[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E298]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                          HONORING LAURA SKAER

                                 ______
                                 

                      HON. CATHY McMORRIS RODGERS

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 13, 2019

  Mrs. RODGERS of Washington. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the 
career of Laura Skaer, Executive Director of the American Exploration & 
Mining Association. Laura is retiring this month, after serving as 
Executive Director of the AEMA for the last 22 years.
  Laura's work on behalf of the AEMA has led this organization to 
become the largest membership-based mining industry trade association 
in the United States. Laura's career began as a lawyer in Missouri, but 
eventually took her through various positions in the natural resources 
industry. Laura has played a vital role in advocating for our natural 
resources industry, and is well known for her effective work in 
coordinating the efforts of the public and private sectors.
  Laura has also been widely acknowledged for her efforts on behalf of 
the AEMA. Among her many awards and accolades, Laura has been named 
President of the Independent Petroleum Association Mountain States, 
Regional Vice President of the Independent Petroleum Association of 
America, and a member of Colorado's Minerals, Energy and Geology Policy 
Advisory Board. Additionally, in 2004, Laura received the U.S. Bureau 
of Land Management's Sustainable Development Award and has also 
received special recognition from the U.S. Forest Service, Division of 
Minerals & Geology Management.
  I appreciate Laura's work on behalf of the AEMA and the positive 
example she provides to the people of Eastern Washington. I wish her 
the best in this next chapter of her life.

                          ____________________