Dennis Cardoza

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, it is with great sadness that I rise today to honor the late Eugene Morgan Welsh. Gene passed away peacefully on July 25, 2012. Staff Sgt. Gene Welsh was a true American hero and served his country with pride and dedication. Eugene ``Gene'' Morgan Welsh was born May 9, 1925 in McAllister, OK to William Morgan Welsh and Tina Pearl Welsh. Gene had two brothers, Kenneth and Billy Welsh, who preceded him in death, brother Don and a sister Wanda Griffith. Proudly at age 18, Gene joined the U.S. Army's 19th Infantry Regiment during World War II. Staff Sgt. Welsh's assignment took him to the South Pacific. While serving in the Asiatic Pacific, Staff Sgt. Welsh was wounded in combat and was eventually awarded the Purple Heart with the Oak Leaf Cluster. While recovering from his injuries, Gene started writing to a Pen Pal, Miss Bettye Cavazos from Sharyland, TX. This was the bright spot during his recovery and he often told her in his letters that if he ever made it out of the war alive he was going to come back to the U.S. and marry her. Upon completion of his military career, he in fact went to Texas and asked for her hand in marriage. Flag Day, June 14, 1946, Bettye Cavazos became Mrs. Eugene Welsh; that same year they moved to Ceres, CA. Gene eventually opened up a business in 1967 that is known today as Ceres ProTow and it is still located at the same place 45 years later. Gene and Bettye had two sons, Mike and Ron. Gene was very proud of his sons and was devastated when Ron passed away from a pulmonary embolism. Mike continues to run the family business. Gene had a great love for his community and was very active with many social and charitable as well as civic organizations. In 1987, Gene was awarded Rotarian of the Year and in 1988 he was awarded Ceres Citizen of the Year and in 2003 he was awarded the Stanislaus County Senior Citizen of the Year. Gene also had a love of Square Dancing, and taught beginner Square Dance lessons and eventually formed the Ceres Twisters where he was the club caller for over 40 years. Gene and Bettye were always happy to share their love of Square Dancing with others and provided demonstrations to Ceres and Modesto grammar schools and convalescent homes and they danced at local, state and national festivals as well as on cruise ships. Gene is survived by his wife of 66 years Bettye, son Mike and his wife Maureen, daughter-in-law Sherry and 8 grandchildren, 8 great- grandchildren and one great-great grandson. Mr. Speaker, the recognition that I am offering today before the House of Representatives for Eugene Morgan Welsh is small compared to the contributions and impact he had on the lives of so many. He was a leader of our community, role model to our youth and a great American.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, it is with great sadness that I rise today with my colleague Congressman Jim Costa to honor the late Sgt. Jose Rodriguez who was killed on June 19, 2012 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan while supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. Sergeant Rodriguez paid the ultimate price, sacrificing his life, while protecting and serving the United States of America. Sergeant Rodriguez was raised in Newman and Gustine. He graduated from Gustine High School in 2008 and joined the army shortly thereafter. He was assigned to Joint Base Lewis-McChord near Tacoma, Washington in 2009. His first deployment was in July 2009 where he was a part of the 5th Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division. Sergeant Rodriguez decided to re-deploy on a second tour of duty in order to better provide for his wife and young son. On his second tour, he was in the 4th Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division. He received the Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal Combat Service, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Non- Commissioned Officers Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Ribbon, NATO Medal, Certificate of Achievement, and Combat Infantry Badge. Sergeant Rodriguez's family called him a responsible, quiet, and caring man. He had hoped to become a firefighter after returning home next year. He leaves behind a loving wife, Maria ``Lupita'' Rodriguez and a thirteen month old son, Octavian. He is also survived by his parents Margarita Rodriguez and Augustine Rodriguez; his brothers, Ruben Rodriguez, Julian Rodriguez, Edgar Rodriguez, Jonathon Rodriguez and his two sisters, Judith Rodriguez and Jacqueline Rodriguez. Mr. Speaker, together with my colleague, Congressman Jim Costa, the recognition that we are offering today before the House of Representatives for Sergeant Jose Rodriguez is small compared to the contributions and impact he had on the lives of so many. He was truly an invaluable member of our community and an outstanding human being. My thoughts are with Sergeant Rodriguez's family and the community as they grieve the loss of this wonderful young man.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Chair, I rise today to offer my reserved support for the legislation before us today. This bill, like so many others that we vote on, is far from perfect. I have reservations about the continued expansion of Administrative authority to waive laws that we enact here in Congress and I have reservations about continuing to expose some of the most wild and pristine areas of our country to development. However, I will support this bill because of its positive impacts for the people I was sent here to represent. As many of you are aware, water is the lifeblood of the San Joaquin Valley, the most productive agricultural region in the world. Since I entered Congress, I have made it a priority to increase water supply reliability for both the San Joaquin Valley and the Sacramento-San Joaquin Bay Delta. Title I of this bill helps to achieve that purpose. It achieves this purpose in a very simple way, by allowing for the consideration of a 10-foot increase in the spillway of an existing dam. This raise in the spillway will allow for critical year water supply increases of 15,000 acre-feet and will generate an additional 10,000 Mega-Watt Hours per year of clean, renewable energy, all at no cost to the taxpayer. And importantly, the project still has to meet environmental standards. This is a common sense approach to solve a problem incrementally, and one that I liked so much that I carried the bill in previous Congresses. I'd like to thank you for the opportunity to speak in support of this legislation.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today along with my colleague Congressman Jeff Denham to honor Jesse Brown for his years of dedicated service to Merced County. Jesse is the Executive Director of the Merced County Association of Governments (MCAG) and will be retiring after twenty-four years in the position. MCAG was formed in 1967 by the local governments in the Merced County region as a forum for making key decisions on regional growth and transportation issues. Jesse took on his position in 1988. He is well known for his leadership in promoting regional solutions to the many challenges facing the region, including transportation, public transit and solid waste. In his thirty years of public service, Jesse has successfully worked to build partnerships at the state and federal level to ensure the San Joaquin Valley remains a high priority. Jesse has served as Chair of the California Council of Governments Director Association, President of the San Joaquin Valley Transportation Planning Directors Association, and Executive Director of the Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System, known as YARTS. Additionally, he served as a committee member through the Greater Merced Chamber of Commerce to ensure that Merced was the choice place for the tenth campus of the University of California. Jesse has a Bachelor's in Public Administration and M.S. in Urban Planning from the University of Arizona. Mr. Speaker, we thank you for the opportunity to recognize Jesse Brown and his career with the Merced County Association of Governments. Further, we appreciate you joining us in thanking him for his dedicated service to Merced County and his commitment to the betterment of the region. We wish him well during this next chapter of his life.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, it is with great sadness that I rise today to honor the late Alex Hildebrand who passed away at the age of 98 on January 23, 2012. Mr. Hildebrand was born and raised in the Berkeley Hills. He raised animals and rode horses, working from a young age for the Bruno cattle ranch. He graduated from the University of California, Berkeley in 1935 with a degree in Physics and Chemistry. Mr. Hildebrand had a 27 year career with Standard Oil where he served as a refinery design engineer, assistant chief engineer of the Richmond refinery, manager for the atomic energy subsidiary of Livermore Lab, and the director of Chevron's oil field research lab. During World War II, after a stint in the Navy Reserves, Mr. Hildebrand served the war effort as Chief Engineer at an oil refinery on Bahrain Island in the Persian Gulf. Upon returning home, he purchased farmland southwest of Manteca on the San Joaquin River. In 1962, he took an early retirement from Standard Oil and moved his family to the farm. For almost 50 years, he farmed his land and served as the Consulting Engineer to the South Delta Water Agency (SDWA). He worked tirelessly to protect the Delta and the agriculture of the region. In addition to the SDWA, Mr. Hildebrand served on more than 20 federal, state and local boards dealing with water-related issues. He served on the San Joaquin Farm Bureau Board, California Farm Bureau Water Committee, Delta Water Uses Board, Water Education Foundation Advisory Board, California Central Valley Flood Control Association Board, Sierra Club and with several others created the San Joaquin River Flood Control Association. Mr. Hildebrand was appointed by Governor Wilson to serve on the CalFed Bay Delta Oversight Committee and then the CalFed Bay Delta Advisory Committee. He served as the President of the McMullin Reclamation District for many years. He was outspoken and persistent in his advocacy of Delta water and Agriculture but treated others with respect and always appreciated a good debate. Mr. Hildebrand was warm, loving and caring to his family and was an inspiration to many. He met his wife Barbara on a Sierra Club cross country ski trip. Together they have three daughters: Mary, Janet and Harriet and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, the recognition that I am offering today before the House of Representatives for Alex Hildebrand is small compared to the contributions and impact he had on the lives of so many. He was truly an invaluable member of our community and an outstanding human being.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Benjamin Duran in the event of his retirement after fourteen years of dedicated service as Superintendent/President of Merced Community College District. Dr. Duran has spent forty years as an educator in Merced County. His career began as a high school teacher in Le Grand. He served as Vice Principal of Le Grand High School from 1976 to 1980 before becoming the Assistant Director of Merced County's migrant education program. He returned to Le Grand in 1983 as Superintendent of Schools, a position he held until 1991. Dr. Duran's career with Merced College began in 1991 when he became the Vice President for Administrative Services. Dr. Duran chaired the Community College League of California's 2010 Commission on the Future. He has served as President of the California Community Colleges (CCC) Chief Executive Officers Board of Directors and President of the CCC Economic and Workforce Development Program Advisory Committee. He was a member of the Hewlett/Irvine Foundation Task Force on Basic Skills Development, the CCLC Board of Directors, and has served as Staff Developer for the California School Leadership Academy. In addition, Dr. Duran has been involved in numerous community organizations and initiatives, among them include the Greater Merced High Speed Rail Committee, the Merced County Regional Arts Council, the Mercy Medical Center Board of Directors, and the Merced School Employees Federal Credit Union Board of Directors. His professional associations include the UC Merced Foundation Board of Directors, the CSU Stanislaus Community Advisory Board and Center for Public Policy Studies. He is a member of the California Association of Latino Superintendents and a director of the California Dollars for Scholars Program. Dr. Duran and his wife, Dr. Rose Mary Parga-Duran have two children in college. Dr. Parga-Duran is presently serving as the District Superintendent for the Merced City School District. Upon his graduation he is looking forward to becoming engaged in the community as well as watching his children continue to grow into adulthood. He also is looking forward to spending more time with his eldest daughter and two grandsons who live in Southern California. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring Dr. Benjamin Duran for his dedication to Merced College and our community as a whole.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, with respect and admiration I, along with my colleagues Mr. Costa, Ms. Lofgren, Mr. McGovern, Mr. Keating, Ms. Tsongas, Mr. Honda, and Mr. Cicilline, gather today to both celebrate the freedoms we enjoy as Americans, and to honor all the brave service men and women who have fallen defending those freedoms. To all the mothers, fathers, wives, husbands, and extended family members of those who have served, we offer our deepest gratitude. The sacrifice of your loved ones is a debt that can never be repaid. As members and friends of the Congressional Portuguese American Caucus, we would also like to pay special tribute to our soldiers of Portuguese descent who have made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our country. Portuguese Americans have served with distinction in our military forces from the revolutionary war to current conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, and I have no doubt they will continue to answer America's call into our future. On this Memorial Day, Americans everywhere join in honoring those we have lost. It is a time to recognize the sacrifices made to defend our country, and remember the freedoms and liberties for which our service members fought for. We honor you and all soldiers who have answered the call of duty and we send our profound appreciation to the families of our fallen heroes. As we reflect on the tragedy of those we have lost, we should realize our great fortune to live in a free country, and recognize the sacrifices required to defend it.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor that I rise today to recognize Anita Hellam on her 10th anniversary with the Stanislaus County Habitat for Humanity and her dedication to the residents of Stanislaus County. Ms. Hellam began her housing career as an advocate for safe and affordable housing for Latino field and cannery works in Stanislaus County. Due to her efforts, twenty-seven units of affordable housing were developed and she worked to develop the Workforce Development Program to transition low skilled workers into higher paying jobs in the construction trade. Ms. Hellam worked with ten public and private institutions/agencies to take the program from concept to a sustainable program which has become a part of Modesto Junior College's technical education program. Due to the work done by Ms. Hellam, hundreds of English language learners have been able to increase their skill sets, while finding higher paying jobs in a dynamic industry. Ms. Hellum was a founding board member and organizer of the Stanislaus County Continuum of Care. She worked closely, as a volunteer grant writer, with the Housing Authority writing the application that wrapped around all of the individual submissions to HUD. Ms. Hellam worked on the original two HUD applications which resulted in nearly $2 million to Stanislaus County for housing and services to hundreds of citizens at risk of homelessness. Ms. Hellum served as a Program Manager with the Stanislaus County Affordable Housing agency providing transition housing for mentally ill individuals. In less than two years, she was able to secure approximately $1.5 million to acquire and rehabilitate a fifty unit apartment complex and a twenty unit scattered site development, which is supported with services by Behavioral Health and Recovery Services. These units will remain affordable through 2040. Before accepting the position with Habitat for Humanity, Ms. Hellum worked with Renewed Pathways which provides transitional housing to emancipated youth. She continues to volunteer with the organization and offers free grant writing and consulting services to ensure the continuation of the program for the youth in Stanislaus County. Since taking on the role of Executive Director with Habitat for Humanity, Ms. Hellum has brought in almost $15 million to create affordable homeownership opportunities for the poor and working class citizens of Stanislaus County. Specifically this created seventy zero interest new home loans and more than 50 new homes were built. Under her direction, the agency contracted with the local college on three separate occasions to revitalize some of the most economically distressed neighborhoods using funding from the HUD HSIAC program. Ms. Hellum worked closely with HUD to gain certification for Housing Counseling Services, becoming the first Habitat for Humanity in the seven Western states to gain this designation. They have assisted more than one thousand individuals with a range of pre and post purchase needs. Under Ms. Hellum's leadership, the Stanislaus County Habitat for Humanity has inaugurated two retail stores called ReStore, which created approximately fifteen new jobs and provides accessibility to low priced merchandise to the community for home maintenance and repair. The program has given donors a green means of ridding themselves of unwanted or unneeded materials that would have otherwise ended up in the landfill. Ms. Hellum also created the Windows of Hope program, which is designed to help low-income homeowners through Stanislaus County replace broken and non-energy efficient windows with efficient windows. More than two thousand windows are distributed annually. Ms. Hellum has increased the agency's profile in the community and the sustainability by increasing the bottom line of the organization by approximately $7 million despite the sharp increase in services to the community. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me, and the Stanislaus County Habitat for Humanity, in honoring a truly wonderful member of our community, Anita Hellum.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Gregory Christiansen in the event of his retirement after many years of dedicated service to music education and the community. Gregory earned his Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education from the University of the Pacific in 1974, where he graduated Cum Laude. He went on to earn a Diploma from the Grove School of Music's Professional Instrumental Program in 1983. He finished his education by obtaining his Master of Music degree in Music Education from the University of Southern California in 1985. He graduated with distinction as a member of Pi Kappa Lambda, the honorary music fraternity. Gregory has spent his career teaching music education to students ranging from elementary school through college. He taught a College Jazz Ensemble for 3 years. For 30 years he worked with both instrumental and choral groups at the high school level. There he also developed and organized an effective parent support group. He taught Middle School Instrumental Music for two years where he developed a jazz curriculum for the students. Finally, he taught Elementary Instrumental and General Music for four years, during which he developed a fourth grade exploratory instrumental music curriculum. Gregory has dedicated many years to supporting not only his students but the community as a whole. He has provided musical performances for many community events, as well as for visiting dignitaries. Gregory also worked with many community members on producing a band review, which attracted groups from over 40 schools in the region. Through his leadership, both Merced High School and Golden Valley High School have performed in the Pasadena Rose Parade. Gregory organized a non-profit parent organization to help raise funds for music students. Gregory is not only part of the local music scene but he is involved in many national music organizations. He has served on the board of both the International Association of Jazz Educators as well as the Northern California Band Association. He holds professional affiliations with the following organizations: Jazz Educators Network, California Teachers Association, California Music Educators Association and California Band Directors Association. Throughout his involvement, he has been recognized for his work and dedication to his community and students. In both 1998 and 2005, he received the Northern California Band Director of the Year. He has also received Outstanding Band Director plaques at fifteen different band reviews. Merced County has recognized his work in music education by honoring him with the Teacher of the Year Award in 2008, Superintendent Recognition Award in 2009 and the Rotary Teacher of the Year Award in 2009. Gregory was not only dedicated to his current students but the future of music education as well. He served as Master Teacher and mentor for many Student Teachers during his career. He provided opportunities for graduated students to work with and teach present students. Gregory also provided clinics at conferences for new teachers dealing with selecting repertoire, instrumentation and marching band organization. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring Gregory Christiansen for his dedication to music education and our community as a whole.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of my dear friend, Mr. Francisco ``Frank'' Alvarez. He passed suddenly this week and his passing is a devastating loss to our entire community. Frank served as the Deputy District Attorney for the Stanislaus County District Attorney's office. Frank was born July 13, 1954, in East Los Angeles. Mr. Alvarez served four years in the Air Force as a teletype repairman before starting his law career. He began working at the District Attorney's office in 1990. He prosecuted a number of misdemeanor and felony crimes from domestic violence to consumer fraud. Frank secured the first conviction against a gang member who violated the south Modesto gang injunction as a prosecutor for the gang unit; however, he spent the better part of his career--10 years--in the juvenile division. ``While he always made sure the young people were accountable for their actions, he was also very much focused on rehabilitation,'' said Ruben Villalobos, a defense attorney and a friend of Mr. Alvarez's. ``There are a lot of young people who moved beyond their criminal behavior because of Frank.'' In addition to his work at the District Attorney's office, Frank Alvarez served the community both as an advocate and also as the Commander of the American GI Forum. As a veteran, Frank knew how important service to our nation is. His life was an example to others. He was selfless and never hesitated to help a young person realize their goals and strive for success. Frank was known throughout our community for his outstanding community service. He has also served on a number of boards and committees, including the Girl Scouts, the Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee, the Stanislaus County Board of Supervisors Mental Health Board and the Turlock Unified School District Criminal Justice Committee. Since 1992, he participated in the Stanislaus County Mock Trial competition and has helped organize the Fourth of July parade, Veterans Day parade and Cinco de Mayo parade. He recently was appointed as a member on the California Mexican- American War Memorial and was the commander of the American GI Forum. The organization raises money for scholarships for veterans and future military, but Mr. Alvarez and another member had the idea of starting a scholarship for teachers to help augment the money they pay out of pocket for classroom costs. ``He was a district attorney, but he was real down to earth,'' said Fred Garcia, an American GI Forum vice commander. ``He never was assuming. He could deal with people from all walks of life, from homeless people to dignitaries.'' Mr. Alvarez is survived by his wife, Sandra; daughter, Tanya; brothers Carlos, Alex and Luis; and sister, Sylvia, as well as nine nieces and nephews. Please join me in honoring the life of Frank Alvarez and his dedication to our nation and community. He will be missed by all of us as we look to comfort his family during this difficult time.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize KATM Kat Country 103, a country music radio station located in the 18th Congressional District of California. The station recently won two national awards in the country music industry. It was honored as the 2011 Station of the Year at the Country Music Association Awards as well as at the 2012 Academy of Country Music Awards. Both accolades are highly prestigious and speak volumes of Kat Country's performance. Debuting on the air on April 4, 1992, Kat Country 103 has been providing country music to the Valley for over fifteen years. Kat Country 103 serves listeners from Sacramento to Merced and from the Foothills to the Bay Area. Under the slogan ``Continuous Country Favorites and Fun,'' it provides listeners with radio music, host concerts and events for fans, and participates in many charitable events as well. Kat Country is owned by Cumulus Media and is under the direction of Nikki Thomas, Program Manager. Kat Country 103 received the news of its nomination for the Country Music Association's award through a telephone call from country sensation Taylor Swift. Kat Country 103 was the first to interview Swift when she broke into the country music business. Beyond providing music to its listeners, Kat Country 103 also strives to give back to the community and to those in need. Every year, it works with the Make-A-Wish Foundation by holding a telethon to raise money for the organization. It's hosted several charity concerts to support St. Jude's Children's Cancer Research Hospital and even collected donations of thirty-six million pennies for the hospital. In addition, every year at Christmastime it participates in the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation drive, collecting toys and gifts for disadvantaged children in the community. The station also supports the Second Harvest Food Bank, the American Cancer Society, and countless other organizations. It also recognizes and thanks its dedicated listeners by throwing an annual Listener Appreciation Concert. To show its sincere appreciation of support, the station invites nearly 20,000 listeners to attend an all-day concert, absolutely free. It has had such performers as Toby Keith, Taylor Swift, Blake Shelton, The Band Perry and countless others. This year it will welcome Montgomery Gentry as their opening act. Please join me in congratulating Kat Country 103 and its staff on the recognition of their Country Music Association and Academy of Country Music Awards. They are a very deserving country music radio station and I am proud to have served them in the 18th California Congressional District.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, we rise today to recognize the chartering of the Riverbank Lions Club and its chartering members for their commitment to community and humanitarian service. Lions Club International was founded in 1917 by a group of business leaders who desired working towards the betterment of their community and the world. Boasting over 46,000 clubs and 1.35 million members, it is now the world's largest service organization. Together, they strive to promote the organization's mission to ``empower volunteers to serve their communities, meet humanitarian needs, encourage peace, and promote international understanding.'' Through community volunteer work, implementing programs to encourage good health and youth empowerment, as well as community and environmental awareness programs, they are truly working to make the world a better place to live. On May 5, 2012, the Riverbank Lions Club joined this prestigious organization with the chartering of its chapter in Riverbank, California. This group will undoubtedly uphold the Lions' vision and help those in need through community service and fundraising projects. Members of the chartering club are: Linda Abid-Cummings, Annabelle Aguilar, Tom Aja, Mia Alcala-Van Houten, Cynthia Avila, Lynette Bradley, James ``Doc'' Dachenhaus, Charlie Grom, Carrie Higby, Patty Hughes, Chip Langman, Sharon Langman, Don Langman, Laura Wilson, Leta Larkin, Sandy Lucas, Dotty Nygard, Billy Powell, Bill Redford, Jennifer Redford, Dawn Rios, Angie Timpone, and Joe Timpone. Mr. Speaker, we thank you for the opportunity to honor the Riverbank Lions Club here today. Further, we appreciate you joining us in congratulating its members on the chartering of their new chapter and to recognize their commitment to service.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, together with Congressman Jim Costa, I rise today to recognize Mr. Lloyd Roduner on the event of his retirement as Chairman and Division Five Director for the Lower San Joaquin Levee District. Lloyd was born in Merced in 1932 and grew up on his family's farm. He graduated from Merced High School where he served as the student body president. Lloyd then went on to attend Cal Poly on a scholastic scholarship. After college, Lloyd served in the Army from 1952 1954. He was stationed in San Diego and served as a food inspector. When he left the Army, he went back to work at his family's ranch. Lloyd, along with his brother Richard, runs the family business, W.P. Roduner Cattle & Farming Company. He was also a member of the California Beef Council and the California Cattlemen's Association. In addition, he was the charter president of the El Nido Lion's Club in 1964. Lloyd faithfully served the Lower San Joaquin Levee District since October 1985. Through his wisdom, vision and leadership he earned the respect of local, State and Federal officials and entities in support of the District. In doing this he was able to lead and guide other directors, staff and personnel in operating and maintaining the District in the most efficient and economical way possible. He always kept in mind the benefits of the District for its landowners. Lloyd has a passion for horses and roping which he learned from his father. He was an accomplished showman of horses since he was fifteen and just retired from this five years ago. Many generations of his family are ropers and as soon as his grandchildren were old enough, he taught them. Lloyd has been married to his wife, Patricia, since 1955. They have two children, Michael and Lloydeen, and eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, along with Congressman Jim Costa, I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring Mr. Lloyd Roduner for his years of dedication and service to the Lower San Joaquin Levee District.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor my friend, Dr. Hanimireddy Lakireddy on the event of his 70th Birthday. Dr. Lakireddy is a well known and respected doctor in Merced, California. He is the owner and cardiologist at Merced Heart Associates. He is also a physician and surgeon with University Surgery Center. He became the first cardiologist in Merced in 1984. Dr. Lakireddy earned his medical degree from Oasmania Ganshi Kakatiya Medical College. Dr. Lakireddy is a major supporter of the tenth University of California campus in Merced. Along with his wife, Vijaya, he generously gave a one million dollar gift to name the Classroom Auditorium and enabled the campus to enhance the main lecture hall to provide a performance-based venue for campus events. A leader in the medical and East Indian community, Dr. Lakireddy has helped cultivate numerous gifts to the campus. He not only helps the campus through monetary donations, but he lends his support as a member of the Board of Trustees. Dr. Lakireddy has a philanthropic goal to promote the virtue of education in the community. He sponsors a scholarship at Merced High School in honor of his parents. He donated one million dollars to Merced College to establish the Dr. Lakireddy School of Health Sciences which offers vocational certificates, vocational nursing, nurse assistant, emergency medical technology, registered nursing and sports medicine. He was awarded Philanthropist of the Year by the Merced community in 2006. Dr. Lakireddy not only lends his support to the Merced community but he also continues to help those in Southern India. He has funded several schools, hospitals and a sports complex in two poverty stricken cities, Velvadam and Mylavaram. In addition, Dr. Lakireddy runs a pension program in Velvadam where he promised that ``as long as I live, not a single person will go hungry.'' Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring my good friend, Dr. Hanimireddy Lakireddy for his civic engagement and support for the community.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I am delighted to rise today in order to recognize the sixty-fourth anniversary of Israel's independence. After 2,000 years the Jewish people regained their independence with the establishment of the State of Israel on April 26, 1948. Israel was conceived during a dark time for the Jewish people and for the world, but because of their steadfast vision and perseverance they have become a beacon of prosperity and hope for the entire world to follow. For sixty-four years the United States and Israel have been unwavering partners. We share an unbreakable bond based in mutual respect, shared values, and the ideal of equal opportunity for all. Our two nations have worked together side by side to promote respect for human rights and to ensure a more secure and stable world for all. As President Obama has said, and as I have said so many times before, the security of Israel is of paramount importance, and our support for that security is unbreakable. We should take this occasion to reinforce this bond and renew our commitment into the future. It is also fitting to take this occasion to focus on the future of a lasting peace. As I and my colleagues have repeatedly said, the only path to a lasting peace is through direct negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians that lead to a two-state solution. We must also acknowledge that a lasting peace cannot be achieved while a contingent within the Palestinian Government does not recognize Israel's right to exist. The State of Israel has existed for sixty-four years and will continue to endure. It is time all factions within the Palestinian Government acknowledge this so that we can move forward to achieve peace for a region that so greatly desires it. Mr. Speaker, Israel has much to be proud of today. On this day of independence, I congratulate the people of Israel for their perseverance and for the hope of a brighter future as our two nations continue down a path of prosperity and peace for years to come.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, it is with great sadness that I rise today to honor the late Jane Johnston who passed away unexpectedly on April 13, 2012. Jane and her identical twin sister, Jean, were born on September 2, 1951 to parents Dennis and Maryellen Tally. The ``Tally twins'' along with their brothers Larry and Chris, were raised in Tracy, California. Jane and her husband Tom grew up on the same street together in Tracy. They were married on September 10, 1972. Together for nearly 40 years, they raised two daughters, Jill and Laurie. Jane enjoyed being a stay-at-home mother when her daughters were young, and it was during this time that she finished her college education. Jane earned a degree in Communications from California State University, Stanislaus. The biggest joy in Jane's life was her family, and she loved spending time with her husband, children and four grandchildren. She adored her young grandchildren--all born in the past three years--and eagerly shared pictures and stories about them with her many friends. She loved family traditions, and always made holidays special for her family. Jane loved being busy, and in addition to spending time with her family and working, she enjoyed golfing at Spring Creek Country Club, traveling, reading and writing. For nearly 20 years, Jane worked at the Stanislaus County Office of Education, most recently as Assistant Superintendent of Administrative Services. Jane was an astute judge of character and was quick to recognize potential in others. She was a member of the Association of California School Administrators, the Modesto Rotary, the California and National School Public Relations Organizations, served on the Mocse Supervisory Committee and co-chaired the Stanislaus Teacher of the Year Program. Jane was an active member at Modesto Covenant Church in Modesto. She reached out to help homeless families through programs including Family Promise and the Salvation Army. Jane was a mentor to many colleagues and young children, who she enjoyed tutoring through the Stanislaus Mentoring Program. She was also instrumental in promoting and implementing the Stanislaus County ``Choose Civility'' initiative. Jane is survived by her husband Tom; children Jill and her husband Peter Krimmel and Laurie and her husband Jonathan Hansen; grandchildren Cole Krimmel, Logan Hansen, Stella Jane Krimmel and Lucas Hansen; sister Jean Benner; brothers Larry Tally and Chris Tally; and many nieces and nephews. Mr. Speaker, the recognition that I am offering today before the House of Representatives for Jane Margaret Johnston is small compared to the contributions and impact she had on the lives of so many. She was truly an invaluable member of our community and an outstanding human being.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, it is with great sadness that I rise today to honor the late Deputy Robert Paris who was killed in the line of duty on April 12, 2012. Deputy Paris paid the ultimate price, sacrificing his life, while protecting and serving the citizens of Stanislaus County. Deputy Paris was born in Tracy, California on January 23, 1959 to parents Robert Paris, Sr. and Elizabeth Paris. He graduated from Tracy Joint Union High School in 1977. He attended Delta Community College before entering paramedic school in 1979. He was certified as a Mobile Intensive Care Paramedic in 1980 and worked for Tracy Ambulance and American Medical Response serving the Tracy community. Deputy Paris graduated from Ray Simon Regional Criminal Justice Training Center in 1993. Deputy Paris began his career with the Stanislaus Sheriff's Department in 1996 as a Level 1 Reserve Officer. He was sworn in full time in 1999. He served in Patrol Operations, Court Services, Contact Cities, the Special Vehicle Off Road Unit/Water Enforcement Team and the Civil Division. Deputy Paris served his community with pride and admiration. Deputy Paris was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed spending spring and summer days camping and fishing in the Sierras with his friends and family. In the fall, he would travel to the Rockies to go hunting with his father and friends in Colorado before heading to Montana to serve as a hunting guide. He also enjoyed cycling and golfing in his spare time. He became a successful taxidermist for his own enjoyment as well as for others. Deputy Paris is survived by his parents, Bob and Jane Paris; daughter, Jami Paris and her mother, Janelle Corso; son, Bobby Paris; brother, Eric Paris and his wife Kari; sister, Krista Torpey and her husband Richard; nephews Ryan and Colin Torpey and niece, Lauren Torpey. Mr. Speaker, the recognition that I am offering today before the House of Representatives for Deputy Robert Paris is small compared to the contributions and impact he had on the lives of so many. He was truly an invaluable member of our community and an outstanding human being. My thoughts are with Deputy Paris' family, the community and the Stanislaus Sheriff's Department as they grieve the loss of this wonderful man.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the hard work of Mr. Billy Powell. Billy has been a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers 684 for sixteen years. IBEW 684 represents electrical workers in Stanislaus, Merced, Mariposa, and Tuolumne counties. It organizes electrical workers, works to secure just compensation and working conditions, provides equitable settlements of grievances, and strives to promote cordial relations between members and employers. Billy is currently the local's business manager and has served in that capacity for the past five years. He also serves as the Secretary-Treasurer of the Stanislaus and Merced Building Trades Council. In addition to his career and leadership in the electrical workers' field, he also supports the electrical workers apprenticeship program by serving as an instructor. Students are educated and trained at the Central Valley Joint Apprenticeship Training Center which is a jointly sponsored organization of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and the National Electrical Contractors Association of Northern California. This five-year comprehensive program delivers a course education, hands-on lab experience, and on-the-job training to prepare graduates to perform at a high level in the electrical industry. The school has taken top honors in the Western States Electrical Contest in 2006, 2007, 2009 and 2011, a testament no doubt to the hard work of its students and the effective teaching of its instructors. Billy is also a veteran of our armed forces having served with the United States Navy during the Gulf War. However, his heroism and dedication to our country extends far beyond his years of active duty. He is also committed to providing for our veterans here at home as well. He has employed twenty-five homeless or out of work veterans on projects in the Central Valley and is dedicated to placing even more at future work sites. In addition, he works with Helmets to Hardhats, a national program that trains veterans to transition into skilled, promising construction trade jobs. His efforts to aid our veterans are truly inspiring and I have no doubt that his commitment will assist many more deserving men and women in the future. It is a great privilege to honor Mr. Billy Powell for his long career and leadership with the IBEW 684, his commitment to the education and training of a new generation of skilled laborers, and his devotion to our district, our country, and our veterans. His benevolence and leadership have truly set a positive example for all to admire and follow. It is an honor to know him, to work with him, and to call him my friend. Mr. Speaker, thank you for the opportunity to recognize this fine individual for his work and his efforts here today.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Chairman, I thank my colleague for yielding. I rise today to offer my support for the legislation. This bill, like so many others that we vote on, is far from perfect. However, I'll support this bill because of many provisions, important provisions for my valley within it. Mr. Chairman, water is absolutely critical to the economy of the San Joaquin Valley, the valley I love. Without an adequate water supply, agricultural fields go fallow and entire communities can be laid to waste. No one understands this more than myself and my colleague, Mr. Costa, my friend from the valley. We have both fought for water for our entire careers for our people. In fact, just last year, he and I introduced legislation to provide operational flexibility in the implementation of the Endangered Species Act for water deliveries for the Central Valley Project. Unfortunately, our colleagues on the other side of the aisle haven't felt the importance of holding a hearing on that bill. Titles I and III of this legislation aim to address the flawed regulations that have reduced our vital water deliveries to my friends and neighbors throughout the valley. I have no reservations in supporting these provisions, and commend my colleagues on the other side for introducing them. I recommend a ``yes'' vote. When it comes to title II of this bill, which calls for the repeal and replacement of the San Joaquin River Restoration Act, I would like to mention that this was a locally requested and locally championed piece of legislation to end an 18-year lawsuit. Although I had serious reservations when this bill was first introduced, I supported the solution when it came through this House. I will say now that the implementation of this act, as it has been done by the administration, has left a lot to be desired. I have significant further reservations with the San Joaquin River Restoration program, and it has recently become clear that those views that I expressed during its formation are coming to pass. The restoration is far too costly, and its schedule is advancing in a way that landowners adjacent to the new flows are being damaged. Despite this, just simply saying we will remove the agreement that has been put in place is not the answer. We don't need to repeal it--we need to repair it--particularly when the only thing a repeal accomplishes is a continuation of a lawsuit that prompted the legislation in the first place. However, I'd like to make a comment about the process under which this legislation was drafted. As many of you know, this is my last year as a Member of this body. This bill, even while I support it, is a perfect example of how dysfunctional this body has become. This bill will never become law. To be frank, I'm doubtful that it will even be debated in the Senate. I feel this way because the authors of this bill haven't expressed a serious interest in engaging either me, Congressman Costa or Senator Feinstein in drafting a bipartisan piece of legislation that can pass both chambers of Congress. It's unfortunate that some continue to exploit the real life challenges facing the folks we have the honor of representing to score a cheap political point. Successful functioning of Congress and the resulting successful resolution of the problems afflicting this nation will require the participation of both Republicans and Democrats. We cannot function individually; we must function in concert to solve the challenges facing us today. I think we not only can do better, but we must do better, if we're going to accomplish what we were sent here to do. Only efforts like that will truly solve the complex problems facing us today.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride and the deepest respect that I ask you to join me in honoring one of the Central Valley's most distinguished citizens, Mayor Jim Ridenour, as he ends his successful tenure as the Mayor of Modesto, California. Mayor Ridenour epitomizes what is best about Modesto and has shown a selfless commitment to his community. A life-long resident of Modesto, Mayor Ridenour had a successful business career in the ambulance industry. He served five terms as Chairman of the California Ambulance Association, and received many awards and honors from the association and state legislators. He also served as a reserve deputy sheriff for Stanislaus and Santa Barbara counties. During his eight years in office, Mayor Ridenour has shown a tireless commitment to help Modesto enrich and empower its citizens, families, businesses and schools. He has shown leadership in encouraging regional cooperation on important issues through initiatives such as the ``Mayor's Working Group'' which brings together the nine Mayors of Stanislaus County to share information and work together on central issues such as transportation. With the City Council's diligent work, he has provided leadership in consistently developing a balanced budget and in doing so has put Modesto in a far better financial position than many other cities in the surrounding area. Mayor Ridenour has strived to make local government more user- friendly and accessible to the citizens of Modesto. He created a web- based citizen action center where citizens can report problems, ask questions and track responses and response times. He has also made applications for citizens' advisory committees available online. Mayor Ridenour has made an effort to make local government more transparent by developing a comprehensive Salary & Compensation webpage where the public can view Councilmembers' pay, Charter Officer contracts and pay, Department Director pay as well as all salary schedules and job descriptions as well as labor contracts. He has always been described as a man of the people. Mayor Ridenour assumed an important leadership role as the President of the League of California Cities in 2010, a critical time for California's cities. As President and in his subsequent service as a member of the League's executive committee, Mayor Ridenour proved to be a powerful player in the fight for redevelopment and California's future. Mayor Ridenour is married to his beautiful wife Renee for forty years and together they have three children and numerous grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating my good friend, Mayor Jim Ridenour and the Ridenour family as he celebrates his successful service as Modesto's Mayor.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Lisa Mantarro Moore for being honored by the Ceres Chamber of Commerce with its Citizen of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award. Lisa, also a valued member of my staff, has long been a tireless advocate for the city of Ceres, California, and its surrounding communities, and I am honored to pay tribute to her achievement today. A lifelong resident of Ceres, Lisa's public service career began when she was elected as a student body officer at Ceres High School. After graduating from the California State University, Stanislaus, Lisa started her career with the U.S. House of Representatives as an aide to Congressman Gary Condit. For the past twenty years, she has served the constituents of California's 18th Congressional District as a Field Representative and a District Director, and currently, as my Deputy Chief of Staff. Lisa's leadership and skill have truly made a difference in the lives of those she has helped. Lisa has long been a leader in the Ceres community. From 2001 to 2005, Lisa served the city as a councilmember as well as Vice Mayor. She has also served as an officer on the Ceres Street Faire Committee for the past ten years. In addition, she worked to form the Ceres Youth Commission, helped lead campaigns for passage of school bonds in Measures J and U as well as the Measure H half-cent sales tax for public safety. Further, she serves on the board at the Ceres Whitmore Mansion and on the Sam Vaughn and Mae Hensley Junior High School Site Councils. In addition to her leadership in Ceres, Lisa is also a strong advocate for women. She is a longtime member of Soroptimist International of Ceres, which serves to better the lives of women and girls both locally and around the world. She was also instrumental in the development of the Stanislaus County Family Justice Center and serves on its Board of Directors. It is my great privilege to honor Lisa Mantarro Moore on being recognized as the Ceres Chamber of Commerce's Citizen of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award recipient. She is certainly most deserving of this high acknowledgement. Her dedication to the city of Ceres and her passion for public service has truly made a difference in bettering her community. It is a true pleasure to have her on my staff and as my personal friend. Please join me in recognizing her work and her lifelong achievements.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Richard Mahacek in the event of his retirement after four decades of service with Merced County and the University of California, Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources Cooperative Extension. Richard began his youth development career in 1975 in the California Counties of Sonoma, Napa and San Benito as a 4-H Assistant implementing youth programs. Richard then moved on to Merced County where he became responsible for the development, implementation and evaluation of 4-H educational programs as the 4-H Youth Development Advisor. He has continued in this assignment for over 35 years. In 2005, he also assumed the role of Merced County Director for all Cooperative Extension programs. In addition to his work with Merced County, Richard became the California statewide 4-H contact for Mechanical Science/Engineering project areas beginning in 1995. Richard's involvement and direction for the Mechanical Sciences and Engineering projects stems from his interest, degrees and credentials in Industrial Arts and Technology. His curiosity in technology was fostered in his youth by participating in electrical, woodworking and safety projects as a 4-H member in Sonoma County. His work over the years has included development of curriculum and activities in science processes, robotics, computers, GIS/GPS, bio-security, and environmental issues such as watersheds and wildlife habitats. He has provided numerous workshops and training sessions on science processes, inquiry and experiential learning as implemented through various 4-H curricula locally, statewide and nationally. Richard has partnered with other groups to extend technology programs including the California Girls Collaborative, Challenger Learning Centers, Merced County Office of Education, the California Division of Recycling, 4-H/Military Kids program, Society of Women Engineers, 21st Century Community Learning Centers and state supported after school programs. He serves on the executive board of the Challenger Learning Center of the San Joaquin Valley and is a member of the California Industrial and Technology Education Association and the International Technology and Engineering Educators Association. Richard has been married to his beautiful wife Susan for over 32 years. Together they have three grown children. Their son Mark works for an office of education working in computer networking and technology support and his wife Marissa is a teacher in Planada. Paul is a mechanical engineer who is working on an ocean acidification research project in the South of France and his wife Lindsay is an Accountant. Their daughter Anne is a mechanical engineer who is working on a Masters program in Mechatronics. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring Mr. Richard Mahacek for his years of dedication to the 4-H students and program.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mrs. Sandy Hopp in the event of her retirement from Stanislaus County. Sandy Hopp has been an employee of the County of Stanislaus since January 2003. She was recruited to work as a Field Representative for Supervisor Jeff Grover, a position she held for eight years. She is currently the Field Representative to Supervisor Terry Withrow, representing Supervisorial District Three. After being hired, she quickly increased in responsibilities and exhibited a great skill in working with people in all walks of life. She is often the eyes, ears and voice of her elected Supervisor, and represents the Supervisor in venues such as the Salida Municipal Advisory Committee, the Weed and Seed Project and other community meetings and organizations. Mrs. Hopp has a tremendous understanding of government operations and serves as an outstanding interface between the Supervisors' Office, County departments, the community and various state and federal organizations. In her role, Mrs. Hopp quickly developed a passion for the area of legislative and governmental affairs. She was selected as a liaison to a French delegation visiting Stanislaus County, she serves as the coordinator of Government Day for the elite Leadership Modesto program and she was a coordinator of the San Joaquin Valley Regional Association of California Counties Supervisors Association Annual Meeting. Mrs. Hopp is an outstanding liaison with the offices of local, state and federal elected officials. A personal highlight of mine is when Stanislaus County officials visit Washington, D.C. to present projects and priorities. Mrs. Hopp coordinates extremely complex schedules for maximum efficiency of the trip and also serves as an outstanding liaison to Congressional offices. Visiting with Mrs. Hopp on these trips is always a highlight for my staff and for me personally. Mrs. Hopp has a personal commitment to excellence and a strong faith which is central to whom she is as a person and to her service to her family, church and community. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring Mrs. Sandy Hopp for her many years of dedication to the County of Stanislaus.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize my friend, Richard Robinson in the event of his retirement after seven dedicated years of service as Chief Executive Officer of Stanislaus County. Rick was appointed Stanislaus County Chief Executive Officer in September 2004. In this position, under the director of the Board of Supervisors, Rick oversees all aspects of Stanislaus County government, which includes 26 County departments, a $900 million operating budget and over 3,600 employees. Faced with severe financial challenges during the current economic crisis, Rick led an effort to develop a multi-year framework around which the County budget functions, a strategy which enables the County to address both current and future year budget shortfalls in a systematic and proactive manner. During his career with Stanislaus County, he also led many efforts aimed at strengthening the County health care safety net, including successful initiatives to attain the Federally Qualified Health Care Facility Designation in the County's health clinic system, a multi-year effort to retain the County Residency Program, and the sale and transition of the Stanislaus Behavior Health Center to private Ownership. Prior to his appointment with Stanislaus County, Rick had, since 1991, held the position of Chief Administrator with Tehama County. Rick started his local government career in 1982 as an Accountant for the Tehama County Auditor-Controller's Office. In 1986, he was elected Auditor-Controller and ran unopposed for a second four-year term in 1990. Rick currently serves on several local committees, including the Community Hospice Board of Directors, the Governing Board of Doctors Medical Center, Stanislaus Workforce Alliance Board of Directors and the Valley First Credit Union Supervisory Committee. Rick was recently honored by the Stanislaus County Equal Rights Commission as a recipient of the 2011 Annual Dale Butler Equal Rights Award for exemplary service in equal employment opportunity matters and leadership in promoting equal rights. Rick was an honors graduate of California State University, Chico, earning his degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting. He is a lifetime selection to Beta Gamma Sigma, a national scholastic honor society for business graduates. Rick has been married to his beautiful wife Kathy for 37 years. They have 4 children and 8 grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring my good friend, Mr. Richard Robinson for his years of dedication to the County of Stanislaus.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Chairman, I rise today to speak in support of this important legislation that will ensure that regulations governing the businesses in our communities are fair and reasonable. H.R. 3010 will provide a number of benefits for businesses in our communities, while also protecting public health and safety. It ensures greater transparency in the regulatory process and greater scrutiny of the economic effect of regulation. We all know how regulations are implemented can have a significant impact on our communities. For example, in my home district, there is a utility company that owns a percentage of a power plant in New Mexico that is subject to a standard on regional haze. The state of New Mexico put together a plan to retrofit this power plant and others within the state to meet the clean air standards using one type of technology. In the meantime, the EPA also put together a plan to meet the exact same standard. However, EPA's plan uses a different kind of technology to meet this standard, one that costs ten times more. If this rule gets published, this plant will be required to use EPA's plan, ultimately costing each of my constituents up to 700 dollars over the life of this project to achieve the exact same standard that New Mexico's plan meets. Under H.R. 3010, nonsensical requirements like this cannot be made, because it forces the agency to use the least costly alternative to meeting a standard. While I do have significant concerns with how this bill is paid for, the importance of ensuring that regulations provide more benefit than burden to our citizens leads me to ultimately support it. However, should this bill pass the House today and the Senate consider it, I ask that the Senate change the pay for and ensure that no voters are disenfranchised in return for greater transparency in the regulatory process. Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues to support this bill and ensure a more common sense, transparent and fair regulatory process.