Brittany Pettersen

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Eden Rayne Nehls for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Eden Rayne 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 Eden Rayne, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Eden Rayne'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 Eden Rayne Nehls on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ira Arora for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Ira 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 Ira, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Ira's hard work, determination, and perseverance at Drake Middle School and is clearly just the beginning of a bright and promising future. It is my honor to congratulate Ira Arora on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Evelyn Luna Avalos for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Evelyn 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 Evelyn, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Evelyn'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 Evelyn Luna Avalos on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ivan Rangel for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Ivan 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 Ivan, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Ivan'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 Ivan Rangel on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Aldin Mednolucanin for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Aldin 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 Aldin, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Aldin's hard work, determination, and perseverance at Arvada West High School and is clearly just the beginning of a bright and promising future. It is my honor to congratulate Aldin Mednolucanin on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I missed two votes in the vote series on April 27, 2026. Had I been present, I would have voted: YEA on Roll Call No. 139, final passage of H.R. 227, the Clergy Act, and YEA on Roll Call No. 138, final passage of H.R. 7959, the IRS Whistleblower Program Improvement Act.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Mr. John Covert of Aurora, Colorado, for over seven years of service as Chief Capital Campaign Officer to The Action Center and to congratulate him on his retirement. John served for more than seven years on the executive board of The Action Center, a Lakewood-based non-profit providing family services and financial support to community members. Throughout his time on the board, John's dedication, expertise, and skilled leadership helped to provide financial stability for the organization by increasing funding to fulfill 75 percent of the Action Center's fundraising goal. With John's help, the Action Center supported thousands of community members with free clothing, food, family services, and financial coaching. Before serving at The Action Center, John spent 25 years volunteering at other community organizations, including as Director of Marketing and Development at the Glory Center, Director of Development at Families of Character, and Divisional Director of Development of the Salvation Army. Throughout his years of service, John has improved the lives of thousands of Coloradans. Although his departure from The Action Center will be felt deeply by those he served, John's lasting contributions to the organization and our community are invaluable and will continue to impact Coloradans for years to come. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Mr. John Covert on his retirement and thank him for his service to our community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Dr. Walter C. Copan for his years of service to our state and country and to congratulate him on his retirement. Dr. Copan began his distinguished career in the mid-1970s, spending nearly three decades in private-sector research and technology leadership. From 2003 to 2005, he advanced America's energy innovation efforts at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, where he served in key technology transfer and commercialization roles. In 2017, he was unanimously confirmed by the United States Senate as Under Secretary of Commerce and Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, where he worked tirelessly to strengthen America's innovation and technology transfer policies. In 2021, he joined the Colorado School of Mines as Vice President for Research and Technology Transfer, helping the university grow as a leading public research institution. Known for his warmth and generosity, Dr. Copan has often reminded colleagues that ``it's a great day to be an Oredigger.'' Though he is retiring from his formal role at Mines, Dr. Copan will continue his longstanding commitment to public service and scientific advancement through his leadership with a number of national medical and scientific research organizations. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Dr. Walter G. Copan on his retirement and thank him for his service to our country and our community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Professor Crisosto Apache of Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design for being named Colorado's Poet Laureate. Crisosto is an accomplished multimedia artist, writer, poet, educator, and advocate for the Native American Indigenous LGBTQ/Two- spirit identity. Their recognition by the Governor of Colorado reflects Crisosto's extraordinary talent and distinguished achievements as a poet, as well as their enduring commitment to the arts, to education, and to literary expression across diverse communities. As Colorado's Poet Laureate, Crisosto will continue to amplify the voices and stories of all people who have called Colorado home, and spread the transformative and connective powers of poetry across public spaces. Crisosto is originally from the Mescalero Apache Reservation in New Mexico and is Colorado's first Indigenous Poet Laureate. They have published two poetry collections and received accolades, including the Betty Berzon Emerging Writers Award for their achievements in creative writing. As a longtime Lakewood resident and respected professor at the Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design, Cristoso exemplifies creative excellence and outstanding service to students. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Crisosto Apache for being named Colorado's Poet Laureate and thank them for their contribution and commitment to our community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities for its 50th anniversary. Since opening in 1976, the Arvada Center has been an important cultural institution in Colorado, enriching our community through theatre, visual arts, arts education, and public programs that engage and inspire people of all ages. For fifty years, the Arvada Center has brought artists, students, audiences, and families together--sparking creativity, nurturing learning, and building lasting connections. It has become a cornerstone of the cultural life of Arvada, Jefferson County, and the greater Denver metro area, offering high-quality artistic experiences while remaining committed to broad community access and participation. The Arvada Center's lasting success reflects the dedication of its staff, educators, performers, volunteers, and supporters, all of whom have helped build a vibrant and welcoming place for the arts to thrive. Its impact extends well beyond its campus, strengthening our region through artistic excellence, education, and civic engagement. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate the Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities on its 50th anniversary and thank them for their contribution to our community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Tegain Boley for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Tegain 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 Tegain, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Tegain's hard work, determination, and perseverance at Arvada High School and is clearly just the beginning of a bright and promising future. It is my honor to congratulate Tegain Boley on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Darrien O'Reilly for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Darrien 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 Darrien, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Darrien's hard work, determination, and perseverance at Arvada High School and is clearly just the beginning of a bright and promising future. It is my honor to congratulate Darrien O'Reilly on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Elianna Boening for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Elianna 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 Elianna, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Elianna's hard work, determination, and perseverance at Arvada West High School and is clearly just the beginning of a bright and promising future. It is my honor to congratulate Elianna Boening on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Angel Cova Rojas for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Angel 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 Angel, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Angel's hard work, determination, and perseverance at Arvada West High School and is clearly just the beginning of a bright and promising future. It is my honor to congratulate Angel Cova Rojas on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Sienna Kittles for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Sienna 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 Sienna, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Sienna's hard work, determination, and perseverance at Arvada West High School and is clearly just the beginning of a bright and promising future. It is my honor to congratulate Sienna Kittles on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Police Chief Joe Harvey for his service to the City of Golden, Colorado, and to congratulate him on his retirement. Joe served the Golden community for more than 11 years, culminating a distinguished law enforcement career that spanned nearly 40 years. Under his leadership, the Golden Police Department oversaw significant reductions in crime and historic employee retention. With popular policies like a four-day workweek and the Community Engagement Group, Joe helped strengthen the community's trust in the police force and made Golden home to one of the few fully staffed police departments in the State. Those who have worked with Joe know him for his genuine nature and warm demeanor. He has cared deeply about his officers, helping lead the department in responding to the tragic loss of Officer Evan Dunn and the injury of Officer Bethany Grusing while responding to a traffic accident. Though Joe will be missed for his kind, steadfast leadership within the Department and City, his retirement is well-deserved. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, I am honored to congratulate Police Chief Joe Harvey on his well-earned retirement from a distinguished career of public service to the City of Golden.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I missed two votes in the vote series on April 14, 2026. Had I been present, I would have voted: YEA on Roll Call No. 110, passage of H.R. 7613, the ALERT Act, and YEA on Roll Call No. 109, passage of H.R. 1011, the Emergency Conservation Program Improvement Act.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Equalized Productions of Arvada, Colorado for receiving the Arvada Chamber of Commerce's 2025 Business of the Year Award. This year, Equalized Productions--a locally owned, full-service audio-visual and event production company celebrates 25 years in business, marked by an unwavering commitment to quality and exceptional care for every client they serve. Equalized Productions not only successfully navigated significant obstacles, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, but also demonstrated a commitment to its employees by retaining its staff and creating new job opportunities during periods of national layoffs. Even during challenging times, the company remained steadfast in ensuring its team members felt valued, supported, and empowered. Equalized Productions consistently partners with and supports nonprofit organizations, prioritizes local business engagement, and generously donates their time to assist worthy causes and neighbors in need. While much of this service is performed without seeking recognition, its positive impact is broadly felt throughout the Arvada community. Every year, this award recognizes a business that provides a superior level of customer service while using ingenuity and innovation to overcome challenges. Equalized Productions' resilience and commitment to both its clients and its employees make them a truly deserving recipient of this recognition. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Equalized Productions for this award and thank them for their commitment to the Arvada community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Julie Dawson of Arvada, Colorado, for receiving the Arvada Chamber of Commerce's 2025 Community Champion Award. Julie is the publisher for Best Version Media and is an irreplaceable cornerstone of the Arvada community. Julie champions small business leaders by building powerful connections that turn collaboration into real momentum. Her commitment to our community is exemplified by her monthly networking happy hours, which provide business owners with a valuable platform to build meaningful relationships and access key opportunities and resources. The Community Champion Award honors a person who demonstrates an exceptional commitment to serving the Arvada community, and Julie's dedication to empowering local businesses makes her truly deserving of this recognition. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Julie Dawson on receiving this award and thank her for her contributions to the Arvada community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize John Marriott of Arvada, Colorado for receiving the Arvada Chamber of Commerce's 2025 Policy Leader of the Year Award. John Marriott began his public service in 2007 as a member of the Arvada Board of Adjustment. He was later elected to the Arvada City Council from 2013 to 2025 and served as Mayor Pro-Tem from 2017 to 2019. In his time serving the Arvada community, John spearheaded partnerships among Arvada, Jefferson County Schools, and Apex Parks & Recreation that created the Fitzmorris and Arvada Aquatic Centers. He also advanced major infrastructure projects like the Ralston Road and 72nd Avenue improvements. John has worked alongside community leaders and championed policies to ensure our local businesses have the resources and tools they need to serve our communities and drive economic growth. The Policy Leader of the Year is awarded to a public official who demonstrates an extraordinary commitment to helping Arvada businesses thrive, and John's dedication to strengthening our local economy, fostering public-private partnerships, and delivering real solutions for the community makes him a truly deserving recipient of this honor. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate John Marriott on receiving the Policy Leader Award and thank him for his contributions to the Arvada community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Teller County Commissioner Dan Williams for receiving the 2025 Wagon Boss Award from the Woodland Park Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber's highest honor, the Wagon Boss Award, is given to those with a lifetime of service defined by integrity, mentorship, and civic leadership. From his youth mentorship to nonprofit leadership, Williams embodies these principles. Dan is a highly decorated, 30-year combat veteran and servant leader who has honorably served his country through multiple overseas deployments and continued that commitment by serving his community at home. As a County Commissioner, he has served as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) and been a staunch advocate for fellow veterans. Dan has been an active member of the community, serving on a variety of boards and organizations, including the Colorado Wildlife Council, VFW Post 6051, El Pomar Foundation, and the Congressional District 7 Veterans Advisory Board. His vision for the future has helped drive year-over-year economic development, a drop in crime, and infrastructure investments that prepare Teller County for the future. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, I am honored to congratulate Teller County Commissioner Dan Williams for his recognition as the Woodland Park Chamber of Commerce's 2025 Wagon Boss.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Chris and Deana Hill of Odyssey Beerwerks for receiving the Arvada Chamber of Commerce's 2025 Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Odyssey Beerwerks is a values-driven brewery that blends hospitality with innovation. Chris and Deana have dedicated their lives to refining beers, hosting events, and providing excellent service, all based directly on customer feedback. Chris and Deana are deeply rooted in Arvada as both residents and business owners. Chris has made a lasting impact on the local business community through his service on the Arvada Chamber of Commerce Board, where he founded the Chamber's Business Mastery Group. He has also held leadership roles with the Arvada Visitors Center Board, the Entrepreneurship KAPS Council, and the Beverage Industry Roundtable, and regularly lends his expertise on panels alongside city and county leaders. Every year, the Entrepreneur of the Year Award recognizes the commitment, investment, and innovation of business owners in the Arvada community, and Chris and Deana's community involvement and dedication to elevating both their craft and their peers make them truly deserving of this recognition. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Chris and Deana Hill for this award and thank them for their commitment to the Arvada community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Stacy Gaskill of Golden, Colorado for representing the United States in Women's Snowboarding at the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Milan, Italy. Stacy is a lifelong athlete, having been involved in winter sports since the age of two. In 2014, she first came to national prominence after placing 1st in the Rocky Mountain Series for Breakers and 12th nationwide in snowboarding. She would continue to place highly on various national and worldwide snowboarding tournaments before competing in the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, where she made it to the semifinals. She has shown remarkable resilience, pressing forward in her athletic career despite facing multiple injuries along the way. Stacy is an admirable athlete who has shown a lifelong dedication to her sport. The Colorado community is so proud to have Stacy representing us at the 2026 Olympic Games. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Stacy Gaskill for representing Colorado and the United States during the 2026 Winter Olympic Games.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Kyle Negomir of Littleton, Colorado, for representing the United States in Men's Alpine Skiing at the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Milan, Italy. Kyle is an accomplished and versatile athlete, excelling in football, lacrosse, and waterskiing, as well as skiing. After high school, he was recruited to Dartmouth College and offered a spot on their skiing team. After a serious injury in 2022, he overcame a challenging two-year recovery to return to skiing stronger and more determined than ever. I applaud his grit and perseverance in representing the U.S. at the 2026 Winter Olympics and extend my congratulations on his placing in the top ten for men's downhill skiing and ranking highest of the four Americans competing in this event. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Kyle Negomir for representing Colorado and the United States during the 2026 Winter Olympic Games.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Family Tree for receiving the Arvada Chamber of Commerce's 2025 Nonprofit of the Year Award. Family Tree drives lasting change in Arvada by tackling the interconnected challenges of child abuse, domestic violence, and homelessness. In 2025, they celebrated a groundbreaking development with the opening of Marshall Street Landing. This investment provides 85 fully furnished homes with on-site, 24/7 case management for individuals experiencing homelessness--establishing Arvada's first and only Permanent Supportive Housing community. Family Tree exemplifies the spirit of service and leadership by meeting people where they are and guiding them toward transformation, stability, and safety. Every year, the Non-Profit of the Year Award honors one outstanding organization for their support of Arvada and its citizens through impactful programs, services, and overall involvement within the community. Family Tree's commitment to restoring lives, strengthening families, and providing a pathway to long-term stability makes them a truly deserving recipient of this award. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Family Tree for this award and thank them for their contributions to the community.