Jim Costa

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Officer Graciela Santillan James as California 16th District's Heroine of the Month, in appreciation of her dedication to making our community a safer place for all. Each month, I recognize a Hero or Heroine of the Month from my district. The deserving individual is someone in the community who goes the extra mile to make a positive difference in the San Joaquin Valley. I believe it is fitting to recognize Officer Graciela Santillan James as October's Heroine of the Month because of her efforts to build important relationships between law enforcement and the Latino community. Community policing is essential for public safety, and Officer Santillan James has been instrumental in communicating with our Latino community. Officer Santillan James graduated from Dos Palos High School in 1992 and acquired her Bachelors of Arts Degree from Saint Mary's College of California in 1996. After college, Officer James attended the California Highway Patrol Academy and graduated in September 2003. She was originally assigned to the San Jose CHP Area Office and was later transferred to the Fresno CHP Area Office. In April of 2009, Officer James was selected for the Central Division Traffic Management Center. She began her service in community policing after being selected for the Central Division El Protector Community Outreach Program in May of 2012. El Protector is a traffic safety outreach program that is directed toward the Hispanic community, focusing on education through open discourse with the community. CHP officers with Hispanic ancestry deliver traffic safety education presentations, organize community events and serve as role models. Officer James is the Spanish speaking spokesperson for the El Protector Program and during her time there she has participated in numerous interviews with both television and radio outlets, including Telemundo and Univision. Along with serving in the El Protector Program, Officer James takes part in many other community organizations as well. She serves as the Vice-Chair for Centro La Familia Advocacy Services and is a member of the Fresno Chapter of the Latino Peace Officers Association, Cesar Chavez Concilio, and El Concilio de Fresno Inc. She has devoted her career to enhancing the relationship between the Hispanic community and the police force, as well as encouraging positive traffic safety behavior. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect that I ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to join me in recognizing Officer Graciela Santillan James for receiving the Heroine of the Month award. Officer James's role in community policing through the Central Division El Protector Community Outreach Program demonstrates her devotion to the valley, and is the embodiment of what this award stands for.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Fresno City College on the occasion of the 100th year celebration ceremony for the restored Old Administration Building. The Old Administration Building is an icon in the landscape of Fresno, made even more special by the fact that it was once on the verge of demolition and saved by a strong effort of the local community. The Old Administration Building was originally built in 1916 as the first permanent structure of the Fresno State Normal School Campus. The building is known for its rich brick surface and open air courtyards. Its beautiful decorative features include handmade hard-burned bricks, classic ornamentation at the entrances and geometric details in the brick on the east and west walls of the auditorium. In 1921, the school developed into Fresno State Teacher's College and eventually Fresno City College in 1956 when Fresno State moved to a new campus several miles north. In 1974, the Old Administration Building was listed in the National Register of Historic places. Unfortunately, the beautiful building stood vacant for more than 30 years due to safety concerns and was boarded up and fenced off. After questions were raised on the possible future of the building, the local community and former students appealed for an effort to restore the prior prestige of the building. Today we are proud to say that we succeeded in our mission and are gathered to celebrate its 100th year. Because of our community's strong desire in the restoration of the Old Administration Building, the project was very close to my heart. During my years in the California State Legislature I worked to raise awareness about this historic building and helped raise funds to restore its beauty. Fortunately, the funding for the restoration was made possible with the passage of Measure E in 2002. In 2007, the first phase of the reconstruction began, and the building underwent structural, mechanical and electrical improvements. It is my great pleasure to congratulate the administration, staff, former and current students on the anniversary of the 100th year of this historic building. I am pleased to see the community come together to save the Old Administration Building from demolition and bringing it back to fully functional use at Fresno City College. On this day, I also want to commemorate the service of all the staff and faculty members who work hard to bring change in the society through education. I send my best wishes for many more years to come.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today along with my colleagues, Mr. Denham, Mr. Nunes, and Mr. Valadao to recognize Mr. Alan ``Al'' Perry for his dedication and commitment to the veterans of California's Central Valley. Since 2013, Mr. Perry has proudly served as the President of the Central Valley Honor Flight. As he embarks on his last trip to Washington, D.C., it is important that we recognize him for all his benevolent work and for ensuring that our Valley World War II and Korean War veterans are given the opportunity to take a final tour with honor. Mr. Perry's dedication to working with veterans stems from his own background as a Vietnam Era veteran. He served as an officer in the Army Medical Service Corps from 1971 through 1973. Mr. Perry has also worked for numerous Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers and has held different leadership positions within the VA. In 1998, Mr. Perry was appointed director of the Central California VA where he served for 13 years, retiring in 2012. Mr. Perry has been recognized for transforming the Fresno VA Hospital to the modern hospital it is now, thus giving more Valley veterans the access and resources they need. Over the years, we have had the opportunity to work closely with Mr. Perry as he continuously champions for veterans of the Central Valley. As President of Central Valley Honor Flight and leader of the trip, Mr. Perry has led the trips for all 11 flights since 2013. Under Mr. Perry's watch, the veterans are always safe and on schedule. Time after time they have memorable experiences as they visit the Smithsonian- National Air and Space Museum and the World War II and Korean War Memorials. To date, a total of 803 WWII and Korean War Veterans have visited D.C. and returned with a 100 percent safety record. For this success, Mr. Perry was recognized as a Rotary International Paul Harris Fellow in 2015. There is no doubt that Mr. Perry will be missed as he has been an integral part of Honor Flight. We commend Mr. Perry for his selfless dedication and work on behalf of our veterans. Mr. Perry, along with Honor Flight volunteers and staff are able to continue this program with the support of local sponsors and our community. It is always a highlight for our offices to help prepare for the arrival of our veterans, and because of Mr. Perry every Honor Flight has been unforgettable. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect that Mr. Denham, Mr. Nunes, Mr. Valadao, and I ask our colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to join us in recognizing Mr. Alan Perry for serving as President and trip leader of Central Valley Honor Flight. Mr. Perry's genuine devotion to our nation's veterans makes him a remarkable individual. We wish him the best of luck as he moves on to his future endeavors.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and applaud the success of Ms. Cayla Rivas. Cayla broke a world record at the American Motorcyclists Association (AMA) Land Speed Grand Championship, which took place from August 27 through September 1, in Wendover, Utah. Cayla broke the 500 modified partial streamlined-pushrod blown gas (MPS-PBG) class with a speed of 134.722 miles per hour (mph) on a Buell Blast 500 cubic centimeter (cc). She is to be commended for this impressive accomplishment and for representing the Valley. Cayla's interest in motorcycle racing began at an early age when her father, Chris Rivas, a National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) runner-up and four time winner on the national circuit switched from motorcycle drag-racing to land speed-racing. Continuing the family legacy, her motorcycle career began at the age of twelve years old. Cayla's father and mother taught her the importance of hard work and commitment as she set her first world record in 2001 going 62.9 mph for the MPS-PF class. Not only is Cayla a world-record holder, but she is also an active member in the Fresno community. As a junior at Fresno Christian High School, Cayla is involved in multiple school and local activities. She is a three-sport varsity athlete as a cheerleader, soccer player, and a sprinter on the track team. In addition, Cayla is a successful artist as she has won grants and awards at local art festivals for her acrylic painting and colored pencil drawings. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to join me in recognizing Ms. Cayla Rivas for her exceptional accomplishments. Cayla's passion for racing and team activities make her a well-rounded individual and source of inspiration and pride for the San Joaquin Valley.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize the valued service of Mr. Henry Lemay. Mr. Henry Lemay is a distinguished military veteran and community member in Fresno, California. Henry Lemay served in the United States Army from 1951 to 1954. Henry fought in the Korean War where he was wounded in Heartbreak Ridge on November 3, 1952 receiving shrapnel in both legs from the waist down. For his recovery, Henry spent six weeks in the hospital in Osaka, Japan before he was sent back to the United States. Henry was honorably discharged by the Army in 1954 and received many medals and awards for his valiant service in Korea, including the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star. In July 2015, I had the honor to present the Korean Ambassador for Peace Medal to Henry for his honored service in Korea and just recently he received the Citizen Soldier Award at the 2016 Fresno City College Veterans Day Ceremony. These are just a few of the many awards and honors Henry has received over the years. For the past few decades, Henry has made an immeasurable impact in the City of Fresno and the veteran community. Henry has a beautiful voice and has been singing at numerous veteran and patriotic events. Not only does Henry sing at veterans' events but for the past fifteen years, he has volunteered his time by singing at the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Naturalization Ceremonies in Fresno. In addition to his community service, Henry has been active in many veterans' organizations and activities. In 1994, he became active in the Honor Guard formed by the VFW. Henry is also engaged in the AMVETS, the DAV, and the American Legion. In my Congressional District, if a veterans' event is planned, it is well known, Henry will be on the agenda, rocking the audience with the National Anthem or God Bless America. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect that I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to pay tribute to Mr. Henry Lemay, an honorable man, a good friend, a man of great faith and a true American Hero. I wish him, his wife Carol and their family much continued success and happiness.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Manuel Cunha of Fresno, California, the recipient of the 2016 Agriculturist of the Year award by the Fresno Chamber of Commerce. Manuel and his family have been in the agricultural industry for two generations. He farms citrus on his ranch in Sanger, California. Manuel has served as the president of Nisei Farmers League since 1996. The Nisei Farmers League specializes in labor, immigration, housing, transportation and environmental issues and represents growers and related businesses of many agriculture commodities. Before his current role with the Nisei Farmers League, he was an educator for thirteen years. Manuel was a teacher at Reedley College and California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly). He received his undergraduate degree from Cal Poly in Crop Science and Agronomy in 1973. He also holds his teaching credential in agriculture education and a master's degree in Agricultural Education from Cal Poly. As the president of the Nisei Farmers League, Manuel has been at the forefront of several important issues in the agriculture industry, including air quality, immigration reform and government regulation. As a member of various local, state and federal committees, Manuel has offered his knowledge to help guide policies and legislation. Manuel serves in a number of civic capacities, as a way to give back to the community he loves. He serves on the Board of Directors for Community Medical Centers of Central California, the largest hospital in the Central Valley. Manuel has also served on the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco and serves as a representative for U.S. Agriculture. These services are only a few of the generous contributions Manuel has made in our community throughout his career. Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor that I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Manuel Cunha for being named the 2016 Agriculturalist of the Year. His great work in the industry and in the community is commendable. I ask that you join me in wishing Mr. Manuel Cunha continued success.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Louie Kee Market in west Fresno, CA. After 93 years of serving the community, Louie Kee Market is closing its doors. For many people, Louie Kee Market is not solely a market, but a friendly place that felt like home for its loyal patrons. The commitment, service, and friendliness that this market has given to people of the Central Valley will be missed. Louie Kee Market, located on 1041 Tulare Street, was founded by Kee and Effie Louie in April of 1923. The market has been operated by four generations of the Louie family. In 1967, Kee and Effie's son, Sherman Louie, took over day to day operations. With the help of three of his children, the Louie family has been able to keep the store running strong. Because of passionate family members and enthusiastic customers, Louie Kee Market has become one of the longest-running family-operated grocery stores in the city of Fresno. Although the store was small, with only five aisles and a long meat counter, it has a big place in the hearts of Fresno residents. The market and its staff have always been friendly, welcoming and helpful in an effort to foster a personal relationship with the community. The market is a staple in the lives of many local residents. The Louie Kee Market was known for giving students in the neighboring high school their first job. This opportunity allowed them to get a strong sense of work ethic and fostered their future as it gave them quality experience at a young age. The Louie Kee Market also had an incredible impact on their employees as they strove to make them feel like family. The Louie's made it a habit to invite their employees for family dinners. In 1982, the Louie's took all of the employees on a trip to Disneyland. This was more than just a small business; Louie Kee Market truly fostered community development and knew how to treat its employees. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect that I ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to join me in honoring Louie Kee Market for 93 years of business. This Fresno landmark will be missed by many in the community. Louie Kee Market has made phenomenal strides to contribute to Fresno County. They have had a positive influence on our community and deserve to be commended for their efforts.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Audra McDonald as she is recognized with the National Medal of Arts award, presented by the President of the United States. The National Medal of Arts award is the highest award given to artists by the United States government, and Audra has undoubtedly earned the prestigious award. Audra's successful acting and singing career began in her hometown, Fresno, California. Audra grew up in California's San Joaquin Valley and was raised by her mother, Anna, and late father, Stanley. Her parents taught Audra and her sister, Allison, the importance of hard work and dedication. At age 9, Audra joined the Good Company Players' junior company, and soon after, landed a role with Dan Pessano and the Good Company Players. Audra is a graduate of Roosevelt High's School of Arts program. She continued her education in the arts at Juilliard School and graduated in 1993. Audra has seen great success on Broadway and in the Opera. In addition to having won three Tony Awards by the age of 28, Audra is the recipient of two Grammy Awards, an Emmy Award, Drama Desk Awards and Outer Critics Circle Awards. Most notably, Audra is the recipient of six Tony Awards, making her the most statue-laden Tony Award winner. Audra's most recent Tony Award was for her incredible portrayal of Billie Holiday in Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill. Not only is Audra an exceptional actress, but also a wonderful person who is involved in various philanthropic endeavors. She actively gives back to her community and seeks to improve the lives of those around her. Audra is a strong champion for the LGBTQ community, ensuring that all people, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, are treated equally. Audra is a source of inspiration and pride for the San Joaquin Valley and our entire nation. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect that I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Audra McDonald as she receives the National Medal of Arts for her lifelong career as a singer and actress.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I also rise today to join in celebrating the 25th anniversary of Armenia. Twenty-five years ago today, Armenia declared its independence from the Soviet Union and, once again, the Republic of Armenia was established. Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to visit Armenia for the first time, and it truly felt like coming home. Why? Well, because it felt so much like the San Joaquin Valley that I proudly represent, where so many Armenians have settled for generations since their diaspora and as a result of the Armenian genocide. Like so many other ethnic groups throughout the world, the people of Armenia are friendly. They are warm and proud of their traditions, culture, and religion. I had the opportunity as a young person to grow up with so many of our good friends and neighbors--the Kezerians, the Abrahamians, the Koligians--whose Armenian heritage I learned as a young person and has added so much not only to the community of the San Joaquin Valley, but to our Nation as a whole. It is an honor to recognize Armenia's 25th anniversary and the Armenian people in the San Joaquin Valley and the communities throughout the Nation and the world. But, Mr. Speaker, I think I would be remiss in this recognition if I did not take this opportunity to urge Congress and the President of the United States to go on record as recognizing the Armenian genocide and the devastating violence committed against the Armenian people over 100 years ago, the first genocide recorded and recognized by historians in the 20th century. Of course, we know from that genocide came the later followed by the Holocaust, and sadly generations have suffered. I want to thank my colleagues for joining in recognizing Armenia's 25th anniversary.

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, as a proud member of the Hispanic Caucus, I rise today to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, the rich history, the culture, and the traditions of the Latino communities throughout our Nation and the world. The United States of America is a nation of immigrants past and present, and the stories of the Latino communities who live in California's San Joaquin Valley are similar to the millions of stories of other immigrant families who have come to our country striving for the American Dream. They have come to our country from around the world. Working together, we can ensure that policies that benefit our economy and keep families together, like the expanded DACA, the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, and DAPA, the Deferred Action for Parents of Americans, as well as comprehensive immigration reform, are enacted. This is important to fix a broken immigration system in America today. These policies would move our country forward and provide a path to earned citizenship--not amnesty, but earned citizenship--so that individuals who only know the United States as their home can achieve the American Dream, the American Dream which is still a shining light around the world for people that are oppressed. Let us never forget what the American Dream embodies not just in our country, but for people around the world. Please join me in celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month and the values, the dedications, and the rich diversity of immigrant families, of which my family was one and the majority of families in our country at some time or another were the proud immigrants from some other part of the world, that make this United States the greatest country in the world today. 25th Anniversary of Armenian Independence

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today along with my colleague, Mr. Becerra to honor the life of Ms. Maria Lourdes Gutierrez of Los Angeles, California. Maria passed away on May 19, 2016 after a year- long battle with cancer. She led a prolific career and will be greatly missed by her family, friends, and entire community. Maria L. Gutierrez was born on September 23, 1954, in Los Angeles, California to Jose and Manuela Gutierrez. As the only child of immigrant parents, Maria's story is a testament to the American Dream. She grew up in East Los Angeles, graduated from Loyola Marymount University with a Bachelor's degree in history and political science, and did graduate work at the University of Southern California. She worked for a short time as a station manager of KMEX in Los Angeles before moving to Fresno in 1998, to serve as the General Manager for KFTV. Her hard work and determination allowed her to rise quickly to the position of Senior Vice President and Regional Director of Local Media for Univision until her retirement in 2012. Under Maria's leadership, KFTV became a leading force in local news. She worked to raise the level of the local Spanish-language television stations during her career and she never stopped working to do so. With her guidance, KFTV won several awards for outstanding journalism, becoming the leading Spanish-language television station in the San Joaquin Valley and earned recognition and honors from various news associations. After her retirement, Maria continued to serve her community. Maria served on the boards of the Fresno State Bulldog Foundation, Fresno State Art and Humanities, the San Joaquin Debate Committee, the National Parks Conservation Advisory Board, and El Agua es Asunto de Todos, highlighting the importance of having a reliable and secure water supply in California. She was also the chairman for the Complete Count committee for Census and was the President for both the Loyola Marymount University Latino Alumni Association and the National Association of Broadcasters Board. Maria's faith and love for family, public service, and her community was guided by her strong belief in shining a light on issues that impact the quality of life in the Central Valley. Her hard work led her to be honored by several groups, including the Girls Scouts of Central California South, The National Women's Political Caucus of Fresno County, and The Fresno Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Maria received various awards, including ``Women of Influence,'' ``Humanitarian Award,'' ``Hispanic Woman of Promise Award,'' and the American Advertising Federation's Silver Medal Award. Maria was passionate about her work and was a fantastic leader, mentor, and friend. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect that Mr. Becerra and I ask our colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to honor the life of Ms. Maria Lourdes Gutierrez. The positive difference Maria made in the lives of others and her community will never be forgotten.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and achievements of John J. Areias who recently passed away at age 95. John was a wonderful father, grandfather, husband, dairyman, and friend, whose commitment to improving the San Joaquin Valley can be matched only by his depth of love toward those close to him. Born on April 27, 1921 to Jess and Genevieve, John was a first generation Portuguese-American from Volta, California. His family moved from Portugal's Azores Islands to California to start their dairy operation. John's father put $10 down on 640 acres of land in western Merced County, where John spent much of his youth learning how to be a dairyman alongside his eight siblings. He was the valedictorian of Volta elementary and graduated from Los Banos High School in 1940. John had an insatiable hunger for community involvement, which began with his high school's student government and the Future Farmers of America (FFA). His leadership position in the FFA granted him many opportunities early on, one of which called on him to present cattle at the California State Fair. This is also where he would meet the love of his life, Mary, whom he married shortly thereafter. John and his brother Jess then moved on to begin their own dairy, which quickly became the first grade-A dairy in the Los Banos Dairymen's Association. Eventually their dairy became one of the biggest and most successful in California, but they never lost sight of the role family should play in their business. John's children played the same part that he did when he was younger, lending a hand in day-to-day dairy operations to support the family business. John was also very politically active in Central California Democratic circles. Because he understood that coming from an immigrant family, as a first generation American, that as a part of citizenship it was important to be involved. He served as Chairman of the Merced County Democratic Central Committee and was a delegate to the Democratic National Convention in 1960, where then Senator John F. Kennedy earned the nomination of his party as candidate for President of the United States. John was also a devout Catholic, serving as the Grand Knight for the Knights of Columbus. John is survived by his four children, Marcia, Lucia, Kathleen, and Rusty, all of whom left John immensely proud of their success. He is also succeeded by his five grandchildren, Evan, Nick, Bianca, Alexis and Austin. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleges to join me in memorializing the life of John J. Areias. His outstanding character as an entrepreneur, family man, and friend will be remembered fondly by those who knew him. He was a leader in California's agricultural community and a role model for the people of the San Joaquin Valley. His life is a testament to the immigrant's story, which is the strength of the American dream. I join John's family in honoring his life, love for our community, and our country

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize my alma mater, California State University at Fresno. Fresno State recently was ranked number 25 this year on Washington Monthly's Top 30 Universities listed in America and yesterday earned the number one spot for graduation rate performance from U.S. News & World Report. This is indeed good news. To use President Joseph Castro's words, the school secured places on these lists by ``being bold.'' From conducting drought research to encouraging community service, offering Ph.D.'s, they have done an outstanding job of integrating campus life and student research to benefit the people of our valley, our State, and our Nation. Additionally, nearly 70 percent of Fresno State's 25,000 students are the first in their family to attend a 4-year university. President Castro and his staff have made it their mission to ensure that all valley students in the San Joaquin Valley of California have access to high quality, affordable university education. As a proud Bulldog, it is an honor to congratulate Fresno State on these very well-deserved national recognitions. I thank the student body and the faculty for being bold and making a difference in our community, State, and Nation. As the red wave likes to chant: Go dogs.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise to call attention today to the ongoing water crisis facing California. The drought is not over, nor has Congress addressed the underlying reasons for the disproportional impact on the San Joaquin Valley communities and the conditions that we face. It has been reported that California could be facing a La Nina condition this upcoming winter. That means that we will have dry conditions and further loss of available water for people, farms, and the environment. We must pass legislation that will be signed into law which will create a rational, balanced water policy, both in the short and long term, that benefits California's farm communities and the environment. I will submit later for the Record a thoughtful op-ed piece written by a constituent and friend of mine, Cannon Michael. He is a farmer in the valley. We share a lot of the same frustration over how Congress has failed to pass legislation to solve California's water problems. This op-ed piece describes exactly how the people of the valley feel, and I urge my colleagues to come together to enact legislation that California desperately needs this year.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I would like to submit the following: Absolutely Nothing (By Cannon Michael, Sept. 8, 2016) California's water supply shortage is a microcosm of what's wrong in U.S. politics. The San Joaquin Valley in Central California is the most productive agricultural area in the world and is the envy of many countries that rely on imported food supplies because their climate or soil is not suitable to sustain farming. But California's water supply to this region has been critically curtailed by the government's inability to manage water resources. That breakdown caused President Obama to visit the Central Valley in 2014 and sit down with farmers to hear about water supply problems. Several members of his administration, including the Secretary of Interior and recently the Secretary of Commerce, have personally visited the area and listened to local business and community leaders talk about their concern for the future of the region. Former Speaker John Boehner and numerous members of Congress, including Senate Energy Committee Chairwoman Lisa Murkowski, have toured the ravaged area and committed to work with their colleagues to assist Central Valley communities. Republican members of Congress, including Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy and Rep. David Valadao, as well as their Democratic colleagues, Sen. Dianne Feinstein and Rep. Jim Costa, have introduced legislation to try to fix the problem. Remarkably, the highest leadership in the country has focused on the water supply problem and a bipartisan group of legislators has been working on legislative solutions. They all claim that the status quo is unacceptable. And what has happened? Nothing. Absolutely nothing. This is why so many people are frustrated with politics as usual and are demanding that things change. We have an identified problem--a water delivery system that has been completely overrun and strangled by a regulatory process run amok. We have a water delivery system that was brilliantly designed and constructed decades ago to withstand five consecutive years of extreme drought, but when the state is blessed with rainfall and snowpack, as we were this year, the system still can't even provide water to communities. As a result, a key part of the U.S. food supply is in jeopardy and millions of Californians are seeing an important part of their state in decline. Many people outside of California often ask why this is happening to such a productive area of the country? Unfortunately, there is no acceptable answer. The current policies restricting water deliveries are intended to protect endangered species, but those policies have failed miserably. Despite the massive redistribution of water from people, schools, communities and farms in a misguided attempt to save a fish, the fish populations have actually declined. After three very dry years, California had a wet winter in early 2016 but rather than using the water to re-supply reservoirs and communities, the government sent over 200 billion gallons of water into the ocean. The result? Dead fish, depleted reservoirs, and dying communities. Nobody wins. This is not a recent problem; the water system has been failing for more than 20 years. Part of the problem is that progress on a solution is being held hostage by federal agencies that are serving narrow interests and creating legal issues that prohibit any progress toward achieving comprehensive solutions. The agencies' water management policies might be defensible if the policies were working and providing some beneficial result. But farmland continues to die out, jobs have been lost, fish populations are at greater risk, land subsidence and other environmental consequences are continuing, and poverty rates are rising in the impacted communities. The result, agencies hide behind the law and the Administration and Congress have been unable to agree on a solution that will reverse this horrible decline. To be fair, there are efforts from both sides of the aisle working to solve the problem. S. 1894 or S. 2533 (Feinstein) and HR 2898 (Valadao) are proposing to modify current policies and rein in federal agencies. These are not radical proposals, but are measured policy changes designed to improve all the outcomes--increased water supply for communities, better water management, and increased funding for environmental programs. This is what government is supposed to do--find solutions that are compatible with a variety of interests. With the critical period for California water supply system to be replenished arriving in less than six months, Congress has very little time to act on legislation. For farmers and farmworkers, planning and financial decisions about crops and food production and hiring start long before planting season begins in February. There is no more time to waste. Absolutely nothing is no longer acceptable. Congress needs to pass legislation that solves this decades-long problem. If they do not, absolutely nothing is what they should expect from us in return.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize my good friend Ms. Coke Hallowell in honor of the outstanding contributions she has made to the arts community and the entire San Joaquin Valley. Coke is being honored by the Fresno Arts Council in appreciation of her tireless efforts on behalf of the Valley. Her commitment and dedication to her community deserve to be commended. Coke's career began by teaching remedial reading for ten years at Sanger Unified School District. Later she was elected and served two terms on the State Center Community College District and continued her educational leadership by going on to serve on the State Center Foundation for seventeen years. Coke has been very active in various community organizations such as, the National Parks Conservation Association, the Fresno Arts Council, the U.C. Merced Foundation, the Downtown Fresno Coalition and Revive the San Joaquin. Coke presently serves on the boards of the Planning and Conservation League Foundation and the California Council of Land Trusts. Coke has strong roots in San Joaquin Valley and is the founding member of the San Joaquin River Parkway and Conservation Trust, and she has served as President of Board of Directors for twenty years. Most recently Coke was elected Chairman of the new San Joaquin River Parkway and Conservation Trust Board. In addition to all her career accomplishments she also has numerous awards including the YWCA Business and Professional Women of the Year, the Fresno Arts Council Horizon Award, and the NSFRE Outstanding Philanthropist and Volunteer Fund Raiser. In 2002, she received an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from California State University Fresno, and in 2005 she was selected by the Jefferson Awards Board to receive the Jacquiline Kennedy Onassis Award for ``Outstanding Community Service Benefiting Local Communities.'' Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I ask my colleagues to join me as we honor and celebrate Coke Hallowell for her dedication to the arts, her community, and education. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work with Coke and witness firsthand her giving spirit and commitment to causes near to her heart. She is a true steward of the San Joaquin Valley and we are grateful for her service and the lasting impact of her efforts in the Valley.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Police Chief Jerry Dyer of Fresno, California. Chief Dyer is being honored by the Fresno Police Department in appreciation of his 15 years of service as Police Chief. The Fresno community is fortunate to have someone who has devoted his career to serving as an advocate for our city. Chief Dyer attended California State University, Fresno where he would receive his Bachelor's Degree in Criminology. He would go on to obtain a Master's Degree in Management from California Polytechnic University at Pomona and graduate from the California Command College for law enforcement leaders. He began his service with the Fresno Police Department in 1979. Chief Dyer has been committed to community policing since becoming the Chief of Police on August 1, 2001. He has made it a priority of the Department to build strong relationships with the community, and instill trust between the officers and the people they serve. These efforts have even been recognized nationally for their effectiveness. Under Chief Dyer, the Department's block parties, forums and numerous community events have helped build trust between the residents and the officers. Under his leadership, the Fresno Police Department has been in the forefront of implementing the reforms proposed by President Barack Obama's Task Force on 21st Century Policing. By employing new technologies, Chief Dyer has made the Fresno Police Department more effective than ever before. During his time as the Chief of Police, Dyer and the Department have been acknowledged on many occasions for their achievements. In 2005, Chief Dyer was awarded the Excellence in Public Service Award, which is sponsored by The Fresno Bee, The Fresno Business Council, and the Maddy Institute at California State University, Fresno. That same year, the Department would become nationally accredited through the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies; something only fourteen other agencies in the state have achieved. The Department was also granted the prestigious California Highway Patrol Commissioner's Award for its traffic safety efforts. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Chief Jerry Dyer in celebration of this great achievement. It has been a pleasure to work with Chief Dyer in serving the community we both love. We are lucky to have someone who has put in a great effort to make the Fresno Police Department one of the state's top law enforcement agencies. I ask that you join me in wishing Chief Dyer continued success.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Joe and Julie Marchini. The Marchini's are being honored by Catholic Charities of Merced in appreciation of their years of dedicated service to the community. Both Joe and Julie have contributed countless hours to causes that are close to their hearts in order to make their community a better place. Joe Marchini was born on December 9, 1938 in Merced, California to Florindo and Elisa Marchini. Joe has lived in Merced County most of his life. A natural love of being outdoors led Joe to begin working on his father's farm from a young age. At 20 years old he was invited to become a partner in his father's business, the Giampaoli-Marchini Company. Upon founding his own company with his brother Richard, Joe became the original radicchio grower in the United States. Julie Marchini was born on September 14, 1942 in Modesto, California to Jim and Mary Louise Thompson. Her family moved to Merced when she was ten years old. The family is a staple in the community, as business owners in the area, including Merced area fixture Helen and Louise Dress Shop. Joe and Julie were married 56 years ago and purchased a ranch in Le Grand where they raised their three children. They are parents to Lisa, Jeff and Fania. Joe and Julie are proud grandparents to ten, and come this winter, great-grandparents to six. It has always been important to Joe and Julie to have balance between work, family, charity and church. They have been active in organizations, such as the Le Grand volunteer firefighters, Italian Catholic federation and the California Tomato Board. Joe has spent many hours cooking BBQ for fundraisers, events, and people in need. Julie has volunteered time to Hinds Hospice, Our Lady of Lourdes religious education program, and school activities her family has participated in. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring the Marchini Family for their commitment to serving Merced County. The community is grateful for their service and the impact they have made in the Valley. I congratulate the Marchini family for this honor and ask that you join me in wishing them continued success.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize The Pedrozo Family. The Pedrozo's have deep rooted ties to public service in Merced County and are known for their tireless efforts on behalf of the community. They are being honored by Catholic Charities of Merced in appreciation of their service to the Valley. The late Joe and Barbra Pedrozo raised their six children on the family's dairy farm. They instilled the importance of faith and serving others in their children. Those guiding words have shaped the Pedrozo family. They have been actively involved in Our Lady of Mercy School, St. Patrick's Parish and Sacred Heart Churches, among many other local causes. Joe is a local business owner and was a volunteer coach for Our Lady of Mercy School sports and City Leagues for 25 years. He gave classes to vocational instruction students at the Juvenile Hall for Merced County Office of Education. Diana has also been an active member of the community, having served as the Executive Director of the Merced County Farm Bureau and as a member of the Merced County California Women for Agriculture. John and Kelly Pedrozo are parents to two sons and a daughter, 6 grandsons and one granddaughter due this fall. John is a proud graduate of Our Lady of Mercy. He has been on the Merced County Board of Supervisors for twelve years. In this role he has served as an advocate for farmers and Merced County's most underserved. John previously served on the Our Lady of Mercy School Board and the Merced Union High School District Board of Trustees. Kelly worked for Merced County Child Support Services for 30 years. Kelly and John have been supporters of 4-H, St. Patrick's Parish and OLM School. Ted and Juanita Pedrozo have been married for 35 years, are parents to four children, grandparents to one grandson and another grandson is due in October. Ted and John have a catering business known throughout Merced County for providing food for local charitable and non-profit organizations. Juanita is a teacher and school administrator, serving in this role for 36 years. Ted and Juanita are active members of St. Patrick's Parish and supporters of Our Lady Of Mercy School and local 4-H programs. Judy (Pedrozo) and Harry Blackburn have been married for 24 years. Judy was a teacher and currently serves as Principal at Our Lady of Mercy School. Harry has worked for a private company for 24 years and is a store manager. Judy serves on the Fresno Diocesan School Board. Judy and Harry are active members of St. Patrick and strong supporters of Our Lady of Mercy School. Josh and Heidi Pedrozo are continuing the tradition of service in the Pedrozo Family. Josh is a teacher at Merced High School and has been a Merced City Councilman for eight years. Heidi assisted the people of the 16th district while serving as a representative in my office, as well as the office of Congressman Dennis Cardoza. Heidi is currently a teacher at El Capitan High School. Their son Owen is a student at Our Lady of Mercy and they are expecting a daughter this fall. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the great contributions of the Pedrozo Family. Their contributions will have a lasting impact on the community for years to come. I congratulate the Pedrozo's for this honor and ask that you join me in wishing them continued success.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the life of Lieutenant Colonel Peter Chou Vang who passed away May 4, 2016. He was 82. Vang Chou was a respected leader in the Hmong American community, whose contributions spanned decades. Vang Chou was born on April 5, 1938 in the Phac Lac village of Laos to Xia Chong Vang and Xay Lo. Vang Chou completed primary education and went on to receive his Certificat d 'Etudes Primaires Complementaires (French High School Diploma). From an early age he was known as a benevolent man, providing for many members of his extended family. Vang Chou made the decision not to pursue his education further, due to his family's financial hardship and in order to help his mother provide for his seven half siblings. At the age of 20 he became a national police officer in Laos. 1961 was an eventful year for Vang Chou. He began his service as a first Air Guide officer for the CIA and married his wife May Yang. Vang Chous's intricate knowledge of the terrain led to his service as a guide for aerial missions during the Vietnam War. His flying career included 116 aerial missions. In 1968, he was wounded in battle, leaving him partially paralyzed in his right arm. Vang Chou then became the commander of the joint operation center at Long Tien Air Base. He quickly earned the respect of his Hmong, Thai and American counterparts. Following the end of the war, Vang Chou and his family arrived in the United States as refugees in 1976. The family relocated to Santa Ana, California before eventually settling in Merced County. He initially found work as a machinist, before joining the program to assist newly arrived refugees with resettlement. He was one of the founding members of Merced Lao Family Community, Inc.--an organization that was founded to serve the Southeast Asian immigrant community. He was instrumental in founding similar organizations in California and the Western United States. According to historian Noah Vang, he was a significant member of the community and played a role in building the strong and thriving Hmong community we know today. Vang Chou is survived by his wife, May Yang Vang; their children, Maly, Wayne, Maykou, Bee and Mayko; twelve grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me on this day in a moment of silence in memory of the life and service of Lieutenant Colonel Peter Chou Vang. He will be remembered as a hardworking man, who went above and beyond in the service of his community. His leadership and dedication to the Hmong community will be missed.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Alicia Dicochea. Alicia is known throughout Merced County for her dedication and service to her community. She is retiring this year after serving as one of the founding members of the Board of Directors of Golden Valley Health Centers since 1971. Alicia has gone above and beyond in the effort to make her community a better place, volunteering her time in health care, education and church. Alicia was born in Cutler, California. She is the youngest of five siblings, born to parents who immigrated to the Central Valley from Mexico in the 1920s. From an early age she learned the meaning of hard work, working in the fields with her siblings in order to help support the family. In 1947 Alicia married Jesus Dicochea. The young family, along with their children moved to Los Banos in 1965 in order to pursue work opportunities, where they have lived ever since. Alicia's involvement with Golden Valley Health Centers began when it was just a single clinic for farm workers. Today the medical center has 25 clinics and serves Merced and Stanislaus counties. Alicia has been an advocate for health care for the Valley's underserved since the beginnings of her involvement with Golden Valley. Alicia has also been an advocate in education. She made the decision to play an active role in her children's school from the day the first of her ten children began school. She was selected to be a part of a group of parents and UC Davis students to assess the needs of the community in order to properly use funding available to local students and families. She was involved in Merced College's Los Banos campus from its beginnings. She taught Spanish and advised on the curriculum for English as a Second Language students. Her strong faith has led to a natural involvement with her church. Alicia served as a delegate for the Guadalupanas Society in Los Banos and served as secretary for District 7, which includes Los Banos, Dos Palos, and Atwater. Alicia's service to her community knows no limits. She has served on the Los Banos Planning Commission and as a member of the National Board of National Association of Farmworkers Organization. During the holiday season, she participates in initiatives to feed the homeless. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring Alicia Dicochea. Her forty-five years of service on the Board of Directors of Golden Valley Health Centers, in addition to the wonderful work she has done in the community, should be commended. Los Banos will be forever grateful for the impact she has made in the community.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Chair, earlier today, I inadvertently pressed the wrong button when voting on rollcall Vote No. 451. I intended to vote ``no.'' Amendment No. 73 Offered by Mr. Newhouse

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the grand opening of the Fresno County Historical Museum, an expansion of the award-winning Big Fresno Fair Museum. The Fresno County Historical Museum will provide the opportunity for many individuals to learn about the diverse and rich history of Fresno County. The first phase of the Fresno County Historical Museum was initially opened to the public during the 2015 Big Fresno Fair, and will be expanded to include an additional 7,000 square feet of exhibit space. This space will serve to highlight historical items in both permanent and temporary displays from the Fresno Police Department, Fresno Fire Department, Fresno Athletic Hall of Fame, Sheriff's Office, Fresno Historical Society, Legion of Valor, the Fresno County Farm Bureau, and many more. The Fresno County Historical Museum is one of the largest capital improvement projects in years at the Fresno Fair Grounds. It will reflect the diverse communities that call Fresno County home by commemorating Mono Indian, Armenian, and Japanese American histories and the positive impact they have had on our county. Displays will pay tribute to the famed inhabitants of our county through photography, artifacts, and memorabilia. For example, the museum will provide the first permanent venue for the Fresno Athletic Hall of Fame that will showcase photos and sports memorabilia of its 300 inductees, including the late beloved coach Jerry Tarkanian, U.S. Olympic softball medalist Laura Berg, and Major League Baseball player Frank LeRoy Chance. In addition, other exhibits are planned to honor notable members of Fresno County, including the famed Oscar and Pulitzer-prize winning author, William Saroyan. The Fresno County Historical Museum is a place for the community to learn more about the county's past, and to further appreciate what makes Fresno County the great place it is. It is an honor to celebrate this momentous occasion with the Big Fresno Fair Board of Directors, The Fresno County Historical Society, and the community members through Fresno County who have made this museum a reality. Without the unwavering commitment of these individuals, projects and facilities such as the Fresno County Historical Museum would not be possible. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect that I ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to join me in recognizing the Fresno County Historical Museum expansion to the Big Fresno Fair Museum. This museum will allow the residents of Fresno County to learn and appreciate the rich history of our Valley for many generations to come.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the service and career of Ambassador Marion H. Smoak as he celebrates his 100th birthday. Ambassador Smoak has dedicated many years to public service and deserves to be commended for his service and dedication to our country. Ambassador Smoak received a bachelor's degree in English and History from The Citadel in 1938. He went on to receive a law degree from the University of South Carolina Law School in 1941. Shortly after receiving his law degree Ambassador Smoak served in the Army and was stationed in Berlin and New Caledonia, Japan, holding the title of Judge Advocate with the 11th and 82nd Airborne Divisions. Following his tour abroad, he began teaching at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in the Law Department. Upon leaving his position at West Point, Ambassador Smoak became a legislative liaison officer in Washington, D.C. In this position, he assisted in drafting legislation and performed liaison duties with Congress, the Department of Justice, the Department of State, and the Department of Defense. During his time in Washington, D.C., Ambassador Smoak became Chief of the Legislative Drafting Division for the Judge Advocate General. He served as Chief until his retirement from military service in 1961, leaving with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Following his retirement from the Army, Ambassador Smoak returned to Aiken County, South Carolina along with his wife, Mary Frances Meister, and their three children, Fred, Mary Frances, and Pat. Serving as a practicing attorney in Aiken County, Ambassador Smoak sought office in the South Carolina State Senate and went on to win the election in 1966. Ambassador Smoak was among the first five Republicans that served in the South Carolina State Senate since Reconstruction. While in the State Senate he served on six committees that included: Agriculture, Atomic and Nuclear Energy, Commerce and Manufactures, Military, and Veteran Affairs. Ambassador Smoak fought for the Compulsory School Bill, realigning voting precincts, and compulsory auto inspections. From 1967 to 1968, he also served in the State Constitutional Revision Commission. Upon completing his term in the Senate, Ambassador Smoak went on to work at the State Department as the Deputy Chief of Protocol and Chief of Protocol for the President and the Secretary of State from 1969 to 1974. During his time at the State Department Ambassador Smoak participated in many significant events including: the inauguration of President Prastrana of Colombia in 1970, the inauguration of President Echeverria of Mexico in 1970, and the funeral of King Frederick IX of Denmark in 1972. When he retired from the State Department in 1974, he was given the title of Ambassador. His glorious career continued when he was named Co-Chairman on the Committee of Finance for then Presidential candidate Ronald Reagan. Ambassador Smoak went on to practice law at Shipley, Smoak, and Henry of Washington, D.C., where he practiced International Law and officially retired. Among all his involvement and activities, Ambassador Smoak served as Director of the Ackokeek Foundation and the American Friends of Jamaica. He also served as President of Georgetown Club of Washington and the Fairfax Hunt of Northern Virginia, and assisted in the production of the Red Cross Ball in Palm Beach, Florida as Diplomatic Chairman. Currently, Ambassador Smoak is a member of the Chevy Chase Club and the Metropolitan Club of Washington, the Everglades Club and the Palm Beach Polo and Country Club of Palm Beach Florida. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the career and noble service of Ambassador Smoak. It is with great pride that we thank him for his service, and wish him continued health and happiness with his friends, family, and loved ones.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, the Tuolumne Band of the Me-Wuk Indians of the Tuolumne Rancheria is seeking a transfer of the two parcels that have been mentioned from the U.S. Forest Service land to the Department of the Interior to be held in trust for the tribe. These two parcels, which represent a combined total of about 80 acres, are both undeveloped and they are landlocked. The parcels are located in an area of great cultural and historical significance to the tribe and are contiguous to lands the tribe currently owns in fee simple, known simply as the Murphy Ranch. When the tribe inquired about the status of these parcels, the local U.S. Forest Service staff confirmed that there are no current or future uses to the U.S. Forest Service or any other Federal agency. The tribe would like to make these existing two parcels a part of their Murphy Ranch Conservation Area, which was established to protect the environment, wildlife, and the natural beauty of the area, and also, as Congressman McClintock noted, to provide additional fire protection, which is absolutely essential. We, as a result of 4 devastatingly dry years, combined with the bark beetle, have a tinderbox of extreme fire conditions that we are dealing with in California. Some of you have noted the fires that have taken place already in other Western States. So fire protection is a part of the concern of this effort, and I feel very strongly that we need to do everything we can to improve the Forest Service's ability to manage our forest lands. Frankly, we are spending all the money that we do give to the Forest Service to put out fires and, therefore, it only makes matters worse because we are not doing the kind of work we ought to be doing in managing the forests. So I want to commend the tribe for working with the Tuolumne County Board of Supervisors and the Edward Ingalls Trust to mitigate any other concerns that the land transfer might have had. Of course, Congressman McClintock has been tenacious in working with all the parties to try to bring this legislation to the floor for swift adoption, and I want to commend his efforts. We have no further speakers, and I think it would be appropriate that I thank the gentlewoman from Wyoming (Mrs. Lummis) for all her good work. I, too, will be one of those who will miss her presence, her active engagement, and her constructive efforts to try to find bipartisan solutions to the challenges we face here in Congress. I yield back the balance of my time.