Member of Congress
Brittany Pettersen
- Role
- Current Representative
- State
- CO
- Party
- Democrat
Speeches
RECOGNIZING DANIEL ROSALES2026-09-04
Ms. PETTERSEN
Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Daniel Rosales for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Daniel 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 Daniel, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Daniel'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 Daniel Rosales on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.
RECOGNIZING ALDIN MEDNOLUCANIN2026-09-04
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.
RECOGNIZING CHRIS LYNN2026-09-04
Ms. PETTERSEN
Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Chris Lynn for his years of service at Seniors Resource Center and to congratulate him on his retirement. Chris Lynn has dedicated his career to treating older adults with dignity, respect, and the support they deserve, making a lasting difference across Colorado. As President and CEO of Seniors Resource Center, he has been a compassionate and thoughtful leader, guiding one of the Jefferson County community's most impactful senior services organizations. Since 1978, the organization has built a legacy of being a comprehensive, community-based provider delivering in-home care, adult day programming, care management, and other essential services to thousands of seniors and their families. Chris's leadership reflects a deeply personal investment in ensuring older adults are supported with independence, stability, and access to the resources they need to thrive. Chris has been a strong voice in Colorado on issues such as unstable funding, service accessibility, and the growing demand for aging services, consistently emphasizing the real human impact behind policy decisions. He serves our community in many capacities, including on regional advisory bodies like the Jefferson County Commission on Aging and the Denver Regional Council on Governments. He also supports mission-driven organizations such as the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, the Colorado Multiple Sclerosis Society, and the Courageous Faces Foundation. Through advocacy and action, Chris has never lost sight of the challenges faced by seniors, especially those on fixed incomes, while helping expand essential services such as food distribution and coordinated care. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to recognize Mr. Chris Lynn and thank him for his service to our community.
RECOGNIZING STOUT STREET FOUNDATION2026-09-04
Ms. PETTERSEN
Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Stout Street Foundation on their 50th anniversary. Fifty years ago, the Stout Street Foundation opened its doors as a safe, supportive home for Coloradans battling addiction. For the past five decades, it has provided hope, stability, and a real pathway to lasting recovery. What started as a small recovery house in Denver has grown into one of Colorado's most trusted long-term residential treatment communities, offering recovery services, workforce development, counseling, and peer support to individuals working to rebuild their lives. Today, the Foundation serves more than 400 individuals each year through its therapeutic community model, which emphasizes accountability, life skills development, and lasting personal growth. Over the last 50 years, its work has helped over 10,000 Coloradans achieve lasting sobriety, reconnect with their families, and return to their communities with renewed purpose and genuine opportunity. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate the Stout Street Foundation on its 50th anniversary and wish the organization continued success in its important work for many years to come.
RECOGNIZING THE COLORADO PASSPORT AGENCY2026-09-04
Ms. PETTERSEN
Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Colorado Passport Agency on its 20th anniversary. Since opening on September 29, 2005, the Colorado Passport Agency has been assisting constituents in Colorado, Nebraska, and Wyoming with their urgent travel needs. The Colorado Passport Agency serves as a vital lifeline for travelers facing urgent situations. Since 2023, the Colorado Passport Agency has processed nearly 1.3 million passport applications on-site through 2025. During the unexpected surge of passport applications in 2023, our office relied heavily on the Colorado Passport Agency, and they worked tirelessly to assist our constituents and my team. Through my office alone, the agency has assisted hundreds of constituents--helping them attend weddings abroad, reunite with loved ones, and navigate unexpected travel emergencies with confidence and peace of mind. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate the Colorado Passport Office on its 20th anniversary and thank them for their contribution to our community.
RECOGNIZING ROYAL FAMILY KIDS ARVADA2026-09-04
Ms. PETTERSEN
Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Royal Family Kids from Arvada, Colorado for winning the 2026 Golden Rotary Ethics in Business Award for a not-for-profit organization. Royal Family Kids Arvada is a subchapter of For The Children, a national nonprofit that has served at-risk foster youth since 1985. In their unrelenting support for children who have experienced relational trauma in the foster care system or abuse, Royal Family Kids Arvada is driven by the mission to ensure every ``kid from hard places'' is treated well. Their commitment to responsible stewardship, financial transparency, trauma-informed care, and long-term mentorship serves both their donors and the healthy development of each child they serve. Supporting at-risk youth in our community is such critical work. As someone who faced many challenges growing up, I know my life is on a much different path because of the adults and teachers in Jefferson County who cared about me and invested in me as a teen. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to thank Royal Family Kids Arvada for all they do to support at-risk youth in Jefferson County.
RECOGNIZING NASHELY LEON MATOS2026-09-04
Ms. PETTERSEN
Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Nashely Leon Matos for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Nashely 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 Nashely, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Nashely'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 Nashely Leon Matos on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.
RECOGNIZING CANNONBALL CREEK BREWING COMPANY2026-09-04
Ms. PETTERSEN
Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Cannonball Creek Brewing Company of Golden, Colorado, for receiving both gold and silver medals at the Beer World Cup, designating their Project Alpha 81 and Mindbender brews as world-class. The World Beer Cup, otherwise known as the ``Olympics of Beer,'' evaluates beers from around the world and recognizes the top brewers and their beers, drawing 8,166 entries from 50 countries. Beyond their medal, the Cannonball Creek Brewing Company won in the most competitive category, known as West Coast-style IPA. Small businesses like Cannonball Creek Brewing Company help drive Golden's local economy and our state's economy. For both natives and members of Golden's thriving tourism industry, Cannonball Creek Brewing Company has provided excellent service and beers for over 20 years, contributing to Colorado's leadership in producing outstanding craft brews. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate the Cannonball Creek Brewing Company on receiving a gold and silver medal at the World Beer Cup and thank them for their contributions to our community.
RECOGNIZING BABY DOE'S CLOTHING2026-09-04
Ms. PETTERSEN
Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Baby Doe's Clothing from Golden, Colorado, for winning the 2026 Golden Rotary Club's Ethics in Business Award for a for-profit organization. For over two and a half decades, Baby Doe's Clothing has supported the Golden community through volunteer efforts, donated goods, and by fundraising for local organizations. Named after Colorado infamous historical figure Elizabeth ``Baby Doe'' Tabor, their organization sells a variety of women's clothing and accessories in downtown Golden. Baby Doe's Clothing stands as a model business promoting the best interest of Golden--recycling their waste, prioritizing transparency with customers, and donating excess inventory to local non-profits supporting low-income and previously incarcerated women. Baby Doe's Clothing owner, Lynn Conrad and original founder Nancy Mason, have also gone above and beyond for our community by volunteering their time with the Golden Chamber of Commerce and for cherished community events like the Golden Fine Arts Festival. They also contribute as community sponsors for the organizations GoFarm and the Golden Civic Foundation. In the words of her award nominee, Lynn is ``all about Golden'' and ``has lived in, worked in, and contributed to Golden for over two decades.'' On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to recognize Baby Doe's Clothing for all they do for our community.
RECOGNIZING JAKE CANTER2026-09-04
Ms. PETTERSEN
Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jake Canter, born in Evergreen, Colorado, for representing the United States in the Men's Snowboard Slopestyle at the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Milan, Italy and congratulate him on his winning of the bronze medal. In 2016, Jake experienced a traumatic brain injury that caused him to go into a six-day coma with a 20 percent survival rate. Jake had to relearn how to walk and talk and ultimately returned to snowboarding in 2017. With hard work and community support, he ended up earning the Junior Jam title at the 2018 U.S. Open and at just 15 years old Jake competed in the inaugural 2019 Knuckle Huck at X Games Aspen, earning a silver medal. Jake went on to win a bronze medal at the 2022 Laax Open and represented the USA at the 2023 FIS Snowboard World Championships in Bakuriani, Georgia. And in 2026, Jake made his Olympic debut in Milan and won bronze. Jake Canter's story is one of resilience in the face of challenges. Not only did he overcome the obstacles but found growth and is now inspiring other Coloradans to do the same. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Jake Canter for winning the bronze medal and representing Colorado as part of the 2026 Winter U.S. Olympic Team at the Milan Olympics.
RECOGNIZING FRANK BARNES2026-09-02
Ms. PETTERSEN
Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Frank Barnes, faculty member of Red Rocks Community College, for his service to our community. Frank has been an essential part of the Red Rocks Facilities department for nearly a decade, serving the campus with dedication and compassion. He started his career serving our country in the United States Air Force from 1981 to 1988, and continued working for the public as a civil engineer before joining Red Rocks Community College in 2016. Those who have worked with Frank at Red Rocks Community College know him for his hard work, reliability, and generosity. In addition, my staff has appreciated his support and reliability with our Congressional Art Competition over the last four years. Though Frank will be deeply missed within the Red Rocks Community, his retirement is well-deserved. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Frank Barnes on his time with Red Rock Community College and sincerely thank him for his service to our country and the Colorado community. I wish him the best of luck in all his future endeavors.
RECOGNIZING PEACEWORKS, INC.2026-09-02
Ms. PETTERSEN
Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Peaceworks, Inc. on 40 years of important work serving domestic violence survivors in rural Colorado mountain communities. Since 1986, Peaceworks, Inc. has offered advocacy and support to survivors of intimate partner violence in Colorado. The non-profit has provided nearly 2,000 nights of shelter since its original establishment in the spare bedroom of a Park County Commissioner, who took on the need she saw in her town. Forty years later, Peaceworks, Inc. has become a critical resource, providing shelter, counseling, and educational services across Jefferson and Park counties as the only domestic violence shelter in a 2,800-square-mile region within these mountain communities. Through its 24/7 SafeLine, Mountain Peace Shelter, mobile and non- residential advocacy, Community Wellness Program, and prevention outreach, PeaceWorks, Inc. addresses both immediate safety and the long-term impact of trauma. With its SafePet program, Peaceworks, Inc. is one of the few domestic violence shelters in the state that allow survivors to bring their pets when seeking services. Under the leadership of Executive Director Sabrina Fritts, the organization has worked tirelessly to address trauma and promote healthy relationships through communal wellness sessions and educational outreach. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Peaceworks, Inc. on 40 years of serving and advocating for survivors and wish them continued success in the future.
RECOGNIZING RECOVERYWORKS2026-09-02
Ms. PETTERSEN
Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate RecoveryWorks on its 5th anniversary. Since opening in 2021 at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, RecoveryWorks has served as a reliable safe place for the unhoused community in Colorado. RecoveryWorks offers comprehensive services for those in need, including mental health support, addiction recovery programs, and job placement assistance, as well as respite care and hygiene facilities. Originally founded as a low-barrier emergency day shelter, RecoveryWorks has since evolved. They have relocated to the Mountain View Flats, which now serves as the site for their Bridge Housing program and through this new facility, they offer 34 units of immediate, short-term housing. Having grown up as an at-risk youth, I understand firsthand that access to resources and a strong support system are foundational to achieving success. This is precisely what RecoveryWorks offers to so many individuals. RecoveryWorks brings dignity, hope, and stability to people during some of the most difficult moments in their lives. They have had and will continue to have a lasting impact on the entire community. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate RecoveryWorks on celebrating their 5th anniversary and thank them for their service to our community.
RECOGNIZING STEVE ART2026-09-02
Ms. PETTERSEN
Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Mr. Steve Art on his retirement from the City of Wheat Ridge and to thank him for 15 years of dedicated service to the community. Since 2011, Steve has played a pivotal role in shaping the economic future of Wheat Ridge, serving as both the Economic Development Manager and the Executive Director of the Urban Renewal Authority. Since his first major project, which brought a Sprouts Farmers Market to the area, Steve has worked tirelessly to build strong partnerships with businesses, developers, and community leaders. His commitment to redevelopment and his talent for attracting new investment have helped guide Wheat Ridge into a new chapter of economic vitality. Thanks in large part to Steve's efforts, Wheat Ridge has grown into a thriving, sustainable suburban community with accessible public transportation, vibrant businesses, and improved amenities for residents. Steve's legacy will be represented in his final major project, the Clear Creek Crossing, which will bring new opportunities and continued growth to Wheat Ridge for years to come. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Steve Art on his outstanding service and wish him all the best in his well-earned retirement.
RECOGNIZING DONNA WALKER2026-09-02
Ms. PETTERSEN
Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Jefferson County Public Library Director Donna Walker on her retirement after 14 years of service. Donna's tenure is best characterized by her commitment to making library services more accessible to all patrons. Under Donna's transformational leadership, underserved communities saw expanded library services, including greater access for Spanish- speaking residents as she championed the hiring of bilingual employees. Donna strongly supported library services in rural communities by working on plans to develop three new campuses in our remote neighborhoods. Thanks to Donna's outstanding work, Jefferson County became home to our Nation's first staffless library, which provides residents with access to books, office supplies, and other library resources. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Donna Walker on her retirement and thank her for her commitment to serving our community.
RECOGNIZING DOMINICK BRETON2026-09-02
Ms. PETTERSEN
Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Dominick Breton of Wheat Ridge for his impactful contribution to small businesses and the community of Wheat Ridge. Leaving behind a legacy of kindness, Mr. Breton passed away on June 18, 2026. Fondly known as ``Mr. Wheat Ridge,'' Dominick was a beloved contributor to our community, participating in events, service projects, and business advocacy. Dominick served as president of the Wheat Ridge Chamber of Commerce for over seven years and was a member of Kiwanis for nine years. Dominick had an inspirational gift to mobilize his neighbors and community members to help with projects or initiatives to benefit the community. Through his dedication, he made a deeply positive impact on our community. During his final months, Dominick persevered through his work with the same strength and passion. Though he will be missed, his legacy of service lives on in the many lives he touched. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to recognize Dominick Breton for his impact and thank him for his contribution to the Wheat Ridge community and beyond. We will remember him fondly as Wheat Ridge carries on his mission.
RECOGNIZING TIM MILLER2026-09-02
Ms. PETTERSEN
Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Tim Miller, who is retiring from his service to our community as a Drawing, Painting, and Graphic Arts Instructor at Golden High School. For more than 20 years, Tim has inspired generations of students through his creativity, dedication, and leadership. His positive outlook and ability to encourage and challenge students have left a lasting impact on both the students of Golden High School and the art community in Colorado. During his time teaching, Tim has consistently gone above and beyond for his students. He has regularly taken them on field trips to assisted living homes, the Children's Hospital, the Denver Indian Center, and the Denver Rescue Mission to inspire them through art in the Metro Denver community. Tim's commitment to his students has been evident in everything he has done--including obtaining a bus driver's license to ensure his students would continue to get these meaningful experiences while cutting down on costs and logistical hurdles for the school. These opportunities have challenged students artistically and taught them compassion, service, and connection. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Tim Miller on his retirement from Golden High School and sincerely thank him for his contributions to our community.
RECOGNIZING DR. KALEN RASMUSSEN2026-09-02
Ms. PETTERSEN
Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Kalen Rasmussen, from Lakewood, Colorado, for his participation in the Department of Energy's National Laboratory Research SLAM in D.C. as the representative for the National Laboratory of the Rockies (NLR). Dr. Rasmussen received the Energy Security award for his presentation, ``From Microbes to Metals: Powering Energy Security.'' Every year, Americans discard hundreds of thousands of tons of valuable metal-containing batteries. Dr. Rasmussen's work at NLR advances biologically enabled methods for recovering critical metals from battery waste, using microorganisms and bio-based systems to help break down and process complex materials. Through his research, he has advanced the United States' capability to utilize its domestic waste, recover critical metals, and strengthen energy security and independence. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Dr. Kalen Rasmussen on winning the Energy Security award and representing Colorado in the 2026 DOE National Laboratory Research SLAM.
RECOGNIZING THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA2026-09-02
Ms. PETTERSEN
Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the United States of America's 250th anniversary. Two hundred and fifty years ago, our founding fathers signed the Declaration of Independence, announcing our sovereignty as a Nation and proclaiming the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. While our country has often failed to live up to these ideals, through the work of many courageous Americans, we have made slow but steadfast progress toward our shared goal of a country that truly embodies liberty and justice for all. Across our fifty states and many diverse communities, our country has countless proud traditions and accomplishments. For myself, as a high- risk youth who grew up in Jefferson County, Colorado. I know personally what is possible in this country when we invest in people and give them the resources they need to succeed. As a lifelong Coloradan, I was raised with a deep appreciation for our outdoor spaces and public lands. Our country's people and places are what make the United States so special. As we celebrate this momentous occasion, I am struck by the ingenuity, generosity, resilience, and bravery of my fellow citizens, both past and present, who have helped shape what it means to be an American and encourage our country to strive for the better angels of our nature. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, I celebrate our country's 250th anniversary. With an eye to how we can learn from our past, I am excited and hopeful as we move forward into a new period in our country's history.
RECOGNIZING PHILIP C. SNEED2026-09-02
Ms. PETTERSEN
Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Philip C. Sneed for his extraordinary leadership and lasting contributions to the Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities as he retires after nearly 14 years as President and CEO. Philip Sneed's connection to the Arvada Center spans nearly its entire 50-year history. At 17, he received his first paycheck from the Arvada Center for a role in its inaugural theatre season. After a distinguished career in the arts in both Colorado and California, Philip returned to Arvada to lead the very institution where his artistic journey began--bringing his career full circle. During his tenure, Philip became the longest-serving leader in the Arvada Center's history. His leadership helped guide the organization through some of its most significant milestones and challenges, including its transition from a City of Arvada entity to an independent nonprofit organization. He also helped the Center endure the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic, ensuring that this treasured cultural institution remained strong during a time when communities could not gather in person. Philip has worked to make the Arvada Center a more welcoming and inclusive place, one where all people feel they belong and where the arts can be experienced by everyone in our community. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to recognize Philip C. Sneed and thank him for his contribution to our community.
RECOGNIZING STEVE SELLE2026-08-31
Ms. PETTERSEN
Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Steve Selle for receiving the Arvada Chamber of Commerce's 2025 Image Award. Image Award winners are selected for their commitment to Arvada and the overall positive image they portray within the community. As a longtime member of the Lake Arbor Optimists Club, Steve has changed countless lives and brought a sorely-needed positive outlook to our community. He also founded the Optimists Bicycle Program, donating over 1,200 bicycles to schools, churches, nonprofits, and community organizations throughout Jefferson and Adams Counties. He also helped launch the annual Arvada Bicycle Recycling Day, which has given more than 800 bicycles a second life. For over 37 years, Steve has made education possible for young Coloradans, serving as a principal and teacher in multiple school districts before retiring in 2008. Through service as an educator, advocate, and a volunteer with multiple groups, Steve embodies the best of Arvada--a place where community, service, and humanity thrive. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Steve Selle for this award and thank him for his commitment to our community.
RECOGNIZING JAN ECKHARDT2026-08-31
Ms. PETTERSEN
Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jan Eckhardt for receiving the Arvada Chamber of Commerce's 2025 Woman of the Year Award. The title of Woman of the Year is awarded to an exceptional individual who demonstrates extraordinary community involvement, generosity, and overall impact on Arvada. As a lifelong advocate for people, parks, and animals in Arvada, Jan Eckhardt is a deserving recipient of this honor. During her more than 32 years serving on the North Jeffco (now Apex) Park and Recreation District Board of Directors, Eckhardt has been a champion for our local open spaces--even securing a park near her home and preserving what is now Jack B. Tomlinson Park. She has also brought that sense of land stewardship to her work on the Board of Two Ponds Wildlife Refuge, the MaxFund Board of Directors, and the West Side Denver Symphony Guild, which integrates cultural prosperity with humanitarian advocacy. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Jan Eckhardt on receiving the 2025 Woman of the Year Award and thank her for her contributions to our community.
RECOGNIZING JOE HENGSTLER2026-08-31
Ms. PETTERSEN
Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the late Joe Hengstler for receiving the Arvada Chamber of Commerce's 2025 Image Award posthumously. Image Award winners are selected for their commitment to Arvada and the overall positive image they portray within the community. Joe, who was a tremendous advocate for Arvada, was lovingly called the ``Mayor of Olde Town.'' Joe was instrumental in developing signature events like Second Saturdays, and he was a champion of initiatives that enhanced Olde Town's welcoming, walkable character, including with pedestrian-friendly design and public art. His commitment to our community helped make it a vibrant regional destination and one of the area's most cherished landmarks. Joe is described by those closest to him as ``hard on the issues, but easy on the people.'' In times of crisis, especially during the COVID- 19 pandemic, his bold and altruistic leadership was invaluable in helping local companies survive. Even after his diagnosis with Stage 4 cancer in February 2024, Joe remained steadfast in his mission and remained committed to our community--planning events, collaborating with regional stakeholders, and tirelessly advocating for small businesses. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to help dedicate this award in memory of Joe Hengstler and thank him for his contributions to our community.
RECOGNIZING THE OUTDOOR LAB FOUNDATION2026-08-31
Ms. PETTERSEN
Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Outdoor Lab Foundation on the 50th anniversary of their Windy Peaks Campus. For over 60 years, the Outdoor Lab has touched the lives of young people in Jefferson County by providing a week-long camp experience that helps middle and high school students build leadership, communication, and teamwork skills. Beyond this, the Outdoor Lab has helped generations of Jefferson County students develop a lasting appreciation for Colorado's natural spaces. At both their Mount Blue Sky campus in Evergreen and Windy Peak campus in Bailey, the Outdoor Lab Foundation welcomes over 5,000 students each year. As a proud Outdoor Lab alumna and former high school student leader myself, I can personally attest to the importance of their work. I thank them for investing in our children and in access to the outdoor spaces that are such an important part of our Colorado way of life. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate the Outdoor Lab Foundation on 50 years of outdoors education at their Windy Peak campus and wish them continued success in the future.
RECOGNIZING JEFF STREETER2026-08-31
Ms. PETTERSEN
Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Executive Director Jeff Streeter of the Jefferson County Communications Center Authority (Jeffcom 911) for his service to Jefferson County, and to congratulate him on his retirement. Jeff has honorably served the Jefferson County community for 9 years, culminating in an exemplary law enforcement career of over 31 years. Jeff began his dedicated career in public service with the Broomfield Police Department, then continued on to serve as Lakewood Police Department Commander, and as Chief of Police for Lone Tree, before joining Jeffcom 911. Under Jeff's leadership, Jeffcom 911 grew from its early stages of development into a dispatch communications center recognized nationally for its stability, innovation, and success. As Executive Director, Jeff oversaw the operations and strategic direction of the center, establishing key initiatives including Advisory Planning Teams, a Peer Assistance Team, Training and Quality Assurance Teams, an Information Technology Division, and their Support Services Division. I join the communities Jeff has served throughout his career in gratitude for his leadership and commitment to keeping our neighborhoods safe with efficient emergency response efforts. Although Jeff's outstanding leadership will be greatly missed, his efforts to build Jeffcom 911 have created a lasting service for all future generations who depend on the critical services they provide. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Jeff Streeter on his well-earned retirement from a distinguished career of service to Jefferson County.