Jim Costa

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Chairman, I rise to oppose the amendment before us.

Mr. COSTA. Not to oppose the measure, but actually to speak on behalf of the amendment. The issues that have been raised here by this amendment, I think, are valid. There are concerns that have been raised by cattlemen and cattlewomen across the country. I think that, obviously, we all feel that there ought to be a level playing field when it comes to the protection of the Freedom of Information Act. But on the other hand, cattlemen and cattlewomen every day are working really hard to try to do their best to produce the safest and the highest quality beef that Americans do every day and is the best in the world. So we think this amendment is a step in the right direction and would like to support the amendment. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Chairman, I rise to claim the time in opposition.

Mr. COSTA. Yes, Congressman Crawford, I will be more than willing to yield to Chairman Lucas and to Ranking Member Peterson. We appreciate your willingness to work with us together on this effort to ensure that we can deliver resources that are important to our small communities throughout the country that are impacted in this way. I will withdraw the amendment and continue to work with you.

Mr. COSTA. I yield to the gentleman from Arkansas.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Chairman, I rise today to highlight the important and positive reforms in this year's FARRM Bill, that includes the Dairy subtitle, as we try to improve and save money for the Federal Agriculture Reform and Risk Management Act, otherwise known as the 2013 FARRM Bill. I first want to thank Chairman Lucas and Ranking Member Peterson for the terrific work that they've done in cobbling together this bipartisan effort. It's never easy. I can tell you as a grandson of two generations of dairy farmers in California that what American farmers do every day is work as hard as they possibly can to provide the highest value food quality at the most cost-effective level to American consumers, and they've been doing it for generations. The Dairy Security Act of this bill is the result of 4 years of hard work and compromise by dairy producers and other members of the dairy industry across the country. This program is intended to provide a strong, market-based safety net that will keep dairy producers afloat while providing stable consumer prices. The dairy industry--and producers especially--has been a victim in recent years because of dramatic price volatility, and so have the consumers. At the same time, producers have been forced to deal with feed costs that have skyrocketed from $2 a bushel to $7 a bushel, and that has had a dramatic impact. Dairy producers across the country have seen their overhead increase as their profits have remained stagnant. Current Federal dairy policy continues to foster outdated support programs which no longer provide a meaningful safety net or ensure any stability for our dairy farmers or our consumers. In California, my home State, the leading dairy State in the Nation, we have lost 100 dairies as a result of bankruptcy in the last 18 months. Something needs to be done. We need to fix this broken system. This title provides stability to the producers and benefits the consumers as well. It is time to bring meaningful reform, and this measure does this. I ask my colleagues to support this effort as we move along this bipartisan compromise.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today along with my colleagues Mr. Valadao of California, Mr. Cicilline of Rhode Island, Mr. Nunes of California, Mr. Honda of California, Mr. Langevin of Rhode Island, and Ms. Lofgren of California to recognize Dia de Portugal and to again state the importance of a strong relationship between the United States and Portugal. Dia de Portugal celebrates the heritage of the Portuguese people and their descendants and is recognized around the world on June 10th. Vibrant Portuguese communities are scattered across the United States from Massachusetts and Rhode Island to California and Hawaii. The latest census estimates that more than 1.3 million individuals living in the United States are of Portuguese ancestry, and they have been making positive contributions to our society for decades. The ties between the United States and Portugal are critical and date from the earliest years of the United States. Following the Revolutionary War, Portugal was among the first countries to recognize the United States. On February 21, 1791, President George Washington opened formal diplomatic relations, and the oldest continuously- operating U.S. Consulate in the world, since 1795, is in Ponta Delgada on the island of Sao Miguel in the Azores. Portugal is an integral member of the European Union, a founding member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), and an important strategic partner in the Mediterranean and beyond. As such, the United States-Portugal defense relationship is strong and must remain so. Central to this relationship is the U.S. Air Force's 65th Air Base Wing at Lajes Field on Terceira Island in the Azores. Having bolstered the United States' and its allies' control of the Atlantic since World War II, Lajes Field is a valuable asset that must be maintained. Mr. Speaker, we join with the people of Portugal and our Portuguese American constituents in wishing everyone celebrating across the globe a wonderful Dia de Portugal.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the life of Charlotte Tashjian Aaron, who passed away on June 7, 2013 at the age of 97. Charlotte's thoughtfulness, generosity, and overwhelming love for others will be greatly missed. Charlotte was born into a family with very strong Armenian roots. The Tashjians immigrated to the United States to escape the Armenian Genocide. They settled in Madera, California, and ran a small family business, ``Simon Cleaners.'' After Charlotte graduated from Madera High School, she decided to stay close to home and work for her parents. Charlotte's faith in God and her religion were extremely important to her. For over 50 years she was a part of the Fidelis Society, and served as a choir member at the First Armenian Presbyterian Church in Fresno, California for almost 70 years. Charlotte was singing in the choir when she saw the love of her life, Isaac, for the very first time. Isaac and Charlotte got married, and raised three beloved sons: James, Edward, and Richard. For Armenians, family is everything, and Charlotte loved her family dearly. She leaves behind her sons and daughter-in-laws: Heather, Kris, and Nancy; her grandchildren: David, Michael, Janelle, Stephanie, Steven, John, Kirsten, and Danielle; and her brother Ed and her sister- in-law, Wilma. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect that I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to pay tribute to the life of Charlotte Tashjian Aaron. Charlotte will undoubtedly be missed many, and she will always be in the hearts of those who love her deeply.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Marcus Johnson as he prepares to retire from his position as Superintendent of the Sanger Unified School District. Marc will be leaving after more than 35 years in public education in the Central Valley. As Superintendent of Sanger Unified, Marc transformed some of California's lowest performing schools into some of our best. The education reforms that he spearheaded are now considered a model for schools across the country. Marc's dedication and commitment to improving education standards in the Central Valley have been nationally recognized including by the American Association of Student Administrators who named him the 2011 National Superintendent of the Year. A California native, Marc lives in the small community of Reedley, where at age four he moved with his parents and where his wife of 37 years, Penni, taught at Thomas Law Reed Elementary, before retiring last year. He is a graduate of Reedley Community College, California State University, Fresno and Fresno Pacific University, where he received his Masters in Education. Marc began his career in education at American Union Elementary, where he taught for 16 years and later served as the district's superintendent and principal. In 1999, Marc was named the Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources for the Sanger Unified School District, before assuming the role of Superintendent of the district in the fall of 2003. When Marc took over as Superintendent, Sanger Unified was struggling. A year into his tenure, the district was designated for program improvement by the State of California. Under Marc's leadership and guidance, Sanger Unified implemented education reforms including adopting the professional learning community model focused on student learning, high quality instruction, and teacher collaboration. Within two years Sanger Unified exited program improvement status and its schools have since gone on to win many accolades and awards. Recently, Sanger Unified became only the second school district in the country to have every one of its middle schools named to the Department of Education's prestigious ``Schools to Watch'' list. Although Marc is retiring as Superintendent of Sanger Unified, he will continue the fight to improve education standards in the Central Valley as the interim co-director of the John D. Welty Center for Educational Policy and Leadership. In addition, Marc is retiring to spend much needed time with his wife, his three children, and his four grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the distinguished educational leadership of Mr. Marc Johnson. The work he has done for the Sanger Unified School District will have a lasting impact on our children in Fresno County and in the entire State of California.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today along with my colleague, Mr. Denham to recognize Dee Dee D'Adamo as she is honored for her years of service to California's San Joaquin Valley. Dee Dee was recently appointed by Governor Jerry Brown to the State Water Resources Control Board. This appointment is well deserved as Dee Dee has served in numerous roles to better the lives of the people of California and of the San Joaquin Valley. Dee Dee graduated from the University of California, Davis in 1982, and continued her education at the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law. After receiving her Juris Doctorate, Dee Dee served on several committees for the California State Assembly. Dee Dee also served as a visiting lecturer at California State University, Stanislaus. She taught for the Department of Politics, so her courses ranged from U.S. government, to state government, and environmental policy. Before her new appointment, Dee Dee served on the California Air Resources Board (CARB) as the Law Member since 1999 when she was appointed by Governor Gray Davis. She championed language on several of CARB's recommendations to the legislature. A couple years ago, CARB approved a cap and trade program that was aimed at reducing the state's greenhouse gas emissions. Dee Dee had a prominent role in ensuring that rural communities with agricultural based economies received their fair share of revenues. Dee Dee also served the Valley at the federal level, working for several Members of Congress. She was the legislative director for Congressman Gary Condit from 1990-1991 and was his legal counsel from 1994-2003. Following her career with Representative Condit, Dee Dee was Congressman Dennis Cardoza's senior policy advisor for nearly ten years. When Representative Cardoza retired, Dee Dee joined Congressman Jim Costa's staff. She served as the senior policy advisor for his office up until the day she was appointed to the State Water Resources Control Board. In 2012, Dee Dee was honored as Woman of the Year for the 17th Assembly district by Assemblywoman Cathleen Galgiani. The knowledge and expertise that Dee Dee exhibits is truly admirable, and we are grateful to have had the opportunity to work with her over the past couple decades. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join Mr. Denham and myself in recognizing Dee Dee D'Adamo for the outstanding contributions she has made to our Valley and our entire nation. Dee Dee will undoubtedly prove to be an asset to the Governor's Administration.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I represent the San Joaquin Valley of California where our business is growing healthy, safe foods. It's the breadbasket of America. But even in our agriculturally rich region, many of the same families who labor to produce these crops struggle to feed their children. This is part of the tragedy of hunger in America. I have witnessed firsthand the challenges these families face living on the average SNAP benefit, which is $4.50 per day. While I am a strong supporter of passing a farm bill, I have serious concerns about what the proposed cuts mean for 16.2 million children nationwide who are faced with hunger. We must and we can do better. I hope we pass the farm bill in the House next week. And if so, I will be fighting to make sure that these children have a seat at the table when we go to conference with the Senate. Budget choices are a reflection of our priorities. In a time of such economic hardship, we can and we must make sure that those most vulnerable in our society are fed properly.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of the bi-partisan, H.R. 1038, the Public Power Risk Management Act of 2013. This bill allows producers, utility companies, and other non- financial entities (swap counterparties) to continue entering into energy swaps with government-owned utilities (aka: utility special entities) without requiring them to register with the CFTC as a ``swap dealer'' solely because of their dealings with government-owned utilities. There are over 2,000 municipal, state and locally-owned, not-for- profit electric utilities throughout the United States, which deliver electricity to one in every seven electricity customers in the United States, over 47 million people. Further, the vast majority of public power companies serve communities with populations of 10,000 people or less. Utility special entities should be allowed to keep using traditional swap counterparties, such as natural gas producers, independent generators, and investor-owned utility companies to help manage their operational risk related to the generation of electricity or production of natural gas. I urge my colleagues to support this commonsense, bipartisan legislation.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, this weekend throughout America, in cemeteries across the land, we will celebrate and memorialize those men and women who have served, who are serving, and those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in giving their lives to protect our Nation's freedoms embodied in our Constitution and our Bill of Rights that we hold most dear. While Memorial Day is a time when family and friends gather to be together, we know it is much more than that. This Memorial Day, we should all give thanks to the sacrifices that our men and women have made who have served in our Nation's military. We should say thanks to our family members, to our neighbors, to all those who have served, and we must always, always remember those who are no longer with us. We in our country, I believe, can never say thank you enough, for this great country we live in is made dear for all of those who have made those sacrifices over 238 years. So this weekend, as we gather across the land to be with our families and friends, let us pay thanks, let us take evidence of what it means to be an American, knowing that at the end of the day the bonds that we share in common as American citizens are much stronger than whatever differences we may have. God bless those who are serving and those that have served and those who are no longer with us. God bless our country.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, for the first time in recent history, Congress has a real opportunity to pass comprehensive legislation to fix our broken immigration system. Legislation being backed by a bipartisan group of Senators has done what many previous proposals have failed to do, and that is to gain broad support and to balance the needs of all of the interests of our country. I have been working closely with Members on both sides of the aisle in the House and in the Senate and with agricultural organizations and farm workers to make sure that the concerns of California's agricultural communities are met. The Senate's plan provides a legal and stable workforce for agricultural and critical protections for those who work very hard every day to put safe, healthy food on our Nation's dinner tables. Without these provisions, it would have been a deal-breaker for our valley. Naysayers might say it's time to wait, but that's motivated simply by political interests, not reality. It's time for immigration reform now. It's time for the House to act and to come together. It's time to pass this bipartisan effort to fix America's broken immigration system.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Joe Cox for his many years of dedication to the Los Banos Future Farmers of America (FFA) as they celebrate the 50th Anniversary of their win at the FFA Nationals Contest. His commitment to young participants of the FFA program as well as many other community activities, make Joe Cox most deserving of this honor. Joe Cox was born in Booneville, Arkansas in 1925. During the Great Depression, his family--including his two sisters, parents and grandmother--decided to leave Arkansas. They traveled across the country for two years, camping along the way, until they made it to Reedley, California. Once the family settled in Reedley, Joe was able to return to school. Joe's family moved around the Reedley area, wherever there was work for his father. During one year, his family moved eight times. Even though his life was at times unstable, he was inspired by his father's commitment to working hard and supporting his family. This lifestyle also sparked his devotion to his life in education and his empathy for students who had to overcome obstacles. As Joe graduated high school and World War II ensued, Joe decided to enlist in the Navy. He was assigned to the radio operators training after just five weeks of basic training. After his education was complete, Joe volunteered to serve on submarines. Out of one hundred volunteers, Joe was chosen as one of five to attend submarine school. He was assigned to a tender ship, the U.S.S. Orion, and the U.S.S. Batfish, which patrolled off the coasts of Japan. When the war was over and he was discharged, Joe joined his brother- in-law in the farming business. After farming for several years, Joe decided that he wanted to continue his education. He attended Reedley College and then California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) in San Luis Obispo. Joe was in his first quarter at Cal Poly, when he was called to serve in the Korean War. After two years, he was able to return to Cal Poly and complete his degree and teaching credential. Joe began his teaching career as an Ag Science teacher with Los Banos High School in 1955. He went on to become the Agriculture Department Chair, which he turned into a highly respected program. In the spring of 1963, Joe coached the Los Banos High School FFA team to a first place finish at the state dairy judging contest, and then went on to win the National title in Waterloo, Iowa. Joe continued to take summer classes to further his knowledge in the education field. He earned a master's degree in education from Cal Poly in 1957. Then in 1981, he earned his doctoral degree in education from the University of Southern California. Joe shifted his career into administration when he took the role of Assistant Principal at Los Banos High School in 1963 and Principal in 1969. One of Joe's assignments was to focus on adult education, which eventually led him to a position at the new Merced College Los Banos campus to run the evening programs. In 1982, he took the position of Principal at the junior high in Los Banos where he stayed until his retirement in 1988. During his retirement, Joe has done more than many people do in a lifetime. He served for 12 years on the Los Banos Unified School Board. In addition, he served as President of the Los Banos Golden Agers, District Governor in Rotary, Chair of the California Seniors Legislature and most recently National President of the U.S. Submarine Veterans of World War II. The City of Los Banos recently acknowledged his longtime service to the community by inducting him into the Los Banos High History-Society Hall of Fame. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect that I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to recognize the leadership and commitment Mr. Cox has shown to Los Banos and the Future Farmers of America. He personifies a man of principle and integrity. Joe Cox is a role model for all of us, and it is with great pride that I recognize him for everything he does for our community.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 90th ``Festa do Divino Espirito Santo'' or the Festival of the Divine Holy Spirit in Dos Palos, California. This annual festa is a lively gathering that promotes family reconciliation and peace, through prayer and charity. The celebration began in the early 1920s when Azoreans began to emigrate from the Azore Islands to Dos Palos. In 1923 the Divino Espirito Santo, DES, Association was incorporated, and it stands as one of the city's oldest organizations. The Dos Palos DES has been successful over the past nine decades due to the donations and support from residents, business owners, dairymen, and ranchers. The organization is supported by individuals of all backgrounds and faiths. The money that DES raises goes to their annual celebrations, scholarships for young men and women, and parks for children. They also provide assistance to those who are in immediate need. Dos Palos DES is known for its sense of community and comradeship. Neighbors are like family in Dos Palos, and there is no question that there is a sense of loyalty between everyone. Each year, the Festa do Divino Espirito Santo serves as a place for citizens to come together, appreciate their town, and enjoy each other's company. The traditional meal of sopas is served to over 2,000 people. As someone with a strong Portuguese background and up-bringing, I truly admire all of the efforts made by Dos Palos DES. The individuals who have put together this wonderful celebration must be recognized for all of their hard work and dedication. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the Festa do Divino Espirito Santo as residents from all over the Central Valley celebrate the 90th celebration. These wonderful traditions are passed down from generation to generation, and we can expect that Dos Palos DES will be hosting celebrations for many years to come.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of legislation to provide the U.S. Secretary of Transportation with the flexibility to transfer certain funds to prevent reduced operations and staffing of the Federal Aviation Administration. While it is imperative that the U.S. Congress consider and pass legislation to replace the entirety of the sequester, this legislation will help ensure the safety and efficiency of our nation's air transportation system. Specifically, I rise to affirm the intent of this legislation that grants the Secretary of Transportation the ability to use unobligated balances of the Airport Improvement Program account to halt the furloughs of air traffic controllers, to maintain the midnight air traffic control tower shift at airports across the country including Fresno-Yosemite International Airport, and to prevent the closure of 149 contract air traffic control towers including Castle Airport's contract air traffic control tower. Maintaining service at all contract and non-contract air traffic control towers is central to the authority provided in this bill to ensure the safety of our air transportation system. Many Members of Congress have expressed concerns over the closure of contract towers, reduced service at non-contract towers, and furloughs of air traffic controllers, all of which contribute to the overall safety of our nation's air transportation system. The safety and efficiency of our skies have been put at risk and it has become incumbent upon the Congress to direct this authority to the Secretary of Transportation.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Ronald Taylor on the event of his Inauguration as the sixth President of Merced College, one of the premier community colleges in Central California. Dr. Taylor began his exemplary educational career in Kyoto, Japan, where he taught English and Linguistics. He also taught at the University of Virginia in the English Department, which at the time was among the top three English Departments in the world. Dr. Taylor and his family decided to return to California, where he moved his way up from student grader to full time professor to Assistant Dean of Instruction for Letters and Social Sciences at Santa Rosa Junior College. Dr. Taylor has also served in the capacity of Vice President of Academic Services at Chabot College and Dean of Instruction at Reedley College. Before coming to Merced College, Dr. Taylor served as the Superintendent-President of Feather River College. During his tenure at Feather River, Dr. Taylor effectively handled fiscal challenges, implemented a new approach to managing enrollment, and cultivated a communicative and positive atmosphere at the campus. He also successfully lifted a warning sanction that was placed on the college from the Accreditation Commission of Community and Junior Colleges. Throughout his career, Dr. Taylor has demonstrated an ongoing commitment to the development of the highest standards for the education of his institution, demonstrating through his regular interactions with staff and the community his passion for higher education. Dr. Taylor has extensive experience engaging with diverse populations and has supported activities to encourage cross-cultural understanding. Being an active member of his community is something of utmost importance to Dr. Taylor. He is an active Rotarian, and has served on many citizen task forces. Dr. Taylor is an ardent advocate for the community college agenda and for rural communities and has served on several statewide commissions. His current focus is on developing effective strategies to improve student success. He sees his primary strength as building consensus and community on campus as a means to foster student success. It is my distinguished pleasure to welcome Dr. Ronald Taylor, who brings a wealth of experience in college governance to Merced College and wish him good fortune throughout his tenure as President. I ask my colleagues to join me in wishing him well as he embarks on this new journey to educate our future leaders.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. I rise today in recognition of the Armenian genocide. Tomorrow, April 24, marks the 98th anniversary of the horrific Armenian genocide that took place approximately between 1915 and 1923. The citations, the history, and the atrocities are well documented. They have been recognized by the European parliament and historians around the world. Sadly, I believe the United States Congress has not gone on record, despite repeated attempts, in recognizing this horrific genocide--the first genocide that took place in the 20th century. As we all know, history has a way of repeating itself, both for the good and for the bad. While the Armenian genocide was the first in the 20th century that was documented, we all know what took place later with the Holocaust and the attempted genocide of the Jewish people. And today, throughout the 20th century and into the 21st century, we see repeated attempts where genocide has been practiced in Africa and in other parts of the world. It is not enough simply to condemn those actions, but rather as a people we must come together and acknowledge that there have been very, very difficult and sad times when man's inhumanity to their fellow man has taken place. What has occurred at the Holocaust has been documented in museums here in the United States and in Israel. The attempt to make that similar reflection on the Armenian genocide is still a work in progress. This week, the Armenian communities throughout America will remind us once again that this injustice to mankind should not only be acknowledged and documented but should never, ever be forgotten. And that's what we will do tomorrow in recognizing the 98th anniversary of this Armenian genocide. I grew up in a community in the San Joaquin Valley with many wonderful Armenian families. As a young boy, I learned about the history from our neighbors, my friends. And while, sadly, the Turkish Government today is still in denial as to the events that took place between 1915 and 1923, I would hope some day, just as the German Government and others have recognized the fact that there are parts of our history that we would just as soon forget or overlook, we know that if we recognize them, we have greater assurances that they will not repeat themselves. That's why I rise today to recognize this very sad, sad event that took place in the 20th century. I think we reach out to all the Armenian communities not only in the United States but throughout the world and stand with them in realizing that their suffering, their pain, and the loss of some 1 million-plus Armenians has been all of our collective loss. I want to close by saying that tomorrow we recognize the 98th anniversary. We continue to urge our fellow Members of Congress to recognize that we should go on record, in my view, just as we have gone on record on numerous other important events that have taken place in our Nation's history and in world history. I think tomorrow all Americans will stand with our Armenian Americans and Armenians throughout the world in recognizing that, in fact, this genocide did take place; and our thoughts and hearts and prayers go with those who have lost their lives.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today along with my colleague Mr. Nunes to recognize Dr. John Welty as he is honored for his nearly 22 years of service as President at California State University, Fresno (Fresno State). His hard work and dedication on behalf of the students, staff, and faculty must be commended. John Welty grew up on a small farm in North Central Illinois. From a young age, his parents always stressed the importance of education and literacy. Tragically, when John was only ten years old, his father passed away. As the eldest of six children, he strived to make his father and the rest of his family proud, so his studies became a top priority. In 1965, John became the first person in his family to graduate from college with a bachelor's in Social Science from Western Illinois University, Macomb. John continued his education at Michigan State University by obtaining his master's in College Student Personnel Services, and in 1974, Mr. Welty became Dr. Welty when he graduated from Indiana University, Bloomington, with a doctorate in Administration of Higher Education. Prior to his tenure at Fresno State, Dr. Welty held several other positions in university administration. He was an Admissions Counselor at Michigan State University and Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs at Southwest State University. Dr. Welty also served at the State University of New York as Director of Residences, Associate Dean for Student Affairs, and Assistant Professor of Counseling and Student Development. Additionally, he served as Vice President for Student and University Affairs at the Indiana University of Pennsylvania, and subsequently served as the President for seven years. Dr. Welty's many years of experience and expertise prepared him well to serve as President at Fresno State. To say that Dr. Welty made a difference around the Fresno State campus is a vast understatement. With the help of faculty and staff, he truly changed Fresno State for the better, and we must express our gratitude for all of his efforts. In the last 22 years, Dr. Welty has increased enrollment, and each year reduced the number of students that drop out. The university currently offers 62 bachelor degrees, 45 master degrees, and three doctoral subject areas. Students from all over the nation are drawn to Fresno State for a number of reasons, including the Smittcamp Family Honors College within the university, an honors programs created with Dr. Welty at the helm. Dr. Welty's leadership ensured that students of all cultures and socio-economic backgrounds knew that there was a place for them at Fresno State--by doing this he served as a catalyst for the success of our Valley and the enrichment of the university environment. Two-thirds of the students enrolled at Fresno State will be the first in their family to graduate from college. Furthermore, Women's athletics and women's intercollegiate sports program have grown and flourished under Dr. Welty's time as university president. His legacy at Fresno State will live on for years to come because of his commitment to student success. Additionally, several institutes and centers at Fresno State have been created during Dr. Welty's tenure, including the Lyles Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, the Central Valley Educational Leadership Institute, the Central Valley Health Policy Institute, and the Maddy Institute. These centers provide students with imperative resources and knowledge in their respective fields. With Dr. Welty and dedicated staff at the helm, the university received private gifts totaling more than $360 million which supported innovative programs, scholarships, faculty chairs, and research facilities. The Campaign for Fresno State surpassed its goal and raised $214.2 million to help offset declining state resources. In addition to all of his successes at Fresno State, Dr. Welty has accomplished many feats within the California State University, CSU, System, and he has served in various capacities to help in educational improvements nationwide. He is the former chair of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges senior accrediting commission, and former chair of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities board. Dr. Welty has previously served on advisory groups to the United State Departments of Agriculture and Education, and formerly chaired the Renaissance Group, a national organization of universities dedicated to improved teacher education programs. Dr. Welty is also the current Chair of the Cal State Online Advisory Board, as well as the CSU Gender Equity Monitoring Committee. Furthermore, he has worked diligently on a nationwide effort to reduce substance abuse and improve prevention on college campuses. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join Mr. Nunes and myself in recognizing Dr. John Welty for his great service and commitment to Fresno State and its surrounding community. As a Fresno State alumnus, I am extremely proud of the accomplishments that have been made under Dr. Welty's guidance, and I thank him for his many contributions toward improving California State University, Fresno.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Judge Hugh Michael Flanagan who will retire from the Merced County Superior Court after thirteen years of service. His service and dedication to the people of central California is to be commended. Judge Flanagan was raised in Fortville, Indiana where he completed his grammar and high school education. He received his Bachelor's degree in Engineering from Purdue University and his Master's degree in Engineering from Michigan State University. Judge Flanagan is also a graduate with distinction from the U.S. Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island. While in the United States Navy, Judge Flanagan worked as a Senior Systems Engineer with the Deep Submarine Rescue Vehicle Program and the Omega Navigation System. He completed his career with the United States Navy as a Captain, JAGC, USNR. Following his service in the military, Judge Flanagan earned his law degree from Loyola Law School in Los Angeles. He worked as a lawyer for five years in Los Angeles before opening his private practice law firm in Merced in 1975, which he maintained for 25 years. He was elected to the Merced County Superior Court in 2000, where he was able to continue his lifelong tradition of public service. Being an active member of his community is something of utmost importance to Judge Flanagan. He is a Past President of the Merced County Bar Association and the Merced Rotary Club and has been active in numerous other civic organizations and fundraising activities. His invaluable service to our community illustrates his helpful nature and commitment to the betterment of Merced County. In 1962, Judge Flanagan married his beautiful wife, Norma Colegrove Flanagan in Champaign, Illinois. Together, they have four grown, married sons and six grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring Judge Hugh Michael Flanagan for his efforts and dedication to the Superior Court of California and the County of Merced. He exemplifies the best of what our nation has to offer and his dedication to justice is truly admirable.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, during National Park Week, we celebrate, perhaps, America's best idea and remember that these parks belong to all the people of America. Since they are part of our national heritage, it is every American's obligation to ensure that we preserve these national treasures for the next generation. Yosemite is one of the crown jewels of our national park system, and it has a special place in the hearts of Californians, as well as this Californian. Today, I'm introducing a bill with Senator Dianne Feinstein that would expand Yosemite National Park to include 1,600 acres that were originally intended to be part of the park. This would restore the park to its original vision and protect its most vulnerable western border. Our bill has the broad bipartisan support of local government, State officials, and many other groups. It has been said that there is nothing more American than our national park system. With this bill, we are restoring this national treasure to its original boundary and showing that we remain dedicated to this truly American idea.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, on Monday, in Boston, we were reminded how vulnerable we all are as Americans and how important it is that we stay together. Today, I rise to recognize the Merced Community Violence Intervention and Prevention Task Force. This hardworking organization in the San Joaquin Valley that I represent is the 2013 recipient of the Lois Haight Award of Excellence and Innovation from the Victims' Rights Caucus, of which I am a cochair. The task force is an innovative collaboration of local leaders that was formed in 2006 in response to gang-related violence throughout the Merced community. The task force makes Merced a safer place by educating the community about violence, promoting character development, and providing information to families and, most importantly, our youth. From gang awareness workshops to Merced County's first anonymous ``text a tip'' line, the task force has contributed greatly to our Merced community and throughout the area. On behalf of the Victims' Rights Caucus, congratulations and thank you to the Merced Community Violence Intervention and Prevention Task Force.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Valley Crime Stoppers for the tremendous efforts they have made to help crime victims in our Central Valley. During Crime Victims' Rights Week, we are reminded of the bravery of crime victims and we honor those who advocate on their behalf. Valley Crime Stoppers has built strong relationships with the city of Fresno, local media, and law enforcement. After a robbery, drive-by shooting, or other crime is reported by the news, citizens are encouraged to call the police or Valley Crime Stoppers if they have any information concerning the incident. Victims and bystanders have a safe place to turn in Valley Crime Stoppers because it is an anonymous tip line. It is an unfortunate truth that victims are often fearful to share information with law enforcement because they have been threatened by their offender. Valley Crime Stoppers provides victims with an alternative, so they can tell their story without fear of retribution. Educating and bringing awareness to residents are important missions of Valley Crime Stoppers. They have put together several campaigns that aim to lower crime in the Central Valley, including a television promotion that brings awareness to the very negative consequences of children being exposed to domestic violence. Another example of a Valley Crime Stoppers campaign is a poster that aims to keep neighborhoods safe by getting guns out of the hands of criminals. These campaigns, combined with other efforts made by Valley Crime Stoppers, have led to 9,598 arrests made and 461 guns recovered from the streets. Residents have been given the tools to act as change agents to keep the city of Fresno and the entire San Joaquin Valley safe. In addition to keeping citizens engaged, Valley Crime Stoppers pays individuals for tips that lead to a criminal arrest. As Co-Chairman of the Victims' Rights Caucus, it is my honor to recognize the good work of Valley Crime Stoppers and to thank the board members at Valley Crime Stoppers for their support and activism. These individuals sincerely care about victims' rights and keeping our neighborhoods safe. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Valley Crime Stoppers for their contribution to our Valley. Their advocacy for crime victims has not gone unnoticed. Valley Crime Stoppers has truly made a difference in our Valley, and it will continue to do so for many decades to come.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Chairman, I want to thank the ranking member, Congresswoman Napolitano, for her efforts on this legislation, Chairman Doc Hastings, as well as the chair of the subcommittee, Tom McClintock, and the author of this measure, Congressman Tipton, for trying to bring folks together. Mr. Chairman, people from every walk of life are looking to Congress today to see if we can come together to deal with any of our problems, whether they be big, small, or in between. I rise today to support legislation, I think, that does that. This isn't the biggest legislation we'll deal with this year, nor is it the smallest; but it's something that will help America's energy policy. Our bipartisan bill would amend the Reclamation Act, as has been stated, of 1939, to create a permanent process for how local irrigation districts and water agencies develop this very valuable, renewable, carbon-free energy at our reclamation facilities. And as we're putting together an energy policy that uses all-of-the-above, this becomes an important part. H.R. 678, the Bureau of Reclamation Small Conduit Hydropower Development and Rural Jobs Act, is a bipartisan bill that puts existing resources and knowledge we already have to expand one of the most important tools in our Nation's energy toolbox. Let me repeat that: one of the most important tools in our Nation's energy toolbox. Hydropower is the single largest source of clean, sustainable energy and has been powering our country for over 100 years throughout the land. When most people think about hydropower, of course, they think about the big projects, Hoover Dam and other modern engineering marvels. However, the beauty of this hydropower legislation is it can also be used on much smaller scaled, reliable projects in which we already have the infrastructure in place. Every day, water flows thousands of miles through canals, pipes and ditches across this country. I know--I happen to represent one of those places, the great San Joaquin Valley, in which we have a vast network of dams and reservoirs and canals that provide that water for those who most need it, our cities and our farms. We have an old saying: where water flows, food grows. Every day we miss valuable opportunities to utilize this resource's full potential. This bill changes that. This water could easily be harnessed to provide low-cost, renewable energy to American families and help add to the increment of energy that we need in this country. Currently, small conduit hydropower is largely untapped and underutilized; and it's also, obviously, a clean-energy opportunity. The greatest barrier to unleashing the next generation of hydropower is not technological, because we have made great progress on the technological side. Unfortunately, it's regulatory. Currently, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, otherwise known as FERC, maintains jurisdiction over small projects like those that I am talking about. Serving on the Natural Resources Committee, I've heard from folks across the country say that these regulations are too costly and too difficult to navigate. Obtaining an exception from FERC's permitting rules can take up to 6 months and cost nearly $50,000 for a local water district to pursue. That's unnecessary, and it's also a waste of valuable resources. Our bipartisan bill, again, would amend the Reclamation Act of 1939 to create a permanent process for how local irrigation districts and water agencies develop this very valuable, renewable, carbon-free resource for reclamation facilities. By streamlining the process, the irrigation districts would be empowered to develop small conduit hydropower at no cost to the taxpayers. These projects typically are 5 megawatts and less. Harnessing the power of water already flowing through reclamation facilities would stimulate rural economies, reduce pumping costs for farmers who face those pumping costs every year. I am proud to stand with my colleagues who are supporting this legislation. I want to thank Congressman Tipton for this effort, because it helps us take advantage of existing facilities that are already in place to provide additional resource of power where we need it. If we want to strengthen our energy portfolio, let's start with the low-hanging fruit. This is low-hanging fruit. Let me just give you some numbers. In California there are 20 small hydro projects, should this legislation become law, that would be available to this process. Let me underline that: 20 projects in California that would qualify. In the Nation, the Bureau of Reclamation has determined that there are 373 projects throughout the country that potentially would qualify should this legislation become law. The bill does just that. I urge your support for H.R. 678.