[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 1 (Tuesday, January 20, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E10]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    PAYING TRIBUTE TO FRED VELASQUEZ

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, January 20, 2004

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker it is my honor to rise and pay tribute to a 
remarkable man from my district. The Colorado Association of 
Conservation Districts recently recognized Fred Velasquez from La Jara, 
Colorado as Colorado's Ranch Conservationist of the Year. Not only is 
Fred a tremendous steward of the land, but he has also contributed a 
great deal to the La Jara community. I am proud to call the attention 
of this body of Congress and our nation to Fred's many accomplishments.
  Fred was born and raised in Antonito and graduated from Antonito High 
School in 1949. Following graduation, Fred answered his country's call 
to duty and served in Korea and Japan as a member of the United States 
Army Medical Corps between 1951 and 1954. Upon returning from duty, 
Fred became the Deputy County Assessor for Conejos County. From 1968 
through 1972, Fred served on the La Jara City Council. In 1972, the 
people of La Jara elected Fred to serve as their Mayor. As Mayor, Fred 
contributed a great deal during his four-year term. From 1959 to 1987, 
Fred owned a branch of the Farm Bureau Insurance Agency and, in 1991, 
continued his duty to Conejos when he became the County's Weed 
Supervisor.
  In addition to his duties for the City of La Jara, Fred is also a 
well-respected rancher in the region. Fred's recognition as Ranch 
Conservationist of the Year stemmed from his leadership in the 
implementation of soil and water conservation practices. Fred recently 
restored the land surrounding the Conejos River, which runs through his 
500-acre ranch. This has improved the water quality in the river and 
provided habitat for the many species of wildlife that make their home 
on the ranch.
  Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to rise and pay tribute to Fred 
Velasquez. Fred's many conservation accomplishments, coupled with his 
tireless service to our nation and his community, are certainly worthy 
of recognition. Thank you for your service Fred, and congratulations on 
a well-deserved award.

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