George Radanovich

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor President Ronald Reagan on his 92nd Birthday. He is a great man and was a wonderful president. President Reagan stimulated economic growth, curbed inflation, increased employment, and strengthened our national defense. He cut taxes and government expenditures. It was during his term in office as President, the United States enjoyed its longest recorded period of peacetime prosperity without recession or depression. President Reagan sought to increase defense spending, but also wanted to improve relations with the Soviet Union. Overall, the Reagan years saw a restoration of prosperity, and the goal of peace through strength seemed to be within grasp. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor President Reagan and wish him a Happy 92nd Birthday. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing President Reagan more years of good health.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember a resident of my district who has made an impact on me, my staff, as well as the city of Fresno. His name was John Ferdinandi, Jr. John was born in Rochester, NY, the son of Italian Immigrants. In 1945, he and his family moved to Fresno, CA where John attended San Joaquin Memorial High School, Fresno City College, and California State University, Fresno, then known as Fresno State. He served for four years in the Air Force and married his wife Sally in 1952. He returned to Fresno in 1954. After thirty years of family and individual business, John retired, but found retirement wasn't his strong suit. He began a new career as a Property Manager and worked from 1989 to 1999, where his last assignment was in Santa Cruz, CA. John retired again in 1999, when he and his wife, Sally, decided to return home to Fresno where their children and family live. In September 1999, when a seven freight car derailment occurred on the Burlington Northern Santa Fe tracks near the west end of Browning, John took up the challenge to get those tracks moved, which had been talked about for 83 years. John put together a Board of Directors of community residents, secured over 42 supporting agencies, political representatives, businesses, individuals and petitioners now totaling over 6,000 supporters of rail consolidation. On January 14th, 2002, Fresno Mayor Alan Autry appointed John to head up his Mayor's Fresno Rail Consolidation Task Force. The Fresno County Board of Supervisors appointed John to be the county's representative on the Fresno County Council of Governments Rail Committee. John also was Chairman of the Mayor's Downtown Revitalization 3RC Committee (Research, Review & Recommendation). He was working to revitalize Downtown Fresno. John was a loving man who liked to help out at church, enjoyed playing charades, loved to sail and collect lighthouse replicas. He enjoyed fragrant flowers and high school father-daughter dances. Additionally, my staff and I had the pleasure of working with John's granddaughter, Sadie, for four years. John passed away of cancer on January 26, 2003. He will be sorely missed. Mr. Speaker, I rise to remember John Ferdinandi and all of his efforts working on the Fresno Area Rail Consolidation. I urge my colleagues to join me in remembering John Ferdinandi.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I submitted the Yosemite National Park Education Improvement Act in the House of Representatives. The bill authorizes the Secretary of Interior to make available supplemental funding to assist local school districts in providing educational services for students attending three schools located within Yosemite National Park. Since the devastating 1997 Merced River flood, there has been a dramatic reduction in the number of employees in Yosemite National Park, and thus fewer school children attending these schools. With fewer and fewer children attending these schools, state dollars are reduced. The result is that the Park is attracting less than qualified candidates to work in the Park because families are not provided with adequate schools. Furthermore, other existing federal funding sources are inadequate to meet the needs of the schools. PILT, payment in lieu of taxes, is available in both Mariposa and Madera counties where these schools exist and Impact Aid is accessible in Madera County, but--pursuant to current law--very few dollars actually are used to fund the classroom needs. The situation is so bad for the schools that both the Superintendent of Yosemite National Park and the President of the Park concessionaire have pulled their children from the schools. Mr. Speaker, I don't think we should stand by and permit children of Park Service and concessionaire employees from being deprived of their education simply because their parents have been asked by our government to work in Yosemite National Park. Precedence for assistance to schools located in national parks does exist. Yellowstone National Park had such a program established in the 1940's to ensure children of Park employees receive a quality education. In addition to the language for Yosemite schools, the bill includes a provision to authorize the Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System, YARTS, facility outside of Yosemite National Park. This noncontroversial provision was added to the bill last Congress prior to passage in the in the Senate. In closing, I believe the best long-term approach to the Yosemite schools' funding problems is the legislation I have proposed. The bill was approved by this body during the 107th Congress, and I look forward to working with my colleagues in the 108th Congress to once again approve the measure.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Robert G. Mondavi on the occasion of his being distinguished as an Honorary Member of the Agricultural Leadership Alumni. The award will be bestowed upon Mr. Mondavi at the annual conference of this organization. Selection for this distinction is ``reserved for special individuals who have, over a period of time, demonstrated consistent commitment and uncommon excellence in the furtherance of education and leadership in California agriculture.'' Robert was born in Virginia, Minnesota to parents who emigrated from the Marche region of Italy. He is a graduate of Stanford University with a degree in economics and business administration. Upon graduation, Robert joined his father at Sunnyhill Winery in St. Helena and later at Charles Krug, where he upgraded the technology of the family enterprise, determined to raise quality. Later Mr. Mondavi established the first post-Prohibition major winery built in the Napa Valley. Robert also pioneered many of the fine winemaking techniques in California, including cold fermentation, stainless steel tanks, and the use of French oak barrels. Mr. Mondavi received the World Trade Club's ``International Achievement Award'' for being a leading pioneer in the exportation of Premium California wine and being among the first to have a publicly traded company. He has also been honored with the first-ever ``California State Fair Lifetime Achievement Award,'' the Wine Spectator's first ``Readers' Choice Award'' as ``The Person Who Has Done the Most to Enhance Wine's Image,'' and the ``Business Leader of the Year'' award from the Harvard Business School Association of Northern California. In 2002, Robert was honored by the California State Assembly as ``the global emissary of American food and wine'' for lifetime achievements on behalf of California wine, food, and arts. Mr. Mondavi is recognized as the global emissary of American food and wine. His vision was to create wines in California that belong in the company of great wines of the world. Having successfully achieved this goal, his wisdom as founder and Chairman Emeritus of Robert Mondavi now guides his sons and daughter in their leadership of the Robert Mondavi family of wines. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Robert G. Mondavi as an Honorary Member of the Agricultural Leadership Alumni. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Robert Mondavi many years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Margrit Biever Mondavi on the occasion of her being distinguished as an Honorary Member of the Agricultural Leadership Alumni. The award will be bestowed upon Mrs. Mondavi at the annual conference of this organization. Selection for this distinction is ``reserved for special individuals who have, over a period of time, demonstrated consistent commitment and uncommon excellence in the furtherance of education and leadership in California agriculture.'' Mrs. Mondavi is a native of Appenzell, Switzerland and was raised in her family home in the canton of Ticino. Margrit studied art at Minusio, an art school in Switzerland, under a professor who had been a student of Hans Hoffman. In 1967, Margrit joined the Robert Mondavi Winery and pursued her life-long interest in uniting wine with fine arts, music, and culinary artistry. Mrs. Mondavi founded the winery's popular Summer Music Festival in 1969 as a benefit for the Napa Valley Symphony. She and a small group of other dedicated Napa Valley art lovers formed a board of directors to rebuild the original 19th-century opera house in the city of Napa. In 1998, the opera raised significant funds for the restoration as part of a challenge grant from Margrit and Robert G. Mondavi. Mrs. Mondavi introduced a program of cooking classes to develop guests' appreciation of great food paired with fine wine, as well as the Great Chefs of France and the Great Chefs of America programs. She and Robert also recently made a substantial personal gift to the University of California at Davis to establish the Robert Mondavi Institute for Wine and Food Science and to launch The Robert and Margrit Mondavi Center for the Performing Arts opened in October 2002. The couple work together as founding patrons of Copia: The American Center for Wine, Food, and the Arts. Margrit was also instrumental in securing the downtown Napa location for the center. Margrit has applied her talent to commercial design and has now created a line of home accessory designs exclusively for the Robert Mondavi Winery. She has been married to Robert Mondavi since 1980. An accomplished linguist, Margrit often translates her husband's speeches for international audiences. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Margrit Biever Mondavi as an Honorary Member of the Agricultural Leadership Alumni. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Margrit Biever Mondavi many years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Pete Mehas, Superintendent of Fresno County Schools. He will be honored by the United Cerebral Palsy of Central California on January 25, 2003. During his tenure as Superintendent, Dr. Mehas has initiated and enhanced school programs throughout Fresno County for persons with disabilities. A Fresno native, Dr. Mehas attended Fresno City College, and went on to receive his bachelor's degree from Fresno State in 1962, his master's degree from UCLA in 1967, and his Doctorate in Education from the University of Southern California in 1979. He began his professional career as an instructor at Roosevelt High School, then taught at Edison High School, and then signed on with the Clovis Unified School District and worked his way up to Associate Superintendent. Dr. Mehas served as a legislative advocate for schools, which eventually led to a series of statewide educational and legislative appointments by then Governor of California, George Deukmejian. In 1987, he was appointed by the Governor to the State Board of Education. Among his many accomplishments, Dr. Mehas has participated in a series of Presidential summits on education and the future of American youth. In 1991, Dr. Mehas was appointed by President George bush to a seventeen member advisory commission to implement the President's Executive Order on Latino education. Dr. Mehas holds a lifetime California Standard Secondary Teaching Credential and a General Elementary Credential, as well as, a lifetime School Service Credential in General Administration. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Peter Mehas for his many years of service to the community. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Dr. Mehas many years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Patty Mandrell, the outgoing President of the Chowchilla District Chamber of Commerce. The Chowchilla District Chamber of Commerce honored her at an Installation and Awards Banquet on January 18, 2003 in Chowchilla, California. Born in Madera, California, Patty grew up in Dos Palos before becoming a resident of Chowchilla. Patty is very enthusiastic about writing, reading, and people, which makes her a key component in the community. Her interest in journalism led her to a part-time position at the Chowchilla News newspaper, where she later become Editor and is currently the Managing Editor. Patty has been highly active in her community. She has served on the Central California Women's Facility/Valley State Prison for Women Citizen's Advisory and Drug Advisory Committees. Patty also sat as a Charter Board member for the Police Activities League. The honors that she has received vary from the Golden Apple Award in 1999, the Outstanding Citizen Award from the Fresno and Madera Counties Police Chiefs Association in 2000, and the Rotary Distinguished Public Service Award in 2002. Patty and her husband of 34 years, Lyndon Mandrell, have two daughters Tricia and Stacy. To quote Patty, ``God is my best friend; my Mom has always been my role model and I've never been ashamed of being my Daddy's girl.'' Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Patty Mandrell as the outgoing President of the Chowchilla District Chamber of Commerce and a true support of the Chowchilla community. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Patty Mandrell many years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Bill Jones for 20 years of outstanding leadership and service to the State of California. A tribute was held in his honor on January 12, 2003, in Fresno, CA. Proceeds from the tribute will fund the Bill Jones Leadership Development Program in the College of Agricultural Sciences and Technology at California State University, Fresno. In 1971, Bill Jones graduated from California State University, Fresno with a degree in agriculture business. Bill, who grew up on a farm on Mendota, CA, began his elected career by serving in the State Assembly for 12 years. While there, he coauthored the ``Three Strikes and You're Out'' anticrime law. He was elected Secretary of State in 1994 and re-elected in 1998. As the State's chief elections officer, Mr. Jones set a goal of 100-percent voter participation with zero tolerance for fraud. His voter outreach programs targeted California's minorities and young people. Bill Jones is a nationally recognized leader of agriculture, trade, and water issues as well. The Bill Jones Leadership Development Program will provide an educational opportunity for individuals to develop their leadership skills. The program will focus on undergraduate students while providing them service opportunities. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to identify key elements of their personal leadership style, have a working knowledge of relational leadership theory, and understand the role leadership plays in organizations and communities. This program honors Bill Jones, who himself played an important leadership role while at California State University, Fresno. Bill and his wife, Maurine, have two daughters Wendy and Andrea. Mr. Jones is a native California rancher who continues to work his family- owned farm in Fresno, and is the first resident from the Central San Joaquin Valley to serve in a statewide office. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate and thank Bill Jones for his dedication to and hard work on behalf of the people of California. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Mr. Jones many years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, to provide full funding for the payment in lieu of taxes program for the next five fiscal years, to protect local jurisdictions against the loss of property tax revenues when private lands are acquired by a Federal land management agency, and for other purposes. in the house of representatives Mr. Radanovich introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Resources, and in addition to the Committee on Agriculture, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, to facilitate a Forest Service land exchange that will eliminate a private in-holding in the Sierra National Forest in the State of California and provide for the permanent enjoyment by the Boy Scouts of America of a parcel of National Forest System land currently used under a special use permit, and for other purposes. in the house of representatives Mr. RADANOVICH (for himself, Mr. Nunes and Mr. Dooley) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Resources

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the J.S. West family for receiving the 2002 Agricultural Hall of Fame Inductee Award at the Stanislaus County Ag Foundation's Agricultural Hall of Fame Ceremony in Modesto, California on December 5, 2002. This notable group of Stanislaus County Legends of Agriculture honors individuals and families who have worked to make agriculture the county's number one industry. The Agricultural Hall of Fame members sacrifice and labor to produce crops from poultry and livestock to fruits and vegetables. These members and their families have made a mark on the Central Valley's local agricultural industry and community, as well as influenced the state, nation, and the world. In 1909, J.S. West and Company began with the purchase of the Merced Milling building and a lease of land from the Southern Pacific Railroad in Modesto, California. James West worked with farmers on yearly contracts and sold sacked grain to brokers and customers. As the business grew, the family diversified into coal, wood, and fertilizers. After a fire destroyed the feed mill in the 1950's, a modern feed mill was built to supply feed to the poultry and cattle industry. This resulted in a full line of retail stores that are now carrying their supplies. The J.S. West family expanded upon their enterprise by making ice, selling fuel oil, operating an automobile service station and tire shop, and they recently closed a furniture store which they had operated since 1950. The family also developed an egg contracting business in the 1950's, and today its members are still heavily involved in the poultry and egg industry at both state and national levels. The West family packs eggs for over sixty labels and frozen liquid eggs in their Hilmar processing plant. From feed to eggs and ice to propane, the West family continues to make a difference in the agricultural industry worldwide. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the J.S. West family for earning the 2002 Agricultural Hall of Fame Inductee Award. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing the J.S. West family many years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Patti Reilly upon her retirement as Mariposa County District I Supervisor. Patti Reilly has shown her dedication to the citizens of Mariposa and District I through years of active involvement and leadership. Patti Reilly has demonstrated her community involvement through her years of service on numerous projects, boards and commissions. She was first elected to the Mariposa County Board of Supervisors in 1994 and reelected for her second term in 1998, serving as Chair the same year. On the board she served as liaison member to the Fiscal and Education Services, the Health and Human Service areas, and on Yosemite Park issues. Patti Reilly has helped shape the future of Mariposa by serving on the Planning Commission and acting as Chair of both the Local Transportation Commission and the Housing Authority of the County of Mariposa. She has championed economic development, education, justice, and youth development. Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate Patti Reilly for her years of service to Mariposa and for her distinguished community involvement. I invite my colleagues to join me in wishing Patti Reilly many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Dave McDonald upon his receipt of Central Valley Muscular Dystrophy Association's ``Humanitarian of the Year'' award in Fresno, California on November 7, 2002. Mr. McDonald is being recognized for his leadership, humanitarian efforts, and dedication to the community. Mr. McDonald is the President and CEO of PELCO, the world's largest producer of video security systems, as well as Central California's largest manufacturing employer. PELCO produces 3,500 different products which are sold through 5,000 authorized dealers in the United States and abroad. Since its beginning, the company has gown thirty-fold under Mr. McDonald's supervision. Following the disastrous events of September 11, 2001, Mr. McDonald and PELCO assisted the NYPD in its recovery efforts at the World Trade Center site by donating specialized camera equipment and personnel. Additionally, the company's warehouse in Orangeburg, New York was converted into a distribution center for relief supplies. In November of 2001, PELCO created the California Memorial in Clovis as a permanent tribute to the victims and fallen heroes from September 11. The memorial contains hundreds of items donated by the city of New York in remembrance of the events of September 11. In March of 2002, Mr. McDonald was honored by the New York City Fire Department as the Grand Marshall for the St. Patrick's Day Parade. In May of 2002, Mr. McDonald also received the Excellence in Business Award for the Fresno Hall of Fame in recognition of his dedication to local businesses and his community. Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate Dave McDonald for his contributions to the many people in need, not only locally but nationally as well. I urge my colleagues to Join me in wishing Dave McDonald many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Mariposa County District III Supervisor Robert ``Bob'' Stewart for his years of dedicated service to the community. Bob has shown his commitment to the community through a career of public service. He is a veteran who served on the California Highway Patrol for twenty-eight years, protecting Mariposa County for twenty. As an elected official, Bob continued supporting emergency responders by advocating newer equipment for public safety employees and volunteer fire departments. Bob was first elected to the Mariposa County Board of Supervisors in 1994 and reelected for his second term in 1998, serving as Chair in 1997 and 2002. He acted as Board liaison member to the General Government and the Health and Human Services areas. Bob's contributions to the community spread beyond the numerous County projects he has chaired. For the last twenty years he has also served as deacon to the First Baptist Church of Mariposa. In all of his varied activities, Bob is known foremost for his honesty and integrity. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Bob Stewart for his active and dedicated community involvement. I urge my colleagues to join me in thanking Bob and wishing him many more years of success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Jack Stone for receiving the 2002 Agriculturist of the Year Award at the Greater Fresno Area Chamber of Commerce Awards Luncheon in Fresno, California on November 13, 2002. This lifetime achievement award is given annually to an individual who exemplifies leadership and integrity in the Central Valley's agricultural business community. Jack Stone graduated from the University of California, Davis. In 1940, he began farming and later sold his farm in order to serve his country for four years as a Captain in the Army Corps of Engineers. In 1946, Jack began to farm again on undeveloped Central Valley land and then organized the J.G. Stone Land Company two years later. Jack has served as President of the Westlands Water District, the National Cotton Council, the Western Cotton Growers Association, and formerly served as chairman of the Producers Steering Committee of the National Cotton Council. He currently serves as a California Farm Water Coalition Board Member. Jack is a second-generation farmer specializing in cotton, grains, and a half dozen other field crops on 6,000 acres in the Stratford and Lemoore areas in Central California. He has always worked for the interests of young farmers by supporting the development of the agriculture program at Coalinga's West Hills College, and by being a steadfast supporter of the cotton program and judging contests at the California State University, Fresno campus. Jack has also consistently fought for development of an adequate, reliable, and affordable water supply for California. Today, much of J.G. Stone Land Company's daily activities are run by Jack's son, Bill, and his grandchildren, though Jack remains the patriarch of the four-generation farming operation. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Jack Stone for earning the 2002 Agriculturist of the Year Award. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Jack Stone many years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate P-R Farms of Clovis, California, for receiving the 2002 Baker, Peterson, and Franklin Agriculture Business of the Year Award at the Greater Fresno Area Chamber of Commerce Awards Luncheon in Fresno, California on November 13, 2002. This annual award is given to an agricultural organization whose achievements and impact have significantly contributed to the industry and the local community. Vincenzo Bicchiuti, father of the founder of P-R Farms, arrived in America as an immigrant in 1914 and planted the seeds of a small family business in grapes and figs. Benefiting from his father's wisdom, Pat Ricchiuti learned that diversification would be the key to long-term success. Pat and his wife, Frances, began to plant plums and cotton which was the beginning of their farm's expansion. The goal for the newly-founded P-R Farms was growth while maintaining quality at every juncture. Today, the philosophy and dedication of father and son is continued by grandson, Patrick Ricchiuti. Known worldwide for premium quality and excellence, P-R Farms' products are locally grown, packed, and shipped from their production facility in Clovis, California. P-R Farms has been an innovator in agriculture, developing many new techniques in Ag production, shipping, storage, and marketing. The Ricchiuti family has been active in leading California State University, Fresno's Ag One Foundation, College of Agricultural Sciences, and Technology, Alumni Association, and Bulldog Foundation. They developed fundraising programs for Clovis schools, and have served on the governing board of the Clovis School District. In addition to agriculture and education, the Ricchiutis have been very involved in local healthcare serving on boards and councils for both Central California Children's Hospital and Clovis Community Hospital. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate P-R Farms for earning the 2002 Baker, Peterson, and Franklin Agriculture Business of the Year Award. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing P-R Farms many years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Dr. Pete Mehas for receiving the Distinguished Alumnus Award at the Fresno State Alumni Awards Gala in Fresno, California on the evening of November 8, 2002. This award is the highest honor given to an alumnus of the university. The Distinguished Alumnus Award is based on scholarship, leadership, and service to the University, the San Joaquin Valley, and the State of California. It has been established to provide special recognition to an individual who has distinguished himself through outstanding achievement during his post-collegiate career. Nominees must have received national or international recognition, as well as made a significant contribution through volunteer or donor work to the University, the Valley, and the State. In 1962, Pete Mehas received his bachelor's degree from California State University, Fresno, his master's degree from UCLA in 1967, and his doctorate in education from the University of Southern California in 1979. He began his teaching profession at Roosevelt High School and later became a legislative advocate in Sacramento and Washington DC. In 1987, Dr. Mehas was appointed by Governor George Deukmejian as his Chief Advisor on matters relating to all public education in the state, as well as serving as the Director of the Governor's Office of Education Planning and Policy Committee. In September 1991, President Bush appointed Dr. Mehas to a 17-member advisory commission to implement his executive order on Latino education. Dr. Pete Mehas was elected Fresno County Superintendent of School in June 1990, and has had unanimous endorsement from Fresno area Republican and Democratic legislators during his three elections since. Dr. Mehas currently serves on the Fresno Compact Executive Board, Fresno State's President's Education Commission and Dean of Education Advisory Committee, and the UC Advisory Board. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Dr. Pete Mehas for earning the 2002 Distinguished Alumnus Award. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Dr. Pete Mehas more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Koehler family for their loyalty and exemplary dedication to the United States Armed Forces over the past 50 years. The Koehler family has exemplified heroism throughout the years through their service during World War I, World War II, and the Korean War. Mr. David Koehler was the father of fourteen children, eleven of them sons; eight of which served in the United States Armed Forces. Mr. Koehler began his career with the United States Army and served in World War I. The Koehler brothers began enlisting in the Armed Forces in 1941. Chris, Jacob, Adam, John, and brother-in-law Rodger Schuester, served in the United States Navy during the World War II. William served in the United States National Guard and Army during World War II. During the Korean War, Henry and Edward joined the United States Air Force, and Sam followed in his father's footsteps by enlisting in the United States Army. The Koehler family's time in the service demonstrates their commitment to our country. The contributions the Koehler family made during our times of war and peace have gone above and beyond the normal call of duty. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the Koehler family for their patriotism and heroic efforts to keep our nation great and free. I urge my colleagues to join me in expressing deep gratitude to the Koehler family.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Christine Haas of Clovis, California for being named ``America's top Young Scientist'' in the 2002 Discovery Channel's Young Scientist Challenge. Christine won the nationwide middle school science competition for her botany and zoology project. On August 17, 1998, Christine Haas was discovered at Reyburn Intermediate School with her science project by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Lincoln Laboratory's Near-Earth Asteroid Research (LINEAR) program. Christine, now a Clovis East High School student, received the honor of having a minor planet named after her for her achievements. She also earned a $15,000 college scholarship, a Hollywood Studio tour, and a television appearance in an hour-long program that will air in late December 2002. Christine's project investigated the use of buckeye blossoms as a means of controlling mosquitoes. She determined that the buckeye plant's natural poisons deterred mosquito development in Wonder Valley's vernal pools. This project was ideal for Christine because Wonder Valley has too many mosquitoes, and it also has livestock owners leery of spraying pesticides around water. Christine's selection for his award shows her determination and ingenuity which is reflected through this project. She is to be admired and congratulated on her efforts. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Christine Haas for her scientific achievement. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Christine Haas many years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate California Citrus Mutual as they celebrate their 25th anniversary. In 1977, California Citrus Mutual, a nonprofit grower-based trade association, was envisioned by a group of citrus growers in order to form an organization for the expressed purpose of providing information, education, and advocacy to enhance per acre revenues for industry producers. Over the last quarter century, California Citrus Mutual has grown to become a respected voice within the citrus industry and a persuasive advocate for growers on local, state, and federal issues. Their advocacy in state and federal government is second to none in the citrus industry and ranks with larger organizations in the fresh fruit and vegetable industry around the state and country. Successful issue management has become the cornerstone for California Citrus Mutual's continued growth. Under the innovative leadership of President Joel Nelsen, California Citrus Mutual has overcome such challenges as catastrophic freezes, trade issues, pest exclusion activities, US-EPA directives, and Crop Insurance concerns. Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate California Citrus Mutual on their 25th Anniversary. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing them many more years of success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an outstanding teacher who has exemplified the ideal of assuring that ``No Child is Left Behind.'' Karen Ostdiek, a second grade teacher at St. Anthony's school in Fresno, California, went above and beyond the call of duty for Hunter Jameson, a student in her class, when he was diagnosed with cancer in early September 2001. Hunter's parents, Mike and Catherine Jameson, and St. Anthony's principal, Shawn Carey, credit Ms. Ostdiek with keeping Hunter up to date with his work even though he was out of the classroom for the majority of the school year. Thanks to Karen's extra effort and commitment to her students, Hunter will be able to go on to third grade in the fall. Karen made sure Hunter was included in all classroom activities, posting his work in the classroom alongside the other students' and delivering him personal pizzas when the class earned a party. Hunter was able to return to school on May 6 and was warmly greeted by his fellow second-graders in Ms. Ostdiek's class. Karen was awarded an Angel on Earth award, for her work with Hunter, at a teacher appreciation luncheon. The praise is well deserved, although she does not see that she has done anything special, just her job. Her humility only serves to underline why Karen is so deserving of the appreciation and honor she has received. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Karen Ostdiek for her dedication to the education of our young people and her commitment to excellence. I invite my colleagues to join me in thanking Karen for her outstanding service and compassionate response to Hunter Jameson and his family.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Fresno Area Taiwanese Association on the occasion of celebrating the 91st Anniversary of the National Day of the Republic of China on Taiwan. The Fresno Area Taiwanese Association will be holding a flag raising ceremony in the Peace Garden at California State University, Fresno at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, October 13th to commemorate this day. In 1911, the Wuchang Uprising brought an end to dynastic rule in China and led to the reestablishment of the first republic in Asia. Dr. Sun Yat-Sen was the leader of this uprising and helped to found this new nation. Today, the people of Taiwan and throughout the nation celebrate this historic event with as much fervor as they had on the day of the uprising. Since its establishment, the Republic of China has made countless contributions to the world especially in the areas of economic and social development, science, and technology. Today, Taiwan continues to be one of the cornerstone democracies in Southwest Asia and I will certainly continue to support this thriving country. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to congratulate the Fresno Area Taiwanese Association on the occasion of the 91st National Day of the Republic of China on Taiwan. The cultural richness of Fresno is a direct result of an active and involved Chinese community and this has helped to strengthen and enhance the relationships in our Valley. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing the Fresno Area of Taiwanese Association many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dave Mihalic, a true leader in the National Park Service, as he approaches his January 3, 2003 retirement. Dave Mihalic has served 33 years protecting and managing America's National Parks. His career with the Park Service ends at the helm of our nation's crown jewel, Yosemite National Park. As superintendent of Yosemite, Dave proved his strength and fairness in implementing a long- stalled management plan. Yosemite holds a dear place in my heart and I want to thank Dave for both his friendship and leadership in the park. Dave was a seasoned leader even before Yosemite. He served as the assistant superintendent of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina and Tennessee, and superintendent of Glacier National Park in Montana, Mammoth Cave National Parka in Kentucky and Yukon- Charley National Preserve in Alaska. Among his many management accomplishments, Dave established crucial community relationships and park partnerships, earning him two ``Superintendent of the Year Awards'' and a reputation as a leader who gets things done. In addition to running several of our National Parks, Dave also helped here in Washington, DC, when he worked as Chief of Policy in the Department of the Interior. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dave Mihalic for his vision and unending pursuit of National Park protection. I invite my colleagues to join me in thanking him for his many contributions to our National Lands and wishing him and his family continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Joseph Edward Gallo and his family for their major contribution to the University of California, Merced. The family's presentation of a $2 million gift to the campus will lead to the naming of the new recreation and wellness facility as the Joseph Edward Gallo Recreation and Wellness Center. UC Merced Chancellor Carol Tomlinson-Keasey announced the name of the facility in recognition of the endowment and Joseph Gallo's legacy of leadership. Planned as an innovative, state-of-the-art facility, the Joseph Edward Gallo Recreation and Wellness Center will be a blending of wellness services and recreational activities in one central location. The goal is to encourage collaboration, joint programming, and the synergies that would naturally come from a focus on athletic and health-related issues. A living legend in California's dairy industry, Joseph Gallo, founder of Atwater-based Joseph Gallo Farms, began his lifelong devotion to agriculture as a child working in the Gallo family vineyards. He first began his own business 56 years ago, when he acquired and started developing land to grow grapes, later diversifying into other crops and raising heifers. Launched in 1979 with 4,000 cows, the Joseph Gallo dairy has grown to more than 37,000 head of cattle on five dairies. Successful Farming magazine cited Joseph Gallo Farms as the nation's largest dairy farm in 1995. Among the other honors Joseph Gallo Farms has received are the Baker, Peterson, and Franklin Agri-Business of the Year and the Fresno Bee Central California Excellence in Business for Agriculture award. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Joseph Edward Gallo and his family for their continued dedication to improving the Central Valley. I urge my colleagues to join me in thanking Joseph Gallo and his family for their outstanding service to the community and wishing them continued success in all future endeavors.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Marlene M. Fansler for her dedication and service as President of the Fansler Foundation in Fresno, California. Marlene Fansler will be honored at the Break the Barriers Annual Fundraising Dinner on the evening of September 28, 2002. Marlene Malan Fansler was born in South Gate, California. As a toddler, Marlene moved to Fresno with her parents, Howard and Erma Malan, where her father began his dental practice. In 1957, Marlene graduated from Fresno High School and went on to receive her Liberal Arts Degree from Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah. After marrying a fellow Brigham Young graduate, Marlene taught elementary school in Houston, Texas for a short period. She and her husband later resided in Portland, Oregon where they raised their three children. In 1968, Marlene and her children moved back to Fresno to be near her parents. Marlene not only brought her teaching skills to Fresno, but also the creative and managerial abilities she learned while developing a ‘stretch and sew’ knit fabric business. She started a shop in Fresno's Manchester Mall called Kopi Kat Knits, where she met D. Paul Fansler in late 1969. They married in 1976 after a six-year courtship. Marlene spent the next 14 years raising the children, helping her husband with the development of Piccadilly Inn Hotels, and continuing her activities as a member and teacher in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. The combined families now total eight children, sixteen grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Paul Fansler began the Fansler Foundation in 1984, to be supportive of local, worthwhile, legitimate, charitable, and civic endeavors with focus on developmentally challenged young people. After Paul's unexpected death in 1990, Marlene took over the Piccadilly Inn Hotels and the Fansler Foundation. Marlene is currently a member of the California State University of Fresno Kremen School of Education Community Council, Board of Pathways, a Foundation for UCP of Central California, Catholic Diocese of Fresno, and the Marjaree Mason Center Art Auction Committee. Under Marlene Fansler's leadership, the Fansler Foundation has funded over 30 organizations, including Break the Barriers. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Marlene M. Fansler for her commitment and devotion to the people and organizations in which she serves. I urge my colleagues to join me in thanking her for her community service and wishing her many years of continued success.