Jim Costa

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the outstanding service and dedication of Lillian Gattie, who has worked for the Gunner family in California's Central Valley for 75 years. Born June 1, 1917 to Italian immigrants, Lillian was raised on a 20 acre farm outside of Clovis where she stills resides to this day. It was on the farm that Lillian learned the values of hard work and loyalty that would serve her well in her future career. After graduating from Clovis High School in 1935, Lillian completed business school in Fresno. Lillian began her 75 years of service to the Gunner family on March 1, 1936 in an office position with the Mission Bell Wine Company, where Vas Gunner was Vice President of Sales. Lillian continued to work for Vas Gunner when he later formed the Argun Wine Company, a successful wine distributer. Lillian was essential in handling everything from orders to accounting. As Vas Gunner continued to expand his business, Lillian's responsibilities grew as well. In the late sixties, Vas' son Richard partnered with George Andros to form Gunner and Andros Investments. Again, Lillian's duties expanded to meet the ever growing demands of the company. With Lillian's help and dedication to hard work, the company has grown into one of Fresno's leaders in commercial real estate construction and management. In 2006, Lillian was quoted in the Fresno Bee, ``Why would I want to quit? . . . I still really enjoy working, it keeps me going.'' As a testament to her work ethic, Lillian reports to work at 9 a.m. on the dot, just as she has for the past 75 years. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the hard work and dedication that Lillian Gattie has shown throughout her many years of service to the Gunner Family and George Andros. I congratulate her on her years of dedicated and successful work in our Valley.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, our national debt, as we all know, is approaching $14 trillion, with a capital ``T.'' It's clear that we can no longer afford to continue the partisan bickering and short-term thinking that too long has consumed our Nation's capital. While kicking this can down the road may have been in vogue at one time, it can no longer be afforded by our Nation. The staggering debt was not created in a day, and we can't dig ourselves out of this hole overnight, but we must stop digging. In order to tackle our debt, we must cut spending, agree to a stable source of revenue, and hold these commitments over the long term on a bipartisan basis. Partisan rhetoric will not get the job done. The Congress now has to deal with the reality of this budget mess. The longer-term continuing resolution the House passed 2 weeks ago, though, won't grow our economy and it won't create jobs in the San Joaquin Valley. And, in fact, two reports by respected economists have indicated that it will provide careless cuts and mean hundreds of thousands of jobs lost throughout the Nation. We can cut spending and we can grow our economy, but it will require shared sacrifice across the Nation by Democrats and Republicans coming together. Our Nation's fiscal health depends on it.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the thousands of Armenian Americans in my congressional district, I rise to remember the evening of February 27, 1988, when a three-day rampage began against Christian Armenian civilians living in Sumgait, Soviet Azerbaijan. Armenian civilians were at the mercy of Azerbaijani rioters, who murdered, raped, and maimed Armenians, throwing women and children from windows and burning victims alive. Soviet authorities, who had prohibited journalists from entering the area and had instituted a press blackout, estimated over 30 individuals had been killed and over 200 injured, but others estimated hundreds were murdered. In the days before the massacre, Armenians in Nagorno Karabakh had been peacefully demonstrating against decades of Soviet Azerbaijani repression and discrimination. Many believed the resulting massacres were officially sanctioned to send a message to Armenians to stop challenging Soviet Azerbaijani authorities. Within months of the Sumgait massacres, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed Amendment 2690 to the FY 1989 Foreign Operations Appropriations bill (H.R. 4782) in July 1988, concerning the Karabakh conflict and calling on the Soviet government to ``respect the legitimate aspirations of the Armenian people.'' The amendment also noted that ``dozens of Armenians have been killed and hundreds injured during the recent unrests.'' The anniversary of this horrifying instance of violence serves as a reminder that the United States must stand with those around the globe engaged in peaceful demonstrations against repression and human rights abuses.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Forty Acres in Delano, California, as it is designated as a National Historic Landmark on February 21, 2011, in a ceremony that will honor the history of this important site and the thousands of farmworkers who created the farmworker movement in the 1960s. The national significance of Forty Acres is extraordinary in every facet. Through its association with the farmworker movement, as well as with labor, civil rights, environmental and social reform interests, this land and the buildings that sit upon it helped define an important part of twentieth century American history. Acquired in the spring of 1966 by the National Farm Workers Association, Cesar Chavez had a dream for this forty-acre property. This bleak parcel of land would be transformed into a regional service center for farmworkers and an administrative headquarters for the growing union, United Farm Workers of America, which joined National Farm Workers Association, led by Cesar Chavez, and Agricultural Workers Organizing Committee, led by Larry Itliong. Between 1966 and 1974, farmworkers, aided by an assortment of supporters and volunteers, built four structures on the property: a gasoline station and automotive repair shop, a multi-purpose hall, a health clinic, and a residential building. The structures served not only the needs of the union, but also provided social services for the Chicano and Filipino community--services that were not readily available at that time. Chavez's vision was that Forty Acres would be the first of many service centers where farmworkers would be welcomed and have access to the goods and services that as low-income, migrant workers, they were not always able to receive and obtain. These individuals and their families could purchase gas and food, receive help with automobile repair, banking services, health care, legal assistance, and child care. Forty Acres was not only the administrative office and the site of the first regional service center of the UFW, but soon after, it also gained a higher level of significance because of two events that received national media attention. In February 1968, in the middle of the Delano Grape Strike, Cesar Chavez announced that he would begin a hunger fast in order to refocus union members on nonviolence efforts. Chavez set up a cot at the service station at Forty Acres and fasted for twenty-five days. He drew national attention with this action, and on March 11, 1968, Robert F. Kennedy flew to Delano to visit Chavez at the service station. The other significant event took place at Forty Acres on July 29, 1970. The growers met with the union leaders in the multi-purpose hall, and after three days of negotiations, signed union contracts, thereby ending the almost five-year table grape strike and providing basic rights to fair wages and benefits, safer working environments, and job security to more than 70,000 farmworkers. Hundreds of union members, supporters, and journalists were present for the culmination of the hard work and dedication of the farmworker movement. Forty Acres, with its mission-revival style buildings and beautiful grounds, is a piece of American history. The Roy L. Reuther Memorial Building, where the union contracts were signed; the Rodrigo Terronez Memorial Clinic, where farmworkers and their families received necessary medical services; the Pablo Agbayani Retirement Village, where aging Filipino farmworkers were provided with affordable housing; and the Service Station, where Cesar Chavez began his legendary fast that led to national recognition of the farmworker movement. Mr. Speaker, I am proud and honored to bring to your attention this important dedication. The inclusion of Forty Acres as a National Historic Landmark guarantees that this site will continue to serve as a symbol of the farmworker movement and a lesson of courage, faith and perseverance in our country's history for future generations.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 66, had I been present, I would have voted ``aye.''

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Cabrillo Civic Clubs of California on this memorable occasion of their 76th Annual Convention. I am especially honored to welcome all of the members of the Cabrillo Civic Clubs, traditionally known as ``Cabrillians'' to Lemoore, California, located in the heart of the 20th Congressional District. Organized in January 1934 and chartered on December 19 of that same year, the Cabrillo Civic Clubs of California was created by Californians of Portuguese descent to promote the legacy of Portuguese mariner Joao Rodrigues Cabrilho who is credited with the discovery of California. Early efforts to create awareness of the Portuguese compatriot resulted in two milestones, both in 1935, with the establishment of a statewide Cabrillo Day observed annually on September 28 and the creation of a Cabrillo National Monument in Point Loma, California. Cabrillians have succeeded in having State Highway 1 christened the ``Cabrillo Highway'' in 1957 and in fostering the issuance of a U.S. postal stamp in Joao Rodrigues Cabrilho's honor in 1992. Today, Cabrillo Civic Clubs of California members remain dedicated to the principals of their pioneer forefathers in the Golden State. With 12 chapters and an active membership boasting over 2,800 individuals, Cabrillians continue to engage in opportunities that promote and enhance civic progress. Special events, such as the San Diego Cabrillo Festival, Portuguese Immigrant Week and local Festas Portuguesas, allow Cabrillians to share and create awareness of Portuguese customs and traditions in communities across California. As Americans born of Portugese immigrants, Cabrillo Civic Club members are proud to live the American dream and have a deep commitment to making meaningful contributions to their communities. Cabrillians dedicate their time and resources to innumerable charitable activities, including: organizing blood drives, fund raising for polio and cancer research, assisting candidates for U.S. citizenship, and providing college scholarships for students of Portuguese descent. Cabrillians are able to give back to our communities in so many important ways throughout our great Golden State. As a son of Portuguese immigrants, I am very proud of the efforts made by the Cabrillo Civic Clubs of California that keep the legacy of my Portuguese ancestors alive and a part of the rich ethnic and cultural fabric of America. I ask my colleagues to rise with me today to express our sincere appreciation to the Cabrillo Civic Clubs of California for their extraordinary contributions to California and wish them continued success in all their endeavors.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with my colleagues Mr. Cardoza, Ms. Bordallo and Mr. Kissel to honor the memory of Major General Vang Pao of Fresno, California, who passed away Thursday January 6th after a battle with pneumonia. Major General Vang Pao led the Royal Lao Army during the Secret War in Laos, fighting against the People's Army of Vietnam in cooperation with the Central Intelligence Agency and United States military forces. Bravely leading thousands of soldiers in a guerilla war against communism, Vang Pao became a hero, due to his leadership and dedication. Growing up in the Xiengkhuang province, Vang Pao became interested in military service early in life. He left his family farm as a teenager to join the French Military in defense of his fellow Hmong as the Japanese invaded, and began a historic military career. At the end of World War II, and the departure of the Japanese, Vang Pao was recruited as an officer in the First Indochina War to fight the Viet Minh. As he rose within the Royal Lao Army, Vang Pao was heralded for his valor and dedication and was the only ethnic Hmong to attain the rank of General in the Royal Lao Army. In the early 1960's, when the CIA recruited Hmong men in Laos to join a guerrilla unit during the Vietnam War, Vang Pao was chosen to be the commander. As his Hmong soldiers rescued downed American pilots from enemy territories and defended American outposts in Laos, he gained a reputation for being a disciplined, honorable leader. The Hmong soldiers also attacked many North Vietnamese convoys that were using the Ho Chi Minh trail from North Vietnam into South Vietnam. By attacking these supply routes, thousands of U.S. soldiers' lives were saved in South Vietnam. Vang Pao and the Royal Lao Army valiantly fought for their cause throughout the entire Secret War. Immigrating to the United States in May of 1975, Major General Vang Pao was instrumental in negotiating the resettlement of thousands of his fellow Hmong. Vang Pao continued his leadership after his exit from military service. He was active in fostering U.S.-Lao relations, and combating human rights abuses abroad, as well as serving as an icon and mentor to the Hmong-American community. A widely respected figure, General Vang Pao was a constant feature at Hmong-American events and celebrations nationwide. Major General Vang Pao is survived by his widow, Mrs. May Song Vang, 25 children, 68 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren and numerous friends and community members. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join Mr. Cardoza, Ms. Bordallo, Mr. Kissel and myself in honoring the life of Major General Vang Pao as we offer our condolences to his family and celebrate his memory and service to our country.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Rosemarie Duerta Huggins for her outstanding leadership and service as the 2010 President of Cabrillo Civic Clubs of California, Inc. Rosemarie is a long-standing civic leader in California's Portuguese community. Upon joining Cabrillo Civic Club #10 Fresno County in 1967, Rosemarie embraced the mission of the Clubs, which is to be dedicated to the progress of California in memory of Portuguese compatriot, Joao Rodrigues Cabrilho, discoverer of California; to observe September 28 of each year as ``Cabrillo Day''; to erect and maintain appropriate memorials, shrines and landmarks of Portuguese navigators who discovered and explored California; to teach and foster Americanization; to promote scholarships; and encourage better education and to perpetuate the achievements of their pioneer forefathers in the Golden State. As president, Rosemarie served the Clubs' membership and communities of California with exemplary service. Her dedication led to expansion of the Clubs' charitable services and programs, including organizing blood drives, coordinating fundraising efforts for polio and cancer research, and assisting candidates for U.S. citizenship. During Rosemarie's tenure, the Clubs also awarded approximately 157 deserving students of Portuguese descent with $500 scholarships for higher education. Prior to her service as state president, Rosemarie served in several capacities to help advance the Clubs' mission, including assuming the role of president of the Club's Fresno County Chapter from 1992 to 1993. Through her chairmanship on program and fundraising committees, Rosemarie was also highly instrumental in fostering awareness of the Club's founding principles including supporting scholarship and education, Americanization, and participation in civic affairs in the local community and across California. In addition to her years of service with the California Cabrillo Civic Clubs of California, Inc., Rosemarie has successfully attended to the needs of her household, her career at Children's Hospital Central California, and her duties as an active member of the Portuguese Lodge SPRSI and Clovis Hills Community Church. Rosemarie lives by the conviction that ``It is up to us to keep our heritage alive so it will not perish.'' Her leadership and dedication is highly commendable and should serve as an example for all of us to follow. I ask my colleagues to rise with me to honor Rosemarie Duerta Huggins for her many contributions and countless efforts that have kept the Portuguese legacy vibrant in communities across California and our great nation.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Rollie Smith, Fresno Field Director with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). After 12 years of dedicated service in Fresno, Rollie is moving to Washington, D.C. to be closer to his family. Rollie Smith first came to Fresno, California in 1997 when he began work with Catholic Charities of Fresno. One year later, HUD hired Rollie as a community activist to help revitalize the City of Fresno. Rollie originally planned to help out for a few years, however his passion and commitment to the community quickly moved him up the ladder within HUD. Rollie became the Fresno Field Director in 2004 and has been doing a great job for the past seven years. Rollie received his Masters' degrees from Loyola University, Chicago Jesuit Theological School, and the University of Chicago. A natural born leader and teacher, Rollie also taught classes at Loyola University, California State University, and the University of Hawaii. One of Rollie's specialties was his unique ability to bring groups of people together to help solve issues affecting people in the Central Valley. One of these groups, the Federal Interagency Task Force, is a group that meets regularly and works together to tackle issues such as inadequate housing, poor education, health care, and low-paying jobs. Rollie will be truly missed in Fresno. I applaud Rollie Smith for his many years of tireless work on behalf of families in California and the Central Valley. I know he will enjoy more time with his wife Bernie, his son Aaron Smith and his wife Carolyn, his daughter Suzanne Chartol and her husband J.P. Chartol, and his three grandchildren Adeline, Claire, and Remy Chartol. Mr. Speaker, it should be noted that in addition to his countless gifts to our community, Rollie has been a true champion for my constituents. He and his team have always been available to discuss issues and work together to make our Central Valley a better place. I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing the commitment, dedication and success of Rollie Smith and wish him well as he embarks on new endeavors.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 15, had I been present, I would have voted ``aye.''

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Community Regional Medical Center on the occasion of the grand opening of Terry's House, a new, state-of-the-art facility in downtown Fresno, California, which will provide much needed support and housing to allow families to stay close to sick and injured loved ones in the hospital. Located in the heart of the Fresno medical district, this new 15,874 square-foot, two- story family house with twenty guest suites will be the first hospitality house in the Greater Fresno Area. This residential facility is named in honor of Terry Richards who suffered and survived a serious trauma at the age of five when he was injured in a car accident. For nearly five months, his mother was forced to travel nearly 80 miles a day to see her son while he was recovering in the hospital. Currently, family members of patients must seek accommodations miles from the hospital, and many who cannot afford lodging sleep in waiting rooms, in their cars or try their best to find a spot in a busy hospital. Often, patients' loved ones have no alternative but to leave the hospital and make the long drive home. Now families have Terry's House, their home away from home, while their loved ones receive care. Terry's House was made possible by the tireless work of Terry Richards' brother, Tom Richards, a local community developer and CEO of the Penstar Group. With the dedication of Tom Richards, Leta Ciavaglia, the Terry's House Development Council, the Community Regional Medical Center Foundation and many generous members of the community, a family dream has become a reality. Mr. Speaker, I applaud Terry's House and its many supporters for their efforts to create a facility which keeps families together during times of need. I ask my colleagues to join me in commending Tom Richards and the community members of Fresno who have worked unremittingly to make the opening of Terry's House possible.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today with my colleagues, Mr. Radanovich and Mr. Cardoza to extend our sincerest congratulations to California State University, Fresno as they celebrate their centennial anniversary. As Fresno State celebrates its 100th anniversary, the university is ``Powering the New California'' in our rapidly changing region as we move forward in the 21st Century. California State University, Fresno, also known as Fresno State, has evolved from its founding as a teachers college to become a renowned center for higher learning in the Central Valley with eight schools and colleges serving over twenty thousand students. Fresno State was originally founded as Fresno State Normal School on September 11, 1911 under the guidance of its first president Mr. Charles L. McLane. In 1921, Fresno State Normal School changed its name to Fresno State Teachers College and began to share a campus with another fine local institution, Fresno City College, to provide a quality education to local students for whom the distance of universities such as the University of California and Stanford University was too great a hardship. Fresno State Normal School would change its name again to Fresno State College in 1934, and in 1949 the first advanced degrees in English and Education were granted. Forty- five years after Fresno State first opened its doors, it relocated to its present location on Shaw and Cedar Avenues in 1956, where it currently sits on over three hundred acres of land. In 1961, Fresno State College became the charter institution of the California State University System and would officially become known as California State University, Fresno in 1972. Today, Fresno State enrolls more than 21,500 undergraduate students and 4,400 graduate students and offers Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees. In 2011, Fresno State will graduate its 100th class with an anticipated 5,500 students graduating from the institution. Notable among the academic programs at Fresno State, the Sid Craig School of Business has been nationally recognized by the Princeton Review as a ``Top Business School,'' the Jordan College of Agricultural Science and Technology oversees the only commercial winery in the country run by a university, and the Lyles College of Engineering has the only Geomatics undergraduate program in the Nation. Fresno State is also home to the Henry Madden Library, which with over one million books is the largest academic library between Sacramento and Los Angeles, and serves as a learning resource for the entire region. It is programs and institutions such as these that truly embody the excellence of Fresno State. Fresno State has not only established itself as a leader in academics, but also in athletics; the school has gained national recognition through their various sports programs such as football, baseball and soccer. For instance, in 1998, Fresno State's women's softball team won the NCAA Women's College World Series by defeating the defending two-time former champions, the University of Arizona. Additionally, a decade later, the Fresno State men's baseball team climbed their way through the College World Series as the lowest ranked seed in post-season play to capture the 2008 NCAA title in a shocking defeat of the University of Georgia. Fresno State's distinguished alumni include Mayor of Fresno, California Ashley Swearingin, three- time Olympic Gold Medalist Laura Berg, former NASA Astronaut and Mission Commander of the Space Shuttle Columbia Colonel Rick Husband, U.S. Ambassador to Colombia and Honduras Phillip V. Sanchez, former U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Paul H. O'Neill, former Nevada Governor Kenny Guinn, and 2001 Super Bowl winning quarterback Trent Dilfer. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join with Mr. Radanovich, Mr. Cardoza and myself, in recognizing California State University, Fresno as they celebrate their centennial anniversary and continue their outstanding educational leadership for students throughout the Central Valley and the State of California.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today with my colleagues Mr. Cardoza, Mr. Kennedy, Mr. Langevin and Mr. Neal, to pay tribute to Mr. Joseph Eugene Quinn who passed away on December 3, 2010 at the age of seventy. Mr. Quinn was an extraordinary man who will long be remembered. Joseph Eugene Quinn was born in Pawtucket, Rhode Island on March 1, 1940, the third of four sons to the late Joseph L. and Mary E. Quinn. Joseph Eugene, known as Gene by friends and family, attended St. Raphael Academy in Pawtucket and excelled on the football and basketball teams. He graduated from Providence College in 1960 and maintained a life-long commitment to the intellectual and spiritual traditions of the Dominican Order. After graduation, Gene enlisted in the United States Army. While serving in the military, he travelled extensively and befriended a wide spectrum of people who delighted in exchanging viewpoints on religion, politics and sports. After his discharge from the Army, Gene moved to Largo, Florida where he became president of Bardmoor Country Club, a real estate and resort development. Gene later moved to Washington, DC and worked on Ronald Reagan's reelection bid in 1984. Mr. Quinn went on to hold a series of increasingly important positions with the Federal Government, and being a fond admirer of President Reagan, he took great pride later in his career when telling friends that he worked in the Ronald Reagan Building. At the time of his passing, Gene was an international trade specialist and project officer for Global Trade Programs at the U.S. Department of Commerce. Although Mr. Quinn lived in the Washington area for three decades he considered Rhode Island his home and always enjoyed spending summers there. Mr. Quinn leaves behind his loving wife, Marguerite Slocum Quinn, to whom he was married twenty-three years. They were both founding members of the Anacostia Gracious Arts Program, an urban afterschool arts program for underprivileged youth in Washington. Gene was also a member of the Spouting Rock Beach Association in Newport, RI, the Clambake Club of Newport, the Providence College Alumni Association, and the American Ireland Fund. In addition to his wife, Mr. Quinn is survived by his daughter, Tara, her husband Andrew Reilly, and his grandchildren, Andrew and Fiona of Middletown, RI. He is also survived by his brothers, Paul of McLean, VA, Thomas of Washington, DC, Francis of New York City, and their families. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join Mr. Cardoza, Mr. Kennedy, Mr. Langevin, Mr. Neal and I in remembering the life of this remarkable man as we offer our condolences to his family and celebrate his memory and service to our country.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today with my colleagues Mr. Radanovich, Mr. Cardoza, and Mr. Nunes to pay tribute to Bishop John T. Steinbock who passed away on December 5, 2010 at the age of seventy- three in Fresno, California. Bishop Steinbock was a key figure in the Diocese in Fresno which serves more than one million parishioners in eight counties from as far north as Merced County to as far south as Kern County. Bishop John T. Steinbock was born on July 16, 1937 in Los Angeles, California. He was one of three boys born to Leo and Thelma Steinbock. As a child, the Bishop learned to read from racing forms at the horsetracks and learned to count by playing blackjack. The Bishop's decision to turn towards the priesthood came after his two brothers had joined the seminary. He attended a rigorous college preparatory high school designed for young men considering the priesthood and graduated in 1955. After spending the summer of 1958 learning Spanish at a boardinghouse in Mexico City, he decided that he wanted to become a priest. On May 1, 1963, Bishop Steinbock was ordained into the priesthood. Upon is ordainment, Bishop Steinbock was assigned to Resurrection Parish located in the Hispanic barrio in Los Angeles, California. During Bishop Steinbock's time in Resurrection Parish, he developed his reputation as a great administrator, a valued skill which would lead his promotion within the Catholic Church. In 1973, Bishop Steinbock was transferred to St. Vibiana's Catholic Cathedral near Skid Row in Los Angeles. During the Bishop's time in East Los Angeles, he ministered to the poor and homeless, often dealing with individuals suffering from mental illness, drug and alcohol addiction, and physical abuse. Bishop Steinbock also became a police chaplain for the Los Angeles Police Department. When reflecting on his time in East Los Angeles, Bishop Steinbock wrote, ``The greatest suffering was the loneliness and despair I found in the lives of so many.'' Bishop Steinbock would have been content to stay a priest; however he was informed by the late Cardinal Timothy Manning that the late Pope John Paul II had named him to be a Bishop. Bishop Steinbock was hesitant to accept the honor, but was convinced by Cardinal Manning's message that the Pope was simply acting in accordance with God's will for Bishop Steinbock's life. His first assignment as Bishop was in Orange County serving from 1984 to 1987. He would later serve in Santa Rosa, California until he arrived in Fresno, California in 1991. Bishop Steinbock arrived in Fresno to lead a diocese and quickly rose to the occasion, solving several inherited challenges such as a $3 million deficit. In addition, during the Bishop's first decade in Fresno the diocese undertook seventy major building or renovation projects on churches, parish halls, offices, and school classrooms. Bishop Steinbock's style of ministry was uniquely his own. He sought out technology and innovation as a means for communication, evangelization, teaching, and formation. The Bishop also recognized the need for personal and genuine love and concern for his brother priests who were never far from his thoughts and prayers. Bishop Steinbock personally celebrated the Sacrament of Confirmation for virtually every young adult in the Diocese, except in a handful of all the eighty-eight diocesan parishes. Bishop Steinbock's pastoral messages, homilies, and Masses often addressed immigrants, farm workers, the unemployed, the imprisoned, those without health care, restorative justice and love for one's neighbor. Despite the Bishop's busy schedule, he made time to visit each office in the Pastoral Center to spend time with staff and volunteers. On October 23, 2009, Bishop Steinbock celebrated his Silver Jubilee as Bishop of the Diocese of Fresno. Madam Speaker, Mr. Radanovich, Mr. Cardoza, Mr. Nunes, and I ask our colleagues to join us in honoring the life of Bishop John T. Steinbock as we offer our condolences to his family and celebrate his memory and service to the Diocese of Fresno and California.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of extending tax cuts to American families and businesses. This week, we have a choice. Congress can continue the campaign politics of the past year or Republicans and Democrats can set aside their talking points and get something done for the American people. I support the latter. In my district, families are putting together their budgets and trying to make ends meet under difficult times. Small businesses are trying to make hiring decisions for next year. Family farmers are scared of losing their operations due to a looming bump in the estate tax, their inability to pass the farms on to their children. In this struggling, fragile economic recovery, we cannot afford to let this happen. After months of partisan gridlock, it's time for Members of this House to listen to the American people and prevent their taxes from going up on January 1. Delay is not an option. I call on the Congress to send the commonsense compromise, that is a compromise--that means by its very nature we have things that we like and things we dislike in the package--before us and send it to the President's desk, and then we must get serious about addressing and putting our Nation's fiscal house in order, which is job number one.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I know the great work that Chairman Dingell did on this effort. Unfortunately, I cannot support the continuing resolution food safety effort. The good work we did here in the House that was sent over to the Senate, the Senate amendments make it a flawed measure. This process should be based on science and not based on miles and sales. For those reasons, I, unfortunately, will oppose the resolution. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank Chairman Emeritus Dingell for his support. I rise today to reluctantly oppose the Continue Resolution and attached Food Safety bill. Unfortunately leadership has chosen to attach a gravely-flawed food safety bill to this continuing resolution which I cannot support. Don't misunderstand--I am a huge supporter of food safety reform, I have worked on for almost 4 years. However--the Senate poisoned our efforts by attaching arbitrary exemptions that ignore risk and leave gaping holes in our food safety system--through the Tester amendment. I wholeheartedly support protecting our family farmers--ensuring that they are not overburdened with paperwork and regulation. But this process should be based on science--not based on miles and sales, therefore I am voting no. Does anyone here believe food poisoning is less dangerous if it comes from a small farm rather than a large one? Even more concerning is that these regulations have trade implications. With a great number of farms in Canada and Mexico well within the 275 mile threshold, we will be providing a loophole large enough to drive a Mexican truck through. I'd like to remind my colleagues that the Serrano peppers that sickened over 1,000 people and devastated a wrongfully-accused tomato industry came from a small distributor in Texas--imported from a small farm in Mexico. I ask my colleagues--did the size of this farm prevent those men, women and children from becoming ill? No. Of course it didn't. Because contaminated food can and does come from any size and any location and is no less deadly in some cases if consumed. That is why I have worked on food safety and will continue to work on food safety. And that is, unfortunately, why I am unable to support the Senate food safety bill with the Tester amendment included in its current form.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today with my colleague Mr. Cardoza to congratulate Fresno Metro Ministry on the occasion of their 40th anniversary, aptly recognized as a community service organization that champions ``working together to build a better community.'' Founded in 1970, Fresno Metro Ministry was conceived and developed as a multi- faith, multi-cultural organization with the mission of creating a more respectful, compassionate and inclusive community that promotes social and economic justice. Fresno Metro Ministry's success stems from working in collaboratives and engaging in community education, advocacy, and community problem-solving by building coalitions, networking, conducting workshops and conferences, and developing and supporting task forces to address community issues that affect underserved communities. The community of Fresno is proud to be home to such a great organization dedicated to the advancement of the less fortunate in our region. For 40 years Fresno Metro Ministry has been making a positive impact in the lives of members of our community and I know that it will continue to do so in the future. Throughout the years, Fresno Metro Ministry has spearheaded projects that have helped bridge the needs of low-income residents and existing community services in the greater Fresno area. This includes projects such as the development and publication of the ``Making Connections Community Resource Directory'' and the establishment of Latinos United for Clear Air, a neighborhood parent group who completed advocacy training sessions and went on to advocate for cleaner air and reductions of toxic pollutants at the local and state level. Community partnerships have also led to the adoption of a School Wellness Policy by the Fresno Unified School District to assist in the prevention of childhood obesity and the creation of community gardens in partnership with the city of Fresno. Furthermore, the Metro Ministry was instrumental in developing the New Leaders for Better Health program which provides health education and advocacy training for low-income residents, many of whom are non-English speaking and immigrant refugees. It is fitting and appropriate that we recognize an organization of the caliber of the Fresno Metro Ministry today. Giving a voice to those who too often do not have one has been the noble mission at the forefront of this organization and advocating for improvement in the health, education, nutrition and community betterment opportunities of a region is no light task. I ask my colleagues to join with Mr. Cardoza and I in honoring Fresno Metro Ministry on the occasion of their 40th anniversary and thank them for their tireless work and enormous contributions to our community in the greater area of Fresno, California.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Lawrence ``Larry'' G. Huebner who passed away on November 28, 2010 at the age of 79. Larry Huebner was an extraordinary man who lived each day to the fullest and whose contributions to the game of tennis as a player, teacher, and advocate are unmatched in the community. He is survived by his wife of 56 years Gretchen, daughter Karin, sons Jim and John, and five grandchildren. Larry Huebner graduated from Fresno High School in 1949 and went on to attend the University of California, Los Angeles, where he earned a Bachelor's Degree in Business. While attending UCLA, Larry won an NCAA doubles title in Men's Tennis and was captain of two Bruins National Championship teams. After graduating from UCLA, he joined the U.S. Navy, where he volunteered as a ship Chaplain and would later become a Lieutenant while stationed in Hawaii. During Larry's service in the Navy, he played in high-level exhibition tennis matches while developing friendships that would last a lifetime. After his service in the Navy, Larry returned to Fresno, California, where he joined his father, Jim Sr., to manage Huebner Sports. In 1963, he helped found the Fig Garden Swim & Racquet Club, continuing his passion for the sport of tennis and giving the community a welcoming place to enjoy the game. Larry's passion for tennis was passed on to his children as he won national senior parent/child doubles championships with all three of his children in 2003. In recognition of those momentous victories, Larry and his wife Gretchen were flown to the 2004 U.S. Open in Flushing Meadows, New York. It was at the 2004 U.S. Open that he was presented with a heavy, 10-inch-high crystal Tiffany trophy which is still displayed with pride at the Huebners' home in Fresno. In 2007, Larry and his daughter Karin played together in what would be his final competitive tournament. Larry and Karin would win the Super Senior Father-Daughter grass court title at the Longwood Cricket Club in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts. Larry's health took a turn for the worse in May 2010 when he was diagnosed with stomach cancer. Despite his diagnosis, he continued to give back to the game of tennis in his final days. Two weeks before Larry had made his final serve, he was giving lessons to a 10-year-old girl. It was Larry's love for the game of tennis that bonded his family together and will always remain his legacy. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in remembering the life of this remarkable man as we offer our condolences to his family and celebrate his memory and service to our community and California.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the achievement of Lou Xiong on the occasion of receiving the 2010 Milken Educator Award from the Milken Family Foundation. The Milken Family Foundation's Milken Educator Award seeks to celebrate, elevate, and activate exemplary K-12 educators and has been hailed as the ``Oscars of Teaching.'' Ms. Xiong was one of 55 educators across our Nation, and one of only three in the State of California, to be honored this year. Lou was born in Laos as the fifth of 12 children to Chong Sue Xiong and Khou Moua. In 1980, Lou and her family immigrated to the United States from Laos in search of a better life. After attending high school in the Fresno area, Lou enrolled at California State University, Fresno, and graduated in 1999 with a Bachelors of Arts degree in Liberal Studies. Upon graduation, Lou joined the staff at Balderas Elementary School in Fresno, California, to follow her dream of becoming a teacher. Over the last 11 years at Balderas Elementary School, Ms. Xiong has taught a variety of subjects to students in the fourth, fifth and sixth grades and contributed immensely to both her students and the school. In addition to her teaching duties, Lou has volunteered her time in school site responsibilities serving as Grade Level Chair, participating in the Leadership Team, serving on the School Site Building Committee and acting as Coordinator of the Hmong New Year Celebration. Outside of the classroom, Lou has served as a Math Coach for the Fresno Unified School District, helping fellow teachers and assisting in creating a pacing guideline program which is now used throughout the district. Lou has also been actively involved in Fresno Unified School District's Superintendent's English Learner Task Force to ensure that language barriers do not keep students from succeeding in school. Lou's life story serves as a positive example for her students, demonstrating that despite the obstacles she has had to overcome as an immigrant, anything is possible with hard work and determination. The community of Fresno is very fortunate to have such a dedicated individual who continues to inspire students to believe they can achieve anything. Lou is married to her husband Shue Vue, a civil engineer for the State of California Department of Transportation. Lou and Shue Vue have three children together and hope that the success they have achieved in their chosen professions provides inspiration for their children to achieve their own personal success in life and give back to their communities. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the achievement of Lou Xiong in the field of education as she is recognized as one of a select few top educators in our country by the Milken Family Foundation.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the American Legion Merle Reed Post 124 of Delano, California on the occasion of the 90th anniversary of their charter. In honor of this momentous occasion, the Post will celebrate at the Past Commanders and Past Presidents of the American Legion Family dinner on December 4, 2010 at the Legion Hall in Delano, California. The roots of the American Legion in Delano began with John Robertson Quinn, a World War I veteran from Delano, California. After finding that the nearest American Legion Post was located in Bakersfield, California nearly a day's drive from his home, John Robertson Quinn organized an American Legion Post in Delano to ensure local veterans had a site to gather closer to home. The Post was named Merle Reed Post 124 in memory of Private Cyrus Merle Reed, United States Army, who was the only soldier from Delano, California killed in action during World War I. Merle Reed Post 124 received its charter on September 17, 1920. John Robertson Quinn served as the first Post Commander, and was later elected to serve as American Legion State Commander in 1921. John Robertson Quinn was also elected as the first National Commander from the State of California and west of the Mississippi River in 1923. After years of meeting at several locations throughout Delano, John Robertson Quinn's family donated the property at the corner 8th Avenue and Kensington Street in Delano, California to the Post for a building. The first Merle Reed Post 124 building was completed in 1924. American Legion National Commander John Robertson Quinn dedicated the building in June 1924 during an official visit to his home Post. Today, the American Legion hall in Delano still hosts many American Legion activities and serves as a hall for community purposes. Merle Reed Post 124 has continued to be an integral part of the Delano community since its inception, and is the only veterans' organization in the Delano area. Currently the Post has 110 members and continues to grow and attract new members through its active participation in community service. The Merle Reed Post 124 Legionnaires, as well as the Merle Reed Post 124 Auxiliary, chartered in 1921 and the Sons of the American Legion Squadron, chartered in 1999, share the positive attitude that has made this veterans' organization strong and responsive to the needs of the veterans in North Kern and South Tulare County. Each year, the Post participates in the Annual Memorial Service at North Kern Cemetery in Delano. Merle Reed Post 124 has sponsored over 100 high school juniors to attend California Boys State, where participants learn the functions of our government. In addition, the Post participates in community events and festivals, always providing a positive image of our veterans. For years, Merle Reed Post 124's 1917 Hinckley Army Truck and 1921 Model T Ford Car have been crowd favorites in local parades. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing American Legion Post 124 and its members on its 90th anniversary. I also ask that you join me in honoring its membership for their service to their community and its veterans, and for their commitment to the ideals of the American Legion.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Albert ``Al'' Pombo who passed away on November 19, 2010. Al Pombo was an extraordinary man and a favorite of racing fans throughout California, but also a personal hero of mine. I ask that portions of an article published by The Fresno Bee be entered into the Record. Al kissed bumpers and babies in a hard-charging auto racing career in the Central Valley that often angered competitors while captivating fans, young and old, died Friday at Veterans Hospital in Fresno. He was 85. ``He was just talented, very good--he was the best,'' another former Valley racer, Dan Green, said Saturday of Mr. Pombo, who launched his career at Merced Speedway in the jalopy class in 1948, went on to compete in dirt cars, hardtops, sprint cars and super modifieds and won more than 500 main events, seven NASCAR supermodified titles and numerous championships at short tracks throughout California before he retired in 1971. He actually came out of retirement for one final race, driving Al Brazil's circle No. 3 sprint car at Clovis Speedway in 1976. ``They broke the mold when they made him,'' Kings Speedway promoter Dave Swindell once said of Mr. Pombo, the state's top hardtop racer in the 1960s. Kenny Takeuchi, a former announcer at Kearney Bowl and other tracks across the state, once said: ``He was dedicated to the sport. Whether it's God-given or not, he had real driving talent and competition never fazed him. He was also good on dirt or pavement, and that's rare to find today.'' Mr. Pombo was particularly dedicated to the Valley. ``He had the ability to go back East,'' Green said, ``but he never did really care about going on to Indy and the big time. He was a local guy and very few people beat him.'' Mr. Pombo fancied the tight, quarter-mile oval at the old Kearney Bowl, where his duels with Marshall Sargent riveted the Valley racing audience in the 1950s and '60s and helped pump racing blood back into the hearts of those still mourning the 1955 Indianapolis 500 loss of Fresno icon Billy Vukovich Sr. It was at Kearney Bowl--once Fresno Airport Speedway, and then Italian Park Speedway--where Vukovich forged his career from 1936-47 behind the wheel of the little red ``Old Ironsides'' before crowds approaching 20,000 that routinely arrived for Sunday night midgets. It was primarily there and at Clovis Speedway that Mr. Pombo developed a Valley fan following arguably only exceeded by Vukovich in the region's history of auto racing. Mr. Pombo's popularity hardly faded deep into his retirement as it was common to see him in recent years smooching babies and being swarmed by kids and adults at autograph sessions at Valley tracks. He couldn't be torn away from his passion, even though he used a wheelchair in his final months. He made his last appearance, signing his hats, T-shirts and pictures per usual, Oct. 22-23 at the Trophy Cup at Tulare's Thunderbowl Raceway. Mr. Pombo was taken there by longtime friend Paul Reiter, his designated driver for years. And, to the end, Reiter witnessed many who bowed to the icon. ``People from way back would tell their kids to shake this man's hands, the legend of all time,'' said Reiter, a former soda vendor at Kearney Bowl. ``People would tell him, `You're the greatest driver . . . you gave us so many nights of thrills . . . I met my wife at the track and watched your whole career.' Most memorable were the duels with Sargent that found metal to metal and occasional fist to fist. So intense was their rivalry, bleacher brawling was common among fans fighting in defense of one or the other racers. And so prominent in Valley racing annals, a tribute is still paid in the form of the annual Pombo-Sargent Classic at Kings Speedway. ``We were always the best friends in the world,'' once said Pombo, also namesake of the Al Pombo Classic that continues at Madera Speedway. ``But when the green flag dropped, we'd come out fighting. Sometimes, we'd mix it up a bit, but we'd always end up in the bar partying.'' Daughter of Al Pombo's son, Tony, she said her grandfather hadn't walked since falling and breaking his hip in late June. Since, he had remained at Fresno's Veterans Hospital. And it was there that Reiter would pick him up, drive him to tracks in Tulare, Chowchilla, Madera and Hanford, and return him the same night, as late as 2 a.m. ``He loved kids, he loved people, he loved everybody,'' Reiter said. ``You couldn't ask for a better guy. He was my hero.'' Al was born in the Azores on June 3, 1925. He is preceded in death by his wife Pat, and children Diana, David, and Albert Jr. Al is survived by his children, Alisa and Larry McDonald, Patty Micheli, Debbie Pombo, Tony and Susan Pombo, Pat Ruch, and fifteen grandchildren and eleven great- grandchildren. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in remembering the life of this remarkable man, and one of my personal heroes, as we offer our condolences to his family and celebrate his memory and service to our community and California.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the Sikh American community on the occasion of Sikh American Awareness and Appreciation Month which is celebrated in November. For over a century, California's Central Valley has boasted a flourishing concentration of Sikh Americans, sharing a rich history, mutual understanding, and shared principles. In 1912, the first Sikh Gudwara in the United States was established in Stockton, California as Sikh Americans settled in the region, coming to labor in agricultural and railroad pursuits. Over the years, Sikh Americans have found many successes as over 700,000 have made their homes across our nation. From serving as Members of Congress, such as Dalip Singh Saund did for three terms, to Mayors of California cities such as San Joaquin, Sikh Americans have quickly become an active force in American public policy. When leading industry positions in agriculture, small business, and medicine, Sikh Americans bring a distinctive pride to many endeavors, and an unparalleled work ethic. On the first Sunday of each November Sikh Americans throughout our nation celebrate the coronation day of Sikh Scripture as Guru Gaddi Divas with parades and festivals. As we strive to appreciate the vibrant diversity and contributions of all religions and cultures in our nation, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the Sikh American community as they celebrate Sikh American Awareness and Appreciation Month this November.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today before my esteemed colleagues to recognize and honor the distinguished service of an exceptional man. The contributions of this man to the California agriculture industry and our water resources epitomize the spirit of industriousness and persistence found in the agricultural communities across our country. I would like to recognize Mr. Marvin A. Meyers on being named the recipient of the ``2010 Agriculturist of the Year'' award by the Greater Fresno Area Chamber of Commerce. A leader in the development of private water banking, Meyers, himself, farms on the Westside of Fresno County in Mendota. Meyers, who cares for 3,500 acres of almonds in the Firebaugh area, admits his impatience over finding a solution to water shortages drove him to begin developing a water bank. After years of preliminary work, including pilot projects and working with the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and other agencies, Meyers received federal approval in 2002 to begin operating the bank. Meyers pumps water into the underground bank during wet years and pumps water out during dry years to help make water available when farmers need it most. The bank became invaluable last year after three consecutive dry years and regulatory decisions limited the availability of federal water to our Valley. Meyers' hard work and innovation has translated into the success of his operation and the continuation of a family farm. The Agriculturist of the Year award is given each year to an individual who exemplifies leadership and integrity and whose achievements have significantly affected the community. The Greater Fresno Area Chamber of Commerce has made a wise choice in their selection of Meyers. Meyers' actions demonstrate his dedication to his community. He is a visionary, a person who epitomizes altruism and believes in giving back to his community. Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting with Marvin and touring his water bank and wildlife project near the outskirts of Mendota, California. The impressive project included five different holding pools all conveyed via gravity and an installation of solar panels that was being erected as we toured that day. Through his water bank and wildlife refuge projects, Meyers educates groups of local students from kindergarten to high school on the importance of water education and wildlife restoration. Going beyond the call, Meyers offers assistance in transportation costs for school buses to travel to and from his site, allowing many school districts and students affected by the recession the opportunity to learn outside the classroom about issues affecting our Valley. Marvin Meyers is truly a remarkable man--always persistent, always engaged. Marvin is the kind of advocate that the agriculture industry needs on its side. I have come to know this man well since my days in the California State Legislature, and know firsthand that this award, though meritorious, is only a small part of the recognition Marvin deserves for his many accomplishments. I offer my congratulations to Marvin Meyers today on receiving this distinguished honor and commend him before my colleagues for his contributions to the agriculture industry of California and to our Nation.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Tree Fresno on the occasion of their 25th anniversary celebration. Tree Fresno has made a significant impact on the community of Fresno by promoting environmental stewardship programs and educating the community on the importance of preserving the environment. During their quarter-century of work, Tree Fresno has been responsible for planting over 37,000 trees in the greater Fresno area. Tree Fresno was founded in 1985 during the city of Fresno's centennial anniversary by a group of concerned citizens dedicated to improving the local environment and preserving green spaces. Initial efforts from this group came to fruition in the form of a telethon raising $27,000 which was used to purchase trees to be planted in the downtown and Tower District areas. While Tree Fresno's primary focus is on preserving green space in the community of Fresno, educational programs remain an important aspect of Tree Fresno's mission. Educational and stewardship programs such as Trees for Campuses & Kids and the Junior Board of Directors help teach Valley children the value of green spaces and caring for the environment. The Trees for Campuses & Kids program, which has planted over 4,100 trees on Fresno County school campuses, is only one example of the great services Tree Fresno provides to the community. Community support, including endowment and membership programs, has helped Tree Fresno accomplish a variety of projects in the Fresno community. Examples of these initiatives include the planting of 500 trees along the McKinley Avenue Canal Bank and 939 trees on Blackstone Avenue, as well as partnerships such the ``A Shade Better'' program with Pacific Gas & Electric which allowed for 400 trees to be provided to homeowners to reduce energy costs. Through their efforts, Tree Fresno has planted over an average of a thousand trees a year in Central California. Tree Fresno also continues to make progress on the Friant Oak Loop-Scenic Highway Beautification and Reforestation Project and the Master Urban Parkway Plan which will create a network of over 200 miles of urban trails and connect schools, parks, and recreation areas. In honor of Tree Fresno's 25th anniversary, they are launching a new endeavor called the ``Real Green'' program which aims to plant 100,000 trees over the next 10 years in partnership with organizations in the Fresno area. Tree Fresno's 25 years of advocacy for green spaces has contributed immensely to making the Central Valley a better place to live, work and raise a family. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Tree Fresno on the occasion of their 25th Anniversary and applaud their tireless work and enormous contributions as they continue their mission to preserve green space and provide environmental education for the community of Fresno.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the students, faculty, staff and administration at West Hills College, North District Center as they are recognized for being named as one of ``America's 50 Best Community Colleges'' in August 2010 by the Washington Monthly. Chancellor of West Hills Community College District Frank Gornick, President of West Hills College-Coalinga Willard Lewallen, Director of the North District Center Marcel Hetu, and the Board of Trustees deserve special recognition for their leadership and commitment to education in our Valley. The beginnings of this fine institution were set in motion during the Great Depression and it is to the credit of the greatest generation and their forward thinking that this college came to be. Established to provide much needed educational opportunities for our Valley's rural areas, West Hills College has been on the forefront of efforts to ensure the hardworking residents of the Central Valley have access to a quality education and the opportunity to improve their circumstances. The North District Center shares in the wonderful history of the local community, having been a restaurant, a bowling alley, and business offices prior to the service it provides today to students. The college district includes campuses in Lemoore and Coalinga, with numerous satellite operations in nearby towns enhancing educational access for our Westside communities. West Hills College has shown great commitment to supporting student learning and providing educational, cultural, and economic development opportunities to students and the local and global communities that they serve. Academic and vocational programs, including administration of justice, agriculture, child development and nursing among many others, give local students the tools they need to succeed. West Hills College has truly become a premier interactive learner-centered community college and it is fitting that this institution is recognized today for its contribution to our Valley's educational, social, cultural and economic vitality. I am proud to have West Hills Community College as part of my congressional district and furthermore proud to have an alumnus of the North District Center as a member of my staff. It was with great honor that I spoke at commencement ceremonies in May 2006, and it is again with that same honor that I rise today to celebrate West Hills College and their outstanding programs. It goes without saying, ``Once you go here, you can go anywhere.'' As we celebrate one of America's best, let us applaud the dedication West Hills Community College has shown to the community throughout the years. Please accept my warmest congratulations on being rated the 34th Best Community College in America and the highest ranking community college in California and our deepest thanks for your contributions to our Valley.