Jim Costa

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise with my colleagues, Congressman Xavier Becerra, Congressman Ami Bera, Congresswoman Julia Brownley, Congresswoman Lois Capps, Congressman Tony Cardenas, Congresswoman Judy Chu, Congresswoman Anna Eshoo, Congressman Sam Farr, Congresswoman Janice Hahn, Congressman Jared Huffman, Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren, Congressman Alan Lowenthal, Congresswoman Doris Matsui, Congresswoman Gloria Negrete McLeod, Congressman Jerry McNerney, Congressman George Miller, Congressman Rick Nolan, Congresswoman Grace Napolitano, Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi, Congressman Scott Peters, Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard, Congressman Raul Ruiz, Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez, Congressman Adam Schiff, Congressman Brad Sherman, Congresswoman Jackie Speier, Congressman Eric Swalwell, Congressman Mike Thompson and Congressman Henry Waxman to pay tribute to the life of former Congressman, John H. Krebs. John Krebs was an honorable man, and a community leader whose unwavering service will be greatly missed. In addition to his two terms in the United States Congress from 1975-1979, Mr. Krebs was a civic and Democratic Party leader in Fresno, California. Additionally, he worked as an attorney for over 30 years, he was an apprentice diamond cutter during his youth in Tel Aviv, and he served in the U.S. Army. While in Congress, he was best known for his authorship and enactment of legislation incorporating the Mineral King Valley into Sequoia National Park, thwarting Disney developers who wanted to turn the wilderness area into a major ski resort. In 2009, President Obama recognized John for his efforts, and signed legislation establishing the John Krebs Wilderness Area which covers 40,000 acres within the Mineral King Valley. John Krebs was born on December 17, 1926, in Berlin. His parents fled Germany a few months after Hitler came to power, and he was raised in Tel Aviv. During his adolescence, John embarked on a career as a diamond cutter and joined the Haganah, a Jewish underground organization opposing the British rule, while also preparing to attend college. In 1946, John moved to the United States to attend the University of California, Berkeley. He graduated in 1950 and became a U.S. citizen in 1952. Following his two years in the Army, he attended the University of California Hastings College of Law and passed the California Bar in 1957. For the next three decades, he practiced law with the Parichan law firm, specializing in civil defense litigation. John wanted to make a positive difference in the community, and he quickly became an activist and leader for Fresno's Democratic Party, playing a key role in local and statewide campaigns. In March 1970, he was elected to the Fresno County Board of Supervisors, a position he held until his election to Congress in 1974. He was the first foreign- born congressman from California. John fulfilled the American Dream, and he serves as an inspiration for all of us. John returned to Fresno after his tenure in Congress, and practiced law until his retirement. He served on numerous boards and commissions, and was foreman of the Fresno County Grand Jury for two years. John and his wife, Hanna enjoyed traveling, and loved spending time with their children and grandchildren. John's strong values, work ethic, and compassion for others were evident to all of those who were fortunate to know him. His loving guidance as a husband, father, grandfather, and friend will be forever cherished. John will be greatly missed by Hanna, his son, Daniel Krebs, his daughter, Karen, daughter-in-law, Susan, son-in-law, John, and grandchildren, Elizabeth, Caroline, Jack, Clay, and Peter as well as his 90 year old brother, Shlomo. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect that we ask the entire House of Representatives to join us in paying tribute to the life of John H. Krebs. We all have an extraordinary role model to look up to, and his presence will be greatly missed, but his legacy will surely live on.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and express my appreciation to the Lao and Hmong-American community in California's 16th Congressional District and across the country, especially the veterans and their families. It is important to note their historic and positive contributions to California's San Joaquin Valley and their critical sacrifices in support of the United States during the Vietnam War. This year, my Congressional office was pleased to once again attend the memorial ceremonies held this past May in Arlington National Cemetery to honor those who served during the Vietnam War as well as their refugee families who were resettled in America following the end of the conflict. Each year, since May 1997, constituents from my district in the San Joaquin Valley travel a very long distance to Washington, D.C., to help organize and host this memorial service. Colonel Wangyee Vang, President of the Lao Veterans of America Institute, of Fresno, and Philip Smith, Washington Director of the Lao Veterans of America, worked closely with members of the U.S. Congress, Arlington National Cemetery, the U.S. Army and Department of Defense, and others, to coordinate the memorial service at the ``Laos Memorial'' in Arlington. A joint U.S. Armed Services Color Guard, the ``Old Guard,'' and a U.S. Marine Corps Honor Guard provide additional support for the events, which are attended each year by a delegation of Lao Hmong veterans from the Central Valley. A U.S. Army wreath-bearer and bugler contribute additional meaning to this moving ceremony. These important events, which my office has attended over the years, seek to honor the Lao and Hmong veterans and their U.S. Special Forces and CIA clandestine advisers. As always, I am grateful and proud of the historic and ongoing contributions of the Laotian- and Hmong-American community in the San Joaquin Valley and across the United States. We must not forget how Hmong veterans have sacrificed and struggled to help the United States during and after the war. These brave individuals have truly made the San Joaquin Valley a better place. Many of my colleagues in the U.S. House and Senate have been supportive of my steadfast efforts to introduce and advance the Hmong Veterans' Service Recognition Act (H.R. 3369), which continues to gain strong bipartisan support in Congress. I wish to thank the many Senators and Members of Congress for standing alongside me in this worthy effort. I must also thank the Hmong veterans and Hmong-American community, who seek to honor their veterans and historic legacy. It is my hope that this legislation will continue to progress as more of my colleagues in the Congress and the public become aware of the unique and important contribution that the Hmong people have made, and continue to make, to our nation.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the work and career of UCSF Fresno Associate Dean Dr. Joan L. Voris, and to congratulate her on her retirement from the UCSF Fresno Medical Education Program on January 5, 2015. Dr. Voris has decided to retire, leaving her most recent post as the associate dean of the UCSF Fresno Medical Education Program, a position she has held since 2002. Prior to her appointment as associate dean, she was a faculty member for 24 years. In her position as associate dean Dr. Voris provided leadership and oversight to residency programs in eight specialties, 17 sub-specialties, undergraduate medical education, the UCSF Fresno Latino Center for Medical Education and Research, the California Area Health Education Center, the UCSF Fresno Alzheimer's and Memory Center, and various pipeline programs within the community. Dr. Voris has made incredible changes to the UCSF Fresno medical education program as associate dean. During her tenure, the program has seen an increase in the number of core faculty from 77 to 229, and the number of residents and fellows trained on an annual basis increased from 172 to 293, a 70% increase. To add to her long list of accomplishments, all but one of the 14 fellowship programs was established under her leadership. Prior to working at UCSF Fresno, Dr. Voris attended prestigious Stanford University where she earned both her bachelor's and medical degrees. Afterwards, she completed her pediatrics residency training at UCSF Fresno. During her 36 years working as a pediatrician in Fresno, Dr. Voris has served on a medical team which brings health care to communities in Mexico during the summer, working to provide health care to those who live in areas which have access to little to no medical services. Due to her amazing contributions to the medical community and her expertise in child abuse issues and childhood obesity, Dr. Voris was named by the Marjaree Mason Center in 2010 as one of their Top 10 Professional Women. Additionally, in 2012, she received the ``Physician Community Service Lifetime Achievement Award'' from the Fresno-Madera Medical Society. Her colleagues have nothing but praise for Dr. Voris, expressing their appreciation at her tireless efforts to improve health care in the San Joaquin Valley and to increase awareness of UCSF Fresno. Mr. Speaker, it is with utmost respect that I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the career of Dr. Joan L. Voris. Her outstanding work in pediatrics, her improvements at the UCSF Fresno Medical Education Program, and her extensive contributions to the community have all led to her to be regarded as one of the best doctors in the Central Valley. It is my hope that she continues to have a happy and fulfilling life in retirement.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I thank the ranking member for the opportunity to speak on H.R. 5781, the California Emergency Drought Relief Act. Mr. Speaker, we have been here before, and we will be here again until Congress acts to provide authority for increased operational flexibility for California's water projects. The American Geophysical Union released a report last week that indicates, according to some of the measures they are taking, that the 2012-2014 drought affecting California is the worst in 1,200 years. The 2014 drought is responsible for part of the greatest absolute reduction to water availability to agriculture that we have ever seen. But we can operate the projects differently for different outcomes. The water modeling experts in the area I represent have indicated to me that without additional authority to move water, unless California receives 150 percent of its normal average rainfall this year, which is unlikely, the water allocation on both the east side and the west side of the San Joaquin Valley will be zero. Last year it was zero, and next year it will be zero. But urban users in the bay area and southern California, they will get water. The fish, they will get water. But the folks on the east and west side of the San Joaquin Valley will get a zero water allocation unless we exceed 150 percent of normal. I would like the House to think about that. We are talking about 2 years without surface water that forms the basis of the economy of the region. The results are an immediate impact to farmworkers and their families, to farmers, and to the farm communities. This isn't some esoteric discussion about precedent; this is about people's lives and their livelihoods that are at stake. Economists at UC Davis estimated that in 2013 the California economy lost $2.2 billion in economic output as a result of this drought. For my friends whose primary concern is environmental protection, the loss of surface water supplies for the valley means that farmers are forced to turn to groundwater, and they are overdrafting that groundwater in substantial manner. This is a crisis. The situation this year has been devastating, and if we do nothing, next year it will become catastrophic. H.R. 5781 is not perfect nor is it a bill that will solve all of California's problems. We need to fix a broken water system. However, it is a bill that provides, for 18 months, the flexibility for the movement of water which is now not being moved. And it does so responsibly by preserving the Secretary's discretion to reduce pumping to prevent additional harm to endangered species. It will only take advantage when we have storms. It does not change the biological opinions, and it does nothing to move water rights in front of someone else, as the previous speaker said. It has a sunset on it. There will be debate about others ways to assist in drought recovery, but this is the measure we have before us now. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation. It will help the San Joaquin Valley. It will help all of California to get by during the devastating effects this drought is having. It is not a panacea. And yes, we need to work together, but as far as igniting water wars, gee, I don't think they have ever subsided. There are still historic differences.

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman. The fault lines on water in California everybody on this floor knows. They are deep and they are historic and they have existed for decades. It is because we have this broken water system. We have a water system designed for 20 million people. We now have 38 million people. To provide water for the people, for the environment, and to maintain agriculture, of which we are the largest agricultural State, we need to work. We need to work together. There were some comments about the secret meetings. Gee, if this has been a secret as we have been working together for 8 months now, it is one of the worst-kept secrets in Washington this year, I think. The fact is this provides us a modicum of relief. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation, but we need to do much more.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 541, had I been present, I would have voted ``aye.''

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, it is with sadness that I rise today to honor the life of former Congressman John Krebs. John was a close friend and a mentor. As a young immigrant to the United States from Tel Aviv, John was able to live the American Dream and much more. He serves as an inspiration for all of those who knew him. John served in the United States House of Representatives from 1975 to 1979. One of his proudest legislative accomplishments was incorporating the Mineral King Valley into the Sequoia National Park. In 2009, President Obama recognized John for his efforts, and he signed legislation establishing the John Krebs Wilderness area which covers 40,000 acres within Mineral King Valley. Mr. Krebs was a community leader and was active in the Democratic Party, playing key roles in both local and statewide campaigns throughout California. John will be greatly missed by his wife, Hanna; by his son, Daniel, and his wife, Susan; by his daughter, Karen, and her husband, John; and by his grandchildren, Elizabeth, Caroline, Jack, Clay, and Peter. John's strong values, work ethic, and compassion for others were evident to all who knew him and were fortunate to work with him. It is with great respect that I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to honor the life of former Congressman John Krebs, my good friend.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. John Harris for being the recipient of the 2014 Agriculturist of the Year award from the Greater Fresno Area Chamber of Commerce. John has made countless contributions to California's agricultural economy, and his efforts deserve to be honored. John was born into a family with strong agricultural roots. His parents grew cotton and grain on their family farm. John attended the University of California at Davis (UC Davis), and later, founded Harris Ranch. Harris Ranch is one of the leading producers of agricultural goods in the nation. His products include: almonds, pistachios, citrus, and various vegetable crops. Under John's leadership, Harris Ranch has been a leading beef producer in California's Central Valley for years. Additionally, Harris Ranch is the largest cattle feeder ranch in the state, and it produces over 150 million pounds of beef a year. Harris Ranch also breeds thoroughbred racing horses. This year, Harris Ranch received national media attention because of the racing horse champion, California Chrome. John served as the president of the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association and is currently a member of the executive committee in the association. John is also a member of the California Horse Racing Board and served as a chairman in 2004, 2005 and 2009. He also is a member of the Jockey Club, and is a very dedicated man to the sport of horse racing. John is an active community member, and he is a strong supporter of Saint Agnes Medical, the California Cattlemen's Association, and Western Growers Association. Additionally, he supports agricultural education and donates to UC Davis, California State University, Fresno, and the California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect that I ask our colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to recognize Mr. John Harris. He is truly deserving of this recognition, and I thank him for all of the contributions he has made to California's San Joaquin Valley.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with my colleagues Mr. Nunes and Mr. Valadao to recognize Justice Marvin Baxter for his honorable service to the state of California. For decades, Justice Baxter served as a dedicated leader who willingly and unselfishly gave his time and talent to make our state a better place. Marvin Baxter was born in Fowler, California on January 9, 1940. He grew up on his family farm as a second generation American. All four of his grandparents emigrated from Armenia in the early twentieth century. After graduating from Fresno State, he went on to the University of California's Hastings School of Law, where he earned his law degree in 1966. Justice Baxter began his lifelong career in law in 1967 as a Deputy District Attorney for Fresno County. Two years later, he continued on at a private practice focusing on civil law. Justice Baxter worked with the firm Andrews, Andrews, Thaxter, Jones & Baxter for 14 years before he moved back to public service acting as Appointments Secretary to Governor George Deukmejian. In that capacity, Mr. Baxter advised the Governor on judicial and executive appointments. After working in the Governor's office for five years, Mr. Baxter was appointed by Governor Deukmejian as Associate Justice of the California Court of Appeal for the Fifth District. In 1991, he was appointed Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of California. Subsequently, in 2002, Justice Baxter was elected by the California voters to serve an additional 12 years as associate justice. Throughout his career, Justice Baxter has been a part of many landmark decisions. He is known amongst his peers for being straight- forward and clear headed in the courtroom. Colleagues will miss the most senior Supreme Court justice for sound feedback they could regularly count on. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect that Mr. Nunes, Mr. Valadao, and I ask our colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to recognize Justice Marvin Baxter for his service to the state of California. Although his time on the California Supreme Court has come to an end, Justice Baxter has made a lasting impression and we commend him for his hard work and dedication.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with my colleagues Mr. Nunes and Mr. Valadao to recognize Mr. Berj K. Apkarian upon his appointment as the first Honorary Consul of the Republic of Armenia in Fresno. This is a monumental occasion for not only Berj but for Fresno's entire Armenian community. In 1979, Berj immigrated to Fresno, California, from Syria, and he has since been a very active member of Fresno's Armenian-American community. He is the Executive Director of Physician Relations at Community Medical Centers and is also a professor at California State University, Fresno, where he leads the Armenian Studies Program and the Center for Armenian Studies. In 2009, the City of Fresno established a sister city partnership with the city of Etchmiadzin in Armenia. The partnership enhances the bond between Fresno and Armenia, and Berj was instrumental in forming the relationship. To further strengthen our city's ties with Armenia, the Honorary Consulate of the Republic of Armenia was established on August 14, 2014. As Honorary Consul, Berj will continue to play an integral role in strengthening our Valley's relationship with Armenia. In addition to forming a stronger relationship with Armenia, Berj plans to take a team of medical professionals to Armenia to educate and provide healthcare services for residents living in rural communities. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect that Mr. Nunes, Mr. Valadao, and I ask our colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to recognize Mr. Berj K. Apkarian as he begins to serve as the first Honorary Consul of the Republic of Armenia in Fresno.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 25th anniversary of the Fresno Historical Society's Civil War Revisited celebration, taking place on October 18-19, 2014. On September 29-30, 1990, more than 10,000 visitors in Fresno's Kearney Park were able to travel back in time to witness four battles between Union and confederate soldiers that originally took place in 1864 near Atlanta, Georgia. Three hundred volunteers from throughout California were sponsored by the Civil War Reenactment Society to assemble and act in authentic Civil War battles complete with cannon volleys, musket fire, rebel yells, costumes, and charging horses. These volunteers were educated in depth about the lives of the characters they portray, leaving visitors with a broader view of the times and lives of people during the time period. Such authenticity allowed the audience, and over 4,000 students to learn firsthand, vivid history lessons from conversations with soldiers in the 1864 setting. Over the 25 years of its existence, Civil War Revisited has grown to be one of the largest civil war reenactments in the Western United States. So much so, that it is often referred to as ``an American history class for thousands.'' In 2001, the event expanded by adding a school day program called ``Time Travelers at the Civil War.'' This program allows students to interact with historical figures such as President Lincoln, Clara Barton, Walt Whitman and Harriet Tubman. Additionally, they are able to speak with military re-enactors to learn about life as a part of the war effort, but they are also able to speak to blacksmiths and dressmakers in order to get a glimpse into day to day life in the era. A unique component of the school day program is a play, featuring a cast of students who bring the voices of children of the Civil War period to life, known as Readers' heater. Students often rehearse at school leading up to a performance during the Civil War reenactment. To date, the Time Travelers program has hosted 22,000 students from throughout the San Joaquin Valley since its establishment. This allows students to learn about history using a more interactive, unique perspective, as opposed to solely reading about the period in textbooks or watching videos. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the outstanding accomplishments of the Fresno Historical Society in its 25 years of excellence in accurately reenacting such an important point in American history.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 40th anniversary of the partnership between the Economic Opportunities Commission and the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program. WIC provides care for women with low to medium income, who are pregnant or have a child who is less than five years old. In 1968, CBS aired a documentary titled ``Hunger in America,'' that shed light on widespread malnutrition across low income communities. The following year, the White House formed a council to address the issue and a recommendation stemming from the council was to focus on providing nutritional food and education to low income pregnant women and children. When the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 was amended in 1972, the WIC was authorized as a pilot program for two years. The EOC was one of the agencies participating in the WIC as a pilot program, and they issued the first WIC vouchers in the state of California. In 1975, the EOC established WIC as a permanent program based on the premise that early intervention during critical times of growth and development can help prevent future medical and developmental problems. The Women, Infants, and Children Supplemental Nutrition Program is a federally-funded health and nutrition program for women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, post-partum and children under 5 years. Throughout the years, the caseload of the EOC WIC has steadily risen to its present high of 37,500 participants. WIC consists of 72 staff members made up of Registered Dieticians, WIC Nutrition Assistants, Local Vendor Liaisons, Breastfeeding peer counselors, and administrative support staff. The goal of WIC is to enhance the quality of life for women, infants and children by providing them with healthy food and the knowledge and opportunity to make healthy choices in an atmosphere of dignity and respect. Women, Infants and Children has provided support for pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children under five years of age and their mothers for nearly 40 years, and they will continue to give them physical aid and knowledge to help improve the quality of their lives. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the outstanding work of the Women, Infants, and Children Supplemental Nutrition Program in providing aid and support to mothers and children who are in need.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church (Holy Trinity) of Fresno, California in celebration of their 100th anniversary. Holy Trinity's service and dedication to bettering the quality of life in the Fresno community deserves to be recognized. The Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church that stands today on the corner of Ventura and ``M'' Street was constructed in 1914. It was the first church ever built in the tradition of Armenian Church architecture in the United States of America. The gorgeous brick church was designed by Fresno's first Armenian architect, Lawrence Karekin Cone. Upon its completion, a handful of soil delivered from the Monastery of St. Krikor the Illuminator Erzeroum, Armenia, was placed in the infrastructure. Additionally, sacred objects from St. James Monastery in Jerusalem were brought as a symbol to bridge the church with the homeland and Holy Land. Holy Trinity is the first and oldest Armenian Church in the western United States. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on July 31, 1986. For the past 100 years, Holy Trinity has served the spiritual needs of Fresno's Armenian community. The church has a strong history of assisting the Armenian community by providing various services to those in need. Most notably the church was essential to the lives of immigrants fleeing from fear of genocide by the hands of the Ottoman Empire in 1915. The church continued these charitable efforts by providing aid and services to displaced persons during World War II, after the fall of the Soviet Union, and wars in the Middle East. Holy Trinity works daily to build upon a strong community. The social hall, Sunday school building, and Fresno's first Armenian day school are all resources used by individuals to connect with one another and demonstrate their faith. Holy Trinity's goal to keep the Armenian Apostolic tradition alive through service to the Armenian and Fresno community is greatly appreciated. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect that I ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to join me in recognizing Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church of Fresno, California as they celebrate their 100th anniversary. Holy Trinity's outstanding history and service to the Fresno Community deserves to be honored.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Erna Kubin-Clanin, proprietress and chef of Erna's Elderberry House Restaurant. Erna's Elderberry House is a small town treasure located in Oakhurst, California. In 1982, Erna purchased a nine acre property for the restaurant. In the beginning, she had to overcome a few challenges, but in 1983, construction began, and the following year, the doors opened for Erna's Elderberry House. Now, on October 19, 2014, she is celebrating the restaurant's 30th anniversary. Erna takes pride not only in the food she prepares, but also in the annual events that she holds, such as ``A Night in Vienna'' and Erna's signature ``Elderberry Harvest Dinner.'' These events, along with the delicious meals she prepares daily, are the reason why so many tourists from Yosemite National Park and the surrounding areas make sure to visit the notable restaurant. Guests continue to return to the restaurant to experience the quality of food and service. Only the freshest and most pristine ingredients from local Central Valley farms are purchased for the unique cuisine that is on the menu. They also work with the Maitre'd Hotel to ensure flawless service and hospitality and with the Cellar Master to create an extraordinary wine list, which complements the menu each evening. For more than fifteen years, the restaurant has maintained the Elderberry House Cooking School. It provides knowledge of the culinary arts to its patrons and transforms the restaurant into a creative arena where inspired cooks can develop their skills under the guidance of the executive chef. Continuing upon her culinary dreams, Erna opened the enchanting Chateau du Sureau in 1991, the elegant Villa Sureau in 1999, and the magical Spa du Sureau in October 2005. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing 30 years of outstanding culinary experience created by Ms. Erna Kubin-Clanin. She has undoubtedly made lasting contributions to the San Joaquin Valley and the entire state of California.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Fresno Area Hispanic Foundation for being selected as the 2014 Chamber of the Year by the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. The Fresno Area Hispanic Foundation (FAHF), a member of the national Hispanic Chamber, was selected from more than 200 chambers for their exceptional service and commitment to promoting and supporting Hispanic businesses in the region. The award was announced at the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce's national convention in Salt Lake City. The Fresno Area Hispanic Foundation, led by President/CEO Dora Westerlund, was founded in 2001 by a group of business owners determined to find effective and engaging ways to address the needs of a dynamic and emerging population. The FAHF, which is the only Hispanic Foundation west of the Mississippi to own its facility--The Downtown Business Hub, has evolved into a one-stop shop that offers an array of resources ranging from networking opportunities to micro-loan programs. In addition, the FAHF offers bilingual workshops on small business lending and courses on business licenses, market research, operations management, and financial statements, to name a few. The FAHF also has a very strong philanthropic presence in the San Joaquin Valley. Since its inception, the FAHF has focused on assisting underserved families in the region by providing academic scholarships and personal enrichment activities. Through their scholarship program, the FAHF has awarded more than $200,000 in scholarships, and their Lend-A-Hand program provides over 600 parents and 350 children with free food and toys during the holidays. Additionally, the Fresno Area Hispanic Foundation, in conjunction with the Mexican Consulate in Fresno, established the Plaza Comunitaria in 2003, which touches the lives of local children and families through the center's annual events and fundraisers. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to join me in recognizing the Fresno Area Hispanic Foundation for being selected as the 2014 Chamber of the Year by the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Their unwavering dedication to the success and growth of Hispanic businesses in the San Joaquin Valley and their work to enrich the lives of local families is truly commendable. The Fresno Area Hispanic Foundation has served as a catalyst for economic growth and sets the standard for Chambers of Commerce throughout the nation.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, as this Congress comes to a close and as the 114th begins, I am hopeful that we can come together at some time to pass comprehensive immigration reform. Unfortunately, time and time again, House leadership has consistently denied a vote on the bipartisan, Senate-passed reform legislation while not even presenting an alternative measure of its own. The Senate- passed plan provides a legal, stable workforce for agriculture and critical protections for those who work to put safe, healthy foods on our Nation's dinner tables. Each day that our immigration system remains broken jobs are lost and our economy struggles. It is unacceptable to put political interests above our national interests. The time to address immigration reform is now. The President's action, mind you, is because this House--its leadership-- has chosen not to act.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Earl Smittcamp who passed away on the morning of October 20, 2014 at the age of 96. Earl's passion for farming and education exemplify the meaning leadership. Earl was a prominent agriculture business leader. He alongside his wife Muriel, founded Wawona Frozen Foods which currently leads the industry in development and distribution of fruit and fruit products. A 1939 graduate of Fresno State, Earl recognized the value of hard work and education and spent his time giving back to his community. Earlier in his life, Earl honorably served our country in the U.S. Marines Corps during World War II. Upon his return, he and his wife purchased her father's 200 acre fruit ranch. Their small business went on dominate the frozen food market, making Wawona Frozen Foods one of the oldest peach processors in the U.S. Wawona Ranch flourished into a full agricultural operation ranging from fruit farming, packing, frozen-food production to food processing. Earl's sons Bob and Bill manage the business. The Smittcamp's success made a $2 million donation to Fresno State in 1997, possible. This generous donation helped establish the Smittcamp Family Honors College. The Honors College offers a rigorous academic program for top students. The Smittcamp Family Alumni Center was also later established and opened in early 2000. In addition to his businesses, Earl also received the following government appointments: Sixth Acting Disaster Governor of California by Governor Ronald Reagan from 1966 to 1972, served on the California State Board of Agriculture from 1970 to 1972, was appointed by President Richard M. Nixon to the White House Conference on Food and Nutrition in 1969, served as chairman of the Federal Farm Credit Board in 1971, and finally in 1976 Earl was appointed to the U.S. Advisory Committee on Regulatory Programs. In 1993 Earl's hard work was recognized by The Fresno Chamber of Commerce's Leon S. Peters Award. Other awards include Clovis' Outstanding Citizen in 1962, Fresno State's Outstanding Alumnus in both 1963 and 1980. In addition, Earl was inducted into the Frozen Food Hall of Fame in 2005. Earl met his wife Muriel at Fresno State in 1940 and the two happily married. In 2009 he was preceded in death by his wife. They are survived by their four children and 14 grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect that I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Earl Smittcamp. Earl's children, grandchildren, relatives and many friends have an outstanding role model that they will hold in their hearts forever. His presence will be greatly missed but his legacy will surely live through the Smittcamp family's deep commitment to supporting the community and the university.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the life of my good friend and former Member of Congress, John H. Krebs. John passed away on November 10, 2014 at the age of 87. John Krebs was an honorable man, and a community leader whose unwavering service will be greatly missed. In addition to his two terms in the U.S. Congress from 1975-1979, Mr. Krebs was a civic and Democratic Party leader in Fresno, an attorney in private practice for over 30 years, an apprentice diamond cutter during his youth in Tel Aviv, and served in the U.S. Army. While in Congress, he was best known for his authorship and enactment of legislation incorporating the Mineral King Valley into Sequoia National Park, thwarting Disney developers who wanted to turn the wilderness area into a major ski resort. To recognize his accomplishment, in 2009, President Obama signed legislation establishing the John Krebs Wilderness Area, covering 40,000 acres within the Mineral King Valley. John Krebs was born December 17, 1926, in Berlin. His parents fled Germany only a few months after Hitler came to power, and be was raised in Tel Aviv. In his teens, he embarked on a career as a diamond cutter and joined the Haganah, a Jewish underground organization opposing the British rule, while also preparing to attend college. Mr. Krebs moved to the U.S. in 1946 to attend the University of California, Berkeley. He graduated in 1950 and became a U.S. citizen in 1952. Following his two years in the Army, he attended the University of California Hastings College of Law and passed the California Bar in 1957. For the next three decades, he practiced law with the Parichan law firm, specializing in civil defense litigation. Politics beckoned, and Mr. Krebs became an activist and leader in Democratic politics, playing a key role in local and statewide campaigns. In March 1970, he was elected to the Fresno County Board of Supervisors, a post he held until his election to Congress in November, 1974. He was the first foreign-born congressman from California. In a 1978 interview, Mr. Krebs said: ``It's a tremendous credit to our system. Here I can come to a community as an immigrant, really not knowing a soul, and 27 years later, I am elected to Congress.'' He returned to Fresno after his tenure in Congress, and practiced law until his retirement. Mr. Krebs served on numerous boards and commissions, and was foreman of the Fresno County Grand Jury for two years. He and his wife enjoyed traveling, and relished visiting their grandchildren during the past 23 years. During his life, Mr. Krebs' high values, strong work ethic and caring for others have been an inspiration for his family and friends. His loving guidance as a husband, father and grandfather will be forever cherished. Mr. Krebs is survived by his wife of 58 years, Hanna Krebs; his son Daniel Krebs of San Anselmo, California, daughter-in-law Susan and grandsons Clay and Peter; his daughter Karen Krebs Wood of New Canaan, Connecticut, son-in-law John and grandchildren Elizabeth, Caroline and Jack; and his 90 year old brother, Shlomo Krebs of Tel Aviv, his sons and extended family. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect that I ask my colleagues to join me paying tribute to the life of John H. Krebs. It has been a privilege to have known John. His children, relatives, and friends have an extraordinary role model that they will hold in their hearts forever. His presence will be greatly missed but his legacy will surely live through those who knew him.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of my friend Arthur J. Hill, who passed away on November 4, 2014 at the age of 99. Arthur was a successful businessman, war hero, and community volunteer who made his community and country a better place through his dedication to his service. Arthur was born in Coos Bay, Oregon where he attended local schools, and then continued on to study engineering at the University of Oregon. Shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor, at the age of 27 he volunteered for the U.S. Army and was assigned to the 146th Engineers Battalion as the Headquarters Company Commander, which is a position that he kept until the end of the Second World War when he retired with the rank of Captain. During his campaign in World War II, Arthur worked tirelessly for the U.S. Army. Arthur's battalion built and operated an assault training center consisting of exact duplications of German fortifications, which was replicated from secret aerial reconnaissance photos of the Normandy landing beaches. He also participated in four additional European Campaigns in Northern France, Ardennes and Alsace, the Rhineland, and Central Europe. In recognition of his efforts in training 65 civil engineers to assist in the reconstruction of the town of Pilsen, Czechoslovakia, the Czech Government awarded Arthur the Czech Military Medal. He was also awarded the Czech Presidential Medal on the 50th anniversary of the liberation of Czechoslovakia, and was chosen as the recipient of the first annual ``Hero of the Valley Award,'' which is given to a distinguished military veteran in the San Joaquin Valley. Upon returning home from serving our country, Art met and married his wife, Betty Jane ``BJ''; the couple enjoyed over 50 years of happy marriage until she passed away in 1998. After the war, Arthur went on to work in the oil industry until 1980, when he retired as president of Hill Oil Company. He then worked at the Veterans Memorial Museum from 1992 until 2011 where he served as Director for ten years. The Veterans Memorial Museum is considered by many to be one of the finest military museums in the country. Art was also a member of the Fresno Rotary Club for over 50 years and was Commander of the American Legion in Fresno. Arthur loved to spend time with veterans, and cared for them so much that in 2010, he established the ``Veterans of the Central Valley Fund'' at the Fresno Regional Foundation. This fund supports the Veterans Memorial Museum and other projects benefitting veterans. Apart from serving the community, Arthur and his wife Betty Jane loved to spend their time traveling the world. Arthur is survived by his son Brad and his wife Audrey, and their daughter Carly and her husband Keith Berry.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise in memory of Larry D. Morse, who passed away on October 28, 2014, at the age of 87. Larry was the founder of Morse, Morse & Morse law firm, and he was a longtime resident of Merced. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather, who cherished time with his family above all else. Larry was dutifully active and civically engaged in Merced as a Rotarian for more than 50 years, and he was a member on the board of directors of Merco Credit Union, the Merced College Foundation Board, and Merced Boosters. While attending Hollywood High School in the 1940s, Larry began working as an usher for NBC Studios in Hollywood and was later promoted to supervisor. It was at NBC Studios where Larry met a new employee, Saranne Condon. Larry and Saranne would go on to spend the next 70 years in a romantic, loving, and nurturing relationship. After his time at NBC Studios, Larry attended Southwestern School of Law in Los Angeles and later began his successful career as an attorney and founder of the law firm Morse, Michelizzi & Wright in Lancaster, California. In 1973, Larry was appointed to the Los Angeles County Municipal Court Bench by Governor Ronald Reagan. After serving on the bench, Larry and his family relocated in 1977 to Merced, where Larry began working at Allen, Van Winkle & Ivey law firm. Larry adored his wife Saranne and their six children. Together, Larry and Saranne placed their children's education above all else, opting to send their children out of state for college so that they could experience life outside of California. After his sons, Neil and Brian, graduated from law school, they united with their father to found the law firm Morse, Morse & Morse, located in Merced's historic Virginia Smith home. Practicing law with his sons was an immense source of pride for Larry. Larry is survived by his beloved wife Saranne and the wonderful family they built with their life together. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Larry D. Morse. Throughout his life and career, Larry maintained an outstanding character and a commitment to his community. He will be greatly missed by many.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with my colleagues Mr. Shuster, Mr. Rahall, and Mr. Denham to recognize Mr. James Stem to congratulate him as he celebrates 48 years of service to America's unions and railroads. James will be retiring as the national legislative director at the United Transportation Union (UTU). James' extraordinary career and service to our country deserve to be honored. James was born on June 19, 1948, in Raleigh, North Carolina. His career in the railroad industry started early at the age of 18 when he became a trainman for the Seaboard Air Line Railroad and a member of the Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen. James' interest in the union movement began early on in his career, and he quickly became active in Local 1129 in Raleigh. By 1973, James worked part-time as a special UTU organizer, and two years later, was elected to be the secretary-treasurer of the Local 1129. He was also elected as a local chairperson and legislative representative. Because of his extensive background at the UTU, James served as delegate at five UTU international conventions from 1979 to 1995. In 1984, James was elected as the North Carolina state legislative director. In 1998, with the necessary experience and knowledge, James was appointed the alternate national legislative director. He was then re-elected to that position at the UTU conventions in 1999, 2003, and 2007, and since 2009, James has served as the national legislative director. Throughout his career, James held many positions including: trainman, switchman, hostler helper, hostler, fireman, and locomotive engineer. Additionally, he is a member of the original Positive Train Control Working Group which is sponsored by the Federal Railroad Administration. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect that Mr. Shuster, Mr. Rahall, Mr. Denham and I ask our colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to recognize Mr. James A. Stem. The contributions he made to the United Transportation Union and the railroad industry deserve to be commended.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Eddie Rontell, who passed away on August 20, 2014, at the age of 88. Ed's family and friends as well as community members throughout Fresno will miss him dearly as he dedicated much of his life to the revitalization and wellbeing of the city. Born in Fresno, California, Ed was the son of Italian immigrants and grew up during the Great Depression. Forced to drop out of Washington Union High School upon his father's death, Ed worked a number of jobs including time spent as a farm laborer and a fireman. Eventually, Ed founded an Auto Shop which he used to launch his lifelong career as a car dealer. Ed was an honest businessman who often earned the loyalty of his customers for generations. Ed used the money he earned to help those in need. He was an anonymous donor to hundreds of charities throughout the state. Additionally, Ed spent much of his own free time volunteering with local non-profits including the Northern California Cancer Program, the Fresno Metropolitan Museum development board, the Fresno Community Hospital board, the Fresno Chamber of Commerce, the San Joaquin College of Law board, the Fresno Downtown Club, the UC Valley Medical Education Foundation, CaP CURE Prostate Cancer Foundation, and the Rotary Club of Fresno. Ed was a friend of the late Bishop Steinbock and played a major role in the renovation of St. John's Cathedral. It was a project that Ed, a faithful Catholic who attended mass every morning, was very proud of. Ed was also a devoted family man. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Margie; a proud father to his five children, Cathie, Eddie, Steve, Marilyn, and Carol; and a loving grandfather to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect that I ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to honor the life of Ed Rontell. He will be greatly missed, but his dedication to those around him will never be forgotten.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I recognize Hermine Reiring in celebration of her 100th birthday. Hermine is part of ``America's Greatest Generation,'' and this amazing milestone deserves to be honored. Hermine was born on August 4, 1914, in Hammond, Indiana. During World War II, Hermine joined the U.S. Army and served three years in the Navy WAVES (Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service). She worked as a storekeeper in a hangar. In 1945, Hermine married Leonard Reiring, and they built their lives together in California. They lived in San Diego and Burbank before settling in Madera in 1964. Hermine and Leonard raised three children together, and today, Hermine has eight grandchildren and 16 great- grandchildren. Each day, Hermine's family has the pleasure of learning from a woman who has many special memories and life experiences to share. The City of Madera has benefitted greatly from Hermine's efforts and service to the community. In addition to working at the Madera County Administrator's office, Hermine was also a member of the Women's Improvement Group, the Historical Society, and she volunteered as a docent for the county library. Staying active in the community is important to Hermine as she still loves to participate in bake sales and volunteer at her church. Hermine's generation set an example for the coming together and establishing of our country in the 20th century. We have all been very fortunate to live and build from the investments and many sacrifices made by Hermine and others from her generation. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to honor Hermine Reiring as she celebrates this very exciting time in her life. Her service to the Madera community and the entire nation deserves to be commended.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Ironworkers Local Union 155 (Local 155) organization in celebration of their 100th anniversary. On March 11, 1914, the Local 155 came into existence. The Local 155 was founded by great visionaries who saw an opportunity to extend the services of a Local Union to the Central Valley. Starting off from humble beginnings with just a mere $28.50 in their general fund, the Local 155 has grown into a leader in the ironworker industry for not only California's Central Valley but also in parts of Nevada. The Local 155 attributes much of their success to the founding fathers of the union. Their first president, L.R. Boltinghouse, Financial Secretary, Paul Kidd, and Recording Secretary, T.F. Harrigan all took the risk and responsibility of starting a Local Union. Their efforts paved the way for many more officers and workers to follow in their footsteps and become a part of the Local 155. The Local 155 is a union which works to enrich the lives of residents in the Central Valley. They have proudly served the Fresno area and have made outstanding strides for the local economy. Although the Local 155 has battled some tough times, they always continue on with impressive resiliency. In addition, they have made great progress to improve the working conditions and wages for ironworkers. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the Ironworkers Local Union 155 in celebration of the 100th Anniversary. I would like to thank them for their service in the Central Valley and wish them many more years of success.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the life of Marion Burkett Beckham III, also known as Tom Beckham. Tom passed away on July 19, 2014, after a long bout with cancer. Tom served his country honorably during the Vietnam War with the United States Marine Corps from 1965 to 1969. During his service, Tom earned the Presidential Unit Citation, the Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with 2 stars, the Vietnam Campaign Medal with device, and the Rifle Marksman Badge. Tom was born in Clovis, California, on February 11, 1947. He was raised in the foothill area above Millerton Lake and graduated from Sierra High School. A long time musician and singer, he entertained people over a span of 40 years. He played in bands, duos, and single engagements throughout the Central Valley and up and down the State of California, as well as Nevada, Alaska and other Western States. Tom was also well known as an instrument repairman for many years. Tom spent many years raising show quality poultry that were endangered species or on the Breeds Conservancies Watch List. In addition, he was always happy to help 4-H and FFA students with their poultry projects. Tom will be remembered for his strong determination, jovial ways, and a unique sense of humor. He will be greatly missed by his wife, Joy; son, Brad Beckham; step daughter, Pamela Piek; 10 grandchildren and step grandchildren; and his brother, Forest Beckham. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect that I ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to honor the life of Tom Beckham. His presence will undoubtedly be missed, but the impact he made on our country and the community will never be forgotten.