[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 78 (Thursday, June 7, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1056]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    HONORING ``SHOULDER-TO-SHOULDER'' AWARD WINNER, MR. HOMER LUTHER

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, June 7, 2001

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take a moment and thank Mr. 
Homer Luther for his service to the National Park Service. For over a 
quarter of a century, Homer has dedicated his life to protecting our 
national parks. For that Mr. Speaker, he deserves the thanks of 
Congress.
  Homer is the Director of the Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and Mesa Verde 
National Parks Foundation. On May 16, 2001, he was presented the 
``Shoulder-to-Shoulder'' award in recognition of his personal service, 
commitment and dedication to national park units within the 
Intermountain Region.
  Homer started working with the National Park Service during President 
Nixon's second administration. One of the big issues facing newly 
appointed Parks Director Ron Walker was the use of snowmobiles in 
national parks. Ron recruited Homer to join him on a five-day personal 
research snowmobiling outfit. In the 70's, Homer served his first term.
  Following two terms on the National Park Foundation Board, Homer 
decided to form the National Park Foundation Alumni Council, where he 
still serves as the Chair. He decided to form this council because it 
was critical not to lose the talents and energies of those whose terms 
were expiring.
  A few years ago, the staff at Mesa Verde National Park became aware 
that a critical parcel of land was going to be sold. Homer was 
concerned that it would be developed in a way that would harm the areas 
natural values. ``He challenged other Foundation board members to join 
him in raising sufficient funds to purchase the tract of land to 
preserve the gateway experience to the park. Thanks to Mr. Luther's 
leadership, this land is now protected,'' said Regional Director Karen 
Wade.
  Mr. Speaker, for the last 30 years, Homer Luther has helped to keep 
America's National Parks beautiful and well maintained. His expertise 
and leadership on this issue has been a real benefit to the Park 
Service and to everybody who uses the National Parks. I would like to 
thank him on behalf of Congress for all his hard work and dedication.

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