Scott Tipton

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Hillary Morris, Diana Kelly and Brittany Harlan for their work to prevent drinking and drug use in Colorado schools. These three women are responsible for programs designed to teach local students about the dangers of substance abuse. Their efforts have recently been honored by the Rio Grande Prevention Partners, a group that works towards spreading information about the negative effects of alcohol and drugs. Ms. Harlan has been the student intern for the group since June of 2009. She was instrumental in creating the Youth Engagement Plan while also participating in a number of other extracurricular activities. Ms. Kelly is the Creede Middle and High School sponsor for Students Against Destructive Decisions, a national group with similar aspirations to that of the RGPP. She helped guide the group's local efforts in Colorado over the last year. Ms. Morris, a student of Creede High School, is also very involved with SADD. She has organized events and activities for the group this past year. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize these three women for their work in preventing drug and alcohol use among Colorado students. The initiative they have taken in their communities is exemplary and I have no doubt they will continue to be leaders in preventing substance abuse.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ted Strickland, one of Colorado's most prominent statesmen. Mr. Strickland, originally of Austin, Texas, was a Colorado state Representative, Senator and Lieutenant Governor in a political career that lasted for well over two decades. His lengthy tenure in public office is a testament to his adoration for Colorado and desire to make it the wonderful state that it is today. Though Mr. Strickland did not grow up in Colorado, it did not take long for him to make it his permanent home. After working for an oil well information firm following college in Oklahoma, he decided to run for a position in the state legislature. He was a popular candidate and rose quickly within the Republican Party. He held numerous leadership positions, including his service as Senate President for nine years. While in office his priority was to strengthen the state economy by advancing conservative economic principles. He fought for lower taxes, a balanced budget, and less government spending. His popularity as a state senator led to his nomination as Lieutenant Governor under John David Vanderhoof. As the state's 39th Lieutenant Governor, he was instrumental in the success of Governor Vanderhoof's administration. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize Ted Strickland today. His impact can still be felt in Colorado and his devotion to the state is truly exemplary.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, it brings me great joy to stand and pay tribute to Doris and Melvin Porth of Westcliffe, Colorado. The Porths have shown endless loyalty and devotion to Custer Country, the state of Colorado, and the Republican Party. Originally from Kansas, Mr. and Mrs. Porth quickly became true Coloradans upon arriving in the Centennial State. Both Mr. and Mrs. Porth have been staples in local and state politics for decades, and their service has not gone unnoticed. Doris Porth was the Custer Country Treasurer for 32 years, and had a long tenure as the Republican Party Treasurer in Custer County as well. For his part, Melvin Porth was the Republican Party Chairman for two decades, he worked tirelessly in the school district for 18 years, and he owned and operated an equipment rental business. Mr. and Mrs. Porth have also been active members of the Custer County Chamber of Commerce. The Porth's civic endeavors continue as leading contributors to their historical railroad district, which is a vibrant and important part of Westcliffe's frontier history. The community outreach of Mr. and Mrs. Porth continues due in part to their active faith life as leaders within their church. Mr. Speaker, Doris and Melvin Porth represent the finest our state has to offer in terms of civic responsibility and patriotism. The Porths have given decades of their time to the community and their political party for the benefit of others. Mr. and Mrs. Porth are a shining example of selflessness, and it has been an honor to rise and pay tribute to these wonderful people.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Tyler Martinez of Alamosa, Colorado. Mr. Martinez earned the Youth of the Year award at the Boys and Girls Club of the San Luis Valley for the second year in a row. It is rare to find a youth like Mr. Martinez who is so involved in helping less fortunate kids. The Alamosa High Junior lends his effort and time to the Boys and Girls Club, though. The fact that he was selected for the honor two consecutive years is a testament to his dedication. As a student and player on the Alamosa High basketball team, it is even more impressive that Mr. Martinez finds so much time to volunteer. Mr. Martinez will once again enter the statewide competition for Colorado Youth of the Year. He joins many deserving honorees across the state and will certainly be a serious contender. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize Tyler Martinez, today, and I have no doubt this young man will continue to be a leader in his community.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Chief Warrant Officer Stephen F. Mestas of Pueblo, Colorado. Officer Mestas is a helicopter combat pilot who just finished his second tour of duty in Afghanistan, and his fifth tour overall. His return is a reminder of the sacrifice our soldiers and their families make to ensure our freedoms. Officer Mestas and his unit, Alpha Troop 2-17 Cavalry, were recently deployed into some of the most dangerous territory in the world. They put their lives in danger every day so that we may live safely and freely in America. The fact that officer Mestas has been deployed five times in that pursuit is both humbling and inspiring. We are truly indebted to these brave men. I also feel profound respect for the wives, children, parents and siblings of our American soldiers. They are put through incredible difficulties and we owe them the same gratitude. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize Stephen Mestas, today. He and his family keep this country strong, along with all of the other men and women we charge with protecting the United States of America.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize James Vasquez and Chris Weaver for their accomplishments at Pueblo Community College. Both were awarded Rising Star Awards, which are given to students demonstrating leadership and academic excellence. Mr. Vasquez is president of the Pueblo Community College associated student government, and participates in a number of other extracurricular activities. Most notably, he led the school's Thanksgiving food drive, which helped 206 students in need. During that semester he also maintained a 3.2 GPA as a single parent. Mr. Weaver also held an exemplary GPA and served as vice-president of the associated student government, under Mr. Vasquez. He also represents the school government at the State Student Advisory Council and was named the board's legislative liaison to the Colorado Commission on Higher Education. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize James Vasquez and Chris Weaver for their accomplishments in higher education. There is no doubt they will continue to be leaders in their communities.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Edi Sheldon of Walsenburg, Colorado. Ms. Sheldon worked for several years in the Huerfano County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Committee before serving as mayor of Walsenburg. Ms. Sheldon grew up in the small town of Walsenburg before moving to Alamosa with her husband, Frank. In Alamosa, she worked on the local newspaper that her husband published. After his death, she spent a number of years publishing her own magazine in Denver. She eventually returned to Walsenburg and became very active in the local government. She worked as the secretary for the Huerfano County Chamber of Commerce. Ms. Sheldon also sat on the local hospital board for two years. In 2005 she won her mayoral bid in the small town, and worked tirelessly advancing Walsenburg's economic interests and the prominence of her city. The commitment she had to building her community through public service is inspiring. Mr. Speaker, it is a pleasure to recognize Edi Sheldon today. Her public service was exemplary and her presence can still be felt in the community.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, it is important for me to stand in tribute and praise the ongoing educational career of Anna Mae Rael-Lindsay. Mrs. Rael-Lindsay continues to enlighten and enrich the lives of others through her relentless dedication to her students, Trinidad State Junior College, and southern Colorado. Anna Mae Rael-Lindsay was born and raised in the San Luis Valley, and her large tightly knit family put a premium on education and hard work. After graduating from Adams State College, Mrs. Rael-Lindsay started in Rocky Ford Public Schools, and never looked back from there. Never losing sight of her roots, it was not long before Mrs. Rael-Lindsay was back in the San Luis Valley, teaching at the Trinidad State Junior College's Alamosa Campus. Anna Mae Real-Lindsay is now the director of the learning resource center at TSJC's Alamosa Campus, which specializes in adult basic education, general education development tests, and English as a second language classes. This allows her the chance to stress the importance of a complete education to countless students who might not otherwise understand all the opportunities that a degree provides. For her decades of hard work, Anna Mae Rael-Lindsay has rightfully earned the honor of Trinidad State's Employee of the Year. Mr. Speaker, Mrs. Rael-Lindsay is an inspirational educator who has dedicated her professional life to improving the lives of those around her, and the livelihood of her community. It has been an honor to rise in tribute to the scholarly career of Anna Mae Rael-Lindsay.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ed Sajbel of Pueblo, Colorado. Mr. Sajbel is an integral part of Pueblo's art community and will showcase his work in an ``introspective Retrospective'' display this spring. Though the display is a testament to Mr. Sajbel's artistic abilities, his greatest success has been nurturing a strong artistic community in Pueblo and the aspiring artists of the area. From an early age, Mr. Sajbel loved to draw, a hobby that quickly earned him recognition. After a brief furlough in the U.S. Coast Guard, he returned to Pueblo to attend Pueblo Community College. He eventually transferred to the University of Northern Colorado to become a teacher, which allowed him to pursue his career in art while also guiding youngsters with a similar passion. Mr. Sajbel went on to teach at Colorado State University-Pueblo for over thirty years. His success can be measured by the exponential growth of Pueblo's artistic community. Mr. Sajbel did not limit his guidance only to the classroom. He created and served on a number of boards and councils in Pueblo meant to foster the growth of the arts, including the Colorado Arts and Humanities Council. He also developed grants for artists in the area and put on shows featuring their work. Mr. Speaker, the impact that Ed Sajbel has had on the arts in his community is profound and it is an honor to recognize him today. There is no doubt that he will continue to inspire young artists while he pursues his own creative passion.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, it is a true honor for me to rise and pay tribute to the fraternal spirit and charitable efforts that have been exemplified by the Aspen Volunteer Fire Department. The tragedy that befell our country on September 11, 2001, was met with a resounding and galvanizing response from all citizens of the United States. The members of the Aspen Volunteer Fire Department were especially moved to help their brothers from the Fire Department of New York in any way they could. In the days following the September 11th attacks, the Aspen Volunteer Fire Department went to all the local businesses with a fireman's helmet in hand, asking for donations to provide assistance for the Fire Department of New York. Through the efforts of the Aspen Volunteer Fire Fighters over $110,000 was raised in a span of less than ten days. To raise that amount of money in such a short amount of time is remarkable, but the Aspen Volunteer Fire Department thought there was more that could be done in support of the Fire Department of New York. The firefighters again took to the streets and urged the ski resorts, hotels and local businesses to provide their services to the Fire Department of New York at little to no cost. All the businesses obliged, and in February of 2002, seventy-seven members of New York City's Fire Department and their families were able to enjoy a trip to Aspen, Colorado. The relationship between the two fire departments has now blossomed into an annual tradition. Firefighters from New York City have been coming to Aspen every winter since the tragic 9/11 attacks as guests of the Aspen Volunteer Fire Department. This bond forged in brotherhood came full circle this past Fourth of July when members of the Fire Department of New York made the long road trip to Aspen. They brought with them a unique and powerful gift; a refurbished piece of the World Trade Center Towers. The steel from ground zero is now the center piece of the newly built Aspen Volunteer Fire House. It also signifies the shared connection between the Aspen Volunteer Fire Department and the Fire Department of New York, and most importantly serves as a memorial to all who were lost in the September 11th attacks. Mr. Speaker, the efforts of the Aspen Volunteer Fire Department have been truly remarkable. These firefighters have tirelessly given support to the Fire Department of New York for nearly a decade, and have no intentions of stopping their good works. It has been a stirring privilege for me to rise and pay tribute to the Aspen Volunteer Fire Department.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, it is a great honor to rise and pay tribute to the life and career of Mr. James Billings, Sr. of Pueblo, Colorado. The community has lost a great firefighter and a man, who led a life that was dedicated to family, public service and leadership. Mr. James Billings, Sr. comes from a family of police officers and fire fighters, and it is no surprise that he followed in the honorable footsteps of his father and brother. Born and raised in Pueblo, Mr. Billings was compelled to serve the city, and joined the Pueblo Fire Department in 1953. Serving honorably and with distinction for twenty- five years, the last six of those years as the assistant fire chief. Mr. Billings was so respected as a firefighter that many have described working with him as one of the highlights of their careers. Mr. Billings' own son, James, Jr. said that the greatest memory of his long career as the Pueblo Chief of Police was the first time he was on the job with his father. For all the achievements of Mr. Billings' career in public service, he was an even more determined family man. With his loving wife Rose, he raised five wonderful children, and was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. The life of Mr. James Billings, Sr. is one that should be celebrated and recognized. This was a man who endlessly devoted himself to public service and to his family. Mr. Speaker, it has been my sincere privilege to rise and honor Mr. James Billings, Sr.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life of Assistant District Attorney Cecil Turner of Pueblo, Colorado. As one of Colorado's outstanding attorneys, Mr. Turner had an exemplary record in the courtroom. The state of Colorado has lost a tremendous legal resource and his experience will be difficult to replace. Many members of the Colorado legal community point to Mr. Turner as both a teacher and resource who will be sorely missed. Mr. Turner, a graduate of the University of Colorado School of Law, was an integral part of southern Colorado's legal system. Following his graduation, he joined Pueblo's legal department, where he quickly advanced. In less than a decade he rose from a department aide to chief trial deputy and eventually assistant district attorney. In 1976, he turned to private practice for several years, though he never ceased to offer advice and guidance to the district attorney's staff. He later rejoined the prosecutor's office, in 2005, and worked there for the remainder of his career. A strong legal system is essential to the freedom of all Americans, and Mr. Turner worked tirelessly in that pursuit. Attorneys of his caliber are rare, but his exemplary career is one to be admired. I rise today to commend Cecil Turner and thank him for his service to the people of Colorado.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Angie Giarratano of Pueblo, Colorado. Before her passing, she was a philanthropist and longtime leader in her community. She raised thousands of dollars for various charities and brought recognition to a number of other causes. In addition to her philanthropic work, Ms. Giarratano worked full time, raised two children and was an active member of her church. She also was a grandmother to four and great-grandmother to five. Her husband, John Giarratano, was a World War II hero who played an important role in the D-Day invasion. After the war, he became a small business owner and, like his wife, was a key leader in the community. Family was an important part of Ms. Giarratano's life and was one of the reasons she became such a valuable citizen of Pueblo. While raising a family, she volunteered for the Rocky Mountain Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association and was very active in the American Cancer Society. Ms. Giarratano also worked as the collection manager for the Pueblo Credit and Collection Bureau. Mr. Speaker, I am proud of Angie Giarratano and her family's legacy. It is an honor to recognize her life today.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Brett Brunner of Dolores, Colorado, for his exceptional performance as a cadet of the United States Air Force Academy. Mr. Brunner recently was named the Cadet Wing Outstanding 3rd Class Cadet of Fall Semester 2010, which is awarded to the most impressive cadet for each class. Academics, athletics and military duties are all considered before the recipient is selected from a list of about 1,200 cadets. Mr. Brunner excelled in every category. He owns a 3.8 GPA as a civil engineering major at the Academy. In addition, he is on the skydiving team working towards a jump master position so that he can teach others how to skydive. Physically, he is also a top performer, missing out on a perfect score by mere points. As a high school baseball and wrestling star he showed the capacity for leadership at a young age. His ability to lead has clearly translated to his undergraduate pursuits as Mr. Brunner inspires those around him to achieve their best by striving towards perfection himself. Mr. Speaker, I join the U.S. Air Force Academy in recognizing Brett Brunner for his outstanding achievements and quiet leadership at one of the country's top institutions.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize the Mogote Church, Margie Garcia and the committee responsible for the church's restoration. They were presented the Stephen H. Hart Award from the Colorado Historical Society this year for their efforts to repair the historic landmark. The Mogote Church was erected in 1895 by a group of Presbyterian missionaries and local Hispanic residents. Despite the risk of excommunication by the Catholic Church, they still founded a new congregation in Colorado's San Luis Valley. It fell into disrepair, however, and ceased to provide services by 1965. After years of increasing dilapidation, the campaign to restore the church began in 1999. With over a decade of work put into the project, it was completed, and once again became a functioning church. Hundreds of descendants of the original parishioners traveled to the church to attend the reopening and celebrate a historical Colorado landmark. It is my hope that the efforts taken by this church's community inspire others to take the same initiative in their own. The Mogote church will represent the actions of a proud community for years to come and as such, Mr. Speaker, I feel it is fitting that this body recognizes those who took charge in restoring a Colorado landmark.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Alamosa High School wrestling team and coach Gary Ramstetter. Alamosa's Mean Moose claimed their first Class 3A state wrestling title, with eight wrestlers placing in the top four and an individual title won by Darin Sisneros. It was Mr. Ramstetter's eighth state title with the school, and earned him Coach of the Year honors. Alamosa finished the tournament with a commanding 178 points, the closest competitor scoring only 122\1/2\. The victory represents a true team effort with every wrestler fighting for every point. Mr. Sisneros' individual title is also the 48th won by a student during coach Ramstetter's 30 year tenure, a testament to the hard work and motivation of both men. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Alamosa's wrestling team and their legendary coach. Under his expert guidance, I have no doubt that Alamosa can win many more state titles and continue its legacy of success both in the classroom and on the mat.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize Ray Wright and Doug Shriver of Alamosa, Colorado, for their agricultural, educational and commercial efforts to conserve and protect the state of Colorado. Both men recently passed away due to a tragic accident, a loss for both my state and this country. Doug Shriver served on a number of boards and committees while he simultaneously volunteered for other commissions. Among other pursuits, he was the vice chair of the Rio Grande Roundtable, the director and president of the Rio Grande Water Users Association as well as director of the Lariat Ditch Company. He also served as a board member for the Colorado Ground Water Commission. Ray Wright was also integral in conservation in Colorado and an avid supporter of the State's agri-business. Mr. Wright was a longtime farmer and leader in the effort to protect water rights. One of his most important contributions was developing a locally controlled mechanism designed to protect water rights. It's success translated to much larger districts as well, and ensures Colorado's future water rights. In memory of both men, their colleagues created The Shriver/Wright Agricultural Endowment, which supports the agri-business program at Adams State College in Alamosa. The endowment provides scholarships and other forms of support for the school. Water rights will continue to be a vital issue in the Southwest part of the country and the work done by Mr. Wright, Mr. Shriver and the young people who follow them will be of great importance. Given the invaluable contributions Doug Shriver and Ray Wright made to the state of Colorado, I feel it is fitting that this body recognizes them for their lifetime of service.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend Luis Nazario of Pueblo, Colorado, for pioneering the use of technology in education. Mr. Nazario became a leader among Colorado's community colleges and online education programs before use of the internet for teaching purposes was popular. As an English teacher, Mr. Nazario has been commended not only by his school, Pueblo Community College, but also by the Colorado Community College System at large. Students have broader access to educational tools both in the classroom and online in large part because of his efforts. Colorado stresses the importance of education for all of its citizens and Mr. Nazario is an example of innovation in that pursuit. Mr. Nazario graduated from Inter American University in Puerto Rico with a degree in English Literature. He emigrated to the United States to receive his master's degree as a teacher of English to other languages from New York University. He then moved to Colorado to begin teaching in the state's community college system. Mr. Nazario continues to teach English and foster learning among students who speak English as a second language in Colorado. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize Luis Nazario for his exceptional commitment to the emerging presence of technology in education. I thank him for dedicating himself to education and reaching out to Colorado's youth.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, it brings me great satisfaction to rise and pay tribute to a man whose youthful spirit and exuberance proves that age is just a number. Charles Elliott, of the San Luis Valley, will be inducted into the 2011 class of the Colorado Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame. Mr. Elliot began skiing in the early 1930s on a pair of homemade wooden skis he and a friend took to Wolf Creek Pass. From the mid 1930s to the mid 1940s Charles Elliot was a major catalyst and pioneer in the rapid growth of skiing in southwestern Colorado. After serving his country in the U.S. Army Air Corps as a weatherman from 1942-1946, Mr. Elliot returned to skiing in the State he loves, and re-started Wolf Creek Pass skiing operations which had been shut down due to World War II. Charles Elliot then served as ski patrolman and performed that duty so well that he was given the lifetime badge from the National Ski Patrol. The 98-year-old is now the ranking member of the Grey Wolf Ski Club. Charles Elliot has now been skiing for over 75 years, and at the age of 93, he recorded over 50 days on the slopes. Mr. Elliot's passion for skiing is only matched by his dedication to cultivate the continued growth of his sport. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to stand and recognize Mr. Charles Elliot on his induction into the 2011 class of the Colorado Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, it is my sincere honor to stand and pay tribute to a heroic American who was awarded our nation's highest honor for his conspicuous gallantry in the Kontum Province in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. Major William Edward Adams is an inspiration to every citizen of our great nation, and a reminder to all Americans that some will sacrifice everything to preserve our way of life. Maj. Adams was born in Casper, Wyoming, and raised in Craig, Colorado. He went to high school in Missouri at the Wentworth Military Academy. He graduated from Colorado State University, where he also met his future wife Sandra Adams. Upon graduation he joined the United States Army. Major Adams was deployed to Vietnam in 1970. On May 25th, 1971, Maj. Adams willingly volunteered for a helicopter rescue mission that would undoubtedly endanger his lightly armored aircraft and his life. The mission was to fly into a remote fire base that was under heavy attack to pick up three critically wounded soldiers. Maj. Adams was fully aware of the advantageous position of the enemy's formidable anti-aircraft guns; as well as the clear skies that would provide no cover from the imminent barrage. While directing and coordinating fire support from other attack helicopters, Major Adams landed his aircraft and picked up the three wounded soldiers. As he began his return flight, Maj. Adams' helicopter was bombarded with enemy rocket and gunfire. He calmly regained control of the aircraft, and prepared to make an emergency landing, but the helicopter exploded before Maj. Adams could touch down. For these actions, Major William Edward Adams posthumously received the Medal of Honor. Mr. Speaker, it gives me pride to know that I have fellow countrymen who are capable of such selfless feats of bravery. It has been a true privilege to rise and pay tribute to Maj. William Edward Adams.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Moffat County, located in Northwestern Colorado. The historic county celebrates its 100th anniversary this month. It stands as a reminder of the pioneering spirit that drove westward expansion and made this country great. It's roughly 14,000 residents are proud to call Moffat home and eagerly await February 27th, when the county officially celebrates its centennial. Moffat County is known best for its open space and fossil discoveries, but has a history rooted in western railroad expansion. David Moffat, the man after whom the county was named, made it a point to run his railroad through Craig, the county seat, on its way to Salt Lake City. The railroad became the backbone of the county's economy. It made the area ideal for farming and ranching. Craig, in fact, became the world's largest shipping point for wool in the 1950s. Not long after, oil and natural gas supplies were discovered and further drove growth in both the economy and population of the area. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to represent a proud and historic community like that of Moffat County, Colorado. It is no surprise that the hardworking and self-reliant residents of the area have maintained a strong county for 100 years. There is no doubt that those same people will ensure Moffat County survives for another 100 years.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, it brings me great pride to stand and recognize the courageous and patriotic actions of young Sam McBurney. In a display of conviction and principle that was far beyond his years, this 13 year old boy took it upon himself to make sure his Fruita, Colorado, middle school recited the Pledge of Allegiance. Sam realized that the Pledge of Allegiance was not being said at the start of each school day, and this did not sit well with him. Being the son of a former Marine, Sam has always possessed a profound respect for our nation, and the knowledge that you must stand up for what you believe in. With his beliefs in line, Sam organized events and created a petition to ensure that the Pledge of Allegiance was recited at least once a week at his middle school. After months of hard work and determination, Sam finally gathered enough signatures to convince the school district that our nation's Pledge of Allegiance was a necessary and important part of the school day. Mr. Speaker, it warms my heart to know that there are young, concerned citizens of our nation that will go to great lengths in an effort to make sure our flag, and all that it stands for, receive its due respect. It has been an honor to rise and pay tribute to Sam McBurney.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I would like to stand and pay sincere tribute to the life of Seth King. Sadly the city of Pueblo, Colorado, will have to continue on without the talents and gifts of the revered local legend. Mr. King was a barber and clinical chemist by trade, but he represented much more to the Pueblo community. The owner and operator of King's Barber shop, Seth King cut hair for 45 years and had a positive effect on the lives of countless individuals. Mr. King moved to Pueblo as a young man from the still segregated south. He wanted to pursue his dream of becoming a clinical chemist, and achieved that goal as he worked for The Colorado Mental Health Institute for 35 years. Mr. King was also a staunch supporter of the Republican Party, and was the first black man to run for the state senate in 1968. Seth King was also an active member of the Catholic Church and The Knights of Columbus. Whether cheering a customer up at the barbershop, or giving his time in faith- based outreach, he spent his lifetime improving the lives of those around him. Mr. Speaker, Pueblo may have lost a wonderful member of their community, but there is no doubt that the spirit of Seth King's life still reverberates throughout the city. It has been a privilege to stand and pay tribute to Mr. Seth King's accomplished life.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Edward Raps, of Del Norte, Colorado. Undersheriff Raps was recently appointed Rio Grande undersheriff. Undersheriff Raps served in the U.S. Army for four years, where he served in the Airborne as a military traffic accident investigator, and as a traffic division leader. His military experience provided an ideal backdrop for his transition to civilian law enforcement. Undersheriff Raps' expansive career in law enforcement includes work in Missouri, El Paso County, Kit Carson County, and the Colorado Corrections Association. He served as Kit Carson County Sheriff for a number of years as well. Attending numerous classes, certificate programs and schools over the past few decades, Edward's law enforcement pedigree is well-rounded and extensive. He has a passion for agriculture and the outdoors. Aside from having an extensive knowledge and background in farming and agriculture, Edward is a supporter of wildlife habitat preservation, and also teaches youth courses in hunter safety. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize Undersheriff Raps for his service to the law enforcement field. Any organization is lucky to have him, and I would like to thank him for decades of service in both the civilian and military law enforcement fields.

Mr. TIPTON

Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend Kohler McInnis of Durango, Colorado, for his courage in the face of a direct threat of his life. His recent actions protected the lives of his fellow classmates, teachers, and St. Columba Catholic School staff. Kohler's actions were celebrated with the Citizen Commendation Award, presented by Durango Police Chief David J. Felice. Last April, Kohler was a seventh-grader at St. Columba Catholic School, when a fellow student told Kohler that he was planning on using a gun he had brought to school to harm one of the teachers. Despite a death threat from the student if Kohler told anyone, Kohler put aside his own well-being for the sake of others and informed a staff member of his classmate's intention. After a quick search of the student's belongings, a .22 caliber pistol was found. Kohler's actions show his strong inclination to do the right thing regardless of consequence or outcome. Kohler not only protected the lives of those around him, but gave a misguided child a second chance at a successful life. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize Kohler McInnis for his exceptional conduct in the face of personal harm. I thank him for his ability to stand strong for what he believes right.