Brittany Pettersen

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.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Rebecca Sawyer Smith of Lakewood, Colorado for her 38 years of service within the Department of Veterans Affairs and congratulate her on her retirement. Rebecca began her federal government career as a graduate student at The George Washington University in Washington, D.C., when she joined the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Over the course of nearly four decades, she served in a variety of roles within the VA, including Public Affairs Officer, Coach, and member of the Public Contact Team. Her career took her to communities on both coasts and throughout the central United States before concluding in Lakewood, Colorado, where she retired at the end of 2025. Throughout her distinguished career, Rebecca dedicated herself to serving those who have served our country. She worked tirelessly to ensure veterans received the benefits and services they earned, providing both in-person and virtual benefits counseling. She also partnered closely with veteran service organizations and nonprofit groups to help veterans navigate and access the support available to them. Even in retirement, Rebecca continues her commitment to veterans in her community by volunteering with arts organizations that offer programs for veterans, further demonstrating her lifelong devotion to public service. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to thank Rebecca Sawyer Smith for her 38 years of service with the VA and to congratulate her on her retirement.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I missed the vote series on February 9, 2026. Had I been present, I would have voted: YEA on Roll Call No. 58, final passage of H.R. 1531, PROTECT Taiwan Act; and YEA on Roll Call No. 57, final passage of H.R. 6644, Housing for the 21st Century Act.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I missed one vote on January 13, 2026. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 23, final passage of H.R. 4593, SHOWER Act.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I missed three votes on January 12, 2026. Had I been present, I would have voted: YEA on Roll Call No. 15, final passage of H.R. 6504, Haiti Economic Lift Program Extension Act; YEA on Roll Call No. 14, final passage of H.R. 6500, AGOA Extension Act; and YEA on Roll Call No. 13, final passage of H.R. 2683, Remote Access Security Act.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Cub Scout Pack 545 of Broomfield on their 25th anniversary. Pack 545 has helped shape the lives of many young people in Broomfield through programming focused on leadership, community engagement, and appreciation for the outdoors. Their co-ed pack is one of the largest in the Denver Metropolitan Area, averaging 90 scouts every year, and has included an impressive 30 former members who have gone on to achieve the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout. Whether visiting the police and fire departments in the Broomfield Community or designing model rockets and cars for their annual Pinewood Derby competition, for 25 years, Pack 545 has instilled both a love of play and a sense of responsibility in its members. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Cub Scout Pack 545 for its remarkable 25 years of service in our community and thank them for their work.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Joe Hengstler, the Executive Director of Olde Town Arvada Business Improvement District, who sadly passed away on September 23, 2025 after his battle with esophageal cancer. Joe was affectionately known as ``The Mayor of Olde Town.'' He was instrumental in establishing the heart and soul of Arvada's most iconic and historic destination. Friends, family, and community members knew Joe as a true leader who was always ready to pick up a shovel and get to work to put his projects into action. Joe cultivated a thriving hub for local businesses. During the COVID- 19 pandemic, Joe transformed Olde Town to ensure that business owners had the tools and environment to persevere through economic hardship. Olde Town innovated and implemented new physical distancing rules and created unique events to bring the community to Olde Town. The community showed up for the small businesses while still prioritizing safety. This innovation and our community's support for small businesses had a lasting impact as Olde Town continues to thrive. Joe will be remembered for his enthusiasm, ambition, and optimism. He is survived by his wife, Megan, their daughter Juniper, his mother Camilla Hengstler, his sister Erika Huber, and his brother Bob Hengstler. I know I join our community in my hope that Joe's loved ones continue to find comfort in the stories that friends and family are sharing. He undoubtedly had an impact on those around him, and in that way, he'll continue to live on with us.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize retired firefighter Kevin Jacovetta, who passed away on September 19, 2025 from cancer. Kevin, or ``KJ'', served Arvada Fire for over 33 years. He joined as a volunteer in 1988, was hired as a full-time firefighter in 1999, and held the roles of firefighter/EMT, engineer, and acting officer throughout his career. Kevin's death has been designated as a Line of Duty Death--Illness (LODD-I), connected to severe burns that he sustained in 2011 while rescuing a fellow firefighter during a devastating house fire. His bravery that day earned him the Medal of Valor. While he courageously recovered and returned to duty, complications from his injuries eventually led to his retirement in 2021 and a cancer diagnosis in 2023. Kevin's passing is a solemn reminder of the risks our firefighters ensure to keep our friends, family, and neighbors safe. As a firefighter, husband, and father, Kevin's selflessness carried through every aspect of his life. His legacy of kindness, dedication, and service to our community will not be forgotten. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, I am honored to recognize firefighter Kevin Jacovetta's legacy and extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the entire Arvada Fire Department.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Colorado State Representative Shannon Bird for her public service. Throughout her time in the legislature, Representative Bird has worked tirelessly to fight for all individuals. She served on the Joint Budget Committee for 6 years, serving as vice chair and later chairwoman, ensuring that corporate loopholes were closed while still protecting small businesses. Representative Bird has been a champion for affordable housing, passing legislation to lower the cost of housing and offer more Coloradans the ability to own a home. Though Representative Bird and I held different positions during my time in the State Legislature, we collaborated to cut through the red tape surrounding professional licensing and keep Colorado one of the best places to work. She is my colleague, my friend, a mother, and a steadfast advocate for her community. Representative Bird has been serving the Westminster community for decades, starting as a city council member, serving as board chair of the Five Star Education Foundation, and as citizen chair for a school district's bond campaign. Representative Bird spent countless hours volunteering in students' classrooms, which led to her co-founding the Adams 12 Community Action Network, dedicated to empowering students by providing equal learning opportunities at local schools. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to thank Representative Bird for her dedication to serving her community. I wish Shannon and her family all the best on their next endeavor.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and applaud Amy Zhang of Morrison, Colorado, for winning Best in Show in the 2025 Congressional App Challenge. Amy built EnAct: AI Guides, Vision-Impaired Act, an assistive technology app for seeing impaired individuals that describes the user's environment, helping them avoid pathway collisions. Her application uses multiple AI platforms, and was inspired in part by Amy's experience with a friend who is seeing impaired. This accomplishment is an impressive example of Amy's determination, hard work, and advanced STEM knowledge base. I congratulate Amy Zhang for her success in the Congressional App Challenge. I am certain she will continue to show the same dedication and strength of character in all her future endeavors. I am excited to see all she will accomplish.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and applaud Aariv Arora of Broomfield, Colorado, for earning the Rookie of the Year Award in the 2025 Congressional App Challenge. Aariv built an interactive app called WayBuddy, a community safety app that allows students to report roadway hazards for fellow pedestrians and bicyclists on a shared map. This accomplishment is an example of Aariv's determination, hard work, and impressive knowledge base in the STEM field. I congratulate Aariv Arora for his success in the Congressional App Challenge. I am certain he will continue to show the same dedication and strength of character in all his future endeavors. I am excited to see all he will accomplish.