Scott Tipton

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Doris Virginia Tracy, a longtime resident of La Veta, Colorado. Mrs. Tracy was a distinguished World War Two-era pilot and loving wife and mother. From the earliest days of her childhood in Missouri, Doris dreamed of learning to fly. She took her first ride in a bi-plane at the age of nine, and decided to become an ``aviatrix,'' as female pilots were then known. After entering college with her sister Bernice, Doris was only the second girl to sign up for Civilian Pilot Training. After a long wait, as only one woman was allowed in the program for every nine men, she earned her license. In order to continue flying and serve her country during World War Two, she applied with the Women's Airforce Service Pilots (WASP), who flew military aircraft in support of the Army Air Forces. After seven months of training, she flew engineering flight tests, co-piloted B-24s, and flew administrative flights in C-45s at bases in Texas, Ohio, Mississippi, and Wyoming. After the WASP program disbanded, Doris moved to La Veta with her family to start a store. It was there she met Julian Tracy at a local dance. They were married in 1946 and raised two daughters together, Glenna Lee and Julie. In addition to running the store, she was active with the PTA, the Francisco Fort Museum, and the Eastern Star, and enjoyed searching the Colorado hills for artifacts. In March 2010, Doris was in attendance here in Washington as the WASP were presented with the Congressional Gold Medal for their service to the nation. She passed away at the age of ninety on July 29, 2010, and was survived by her daughters, five grandchildren, and three great- grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize Doris Tracy. I rise today to salute this one-of-a-kind woman who is remembered for her smile, warmth, and patriotism.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Mr. Harvey Teyler, manager of the Alamosa Mosquito Control District. Mr. Teyler has been awarded the Special District Association of Colorado's 2011 Distinguished Manager of the Year Award. Presented in September at the SDA's annual conference, this honor recognizes managers who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, dedication and service to their district. The SDI is an association consisting of over a thousand members who promote the effective and economical operation of special districts in Colorado. These districts function as a form of local government that provides basic services and public needs. Mr. Teyler was recognized for increasing the Alamosa Mosquito Control District's quality of service under the motto ``Effective and Efficient.'' He is well respected for his leadership style, a commitment to thoroughly educating and training his employees, and for never asking them to do something that he has not done himself. Mr. Teyler leads the District's efforts to protect public health through the surveillance of mosquitoes, counting and identification, various methods of extermination, and West Nile Virus testing, all while adhering to environmentally sensitive practices. After humble origins in a shed with no utilities, the District now operates out of a fully furbished 5500 square foot facility. The citizens of Alamosa, known in the past to be overrun with mosquitoes, are certainly grateful for Mr. Teyler's dedication. Mr. Teyler is also an active member of the Alamosa community, where he has been a part of the Kiwanis Club, the Blue Peaks organization for the mentally challenged, and the Ranch Advisory Board. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize Harvey Teyler. I rise today to thank him for his public spirit and devotion to the health of Alamosa's Citizens.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Yesterday, legislation that I sponsored, along with Senator Michael Bennet from Colorado, passed the House floor. This bill for the Blue Star Mothers of America updated their congressional charter for the modern era. Mr. Speaker, I am privileged today, particularly on this day as we commemorate the attack on Pearl Harbor 70 years ago, to be able to rise to honor the Blue Star Mothers of America--the people, the women of America, who have been providing much needed assistance to our Nation's active duty servicemen and -women, veterans, and military families since 1942. Founded during the height of World War II, the Blue Star Mothers are a nonpartisan veterans' service organization, composed of mothers of current and former servicemembers. Today, over 5,000 dedicated women perform a wide variety of important volunteer services for our troops, providing transportation, supplies, food, and emotional support. More than 225 local chapters across the United States carry out the mission of supporting our troops, our veterans, and the families of our fallen heroes, as well as developing individual projects to assist the specific needs of the military in their own communities. Last month alone, thousands of care packages were sent to our troops overseas, and chaplains and commanders across the military received boxes of supplies and gifts to be able to be distributed to the comrades. The Blue Star Mothers were originally formed to bring their children home, to ensure that they were given the benefits that they deserved, and to provide them with a vast support network upon their arrival. The organization has since expanded to include other forms of assistance, including rehabilitation, family services, and civil defense. This was chartered by Congress in 1960. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to be able to recognize the Blue Star Mothers of America, and I rise today to thank these patriotic women for their commitment to serving the needs of America's military community and for making a difference in the lives of those who sacrifice the most. Several years ago, I had the opportunity to be at the graduation at the United States Air Force Academy. My son-in-law was graduating, and Secretary Gates delivered the commencement address. At that time, he noted that that freshman class was the first to enter the academy after 9/11, knowing full well that they would be putting themselves in harm's way. We have the finest volunteer military that the world has ever seen. May God continue to bless this country with such men and women who will always stand for freedom.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Navy Intelligence Specialist Seaman Anthony T. Schmalz, who serves our country with great honor and pride. Seaman Schmalz has been awarded the Joint Service Achievement Medal for his meritorious achievements during Operation Odyssey Dawn. Seaman Schmalz served as a United States Africa Command Targets Branch analyst from February to April of 2011, providing in-depth analysis of Libyan targets. During this time he provided over 25 percent of the electronic target folders written by the United States Africa Command and expertly managed the classification, downgrading, and dissemination of over 248 targets. Additionally, as a Remote Terminal Security Officer, Seaman Schmalz managed new accounts for 15 temporarily assigned duty personnel, allowing them to provide immediate support for the mission. Seaman Schmalz graduated from Montrose High School in Montrose, Colorado, in 2009 before enlisting in the United States Navy. For his critical contributions to the success of Operation Odyssey Dawn, he has been presented with the Joint Service Achievement Medal and is an example to the citizens of Colorado and to the United States of America. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize Intelligence Specialist Seaman Anthony T. Schmalz. His courage and selfless efforts on behalf of our country are worthy of our highest respect.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Mr. John Villyard, CEO of the San Luis Valley Rural Electric Cooperative. Mr. Villyard, who has served in this capacity since 2000, will be retiring at the end of this year. Mr. Villyard has overseen numerous efforts to improve the Cooperative's effectiveness. An accountant by trade, he utilized new technology, cost-based accounting practices, and the simplification of electric bills to increase efficiency. Under his leadership, improvements to infrastructure and building projects have reduced power outages and overtime costs by 34%. Furthermore, he has demonstrated environmental stewardship by negotiating the purchase of renewably produced power and developing an avian protection plan. As a child, Mr. Villyard watched his father, Ray, lead the Cooperative as it expanded from five to 34 employees. John has followed his example and has worked to build strong relationships with the board of directors, his employees, and the community at large, all the while treating the Cooperative as an extended family. In doing so, he has improved the safety program, initiated a lineworker scholarship, and established the SLVREC Energy Foundation. After graduating from the University of Colorado, John served honorably in the United States Air Force for eleven years. He then returned to the San Luis Valley and worked as an accountant, before being hired as the SLVREC's CFO in 1996. He is married to his high school sweetheart, Jowanda. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize Mr. John Villyard. I rise today to thank him for his commitment to serving the energy needs of the San Luis Valley with integrity and innovation.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Marine Corps Veteran Dr. Manert Kennedy. Dr. Kennedy was a professor at Adams State College and CU Boulder, where he taught Genetics and Biology until retiring in 1995. Dr. Kennedy is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps. His career in education and in the military afforded him the opportunity to conduct research in over 48 different countries, including making 27 separate trips to Korea where he first visited while serving in the Marines in 1951. Dr. Kennedy reflected upon his time in the military, including his participation in the battle of Chosin Reservoir, stating that it ``defined [him] as the person [he is] today.'' After his service, Dr. Kennedy attended Butler University where he played football, earned his bachelor's degree, and started a family. Dr. Kennedy is a shining example of the honor and devotion that so many of our uniformed servicemen and women exemplify. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize Dr. Manert Kennedy. His love for his country and sense of duty and responsibility is something we should all strive to replicate.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, generations of Americans from now will stand in judgment of the choices that we make today. In my district, as I've traveled and visited with people, from the farm and ranch community to small business owners to families around their kitchen tables, the message is clear: They're frustrated that Washington does not live under the same rules that they do. Those families gather each night to be able to balance their budget. Small businesses do it every day. Forty-nine of our 50 States balance their budget. And the question is always raised: Why doesn't Washington live under the same rules? We look at our European counterparts right now, Greece, Italy, struggling under their crushing debt. Will we follow that same path or will we pick a better way? Mr. Speaker, the time has come, the day has arrived, and the hour is now. We have an opportunity to stand up for the American people. The one thing that we can all understand as we debate the different sides of this issue is one important point that is not debatable--$15 trillion in debt. Our children, our grandchildren, those of us today, we need to be standing up for responsibility. This Congress, at this time, has that opportunity. The choice we make here today does not end the debate. We return to our States, to the people who sent us here to make that final choice. I think the answer will be clear. The time has come for this Congress to embrace a balanced budget, to stand up and do what every American does every day. We need to pass this bill, and we need to pass it now.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Conejos County, Colorado for its 150th Birthday. On November 1, 1861, the Colorado legislature created 17 founding counties, of which Conejos was one. At the time, Conejos was named Guadalupe County, but its name was changed shortly thereafter. The area that is now Conejos County was originally settled in the 1850's, primarily by Spanish speaking immigrants from New Mexico. The first village settled was the town of Conejos where Our Lady of Guadalupe, the first church to be built in Colorado, was constructed. This area, still part of the New Mexico territory, would not become part of Colorado for another 10 years. After the county was officially established in 1861, it incorporated most of the southwestern portion of Colorado until it was broken apart and redistributed in 1874. It was at this time that Hinsdale, La Plata and Rio Grande Counties were established. Today, Conejos County is one of the primary locations for agriculture in Colorado, with agribusiness comprising twenty-five percent of Conejos County employment. Agriculture not only drives Conejos County's economy, but it also contributes to the rich culture and heritage of the community. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize Conejos County for its 150th Birthday. The county's history and culture have contributed greatly to the rich heritage of the state of Colorado.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. I thank the gentleman for yielding. We talk about unemployment in this country--over 8 percent, 9.1 percent nationally. Let me tell you the story in my district in Colorado, the two largest communities: 10.7 percent unemployment in Pueblo, Colorado; 10.5 percent in Grand Junction, Colorado. I have 29 counties in Colorado. We have one county that has higher than 17 percent unemployment. There's a lot of discussion on this floor in Washington, DC, about jobs and the economy, and it's well placed. We talked about businesses. But what we often forget to remember is that these businesses are made up of moms and dads, grandparents, people with hopes, with dreams for a better future. These are the employers, the people who make America work, working together in business. Let me tell you a story about a man named Jim Bartmus in Pueblo, Colorado. Just about a month ago, Mr. Bartmus, who was a contractor, was faced with a real dilemma. Just a few years ago he qualified under the President's definition as wealthy. A small contractor. That wealth he reinvested back into his business to try and grow it, to try and create more jobs in this country. Mr. Bartmus made that investment. He paid down his line of credit to zero. When he went to the bank to re-up that line of credit to be able to keep that business going, to keep his 24 core employees at work, he discovered that, because of regulations, because of Dodd-Frank, that he couldn't get that line of credit re-upped once again. As a result, Mr. Bartmus lined up his equipment and auctioned it off. When you talk to a grizzled contractor, and you hear his voice crack as he has to describe how he laid off 24 people that we call employees--and he called family, you know this hits America at home. As I travel throughout my district, as I know my colleagues travel throughout the rest of the country, we hear the same lament from small business, from the number 1 job creators in this country. They're overregulated. They're worried about that pile of regulations that we see dropped upon the desk on a weekly basis. Being able to have access to capital. What is that tax rate going to actually be? What is the President's health care plan actually going to cost? Those are the questions that they raise and why they are afraid to invest. If we will unleash American entrepreneuralism once again, if we will create that certainty for Americans to do what we do better than any people on the face of the Earth--that's to create, to innovate, to build--we can get this American economy moving. My colleague from Colorado and I have discussed oftentimes there's something very unique about being an American. The very blood that courses through our veins is infused with something that people from around the world simply can't understand. We don't look for government to be the answer; we don't look for a government program. We want the freedom and the ability to be able to build our own future. Government should not be a stumbling block to that success, but a stepping stone. And in this case, it means the government should get out of American businesses' way, the American employees' way, and let us do what we do best: get America back to work.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, it is a great privilege to rise in commendation of Sgt. Robert B. Cowdrey who served our country with great honor and pride. Sgt. Cowdrey gave his life for our country on October 13, while attempting a helicopter rescue of his fellow soldiers under fire. Sgt. Cowdrey was raised in La Junta, Colorado. He graduated from La Junta High School in 1990. He was a devoted outdoorsman, who enjoyed bow hunting. Cowdrey enlisted in the Army in 2003 and was serving his third tour of duty in Afghanistan at the time of his death. Sgt. Cowdrey's duties included flying into active combat zones to deliver medical assistance and rescue troops while under fire. He was highly decorated for his heroic service, earning the Bronze Star and two army commendations for valor. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Sgt. Cowdrey, a selfless American hero whose bravery and sacrifice are examples of what makes this country great. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Jill, their three sons, Justin, Jacob and Nathan, and the entire Cowdrey family.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, it is a great privilege to rise in commendation of Sergeant Robert B. Cowdrey, who served our country with great honor and pride. Sergeant Cowdrey gave his life for our country on October 13 while attempting a helicopter rescue of his fellow soldiers under fire. Sergeant Cowdrey was raised in La Junta, Colorado. He graduated from La Junta High School in 1990. He was a devoted outdoorsman and family man who enjoyed bow hunting. Cowdrey enlisted in the Army in 2003 and was serving his third tour of duty in Afghanistan at the time of his death. Sergeant Cowdrey's duties included flying into active combat zones to deliver medical assistance and rescue troops while under fire. He was highly decorated for his heroic service, earning the Bronze Star and two Army commendations for valor. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Sergeant Cowdrey, a selfless American hero whose bravery and sacrifice for our country are examples of what makes this country great. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Jill, and their three sons, Justin, Jacob, and Nathan, and the entire Cowdrey family.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Chief Jack House. Chief House was the last hereditary chief of the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe (Weeminuche Band), and the first to lead through the transition from life in the mountains and plains to life on the reservation. Chief House was born in Mancos Canyon in 1889 on the reservation designated as home for the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe. He had the traditional long braids, carried himself tall, and photographs of him captured the proud, determined attitude that was evidenced in his lifelong struggles for the cause of his people. He was instrumental in the establishment of the tribal council, the formation of the Ute Mountain Tribal Office and the blueprints for the tribal constitution. In his fight for the rights of his people, Chief Jack House brought suit against the U.S. Government over the San Juan Mining District, for which the Indians had been paid 13 cents per acre in 1873. Fearing the killing of livestock and the fencing of the reservation, he fought the building of roads through the reservation as well as advocated for water and hunting rights. He travelled many times to Washington, D.C. and in his more than 30 years of leadership, Chief Jack House worked to secure essential water rights, lobbied for the tribe's causes, and fought for the right of self-determination for his people. When Chief Jack House died in 1971, nearly a thousand people, both whites and Indians, paid their respects and homage to his inspired leadership. After his death, the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe completed both the Dolores Water Project and Animas La Plata Water Project which accomplished his dream that his community would someday see running water in their homes. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize Chief Jack House. In the words of the recent passed tribal leader and grandson of Chief Jack House, Ernest House, Sr., ``He laid the foundation for the tribe and created the path followed today.''

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Elliott Farms, LLC of Monte Vista, Colorado. In 1907, the Sanderson family of Hamilton, Missouri moved west and settled in Monte Vista. In 1908, the family acquired a 160-acre farm. The property was passed down through the generations that followed and grew in size. The farm saw many years of fruitful potato crops that brought the family and the valley a great deal of prosperity. Today, the farm is operated in four sections and still makes use of the 1916 house and 1930s garage and barn. Elliott Farms, LLC was recognized by the Colorado Historical Society at the 139th Colorado State Fair. Elliott Farms, LLC is one of eighteen farms honored by the Centennial Farms Program for its rich history, tradition, and contributions to the State of Colorado over the past century. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize Elliott Farms LLC. Its agricultural contributions to the State of Colorado, as well as its valuable historical and cultural traditions, have helped make Colorado a leader in agricultural production.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Valentine Ranch of Aguilar, Colorado. The ranch was founded in 1908 by Italian immigrant Giovanni Leopoldo Valentini. Valentini was born in Austria in 1869 and immigrated to the United States in 1887, acquiring work at the Engleville Mine in Colorado. Soon thereafter, he changed his name to John Lee Valentine. He married Rachale Conter and the couple had six children. Over the years, John worked many unique jobs, including being a baker and a saloon keeper. In 1907, he purchased a ranch in Los Animas County. John and his wife lived happily the rest of their lives at the ranch. After John's passing in 1947 and Rachale's in 1950, Gus and June Valentine inherited the ranch and also raised children of their own. Gus passed away in 1987, but June still resides at the ranch with her son Dan and his wife Sandi. The family continues to enjoy sustained success with their crops and cattle. The Centennial Farms Program has chosen the Valentine Ranch as one of this year's honorees. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize the Valentine Ranch today on the floor of the House. The ranch is a symbol of the entrepreneurial spirit our Nation has so long enjoyed and exemplified.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the McLain Ranch of Parlin, Colorado. McLain Ranch was settled by John Jay McLain and his wife Olive Colter in 1908. John Jay settled in Cripple Creek in the late 1800's. A teamster at the time, John mined and conserved his money with the ultimate aspiration to become a rancher. In the early 1900s, John and his wife moved to Ohio City where he was Superintendent of the Raymond mine. In his free time and as part of his money-saving practices, John panned gold out of the nearby creek. Finally, in 1908, John had saved enough money to purchase his ranch in Gunnison County. He and his wife saw many years of healthy crops, raising oats, potatoes, horses, chickens, hogs, sheep, and cattle. The couple also raised five children, one of which, Jack, would take over the farm with his wife Louise in 1952. In 1988, Jack and Louise's son David purchased the farm and ever since, he and his wife Ladonna have continued to raise cattle as well as grass pasture and hay. The McLain Ranch is one of several farms in Colorado that have contributed greatly to our agricultural success over the past century. The Centennial Farms Program is honoring the McLain Ranch, along with seventeen other farms, for its great role in making the State of Colorado the agricultural powerhouse it is today. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize the McLain Ranch today on the floor of the House. The ranch is a symbol of the entrepreneurial spirit our Nation has so long enjoyed and exemplified.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Leroux Ranch of Radium, Colorado. Leroux Ranch was settled in 1905 by cowboy and miner Owen F. Leroux at the suggestion of John Winslow, Owen's future father- in-law. Owen married Ida Winslow, settled down, and started a family. The Leroux estate thrived for many years and after Owen's death, his family began purchasing land from homesteaders and the farm operated as Leroux Cattle Company. In 1973, part of the farm was sold off, but the original homestead remained. In 2008, the final interest in the farm was purchased by descendants of Owen and Ida Leroux and today raises Angus and Hereford cattle. The Division of Wildlife has placed a conservation easement on the property in an attempt to establish a habitat for big game. The Leroux Farm is another fine example of the rich agricultural heritage of the State of Colorado. The Centennial Farms Program is honoring the Leroux Farm for its longevity and long-time cultural value. It is truly a pleasure to represent a district of a state with such a fantastic display of entrepreneurial spirit. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize Leroux Farm today on the floor of the House. The farm is truly a valuable historic and cultural asset of the State of Colorado.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Catherine Fox, a science teacher at Mancos High School in Mancos, Colorado. Ms. Fox was chosen to participate in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Teachers at Sea Program for 2011. Ms. Fox was accepted into the program along with 32 other teachers out of a pool of over 250 applicants. The Teachers At Sea Program was established in 1990 and since then has given over 500 teachers from across the country the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with science at sea. Ms. Fox spent 18 days at sea aboard the NOAA Ship Oscar Dyson in the Gulf of Alaska where she aided scientists in the conducting of walleye pollock surveys. Through this program, Ms. Fox was able to bring home experience and knowledge that she could pass along to her science students. Ms. Fox was quoted in an associated press release saying, ``Students in Mancos are far from the ocean, but this experience has allowed me to bring the ocean to them.'' The Teachers at Sea Program has allowed educators like Ms. Catherine Fox to grow their curricula and provide more hands-on knowledge for their students. Mr. Speaker, it is my sincerest pleasure to recognize Ms. Catherine Fox. Her dedication to her profession has helped improve our educational system and ensure that our students are receiving the best education available to them. I rise today to thank Ms. Fox for her commitment to learning and congratulate her on her acceptance into the 2011 Teachers at Sea Program.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Walker Family Ranch of Westcliffe, Colorado. George Walker purchased a 240-acre piece of property in Custer Country and along with his wife and daughter, began a ranching company. George's daughter Hazel soon married Willard Walker and in 1939, George passed the farm property onto his daughter and son-in-law. The couple continued the Walker ranching practice and expanded the property to 882 acres. The ranch functioned year-round as a cattle ranch. After Willard Walker's passing in 1968, Hazel and her family maintained the ranch and in 1971, formed the W.A.W. Cattle Ranch, Inc. Today, the W.A.W. is an active cattle ranch in the Wet Mountain Valley area. The Walker Family Ranch has been chosen by the Centennial Farms Program as one of its eighteen 2011 honorees. The program honors farms that have long contributed to the agricultural success and foundation of the State of Colorado. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize the Walker Family Ranch. The ranch is a valuable cultural and historic asset to Colorado and our state is truly blessed to have such a vibrant presence of American entrepreneurial spirit.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Ron Allerd, a Colorado businessman who transformed Telluride, Colorado into one of the nation's most treasured, world-class ski resorts. Because of his vision and determination, Mr. Allerd will officially be inducted into the Colorado Ski Hall of Fame on November 2, 2011. Mr. Allerd first envisioned what the town of Telluride could become after skiing with Telluride native, Johnnie Stevens. In 1978, Mr. Allred and his business partner, Jim Wells, purchased the Telluride Ski Company, a small company that operated only a few lifts and one day resort. Their vision slowly became a reality in the community, but on more than one occasion its existence was threatened. After tireless effort and determination, Mr. Allred worked with various stakeholders and the community to bring amenities to the area, such as an airport, a golf course and a gondola transportation system. Today, Telluride is an all-season resort that offers unique character to a once dying mining town. Networks of lifts now cover Telluride and its adjoining town, Mountain Village, bringing tourists from around the world to visit this vibrant and active Colorado community. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize Mr. Ron Allerd. His legacy and vision is one that will affect Coloradans and Americans for many years to come.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Joseph Anthony Fortino, who was born and raised in Pueblo, Colorado. During his life Mr. Fortino was both a successful businessman and a dedicated civil servant. Early in life Mr. Fortino worked for his family grocery store. After graduating high school he served in World War II in the United States Coast Guard. After the war, he returned to Pueblo and his family grocery business with his father before joining Jackson Chevrolet as a salesman, and working his way up to partner. He won the Time Magazine Quality Dealer Award in Colorado for his hard work and dedication to the community. Mr. Fortino was truly a leader and was involved on several boards and committees in Pueblo, including the Colorado Transportation Commission, on which he was the longest serving member. He was the president of the Pueblo Community College Foundation, through which he was elected to the Pueblo Hall of Fame for his civic and business activities. On October 4, 2011 Mr. Fortino passed away at the age of 89. I have no doubt that his business and civic legacy will have a lasting effect on the people of Colorado for many years to come.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Pamela S. Shockley-Zalabak, Chancellor of the University of Colorado-Colorado Springs. Since 2001, Dr. Shockley-Zalabak has worked to improve the educational system in the State of Colorado in an attempt to enhance student success and graduation rates. In the years ahead, jobs in the United States will be pursuing specialized workers who are educationally qualified and focused in a particular area of expertise. The University of Colorado, under Dr. Shockley-Zalabak's leadership, has concentrated its efforts on improving the retention and graduation of ethnic minority students. UCCS has also worked to implement programs to advance interest in more specialized careers, including areas such as science, technology, engineering and math. Last week, Dr. Shockley-Zalabak participated in a roundtable at the White House that discussed the impact of community colleges throughout the nation. This roundtable was a part of the White House's highlights of ``Champions of Change'' who are making a notable impression in their communities. The White House also recognized Dr. Shockley-Zalabak and UCCS for the implementation of the Southern Colorado Educational Consortium. This program allows UCCS to work with other two- and four-year colleges in the area to foster educational opportunities and degree programs. This rural part of Colorado has historically seen low educational achievement in years past. However, under the leadership of Dr. Shockley-Zalabak and the new programs she has helped create, I am confident the newfound success experienced by UCCS will continue to grow. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize Dr. Pamela Shockley-Zalabak for her incredible accomplishments and steadfast dedication to the Colorado Educational System. She is truly making a difference in equipping America's youth with the tools, resources and education necessary to pursue a sustainable career and to determine their own destiny.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Colonel John B. Haseman of the United States Army. I received a letter from the U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency informing me that Col. Haseman is to be a 2011 inductee into the Defense Attache System, DAS, Hall of Fame. As a member of the U.S. Country Team, Mr. Haseman served as a military adviser to the ambassador and represented the Defense Department leadership to the ambassador's host nation. Established in 1988, the Attache Hall of Fame serves to honor DAS personnel who have long served our nation with the prowess and distinction befitting a member of the U.S. Military. Col. Haseman served the United States in Indonesia from 1982 to 1985, and again from 1990 to 1994. He also served in Burma from 1987-1990. While operating in Indonesia, Col. Haseman provided the Department of Defense with substantial information regarding numerous human rights violations. This vital information greatly influenced the decision making process concerning the policy that was to be implemented towards that country. Col. Haseman also functioned to cultivate healthy relationships with allied nations and to improve their military defense capabilities. Col. Haseman first joined the US Army in 1963 from the University of Missouri Reserve Officer Training Corps. Throughout his career, having made the seven Army values a part of his daily life, Col. Haseman served our country with dignity and honor. Mr. Speaker, it is my sincerest pleasure to recognize Col. John Haseman, a native of Grand Junction, Colorado. The United States and the State of Colorado owe him our undying gratitude for his selfless service over the past 48 years. I thank him very much and wish him the best of luck in all his future endeavors.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Joe Blake, former Chancellor of the Colorado State University System. Since May of 2009, his leadership and influence as the first sole chancellor of the CSU System has been felt far and wide within the state of Colorado. Before beginning his time with CSU, Mr. Blake served as the President and CEO of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce for nearly a decade. His experience with the Chamber coupled with his strong background in job creation played a pivotal role in his ability to lead CSU through tough financial times. Under the leadership of Mr. Blake, CSU was able to accomplish many important tasks, including the establishment of a stand-alone chancellor operation, the development of its first strategic plan, and the positioning of CSU Global as a viable and integral part of the system. CSU also launched the Commitment to Colorado, a scholarship program that ensures qualified students of all income levels have the opportunity to attend an institution of higher education. In a time where jobs are becoming scarce, nothing is more important than ensuring the young workforce has the experience, the resources, and the expertise to obtain a sustainable occupation. Through his dedication and commitment to Colorado's system of higher learning, Mr. Blake has furthered America's objective of bettering its educational system. Mr. Blake has referred to his time as chancellor as having been ``the highlight of [his] career.'' However, Mr. Blake's time with CSU has not yet reached its end. While he is stepping down as chancellor, he will remain with the University to promote donor and alumni relations. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize Mr. Joe Blake. His leadership and dedication to CSU has benefited thousands of students and families and I thank him for all he has done for the state of Colorado.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Herbert F. Koether for his service to the state of Colorado, his active pursuit of conservative ideals, and his love for serving others. Before World War II, Mr. Koether served on the war production board in Washington, D.C., later joining the United States Air Force and attaining the rank of 2nd Lieutenant. In 1952, Mr. Koether arrived in Denver, Colorado, actively working in the Colorado political arena for conservative causes. During Senator Barry Goldwater's 1964 presidential campaign, Mr. Koether served as the chair of the Colorado Goldwater effort, tirelessly promoting the ideals Senator Goldwater represented. In 1989, he also helped Gale Norton run her campaign for Colorado's Attorney General. Mr. Koether not only worked on campaigns and in politics, he also devoted himself to public service in the Denver area, offering his services to various public boards to better the lives of Coloradans. In addition to serving on the Kent Denver school boards, Mr. Koether spent 54 years of his life on the advisory board of the Salvation Army. Mr. Koether passed away on Sept. 16, 2011 among his family members and friends who were coming together to celebrate his 98th birthday. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize Mr. Herbert F. Koether. The ideals he devoted himself to and his life of public service tangibly affected Coloradans and Americans for the better, and he will be greatly missed by us all.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the former Ute Mountain Ute Tribal leader from the Weeminuche Tribe, Ernest House Sr. Over the past 30 years, his influence, dedication and leadership to the Ute Mountain tribe has grown the tribe's influence in the state of Colorado and in the United States. Mr. House is the grandson of the Ute Mountain Ute tribe's last hereditary Chief, Chief Jack House. In the last years of Chief Jack House's life, Mr. Ernest House Sr. cared for him, learning much about the tribe's history and potential for future plans. Mr. House was first elected to the Ute Mountain Tribal Council in 1979. Three years later, Mr. House became chairman for the first time, beginning the first of his four nonconsecutive four-year terms as chairman for the Ute Mountain Tribe--his last term ending in 2010. As chairman, Mr. House helped the Ute Tribe accomplish several projects that widened the tribe's economic and natural resource development. Between 1986 and 1988, Mr. House worked to complete two major water compacts to provide water throughout the Ute territories. In addition, Mr. House oversaw several building projects, including a tribal health center and casino. In his last term as chairman, Mr. House Sr. focused primarily on tribal safety, widening the Tribe's police force from two officers to more than 12 officers. On Saturday, Sept. 17, 2011, Mr. House was tragically taken from us after a motorcycle accident outside of Cortez, Colorado. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize Mr. Ernest House Sr. His leadership and dedication to the Ute Tribe has benefited thousands, and he will be greatly missed by the Ute Tribe and the state of Colorado.