Jim Costa

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise to support the bipartisan Farm Workforce Modernization Act, which is an opportunity to provide meaningful reform that we have been waiting for, for years. This measure is supported by a bipartisan coalition that includes not only the United Farm Workers and other labor organizations, but a majority of farm organizations across the country. What this is really about is an opportunity to fix a part of a broken immigration system. I want to thank not only Chairman Nadler, but also Chairwoman Zoe Lofgren and Dan Newhouse for the hard work that they have done to bring this legislation to the floor, bipartisan support on both sides of the aisle. Let me begin with the fact that food is a national security issue. It is a national security issue. Less than 5 percent of America's population is directly involved in the production of food and fiber that feeds our Nation. That partnership is between farmworkers and farmers and dairy men and women. I know because my family represents a third-generation family. Farmworkers are some of the hardest working individuals you will ever meet. I know because I worked side by side for years growing up on my family's farm. It is simply wrong that they be subject to living and working under a shadow of uncertainty and fear of being deported. That is not right. This bill is not about the border. The border has been a problem for decades. It is not about amnesty. This is an earned basis to have legal status in America. I have spoken with the hardworking men and women and their young children who work to put food on America's dinner table, and I've seen the hope in their eyes, the hope that we can pass this legislation to provide them legal status, hope for a normal life free of the dread of family separation that too often happens with deportation that hangs over them every day when they go to work, hope for a chance to change their reality and reshape their story. This measure involves protections. It involves E-Verify. It involves an opportunity to reform an H-2A program for a reliable workforce for American agriculture. We owe it to the individuals who do so much for us. I ask that you support this legislation.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, a year into this pandemic and the world is still reeling. It has created a deep economic crisis for American families and small businesses, and economic disparity continues. Now that vaccines are being administered, with millions inoculated so far, hope for gaining the upper hand over this disease is on the horizon. Last weekend, I saw firsthand the smiles on teachers' faces as they lined up for their first dose of the vaccine. Desperate to see their students, they hold out hope that these shots can get them safely back into the classroom for the first time in a year. Food workers, those who we deem essential to putting food on America's dinner table every night, need to be vaccinated as well. I talked to them about their desire to do their jobs without fear of getting sick, and getting back to a life of normalcy, but we must do more to help Americans. Our communities are hurting. Families, businesses, cities, and States need economic relief now. This week, we will pass the American Rescue Plan to get immediate relief to struggling Americans. It provides the resources needed to help people get by and return to work. This bill will help our economy move again, and I am proud to support it.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak on behalf of the American Rescue Plan. The critical need to provide economic relief for struggling Americans and communities across the Nation could never be more evident than it is now. A year into this pandemic, the world is reeling from the fallout of the coronavirus pandemic. This time last year, we had a handful of people that had, sadly, passed away from COVID-19 as it slowly made its way across the country. This week, we mourned over 500,000 lives lost and countless family members and loved ones that will be impacted forever, and we are still not out of the woods. Yesterday evening, we appropriately honored and recognized those Americans who lost their lives. This pandemic has created a deep economic crisis for American families and small businesses. Economic inequities continue to accelerate, sadly. Our communities are hurting. They are hurting, and the time for decisive action is now, just as we did in a bipartisan effort last year. Think about it. America--America, the richest country in the world, and yet the numbers are staggering. Over 18 million Americans are receiving unemployment benefits. Nearly 24 million Americans are going hungry, including 12 million children--12 million children. And nearly 40 million Americans cannot afford to pay the rent and possibly face eviction. We must get more funding to our States and local governments so they can help those immediately impacted. This will allow us to begin to open our schools safely, which we must do, in addition to the rest of our economy. This is a key component of President Biden's American Rescue Plan, which I support. Now, let me repeat. The American Rescue Plan will work to keep communities safe and reopen schools with a robust vaccine plan for the public and educators that has been absent until the last 6 weeks. In my own circumstance, my own constituency, the city of Fresno, in the heart of my district is facing a multi-million dollar budget shortfall. Like most cities across the country, they will be forced to cut jobs, including those of first responders, without Federal support. The same is true in the communities of Madera and Merced, also in my district. The American Rescue Plan will bring nearly $200 million to these two local communities combined, providing critical relief needed to provide funding for services their residents require, my constituents. Now that vaccines are being administered, with millions inoculated so far, we have to continue to build on that momentum, for gaining the upper hand over this disease is on the horizon if we stay the course and implement the plan the President has outlined. But we must do more to help Americans than just providing vaccinations. Obviously, that is at the front lines, and we will produce more vaccines in the next month and in the next 2 months so that, as the President said, 300 million Americans, by this summer, will have the ability to be vaccinated. But economic relief is part of the necessity to help them, and the American Rescue Plan does that. Now, I have heard some of my colleagues on the other side talk about the concerns about the fiscal impacts to our economy. I am a Blue Dog. I believe that we need to have fiscal discipline, and I believe, after being here 17 years, that happens when Democrats are willing to deal with expenditures and Republicans are willing to deal with revenues. And unless we do deal with those two things together it isn't going to happen. The last administration indebted this Nation over $7.5 trillion--$7.5 trillion in the last 4 years. I didn't hear much discussion during that time about the fiscal deficit. But I learned another thing in 17 years here; when Democrats are in charge, the debt matters. But when Republicans are in charge, who cares? So let's get real about this deficit. America is hurting today, and it needs our support and it needs our help. Over 140 executives of major American corporations are supporting this plan. Over 140 of the major companies in America think that this is necessary, the $1.9 trillion, to get this economy going and to put our country back on a track that we can be safe from this pandemic. So I urge my colleagues to do the right thing and to vote in favor of the American Rescue Plan, as we did previous measures on a bipartisan effort.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to talk about the urgent need to address doctor shortages in rural and medically underserved communities throughout our country. The current pandemic and problems with vaccine distribution have highlighted the dangers behind a lack of access to the quality of healthcare in these areas. I am working to change that right now. Unlike producing personal protective equipment, it takes years to train a physician. This week, I will introduce legislation to invest in medical education and to create new medical schools throughout this country and in underserved communities like mine in the San Joaquin Valley. This bill will help curb the shortfall of physicians in rural areas by enabling medical students to stay close to home. Studies increasingly show that students who can study close to home are more likely to stay there and practice there upon graduation. If we want to keep the promise that every American who wants a vaccine will get one, then we need to have more doctors, nurses, and medical providers throughout our country. This legislation would do just that. Helping my constituents and keeping them safe is my number one priority. I will continue to do whatever it takes to make that happen. This is important legislation, and I ask my colleagues to support this legislation in a bipartisan basis.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, as an elected Member of Congress, I take the same oath as the President of the United States: ``I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic.'' I believe President Donald Trump violated that oath of office on and before January 6, 2021. So, it is with heavy heart that I vote, for the second time, to impeach. This decision was not done rashly. I have listened to my constituents, who overwhelmingly support impeachment, and consulted with Republicans, Independents and Democrats. It is my firm resolve that in America no person is above the law. We must hold the President accountable for his actions. The President violated his oath of office when he worked to invalidate the votes of American citizens with false and unproven accusations of voter fraud over the last three months. He took it further by inciting a violent mob to attack the Capitol on January 6, 2021. In a well-documented public address, he urged his supporters to march on the Capitol and to do everything they could to stop ``a fraudulent election'' that the Congress was voting to certify, as we are required to do under the constitution. The result was an attack on our Nation's Capitol, our symbol of democracy here in the United States and around the world. This group of thugs, took over the Senate chamber, desecrated the Speaker's office, paraded the Confederate battle flag in the rotunda and killed a Capitol Police officer. The President has blood on his hands. We cannot let his action go unchecked. If we do not act, we send the message that our oath does not matter, and we will erode the very principles this great country was founded on. It didn't have to be this way. The President could have adhered to the norms that all his predecessors followed by acknowledging that he lost the election fair and square. A transfer of power from a defeated incumbent to a victor of a different party has happened throughout our history starting with John Adams conceding to Thomas Jefferson. As his predecessors did, the President could have committed to a peaceful transfer of power. He could have avoided putting our country through this traumatic and frightful confrontation by speaking the truth. No person is above the law. President Donald Trump lied to the American people and then urged a violent group of traitors to overthrow our legislative branch of government and overturn an election. For these reasons I sadly voted to impeach the President of the United States.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Mr. Julio August Sandino, who passed away on November 17, 2020. Julio was a longtime Merced County resident and United States Army veteran. Julio was born on September 29, 1933 in Merced, California to Guido Sr. and Carola Sandino, both Italian immigrants. He was the youngest of three boys. Growing up on a farm, Julio understood the value of hard work and the art of growing the best onions and tomatoes. After being a four-year basketball varsity player for Merced High School, setting several school scoring records and receiving the best student award in woodshop, Julio joined the United States Army from 1953 to 1955 as a corporal stationed in Germany during the Cold War. During that time, he made the regimental basketball team. Julio returned home after serving honorably in the Army and met the love of his life, Rita Albiani, a daughter of Italian immigrants from Livingston, California. In 1956, they were married at Our Lady of Mercy Church in Merced and started a family of their own. Julio started his own business, Sandino's Custom Cabinet Shop, which he owned for 40 years until retirement, and Rita worked as an accountant and managed medical offices. Julio started his love of woodwork on his family's farm and converted animal and storage sheds into his cabinet shop. He made beautiful pieces of cabinet work that was well-known in Merced County, Tahoe, San Francisco, and Yosemite. During his career, Julio later became a general contractor and built many beautiful homes in Merced, even building his family's custom homes. Family was Julio's biggest joy in life. Every Sunday he would spend time with his extended family over Italian dishes that featured his award-winning tomatoes, garlic, and onions, prepared by his wife and mother. He would go mushroom hunting with his brother Guido, fishing with his friends, loved teaching basketball to his children, spending time with his lodge brothers, and winning bocce tournaments. Julio was preceded in death by parents, oldest brother August who was killed in combat during World War II, and his best friend and older brother, Guido Jr. Julio is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Rita, daughter Julie Sandino and husband Rusty Areias; grandchildren Alexis and Austin; and son David Sandino and wife Georgina Valencia. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Julio August Sandino. His service in the Cold War, and love for his family and community will be remembered by those who had the pleasure of knowing him. I join his family and friends in honoring his great life.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Mr. Peter Edward Jones who passed away on October 20, 2020. Peter was a husband, father, and decorated veteran of World War II and the Korean War. Peter was born on January 26, 1926 in Emmetsburg, Iowa to John and Madeline Jones. He was one of five children, and was raised in Sacramento, California where he graduated in 1943 at Grant Union High School. With the onset of World War II, Peter decided to join the Navy at 17 years old. He believed that a strong commitment to service was his way of showing support for his country. During his time in the military, Peter was stationed at the South Pacific during the war and served until 1946. From 1950 to 1951, Peter served in the Korean War where he joined in the reserves. He was honorably discharged and decided to move to Fresno and in 1948, Peter married the love of his life, Antoinette Catherine Caglia. They raised five children, Gerard, Peter, Janice, Timothy, and Richard. Antoinette and Peter were married for 67 happy years until her passing in 2015. Peter worked for The Fresno Bee for 57 years and 3 months, served Our Lady of Victory Church as a lector for many years and even helped to build the covenant to the church. Peter lived for 95 years dedicating his life for others, his country, and loving his family. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to join me in celebrating and honoring the life of Peter Edward Jones. His love for his country, family, and his strong faith was evident. I join his family and friends in honoring his great life.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of longtime Fresnan Gerard Lozano, who passed away on October 1, 2020. He was a proud husband, community leader and friend. Gerard was born on May 11, 1970 in Fresno, California. He grew up with four brothers, his father Michael, and mother Dolores. He attended Our Lady of Victory Elementary School and graduated from San Joaquin Memorial High School. Gerard was known for being kind, always happy and caring. He had a strong faith and was a genuine leader by example. These qualities continued throughout his life and during his career. Gerard began his career as the Governmental Affairs Director for the Fresno Association of REALTORS interacting with many people in the community and legislative representatives in the Central Valley. My office and myself, had the pleasure of working alongside Gerard for many years. He was always a knowledgeable and professional individual, willing to help for the community in any capacity that he could. Gerard's hard work was evident throughout his career. He was promoted to Executive Vice President after being employed over 20 years at Fresno Association of REALTORS, and in 2016, Gerard was honored with the Presidents Award by past president, Colleen Wiginton. In 2002, Gerard met the love of his life, Donna or ``Dolly'' as she was affectionately known. Their love for each other flourished throughout their marriage. Gerard was a football fan for the Oakland Raiders and San Francisco Giants. He enjoyed music and was a drummer. Gerard is survived by his wife, Donna; parents Michael and Dolores Lozano; brothers Daniel, David and wife Marisela; Raymond and wife Kristin; Benjamin and wife Esmeralda; sister-in-law Linda Donabed and husband Jim. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating and honoring the life of Mr. Gerard Lozano. His kindness and leadership will be remembered by those who had the pleasure of working with him. I join his family, friends, and the community in honoring his great life and legacy.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Mr. Faiv Ntaj Muas (Dang Moua), who passed away on October 13, 2020 at the age of 71. Dang was a longtime Merced County business owner and an active member of the Hmong community. Dang was born on April 12, 1949 in the war-torn country of Laos to Muas Paj Cai and Ntxhais Lauj. Dang was the second of three sons, and had an elder half-brother, five sisters, four half-brothers, and two half-sisters. Although Dang faced a difficult childhood, he always had a heart for service and helping others. After completing grade school, he attended college near a hospital that treated injured soldiers. Over time, Dang's soft-spoken demeanor was recognized by his peers and he was hand-picked as a leader by the Hmong community to provide guidance to fellow students. As the war continued, Dang and his fellow students were no longer safe at their school, His quick thinking allowed opportunity for him to save nine people out of Samthong, where the enemy soldiers were approaching. Their journey led them through the mountains, and numerous towns to seek shelter until they were finally safe. In 1971, Dang married the love of his life, Paj Lis and began training with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and was recruited by the United States Embassy to work in USAID until 1975. In April of 1975, part of Dang's family moved to a refugee camp in Thailand for safety, after it became clear the situation was unsafe for anyone aiding the United States. Eventually, Dang and part of his family, were sponsored by Hatcher Memorial Baptist Church and moved to Richmond, Virginia in 1977, before settling in Merced, California. Once they settled in Merced, Dang attended college, and worked at Del Monte Farms. Dang and his wife opened their first business, the first Hmong grocery store in Merced, Moua Oriental Market, followed by the first Hmong farm and slaughterhouse, Moua's Hog Slaughter Farm and Moua's Cattle Farm in Livingston, California. His success and influence in the community reached political figures, Hmong community, and many individuals. Dang will be remembered in the community for helping others, his work in establishing the nonprofit organization Merced Lao Family Inc., filling a void for Hmong businesses in Merced County, and being a role model to so many. He was a leader and a caring individual that will be remembered by all who had the pleasure to work with him. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Dang Moua. His commitment to the community of Merced County has left a lasting impact on many. I join his family and friends in honoring his great life.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Rafer Johnson, a notable athlete and Gold Olympic medalist recently passed away on December 2, 2020. Johnson was born in Hillsboro, Texas on August 18, 1934. When he was nine years old, he and his family moved to Kingsburg, CA. While attending high school, he was on the football, basketball, and baseball teams. He served as Class President both in junior high and high school. Johnson competed in a high school invitational decathlon and won the event. He also won the 1953 and 1954 California state high school decathlon meets. After graduating from Kingsburg High School, he attended the University of California, Los Angeles. He joined Pi Lamda Phi fraternity and served as Student Body President. He competed in his first decathlon in 1954 as a sophomore at UCLA. In 1955, he competed and won a gold medal at the Pan American Games in Mexico City. He was the first Black American to be the flag bearer for the U.S. Olympic team. He continued his athletic journey and eventually won a silver medal in the 1956 Olympic decathlon in Melbourne, Australia. In 1960, he competed once again in the Olympics, held in Rome, Italy. He faced a unique challenge, as he competed against a fellow UCLA alumni and friend, Yang Chuan-Kwang. While both posed fierce challenges, Johnson won the gold medal. For his Olympic performance, Johnson received the James E. Sullivan Memorial Award, as the outstanding amateur athlete of 1960. After graduating from UCLA and finishing his decathlon career, Johnson embarked into a new chapter and began his film and media career. He worked in motion pictures as a sportscaster and then as a sports anchor on the local NBC affiliate in Los Angeles. Johnson also worked on the presidential election campaign of U.S. Senator Robert F. Kennedy and was there when he was assassinated. He was able to subdue the gunman. He later got involved in the Special Olympics, serving on the organizing committee. In 1979, he was asked to join the board of the committee working to bring the 1984 Summer Olympics to Los Angeles. Johnson had a bright and impactful career with many great achievements. In 2005, Johnson was awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters (L.H.D.) degree from Whittier College. In November 2014, Johnson received the Athletes in Excellence Award from The Foundation for Global Sports Development, in recognition of his community service efforts and work with youth. Rafer Johnson Junior High School in Kingsburg, California is named after Johnson, as are Rafer Johnson Community Day School and Rafer Johnson Children's Center, both in Bakersfield, California. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating and honoring Mr. Rafer Johnson. His legacy and teachings will live in many for years to come. I join his family, friends and the community in celebrating his great life and legacy.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of longtime Fresnan and former State Assembly member, Bruce Bronzan, who passed away on September 28, 2020. Bruce was born on September 28, 1947 in Fresno, California. He was a distinguished alumnus of California State University, Fresno and was a former Student Body President in the late 1960s. While serving as President, he found his calling for public service. This passion was the beginning of a lifetime career of strong leadership in service. Bruce served on the Fresno County Board of Supervisors from 1975 until 1982, when he was elected to the California State Assembly, representing the Fresno area. During his time in state legislature, he focused on health care and mental health policy. He held key positions including Chairman of the Assembly Health Committee and Select Committee on Mental Health. As a result, he wrote hundreds of pieces of legislation relating to health care. He played a key role in the passage of the Mental Health Reform Act. After serving in the State Legislature for eleven years, Bruce became the Associate Dean for Administration and Development at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) from 1993 to 1997; where he furthered his efforts and commitment for health care education and policy. Bruce's major objective was to help build a model health care delivery system to address the shortage of primary doctors in the San Joaquin Valley. His contributions helped transform UCSF Fresno into the institution that is now. His vision created a path for the future of health care. Additionally, he also served as a Senior Scholar with the UCSF Phil Lee Institute of Health Policy Studies and President of Trilogy, a healthcare internet company that developed web portals for health and human services for counties and states. Bruce is survived by wife, Jeri; his son Forest Bronzan and wife Laura; and daughter Chloe Bronzan. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating and honoring the life my friend Mr. Bruce Bronzan. I join his family, friends and community in honoring his great life and legacy.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the career of my good friend Max Rodriguez. Supervisor Rodriguez is a longtime Madera County Supervisor for District 4 and a trusted leader in our community. Supervisor Rodriguez is retiring after serving on the Board of Supervisors for the past 15 years. Supervisor Rodriguez was born and raised in Madera, California. He graduated from Madera High School in 1958 and went to Fresno City College. Shortly after, Supervisor Rodriguez took jobs working in the fields in order to provide for his family. He then began working for American Forest Products, known as North Fork Sawmill, for 25 years. During his time at the sawmill, Supervisor Rodriguez was the Financial Secretary and President of the Lumber and Sawmill Workers Union. In 1985 when the sawmill closed, Supervisor Rodriguez went back to school and became a Farmers Insurance agent until his retirement in 2008. Supervisor Rodriguez was appointed to the Madera District Fair Board by Governor Jerry Brown, appointed to the Madera County Mosquito Abatement Board from 1982 to 2001, and served as a Madera County Planning Commissioner. In 2003, Supervisor Rodriguez decided to run for Madera County Board of Supervisors and won his current seat in 2004. During his tenure on the board, he has prioritized his constituents and worked hard for the people of Madera County. He was past member and vice-president of the Pan-American club, former volunteer for American Heart Association, past member of New Hope Madera, NAACP Branch 1084, and Madera Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. He is currently the Chairman of First Five Commission, Madera County Transportation Commission, Local Agency Formation Commission, Tesoro Viejo Conservancy and sits on the High-Speed Rail Heavy Maintenance Facility task force. During his free time, Supervisor Rodriguez is an active member of St. Joachim's Catholic Church and enjoys spending time with his wife Sarah and their family. He also loves to fish and camp and enjoys being in nature. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the career of Supervisor Max Rodriguez. His love for public service and Madera County is evident throughout the course of his career. I join his family and friends in congratulating Supervisor Max Rodriguez on a well-deserved retirement and wish him continued health and happiness in this new phase of life.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate a great leader and friend, Dr. Joseph I. Castro, President of California State University, Fresno (Fresno State) for being appointed as the eighth chancellor to lead the California State University System. Dr. Castro was born in the city of Hanford in the San Joaquin Valley of California. He is a grandson of immigrants and farmworkers from Mexico, son of a single mother and the first in his family to graduate from a four-year institution. He earned his bachelor's degree in Political Science and a master's in public policy from the University of California, Berkeley, and a Ph.D. in higher education policy and leadership from Stanford University. For 23 years, Dr. Castro has worked in the University of California system. He was Vice Chancellor of Student Academic Affairs at University of California San Francisco. Castro led UCSF programs that specialized in academic and health care needs of its talented students. He was part of the founding staff at University of California, Merced and held key leadership positions at three other UC campuses including Berkeley, Davis and Santa Barbara. Mr. Castro currently serves as the President of the California State University, Fresno since 2013. Under his leadership, the university has become a national leader in recruiting, supporting and graduating students from diverse backgrounds. The university has also received national recognition from various publications, such as the Washington Monthly and U.S. News and World Report. Dr. Castro's leadership and hard work has been recognized by various organizations. He was named CSU President of the Year by the California State Student Association, City of Fresno District 4 Man of the Year and a recipient of the Ohtli award, the highest honor granted by the Government of Mexico to leaders in the United States. Dr. Castro has made a difference in the lives of many students at Fresno State and across California. He has paved the way for many students and has inspired others to make a difference in higher education and in their communities. Dr. Castro is the first California native and first Mexican-American to be appointed to oversee the 23- campus university system, which is the largest in the nation. He will begin his duties as chancellor on Jan. 4, 2021. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Chancellor-Select, Dr. Joseph I. Castro. We also congratulate his family including his wife, Mary and three children, Isaac, Lauren and Jess. Although his presence will be missed at Fresno State, I look forward to seeing the success of the CSU system under his leadership.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of longtime Fresnan and Pearl Harbor survivor, Edward Lane, who passed away on September 6, 2020. He was a proud husband, father, public servant, leader and a survivor. Edward was born on December 2, 1936 in San Francisco, California. Although he was not born in Fresno, he always considered it home. Growing up, he frequently moved across the country due to his father's military career, but he always returned to Fresno. He graduated from San Joaquin Memorial High School in 1954 and attended Fresno State in 1958 with a degree in marketing. Edward's life took an interesting journey, beginning with the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. His father was responsible for overseeing a military hospital in Hickam Field, Hawaii when World War II began. His home was only two blocks away from Pearl Harbor. During the attack, an anti-aircraft shell landed on his family's house. Fortunately, it did not explode and he survived. Telling the ``December 7th story'' was an annual event for the family. Edward often thanked his parents and big brother, Mike, for teaching him work ethic. These skills led him to his 36-year career with the State of California's Employment Development Department (EDD). He was appointed by several governors to serve in many senior management positions during his tenure. He worked to establish EDD as an important and active asset in communities throughout the state and maintained his belief in the positive power of government to respond to the needs of individuals and the community at large. Edward was a big sports fan. A Fresno State season ticket holder for over 60 years, he rarely missed home football and basketball games. However, his biggest passion was tennis. He was active on and off the court for over 47 years in the Fresno tennis community. He captained two teams that won national championships and served as a club president. He loved animals and had pets ranging from dogs, cats, to a small rhesus monkey from South Africa. Edward is survived by his wife and best friend for over 60 years, Jean Lane; children Brian, Valerie, and David; grandchildren Michael, Nicholas and Alyssa Bavaro; son-in-law Vince Bavaro; and daughter-in- law Lucy Gonzalez. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating and honoring the life of Mr. Edward Lane. His leadership and story will be remembered for many years to come. We join his family, friends and community in honoring his great life and legacy.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam, Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Major League Baseball legend, Hall of Famer and military veteran, Mr. George Thomas ``Torn'' Seaver. He was a beloved father, husband, friend and one of the finest baseball pitchers our country has had the pleasure of watching. Tom was born in Fresno, California to Betty Lee and Charles Henry Seaver. He attended Fresno High School and played on the baseball team. After graduating high school, Tom worked for his father's company in the raisin industry before joining the United States Marine Corps Reserve in 1962 stationed at 29 Palms in California until 1963. He served his eight-year commitment, remaining in the reserves until 1970. Tom attended Fresno City College, while working and serving in the reserves. He began the 1964 season two inches taller and 30 pounds stronger at 6'1'' and 190 pounds and quickly caught the attention of scouts. Tom had an 11-1 season, throwing at 90-mph for the Fresno City baseball team. He was recruited to the University of Southern California (USC) under the guidance of legendary coach Rod Dedeaux. His talent and potential as a pitcher was evident from the start. In his first season at USC, Tom went 10-2, striking out 100 batters in 100 innings. He was drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers before returning to school for his junior year. He was signed by the Atlanta Braves in 1966, before landing with the New York Mets via a lottery. In 1967, Tom was named an All-Star and won the National League Rookie of the Year award, after a 16-13 season and 2.76 earned run average. The Met's new manager Gil Hodges immediately saw Tom's potential and the two formed a strong bond. He was a part of the ``Miracle Mets'' that won their first World Series in 1969. From 1968 to 1976, Tom had a record nine consecutive 200-strikeout seasons. Tom would go on to play 11 seasons for the Mets, 6 seasons for the Cincinnati Reds, 2 seasons with the Chicago White Sox, before retiring with the Boston Red Sox. A right-hander who earned the nickname ``Tom Terrific,'' Tom won 311 games and struck out 3,640 batters over his 20-year major league career. He earned 12 All-Star selections, led the National League in wins 3 times. He also won three National League Cy Young Awards. He was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1992, earning 98.8 percent of the ballots cast by members of Baseball Writers Association of America. This was the highest voting percentage ever earned at that time. In 1988, the Mets honored his storied career by retiring Tom's number 41. After his career in baseball, Tom worked as an announcer for the New York Yankees and the New York Mets. Tom and his wife established a winery in Calistoga, California, Seaver Vineyards along with his family. Tom enjoyed time with his family and his vineyard. He is survived by his wife, Nancy, and their two daughters, Sarah and Anne. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating and honoring the life of baseball legend, Tom Seaver. His legacy will be remembered for many years to come. He truly was terrific. We join his family, friends and community in honoring his great life and legacy.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 95th birthday of Dr. Noel Smith from Fresno, California. Noel is a doctor, father and proud advocate in the community. Dr. Smith is a native of La Brea, Trinidad. He graduated from Howard University with a Doctorate in Medicine, magna cum laude. In 1958, he fulfilled his residency at the Fresno County General Hospital, in which he served as an obstetrician/gynecologist for the people of West Fresno. In this position, he provided much needed medical care to the medically underserved. Dr. Smith has previously worked at Fresno Regional Medical Center, Valley Medical Center and St. Agnes Hospital. He is a member of both the National Medical Association and the Golden State Medical Association. He has shared his wisdom and been an active member of the community throughout his career, serving on numerous boards and commissions. These include the Edison-Bethune School Board, Infant of Prague Adoption Agency, Fresno Model Cities Board and Mayor's Bi-Racial committee. He is also a proud life member of the NAACP. Dr. Smith devotes his life and career to serving the Fresno community and he continues to share his knowledge by supporting those in need. He helped establish the West Fresno Health Care Coalition and served as Chair of the Fresno Model Cities Board and the T.B. Health Association. He is a recipient of various honors and awards for his service to the community including, the 2010 African American Museum Trailblazers award and the Health award from the NAACP Fresno Board. Dr. Smith and his wife, Gloria are the proud parents of eight children, Noel Jr., Quincy, Robert, John-Stephen, Jennifer, Anthony, Sybil and Ronald, grandparents of 15 grandchildren, and 7 great grandchildren. Madam Speaker, it is with great respect that I ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to join me in celebrating Dr. Noel Smith's 95th birthday. I ask that you join me in wishing Dr. Smith and his family continued success, health and happiness.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today along with my colleague, Mr. Garamendi, to recognize Mr. Dick Stephens on the occasion of his 100th birthday and celebrate his family's long legacy of shipbuilding in California. Dick is a world champion sailor, designer, and shipwright in addition to a proud husband and family man. Dick was born into a boat-building family and gained an appreciation for the trade from a young age. He was always curious and felt at home playing in his father's boatyard. In 1928, at the tender age of 8, Dick salvaged a boat and transformed it, all while ingraining in him a passion for boats. At the end of World War II, Dick and his three brothers, Theo and Barre took over their uncle Roy Stephens' company, The Stephens Brothers Boat Builders and Designers Company. Their uncle oversaw the construction and launching of over 700 vessels. The Stephens brothers contracted with the military during the Korean War and beginning of Cold War hostilities in 1953. They built many ships for the U.S. military during this period. In the 1960s, the brothers sold their company to the Wrather Corporation. After a short while, they bought the company back and quickly gained customers with their quality work. Dick was known for always intently listening to his customers and making their dream yachts come to life, while using the finest materials. They built 19 Farallone Clippers and won races in one of his vessels many times on the San Francisco Bay. In the 1960's, boat design was shifted to angular cruiser loops, and Dick's cruisers continued on into the 1970's like the 48' Triple Crown. In 1974, the Stephens Brothers created their very last wooden boat, the 50' Egret. A new era of aluminum and fiberglass began grabbing the attention of many designers. In 1975, they launched its first aluminum hull yacht. This success created over 20 more pieces of finely engineered art, with the start of the 85' Defiance, one of their most popular pieces of work. After 85 years of success, it was decided in the spring of 1987 that the Stephens Brothers would close their business. Throughout his career, Dick has always had his loving wife Donna by his side. Many have enjoyed his pieces of art in his shipbuilding skills. In addition to shipbuilding, Dick is also a world champion sailor. He won a three-race series in the International Open Cass with a boat he designed, Opps. Madam Speaker, it is with great respect that I ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to join us in celebrating Dick Stephens' 100th birthday and his work to further the shipbuilding industry. His love for boats and his customers endures to this day and he continues to be embraced by boat lovers far and wide. We ask that you join us in wishing Dick and his family continued health, happiness and success.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of a former Fresno State basketball coach, Mr. Boyd Grant, who passed away at the age of 87. He was a father, friend and one of the finest coaches in history. Boyd, who grew up in the agricultural region of Idaho, had a love for basketball. He played for three seasons at Colorado State University as a guard, after transferring from Snow College in Utah. After college, he returned to his alma mater to serve as the assistant basketball coach, a position he held for nearly 12 years. In 1961, the teams coached by he and legendary Coach Jim Williams, won a conference championship and participated in four NCAA tournaments. From 1972 to 1974, Mr. Grant served as an assistant coach at the University of Kentucky, before beginning his head coaching career at the College of Southern Idaho, a junior college that he led to a national championship a year later. Boyd furthered his career by serving as a highly successful head coach at California State University, Fresno. During his tenure, he led the Bulldogs to three Western Athletic Conference championships, three NCAA Tournaments and the 1983 NIT Championship. He was inducted to the Fresno Athletic Hall of Fame in 1993. He was also inducted into the Colorado State Athletics Hall of Fame and the National Junior College Basketball Hall of Fame. Boyd's leadership and coaching strengthened Fresno State's basketball program. The team led the nation in scoring and defense in his first season and were ranked in the top 10 in every one of his nine years as coach. His career at Fresno State included a record of 194-74 over his nine seasons, including the winning the NIT championship in 1983 and earning spots in the NCAA Tournament in 1981, 1982, and in 1984. He left Fresno State in 1986 and a year later, was named head coach at Colorado State, where he led the Rams to two NCAA tournaments within the four years he was there. After a long and successful career, he retired from coaching in 1991. Boyd impacted the lives of people who surrounded him, with many of his former students describing him as a father. Boyd lived a great life doing what he loved the most, coaching and playing basketball. He is survived by his wife, Mary Jean; their son, Kevin, and two daughters Leslie and Lori. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating and honoring the life of a basketball legend, Mr. Boyd Grant. His teachings and legacy will be remembered for many years to come. We join his family, friends and community in honoring his great life and legacy.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam, Speaker, I rise today along with my colleague, Mr. Cox, to honor the life of a great doctor and San Joaquin Valley resident, Dr. Robert Shankerman, who passed away September 19, 2020. He was a father, brother, doctor and a caring leader in our community. Robert was a renowned doctor who spent many years championing disadvantaged and rural communities. He graduated from Tulare University and completed his post-graduate education at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota; one of the nation's best hospitals. Since 2014, Robert served at the United Health Centers (UHC). He was the Chief Medical Officer for UHC of San Joaquin Valley and was responsible for clinical operations at 21 health centers in the Central Valley. UHC provides services to more than 125,000 patients in Fresno, Tulare, and Kings counties. During his time at UHC, Dr. Shankerman established the UHC/UCSF Family Practice Residency program at the Parlier Health Center, where he also provided services to patients. He recruited, trained and placed medical practitioners as the organization grew, which helped lead to its current success. While in this position, he mentored more than 155 medical professionals, including UHC medical staff, recent graduates from various residency programs, along with national and international transfers. Robert was affiliated with the UC San Diego Medical School and served as an Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine. Previously he was Chief Medical Officer for Clinica Sierra Vista. He was a diplomat for the American Board of lnternal Medicine and certified HIV specialist. In 2001, he was awarded the prestigious physician recognition award from the American Medical Association. Robert was highly respected by many people across the San Joaquin Valley. He dedicated most of his time treating and helping migrant workers and underprivileged communities. He worked long shifts ranging from 14 to 15-hour days and was committed to helping others. He is survived by his partner of more than 20 years, Dr. Regis Debarros, a physician with United Health Centers; his father Floyd Shankerman, sister Cindy Loewenberg; and brothers Steven and Jason Shankerman. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join us in celebrating and honoring the life of a great champion and doctor, Dr. Robert Shankerman. His teachings and legacy will be remembered for many years to come. We join his family, friends and community in honoring his great life and legacy.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, I recognize a Latino leader who has been an inspiration and a role model to thousands of students in my home of Fresno, the San Joaquin Valley, and that is Dr. Joe Castro, president of Fresno State University, home of the Bulldogs. Yesterday, Dr. Castro was named the newest chancellor of California State University system after spending 8 years at my alma mater at Fresno State with great success. He is the first native of California and the first person of color to head the California University system, the largest in the entire Nation. Raised in an immigrant household in Hanford, California, he is the first in his family, like so many, to graduate from college. His story is the story of the American immigrant. He serves as a mentor and an inspiration to thousands of first- generation college students who have followed in his footsteps, folks like members of my family. His leadership led to many accolades for Fresno State in recent years as the university continues to be one of the best colleges in the country. A passionate and fierce advocate for students, his selection to lead the largest public university system in the country is a testament to his leadership and the respect he has throughout the Nation as one of the leaders in higher education. He will leave behind a legacy that was best expressed when he first came to Fresno State and he told the student body: ``Be bold.'' ``Be bold.'' Congratulations, Joe and Mary, a real team, a Bulldog team, and always Bulldog proud.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today during Hispanic Heritage Month. We know that millions and millions of Hispanics for generations have made so many contributions to our country in every way of life. Today, I want to recognize the distinguished career of Coach Tom Flores, a trailblazer in the Latino community in the sport of professional football. A son of immigrants from Mexico, a native of my hometown, Fresno, California, Coach Flores was a gifted high school and collegiate athlete and later made an indelible mark on professional football. Playing for the Oakland Raiders' silver and black, Flores became the first Hispanic starting quarterback in the NFL. But his success didn't stop there. After ending his playing career, he went on to Super Bowl XI as an assistant coach for the Raiders. Whether they be the Oakland Raiders, the Los Angeles Raiders, or now the Las Vegas Raiders, we all know the silver and black, with a great deal of pride. Four years later, he led the team to victory as a head coach, becoming the first Hispanic head coach to win a Super Bowl. He did it twice. To this day, he is only one of two people in history to win multiple Super Bowls as a player, an assistant coach, and a head coach. Despite his success, he never forgot where he came from. That is Tom. We hope and pray the third time is a charm and that he will be inducted into the NFL's Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. Since leaving professional football, Coach Flores has used his influence to bring educational opportunities to the valley home where he came from through the Tom Flores Youth Foundation. He has raised nearly $2 million to support local school districts, science, art, and athletic programs. He never forgot where he came from. Before the pandemic, he was also scheduled to be an honored guest for Fresno's annual FresYES Fest. Sadly, despite such a decorated career, he was passed over for induction in the Professional Football Hall of Fame back in February. It was not the first time. In January, I introduced legislation calling for the recognition of his significant achievements in the sport and for his induction into the Professional Football Hall of Fame. Recently, the Professional Football Hall of Fame Selection Committee announced Coach Flores as the single finalist in the 2021 class in a new coach category. This development is welcome news and opens the door for Coach Flores to receive the overdue recognition he deserves. So, we recognize the important contributions Hispanic Americans have made to our culture, to our communities, in every way of life in the United States. I urge my colleagues to support the Tom Flores resolution to honor the invaluable contribution he has made to his community, to our country, and to America's game. It is time. Honoring Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the passing of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, RBG. For all Americans, I believe Friday night was a sad evening as we learned the news. Justice Ginsburg truly made a difference, both during her tenure on the Court and through her long career. Justice Ginsburg inspired people. Justice Ginsburg inspired women. Justice Ginsburg inspired young women. Justice Ginsburg broke the glass ceiling in so many different ways through her fierce advocacy for women's rights and civil justice. Justice Ginsburg's keen ability to build bridges between conservatives and liberal Justices garnered the respect of all jurists, regardless of their political philosophy, something we should take note of here in the people's House of Representatives, that we bridge the gap between our political differences and remember that we are Americans first. Ruth Bader Ginsburg always reminded us that we are Americans first and that equal justice under the law is always the credo of the American way. Justice Ginsburg served in so many ways for so many examples on how to balance the scales of justice. Our Nation will mourn Justice Ginsburg's loss and honor her legacy for generations to come, I truly believe, because she is a role model for all.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to one of the greatest baseball players to ever play the game, ``Tom Terrific'' Seaver, a member of the Miracle Memorable Mets championship season in 1969 that won the World Series. He passed away peacefully earlier this month. A native of my hometown, Fresno, California, that has had a lot of terrific baseball players, no one ever played the game any better than Tom Terrific. He was a graduate of Fresno High and Fresno City College. During that time, he became a first-round draft pick in 1966. But in between that time, he served in the United States Marine Corps. Of the many seasons that he played in baseball, he had 12 All-Star appearances, won multiple Cy Young Awards, and was voted into the Baseball Hall of Fame when he first became available on a near- unanimous decision--a gifted and once-in-a-lifetime player. As I said, he served honorably in the Marine Corps. Last year, he retired from public life after being diagnosed with dementia. His passing has been a terrible loss for the community of Fresno and all baseball fans across the country. Please join me in celebrating the life and career of one good person, Tom Seaver. Devastating California Wildfires

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I also rise today to draw attention to the devastating wildfires burning in the West, throughout Washington, Oregon, and California, and other Western States, and, more precisely, this fire, the Creek fire, that is burning near my district in the central Sierra Nevada. Let me first salute the incredible men and women, the firefighters, the first responders, all of those volunteers who are doing their best, over 14,000 of them throughout California, and many more throughout Western States. They are putting their lives on the line trying to protect us and trying to protect our forests. Last Friday, I toured the devastation firsthand and spent 6 hours in the southern perimeter of the Creek fire in the Shaver and Huntington Lake areas. I witnessed the devastating damage that has been done, not only in this picture that is illustrated here, but the many homes that have been lost, as you see here, 1400-degree tornado firestorms that literally melted homes, such as this one here, and many, many other structures. This summer alone, clearly, has indicated that the numbers of fires that we see, not only in California, but throughout the West, are growing both in quantity and the scope of the devastation. This summer alone, with record heat and extreme conditions made worse by climate change, California has experienced 6 of the largest 20 wildfires in its history--and, sadly, most of those wildfires are still burning. In the foothills in the high Sierra Nevada outside my home in Fresno, California, the Creek fire continues to grow, and we only have, as of today, about 15 percent containment. But that is similar not only in California but Oregon and Washington and other States, and it is making the air quality something that you have to see to understand and believe. When I left Monday, the air index was 304. So, what must we do? We must learn the lessons from these devastating fires, these wildfires. And I think, first of all, it requires much better forest management. We have tried to make changes within the U.S. Forest Service, but much more needs to be done in terms of resources to better manage our forest. We also must do better land management planning. We have hundreds and thousands of people in the last 30 years living where they didn't live before, and it requires better land use planning. And, finally, we must address the issues of climate change. When we have extended draught periods and dry conditions, the beetle bark and other factors play into a situation which, in California, from Lassen down to Lake Isabella, we have over 100 million dead trees, and that creates the fuel that adds to the problem. These are among the lessons that we must learn to better manage our forests for future generations to come.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the retirement of Salam Nalia, an accomplished international businessman and community advocate in the Central Valley. Salam began his education at the age of five through missionary school. He then earned a bachelor's degree from Karachi University in Pakistan, a bachelor's degree in accounting and master's degree in business administration from Fresno State. He has extensive experience and success in the development and implementation of accounting systems, fiscal and grants management, and leadership within nonprofit management. Salam has developed projects focused on maximization of economic resources and development for distressed communities. Some of his domestic projects include the establishment of a certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) and assisting in establishing a credit union in Fresno, California. Other international projects include the consortium of the UNOCAL gas pipeline project, Petro chemical project and a construction project in Singapore. Salam has expanded his experience and network internationally as he served as a County Head of Finance for a multi-national company, established international joint ventures, participated in the development of a $2.5 billion eight-country gas pipeline consortium and other projects related to construction, petrochemicals and textiles. He traveled to many countries around the globe, including Western and Eastern Europe, Thailand, Dubai, and Romania. He was invited and recognized by the Romanian government to be the nation's Honorary Consul General. His leadership in the community has made a significant impact. Salam has been involved within the community by serving on boards of several organizations, such as the Fresno Metropolitan Museum, Fresno Arts Museum, Citizens Foundation USA, Central Valley Center for the Blind, and other organizations. For the past 27 years, he has worked for the Fresno Economic Opportunities Commission. He has served as the Chief Financial Officer and an effective leader managing the fiscal affairs within the nonprofit business. As CEO of the Fresno CDFI, he has successfully led the expansion of the operations and help communities develop infrastructure and enhance job potential. Without a doubt, Salam has made a significant impact to progress the economic and human prosperity within the Central Valley. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating and honoring the retirement of Mr. Salam Nalia. I wish Salam and his family continued success, health and happiness in this new chapter of his life.