Sam Farr

Mr. FARR of California

Mr. FARR of California. Mr. Speaker, I am in the habit of paying tribute on this floor to constituents and persons who have made extraordinary contributions to our community. But words fall me when it comes to describing the life of one of Santa Cruz's finest newspaper columnists, Lee Quamstrom. Consequently, Mr. Speaker, I ask your indulgence in my sharing with the House the observations of Mr. Quamstrom's journalism colleagues on the event of his retirement: Whereas, Lee Quamstrom has toiled for the San Jose Mercury News for nearly 20 years, covering daily events in Santa Cruz County, Monterey County as well as the great American West, and during that time has written literally more than a dozen news stories; and Whereas, Lee has covered three generations of Santa Cruz County politicians, simultaneously indulging and insulting them; and Whereas, Lee is the only man in Santa Cruz County to have made the psychedelic journey from Merry Prankster to Cranky Curmudgeon; and Whereas, Lee has acted as a selfless champion of homeless rights, giving even the poorest among us the special privilege to call themselves ``bums''; and Whereas, Lee has been voted ``Man of the Year'' by the Santa Cruz Bicycling Club for his columns that have come flat out against capital punishment for cyclists; and Whereas, Lee is the longest-standing member of the local journalistic community's honorary, limited organization, ``The Three Biggest Jerks in Santa Cruz County,'' serving along with such notables as Dick Little, Steve Shender, Tom Honig, Bob Smith, Greg Beebe, Lane Wallace and Don Wilson; and Whereas, Lee has been a friend, an advocate and an intellectual voice for all that is good about journalism, Santa Cruz County and for all who ply their trade just trying to get a story in the paper without the copy desk screwing it up. He's funny, appropriately disrespectful and--perhaps the greatest praise of all--never boring to have around. Now, therefore, be it resolved that Lee Quamstrom has been the most memorable Santa Cruz resident ever and thus shall be allowed to dismantle the Santa Cruz lighthouse, brick by brick, and take it to the real Surf City, Huntington Beach in Orange County, Calif. As his buddy and former fellow columnist, James Trotter, put it: ``He might as well take the lighthouse because without Lee Quamstrom, Santa Cruz will never be the same place again.''

Mr. FARR of California

Mr. FARR of California. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege today to honor Shirley Prussin of Monterey County, California, on her 80th birthday, May 16, 2001. Inspired by Eleanor Roosevelt, Shirley has advocated for human rights throughout her active life. Raised during the depression and coming of age during World War II, Shirley experienced the hardships and challenges of that generation. A native New Yorker, Shirley graduated from Brooklyn College in 1941 and shortly thereafter married Sam Prussin, a chemical engineer. As many returning veterans from World War II, the young Prussin family had a difficult time finding housing. This experience left a lasting impression on Shirley as she began her life dedicated to political activism. Moving to Southern California in 1947, Shirley got her first taste of politics working for Tom Rees' race for the California State Assembly. This was just the beginning of a long list of Democratic campaigns Shirley would work on throughout her life, including my own. She was a tireless volunteer and leader in the party, working for the local Democratic Party headquarters during elections in Los Angles and later on in Monterey County. Shirley's proudest moments were in the 1960's when she participated in Another Mother For Peace movement. She was a grassroots organizer and educated voters to lobby their legislators to end the war in Vietnam. Today she carries on her grassroots work advocating for reproductive freedom and human rights. Shirley first moved to Monterey County, in 1975. The depth of her commitment to our community is truly outstanding. Shirley has had a leadership role in the ACLU, the Democratic Womens Club, the Reproductive Rights Coalition, the YWCA and Planned Parenthood. With her keen intellect and determination combined with her grace and warmth, Shirley has made a significant contribution to human rights for all individuals. While doing all of this, Shirley also taught math and science to gifted students, was a businesswoman, a wife and mother of two sons. Humanitarian, social activist, Democratic leader, feminist, and steadfast friend, Shirley Prussin inspires and touches the lives of all who know her.

Mr. FARR of California

Mr. FARR of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 42nd Annual Castroville Artichoke Festival, taking place May 19th and 20th. While quite unknown to many people outside of my district in California, Castroville is the self-declared ``Artichoke Capital of the World,'' and this delicious thistle is one of the largest crops in northern Monterey County. The Artichoke Festival is an annual two-day event that celebrates the culture of the Salinas Valley, specifically the growing, harvesting and many uses of the artichoke itself. Every year new events are planned, but the most popular ones include a classic car show, a parade, and, of course, the food. This year will surely be more exciting, with the addition of a 10K/half marathon race and an artichoke recipe contest. The artichoke first came to central California in 1921, when four families with close ties to Italy decided to grow the thistle that was so popular in Europe right in Castroville. With a climate that is perfect for this crop, the artichoke has become a rich part of the heritage and culture of our area. Because of this importance in the life and economy of my district, and because it is such a delicious treat for anyone familiar with this thistle, I am pleased to be able to honor the 42nd Annual Castroville Artichoke Festival.

Mr. FARR of California

Mr. FARR of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a legendary jazz musician who passed away last month. Smith Dobson died April 20, 2001, in an automobile accident that took the life of a great pianist and teacher. Mr. Dobson was only 54. Smith Dobson had a career that led him to some of the highest levels of performance. He has shared the stage with musicians such as Art Pepper, Pharoah Sanders, Freddie Hubbard, Mundell Lowe, Stan Getz, among many others, and has spent the last 13 years playing with vibraphonist Bobby Hutcherson. At the beginning of his career, in fact, he was a member of the Airmen of Note, the official White House jazz band. His teaching career has been equally praised, having held positions in jazz history at the University of California, Santa Cruz, and jazz piano and harmony at San Jose State University. Mr. Dobson was also a dedicated community advocate for musical education and outreach. He sat on the boards of the San Jose Jazz Society, the Stanford Jazz Alliance and the Kuumbwa Jazz Center in Santa Cruz. Indeed, Mr. Speaker, his death has shocked our local community as well as the jazz community at large. At his memorial service, over 1,000 people came to pay their respects, filling the chapel two hours before the service even began. His life was celebrated in word and in song, as his friends and colleagues shared tales and memories. Smith Dobson has been described as the ``moral center of the community'', a ``world-class'' player, and the ``first-call guy''. In fact, last year the internationally known Monterey Jazz Festival recognized his talent and dedication to his craft with a lifetime achievement award. He and his family were also the recipients of the 2001 Gail Rich Award for excellence in the arts. Mr. Dobson's loss is indeed a loss for us all. Smith Dobson was a consummate musician and member of his community, and I am sure that his legacy will continue through the talents of his two children and wife, all of whom are accomplished musicians as well. He will be greatly missed by his wife, Gail of Santa Cruz; son, Smith Jr. of San Francisco; and daughter, Sasha, of New York; as well as thousands of musicians, friends, colleagues and fans.

Mr. FARR of California

Mr. FARR of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Deputy Ray George of the Monterey County Sheriff's Department and their Drug Abuse Resistence Education (DARE) program. As you may know the DARE program helps bring a multi-faceted approach to staying away from drugs in the classrooms of 5th and 6th graders around the world. Deputy George is one of three full-time deputies assigned to the Monterey County DARE program, and it is for his recent fund-raising efforts that I wish to honor him here. Mr. Speaker, the Monterey County DARE program, currently under Deputy George, Deputy Vince Hernandez, and Deputy Karen Gentile, was founded in 1993 by Deputy Fabian Barrera. In the past 8 years, they have coordinated with the local police departments through the county, as well as the schools to bring their courses that aim at helping young people face drug abuse in their lives. Some of the key topics they try to bring to their students include: building selfesteem; the consequences of drug use; decision making skills; recognizing and resisting peer pressure; techniques to say no; and ways to deal with stress. Deputy George recently organized a black-tie fund raiser in Monterey, and his hard work was made clear with the success of this event. Everyone present that evening, myself included, felt that these deputies help bring a crucial message to our communities. Their dedication to this cause is commendable, and I would like to especially honor Deputy George for his commitment to excellence. The service of local officials such as these are an asset to our nation, and I thank the Speaker for this chance to honor them.

Mr. FARR of California

Mr. FARR of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a man whose devotion to the youth in my district is an inspiration to us all. Mr. Harland B. Johnson helped start the Boys and Girls Club of Santa Cruz, California in 1966, and he served as its founding President of the Board of Directors. On May 11, 2001, Mayor Tim Fitzmaurice of the City of Santa Cruz will proclaim the day as ``Harland B. Johnson Day'', and I am proud to be able to salute him here, Mr. Speaker. Since Mr. Johnson first began the Boys and Girls Club of Santa Cruz, he has continued to sit on its Board of Directors. It is this 35 year tenure that is the milestone we are all celebrating this coming May, and I believe that his commitment to the youth of Santa Cruz is a shining example of dedication and community service. In his 35 years with the Club, Mr. Johnson has raised literally hundreds of thousands of dollars to ensure the operation and maintenance of the facilities and programs that the Boys and Girls Club offers. Because of his tireless efforts, tens of thousands of Santa Cruz youth have had the opportunity to utilize all that the Club has to offer. This safe environment, which has served as a constant for several generations of schoolchildren, has provided a place for the community to come together and help our children become enriched, educated and dedicated individuals. Harland B. Johnson has helped make the Boys and Girls Club possible, and has been the driving force behind the success that this institution. For all of his work and dedication for the past 35 years, and for the many years left to come, I join with the City of Santa Cruz in honoring Mr. Johnson.

Mr. FARR of California

Mr. FARR of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Bonnie Gartshore, a woman of letters and history who will be honored in Monterey, California on June 9. The living memory of Monterey and Pacific Grove, Bonnie is a mild- mannered journalist, a determined educator, an accomplished poet and a lifelong human-rights activist. She was a feminist before the term was coined. And as a devoted Catholic, she has always displayed her conviction, piety and humanity through her life and her work. Bonnie was introduced at a tribute dinner at Carmel Mission in 1983 as ``a true peacemonger and an incorrigible advocate for the poor and beleaguered.'' At that dinner Bonnie, ever the teacher, called attention to the statues of Benny Bufano, pointing out that he always turned the palms of hands outward, ``open to receive and also to let go.'' That's an important lesson, Bonnie explained. ``Something I have learned: If you are busy hanging onto things, you are going to miss a lot along the way.'' Bonnie was born in Monterey 75 years ago--on Nov. 23, 1925--in the heyday of the sardine industry that was centered just a few blocks from her Filmore Street home. She called it a great place for living and learning, with few houses and a mix of people that included school principals, doctors, drunks and bums. It was the Monterey that John Steinbeck wrote about. And it conditioned her for life. ``I wasn't surprised by anything because I had seen it all growing up,'' she said later. As for childhood: ``What I did as a young girl growing up in the New Monterey that used to be, was soak in the twin pleasures of forest and beach, develop a delight in reading and a curiosity about people and places, and absorb the values of my mother, who was a mixture of middle-class morality and liberal political views.'' Her parents tried to calm her independence by sending her to Catholic school in the 1930s, hoping the nuns would straighten her out. But Bonnie ended up writing some of the services and sermons for the priests of the diocese. Bonnie is one of the few women ever asked to deliver a homily at San Carlos Cathedral. She did it, of course, preaching on her theme: ``Jesus doesn't leave anyone out.'' She graduated from San Carlos School in 1939 and went on to Pacific Grove High School, where she discovered a knack for writing and became editor of the school newspaper. Bonnie then went to San Jose State College as a journalism major. She edited the campus paper, the Spartan Daily, of course, and graduated with honors in 1947. Once out of school, Bonnie went to work for the Monterey Peninsula Herald and started what has become a 53-year association as a writer and editor through three locations and four owners. She began her career in the society section, where ``the girls'' were assigned in those days, as the assistant editor. Her first office was in the tower of the building at Pearl and Washington Streets, which was The Herald's location in those days, Morgan's Coffee & Tea these days. Bonnie's first stint with The Herald lasted for 15 years. Then she left to tour England and Scotland, work for the Paso Robles Daily Press, do research in Big Sur, and work as assistant editor of The Observer, the weekly newspaper of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Monterey. She also took a variety of jobs that included writing advertising brochures, doing publicity for the Monterey County and Santa Cruz County Fairs and writing the introduction to an aphrodisiac cookbook. Bonnie also handled special sections for The Herald and wrote occasional stories for The Herald's Weekend Magazine until she eventually returned full time. In 1990, after establishing herself as Monterey's ``historian in residence,'' she started a weekly history column, Looking Back, for The Herald. The Monterey History & Art Association recently published a collection of those columns as a book titled ``Footprints from the Past.'' Bonnie also developed a writers' workshop for the inmates at the Soledad Correctional Training Facility. She described it at the time as ``something useful I could do.'' Subsequently, she was hired by Hartnell College in Salinas to teach English and speech classes at the prison, an avocation that lasted for a 20-year stretch. During that time, Bonnie staged a poetry reading at the Carl Cherry Center for the Arts in Carmel in order to raise money to publish a book of the convicts' poems. She has also published two books of her own poetry, ``Trying to Put it Together'' in 1988 and ``Taking My Cue from the Walrus'' in 2000. Beyond her professional pursuits, Bonnie's devotion to religion has made her a lifelong activist for peace and social justice. ``In the 1960s I came to understand that religion and activism go hand in hand,'' she explained. She picketed with the United Farm Workers before it became fashionable, marched with civil rights and peace groups, helped organize a Monterey memorial of the bombing of Hiroshima, interviewed the homeless and presented programs about humanity in Monterey, Pacific Grove and Carmel. She organized programs for Catholic women, presented retreats and wrote liturgies for the priests of the other gender. Bonnie has made her home in Pacific Grove for the past 45 years, where she's been active in anything literary, including the Monterey Peninsula Dickens Fellowship, The Robert Louis Stevenson Club of Monterey and the Cherry Foundation in Carmel. In 1989, when Bonnie was presented the Woman of the Year award from the Quota Club of Monterey-Pacific Grove, she told that audience: ``I'm learning all the time. . . . There were all these people along the way, all the wonderful people I was learning from.''

Mr. FARR of California

Mr. FARR of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of a pillar of the community, Mrs. Jean Winifred Hurlbert. Wini Hurlbert was an active member of many groups, organizations and movements in Pacific Grove and the Monterey Peninsula community in my district. Mrs. Hurlbert passed away recently, surrounded by friends and family, at the age of 94. Mrs. Hurlbert and her husband, Elgin ``Oxy'' Hurlbert, a retired Navy captain, were lively members of the town of Pacific Grove for almost their entire lives. Wini began her life on the peninsula when she was 17, working at a summer retreat center, and quickly became a fixture to those who knew her. She moved to the area full time in the 1920's, and began a teaching career at Pacific Grove Grammar School, and it was there that she met her future husband. She was a dedicated teacher and educator who was instrumental in starting the preschool program in Pacific Grove, as well as being active in both the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts. Along with her devotion to teaching, Wini was an inspiring conservationist. She was an active member of the Monterey Peninsula Audubon Society, the Sierra Club, the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History Association, and was also a member of The Nature Conservancy, American Birding Association, Hawk Mountain Society, the California Native Plant Society, and the Wilderness Society. Her community interests did not end there, as she was also active in the Friends of the Pacific Grove Library, the Order of the Eastern Star, the Battle of the Coral Sea Association, the Monterey Peninsula Community Concert Association and the Monterey Peninsula Choral Society. Mrs. Hurlbert was a warm and gracious person who touched so many lives throughout the 20th Century. Her presence will not soon be forgotten, and she is missed by everyone who knew her, especially her son, Jerry Hurlbert of Weaverville, California; her daughter, Jean Jorgensen of Jackson, Wyoming; eight grandchildren; ten great- grandchildren; and one great-great-grandson.

Mr. FARR of California

Mr. FARR of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life of a woman who helped change the face of the Monterey Peninsula in California. Caroline Page died last month at the age of 72, but the legacy she created will carry her memory for a long time to come. Caroline was the daughter of a consul and the wife of a member of the military, so she was used to traveling and moving. When she moved to Monterey in 1958, however, she knew she had found a place where she could work wonders, and lived there until she died. She joined the Monterey Peninsula chapter of the League of Women Voters, and remained active in it until her death. Indeed, Mr. Speaker, she chaired several committees and projects, and even served as the chapter's president from 1978 to 1980. She was the driving force behind the establishment of the League's housing committee, and helped complete their two-year study on affordable housing on the Peninsula. Her political interests did not end there. Caroline was active on many political campaigns, beginning with George McGovern's presidential campaign. She was also active on the campaigns for former Monterey County Supervisor Karin Strasser Kauffman, Leon Panetta's first run for this body, and my father, Fred Farr's California State Assembly campaigns. Caroline Page was also a tireless advocate and worker for education. She did everything from volunteering in classrooms to serving on local school boards and community college boards. Perhaps her greatest inflence in education came when she was elected to the Monterey Peninsula College (MPC) Board of Trustees in 1987, and subsequently re- elected for two more terms. In this role she helped form the MPC Foundation, the essential fund-raising arm of the college. With donations from her and her husband and the rest of the community, the Foundation helped build a language lab and complete renovation projects throughout the campus, among other things. Caroline was an inspiring woman who was universally adored. She was honored by many throughout her life, including a special recognition by the Monterey Peninsula Chamber of Commerce as their 1999 Public Official of the Year. She was a devoted, dedicated and knowledgeable public servant, and she will be sorely missed by her husband of almost 50 years, Charles; sons Stephen of Sonoma, California, David and Chris of San Jose, California, and Jeff of Silver Spring, Maryland; her brother, John Randolf of Burlington, Iowa; and six grandchildren.

Mr. FARR of California Mr

Mr. FARR of California Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a dear friend of mine, Mr. Fred Nelson, who passed away unexpectedly on February 5, 2001. Fred was an integral part of the community of Carmel, California, and will be missed by us all. Fred and I went to school together in Carmel, and he graduated from Carmel High School in 1958. He was a great athlete. Every football team he played on lost not a single game and won all the league's championships. After graduation, he joined the U.S. Army, and served his country in uniform until 1961. After serving in the Army, he worked as a banker in the San Francisco Bay Area until finally returning to Carmel seven years ago. For those of my colleagues who know the community of Carmel, you are first struck by the beauty of the town and the area around it. But you are equally drawn to the notion that Carmel is a town of neighbors, not occupants, and we are a tight-knit community. Many people knew and loved Fred, and I am thankful to be one of them. Fred's passing has affected many people, and he will be sorely missed by his wife, Lynne; his son, Rodrick of Los Altos, California; his mother, Winifred Haag of Carmel; his sister, Lynn Rivera of Aptos, California; and his two grandsons.

Mr. FARR of California

Mr. FARR of California. Mr. Speaker, not long ago a most impressive man gave the invocation to the House. On March 14, The Reverend Calvin Turpin opened our session with a prayer of humility and spiritualism. Dr. Turpin comes from my district from the city of Hollister. On that morning I had the pleasure of introducing to you and our other colleagues Dr. Turpin and I inserted into the Record some of his personal backgroup. But I wanted to expand on that information so you could all be aware of the contributions of Dr. Turpin, not only to this body, but to persons across the United States. Mr. Speaker, I submit Dr. Turpin's biography to be reprinted for the House. Biography General Name: Calvin C. Turpin Address: 188 Elm Drive, Hollister, CA 95023 Phone: xxxxxxxxxxxxxx Birth: November 8, 1924 (Granite City, Illinois) Married: Eudell Coody Children: Susan Turpin Jones, 1956; John Thomas Turpin, 1958 Hobbies: Camping, Reading, Authentic Cowboy Cooking Education B.A.--Baylor University, 1949 B.D.--Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, 1955 M.A.--Baylor University, 1952 M.R.E.--Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, 1958 M.A.(L.S.)--Vanderbilt University (Peabody College), 1962 M.Div.--Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, 1975 S.T.D.--Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary, 1967 (Doctor of Science in Theology) Other Education University of Arkansas, 1945-47 (Law, Business) Texas Tech University, 1950 (Graduate Study in History) Vanderbilt University Divinity School, 1955-56 (Ph.D Study) Judson College (Computer Science, History) San Bernardino State University (Special Study) Professional Experience Ordained Southern Baptist Minister Minister of Churches: California, Texas, Kentucky, Tennessee Jacksonville College, 1950-52 (Professor of History, English, Greek) Belmont College, 1955-56 (Professor of Religion) Austin-Peay State University, 1956-57 (Professor of Bible) Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary, 1961-66 (Assoc. Librarian, Acting Librarian, Instructor: Old Testament, Research) Graduate Theological Union, 1965 (Library Consultant) Minot State University, 1966-67 (Director of Libraries, Prof. of Library Science) Judson College, 1967-70 (Director of the Library, Prof. of Religion and Library Science, Chairman: Dept of Library Science) North Texas State University (Visiting Professor) Hardin-Simmons University, 1970-77 (Director of Libraries and Prof. of Religion. Early retirement due to health) Fraternities, Organizations, Honors, etc. Beta Phi Mu (International Library Science Honor Fraternity) Gamma Iota Phi Delta Kappa American Library Association (past member) American Theological Library Association (past member) Western Theological Library Association (President, past member) Alabama Library Association (past member) Texas Library Association (past member) American Association of University Professor (past member) Rotary Club (past member) Lions Club (past member) The American Legion: Post #69: National Chaplain, 2000-2001; California Department Chaplain, 1990-92, 94-95; District 28 Chaplain; Commander and Chaplain, Post #69; Boys State: Attended Arkansas first session, 1940; 40 et 8, Voiture 621 Lilly Endowment Scholar Who's Who in America--2000 Who's Who in the World (selected for inclusion) Who's Who in Religion (various years) Who's Who in the West (various years) Who's Who in American Education (various years) Who's Who in American College and University Administration (various years) Who's Who in Library Science (various years) Who's Who in Community Service (various years) Who's Who in Alabama (various years) Who's Who in Texas (various years) Directory of American Scholars (various years) Men of Achievement (various years) Two Thousand Men and Achievement (various years) Personalities of the South (various years) Distinguished Service Award (Hardin-Simmons University) Member: Lighthouse Baptist Church, Seaside, California Congressional Senior Citizen Intern--Washington D.C.--1989 Veterans Memorial Park Commission, San Benito County, California Rent Control Commission, Hollister, California Publications Beyond My Dreams: Memories . . . Interpretations, Romance Publishers 50 Years of Ministry: Challenges and Changes, C.T.C. Publishing Co. Selected Writings and a Limited Bibliography of Calvin C. Turpin. Romance Pub. Rupert N. Richardson: The Man and His Works, Hardin-Simmons University History of the First Baptist Church, Gilroy, CA, Romance Publishers ``The Rock Church'': A Brief History of the Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church Gravel Hill (White County), Arkansas, C.T.C. Publishing Co. Contributions To A Romanian History Symposium, Hardin-Simmons University Writings and Research of the Faculty at Hardin-Simmons University Encyclopedia of Southern Baptists (Historical articles) Over 100 articles in various publications Military Service U.S. Army, 1943-45 (Field Artillery, Coast Artillery, Military Police--worked with Prisoners of War) U.S. Air Force Auxiliary--Civil Air Patrol Rank: Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Chaplain: Deputy Chief of Chaplains (National)--Retired Pacific Region Chaplains: Alaska, California, Hawaii, Nevada, Oregon, Washington--ranked No. 1 in Nation Pacific Region Deputy Chaplain California Wing Chaplain--Ranked No. 1 in Nation Group 18, CA. Wing Group 10, CA. Wing Founder and Director: Pacific Region Chaplains' Staff College Texas Assistant Wing Chaplain Abilene Composite Squadron, Texas Aerospace Instructor Observer Rated Awards: Exceptional Service Award National Commander's Commendation Commander's Commendation (4) Unit Citation Gil Robb Wilson--No. 384 Paul E. Garber (with star) Grover Loening Leadership Membership Charles E. ``Chuck'' Yeager Aerospace Achievement Aerospace Education Red Service Ribbon Search and Rescue Encampment Senior Recruitment Ribbon Certificate of Proficiency California Wing Chaplains Award (First to be named by peers) Pacific Region Chaplain of the Year, 1989 Schools, Study, etc. Level I Orientation

Mr. FARR of California

Mr. FARR of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a public servant of the highest order, a man who has given over two decades of his life to the community. Mr. Speaker, Mike Rotkin of Santa Cruz, California, has recently celebrated the milestone of twenty-one years of public service, a most commendable celebration. After living in Santa Cruz since 1969, when he came as a graduate student to the University of California, Mr. Rotkin decided to put his activism into action. He began his civic life in 1977, when he was first elected to the Santa Cruz City Council. Since that time, he has served on various city commissions, including his time as Chairperson for the Metropolitan Transit Commission. Mike was elected Mayor of Santa Cruz in 1981, and has served two other terms as Mayor since then. Mr. Rotkin's service extends beyond the role of politician. An active voice in the community, he regularly addresses city and national issues in letters to our local newspapers, and by enmeshing himself in a myriad of causes. His commitment to the community is demonstrated by his position as a Lecturer at the University of California, Santa Cruz, where he teaches and advises students on taking an active role in both the local and international realms. Indeed, many of his students have interned in my offices. In a time when a lifelong career in public service is looked down upon, and activism and interest in government is declining, it is refreshing to see individuals like Mike Rotkin. I applaud his efforts over the past twenty-one years to work with and for the people of Santa Cruz, and I join his colleagues in thanking him for his tireless efforts.

Mr. FARR of California

Mr. FARR of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Jade Allison Mansfield, a woman who lived a rich and service-filled life before suddenly passing away at the age of forty-one. Uniformly described as a pillar of the community, Jade's drowning on February 19 is a very unfortunate loss to south Monterey County. Jade personified the best in civic spirit and was well-known throughout south Monterey County for the many diverse causes she undertook in order to better her community. Jade, a lifelong resident of Monterey County, was born in Salinas on December 9, 1959. She served for four years in the United States Air Force as a crew chief and aircraft mechanic for the F4 fighting jet. While managing a successful bakery in Palo Alto, Jade earned a degree in Political Science from California State University San Francisco and a Doctor of Jurisprudence Law from Monterey College of Law. Upon completion of her law degree, Jade embarked on an impressive career of community service, volunteering her services to low-income senior citizens at a local non-profit legal services office. She eventually became Legal Service's for Seniors' full time attorney, assisting dozens of clients a year in her work to protect seniors against elder abuse and financial scams. In addition to her work on behalf of the elderly, Jade ran a law practice assisting low-income clients in south Monterey County, providing much-needed legal assistance to those least able to obtain it. Prior to earning her law degree, she worked in the Monterey County government, helping those who needed aid. Her generosity of spirit and her commitment to her community are further demonstrated by the active role she undertook in her neighborhood, and the answering support she showed towards her grandmother. Jade worked hard in her role as President of her rural homeowners association, and was tireless in ensuring that her neighbors had clean water and in providing other small services. She happily took on the responsibility of managing her grandmother's affairs when her grandmother was no longer able to care for herself; in this service she donated many hours each week to visiting and caring for her grandmother. Jade deeply touched the lives of those around her; her intelligence, wit, and absolute joy in life were truly remarkable. Her recommitment to assisting others was manifest in all aspects of her life. Jade's passing is a terrible loss throughout Monterey County, but especially to her friends and family, the legal community, the elderly, and the countless others who knew or were assisted by her. Her energy, tenacity, and kindness will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Mr. FARR of California

Mr. FARR of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Heather Courtney Meurer, a young woman who recently and suddenly passed away at the age of 32. Heather was the daughter of my good friend, and a dedicated public servant, Fred Meurer, and her loss was felt immediately. Born in Seoul, Korea, Heather was raised in Salinas, California, and graduated from Salinas High School in 1987. Since her high school graduation, Heather had been working at St. Agnes Medical Center while pursuing her education. She had completed an accounting degree at Fresno State University, and was earning a master's degree in speech therapy at the time of her unfortunate death. Heather's death, a young 32, is especially tragic because she had so much ahead of her, including exciting new opportunities through her upcoming speech therapy degree. She will be missed by her mother, Judi Albright Meurer and father Fred Meurer, both of Salinas, CA.; two sisters, Ashley Lafayette of Marina, CA., and Marie Barfuss of Utah; three brothers, David Meurer of Salinas, CA., and Steven and John Farnsworth of Utah; and her Korean birth mother, Monica Tedrowe. I sympathize with the Meurer family and their loss, and I can only hope that the love and support of their friends and community are helping them through this difficult time.

Mr. FARR of California

Mr. FARR of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Jim B. Nielsen, a man who made deep and lasting contributions to Watsonville through his achievements in industry and civic service. Before Jim's death at the age of 90, he enjoyed a successful and storied career in the produce industry beginning in 1929, raised a family, and contributed decades of civic service to the Watsonville community. Jim's experience raising crops began at age 8 on a Pajaro Valley Farm, where he helped his family cultivate crops using horse drawn implements. He operated his own produce company for 60 years, earning a reputation for fair dealing and conservation. He served as President of the California Warehouse association, and his flair for leadership carried into other areas of his life. His achievements as a leader within the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, with whom he served for 65 years, won him election to the position of Grand Esteemed Loyal Knight, one of the most honored posts within the national, 1.5 million-member fraternal organization. Beyond the Elks, Jim served the Watsonville community as a Santa Cruz County Grand Jury member, by working on the California Draft Board, as director of the Watsonville Red Cross Chapter, as a volunteer fireman, and as a member of the board of directors of the Valley National Bank. Jim was an avid sportsman and an outdoor enthusiast. He managed and played on the Watsonville Falcons and later played semi-pro football with the Watsonville team. He and his wife Marilyn spent much of their time riding jeeps, hiking, enjoying the mountain country, and managing their horses at their Heaven Hill Ranch in San Benito County. Jim's family grew to include his wife Marilyn, a son and daughter, two stepsons, one stepdaughter, three grandchildren, and three great- granddaughters. Jim can best be remembered as a pillar of the community and as a template for a life well-lived. His decades of hard work in the produce industry and his steadfast commitment to civic service stand as positive examples to his community. His devotion to many interests, including sports and the outdoors, lasted throughout his life, giving him truly golden ``golden years''. His leadership and his kindness will be missed by all who knew him.

Mr. FARR of California

Mr. FARR of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Howard Classen as he celebrates the end of his tenure at the Natividad Medical Center in Monterey, California. Mr. Classen retired from his position as Chief Executive Officer last month, and will be honored by his colleagues, friends and admirers in a dinner on Sunday, March 11, 2001. Mr. Speaker, I would like to join these people in saluting Mr. Classen's enormous contributions to the Monterey community. Natividad Medical Center is Monterey County's public hospital, and its obligation to both serve the residents of the county and continually restructure its caregiving operation has proved a daunting challenge to all involved in its operation. Mr. Classen, however, has embraced the recent changes in medical care and administration, and in the process has strengthened Natividad's scope and presence in the Monterey Bay area. Howard Classen was raised in Chicago, Illinois, and obtained his Master's Degree in Hospital Administration at Cornell University in New York. Before coming to Natividad, he worked in a number of acute care hospital administration positions, including chief executive officer positions with National Medical Enterprises, Inc., and San Mateo General Hospital in San Mateo, California. Mr. Classen has also been active on State committees in California regarding the issues that have arisen with the changes in Medicaid, which is known as Medi-Cal in our State. He has also consulted on major managed-care plans and has been involved in the design, financing and construction of several major hospital projects. One of the many projects in which Mr. Classen was instrumental was the remodeling and modernization of the Natividad Medical Center and its facilities in 1998. This state-of-the-art facility will no doubt continue to facilitate treatment well into the 21st Century, and much of the credit for this goes to Howard. Beyond the scope of large projects such as this, Mr. Classen has also shown his dedication to the day-to-day operation of Natividad Medical Center. He is truly committed to the Center's mission of providing high-quality, cost-effective healthcare to all residents of Monterey County, and has worked hard to reach out and collaborate with others on major projects and minor details. Mr. Speaker, it is clear that we have lost an inspirational member of the Monterey County healthcare profession with Mr. Classen's retirement. I am sure that I speak for many when I say that his tireless work will not soon be forgotten, and we are all thankful. I would like to personally wish him well in this new stage of his life, and hope that he continues to be a presence in the Monterey Peninsula healthcare community.

Mr. FARR of California

Mr. FARR of California. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to submit background material on Dr. Calvin Turpin. Dr. Turpin, from my district, offered the prayer to open the House today. Dr. Calvin C. Turpin of Hallister, CA, is a native of Illinois. He is a retired professor of religion and an administrator from Hardin Simmons University, Abilene, TX. Dr. Turpin earned a B.A., and M.A. from Baylor University, Waco, TX; An M.A. from Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN; Bachelor of Divinity; M.R.E. (Master of Religious Education) and a Master of Divinity from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Louisville, KY, and a Doctor of Science in Theology from Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary, Mill Valley, CA. Dr. Turpin served as Deputy Chief of Chaplains for the Civil Air Patrol. He and his wife Eudell are the parents of a son and daughter. Dr. Turpin served in the Army during World War II and has served as a minister in Southern Baptist Churches in Texas, Kentucky, Tennessee, and California. Presently he serves as National Chaplain of the American Legion (2000-2001).

Mr. FARR of California

Mr. FARR of California. Mr. Speaker, I am honored and privileged today to introduce Dr. Calvin Turpin, who just gave us our prayer. Dr. Turpin hails from my district, from the city of Hollister, which is one of California's oldest counties. Actually, Hollister is the earthquake capital of the world. Even though it is a small county and a county seat, it has very powerful people. Dr. Turpin is truly a citizen of the world. He has traveled the world over, inspiring service men and women to maintain their faith in God and country, even during the darkest hours of battle. He is a servant to all who have served their country in good times and bad, and looked for the comfort of a counsel. Currently Dr. Turpin fulfills his mission to God as the national chaplain of the American Legion. He does us all proud in this role. But it is I who am proudest today to say that Dr. Turpin shares his wisdom and his grace with us, fresh from my district. I thank him for being here and for bringing a solid sense of duty and integrity to this Chamber. Mr. Speaker, I include a biography of Dr. Turpin to be printed in the Extension of Remarks section of the Record.

Mr. FARR of California

Mr. FARR of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to brag a little. In fact, I rise today to brag a lot. Why? Because again my district is the site of cutting-edge advances in health care services and health care technology. On March 15, the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) will accredit the first office-based surgery practice in the nation. The Monterey Bay Medical Surgery Center and practice of Robert Mraule, D.D.S., M.D., and David Perrott, D.D.S., M.D., in Salinas, will be the first recipient of this standards-based accrediting process. The Monterey Bay Medical Surgery Center was awarded office-based accreditation following a thorough on-site evaluation. The practice was evaluated on its compliance with no less than 146 standards that address key patient safety and quality issues, such as patient care, staffing, customer service, improving care and improving health, and responsible leadership. The Monterey Bay Medical Surgery Center provides services for patients requiring surgical intervention, and care of oral and maxillofacial/cosmetic conditions. Digital radiography, anesthetic techniques and equipment, computerized patient education processes and electronic records are used there. More than 8.3 million surgeries were performed last year in an estimated 41,000 office-based surgery sites across the United States. Experts predict the number will surpass those performed in hospitals in another year or two. This trend bespeaks the critical need for standards-based practices, like those developed by JCAHO, in order to protect patients and ensure only the highest quality of care from any office-based surgery practice to which they avail themselves. As the nation's leading evaluator of safety and quality in healthcare organizations, JCAHO has more than 25 years' experience in promoting safe, high-quality care for patients seeking care at more than 40 types of outpatient settings. The office-based surgery standards were established specifically for single sites of care with up to four physicians, dentists or podiatrists. JCAHO evaluates and accredits nearly 19,000 health care organizations and programs in the United States. Accreditation is recognized nationwide as a symbol of quality that indicates that an organization meets certain performance standards. JCAHO has certainly chosen a good place to start its accreditation program of office-based surgery by starting in Salinas. Even more, it has chosen a solid model for others to follow in meeting the stringent JCAHO standards by choosing Drs. Mraule and Perrott. I congratulate them on their fine work and urge my colleagues to join me in acknowledging their contribution to health care services on the Central Coast of California.

Mr. FARR of California

Mr. FARR of California. Mr. Speaker, it has been many years since I joined the Peace Corps, and I rise today to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Peace Corps. It was started on March 1, 1961, when President Kennedy signed the legislation launching the Peace Corps--establishing a bold and hopeful experiment to all Volunteers to bring practical grassroots assistance to the people of developing nations to help them build a better life for themselves and their children. Forty years later, the Peace Corps has succeeded beyond everyone's expectations. Today there are more than 162,000 returned volunteers in the United States, six of whom serve in the House of Representatives and two in the United States Senate. They have served in 134 different nations, making significant and lasting contributions from Armenia and Bangladesh to Uzbekistan and Zimbabwe. There are more than 7,000 volunteers that are now living and working overseas. They are addressing critical development needs on a person- to-person basis: working with teachers and parents to teach English, math and science; helping spread and gain access to clear water; to grow more food; to help prevent the spread of AIDS; to help entrepreneurs start new businesses; to train students to use computers; and to work with non-governmental organizations to protect our environment. Above all, Volunteers leave behind skills that allow individuals and communities to take charge of their own futures. In our increasing interconnected global community, Peace Corps volunteers also promote greater cross-cultural awareness, both in the countries in which they serve and when they return home. As they work shoulder to shoulder with their host communities, Volunteers embody and share some of America's most enduring values; freedom, opportunity, hope, progress. It is these bonds of friendship and understanding that they create and that can build the foundations for peace among nations. And I can personally testify that the best service that is given to the Peace Corps is the continuation of service to our communities when we all come home. Today, because of the anniversary of the Peace Corps, thousands of returned volunteers are visiting schools and local communities throughout the United States, sharing the knowledge and insights gained from their experiences abroad and passing along the value of service to others. As we have learned around the world, the best way to support a democracy is to help development at the local level. Meanwhile, America's, young and old, single and married, would like to serve their country, humanity and democracy. The Peace Corps is one of the most effective mechanisms for uniting these two ideals. This is an asset we should not let go to waste. On this 40th anniversary of the Peace Corps, please join me in honoring all Volunteers, past, present, and future, and in celebrating four decades of service to the world. The Peace Corps has served its country well, and we should all be proud.

Mr. FARR of California

Mr. FARR of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise also with the gentleman from New York (Mr. Walsh) to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Peace Corps. It was founded on March 1, 1961 when President John F. Kennedy signed the legislation launching the Peace Corps. Since then, more than 162,000 Americans have served and returned to this United States, having served in 134 different countries. Six now serve in the House of Representatives, three Republicans and three Democrats: the gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. Petri), the gentleman from Connecticut (Mr. Shays), the gentleman from New York (Mr.Walsh), myself, the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Hall), and the gentleman from California (Mr. Honda). More than 67,000 volunteers are in the field today teaching in elementary schools, high schools and technical schools, building water systems and agricultural co-ops, teaching health care, and treating people in need. But, Mr. Speaker, we need to do more. The demand for the Peace Corps is at an all-time high. More host countries want volunteers. The interest in serving in this country is at an all-time high. In fact, only about one out of nine people that have shown interest have a space abroad, because Congress has not fully funded the Peace Corps. The goal was to have 10,000 volunteers in the field by 2000. We only have 7,000. We need to do a better job. Fully fund the Peace Corps. Mr. Speaker, it has been 38 years since I joined the Peace Corps, and I rise today to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Peace Corps. It was started on March 1, 1961, when President Kennedy signed the legislation launching the Peace Corps--establishing a bold and hopeful experiment to allow Volunteers to bring practical grassroots assistance to the people of developing nations to help them build a better life for themselves and their children. Forty years later, the Peace Corps has succeeded beyond everyone's expectations. Today there are more than 162,000 returned volunteers in the United States, six of whom serve in the House of Representatives and two in the United States Senate. They have served in 134 different nations, making significant and lasting contributions from Armenia and Bangladesh to Uzbekistan and Zimbabwe. There are more than 7,000 Volunteers that are now living and working overseas. They are addressing critical development needs on a person- to-person basis: working with teachers and parents to teach English, math and science; helping spread and gain access to clean water; to grow more food; to help prevent the spread of AIDS; to help entrepreneurs start new businesses; to train students to use computers; and to work with non-governmental organizations to protect our environment. Above all, Volunteers leave behind skills that allow individuals and communities to take charge of their own futures. In our increasingly interconnected global community, Peace Corps Volunteers also promote greater cross-cultural awareness, both in the countries in which they serve and when they return home. As they work shoulder to shoulder with their host communities, Volunteers embody and share some of America's most enduring values: freedom, opportunity, hope, progress. It is these bonds of friendship and understanding that they create that can build the foundations for peace among nations. And I can personally testify that the best service that is given to the Peace Corps is the continuation of service to our communities when we all come home. Today, because of the anniversary of the Peace Corps, thousands of returned Volunteers are visiting schools and local communities throughout the United States, sharing the knowledge and insights gained from their experiences abroad and passing along the value of services to others. As we have learned around the world, the best way to support a democracy is to help development at the local level. Meanwhile, America's young and old, single and married, would like to serve their country, humanity and democracy. The Peace Corps is one of the most effective mechanisms for uniting these two ideals. This is an asset we should not let go to waste. On this 40th anniversary of the Peace Corps, please join me in honoring all Volunteers, past, present, and future, and in celebrating their four decades of service to the world. The Peace Corps has served its country well, and we should all be proud.

Mr. FARR of California

Mr. FARR of California. Mr. Speaker, today I am proud to pay tribute to one of California's finest and most respected Senators, the late Alan Cranston. Alan Cranston was born in Palo Alto, California, on June 19, 1914. He studied at the University of Mexico and then continued at Stanford University. While he began his professional career as a news correspondent, the international events of that time led him to join the United States Army. At the conclusion of the Second World War, he left the Army to become President of the United World Federalists. This, along with his founding of the California Democratic Council, propelled him into the political spotlight. Other positions he held during his tenure at the Senate include Chairman of the Committee on Veteran Affairs, Chairman of the Gorbachev Foundation, President of the United States: Kyrgyz Business Council, and Senior International Advisor for Schooner Capitol Corporation. Those who know him and worked with him remember his modesty and true commitment towards making the world a safer one. Senator Cranston was honored with numerous awards for outstanding achievements in the field of world security, and for his efforts towards global peace. During his 24-year Senate career, Senator Cranston had a hand in developing and promoting some of the most influential legislative measures considered by Congress. His efforts to end the Vietnam War and to improve relations with the Soviet Union go unmatched. In addition, he helped shape the Senate opinion of the SALT II and START treaties. After leaving public office, Alan Cranston continued his fight to abolish nuclear weapons. He founded and acted as President of the Global Security Institute, enabling citizens to express their concerns about security issues. His expertise was frequently sought in treaty negotiation and nuclear arms control, and he published many works on these issues. Mr. Speaker, Alan Cranston did not seek attention for himself nor demanded honor, but he deserved it. He honored all living beings by serving to promote peace and prevent destruction. Please join me in remembering the respectable and truly remarkable man, Sen. Alan Cranston. I end with a quote that Senator Cranston carried in his wallet for years: A leader is best when people barely know he exists, less good when they obey and acclaim him, worse when they fear and despise him. Fail to honor people and they fail to honor you. But of a good leader, when his work is done, his aim fulfilled, they will all say, ``We did this ourselves.''

Mr. FARR of California

Mr. FARR of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a man who affected the lives of many during his career in public education and his community activities, Ralph Laird, Jr. Mr. Laird passed away on October 24 in Walnut Creek, California, after a long illness. Ralph Laird, Jr., was born in Danville, Illinois on March 23, 1924. He graduated from Danville High School in 1942, served in an Army unit under the overall command of General George Patton in World War II, and returned to the United States to attend the University of South Dakota under the G.I. Bill. Graduating in 1949, and later receiving his Masters Degree in Education from San Francisco State University, Mr. Laird was the only one of his brothers and sister to receive an education past the eighth grade. Mr. Laird worked for nineteen years at John Swett High School in Crockett, California. It was here that he began an incredible career in education working as a teacher, coach, Vice Principal and, for the last five years of his service there, as Principal. He was the coach of the 1959 championship John Swett basketball team, the first such championship for the school in decades, and also participated in community activities as a manager of an East Vallejo Little League team, camp director for the Vallejo YMCA, and a father in the Indian Guides program. Mr. Laird was the first principal of San Dimas High School in San Dimas, California, and later was principal of Amador High School in Pleasanton, California. He ended his career in education as Assistant Superintendent of the Amador School District, but remained active as a leader in the SIRS organization and was a member of the Pleasanton Library Board. In his life, he was committed to helping every person rise to their full potential. In all his school positions, he served as a mentor, worked extra hours, supported new teachers, and stayed in touch with many students with whom he had worked during his thirty-five years in education. His dedication to public service in its most pure form--the education and nurturing of our children--is an example for all of us to strive for. Beyond his professional life, Ralph Laird was also well known for his ability to tell a story or a joke on almost any subject. His obituary stated, ``He never met a pun he didn't like.'' He brightened any room he walked into, and was the patriarch of a wonderful family. He will be sorely missed not just by his community, but by his family--including his wife of 54 years, Dorothy; his sons, John, James and Thomas; and three grandchildren. All those touched by him during his life will miss his friendship, leadership, good humor, and guidance.

Mr. FARR of California

Mr. FARR of California. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding time to me. Mr. Speaker, we are all here in absolute shock of this news that is less than a half-hour old that our colleague, Julian Dixon, died. Julian was such a presence around here. When we think that this body operates with people who are in key positions, positions of incredible respect and importance, serving on the Committee on Standards of Official Conduct and his role on the Committee on Appropriations, and many of us recall that in that role, it was pointed out by his colleague and friend, the gentleman from California (Mr. Stark), that when he was Chair of the Subcommittee on the District of Columbia of the Committee on Appropriations he was like the ad hoc mayor of Washington, D.C., because he had a passion for this city and for it being the Nation's Capitol. I want to share with the Members just a moment, I was a young staffer in the California State legislature when Julian Dixon became elected. He was a magnificent human being: tall, handsome, smart. He was elected as caucus chair, Democratic Caucus chair in the California State legislature, and had incredible respect. Obviously, when a seat opened here in Congress, he was a natural to run for that seat, win, and serve in Congress with distinction. We are at a loss because we sometimes know that people are ill or in the hospital, but it is a shock when we learn that immediately someone is gone, and particularly those of us from California, if we look at the very short time in the last few years that we lost George Brown, we lost Sonny Bono, we lost Walter Capps. We have had an incredible loss of California Members of Congress. Julian was a champion among them all. I am chair of the delegation, and some people are already going back to California, and I am sure they will hear on the airplane or the minute they get off, and we will share this shock of great loss, not only to the State of California, to his family, but to this Nation.

Mr. FARR of California

Mr. FARR of California. Mr. Speaker, I wish today in great admiration to extend my congratulations and to recognize one of my constituents for her accomplishments at the XIth Paralympaid in Sydney, Australia. Jennifer Barrett of Gonzales, California was selected to represent the United States at the games which took place October 18-29 of this year. The Paralympaid is a multi-disability sports competition at the most elite level of competition. Ms. Barrett not only qualified for the U.S. team, but came away with a silver and a bronze medal in the women's discus and shot put, respectively. Jennifer's distance in the shot put was a personal best at 9.97 meters. Miss Barrett has won every major field competition available to amputees, and holds the prestigious world record for discus and the U.S. national record for shot put. Her athletic prowess has been notable since her win at the 1996 Atlanta Paralympic Games. It was at that game when Jennifer set the then-world record, and won a bronze in the shot put resulting in the current U.S. record. She continued with determination and skill, and in 1998 at the IPC World Championship won gold medals in both discus and shot put. While earning her Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies at the Sonoma State University, Jennifer competed in throwing events with able-bodied athletes on the track and field team. She also holds an A.A. in general studies from Hartnell Junior College. Not only has Ms. Barrett excelled on the athletic field, but she is a published poet. Jennifer's plans for the future are as commendable as her accomplishments in track and field. She plans to teach third grade with an emphasis on disability awareness in the classroom. In addition to her educational career goals, she also plans on working in prosthetics, coaching field events and ``becoming a reading specialist.'' I believe her goals for the future will inspire young people the way she has been an inspiration to Gonzales and the Central Coast of California. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in commemorating Jennifer Barrett for her outstanding achievements in the United States Olympic community. May she continue to excel.