Stephanie Paul for earning this year's Young Professional Leadership Award from the Arvada Chamber of Commerce. For years, Stephanie has shown a commitment to improving Olde Town Arvada. As the Director of Marketing and Events for the Arvada Business Improvement District, she has helped transform Olde Town into a vibrant area that residents and visitors alike can enjoy. Stephanie was an instrumental part of bolstering the Olde Town Second Saturday summer concert series, doubling attendance since the beginning of her tenure. She actively engages with local business leaders and community members to ensure projects have input from everyone involved. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Stephanie Paul on receiving the 2023 Arvada Chamber of Commerce's Young Professional Leadership Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ashley Palacios with Hope House Colorado for winning the Arvada Chamber of Commerce's Young Professional Leadership Award. The Young Professional Leadership Award recognizes an Arvada young professional whose leadership and dedication has impacted the world around them. Ashley is the Director of Operations at Hope House Colorado, an Arvada-based resource center and housing provider for teen mothers and their children. She is currently working to help open their Early Learning Center to give more opportunities to kids in the community. Relentless and compassionate, Ashley has also been a dedicated volunteer tutor with at-risk youth with Whiz Kids for twelve years, as well as a youth soccer coach. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Ashley on her award and thank her for all she does to support young people in our community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Joel Folk of Arvada, Colorado for winning the Arvada Chamber of Commerce's Image Award. Joel is a retired veterinarian and a nearly 30-year member of the Arvada Jefferson Kiwanis. He is also an active volunteer for the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth. Over many years and through his countless volunteer hours, Joel has improved the lives of the youth and elderly across Jefferson County. Arvada Chamber Image Award winners are selected for the positive image of Arvada they portray within the community, and Joel has done just that. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Joel Folk for winning this award and thank him for his commitment to our community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Margarita Tikhanova for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Margarita has overcome many challenges along her journey to success, demonstrating perseverance at every step. Students who strive to make the most of their education, like Margarita, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Margarita's hard work, determination, and perseverance at Jefferson Jr./Sr. High School and is clearly just the beginning of a bright and promising future. It is my honor to congratulate Margarita Tikhanova on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Sophya Sole for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Sophya has overcome many challenges along her journey to success, demonstrating perseverance at every step. Students who strive to make the most of their education, like Sophya, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Sophya's hard work, determination, and perseverance at Jefferson Jr./Sr. High School and is clearly just the beginning of a bright and promising future. It is my honor to congratulate Sophya Sole on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Bryan Santillan for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Bryan has overcome many challenges along his journey to success, demonstrating perseverance at every step. Students who strive to make the most of their education, like Bryan, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Bryan's hard work, determination, and perseverance at Jefferson Jr./Sr. High School and is clearly just the beginning of a bright and promising future. It is my honor to congratulate Bryan Santillan on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Susie Bell of Canon City for being inducted into the Fremont Hall of Fame. Susie was a pillar in Fremont County and spent decades improving the community before her passing in November of 2022. Her many philanthropic contributions and hours of volunteer work continue to have a transformative impact on students and so many others in Fremont County. Susie was committed to advancing education--she built several scholarships for current and future learners, supported early childhood development programs, and donated and volunteered for many events to promote the arts. Her tireless work and dedication to Fremont County did not go unnoticed. She will be missed, but her contributions will last for generations. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Susie Bell for being inducted into Fremont Hall of Fame and thank her for her contribution and commitment to our community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Bruno Suacedo Martinez for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Bruno has overcome many challenges along his journey to success, demonstrating perseverance at every step. Students who strive to make the most of their education, like Bruno, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Bruno's hard work, determination, and perseverance at Jefferson Jr./Sr. High School and is clearly just the beginning of a bright and promising future It is my honor to congratulate Bruno Suacedo Martinez on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mathaniel Sanchez for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Mathaniel has overcome many challenges along his journey to success, demonstrating perseverance at every step. Students who strive to make the most of their education, like Mathaniel, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Mathaniel's hard work, determination, and perseverance at Jefferson Jr./Sr. High School and is clearly just the beginning of a bright and promising future. It is my honor to congratulate Mathaniel Sanchez on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Monica Telles Rodriguez for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Monica has overcome many challenges along her journey to success, demonstrating perseverance at every step. Students who strive to make the most of their education, like Monica, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Monica's hard work, determination, and perseverance at Jefferson Jr./Sr. High School and is clearly just the beginning of a bright and promising future. It is my honor to congratulate Monica Telles Rodriguez on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Andres Sanchez- Rubio for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Andres has overcome many challenges along his journey to success, demonstrating perseverance at every step. Students who strive to make the most of their education, like Andres, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Andres's hard work, determination, and perseverance at Jefferson Jr./Sr. High School and is clearly just the beginning of a bright and promising future. It is my honor to congratulate Andres Sanchez-Rubio on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Caitlen Ruliffson for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Caitlen has overcome many challenges along her journey to success, demonstrating perseverance at every step. Students who strive to make the most of their education, like Caitlen, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Caitlen's hard work, determination, and perseverance at Jefferson Jr./Sr. High School and is clearly just the beginning of a bright and promising future. It is my honor to congratulate Caitlen Ruliffson on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.