George Radanovich

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Fresno Center for New Americans (FCNA) on their 10 year anniversary. Their work makes a critical difference in the community and the lives of many new Americans. The Fresno Center for New Americans is a non-profit organization that assists new Americans in becoming productive, self-fulfilled, and self- sufficient members of the community. They also foster cultural preservation and promote cross-cultural understanding. FCNA was established in 1991 as a non-profit organization. The organization addresses a wide variety of social issues, including health education, employment assistance and placement, and acculturation services. FCNA's vision is to act as a resource to refugees and new Americans, and to contribute to their quality of life. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Fresno Center for New Americans for helping new citizens become productive members of our society. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing the Fresno Center for New Americans many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor John Diener for receiving the Award of Distinction from the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences at the University of California, Davis. The award is the highest designation given by the college to individuals whose contributions enrich the image and reputation of the college and enhance its ability to provide public service. Diener earned a degree in agricultural economics in 1974. He worked as a pest control advisor, specializing in viticulture, for six years before beginning a farm operation in 1980. In 20 years his farm grew from 640 acres to 4,500 acres. He began organic production practices and helped develop Greenway Organic Farms. Diener has supported research and started field studies on reclaiming farmland that suffers from high underground water tables. This sort of research has set the foundation for growers to grow crops on acreage considered too salty. The success of his new farming methods can be seen by the abundant harvesting of crops on land that had previously been considered non-fertile soil. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate John Diener on his Award of Distinction. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating John and wishing him many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Armenian Community School of Fresno on celebrating their 24th year of existence at their annual banquet. The Armenian Community School of Fresno was opened with 24 students on September 12, 1977. This was the first community-wide Armenian day school in Fresno. Through generous donations from the Hovannissian and Sahatdjian Families, as well as other individuals and organizations, the school was able to move from the Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church Sunday School room to its present location on September 8, 1980. The essence of the Armenian Community School is to emphasize serious study, to educate on social responsibility, and to lay the foundation for strong, healthy, moral, ethical, and spiritual values. The student body has grown to over 120 students. Many features have been added to the education program such as the Fresno County Science Fair, Outdoor Education Camps, a solid Physical Education program, and a Student Council. The students receive a bilingual curriculum, which helps them become model Armenian-American citizens with a strong appreciation and knowledge of their heritage and culture. Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate the Armenian Community School of Fresno on the occasion of their 24th year anniversary. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing the Armenian Community School of Fresno many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate and honor Paul Besselievre, the recently retired C.E.O./Owner of Valley Trane, who was recently featured in an Executive Profile for the Fresno Business Journal newspaper. The question and answer Executive Profile, printed in the Fresno Business Journal on February 26, 2001, reads as follows: Q. What is the best thing about your job? A. Dealing with professionals within the company and the community. Q. What is the worst thing about your job? A. Those 7 a.m. meetings. Q. What is your best professional accomplishment? A. Training many young engineers and other professionals to be successful in the industry, and hopefully, in life. Q. If you could effect any change in the business community, what would it be? A. To get back to doing business with a handshake, where a man's word is his bond, and lawyers are used mostly to write your will. Q. What is your best personal accomplishment? A. My wife of 39 years is still my sweetheart. Every Friday is date night. And we still make out. Q. What is a good yardstick of success? A. Good friends and a family that loves you. Q. Best decision? A. I asked Carol Poljansek to marry me. Q. Worst decision? A. To skate across Bear Butte Lake before the ice was thick enough. This should stimulate thought. Q. What is the community service project or event closest to your heart? A. I belong to too many organizations to pick one. Each has a special place in my heart, or I wouldn't be a part of it. I couldn't pick a favorite child. Any organization or project that improves the livability of my community is close to my heart. Q. Best advice you've ever received? A. One night in 1965 while working late, Earl Nightengale came on the radio and asked a simple question. What do you say when someone asks, ``Will you do me a favor?'' Most people ask what it is. He encouraged them to just say ``sure.'' It's an attitude. Expect the best of people. If they ask for something unreasonable, you can always recant. What you learn when you expect the best of people is that you usually get it. This change in attitude becomes a way of life. That 10-niinute broadcast had a profound impact on me. Life as an optimist is a lot more enjoyable. Q. Favorite book? A. The Children's Stories of the Bible. My parents read it to my sister and me, and Carol and I read it to our children. Q. Favorite recreational activities? A. Camping, skiing, fishing, cooking. Any activity outdoors, especially in the mountains. Q. Where did you spend your most recent vacation? A. A trip to Kansas City to spend Thanksgiving with my children, grandchildren, mother, sister, niece, nephew, and friends who are also family. Q. What type of car do you drive? A. A 1983 Buick Riviera convertible. Q. What is your favorite restaurant? A. Every ethnic restaurant. We will never run out of favorites. This area is rich with them. Indian, Thai, Chinese, Japanese, Basque, Italian, Mexican, Cajun, Vietnamese, Armenian, etc. Q. What was your first job? A. Emptying wastebaskets in an office building after school in Lemmon, South Dakota when I was 10 years old. Moved on to a lawn mowing and snow shoveling business when I was 12. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor my friend Paul Besselievre for his years of dedicated and distinguished service to his community. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Mr. Besselievre a pleasant retirement and many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks on the subject of my Special Order.

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to be here this evening to honor my Armenian friends, particularly on the eve of the 86th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. The 20th century was one of historic progress, but also horrible brutality. Throughout the century, America has also been the source of this progress, as well as the nation of first resort to combat brutality around the world. The first great American diplomatic and humanitarian initiative of the 20th century was in response to the attempted extermination of the Armenian people. As I did last year on this date, I want to associate my comments with the comments of the Jerusalem Post which said, ``The 1915 wholesale massacre of the Armenians by the Ottoman Turks remains a core experience of the Armenian nation. While there is virtually zero tolerance for Holocaust denial, there is tacit acceptance of the denial of the Armenian Genocide, in part because the Turks have managed to structure this debate so that people question whether this really did happen.'' It is fact that the death of 1.5 million Armenians by execution or starvation really did happen, and we must not tolerate this denial. Mr. Speaker, I say we must affirm history, not bury it. We must learn from history, not reshape it according to the geostrategic needs of the moment, and we must refuse to be intimidated or other states with troubled pasts will ask that the American record on their dark chapter in history be expunged. As Members of this body, we have an obligation to educate and familiarize Americans on the Armenian Genocide. In fact, we must assure that the genocide is remembered so that this human tragedy will not be repeated. As we have seen in recent years, genocide and ethnic cleansing continue to plague nations around the world and, as a great nation, we must always be attentive and willing to stand against such atrocities. We must do the right thing and call upon our human decency to commemorate the Armenian Genocide. We must take our role as the leader of the Free World seriously and educate people on the systematic and deliberate annihilation of 1.5 million Armenians. We must characterize this as genocide. A key element of the record of the American response to this crime against humanity consists of the reports of our ambassador and his consular officials throughout what are now central and eastern Turkey. This record is a priceless tool in the hands of any American concerned with or responsible for our Nation's ongoing global role to prevent genocide and ethnic cleansing. Therefore, I will tomorrow will be introducing a strong bipartisan resolution to bring together all of the U.S. records on the Armenian Genocide and to provide this collection to the House Committee on International Relations, the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, and the Armenian Genocide Museum in Yerevan, Armenia. U.S. Archives contain extensive documentation of the widespread opposition to Ottoman Turkey's brutal massacres and deportations. They also contain records of the unprecedented efforts of the American people to bring relief to the survivors of the 20th century's first genocide. In introducing this legislation, we challenge those who will deny the genocide, past or present. I urge my colleagues to please add their names as an original cosponsor. Finally, I would like to close by expressing my sincere hope that we will have President Bush's support on this initiative. During his campaign he pledged to properly commemorate the Armenian Genocide. I have every reason to believe that he will honor that pledge and do what is right for both the Armenian people and for our historical record.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Reverend Chester McGensy for receiving the Portraits of Success Award. This award pays tribute to Reverend McGensy's involvement in the African- American community. His active involvement has made him a role model for the members of his local community. Reverend McGensy was born and raised in Fresno. In 1986, as a General Building Contractor, he established Delta Electric, an electrical contracting company. His company became a vital part of Fresno's economy employing several individuals. In 1990, while operating Delta Electric, Chester felt a holy calling into the gospel ministry. He decided to further his education in the gospel by attending the Mennonite Brethren Seminary. After nine successful years in business, Chester left his company to begin a new church in Northeast Fresno. In 1995 he began Family Community Church with 5 members. Under his leadership, the church membership has grown to over 750 members. The church has recently completed its first structure, a 22,000 square foot multi- purpose building in Northeast Fresno. His involvement with community organizations include: West Fresno Ministerial Alliance, No Name Fellowship, Edison High School Parent Club, Clovis West Foundation, Evangel Home, Marjoree Mason Home, Angel Tree Project, Feed Fresno Food Give-A-Way, Prison Ministry, Salvation Army Bell Ringers, Poverello House, and the Rescue Mission. His accomplishments have earned him a Portraits of Success Award, presented by KSEE-24 and Companies That Care in recognition of African- American History Month. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Reverend Chester McGensy for his commitment to improving the lives of the people in the community. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Reverend McGensy many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mauldin- Dorfmeier Construction for receiving the prestigious Excellence in Construction Eagle Award. Mauldin-Dorfmeier is receiving the ``Best of the Best'' Award from the Golden Gate Chapter of Associated Builders and Contractors. Mauldin-Dorfmeier Construction, Inc. (MDC) was established in 1983 by Patrick Mauldin and Alan Dorfmeier. Their general contractors activities are focused in central and northern California. MDC has its administrative offices and construction yard based in Fresno. MDC has a staff of over 55 professionals, including experienced project managers, engineers, and over 150 skilled craftsmen ready to take on any construction task. Their current bonding capability is in excess of $100 million, with the ability to bond individual projects in excess of $50 million. Mauldin-Dorfmeier has received many industry awards, including the coveted ``Constructor Award for Excellence in Client Service,'' awarded by the Associated General Contractors of California for the Bulldog Stadium Expansion. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Mauldin-Dorfmeier Construction, Inc. for receiving the Excellence in Construction Eagle Award. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Mauldin-Dorfmeier many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor my niece, Emily Radanovich, for her outstanding performance on the basketball court for the Mariposa High School girls JV basketball team. As a proud uncle, Mr. Speaker, I would like to enter the following Mariposa Gazette article: Radanovich Goes Wild in Double-Overtime (By Bruce Gilbert) In eleven years of covering the Mariposa High girls JV basketball team, this reporter has never before witnessed a performance quite like the one put on by freshman point guard Emily Radanovich in last week's memorable 59-58 win over Orestimba. With the teams second leading scorer, Katie Lombard, not in uniform due to illness, and with the entire starting front line of sophomores Shannon Poole, Lindsay Miller and Lisa Bower in foul trouble throughout the game, and all eventually fouling out, Radanovich put the Grizzlies on her diminutive back and carried them to victory with long-range shooting, never before seen by this reporter at the girls JV level. All Radanovich did was burn the nets for an eye-popping 31 points, including a sensational six three-pointers. The young freshman sank 11 out of 19 shots from the floor and three out of four free throws, while also handing out three assists. Radanovich, off a pass from freshman guard Elizabeth Steele, connected on her third basket of the quarter to give MCHS a 40-38 lead with just 16 seconds remaining. However, OHS answered with an outside shot a split second before the buzzer sounded to send the game to overtime. The overtime began with Radanovich nailing her fifth trey of the game, but Orestimba responded with a basket of their own. Miller then sank a free throw to make it 44-42, and freshman forward Desirae Gilbreth followed with a bucket off an assist from Radanovich to bump the MCHS lead up to 46-42. Radanovich then stripped the OHS point guard of the ball and drove in for a lay-up to give the Grizzlies a 48-42 lead. The Warriors responded with a pair of free throws, but at the other end of the court MCHS freshman Amanda Fuqua answered with a pair of charity tosses to re-establish the six point lead at 50-44. Orestimba then connected on a three- pointer and added a pair of freebies to cut the Grizzley lead to 50-49. With the clock ticking down, the Warriors were forced to foul with five seconds remaining. Radanovich then made one of two with OHS rebounding and calling time-out with four seconds left. Orestimba inbounded the ball to mid-court, and a Warrior drove the left side of the lane, putting up a six- foot bank shot just before the buzzer sounded to send the game into a second overtime. In the second extra period both teams seemed focused on defense as OHS took the lead at 52-51. Radanovich then bombed in her sixth shot of the night from beyond the arc to give MCHS a 54-52 lead. Following a free throw by Fuqua, and with just 40 seconds left, freshman forward Melissa Bevington stunned the Warriors by hitting from just inside the arc, giving the Grizzlies a five-point lead at 57-52. OHS answered with a three-pointer of their own, but were forced to foul Radanovich to regain the ball. With 24 seconds left to play, the smiling Radanovich hit nothing but net on both free throws, making it 59-55. The Warriors then air- mailed another trey in the closing seconds to make the final score 59-58. Besides Radanovich, Fuqua also played well in the absence of the sophomore front court, finishing with eight points and a game high 13 rebounds. Miller had 12 rebounds before fouling out, while Steele totaled nine boards and three assists. The JV's are now 15-9 on the season, and 9-3 (tied for second) in SL action. They will conclude their season this Thursday, Feb. 15, at 6 pm., when they host the Gustine Reds (9-3 in league). Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate Emily Radanovich, as well as the entire girls JV team at Mariposa High School. I urge my colleagues to join me in applauding Emily and the girls for a great season and a job well done.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Carolyn Golden for receiving the Portraits of Success Award. This award pays tribute to Ms. Golden's involvement in the African-American community. Her active involvement has made her a role model for the members of her local community. Carolyn graduated from Fresno University in 1973. In 1974, she began work as a Deputy Probation Officer. From 1978 to 1991 she served as a Campus Probation Officer, a Placement Officer, and a Superior Court Investigator. In 1991, Carolyn became the Probation Services Manager for the Fresno County Probation Department. She also serves as the Project Coordinator of the Victim/Witness Program in Fresno County. Her involvement with volunteer and professional organizations include: KVPT, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Black Catholic United, N.A.A.C.P., YWCA Marjoree Mason Center, Big Brother/Big Sister, Central Valley March of Dimes, African-American Museum San Joaquin Valley, Citizen's Advisory Committee for Pleasant Valley State Prison, Women's Criminal Justice Association, Black Peace Officer's Association, California Victim Witness Coordinating Council, AD HOC Committee Member, Domestic Violence Round Table, California Probation & Parole Correctional Association. Her accomplishments have earned her a Portraits of Success Award, presented by KSEE-24 and Companies That Care in recognition of African- American History Month. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Carolyn Golden for her commitment to improving the lives of the people in the community. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Carolyn Golden many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Clovis Unified School District for receiving the Meritorious Budget Award. The Association of School Business Officials (ASBO) International is given for excellence in the preparation and issuance of a school system annual budget. ASBO International and school business management professionals designed the Meritorious Budget Awards Program to enable school business administrators to achieve a standard of excellence in budget presentation. This program has helped school systems build a solid foundation in the skills of developing, analyzing, and presenting a budget. The Meritorious Budget Award is only given to school districts that have met or exceeded the Meritorious Budget Award Program Criteria. This is the only award program that is specifically designed to enhance school budgeting and honor a school system for a job well done. The Association of School Business Officials International, founded in 1910, is a professional association that provides programs and services to promote the highest standards of school business management practices, professional growth, and the effective use of educational resources. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Clovis Unified School District for receiving the Meritorious Budget Award. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Clovis Unified School District many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Claudia Stanley for being named a 2001 Top Ten Business Woman. She will receive the award at the annual convention of the American Business Women's Association (ABWA) in Atlanta, GA. Claudia was nominated by the local Ponderosa Chapter of ABWA in Fresno. She has served as President, Vice-President, Treasurer, Bulletin-Committee Chairman, and Ways and Means Chairman for the Ponderosa Chapter. For nearly a decade Claudia has effectively run her successful business, the certified public accounting firm C. Stanley CPA & Associates. Her business currently serves more than 350 clients. Stanley is originally from the Boston area. She moved to Fresno with her family at the age of 12. She attended the former Queen of the Valley Academy. After high school she worked at a minimum-wage job before deciding to tackle college. She earned a bachelor's degree in business with an emphasis on accounting from Fresno State University. It took her 11 years to finish college because she held a full time job while attending class at night. Her career and philanthropic achievements include teaching Sunday School for 24 years and membership in the local chapter of the Society of California Accountants. Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize Claudia Stanley for being named a 2001 Top Ten Business Woman. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Ms. Stanley many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Paul Besselievre, the incoming President of the Greater Fresno Area Chamber of Commerce. The Greater Fresno Area Chamber of Commerce is the largest business organization in California's Central Valley. Paul served as Chief Executive Officer of the Fresno Chamber during the past year. His experience as C.E.O. gives Paul great insight into the goals of the Fresno Chamber during 2001. Paul graduated from South Dakota School of Mines and Technology in 1964 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering. Growing up in South Dakota, Paul had a natural love for the outdoors. It was this passion that brought him to the Fresno area. He opened his own business in Fresno and is currently the President/Owner of Valley Trane Heating and Air Conditioning. Paul has been highly active in his community. His past and present membership in professional organizations includes: Board Member, Workforce Development Board; Board Member, Fresno Business Council; Board Member, United Way; Board Member/Secretary, Fresno Rotary; Board Member, Community Food Bank; Life Member, Optimist Society; Member, Yosemite Lakes Park Community Church; Member, American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers. The Greater Fresno Area Chamber of Commerce is the second largest Chamber in California. They currently have over 2,300 members. Their sole mission is to promote business and enhance the economic cultural well being of the people in Fresno County. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Paul Besselievre as the incoming President of the Greater Fresno Area Chamber of Commerce. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Paul Besselievre many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Stephen J. Hawkins, retiring Postmaster of Fresno, California. He has announced his retirement after serving the public for more than 35 years with the United States Postal Service. Stephen arrived in Fresno with an extensive background of successful postal experience in San Francisco, San Diego, and Los Angeles prior to taking the oath of office in Fresno. Since arriving in Fresno, he has dedicated himself to improving customer satisfaction and serving the community members in numerous ways. As the population of Fresno grew, Stephen was instrumental in increasing the number of postal stations by opening Post Office Express, Cedar Station, Blythe Station, Sunnyside Station, and Ashlan Park Station. From 1994 through 1999 he served as Chairman of the Fresno/Madera County Combined Federal Campaign where he helped raise over $500,000 for local charities. He has also served on the Board of Directors of Fresno United Way and as President of the Federal Executive Association. Stephen has actively motivated postal employees to volunteer and contribute in the community with teams in events like the Juvenile Diabetes Walk and the American Cancer Society Run, which help raise money locally for worthy causes. Mr. Hawkins has hosted several stamp release events, including the Breast Cancer Stamp, the Honoring Those Who Served Stamp, the Hospice Stamp, and the Adoption Stamp. He has also sponsored the Youth for Art artists, whose paintings are still located in the lobby of the Main Office Station. Stephen has worked with the Sister Cities Organization and made a presentation and tour of the Fresno Postal Facilities to our sister city from China. Mr. Hawkins has received national recognition by becoming the only Postmaster in the United States to be presented the prestigious Benjamin Award for outstanding communications and community outreach accomplishments four years in a row. Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize Postmaster Stephen J. Hawkins for his numerous contributions to his community. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Postmaster Hawkins many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Kaweah Delta Health Care District for being awarded the coveted Foster G. McGaw Prize. The Foster G. McGaw Prize is widely recognized as one of the most significant honors in the health care industry. The prize honors health care delivery organizations that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to community service. It is awarded by the American Hospital Association and supported by the Baxter Allegiance Foundation. Kaweah Delta Health Care District has always believed that strong community relationships and comprehensive programs are the keys to quality community health. It is therefore quite appropriate, and not surprising, that Kaweah Delta Health Care District has been honored for their proactive role in establishing the web or relationships needed to address the community's health. Its contributions to improving the community's well being have truly been outstanding. Mr. Speaker, I again want to congratulate Kaweah Delta Health Care District for winning the Foster G. McGaw Prize. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing the Kaweah Delta Health Care District many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Larry Willey, the outgoing President of the Greater Fresno Area Chamber of Commerce. The Greater Fresno Area Chamber of Commerce is the largest business organization in California's Central Valley. Larry served as President of the Fresno Chamber during the past year. His leadership has set an example of positive influence that business can have on the improvement of the community. Larry started his tile company as a one-man operation in the late 1970's. His hard work, business ethics, and talent for the tile industry have built Willey Tile Company into one of the largest tile contractors in the state. His company has won several awards, including the Building Industry Association's highest honor, Associate of the Year, and the State of California's Mid-Sized Employer of the Year for People with Disabilities. Mr. Willey has been highly active in his community. His membership in community organizations, committees, and commissions include: Building Industry Association Scholarship Committee; the Coalition for Urban Renewal Excellence; Capital Building Campaign for the Roland McDonald House; Past-Chairman of Fresno Political Action Committee; C.E.O. of Jobs 2000 Board; Vice-Chair of the Work Force Development Education Committee; ARC Advisory Business Board; Business Spokesman of the All- American City Competition; Liaison with Jerry Cook Community Stadium Plan; Mayor's Task Force; and Leadership Fresno Alumnus of the Year 2000. The Greater Fresno Area Chamber of Commerce is the second largest Chamber in California. They currently have over 2,300 members. Their sole mission is to promote business and enhance the economic and cultural well-being of the people in Fresno County. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Larry Willey as the outgoing President of the Greater Fresno Area Chamber of Commerce. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Larry Willey many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Terry Meehan for being named ``Realtor of the Year'' by the Fresno Association of Realtors for the year 2000. The ``Realtor of the Year'' is awarded to an individual who promotes the professionalism of the Fresno Association of Realtors and has made available the programs and services that allow members to conduct their business with integrity and competency. Ms. Meehan led the Fresno Association of Realtors and Fresno Multiple Listing Service into the future with an Internet based M.L.S. system allowing realtors to use the latest technology for their clients. Terry is a graduate of Cal State Fullerton and holds the two highest real estate designations: Graduate of the Realtor Institute and Certified Residential Specialist. Terry has been a full-time real estate broker for over 20 years in Fresno and Clovis, CA. She specializes in residential real estate sales and serves as relocation director at Realty Concepts. She is currently the Fresno Association of Realtors M.L.S. chairperson and serves as a State Director for the California Association of Realtors. Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate Terry Meehan for being named ``Realtor of the Year'' by the Fresno Association of Realtors. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Ms. Meehan many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I would like to present the following Opinion-Editorial that was written by Deborah Nankivell, executive director of the Fresno Business Council. The Opinion-Editorial, printed in the Fresno Bee on December 20, 2000, reads as follows: Johanson's `Gift' Has Been Service to Public We all make decisions everyday based upon external signals and usually motivated by achieving specific goals. Much of life is about taking care of daily tasks and making plans for the future. Then there are those whose path is determined from the inside. Their commitment is to serving and improving the lives of others. Usually these people are invisible in a community. They are the ones who work tirelessly in service professions, the healing arts and serving on countless committees. However, in times of crisis, these people make what is for them a difficult sacrifice, they assume public leadership positions. For the past five years, such a public servant, Richard Johanson, has led the Fresno Business Council. When he was asked to assume this position he was bewildered. He could not understand why community leaders would turn to him to lead the organization. Time has made obvious what the wise among us already knew. Fresno desperately needed to witness a new kind of leader, a community steward, someone who could inspire others to contribute their very highest talents to addressing a myriad of community problems. Special touch It has been often asked how Dick does what he does. How does he take a table full of people who disagree and don't much like each other to come to consensus in less than an hour with hardly saying anything? Why have boards canceled or postponed meetings upon knowing Dick could not attend because they knew without him unproductive conflict would ensue. Why is it that Dick is the one everybody trusts? I believe it is not about what he does at all; it is about who he is. His presence reminds us all of the noble impulses we would love to act upon, but so often choose to ignore in order to satisfy the desires of the ego. Dick has been a role model simply by living his life according to his inner code of honor. In doing so, he has created a culture of stewardship within the Business Council that has begun to spread throughout the community. Six years ago, the lack of civility was painfully obvious in the public arena. Today, those in the public affairs community are learning one of the responsibilities of public service is to be positive role models. Five years ago, the different sectors of the community operated in internal and external vacuums, often in competition with one another. Today, seeking collaborative partners is becoming the norm. Four years ago, expecting merit-based decisions was considered naive. Today, seeking the views of all the stakeholders and deliberating on the merits of an issue is becoming the new standard for decision-making. Three years ago, an expectation of excellence was seen as a criticism in a community defending the status quo. Today, the Center for Advanced Research and Technology, which Dick chairs, is a national example of excellence and the process of its creation has inspired people throughout the Valley to dream new dreams fully expecting fruition. Unique role While certainly many people have had a hand in the steady transformation of the Fresno area, Dick has played a unique and essential role. His ability to love, to care so deeply about his community and everyone who lives here, has melted the hearts and loosened the resources of everyone who is needed to help create a healthier and more prosperous home for us all. As Dick steps down as president of the Business Council and passes the new leadership mantle to Ken Newby, it is the appropriate time to publicly thank him for the gift of himself. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Richard ``Dick'' Johanson for his years of dedicated and distinguished service to his community. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Mr. Johanson many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Eastern Madera County Chamber of Commerce President Marilyn Rigg for her years of dedicated service to the community. Marilyn is a graduate of St. Aloysius Academy, the University of Ohio and the Stonier School of Banking, where her thesis was copyrighted and accepted for inclusion in the National Library. Ms. Rigg taught school in Virginia for 2 years before moving to Oakhurst in 1970. Marilyn worked for 21 years at Security Pacific Bank, where she held numerous jobs, including branch manager, vice-president of planning and marketing, and vice-president of corporate lending. In 1992, she left Security Pacific to begin a State Farm Agency in Oakhurst. Marilyn has served as a member and past president of Soroptimist International of the Sierra, chairman of the Oakhurst Fall Festival, chairman of ``Oakhurst Goes to the Oscars,'' and past board member and treasurer of the Eastern Madera County Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Speaker, I want to pay tribute to Marilyn Rigg for her active and distinguished community involvement. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Marilyn Rigg many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Edna Garabedian, Boris Nixon, and Diane Nixon for their contributions to the California Opera Association. The California Opera Association was incorporated as a California non-profit corporation May 4, 2000. The association is dedicated to enhance public awareness of the role of arts in California through activities and services in the field. In addition to forming partnerships with community organizations, California Opera Association will participate in local, regional, national and international events designed to enhance good will and to support and encourage civic and community growth. Edna Garabedian is one of the founding directors of the California Opera Association. She is a world-renowned Mezzo-Soprano who has performed throughout the U.S. and Europe. Ms. Garabedian was the founder of the Fresno International Grand Opera and has held the distinction of chairperson of voice and opera at several major universities. Boris Nixon is a featured cellist with the Fresno Philharmonic Orchestra. He has performed with various symphony orchestras throughout the United States and he is also one of the founding directors of the California Opera Association. Mr. Nixon has collaborated with the Music Performance Trust Fund of America and Young Audiences of America to stress the importance of keeping music in the schools and expanding work and career opportunities for professional musicians. Diane Nixon is an educator and musician, who is currently completing her pre-med requirements to become a physician. Ms. Nixon is also a founding director of the California Opera Association and has traveled extensively throughout the United States and Europe attending and studying International Operas and Special Arts Festivels for the disabled. Her goal is to focus on integrating and embracing the often- neglected populations, such as the disabled, disadvantaged and elderly, into the creation and consumption of the performing arts. Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate Edna Garabedian, Boris Nixon and Diane Nixon for their contributions to the California Opera Association. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Ms. Garabedian, Mr. Nixon and Ms. Nixon many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Jeanie Miller for being voted ``Affiliate of the Year'' by the Fresno Association of Realtors for the year 2000. The ``Affiliate of the Year'' is awarded to an individual who promotes the professionalism of the Fresno Association of Realtors and has made available the programs and services that allow members to conduct their business with integrity and competency. Jeanie began her career as an account executive at Pacific Telephone Company and AT&T. In 1986 she became an area production manager at First Interstate Mortgage. In 1990 Jeanie started working at All Pacific Mortgage Company, where she served as vice-president and branch manager. Currently, Jeanie is the area production manager at Union Planters Mortgage in Fresno, CA. Throughout her career, Ms. Miller has maintained involvement in the community. She has been active in several organizations, including: Fresno Realtors Association, Association of Professional Mortgage Women, president of the Central Valley Executive Association, and Finance and Stewardship Committee at St. Luke's Church. She is currently the affiliate chairperson for the Fresno Association of Realtors. She was also voted ``Affiliate of the Year'' by the Fresno Association of Realtors in 1987. Jeanie's personal mission is to feed the hungry through Love, Inc. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Jeanie Miller for being named ``Affiliate of the Year'' by the Fresno Association of Realtors. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Jeanie many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Roberto Perez for his years of dedicated service to the community. Roberto grew up in Atwater, CA and graduated from Atwater High School in 1973. He studied accounting and business administration at Merced Junior College. After college, he served for six years as a security specialist in the U.S. Air Force. After leaving the military, Roberto became secretary and financial officer for his family's business working alongside his father, Joe Perez, owner of the Atwater Tile Company and La Nita's Restaurants. Roberto's interest in the community has led him to become involved in several organizations. In 1978, he became a member of Livingston Lodge and was elected as the worshipful master in 1993. In 1979, he became a member of the Scottish Rite of Fresno and Shriners of Fresno, where he rose to assistant executive director general Tehran Temple. He joined the Merced/Mariposa Shriner Club in 1979 and served as president in 1998. After many years as a member of the Mariposa Masonic Lodge he was elected as worshipful master in 1998 and reelected in 1999. He is a former Grand Bible Bearer of the State of California Freemasonry for the year 1999-2000. Roberto has been active in his local Chamber of Commerce. He has served on the board of directors and was elected in 2000 as president of the Mariposa County Chamber of Commerce. Roberto is married to Amy. They have two children, Katrina and Roberto Jr. Mr. Speaker, I want to pay tribute to Roberto Perez for his active and distinguished community involvement. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Roberto Perez many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Irene Ferreira, the current State President of the Cabrillo Civic Clubs of California. The Cabrillo Civic Clubs of California is comprised of fourteen nonprofit Portuguese-American civic clubs whose principles are Americanization, Civic Affairs and Scholarship. Irene was born in Merced and raised in Fresno, California. As a child, Irene was fortunate enough to learn the Portuguese language and the Portuguese culture. Irene was an active member of the Fresno County Cabrillo Civic Club No. 10 for several years. In 1989 and 1990 she served as the Fresno County Cabrillo Civic Club No. 10 President. She has also served as the District Governor of District No. 6 for the organization. At the local level, she has served as Chairperson for many various functions. She also served as the State Civic Affairs Chairperson for seven years. Irene has been married to her husband, Frank, for 36 years. They have two children and three grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Irene Ferreira for her leadership roles in the Cabrillo Civic Clubs of California. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Irene Ferreira many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Austin Herrin for saving the life of my constituent and cousin, Tom Radanovich. Mr Herrin's courage and composure during an emergency situation exemplified heroism. On the evening of September 19, 2000, Tom Radanovich and a friend were dining at an Applebee's Restaurant in Clovis, CA. Tom was enjoying a steak. Unexpectedly, a piece of the meat became lodged in Tom's throat. Tom began to panic and indicate that he was unable to breathe. Austin Herrin, the waiter who had been serving Tom, noticed the commotion and quickly approached Tom. Mr. Herrin calmly performed the Heimlich maneuver, which successfully removed the meat from Tom's throat. Austin's actions likely saved Tom Radanovich's life. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Austin Herrin for his quick action in helping save a life. I urge my colleagues to join me in expressing deep gratitude to Mr. Herrin.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Miriam Costello for receiving the honor of Businesswoman of the Year 2000 by the Mariposa County Chamber of Commerce. Miriam was born in Salt Lake City, Utah. Her family moved to California and in 1945 she graduated from Oakland High School. She spent her first summer in California working in the Yosemite Lodge Cafeteria during World War II. In the fall of 1945, she enrolled at U.C. Berkeley and married her high school sweetheart, Kevin Costello, soon thereafter. Miriam then decided to dedicate her time, love, and energy to raising the wonderful family she boasts today. After her children matured, Miriam returned to college and became an interior designer, earning her degree at U.C.L.A. and the New York School of Interior Design. She then joined the San Diego Chapter of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID). Miriam's first shop, one of eleven, was in Montrose, CA. After Montrose, shops were established in La Canada, Solana Beach, San Diego, Encitas, and Mariposa. When her husband retired from his teaching career in 1991, she opened ``Jailhouse Square'' and made her permanent home in Mariposa. Three years ago Miriam opened ``Miriam & Co.'' She was joined in this venture by Trish Nady of ``Artistic Creations'' and Sue Dole of ``Frankie Sues Antiques and Stuff.'' Miriam recently opened the ``Patent Leather Tea/ Coffee Room,'' also in Mariposa. Miriam is now a proud grandmother of eleven. Mr. Speaker, I want to pay tribute to Miriam Costello for being named Businesswoman of the Year 2000. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Miriam Costello many more years of continued success.