Jeff Denham

Mr. DENHAM

Mr. DENHAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge Stephen Lawson, Team Leader at the Modesto Vet Center, for his nine years of outstanding service to our nation's heroes and the Modesto community. Stephen has announced that he will be retiring on April 29, 2016. In 1969, Stephen enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served as a Corpsman. After being honorably discharged in 1973 he found his home in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley, in Merced California. After his service in the military, Stephen's first job was at the Merced College Veterans Office where he found a position working with veterans returning home and was in charge of the Outreach and Peer counseling. In this capacity, Stephen provided outstanding service to many veterans who were in need of his help and guidance. In 1984, Stephen graduated from Fresno State University with a Master's Degree in Rehabilitation Psychology. He found a passion in helping his fellow veterans and furthered his career by working as a Rehabilitation Counselor at a large counseling firm. Eventually, Stephen started Lawson Professional Counseling Corp. Under his leadership, the company grew to 50 employees and 10 offices throughout the Central Valley. On November 19, 2007, Stephen began at the Modesto Vet Center and was appointed Team Leader. Stephen always aimed to assure that veterans received the highest standard of care. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring Stephen Lawson for his many years of service and outstanding contributions to the veteran community as well as our country.

Mr. DENHAM

Mr. DENHAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and honor the life of a beloved leader in the Merced community, Bert Stephen Crane. Bert passed away at the age of 84 on Sunday, March 13, 2016, surrounded by his loving family. On November 29, 1931, Bert was born to fourth-generation California farmers and ranchers. Raised on a cattle ranch, he was up before the Sun and out until it came down. During his youth, Bert achieved the rank of Eagle Scout as a member of Boy Scout troop 101. At Merced High School, Bert was the drum major in band and played basketball. After high school, Bert studied at Stanford University and obtained his bachelor of science degree in agricultural economics from UC-Davis. During his college years, Bert met Nancy Magnuson, whom he fell in love with and later married in 1957. They remained married for over 58 years and raised three children who would follow the family tradition of ranching and farming. Bert spent most of his life farming walnuts, which he ventured into in the early 1970s after his early career in the beef industry. Bert went on to own and operate a successful walnut-processing plant. Bert lived an impressive and inspirational life. He was known to have ridden horses with Ronald Reagan, was extremely involved in the community, and had a passion for health care. He led fundraising events for Mercy Hospital and was instrumental in the development of the Mercy Cancer Center. Bert served on the Merced County Planning Commission for 28 years. His service to his community, agriculture, and research is one of great respect and integrity. Bert valued and treasured the time he was able to spend with his family above all else. He is survived by his loving wife, Nancy, and his three children and seven grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring the life of Bert Stephen Crane for his unwavering leadership and recognizing his accomplishments and outstanding contributions to the community. God bless him always. Honoring James ``Jim'' West, a Beloved Leader in the Modesto Community

Mr. DENHAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and honor the life of a beloved leader in the Modesto community, James ``Jim'' West, who died at the age of 81 on Sunday, March 13, 2016, surrounded by his loving family. Jim was born on January 22, 1935, to Donald and Ruby West. He grew up in the heart of the Central Valley, Modesto, California, and graduated from Modesto High School in 1953. Jim furthered his education at Menlo College before attending Kansas State University, where he obtained his bachelor's degree in feed technology. In 1958, Jim joined the thriving and successful company his grandfather had started in 1909, the J.S. West Milling Company. The family-owned business is known for their production of eggs, feed, and propane. Through years of hard work and dedication, Jim became shareholder, secretary, and vice president of the J.S. West Milling Company board. Jim's reputation as an honest businessman helped build the J.S. West Milling Company's successful and trustworthy name. Jim was also dedicated to improving the community he lived in. He was active in several industry and civic groups, most notably as president of the Pacific Egg and Poultry Association in 1993 and chairman of the American Egg Board in 1997. He was an active member of the Western Poultry Scholarship and Research Foundation, Memorial Hospital Foundation, Delta Blood Bank, and Modesto Junior College Foundation. He was also a proud member of the Modesto Rotary since 1969 and later served as president. Jim had a genuine love for the people and the community he worked tirelessly to help. He was known for his kindness, generosity, and strong family values. Succeeding Jim are his wife of 44 years, Jessie West, their two sons, and three daughters. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring and recognizing the life of Jim West for his unwavering leadership, many accomplishments, and contributions to the community. God bless him always.

Mr. DENHAM

Mr. DENHAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and honor the life of a beloved leader in the Merced Community, Bert Stephen Crane. Bert passed away at the age of 84 on Sunday, March 13, 2016 surrounded by his loving family. On November 29, 1931, Bert was born to fourth generation California farmers and ranchers. Raised on a cattle ranch, he was up before the sun and out until it came down. During his youth, Bert achieved the rank of Eagle Scout as a member of Boy Scout troop Number 101. At Merced High School, Bert was the drum major in band and played basketball. After high school Bert studied at Stanford University and obtained his Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Economics from U.C. Davis. During his college years Bert met Nancy Magnuson who he fell in love with and later married in 1957. They remained married for over 58 years and raised three children who would follow the family tradition of ranching and farming. Bert spent most of his life farming walnuts which he ventured into in the early 1970's after his early career in the beef industry. Bert went on to own and operate a successful walnut processing plant. Bert lived an impressive and inspirational life. He was known to have ridden horses with Ronald Reagan, was extremely involved in the community, and had a passion for healthcare. He led fundraising events for Mercy Hospital and was instrumental in the development of the Mercy Cancer Center. Bert served on the Merced County Planning Commission for 28 years. His service to his community, agriculture and research is one of great respect and integrity. Bert valued and treasured the time he was able to spend with his family above all else. He is survived by his loving wife Nancy, and their three children, Bert A. Crane, Jr., Mary Crane Couchman, and Karen Crane-McNab and seven grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring the life of Bert Stephen Crane for his unwavering leadership, and recognizing his accomplishments and outstanding contributions to the community. God bless him always.

Mr. DENHAM

Mr. DENHAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and honor Jim Greer, Veteran Service Officer of Stanislaus County Veterans Services Office, on his retirement and to thank him for his dedicated service to our Nations heroes. After serving 30 years, Jim retired as a Command Master Chief Petty Officer in the Navy. Following his service, he applied for a Veterans Services Representative position in Stanislaus County, and was hired in April of 1993. At first, the Veterans Services Office was serving about 50 to 60 veterans a month. Within six months of Jim's service, the office was seeing nearly 500 veterans a month. As a Veterans Service Officer, Jim gladly accepted tremendous responsibilities including: visiting the local Veterans Service Organizations, training work study students to become Veterans Representatives, and personally assisting as many veterans as he could. Jim has played a vital role in acquiring a Veterans Center and a VA Community Base Outpatient Clinic in Modesto, California, improving assistance to veterans in the area. As a member of the California Association of County Veterans Services Officers, Jim has been asked to speak at various conferences and events to raise awareness on administrative issues in order to benefit local veterans. An active member of my Veterans Advisory Committee, Jim plays an essential role to reach out to the Veterans population with the most current information regarding bills, issues, and needs. Jim has changed the lives of thousands of veterans through his dedication and commitment over the last 23 years. He lives by the motto, ``if Veterans don't help each other, no one else will'' and he has truly lived up to that commitment. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring and recognizing my friend for his unwavering leadership, many accomplishments, and contributions on behalf of the veteran community and his service to the United States of America.

Mr. DENHAM

Mr. DENHAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and honor Dr. Joseph F. Sheley, President of the California State University, Stanislaus, to thank him for his leadership and dedication to the academic advancement of the Central Valley. President Sheley announced he will be retiring on July 1, 2016. On June 11, 2012, Dr. Joseph Sheley joined California State University, Stanislaus, as the interim president. Less than a year later, on May 22, 2013, he was appointed president of the University by the California State University Board of Trustees. Dr. Sheley graduated from Sacramento State College in 1969, and earned his bachelor's degree in social sciences. In 1971, Dr. Sheley completed his Master's in sociology. He later attained his Doctorate in sociology from the University of Massachusetts in 1975. In the fall of 1975, Dr. Sheley began working at Tulane University in New Orleans as part of the sociology faculty. He continued his career at Tulane University for the 21 years thereafter. During those 21 years, between 1985 and 1991, Dr. Sheley served as the chair of Tulane's Department of Sociology. Dr. Sheley returned to Sacramento State in 1996, and served as the Dean of the College of Social Sciences and Interdisciplinary Studies. In 2005, Dr. Sheley became the Executive Vice President at California State University, Sacramento, and served as the university's Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs from 2006 to 2012. He was recognized for his commitment and dedication to his alma mater and to the collegiate system by being awarded the Sacramento State's Lifetime Achievement Award. Dr. Sheley is a visionary leader who worked diligently to build strong relationships between the university and the Central Valley. President Sheley has led California State University, Stanislaus, to extraordinary accomplishments including recognition by Money magazine as the nation's top public university for assisting students in exceeding expectations. In addition, National Public Radio ranked California State University, Stanislaus, as the fifth school in the nation to enhance the upward mobility of its students. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring and commending Dr. Joseph F. Sheley, President of the California State University, Stanislaus, for his numerous years of unwavering leadership, many accomplishments, and selfless service to the higher education of our community.

Mr. DENHAM

Mr. DENHAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and honor the life of a personal friend, Major William Amos Usher. Bill passed away at the age of 86 on Sunday in Paducah, Kentucky. From 1952 to 1962, Bill served as a fighter pilot in France and Germany for the United States Air Force and Air Force Reserves. Bill proudly served in the 417th tactical fighter squadron and was awarded the Commendation Medal for his outstanding work with the United States military. In 1962, he retired and returned home to Paducah to help with the family trucking company, Usher Transport. Bill became the manager of the company and eventually the owner for many years. Bill established the local Christmas Cop organization, was honored as a Kentucky Colonel and a Duke of Paducah for all of his contributions. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring the life and legacy of Major William Amos ``Bill'' Usher for his many outstanding contributions to the community as well as his service to our country. God bless him always.

Mr. DENHAM

Mr. DENHAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and honor the birthday of Mr. Ralph Verschoor, who will be ninety-five years old on February 20, 2016. In 1926, Ralph was born in Hot Springs, Arkansas. In 1930, he moved to Colorado with his family. His father then decided to move away from the cold and snowy Colorado area and ventured to Ceres, California. On May 3, 1944, Ralph's life was forever changed when he was drafted into the U.S. Army where he served in the 503rd Airborne. He completed 16 weeks of basic training at Fort Bragg in North Carolina before he was transferred to Fort Benning, Georgia where he underwent parachute training. Despite being injured on his first jump he continued with the training and successfully received his wings. Before long, Ralph was sent to Fort Ord and then San Francisco, where he boarded a ship on a 31 day voyage to New Guinea. After departing New Guinea, Ralph travelled to the Philippines. There, in March 1946 on the Beach of Negros Island, he experienced combat for the first time. Ralph spent his time as a rifleman, but due to unfortunate circumstances, his weapon malfunctioned. He was stuck with this weapon until the 1st Scout was wounded and they were able to trade weapons. At this point Ralph became 1st Scout and spent six weeks leading his troops into the jungle. Requested by his Captain to become a combat medic, Ralph was tasked with giving first aid to his wounded comrades. He witnessed many traumatizing events in his line of duty that he will never forget. The war ended in the summer of 1945. Ralph, as a combat medic, was asked to travel to Hiroshima, Japan to study radiation burns. After a six month stay, he was sent to Sendai, Japan to join a medical team aiding in the treatment of those exposed to communicable diseases. Upon returning from the war in 1946, Ralph made his way back home to California, settling in Escalon, where he has resided for the last 70 years. Ralph was elected to the Escalon City Council in 1957, and later served as Mayor. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring Ralph Verschoor for his 95th birthday and outstanding contributions to the community of Escalon as well as our country.

Mr. DENHAM

Mr. DENHAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and honor the life of a very good and personal friend, Roger Schrimp, who died unexpectedly on Wednesday, February 10, 2016. Roger and his wife Delsie live in Oakdale, California, in my district. Roger has been a shareholder and a partner in the firm Damrell, Nelson, Schrimp, Pallios, Pacher, & Silva. Roger is most known for being very passionate, not only about his practice, but in addressing many different areas within our community. Within his practice, he addressed cases before the U.S. Supreme Court, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, U.S. District Court, and the U.S. Tax Court of Claims. In addition, he has gone before several State and local agencies. Roger was also an active leader in many different local, State, and national organizations. Since 1976, he was a member of the elite group out of Santa Barbara, California, the Rancheros Visitadores. He was appointed in 1996 by Governor Wilson. Roger served a 6-year term on the Board of Governors of the California Community Colleges. He also served on the Executive Board of the California State Parks Foundation. Ever since joining the Boy Scouts of America in 1948, Roger has been dedicated to the organization throughout the years. The Eagle Scout has held a variety of voluntary positions within the group, including serving on the National Executive Board. From 2007 to 2015, Roger was named one of the top attorneys in Northern California by the Northern California Super Lawyers Magazine. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring and recognizing my good friend, Roger Schrimp, who will be missed by many. God bless him always.

Mr. DENHAM

Mr. DENHAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and honor Pastor Michael Moore for his many years of service to the Manteca community. After 29 years at Crossroads Grace Community Church, Pastor Mike is retiring from his role as senior leader. Almost 50 years ago, Pastor Mike married the love of his life, Grace, and together they started a church where everyone could feel welcome. In 1987, Crossroads Grace Community began with a Bible study group led by Pastor Mike made up of 17 members. The church grew to encompass Pastor Mike's and Grace's vision of a casual atmosphere, practical and relevant teachings, with contemporary worship. Pastor Mike led the congregation in working with local churches to establish the Hope Family Shelter and provide housing to homeless families. The church also established a mobile medical clinic to provide free medical service for those in need and has sent teams to respond to global disasters such as Hurricane Katrina, the tsunami in Asia, and the Oklahoma tornadoes. The church has also sent missionaries to many corners of the globe. Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing Pastor Michael Moore and his unwavering leadership in our community and many accomplishments around the globe.

Mr. DENHAM

Mr. DENHAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Bob and Marie Gallo, who will be awarded the Robert J. Cardoza Citizen of the Year--Lifetime Achievement Award from the Modesto Chamber of Commerce, for their unwavering commitment to their community. Bob Gallo was born in Modesto, California to Julio and Aileen Gallo. He spent his early years on their family ranch and graduated from Modesto High School. He continued his education at Oregon State University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business and Technology in 1956. Bob served in the United States Navy for two years aboard the USS Yorktown. Marie also was born in Modesto, California to former Superior Court Judge Frank C. and Mae Damrell. Graduating a year after Bob at Modesto High School, Marie attended Notre Dame de Namur University in Belmont where she received a Bachelor of Arts Degree and her elementary teaching credentials. Following her graduation, she came back to California where she started teaching at Alamo Elementary School in San Francisco. As if it were written in the stars, Marie returned to Modesto and married the love of her life, Bob. Both Bob & Marie have a strong belief in improving the quality of life for the people in their community. Their contributions of time and money are well documented in the numerous organizations they are involved in. Bob Gallo has been active in the United Way, the Grand Jury, Community Action Commission, King-Kennedy Center, Rotary International, Human Rights Commission, Sierra Club, Audubon Society, Nature Conservancy, and on the Board of Trustees of the University of California, Merced. In addition, he has worked to expand the Modesto Union Gospel Mission and received an award from The Salvation Army for his leadership in raising monetary funds. He has served on the board of American Farmland Trust and was the driving force behind the San Joaquin National Wildlife Refuge. Currently, Bob is Co-Chairman of the Board of E. & J. Gallo Winery. Not to be outdone by her husband, Marie has been a part of the Modesto Symphony Orchestra and Guild, where she established the Picnic at the POPS concert, which has been held annually on the winery grounds since 1995. She is also a founder of the Catholic Honorary Social Service Guild, an honorary member of the Modesto Rotary Club and of the Women's Auxiliary, and is a founding board member of Central Catholic High School. She held a prominent role in bringing the Sisters of the Cross to Modesto from Mexico and also served as a member of the ``Christmas Angels'' bell ringing team for the Salvation Army for numerous years. Marie played a vital role in the construction of the Gallo Center for the Arts with the support of her husband and family. Bob and Marie, who were married in the summer of 1958, will celebrate their 58th anniversary in July. Together, they raised 8 children and were blessed with twenty-two grandchildren; to which they have passed along the importance of family church and commitment to the community. Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating Bob and Marie Gallo for their recognition from the Modesto Chamber of Commerce with the Robert J. Cardoza Citizen of the Year--Lifetime Achievement Award. Their years of dedicated service to the community are to be commended.

Mr. DENHAM

Mr. DENHAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise to discuss the contributions the WASPs have made to our great country. These are the Women Airforce Service Pilots, and they represent an elite group of female pilots. They flew combat missions during World War II. These women displayed courage, valor, and a willingness to serve, and they made invaluable contributions to our Nation's efforts to battle on the world stage. There were fewer than 1,100 WASPs, and 38 of them died during their service. But because the unit was created in 1942, the WASP group was never granted full military status. In 1977, Congress retroactively granted Active-Duty status to these brave pilots to ensure that all VA policies, laws, and services would apply to them; yet, the Army recently denied the request of WASPs who were seeking a place in Arlington National Cemetery. They say they are running out of space. This decision flies in the face of our Nation's efforts to recognize, reward, and treat honorably the contributions of all of our veterans. These women deserve the same honor that is bestowed upon hundreds of thousands of their fellow servicemembers. So I urge my colleagues to join me in cosponsoring and supporting the bill. I say this to the VA: Find the space.

Mr. DENHAM

Mr. DENHAM. Will the gentleman yield?

Mr. DENHAM. I thank the gentleman from California (Mr. Farr), my good friend, as we both recognize an amazing life of a good friend and acknowledge and honor the life of this personal friend and beloved community leader, Rich Smith. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather, who passed away peacefully in the comforts of his home, surrounded by his family, on December 27, 2015. Born on December 19, 1946, Rich was raised in Walnut Creek, California. Growing up, Rich's family was involved in 4-H, and agriculture had always played a major role in his life. Rich continued down this path by obtaining a bachelor of science degree in ag science and management from the University of California, Davis in 1968. Originally, Rich was interested in the technical aspects of agriculture. He worked in a lab performing analysis on soil, water, and plant nutrition. Never did Rich believe he would be the owner of a successful wine company, but in 1987, this became a reality when he and his new bride, Claudia, purchased the vineyard known as Paraiso Vineyards. Today Paraiso Vineyards is owned and operated by the Smith family and is located in the Santa Lucia Highlands in Monterey County. The family business consists of almost 3,000 acres of vineyards and continues to evolve in all aspects. Rich leaves behind a tremendous legacy that can be celebrated and appreciated by everyone who visits this magnificent vineyard. Rich had a generous spirit and provided lasting contributions to the community. He was a local hero to the Salinas Valley, and he demonstrated time and again a desire to share his resources and talents with others. I was one of those whom he shared his talents with as he encouraged, supported, and advised me to run for political office. Rich's motto always was: Treat people the way that you want to be treated. All that were lucky enough to spend time with him found that he truly lived by these words. Rich will forever be remembered for his kindness, generosity, leadership, and love. On kindness and generosity, he and Claudia were kind enough and generous enough to host, 23 years ago, then my fiance, now my wife, Sonia, and our wedding at the beautiful Paraiso Springs. On leadership and love, as I was in the State senate, Rich provided leadership for not only the State of California, but the Salinas Valley, the wine industry, creating a wine mecca, pioneering Monterey County to be a leader in wine production as well as a new tourism corridor. His love for family and his community was unmatched. He is a friend that is going to be forever missed. Not only was he a leader, a very kind man, a very generous man, but he had a tremendous sense of humor. I will never forget soon after our marriage, his daughter, Sonia's best friend, was being married at Paraiso Springs as well, and a funny episode happened where Sonia passed out in the middle of the wedding. Rich seized the moment to rib me a little bit and my new mother-in-law. He made it clear that he thought that Sonia may be pregnant on that day. It was a funny gesture that, as a young man, made me a little nervous at the time, but he will always be a friend and sorely missed.

Mr. DENHAM

Mr. DENHAM. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for giving me time to speak on the Surface Transportation Board Reauthorization Act of 2015. This is an important piece of legislation that will reform the STB to work more efficiently to better regulate the railroads. This year is the 35th anniversary of the passage of the Staggers Rail Act of 1980, which saved the railroad industry from bankruptcy. Earlier this year, my subcommittee held a hearing on the successes of the railroad deregulation. We heard how railroads were freed to act more like true businesses by charging market-driven rates and being able to right-size their operations along rail lines, which made economic sense. This deregulation effort culminated in the creation of the STB in the Interstate Commerce Commission Termination Act of 1995. The STB is a small but significant agency that conducts the economic regulation of the railroads and has not been reauthorized since its creation. The bill we consider today would streamline and simplify regulatory activities, a hallmark of this Congress. While the STB has successfully overseen a stronger railroad industry, this bill will help the rail industry better serve its customers: First, it streamlines dispute resolution procedures and sets hard deadlines for completion of rate cases to reduce litigation costs; Second, it provides greater transparency into complaints received by the STB and requires enhanced reporting by the agency; Third, it rejects Big Government re-regulatory action that has been proposed in the past. Instead, it makes necessary reforms to the agency to improve its processes and procedures; Finally, the bill has broad support from shipper groups across the country, including the National Grain and Feed Association, the American Chemistry Council, The Fertilizer Institute, and the American Farm Bureau Federation. I am pleased to stand here today and support the STB Reauthorization Act. It is only fitting that we are considering this bill just over 35 years since Congress passed the Staggers Rail Act, which allowed the railroads to thrive. I believe this bill will continue to make the STB and the rail industry better for the Nation's rail shippers, and I urge my colleagues to support this critical legislation.

Mr. DENHAM

Mr. DENHAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate and honor Mr. Alan Nakanishi for receiving the Lodi Distinguished Citizen Award from the Greater Yosemite Council, and the Boy Scouts of America. I would also like to personally thank him for his years of service working to better the city of Lodi and the state of California. Raised in California's state capitol, Sacramento, Alan attended Lincoln School and Jr. High School. In 8th grade, he joined the Boy Scouts of America where he learned many valuable life lessons including always being prepared. Alan successfully reached the rank of First Class and desired to become an Eagle Scout; however, he chose to be involved in sports instead. With much respect for the Boy Scouts of America program, Alan still actively participates by being a speaker for several clubs. After receiving his Bachelor of Arts degree from Pacific Union College in 1961, Alan continued on to study at the Loma Linda University graduating in 1965 with his Medical Degree. He completed both his medical internship and Ophthalmology Residency from the University of Southern California Medical Center. He later received his Masters of Health Administration from the Virginia Commonwealth University and the Medical College of Virginia in 1990 and 1991. During Alan's early life, he served as a Captain in the United States Army where he was stationed in Texas. After earning his medical degree he served another two years as Major and led the surgical department as Chief of Ophthalmology for the McDonald Army Hospital in Fort Eustis, Virginia. Alan Nakanishi had many extensive roles during his medical career including Chief of Ophthalmology, Retinal Fellowship at the Pacific Medical Center, Chief of Staff at Dameron Hospital, President of Dameron Hospital, co-founder of Delta Eye Medical Group and a significant member of the American Board of Ophthalmology, Alan's political career in California has been substantial. In 2001, he was elected to the Lodi City Council and was selected Mayor of Lodi by his fellow Council members. In 2002, Alan was elected to the California State Assembly and was a member of several committees. He served as the vice-chair of Health, Labor and Employment. Alan was also a member of Appropriation, Higher Education, Rural Caucus, and the Legislative Sporting Caucus. His time in Assembly ended in 2008, and in 2010, Alan was elected to rejoin the Lodi City Council. Only two short years later he was selected again to serve as the Mayor of Lodi. While Alan's accomplishments are outstanding in the work force, it's his community involvement that is tremendous. He served as a Rotarian, church school board member, church officer, member of the country Ground Basin Authority, alternate member of the Delta Protection Commission, and a member of the Delta Coalition Committee. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring and recognizing Alan for his unwavering leadership and many accomplishments and contributions. He has a great dedication for the people and community he has worked so hard to help.

Mr. DENHAM

Mr. DENHAM. Mr. Speaker, first of all, I appreciate the opportunity to have been a conferee on this important piece of legislation. This piece of legislation was a bipartisan effort between not only Republicans and Democrats in the House, but as a conferee who has been working between the House and the Senate, we have now culminated a number of different issues that, for years, we have had hearings on. Specifically, in the subcommittee that I chair--Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials--we are dealing with passenger rail in this bill, with rail safety, and with hazardous material. Under the hazmat title of this bill, it contains many important provisions on crude-by-rail safety: First, we require all new tank cars carrying flammable liquids to actually have a thermal blanket and top fittings protection, which is something that the DOT failed to include in its rule; We also ensure that railroads provide States and local emergency responders with information on crude-by-rail shipments within their States. In my community, this is a huge issue for our first responders, who want to know exactly what is traveling through our community; We also include a provision that fixes a loophole that would have allowed more than 35,000 legacy DOT-111--these old tank cars--to actually remain in service. The rail title follows closely the PRRIA bill of 2015--the passenger rail reauthorization--which we passed out of this House in March of this year: In the bill, we reform Amtrak to actually run more like a business, ensuring that Northeast corridor profits get reinvested into the corridor and make Amtrak more accountable to the States; In the wake of the Philadelphia crash, we make a number of safety improvements, including having cameras in the locomotives. I will remind you that the purpose of this video footage is to assist crash investigators, which is something that would be important in Philadelphia. Let's make sure that this does not punish or retaliate against the employees. Separately, this bill includes reforms that I have long championed and have based on legislation that I have authored in committee, the NEPA Reciprocity Act. We need to eliminate the duplicative environmental reviews. It will save us millions of dollars and years in project delivery time while still ensuring that appropriate steps are taken to mitigate the environmental impact. In California, we have the California Environmental Quality Act. We want to make sure that we have a strong environmental policy. Let's just not waste years in duplication to get these projects done. Let's do them quickly. Let's do them efficiently. Let's save millions of dollars in the process. The bill also provides a much-needed boost in funding to fix our crumbling bridges in our communities. In my community, I continuously talk about the Seventh Street Bridge in Modesto. It is ridiculous that we have any bridges that are below satisfactory, but in this case, this bridge is rated 2 out of 100.

Mr. DENHAM. It is so bad that we don't allow school buses on this. We have passenger cars as well as trucks--trucks that carry goods through Modesto and through our community--yet it is unsafe for school buses and our kids. This much-needed bridge funding will help us to fix many of these threats around our State and around the country. Finally, this legislation will codify pets on trains. For years now, pet owners have been able to take their pets on airplanes. I can go from California to D.C. with my dog; yet I can't take my small dog onto Amtrak. This now changes that. I know that it is a big deal for those who travel on trains frequently to be able to take their pets with them. In conclusion, this is a great bipartisan, long-term highway bill, and I am excited that we are going to finally give certainty to our States. Again, I thank the chairman, Mr. DeFazio, and Mr. Capuano--all who worked hard to make this a great bipartisan effort.

Mr. DENHAM

Mr. DENHAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and honor the life of a beloved Modesto community leader. Carl Boyett passed at the age of 70 last week. On July 16, 1945, Carl was born to Stanton and Carol Boyett. After graduating Downey High School, he was offered an appointment to the United States Coast Guard Academy. He joined the United States Army in 1967, where he displayed the utmost bravery during the tour of duty in Vietnam. He served valiantly during the Tet Offensive and advanced to the rank of sergeant. After returning to civilian life in 1970, Carl began working for his family company, Boyett Petroleum. In 2004, he became the CEO and provided masterful leadership and results-oriented vision to the company, which just celebrated its 75th anniversary. Carl had a generous spirit, participating in numerous enterprises with evidence of lasting contributions to our community. He demonstrated time and again a desire to share his resources and talents with others, and throughout the course of his life, he was the recipient of numerous awards and honors. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring and recognizing my friend for his unwavering leadership, many accomplishments, and contributions on behalf of the Modesto community and the Nation. God bless him always.

Mr. DENHAM

Mr. DENHAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Stanislaus Farm Supply, who will be inducted as a member of the Stanislaus County Ag Hall of Fame ``Legends in Agriculture'' during a ceremony in Modesto, California, on November 12, 2015. Stanislaus Farm Supply, a farmer-owned company, dedicated to being the best farm supply organization in the industry, provides services to farms in California and Nevada. They have three retail locations in California: Modesto, Merced, Susanville, and one in Yerington, Nevada. They offer products of the utmost quality in spreading, spraying, planting, equipment repair, crop consulting and scouting. It all began in 1949 when the steel work strikes contributed to a shrinking supply of bailing wire. Area farmers were forced to pool their resources to secure wire. By the generosity of many including Fred Thiemann who donated office space or Joe Souza who worked for free for the first 6 months, the Stanislaus Farm Supply was born. The County Farm bureau supplied the bulk of the early financing and within five years of business, Stanislaus Farm Supply accomplished an impressive goal of $500,000 in annual sales. They outgrew their current location on 8th and Washington and acquired a new warehouse on E. Service all located in Modesto. This new facility allowed room for the company to expand and grow in the future. Sam Bettencourt became General Manager of the growing company in 1978. In Sam's 37 years he built a legacy around the company. He was active in supporting local youth through junior livestock events and scholarships for students pursuing agricultural related degrees. Sam reinvented the company to be a voice for its member owners which had been decreasing over time before he started with the company. Many of the employees still with Stanislaus Farm Supply were hired by Sam Bettencourt. He was an asset to the company and helped form it into the successful business today. In 2015, Nick Biscay took over as General Manager of Farm Supply. Stanislaus Farm Supply has not only survived but thrived since its official opening in 1949. They contribute this to their ability to adapt with change as there have been many technological advances, climate and environmental changes and more since their opening. Mr. Speaker, please join me in praising and commending Stanislaus Farm Supply, for their significant contributions to agriculture and to the farmers, students, and people of our local community.

Mr. DENHAM

Mr. DENHAM. Mr. Chairman, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Nebraska (Mr. Ashford).

Mr. DENHAM. Mr. Chairman, I demand a recorded vote.

Mr. DENHAM

Mr. DENHAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and honor Turlock City Manager Roy Wasden on his retirement; and to personally thank him for his many years of dedication and profound service to the Turlock community. Joining the City of Turlock in June of 2009, Mr. Wasden took on the chief role of city manager and became responsible for the efficient and effective management of city services. Over the course of his career, Mr. Wasden has brought large corporations to Turlock and paved the way for countless new job positions for its residents. His exemplary customer service was vital to landing these new employers to the community. Mr. Wasden was instrumental in the construction of projects that immensely benefited the City of Turlock including the new Public Safety Facility, the Carnegie Arts Center, the development of the Regional Transit Facility, and the construction of the new affordable housing project called Avena Bella, as well as the large upgrades to the Regional Water Quality Control Facility. These successful projects were achievements that have greatly and positively impacted the economic development in Turlock. Leading the efforts to balance the City of Turlock's budget, Mr. Wasden has executed the task with efficient management and good planning. The city is fiscally sound and continues to provide a high level of service to the community. Before Mr. Wasden's leadership role with the City of Turlock, he spent many years in a variety of public service positions, including more than 30 years working in law enforcement. In 2000, Mr. Wasden was sworn in as Chief of Police for the City of Modesto Police Department. In 2002, the Modesto Police Department was involved in the investigation of the infamous murder case of Laci Peterson, which gained national recognition. It was under Mr. Wasden's leadership that the department was credited for successfully handling this renowned investigation. He was an asset to the police department throughout the complex case. Mr. Wasden's proudest accomplishment is the life he created with his high school sweetheart, Linda Wasden. They have been married for 40 years and together have been blessed with 7 children and 13 grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring Turlock City Manager Roy Wasden on his retirement and thanking him for his exemplary leadership and service to the community of Turlock. We wish him continued success in his retirement and future endeavors.

Mr. DENHAM

Mr. DENHAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and honor South San Joaquin Irrigation District General Manager Jeff Shields on his retirement; and to personally thank him for his many years of profound service to South San Joaquin County. While attending college at Humboldt State University, Jeff studied biological science and natural resources management and graduated with his Bachelor's of Science degree. He has also invested time serving our great nation in the U.S. Air Force. Working as the general manager for other irrigation companies, such as Emerald Public Utility District in Oregon and Trinity Public Utility District in Northern California, amply prepared Jeff for his extensive role at South San Joaquin Irrigation District. He began with the company in June of 2004, and after 3 short years was appointed as the general manager. During Jeff's tenure with South San Joaquin Irrigation District, he was instrumental in implementing successful advances to the region. A solar farm was built to provide power to the Nick C. DeGroot Water Treatment Plant which supplies the drinking water to Manteca, Lathrop and Tracy at a minimum cost. In addition, an award winning, state of the art pressurized water delivery system was built called the Division 9 Irrigation Enhancement Project. This project has received numerous state, national, and international awards and recognition. One of Jeff's most notable contributions was successfully getting the approval for South San Joaquin Irrigation District to become the retail electric provider in its service territory. Because of this accomplishment, all current PG&E customers in Escalon, Manteca and Ripon will see a 15% rate discount. This is a great triumph for the citizens of South San Joaquin County. With California experiencing its fourth consecutive year in a serious drought, Jeff has expertly managed the irrigation district through its most difficult water delivery year in the district's history. He is implementing a succession plan that would assure a smooth transition to new management as they continue to work through the severe drought. Jeff plans on continuing his active involvement in water and energy issues. Being involved in the community is important to Jeff, as he is a member of the Manteca Rotary Club and a director for the Give Every Child a Chance organization. He is on the board of The Utility Reform Network, as well as the board of the Local Energy Aggregation Network. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring and commending the outstanding contributions made to the South San Joaquin County Irrigation District by the General Manager Jeff Shields. We wish him continued success in his retirement and his future endeavors.

Mr. DENHAM

Mr. DENHAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge Mr. Martin Van Buren Sasser, Jr. of Tracy, for his outstanding military service as a World War II Bomber Crewman and his exceptional dedication to Southern Pacific Transportation Company as a longtime employee. The beloved husband, father, and community member passed away on October 27, 2015. In Beatrice, Nebraska on June 9, 1924, Martin Sasser, Jr. was born to Martin and Leota Sasser. At the age of four, Martin and his family moved to Tracy, California, which became their lifelong hometown. He attended school in Tracy throughout his youth and graduated from Tracy High School in 1942. After his high school graduation, Martin became an employee of the Southern Pacific Transportation Company, which has played a vast role in railroad transportation since 1865. After working on behalf of Southern Pacific, Martin enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps. He held numerous personnel positions, including that of tail-gunner and belly-gunner for the Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress during its World War II deployment. Martin completed thirty- five bombing missions out of England, towards targets residing in France and Germany and was involved in the first United States raid over Berlin. Martin also participated in one of the most notorious events of World War II, assisting in the D-Day bombing missions in support of the Normandy Landings. At the end of World War II, Mr. Sasser returned to Tracy after passing through Fox, Oklahoma. During this passage through Oklahoma, he met his wife, Alice, whom Martin would return to Tracy with. Once home in Tracy, Mr. Sasser returned to Southern Pacific Transportation Company, where he resumed working as a crew-dispatcher. After numerous years of diligent work, Mr. Martin Sasser retired as a Southern Pacific agent in 1984. Martin also developed and marketed a recreational balance board called the ``Tilt-O-Bord.'' This device was not only creative, but highly enjoyable. Martin's dedication to his community and fellow brothers and sisters in arms, both former and current, was evident through the work he did throughout Tracy. Mr. Sasser was an avid member of the James McDermott Post 172, the American Legion, Tracy Post 1537, and of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Martin also participated in a vast number of Memorial Day and Veterans Day Services. For a number of years, Mr. Sasser enjoyed his time entertaining hospital and rest home patients, as he was a skilled guitar, harmonica and mouth-harp player. Mr. Sasser was committed to his faith. He served as a charter member of the Grace Baptist Church and held many positions within its congregation. Martin and his wife were able to invest their time traveling domestically and across the globe; visiting Europe, the Holy Land, Canada, and destinations throughout the United States. The Sasser family was blessed with four children, including a daughter and three sons. The family has also been gifted with ten beautiful grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring the life of the late Mr. Martin Van Buren Sasser, for his years of service and outstanding contributions to the community as well as our country.