Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Steve Selle for receiving the Arvada Chamber of Commerce's 2025 Image Award.

Image Award winners are selected for their commitment to Arvada and the overall positive image they portray within the community. As a longtime member of the Lake Arbor Optimists Club, Steve has changed countless lives and brought a sorely-needed positive outlook to

our community. He also founded the Optimists Bicycle Program, donating over 1,200 bicycles to schools, churches, nonprofits, and community organizations throughout Jefferson and Adams Counties. He also helped launch the annual Arvada Bicycle Recycling Day, which has given more than 800 bicycles a second life.

For over 37 years, Steve has made education possible for young Coloradans, serving as a principal and teacher in multiple school districts before retiring in 2008. Through service as an educator, advocate, and a volunteer with multiple groups, Steve embodies the best of Arvada--a place where community, service, and humanity thrive.

On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Steve Selle for this award and thank him for his commitment to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the late Joe Hengstler for receiving the Arvada Chamber of Commerce's 2025 Image Award posthumously.

Image Award winners are selected for their commitment to Arvada and the overall positive image they portray within the community. Joe, who was a tremendous advocate for Arvada, was lovingly called the ``Mayor of Olde Town.'' Joe was instrumental in developing signature events like Second Saturdays, and he was a champion of initiatives that enhanced Olde Town's welcoming, walkable character, including with pedestrian-friendly design and public art. His commitment to our community helped make it a vibrant regional destination and one of the area's most cherished landmarks.

Joe is described by those closest to him as ``hard on the issues, but easy on the people.'' In times of crisis, especially during the COVID- 19 pandemic, his bold and altruistic leadership was invaluable in helping local companies survive. Even after his diagnosis with Stage 4 cancer in February 2024, Joe remained steadfast in his mission and remained committed to our community--planning events, collaborating with regional stakeholders, and tirelessly advocating for small businesses.

On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to help dedicate this award in memory of Joe Hengstler and thank him for his contributions to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jan Eckhardt for receiving the Arvada Chamber of Commerce's 2025 Woman of the Year Award.

The title of Woman of the Year is awarded to an exceptional individual who demonstrates extraordinary community involvement, generosity, and overall impact on Arvada. As a lifelong advocate for people, parks, and animals in Arvada, Jan Eckhardt is a deserving recipient of this honor.

During her more than 32 years serving on the North Jeffco (now Apex) Park and Recreation District Board of Directors, Eckhardt has been a champion for our local open spaces--even securing a park near her home and preserving what is now Jack B. Tomlinson Park. She has also brought that sense of land stewardship to her work on the Board of Two Ponds Wildlife Refuge, the MaxFund Board of Directors, and the West Side Denver Symphony Guild, which integrates cultural prosperity with humanitarian advocacy.

On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Jan Eckhardt on receiving the 2025 Woman of the Year Award and thank her for her contributions to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Outdoor Lab Foundation on the 50th anniversary of their Windy Peaks Campus.

For over 60 years, the Outdoor Lab has touched the lives of young people in Jefferson County by providing a week-long camp experience that helps middle and high school students build leadership, communication, and teamwork skills. Beyond this, the Outdoor Lab has helped generations of Jefferson County students develop a lasting appreciation for Colorado's natural spaces.

At both their Mount Blue Sky campus in Evergreen and Windy Peak campus in Bailey, the Outdoor Lab Foundation welcomes over 5,000 students each year. As a proud Outdoor Lab alumna and former high school student leader myself, I can personally attest to the importance of their work. I thank them for investing in our children and in access to the

outdoor spaces that are such an important part of our Colorado way of life.

On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate the Outdoor Lab Foundation on 50 years of outdoors education at their Windy Peak campus and wish them continued success in the future.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Executive Director Jeff Streeter of the Jefferson County Communications Center Authority (Jeffcom 911) for his service to Jefferson County, and to congratulate him on his retirement.

Jeff has honorably served the Jefferson County community for 9 years, culminating in an exemplary law enforcement career of over 31 years. Jeff began his dedicated career in public service with the Broomfield Police Department, then continued on to serve as Lakewood Police Department Commander, and as Chief of Police for Lone Tree, before joining Jeffcom 911. Under Jeff's leadership, Jeffcom 911 grew from its early stages of development into a dispatch communications center recognized nationally for its stability, innovation, and success. As Executive Director, Jeff oversaw the operations and strategic direction of the center, establishing key initiatives including Advisory Planning Teams, a Peer Assistance Team, Training and Quality Assurance Teams, an Information Technology Division, and their Support Services Division.

I join the communities Jeff has served throughout his career in gratitude for his leadership and commitment to keeping our neighborhoods safe with efficient emergency response efforts. Although Jeff's outstanding leadership will be greatly missed, his efforts to build Jeffcom 911 have created a lasting service for all future generations who depend on the critical services they provide.

On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Jeff Streeter on his well-earned retirement from a distinguished career of service to Jefferson County.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Zylasha Gambrel for receiving the Arvada Chamber of Commerce's 2025 Rising Star Award.

The Rising Star Award recognizes High School students who live or attend school in Arvada who have exemplified extraordinary skills in entrepreneurship, innovation, community impact, and leadership. As Student Body President at Arvada High School, Zylasha exemplifies innovative problem-solving by turning ideas into action--identifying school culture gaps amid rigorous academics and leadership demands.

Her community involvement encompasses the Jeffco Student Leadership Board, National Honor Society membership, mentoring as an Outdoor Lab Leader, and participation in wrestling, softball, and tennis. She also orchestrates successful events, including pep rallies, school dances, Trick or Treat Street, and Empty Bowls Night to benefit The Community Table. Zylasha takes initiative in everything she does, from shadowing the mayor at work to driving creative solutions at school.

On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Zylasha Gambrel for this award and thank her for her commitment to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Lujane Hanna for receiving the Arvada Chamber of Commerce's 2025 Young Professional Leadership Award.

The Young Professional Leadership Award recognizes a young professional under the age of 40 whose leadership and dedication has impacted the world around them. As a financial professional at Valorem Financial, Lujane has already achieved the CFP designation--the industry gold standard--delivering financial clarity, stability, and long-term success for individuals, families, and business owners. She also serves as a mentor at her company, helping other employees with skill-building.

Outside of work, she hosts free educational workshops around empowering women professionals through financial literacy, and participates in Old Town Arvada community events

like Trick or Treat Street and Second Saturday during the summer with her ``Wheel of Wealth'' booth.

On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Lujane Hanna for this award and thank her for her commitment to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Leslie Feuerborn for receiving the Arvada Chamber of Commerce's 2025 Image Award.

Image Award winners are selected for their commitment to Arvada and the overall positive image they portray within the community. Through 40 years as a program manager in health promotion, 500 volunteer hours each year dedicated to nonprofit service, and weekly readings with elementary students, Leslie tirelessly uplifts her community through action. As the treasurer for The Arvada Jefferson Kiwanis Club and Foundation, she supports initiatives such as Sweet Dreams in a Bag, which provides bedding and comfort items to children in need.

Leslie is a behind-the-scenes force for good, quietly coordinating, tracking details, and following through so that every project--from fundraising to service days--has the structure it needs to succeed. For her unwavering service, conscious compassion, and profound impact on her environment, Leslie truly embodies the spirit of Arvada and the Image Award.

On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Leslie Feuerborn for this award and thank her for her commitment to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Andrew Heesacker for receiving

the Arvada Chamber of Commerce's 2025 Man of the Year Award.

The title of Man of the Year is awarded to an exceptional individual who demonstrates extraordinary community involvement, generosity, and overall impact on Arvada. Andrew's passion for serving others through leadership and integrity has made him a standout citizen in Arvada's business and civic life.

As the owner of Arvada Rent-Alls, he uplifts his neighbors and supports important causes through donating volunteers and equipment for events and fundraisers throughout the city. He also serves our community through his work on the Greater Arvada Chamber Board of Directors and his volunteer work with Team Rubicon, the National Western Stock Show, and Hope, Connection & Community.

On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Andrew Heesacker on receiving the 2025 Man of the Year Award and thank him for his contribution to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Marshall Moore for receiving the Arvada Chamber of Commerce's 2025 Young Professional Leadership Award.

The Young Professional Leadership Award recognizes a young professional under the age of 40 whose leadership and dedication have impacted the world around them. Marshall is enthusiastic about creating lasting financial confidence and community momentum. As the Director of Community Impact and Financial Well-being at On Tap Credit Union, Marshall has forged 12 partnerships, delivered 100+ speaking engagements, and launched the award-winning ``Making Money Joyful'' program for 150 plus participants, for which he received two Credit Union Diamond Awards.

He is also an active community member, having presented on the importance of financial wellness to the Arvada Chamber of Commerce, local high schools, Red Rocks Community College, and Jeffco teachers.

On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Marshall Moore for this award and thank him for his commitment to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Outdoor Lab Foundation on the 50th anniversary of their Windy Peaks Campus.

For over 60 years, the Outdoor Lab has touched the lives of young people in Jefferson County by providing a week-long camp experience that helps middle and high school students build leadership, communication, and teamwork skills. Beyond this, the Outdoor Lab has helped generations of Jefferson County students develop a lasting appreciation for Colorado's natural spaces.

At both their Mount Blue Sky campus in Evergreen and Windy Peak campus in Bailey, the Outdoor Lab Foundation welcomes over 5,000 students each year. As a proud Outdoor Lab alumna and former high school student leader myself, I can personally attest to the importance of their work. I thank them for investing in our children and in access to the outdoor spaces that are such an important part of our Colorado way of life.

On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate the Outdoor Lab Foundation on 50 years of outdoors education at their Windy Peak campus and wish them continued success in the future.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate The Refuge Cafe on the 20th anniversary of their supportive housing community in Broomfield.

For over two decades, The Refuge Cafe has uplifted vulnerable community-members who were struggling with substance use disorder, homelessness, and mental health. It first opened its doors in 2006 and today serves an estimated 1,000 community members every month. Their holistic work is a cornerstone of the Broomfield community, providing a safe place to rest, access to local resources, free lunches, Wi-Fi, showers, and hygiene supplies for our friends and neighbors in need. The Refuge is dedicated to serving individuals in the community by providing access to resources and offering a sense of belonging.

Having grown up as an at-risk youth, I know that healthcare is more than just access to services and economic stability--it is also about human connection. The Refuge intentionally cultivates this human connection in their community, fostering trauma-informed care that facilitates lasting recovery.

On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate The Refuge Cafe on celebrating 20 years of ``holding hope and building dreams,'' as they continue to deliver integrated healthcare services to our community.

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.

Mr. Speaker, I missed two votes in the vote series on June 29, 2026. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 229, final passage of H.R. 7128 as amended, the TRIA Program Reauthorization Act of 2026; and YEA on Roll Call No. 228, final passage of H.R. 7757 as amended, the Kids Internet and Digital Safety Act.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Kathy Hodgson of Lakewood for her service as City Manager.

For 46 years, Kathy has been a pillar of the Lakewood Community, beginning her career as a teenage lifeguard at her local pool, where she safeguarded residents and discovered her passion for public service. Over several decades, Kathy worked her way to the City Manager position, which she has held for the past 18 years. During her tenure, she secured 192 acres for city parks and open spaces, including nearly 60 acres in the heart of Lakewood. She oversaw the largest infrastructure investment in the city's history along the West Colfax Corridor. As a regional leader in Jefferson County, Kathy helped create the Volunteers of America Colorado Navigation Center to address homelessness.

Kathy's dedication to service does not end with the City of Lakewood. She formerly served on the Red Rocks Community College Advisory Council, as president of the Colorado Women's Forum, the Colorado Municipal League executive board, and the Colorado City and County Management Association.

Kathy led the City of Lakewood to become a national sustainability beacon by increasing the number of electric vehicles in the city's fleet, installing solar power at Whitlock Recreation Center, adding EV charging stations at cjty facilities, and creating a residential composting program. Kathy has gone above and beyond in her service to the community and has been an inspiration to those around her.

The City of Lakewood and the State of Colorado have benefited from Kathy's hard work and commitment to creating a better future for all Coloradans, and her absence will be felt by the community she served so well.

On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Kathy Hodgson on her well-earned retirement and to thank her for her service to our community.