Jim Costa

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I thank Congressman John Garamendi, a friend and a person who I have worked with on a host of issues over the years, and Congressman Dusty Johnson. This is a good example of what bipartisan cooperation is all about. Mr. Speaker, I commend Congressman Garamendi's leadership in this effort--a member of the subcommittee and the full committee--with Congressman DeFazio in working out the differences, which was important. Having said that, the Ocean Shipping Reform Act, of which I am a cosponsor, is the first major update in Federal regulations for global ocean shipping since 1998. Think about how much the world has changed in 23 years in terms of trade. This legislation, as I said, is a result of bipartisan efforts. This legislation supports U.S. exporters who have been disproportionately impacted by unfair trade practices in our ports and harbors. No ship arriving with imports should leave an American port empty when products are ready to go, and that is what is happening, sadly. Enacting strong regulatory framework will help end these disruptions to deal with the issue of demurrage and backup on the supply chain that has created this bottleneck. We can and must do more to ensure that all exporters in this country have a fair and level playing field. California agricultural producers, as well as other U.S. exporters should be able to ship their products without unnecessary delays. It is a national security issue. The increased shipping container costs and delays exporters are facing only continue to impact our recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Let me give you a local example. California is our Nation's largest agricultural producer and exporter with more than 400 commodities, over a third of the Nation's vegetables and two-thirds of the Nation's fruits and nuts. Forty-four percent of California's agriculture production is exported. The San Pedro Bay Complex, which we otherwise call the Los Angeles and Long Beach Ports in southern California is the ninth busiest in the world and provides importation of 40 percent of the container industry in America. Think about that. This is where the bottleneck is most acute. It is necessary that we utilize all resources to reduce port congestion and empower the Federal Maritime Commission to do what they can and should do. This is about short-term and long-term solutions to relieve the bottleneck in this supply chain. This is about an effort to, in fact, provide relief that benefits American workers, American consumers. It is about the economic recovery; it is about trade; and it is about jobs. I urge my colleagues to support this important bipartisan piece of legislation. It is a part of the short-term and long-term solution. I recommend a ``yes'' vote on this legislation.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the retirement of CBS47 anchor and Central Valley news icon, Ken Malloy. Ken has served as a journalist, reporter, and anchor for nearly 39 years, and he will be dearly missed by the Central Valley. Ken was born and raised in Los Angeles. There, he attended and graduated from the prestigious University of Southern California, Ken began his career as an anchor and reporter at KESQ in Palm Springs, California, where he was recognized for his breaking news coverage. Thereafter, he moved to New Hampshire, where he reported at WMUR and hosted an award-winning weekly political talk show that took home two Golden Mike Awards. Ken continued his pursuit of groundbreaking news coverage when he ventured to Providence, Rhode Island. He served as a co-anchor and reporter at WJAR, the number one-rated station in the city. While there, Ken served on the Board of Directors for the state's adoption exchange program and produced weekly ``Tuesday's Child'' segments and half-hour specials on child adoption. These efforts served as a true testament to his purposeful reporting. Ken came to Fresno, California, to join CBS47 after a stint at KTVT, the CBS Owned and Operated station in Dallas, Texas, where he anchored and reported for almost 12 years. In Fresno, Ken started as the weekend co-anchor, before launching the station's first morning show and serving as the primary anchor. Ken has covered some of the most prolific moments in American history. This includes his coverage of the Oklahoma City Bombing, Timothy McVeigh's execution, and the capture of the ``Texas Seven.'' He took on the courageous responsibility of covering the 9-11 attacks, along with the 2000 presidential race. Ken's diligence and work ethic was put on full display while he stayed on the road for six weeks during the Election Cycle. Today, we pride Ken for his work as an award-winning journalist, anchor, and community leader. Since 1984, he has anchored more than 30,000 newscasts, written more than 10,000 stories, and received countless awards and recognitions. His presence, charisma, and consistency will always be missed as a part of his greater legacy here in the Central Valley. I join his wife Michelle, their three wonderful children, and friends in congratulating Ken for all his achievements. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the work and retirement of Ken Malloy. His service and contributions to the Central Valley will be missed and we wish him all the best for the future.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Kathryn Bonnie Hassett. Kathryn passed away in her Merced home on August 26, 2021 after a seven-year battle with cancer. Kathryn was a mother, daughter, grandmother, and friend. Kathryn was the daughter of Ken and Midge Riggs. She went to school in Merced, California at Merced High School and later went on to study at California State University, Fresno where she received her Bachelor of Arts in Health Sciences. After graduating from Fresno State, Kathryn attended the University of San Francisco where she graduated with her Master of Arts Degree in Educational Psychology, with an emphasis on Marriage and Family. She was reunited with Frank ``Flip'' Hassett while attending Fresno State, as they had first met when they were much younger at the Skimmers swim meets. During their time in college, they dated until they were married in 1975, after Kathy began her career in Social Services with Merced County while Flip coached swimming and water polo. They had two children together in 1977 and 1979. In her free time, Kathy always enjoyed trying new things while spending time outdoors and traveling. She and her husband Flip especially loved rafting in Class 5 rivers all over the West and even in the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon. In addition to rafting, Kathy was skilled at snow and water skiing in Yosemite, Lake Tahoe, China Peak, and various other locations. Once she retired after 35 years with Merced County, Kathy continued her love for travel and exploration by partaking in several sea and river cruises all over the world, including a Disney Cruise in 2018 to Cabo San Lucas, when she was able to bring all of their children and grandchildren along for the trip. Kathy was an active member of various community organizations in Merced including the League of Women Votes, Leadership Merced--Class 14, United Way, the Hospital Assistance League, MCMC Foundation, Federal Emergency Management Team, Continuity of Care Committee, Specialized Management Area Response Team, Adult Services Committee, and CalWorks Advisory Committee. In addition to her commitment to Merced County, Kathy also worked in associations at the state level, including Child Protective Services, Adult Protective Services, and Human Services Directors. Her dedication to her community demonstrated her immense faith in humanity. Her warm spirit and loving charm was something she never failed to share with her children, family, and the community of the Central Valley and California as a whole. Kathy is survived by her loving husband Frank ``Flip'' Hassett; her children Heather Shepherd (Kelcey) and Frank Hassett (Amber); and siblings Karen Davey (Erwin), Curtis Riggs (Gaye), and Kraig Riggs (Robin). Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Kathryn Bonnie Hassett. Her service and contributions to the Central Valley and the State of California will be long remembered. I join her family and friends in celebrating Kathryn's life.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Michael Cavallero. Michael passed away to be with the Lord on November 2, 2021. He was a protector, family man, and helped so many in the community. Michael was an officer for the Fresno Police Department (FPD) for 32 years. He has served on the Fresno Police Credit Union Board of Directors. Michael wanted what was best for his officers and worked hard to do what was best for them, even after his retirement. Michael has helped with the Peace Officers Research Association of California (PORAC) for region II, and Fresno Police Officers Association (FPOA). Always involved, Michael always wanted to be helpful the best way possible. During his spare time, Michael enjoyed watching football; specifically his favorite team the San Francisco 49ers. For baseball, he enjoyed the San Francisco Giants and the Fresno Grizzlies. He loved being with his wife, Marsha, his siblings, and his two rescued cats from the Cat House, Max and Ruby. Michael is survived by his loving wife, Marsha; siblings Libby, Steve, Jim, Joan, and Tim; and many nieces and nephews. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Michael Joseph Cavallero. His service and contributions to the State of California and the San Joaquin Valley will always be celebrated.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Mr. Peter Aram Kezirian, who passed away at the age of 67. Although he will be remembered for his service in the military and his contributions to the community of Fresno, California, he will mostly be remembered for his devotion to his family and friends, who he was always there for, whenever they needed him. Peter graduated from Central High School and earned a bachelor's degree from California State University, Fresno. He was a hard worker and spent his entire life working for the Kezirian family businesses. First, he worked at Rolinda Farmers Store until 1997, when the store closed; and then he worked at managing the family farm, Peter dedicated 30 years of his life serving with the 144th Fighter Wing of the California Air National Guard. Achieving the rank of Master Sergeant, he retired with an honorable discharge in 2003. When he was not serving in the military, he continued his work with the family businesses, and loved watching his favorite sports teams play. He loved the San Francisco Giants and was a true fan of the Chicago Bears. When it came to NASCAR, he was a grand prix enthusiast. Peter is survived by his mother Alice Kezirian; brothers Vaughn Kezirian (Ann) and Robert Kezirian, sisters Terry Kezirian, Paula Cunningham (Brian), and Janice Kezirian (Dalton Bennett). He leaves behind his many nieces and nephews, family members and dear friends. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life and achievements of my friend, Peter Aram Kezirian. He was a respected member in the community, a loving son and brother and a veteran, who had a passion for life and the people of the Central Valley.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor KMPH Television on its 50th anniversary. On October 11, 2021, this broadcasting institution will have been providing the Central Valley with high quality television programming for 50 years. KMPH first took the air in 1971 and operated as an independent station. It was founded by the Pappas brothers, Mike, Pete, and Harry, whose initials make up the name of the station. Seven years later, it completely launched its news department and began airing The 10 O'clock News from Monday through Friday. It covered news from the Fresno and Visalia areas, as well as national stories. Since then, the station has expanded to most weekdays and for Saturdays, including Great Day which airs on multiple mornings a week. Through these programs, KMPH has served as a vital source of information for viewers all across the Central Valley of California. Even while news organizations across the United States have undergone serious challenges to their livelihoods, KMPH Television has remained a staple of Central Valley journalism. During this age of misinformation, KMPH has remained committed to ensuring the integrity of local news, something I and my constituents are very grateful for. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring KMPH Television on their 50th anniversary.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the Fresno County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) in honor of their 40th Anniversary. Since 1981, EDC has served the San Joaquin Valley by expanding economic growth in Fresno County. EDC effortlessly works to facilitate site selection for new companies within the county and assist in retention and expansion of local businesses. They market Fresno County as the premier location to develop core industries. Their staff hosts annual events and publish special reports such as their Real Estate Forecast and Investor's Meeting. With this, they have provided their investors, community leaders, and elected officials with crucial marketing intelligence, economic trends and networking opportunities. In 2018, EDC received the International Economic Development Council Gold Award for the New Employment Opportunities Expanded Subsidized Employment Program. This innovative program matches the needs of industries with individuals seeking jobs. EDC uses their website, social media outlets, and community outreach to provide their clients, investors, and community members with important news, resources, and information. They connect people with one another in the community and it enhances relationships with businesses. Continuously, they have promoted business investment and job creation by informing economic development policy, programs, and legislation to the cities and companies it serves. With the support of its Board of Directors and network of over a hundred investors, they use their creative license to bring about innovative ideas and collaborative opportunities to put forth Fresno County's economic evolution and growth. Their steady leadership has played a vital role in solidifying the economic strength of Fresno County and the future needs of the community. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Fresno County Economic Corporation for their commitment to improving the quality of life in the local community. It is both fitting and appropriate that we honor them on the celebration of their fortieth anniversary. I wish them all the best and continued success in the future.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the Fig Garden Woman's Club on the occasion of its centennial anniversary. Founded on March 9, 1921, the Fig Garden Women's Club is celebrating 100 years of friendship and contributions to our local community. The Fig Garden Woman's Club was founded in 1921, by, 13 young women who lived in the Fig Garden neighborhood in Fresno, California. The club was founded based on the shared values of friendship and finding ways to help improve their community. As interest, membership and work in the neighborhood grew, the club members began an effort to raise funds to build a clubhouse for their members to use and the community to enjoy. In 1926, the clubhouse was built with the help of friends and local developer J.C. Forkner and was established as a California Historical Landmark in 1987. The club is recognized under the California Federation of Woman's Clubs and the General Federation of Women's Clubs. Today, the club continues to thrive and has over 180 dedicated members. Since 1921, the Fig Garden Woman's Club has made contributions to local non-profits for victims of domestic violence, provided food for hard-working college students, and actively participates in many other local efforts. They also fundraise to provide scholarships for nursing students from Fresno City College, among other philanthropic efforts. Past efforts have included, providing transportation and meals to school children, donations to local nonprofit organizations, Christmas donations for needy families and neighborhood beautification projects. The Fig Garden Woman's Club members regularly sacrifice their time to help the Old Fig Garden neighborhood, in addition to their work within the City and County of Fresno. Annually, they donate their time to provide lifelong memories for Central Valley families by contributing to the beloved local tradition, Christmas Tree Lane. Members bake over 1,000 cookies to promote donations for Christmas Tree Lane, the two mile stretch of beautifully decorated homes in Old Fig Garden. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Fig Garden Woman's Club on their centennial anniversary. It is my honor to congratulate past and present members on this momentous accomplishment and thank them for the joy they have brought to the community.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Johnny Deniz. Johnny passed away on September 24, 2021. He was 90 years old. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean war, and after returning home, dedicated his life as a farmer in the Counties of Madera and Fresno. Johnny was born on July 24, 1931 to Manuel and Rosa Deniz. He was raised in Madera, California. Growing up, he went to Dixieland Grammar School and Madera High School. During school, he was elected President of the Madera F.F.A. Later, he served the Madera F.F.A. as Secretary of State and was awarded the American F.F.A. Degree. Johnny attended Fresno State University for a degree in engineering, but was soon drafted into the Army and served as Military Police Officer in Europe. After serving in the military, Johnny returned back home and he married his first wife, Wilma. He became a dedicated farmer in the Counties of Madera and Fresno, in which he grew multiple crops such as tomatoes, cotton, stone fruit, and table and wine grapes. Johnny was a successful businessman and established the Madera Pump Company, Almond Tree Hauler Inc., and Deniz Packing Inc. His work for the protection of Madera County's water supply left a legacy in which he dedicated 24 years of service as a Director, and 15 years as President, of the Madera Irrigation District. Johnny remarried in 2009 to his wife Dorie and continued the dedicated work for his community. In 2010, he was awarded Senior Farmer of the Year in the County of Madera for his dedication and hard work with the water district and for helping the needs of others. As one who was always civically engaged, he belonged to the Knights of Columbus as a 4th degree knight; the Madera County Farm Bureau; the Elks Club; and last but not least, the Veterans of Foreign Wars. His contributions and efforts on behalf of these organizations, made a lasting impact on the Valley. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Johnny Deniz. His service and contributions to the Central Valley and the State of California will be missed. I join his family and friends in celebrating Johnny's life.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the San Joaquin Memorial HighSchool on its 75th anniversary. On October 1, 2021, this phenomenal educational institution will have been serving the youth ofthe San Joaquin Valley for 75 years. San Joaquin Memorial was founded in 1945 by the late Most Reverend Philip G. Scher and was the first Diocesan Catholic High School with junior high students in the Monterey-Fresno Diocese. San Joaquin Memorial was named by individuals from the San Joaquin Valley who gave their lives in World War II. That same year of 1945, classes commenced after the construction was completed on the first three buildings, Shortly thereafter, the fourth and fifth buildings were constructed and ready to be filled with students. The first mass was held on October 3rd; the first rally was on November 9th and the first football game on November 19th. The first yearbook was released in May of 1946. The school has continuously expanded and more programs were added. Since then, the high school has become a premiere educational institution in the Valley. During the 1970s, Brother Phillip and Sister Ann Veronica became the first Vice-Principals of the high school. In 1981, Mary Alice Diener Library was built, and the science building was dedicated to the memory of Br. S. Albert FSC and Sr. Paola Harbeke CSC. Both individuals were the founding principals for San Joaquin Memorial. The school is home to state-of-the-art technology, strong community service involvement, and several programs outside of standard scholarly activity for their students to take advantage of. They won the 1991 Valley Football Championship over Garces in the Super Holy Bowl and continuing into the 2000s, they dominated in athletics with many talented young student athletes and a talented coaching staff. Because of these advancements, many athletes enjoyed new equipment and renovations by generous individuals who had a passion for the school. Over the years, San Joaquin Memorial has emphasized their commitment to faith, service, and community within a rigorous college-preparatory learning environment that effectively prepares their students for their university education and the work force. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring my Alma Mater, San Joaquin Memorial High School on its 75th anniversary. Its service and contributions to the State of California and the San Joaquin Valley will always be celebrated.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I thank my friend, Congressman Cartwright, for allowing me the opportunity to speak on the bipartisan infrastructure package. The fact of the matter is, this is long overdue. We have been living off the investments our parents and our grandparents made a generation or two ago. During most of the 20th century, America led the world in investment in its water, in its transportation, in its electrical grid, all the things that have made us the great country that we are. In recent decades, we have lagged behind. We now rank 13th in the world in terms of the amount of investment that we make in American people because investing in our water, in our transportation, in our roads and bridges, in our internet system, that is investing in people. That is investing in people who create jobs that make the economy better. As a result of the passage of this bipartisan infrastructure bill, for the first time in a long time, America will lead the world next year in investments in the future in our water, our transportation, our electrical grid, and all the things that are a part of this piece of legislation. We can't just take our eye off the ball. We have to continue these investments. In California, in the San Joaquin Valley that I represent, these investments are going to be billions of dollars in our water system. We have horrific droughts that we are experiencing right now. With climate change and the other efforts in this legislation to deal with the impacts of climate change, we need to ensure that we have a sustainable water supply in California for our farms and farm communities, as well as ensuring that we have clean drinking water for rural areas that don't have it today. This legislation does just that. This legislation also takes an opportunity to look at the other areas that we need to do in the next piece of legislation: childcare for millions of women who want to get back to work; and providing efforts to improve our healthcare system, to fully fund the Affordable Care Act, a promise we made 11 years ago. My district had 25 percent uninsured. Eleven years later, only 10 percent of my district is uninsured. These are the kind of investments we need to make in people. I thank my colleagues for supporting this effort. Yesterday was a wonderful afternoon with the President, with my colleagues, Republicans and Democrats alike, to really celebrate the fact that we are beginning to do what the American people sent us to do, which is get the job done and invest in our country.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Merced College's Los Banos Campus on its 50th anniversary. This phenomenal educational institution has been providing the students of Los Banos and the Central Valley with a high-quality educational institution for 50 years. In 1971, Merced College President Lowell Barker alongside founding Dean Ted McVey decided to begin providing full-time education services to student in a rented facility. From there, the campus eventually moved to a plot of 10 acres of land donated by resident Richard Menezes in 1982. They began the process of setting up their new permanent campus after a land donation from Larry and Georgeann Anderson in 2002. Finally, in 2007, the current Los Banos Campus opened its doors for its students, and has continued to provide a wide range of courses to assist students in their path towards a degree or transfer. The Los Banos Campus also provides a great selection of career technical education courses that, in as little as six months, can prepare students to enter directly into the workforce. In addition to this, the campus continues to expand its use and implementation of various technological resources for its students to ensure they are set up for success. For the students of Los Banos, this educational institution serves a vital role in providing robust opportunities, while ensuring that these individuals can have access to these experiences right in their own hometown, thus reducing significant barriers to their success. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Merced College's Los Banos Campus on its 50th anniversary. Its service and contributions to the State of California and the San Joaquin Valley will always be celebrated.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, due to a medical issue, I missed votes on the passage of H.R. 4481, the Small Business 7(a) Loan Agent Transparency Act, H.R. 4531, the 7(a) Loan Agent Oversight Act, and H.R. 4515, the Small Business Development Center Cyber Training Act of 2021. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 351, Roll Call No. 352, and Roll Call No. 353.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Aristides de Sousa Mendes, a Portuguese diplomat and hero who singlehandedly saved tens of thousands of lives of people fleeing the Nazi persecution in 1940. On October 19, 2021, Sousa Mendes was laid to rest in the National Pantheon in Lisbon, Portugal. He was proudly Portuguese and had a deep love of country, family, and the arts. He served as the Portuguese consulate general in Bordeaux, France, in 1940. When Hitler launched his invasion of France on May 10, 1940, millions of people suddenly found themselves in imminent danger from Nazi attack. Thousands sought visas in the consulate in Bordeaux trying to escape. In June of 1940, Sousa Mendes issued an estimated 30,000 visas, including to roughly 10,000 Jews fleeing for their lives with their families, despite the Salazar regime having forbidden their diplomats in Portugal from issuing such visas to refugees. The Israeli historian Yehuda Bauer cited Sousa Mendes' actions as perhaps the largest rescue action by a single individual during the Holocaust. As a punishment for disobeying the mandates of his country's Salazar regime, Sousa Mendes was stripped of his job, denied a pension, and pushed into poverty. His home was repossessed, and he suffered two strokes before passing away in 1954. ``I may have erred,'' he wrote, ``but if so, I did it unintentionally, having followed the voice of my conscience, which . . . never failed to guide me in the fulfillment of my duties, in full awareness of my responsibilities.'' After years without recognition for his heroism, I commend the decision to lay Sousa Mendes to rest in the National Pantheon, celebrating his courage. Please join me in honoring Aristides de Sousa Mendes.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to speak in support of the Private First Class Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Program Act. I want to thank my colleague, Representative Zeldin, for his good work and his efforts on behalf of veterans who serve our country with great honor. Roughly 15 million adults in the United States suffer from post- traumatic stress disorder, otherwise known as PTSD. The Department of Veterans Affairs indicates that between 15 and 30 percent of Vietnam veterans have had post-traumatic stress disorder in their lifetime; about 12 percent of Desert Storm veterans have had post-traumatic stress disorder; and between 11 and 20 percent of those who served in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom now also, sadly, have been subject to post-traumatic stress disorder in a given year. These statistics are staggering, and, sadly, because of PTSD, many veterans have taken their lives. Our servicemen and -women sacrifice so much to protect our freedom, and we must do all we can to help them recover and prevent these tragic losses. In 2013 the State of New York, under the leadership of Representative Zeldin and others, established the Dwyer program to support veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury, otherwise referred to as TBI, by connecting veterans with other veterans who suffer through similar struggles. Over the years, the program has created a safe, confidential, and educational network for thousands of veterans to support each other on their transition to post-service life; and this is so important. The Veterans Administration has found that one key part to help our veterans is to ensure that they feel connected to their communities and know that they are not alone in their struggles that they face and that they can come back and become a contributing member to their community as they were when they left. Expanding the Dwyer program nationwide, therefore, is crucial to save lives and help our veterans successfully transition to civilian life when they come home. The San Joaquin Valley of California, which I am honored to represent, is home to nearly 30,000 veterans. Throughout my time in Congress, veterans and their families have been one of my top priorities. I have spent 17 years working side by side with the Veterans Administration assisting veterans with PTSD, creating a veterans' home, expanding veterans' healthcare, and providing a whole host of efforts that deal with post-traumatic stress disorder and pending claims for service-connected benefits. When we support them, we also must never forget about their families because it is both them and their families. Next month on November 11 we are going to celebrate Veterans Day, and I can't think of a better thing that we can all do than to work on this legislation successfully and say thank you to those who have served our Nation. I am a proud cosponsor of this bipartisan legislation to provide our veterans with the support, healthcare, and treatment they have earned and, therefore, that they deserve. This nationwide expansion is long overdue. I want to congratulate and thank my colleagues for their efforts. We can do more, and we must do more. Every veteran counts on us to do our part because they have done theirs.

Mr. COSTA. I commend the gentleman and my colleagues on this effort. It is very important, and it is the right thing to do.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Sadly, domestic violence has plagued our families and communities in the Nation for far too long. Each year, one in three women and one in four men in the United States experience domestic violence. My hometown of Fresno has, sadly, one of the highest rates in California of verified domestic violence calls to the police department. We cannot ignore these staggering statistics, and we must do more to address this crisis. This year, Congress passed the Violence Against Women Act and the Victims of Crime Act, or VOCA, fix, to prevent violence and expand victim services to our communities. These bills would help organizations working tirelessly to uplift survivors, including the Marjaree Mason Center, the Centro La Familia, and the Valley Crisis Center in my district. This week, the House also will be voting on the Family Violence Prevention and Services Improvement Act of 2021, of which I am a cosponsor. This bill aims to improve services for victims of domestic, dating, and family violence, and we need to invest more. I urge my colleagues to join me in advancing these efforts to end domestic violence. As chair and cofounder of the Congressional Crime Survivors and Justice Caucus, it ought to be our priority to benefit those survivors and provide them the resources they deserve.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, the time is now to make historic investments in families, workers, and communities across the country. Everyone, no matter who they are or where they live, deserves access to modern, dependable infrastructure to maintain the quality of life for Americans in the 21st century. That is why we must pass the President's bipartisan infrastructure package tomorrow. We are living off the investments our grandparents and parents made generations ago. In many communities, that is no longer sustainable. In my home State of California, we are suffering from the devastating effects of climate change, historical fires, and droughts. Farmers in the San Joaquin Valley, which I represent, also need an infrastructure that reflects their ability to put food on America's dinner table every night. The devastating dry conditions and the lack of water have led many of them to fallow their fields, hundreds and thousands of acres of productive farmland. It is as simple as this: Without food from our farmers, Americans don't eat. It is a national security issue. Therefore, we must fix our broken water infrastructure system. The only way to ensure farmers have the water they need to feed our Nation is to build and improve more conveyance and storage facilities. This infrastructure package will help that, as well as efforts that we are pursuing under the reconciliation package. We need to capture and improve and store water for times such as now. In addition to that, we need to make other critical investments in rural and underserved areas by expanding broadband. Broadband access today is just like rural electrification was in the 1930s. No American should be without broadband. We also learned from the COVID-19 crisis that access to quality healthcare is critical. It is critical that we have ample physicians and nurses. We can make more protective equipment, but we can't make more doctors and nurses. Therefore, we have a serious shortage of healthcare professionals, and that is why a part of this effort to build back America better is to provide medical schools and underserved areas improved access to our broadband. That is critical. We must do that. In addition, investing in public transportation for our economy is just as essential. The United States is trailing other nations when it comes to investments in modern infrastructure and transportation like high-speed rail. It is time that we bring our system into the 21st century. Finishing California's high-speed rail efforts, along with four other corridors in the country, will help our climate, improve traffic gridlock, and reduce emissions that pollute the air. Climate change is an important part of this essential package of investing in our infrastructure. We know, with the results of droughts, fires, floods, and hurricanes, that the climate is changing, and we need to provide tools to address that. Without critical investments in this infrastructure package that we will vote on tomorrow, our Nation will suffer. Making life better for our constituents is my top priority and should be the priority of Congresspeople throughout the country. It requires us to focus on the health and development of our communities, and the economy needs us to support this effort. Madam Speaker, may I inquire as to how much time I have remaining.

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, as we talk about building back better, let me also note that we must pass a continuing resolution to ensure that government stays operating. Shutting down the government is not an option, and we should act upon this in the next 24 hours to whatever extended date is agreed as well as lifting the debt ceiling. In the 17 years I have been here, I have never, under Republican and Democratic administrations alike, voted to shut down government. That is irresponsible, and therefore, we must also lift the debt ceiling. This is, in fact, to pay bills that Congress in the previous administration has already created, and we don't want to be deadbeats. The impacts on our economy would be devastating in terms of even contemplating shutting down government or not lifting the debt ceiling. Honoring Sherwood Boehlert

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I was saddened to learn of our colleague Congressman Sherry Boehlert's passing. I served with him during his last term, as he was chair of the Science, Space, and Technology Committee. Sherry was terrific. Sherry's focus on making sure that Americans address the needs of science in a changing world was always at the forefront as chairman of the committee. I went with Sherry on an incredible trip to Antarctica to explore the impacts of climate change. Beyond his contributions to the Congress and to the people of our country, Sherry was an avid baseball fan. Sherry loved representing Cooperstown and had the best baseball collection I have ever seen. God bless you, Sherry, and your family.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Richard ``Rick'' Cosyns. Rick passed away on September 7, 2021 on a hunting trip, doing what he loved. Rick was a husband, father, son, and friend. Rick was the son of Albert and Margaret Cosyns. He grew up on a family farm in Madera, California where he attended St. Joachim's school and Madera High School. In his youth, he was involved in various 4-H projects and loved all kinds of physical activity including football, and continued to enjoy skiing, competitive shooting, traveling, and hunting as much as he could throughout his life. For college, Rick studied at California State University, Fresno where he received a degree in Plant Science. After graduating from Fresno State, he became very involved in the Plant Science industry and helped run his family farm with his brother, Allen. Rick has been a general partner in Cosyns Farms since 1977 and has had involvement in pistachios, alfalfa, almonds, and 12 varieties of wine grapes. He also operated a honeybee pollination service and consulted on farm management services. In his spare time, he enjoyed spending time with his beloved wife Lynne and many friends. He enjoyed the outdoors and spending time in the orchards, vineyards and foothill ranch. He was the life of the party at any event he attended. Rick and his adored family and friends spent much of their time outdoors while camping, hunting, and fishing, but he also found great enjoyment in the small comforts of life such as a good glass of wine. Not only was Rick a dedicated family man and husband for over 30 years, but he was always committed to the community of the Central Valley. He served as a director on the Madera Irrigation District, as a member of the Madera Planning Commission, as well as various other community organizations. In addition to his civil contributions, he also served as a supportive parish member of St. Joaquim's Catholic Church in Madera. Annually, Rick would help me at the fair, and he always made time to help his community. Rick is survived by his wife Lynne; son Will; daughter Maggie; his sister Linda, and her husband Carlos Reynoso; his brother Allen, and his wife Susan Cosyns, and his large extended family. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Richard ``Rick'' Cosyns. His service and contributions to the Central Valley and the State of California will be missed. I join his family and friends in celebrating Rick's life.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of John Robert Lawson. John passed away peacefully and surrounded by his friends and family on August 24, 2021. John was a father, son, grandfather, and friend. John was the son of Jess and Jane (Lawson) Smith. He went to school in Fresno, California at Heaton Elementary, St. Joseph Military Academy, and Fresno High School. He came from humble beginnings and left his home at 13 years old. John worked throughout school by mowing lawns, delivering newspapers like the San Francisco Chronicle and Los Angeles Times, and worked at a gas station After high school, John enlisted in the Army, and after returning from his discharge, he began growing his trucking company known as Lawson Rock & Oil. In order to start his business, he saved 30 percent of everything he made so that he could purchase a truck. From there, he was able to grow his company and it is now made up of hundreds of trucks and employees. His story is the perfect example of a self-made businessman and an inspiration to all who hear it. As a family man and business owner, John never failed to give back to his community. John would speak on the importance of a high school diploma. He received his 60 years later and would tell high school students to always take advantage of the opportunities around them. His efforts included serving on the California Transportation Commission, appointed by Gov. Gray Davis. He also served on the Fresno County Planning Commission. In addition to these contributions, John helped sponsor The Lawson Beneto Classic golf tournament that focused on benefitting children with Autism. Along with many other charitable community donations, he helped fundraiser for Terry's House at Community Regional Medical Center. In his free time, John enjoyed racing, riding motorcycles, and collecting and restoring hot rods. He enjoyed restoring hot rods and restoring cars so much, he would share that passion with his friends. His love for cars took him all over the United States and Canada by attending different car shows. He collaborated with driver, Billy Boat in the 1990's and they set records for main event victories like the 1997 Chili Bowl nationals. Throughout this time, he had one of the largest collections of 1932 Fords. John was survived by his loving wife Gina Lawson; his son JR and wife Suzanne, son Jonathan and wife Ashley, son Christopher Parrino; and daughter Patty Lawson. He had many grandchildren, his sister Terri Rea, and husband Scott, and friends missing him. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of John Robert Lawson. His service and contributions to the Central Valley and the State of California will be missed. I join his family and friends in celebrating John's life.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Randy Paragary. Randy passed away surrounded by his loving family on August 14, 2021 after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer. Randy was a husband, father, son, and friend to many. After graduating from C.K. McClatchy High School, he attended California State University, Sacramento and the McGeorge School of Law. Randy received his degree in law, but he decided to put his dedication into his career to entrepreneurship. The risk paid off. At the young age of 23, he opened his first bar called the ParaPow Palace in 1969. He started his growth with food, nightlife, and restaurants. The Paragary Restaurant Group owned and operated establishments in Sacramento, California such as Centro Cocina Mexicana, R15, Cafe Bernardo, and Paragary's Midtown. One of his recent joys was the Fort Sutter Hotel in 2020. Randy was a family man who dearly loved his children Lisa and Sam, but he was also a hardworking businessman. He worked alongside his wonderful wife, Stacy for nearly the entire 28 years they were married. His personality was witty yet collected. He never failed to make himself and others laugh in social settings. A mentor to many, his leadership, decision-making skills, and creative mind was admired by many. A family man, he and his now 93-year-old mother and daughter would have Sunday brunch together every week up until his passing. His delightful personality was part of what made him so successful in life, as he was always curious about others, and jumped at any opportunity to get to know a new guest at his restaurant. His business ventures were inspiring to the entire community of Sacramento, and he truly left a mark on the restaurant scene there. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Randy Paragary. His service and contributions to the State of California will not be forgotten and he will be missed. I join his family and friends in celebrating Randy's life.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Larry Dean Morse II of Merced, California. Mr. Morse passed away on September 14th and lived a life of public service through his work as the 30th District Attorney of Merced County. Mr. Morse was born on March 20, 1957 to Larry Morse, Sr. and Saranne Morse and grew up in Lancaster, California. After graduating high school, Mr. Morse attended the University of Arkansas where he majored in journalism and wrote for the school paper, which in 1979 landed him a job as a reporter for the Arkansas Democrat. While in Little Rock, Mr. Morse met Cindy Robertson, who he would later go on to marry. In 1981, Mr. Morse moved to Washington, D.C. to work as a Press Secretary and Legislative Aide to Congressman Bob Whittaker, beginning his career in politics and public service. After a couple of years in Washington, Mr. Morse decided to follow in his father's footsteps and moved to Sacramento to attend the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law, which he attended with his wife Cindy. While in law school, he continued his public service, working as the Communications Director for the Senate Democratic Caucus and after earning his J.D., as Legislative Director for State senator Milton Marks. Mr. Morse began his work as a trial attorney in 1993 when he moved to Merced to work as a member of the Merced County District Attorney's office, where he quickly rose through the ranks and in 1998 was appointed as the Chief Deputy District Attorney. In 2006, Mr. Morse was elected as the Merced County District attorney. Mr. Morse's time as District Attorney was his biggest source of professional pride. During his tenure, he personally prosecuted the most cases out of his counterparts in many counties, including almost 20 murder cases. Additionally, he started the Violence Interruption and Prevention and Emergency Response (VIPER) program to marshal law enforcement intelligence resources to provide better information to officers on patrols and in investigations. After serving as the Merced County DA, Mr. Morse continued his public service as the Legislative Director for the California District Attorneys Association. As one who was always civically engaged, Mr. Morse was a member of Merced Elks Lodge 1240, Los Banos Sportsman's Association, E Clampus Vitus, and founding member of the Merced Boys and Girls Club. Most notably, he played a vital role on the committee that brought a University of California campus to Merced. Mr. Morse loved spending time with his family and was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He enjoyed traveling with his wife of 35 years Cindy and sons Dylan, Ethan, and Ryan, instilling ``The Golden Rule'' and a love of reading music. After Ethan's tragic death, he was comforted having his granddaughter Ava along with family and friends over to his house, which was a sanctuary to him and his family. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring a skilled prosecutor, public servant, family man, and leader whose contributions to the greater Merced community and State of California will be remembered for generations. It is both fitting and appropriate that we honor him as family, friends, and community leaders gather to celebrate the life of a man who made Merced County a better place.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Thaj Khu Moua Lia. Moua Lia passed away on August 14, 2021. Moua Lia was a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather as well as an inspiration for the entire Hmong community. Moua Lia was born in Phac Lac (Nong Het), Xieng Khouang Province, Kingdom of Laos. Throughout his life, he fought to bring more education to the mountains of Laos, leading him to become the first Superintendent of Schools in Xieng Khouang Province. After studying pedagogy, student testing and placement, special education, and ethnic group school systems in France and Thailand, Moua Lia returned to Laos and began rehabilitating Xieng Khouang Province by reforming the school systems in remote areas that had been ravaged by war. During this time, he helped establish the first institution for Hmong teachers called Samthong College. His commitment to improving the education system for ethnic minorities in Laos took him all over the world, specifically to Singapore and the United States, where he collected ideas and strategies for how to better approach education in the regions he served. When Laos fell to communist army forces in 1975, Moua Lia and his family received asylum in France for 15 years. They later moved to Merced, California, where he worked as the Community Outreach Specialist in the local school district, and retired in 2005, still actively supporting the community through various projects. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Thaj Khu Moua Lia. His service and contributions to the Hmong community in the Central Valley and beyond will be missed. I join his friends, loved ones, and community in celebrating Moua Lia's life.