[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 68 (Friday, May 14, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E853]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      PAYING TRIBUTE TO TOM WIENS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 13, 2004

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to 
pay tribute to Tom Wiens, and thank him for his extraordinary 
contributions to the State of Colorado as a member of the Colorado 
General Assembly. Elected to serve the people of District 45 in 2002, 
he will be remembered as a legislator with the utmost dedication and 
talent, and will continue to be known as a leader in the community. As 
he moves on in his career, let it be known that I, along with people of 
Colorado, are eternally grateful for all that he has accomplished in 
his tenure in the Colorado House of Representatives.
  A businessman and rancher, Tom grew up on his family's historic ranch 
where they raise hay and cattle, and breed champion cutting horses. 
During his time at the State House, he has served on the Business 
Affairs and Labor Committee, and the Agriculture, Livestock, and 
Natural Resources Committee. His work as a legislator garnered him the 
Freshman Legislator of the Year award in 2003 by the Independent 
Bankers of Colorado, and the Colorado Fire Chiefs Association made him 
an honorary member.
  While Tom has effectively served the people of Douglas and Teller 
Counties in the General Assembly, he has stayed an active participant 
in the community. He serves on the Board of Directors for the 
Children's Hospital Research Foundation, and is a member of the 
National Western Stock Show and Rodeo Association. He is involved with 
parent organizations at Douglas County High School and Larkspur 
Elementary, works with several faith-based community outreach programs, 
and is a member of Cherry Hills Community Church. He also has served as 
a volunteer police chaplain and is a former Director of the Colorado 
Ski Museum and Hall of Fame.
  Mr. Speaker, it is clear that State Representative Tom Wiens has 
ceaselessly dedicated his time and efforts to serving his district and 
the people of Colorado. It is his incredible devotion along with his 
passion for contributing towards the betterment of his community and 
the State of Colorado that I wish to bring before this body of Congress 
and this nation. It is my distinct pleasure to recognize Tom here 
today, and wish him and his wife Diana all the best in their future 
endeavors.

                          ____________________