Brittany Pettersen

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Gabriel Sanchez 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 Arvada High School and is clearly just the beginning of a bright and promising future. It is my honor to congratulate Gabriel Sanchez on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

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

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Noah Cox for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Noah 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 Noah, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Noah's hard work, determination, and perseverance at Arvada K-8 and is clearly just the beginning of a bright and promising future. It is my honor to congratulate Noah Cox on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Kimo Bull for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Kimo 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 Kimo, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Kimo's hard work, determination, and perseverance at Arvada K-8 and is clearly just the beginning of a bright and promising future. It is my honor to congratulate Kimo Bull on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

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

Ms. PETTERSEN

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

Ms. PETTERSEN

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

Ms. PETTERSEN

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

Ms. PETTERSEN

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

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Anthony Yan of Westminster, Colorado. Anthony is one of only a few high school students across the country to be awarded the prestigious National Security Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y) scholarship. As part of this program, Anthony will travel to Taiwan this summer to engage in intensive instruction in the Mandarin language, while living with a local host family and becoming immersed in Taiwanese culture. Launched in 2006, NSLI-Y gives high-achieving American high school students the opportunity to gain rigorous instruction and immersive experiences learning languages critical to America's national security and global cooperation. Many NSLI-Y alumni go on to distinguished careers in national security and public service using the language skills gained through this scholarship program. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Anthony Yan for this impressive accomplishment and wish him all the best on his upcoming travels to Taiwan.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Margaret Hotopp of Evergreen, Colorado. Margaret was selected as one of only 15 high school students nationwide to represent the United States through the State Department's Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX) Abroad Program. Created in 1993 after the dissolution of the Soviet Union, the FLEX program sought to foster meaningful relationships between students from countries in Eastern Europe and Eurasia with Americans and citizens of other countries. The modern FLEX Abroad program sends high-achieving American students to Eastern Europe and Western Asia to develop leadership skills, learn new languages, and represent our country as citizen ambassadors. This year, Margaret will travel to Poland, attending school, living with a host family, and collaborating with the Department of State to integrate into her host community and promote mutual understanding between Americans and the Polish people. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Margaret Hotopp for this impressive accomplishment and I wish her all the best for her year in Poland.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Katelyn O'Connell of Arvada, Colorado. Katelyn was selected as one of 250 high school students across the country to participate in the Department of State's prestigious Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange (CBYX) Program. Launched in 1983, CBYX selects high achieving youth from both Germany and the United States to live in each other's country for one academic year. During their year abroad, students will foster meaningful relationships between America and Germany, while giving participants new perspectives on peoples and cultures beyond their own. Many CBYX alumni go on to distinguished careers in foreign affairs and public service using the language skills gained through this scholarship program. This year, Katelyn will travel to Germany, attending school, living with a host family, and collaborating with the Department of State to integrate into her host community and promote mutual understanding between Americans and the German people. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Katelyn O'Connell for this impressive accomplishment and wish her all the best in her upcoming year in Germany.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Todd Albrecht of Canon City for being inducted into the Fremont Hall of Fame. Todd is being honored for his dedication and service to the Canon City community through education and arts. His 31-year career as a music educator has left an enormous mark on Canon City High School students, parents, educators, and the surrounding community. He has developed show choirs, supported the musical theater program, and taught countless young people the importance of music and the arts. Todd's commitment to the community is also demonstrated through his work with the Canon City School Board and the Colorado Association of School Boards. He is dedicated to the success of our local education system and has worked towards these goals his entire career. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Todd Albrecht for being inducted into the Fremont Hall of Fame and thank him for his contribution to our community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Brendan Pardue for being named the Royal Gorge Chamber Alliance's 2023 Distinguished Citizen. Brendan was raised in Canon City and has spent his life in Colorado. He attended Regis University and graduated with majors in history, philosophy, and religion and then went on to earn his master's degree in guidance and counseling from the University of Northern Colorado. In 2005, Brendan purchased the Gibson Mansion and spent years restoring the house and reviving a historic part of Canon City. Since completing the restoration, Brendan has offered free use of the house to nonprofit organizations for fundraisers and other events. He has also restored 12 other historic buildings in the area. Brendan's readiness to assist his community is one of many reasons why he is a fitting recipient of the Royal Gorge Chamber Alliance's recognition. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Brendan Pardue for earning this award and thank him for his long standing dedication to our community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Fremont County Office of Emergency Management (OEM) and Department of Transportation (DOT) for their lifesaving work to keep roads clear and restore power during a record-breaking winter storm in March of 2024. This harsh winter storm brought over thirteen inches of snow and caused major power outages throughout the county. Staff from the Fremont County Office of Emergency Management, led by Emergency Manager Mykel Kroll, and the Fremont County Department of Transportation, led by Director Mike Whitt, worked overtime and over weekends throughout inclement weather conditions to clear roadways and restore traffic to over 700 miles of mountainous roadways in the county. Together, they freed an elderly woman who had been trapped in her car by the snow, secured housing for a family who were victims of a fire, restored power to a residential care facility in Florence, rescued a man caught in his vehicle after an avalanche, and helped maintain power for a family with a young child who relies on a supplemental oxygen supply. Under some of the most extreme conditions possible, Fremont County OEM and DOT did an exemplary job of saving lives and serving our community during this storm. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to recognize Florence County Office of Emergency Management and Department of Transportation for their outstanding work and service to our communities.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Teller County Office of Emergency Management (OEM), Public Works Department, and Search and Rescue for their lifesaving work to keep roads clear and restore power during a record-breaking winter storm in March of 2024. This storm brought 40 inches of snow and caused widespread power outages and disruptions to essential services across Teller County. Staff from the Teller County OEM, led by Director Jay Teagues, and the Teller County Public Works Department, led by Director Fred Clifford, worked throughout the storm to clear roadways and remove snow from over 500 miles of mountainous roadways in the county. Alongside Teller County Search and Rescue volunteers, they worked to restore traffic, respond to emergency calls, and bring back power to residents. Tragically, two Teller County residents lost their lives as a result of the storm. Without the heroic efforts of the Teller County OEM, Public Works Department, and Search and Rescue, as well as neighbors helping each other during times of need, the death toll could have been much higher. Under some of the most extreme conditions possible, these Teller County employees did an exemplary job of saving lives during this storm. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to recognize the Teller County Office of Emergency Management, Public Works Department, and Search and Rescue teams for their outstanding work and service to our communities.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Kelly Albrecht of Canon City for being inducted into the Fremont Hall of Fame. Throughout her distinguished 32-year career, Kelly has exemplified innovation in education. Over her tenure, Kelly taught fifth grade and elementary music and took on leadership roles, including serving as Canon Exploratory School middle school principal. After retiring, Kelly continued to shape the future of education in Fremont County as the Induction Coordinator and Teacher Development Coach for the Canon City School District. Her creative and innovative style of leadership has touched the lives of countless students and new teachers starting on their professional journeys. Kelly's legacy is a testament to her passion for education and her impact on creating a culture of learning and excellence within the community. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Kelly Albrecht for her accomplishment and thank her for her contribution to our community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding artistry of Salida High School's Opal Juba and congratulate her on winning the Regional Gold Key Award. The Regional Gold Key Award is a part of the National Art Education Association's Scholastic Awards competition, and Opal's entry was selected as one of the most accomplished pieces out of 20,000 submissions. The regional award is given to the top 5 percent of entries and awarded to artwork which demonstrates the ``highest level of achievement in originality, personal voice and technical skill.'' Opal's piece, entitled ``Jackson'', was created using the technique of ``stippling,'' or small dots, to recreate a photo with intricate shading and depth. It was showcased at the Denver Art Museum and now goes on to the national competition. Opal plans to attend the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, focusing on illustrating and minoring in art education. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Opal Juba for receiving a Gold Key Award. We wish her the best of luck in her future artistic endeavors.

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 2023. 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 the outstanding service of Delores Comstock and congratulate her for being inducted into the Fremont Hall of Fame. Delores' commitment to education and volunteerism has made her a beloved figure in the community, particularly her involvement with the Fremont County 4-H programs. With over 60 years of service, her work as an educator, Special Education volunteer, and Four Mile 4-H Club leader, has enriched the lives of countless individuals and exemplifies the spirit of community service. Delores' ongoing altruism has made a significant difference across Fremont County and makes her a fitting recipient for a spot in their Hall of Fame. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Delores Comstock for her Fremont Hall of Fame induction and thank her for her service to our community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of 20- year-old Alexa Bartell from Arvada, Colorado. Alexa's friends and family knew her as an outgoing, compassionate, and energetic young woman, saying she could light up the room with her infectious personality. She loved basketball, music, and connecting with others. Tragically, Alexa's life was cut short in April of 2023 by an act of reckless endangerment when she was driving near her hometown. Everyone who was fortunate to meet Alexa could see how intelligent, funny, and kind she was, and this tragedy took away her bright future. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, we honor the life of Alexa Bartell and continue to send support and love to her family and friends. In remembering Alexa, we not only mourn her passing, but also celebrate the joy and warmth she brought into the lives of those around her.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Amy Trujillo for receiving Denver7's ``Everyday Hero'' award in recognition of her service to the Wheat Ridge community. Amy has been volunteering for the Wheat Ridge Parks and Recreation's 50+ Trip & Outdoor Recreation (Ramblers) Program since 2021. This was a critical time for Wheat Ridge Parks and Rec, as they were rebuilding and restarting programs shuttered during the pandemic. During a time of staff shortages, Amy led volunteer trips to hiking destinations, concerts, hot springs, and much more from as far south as Pueblo and as far north as Cheyenne, Wyoming. Without the help of volunteers like Amy, the Ramblers Program could have been canceled and the trips and experiences they offer our seniors would not have been possible. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Amy Trujillo for her extraordinary civic service and thank her for her dedication to our community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Echter's Nursery and Garden Center of Arvada, Colorado for receiving the Arvada Chamber of Commerce's 2023 Business of the Year Award. Every year, this award recognizes a business that has established a reputation for providing a superior level of customer service while using ingenuity and innovation to overcome challenges. Not only are the businesses recognized for their economic impact and successes, but they receive this honor because of the support they provide the community by partnering with town residents and nonprofit organizations. Echter's Nursery and Garden Center has been one of Colorado's premiere garden retailers since 1959. The center offers over 2500 varieties of flowers each year in its 70,000 square foot display area. Echter's also gives back to the community in a number of ways, from providing over 300 Christmas trees to families in need every year to hosting events with local nonprofits, such as food drives and fundraisers to provide financial support to teenage parents and their children. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Echter's Nursery and Garden Center for this award and thank them for their commitment to our community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Colorado Succeeds for receiving the Arvada Chamber of Commerce's 2023 Behind the Scenes Award. Every year, the Chamber of Commerce awards one Behind the Scenes honor to an organization or individual who has served as an unsung hero in the Arvada community. Colorado Succeeds is a coalition of business leaders with a vision to radically improve education and training outcomes for learners across backgrounds. Through their invaluable partnership with the Arvada Chamber of Commerce, they support workforce development projects, recruit talent for local businesses and nonprofits, advocate for positive change in government, and fight to break down barriers in our state's workforce system. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Colorado Succeeds for this award and thank them for their commitment to our community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Chris Adams of Arvada, Colorado for receiving the Arvada Chamber of Commerce's Chamber Champion Award. Every year, the Arvada Chamber of Commerce honors outstanding individuals and organizations that have left a lasting legacy on the Arvada area and its residents. Mr. Adams was a treasured member of the community, serving on the Chamber's Board of Directors, as well as at Thrive Workplace and Revive Church. Mr. Adams was constantly asking tough questions and pushing those around him to achieve greatness. This drive created an environment of continuous improvement, propelling the Arvada Chamber and many local businesses toward success. His leadership, grace, and kindness will long be remembered in this area and beyond. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Mr. Adams for this award and thank him for his contributions to our community.