George Radanovich

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I would like to submit the text of the following correspondence to the House of Representatives. Dear Dr. Fletcher: Thank you for sending me a pre- publication copy of your article ``Alcohol Home Delivery Services: A Source of Alcohol for Underage Drinkers''. As I indicated in our phone conversation, the Senate Judiciary Committee held a hearing on ``Interstate Alcohol Sales and the 21st Amendment'' March 9, 1999. Testimony at that hearing made reference to your article. Within the context of that hearing, Utah Attorney General Wayne Klein referenced your upcoming study to indicate that 10% of 12th graders and 7% of 8 to 20 year-olds obtained alcohol through delivery services in the last year. This has left an impression amongst Senators and in the record that these youths were purchasing through interstate alcohol direct shipment mechanisms. It is my understanding that the questions in your study did not distinguish between interstate delivery mechanisms and delivery from stores within a community. In fact my understanding of our conversation and of your article is that it typically is a community liquor outlet in the area which is making the delivery and that most of these deliveries are beer. As I understand it, your study did not attempt to distinguish interstate shipments of alcohol by common carriers and the purchase and delivery of alcohol from community sources. Because there has been significant misinterpretation of these results, I am asking that you write Senators Hatch (FAX (202) 224-9102) and Leahy (FAX (202) 224-3479) to clarify the degree to which your studies have relevance to the issue of Interstate Alcohol Sales. I would also like to obtain a copy of your letter, which I am sure will be added to the official record of the committee. As this is a current and significant issue here on Capitol Hill, your earliest response would be most appreciated. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns in this regard. Sincerely, John McCamman, Chief of Staff.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, yesterday President Bill Clinton announced plans to create a monument in the Sequoia National Forest. Not in Sequoia National Park, mind you, but Sequoia National Forest. It will be 400,000 acres, almost 625 square miles. The 19th District of California is my home. It encompasses four counties, Mariposa, Madera, Fresno, and Tulare. The people of my district share their home with three national forests and two national parks. That makes my district over 85 percent federally owned, one of the highest ratios in the country. Make no mistake, we are proud of our public lands. Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks are crown jewels. The old growth trees that are there inspire majestic awe. The people of my home love and respect the environment. But, Mr. Speaker, this designation is not about protecting the environment and it is not about protecting giant sequoias. Nobody is logging these trees. The sequoia groves have been off limits for years. This designation is all about politics. It is a campaign looking for a press release. It seems our President will say just about anything to prolong his rule. Today he will close down the Sequoia National Forest for some good press, and tomorrow it will be someplace else. What is next? When a government can close off public lands, on a whim, without asking for public comment, they are not really public lands any more. Mr. Speaker, how can we allow a President to close access to public lands the size of Rhode Island without asking permission from the people who own them? Today I am introducing a resolution. It requests that the President tell us what he plans to do with the rest of our public lands before election day. He has, so far, steadfastly refused to answer this question. It requests that the President include real public participation as he moves forward with the Sequoia Monument. He needs to talk to people who live there, not just people in Washington. We should oppose this kind of unilateral closure of public lands, if not for the people in my district or in your district, but then for the sake of our democracy. It seems we need an administration that remembers that we do live in a democracy.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Charles M. Burt for being named the Irrigation Person of the Year by the California Irrigation Institute. Dr. Burt is currently a professor in the BioResource and Agricultural Engineering Department at the California Polytechnic State University, as well as the Director of the university's Irrigation Training and Research Center. Dr. Burt is being honored on January 24th at the California Irrigation Institute's 38th Annual Meeting. Charles M. Burt is being recognized for his many contributions to education and the advancement of irrigation knowledge and practice. In addition to his roles as a professor and the Director of the Irrigation Training and Research Center, Burt is a member of several related organizations. He belongs to the American Society of Agricultural Engineers, the Water Resources Engineering Division of the American Society of Civil Engineers, and the Irrigation Association. He is also a member of the Advisory Board for the Office of Water Conservation, the American Society of Agronomy, the United States Committee on Irrigation and Drainage (USCID), and numerous others. Dr. Burt began his irrigation career in 1975, when he designed several large drip systems in the USSR and Iran, as a Keller Engineering Irrigation System Designer. He worked on this through 1976 until he worked as an Irrigation System Designer for Wren-Oneal Co. in Fresno. In 1981 and 1982 Dr. Burt worked on irrigation design and project planning as the Chief Engineer and partner of JM Lord, Inc. Since that time, he has continued his commitment to irrigation and education at the California Polytechnic State University. Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate Charles M. Burt for being named Irrigation Person of the Year. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Dr. Burt many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Rev. Paul Binion, Edward Richardson, Judge Ivy Glover Roberts, Cynthia Ann Sterling, and Joe Williams, for being selected the Year 2000 Portraits of Success by KSEE 24 and Companies that Care. In celebration of African-American History Month, these five distinguished local leaders are being honored for their unique contributions to the betterment of their community. Rev. Paul Binion has served the Westside Church of God for the past twenty-one years as Senior Pastor. In addition, he serves on many boards and committees: Evangelicals for Social Action, Black Californians for Life, Prison Fellowship of Central California, and Interstate Association of the Church of God. He also serves on the No- Name Fellowship Steering Committee, Fresno Leadership Foundation, Parents Aware, Fresno Pacific University Service Corp., Fresno Institute for Urban Leadership, and West Fresno Ministerial Alliance. Edward Richardson was the first African-American building contractor to be licensed in the City of Fresno by the State of California. Mr. Richardson has become a mentor for other African-Americans starting his or her own construction companies. He is soon to be inducted into the African-American Museum for the work he has done in the Central Valley. Judge Ivy Glover Roberts maintains a private law practice, in addition to her duties as the University Complex Developer for Wilberforce University. Previously she was an administrative law judge for the State of California for eight years, and was Criminal Courts Commissioner, Deputy District Attorney, and Deputy Probation Officer for Los Angeles County. Cynthia Ann Sterling is a full-time funeral director and grief counselor, as managing director of Sterling Funeral Home, Inc. In addition, she serves on the Fresno City Planning Commission, is State President of the National Funeral Directors & Morticians Association, President of Fresno African-American Ministries, and a Board member of the Girl Scouts of America. Sterling Funeral Home is a Fresno tradition, founded in 1949 by Cynthia's parents, Elma and Feltus Sterling. Joe Williams is CEO of Richard Heath & Associates, responsible for the day-to-day operation of this $2 million corporation that has contracts with the State of California Healthy Families Program, energy conservation programs with PG&E, Southern California Gas, San Diego Gas & Electric, and Southern California Edison. He is former executive director of Fresno County Economic Opportunities Commission, responsible for Head Start, refugee services, youth-at-risk services, and many others. Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor that I pay tribute to Rev. Paul Binion, Edward Richardson, Judge Ivy Glover Roberts, Cynthia Ann Sterling, and Joe Williams for being recognized as the KSEE 24 Companies that Care 2000 Portraits of Success honorees. I applaud the contributions, ideas, and leadership they have exhibited in our community. I ask my colleagues to join me in wishing these fine people many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor William M. Lyles for being named the 1999 Entrepreneur in Residence, a program of the Sid Craig School of Business at California State University, Fresno. Each year the program hosts a successful entrepreneur in order to stimulate local business interest. William M. Lyles is the president and chief executive officer of Fresno-based Lyles Diversified, Inc. Lyles was selected as the 1999 Entrepreneur in Residence because of his tremendous qualifications and service to both the community at large and the business community. Mr. Lyles' extensive business involvement includes: W.M. Lyles Co., a general engineering contractor engaged primarily in underground pipeline and utility construction, and Kaweah Construction Co., a general engineering contractor specializing in heavy concrete and mechanical construction. He is also involved in American Paving Co., a general engineering contractor with interests primarily in paving residential and commercial property, and Saratoga Capital, Inc., a San Jose-based property management corporation, handling rental properties and real estate sales. In addition, Lyles also holds a partnership in Pelco, a Clovis-based company designing, manufacturing, and marketing components for closed circuit television security and surveillance systems. Lyles Diversified, Inc. is a California corporation engaged in construction and manufacturing. The company's varied interests include subdivision and industrial tract developments, real estate ownership and management, shopping centers, and farming interests. Lyles plays an active role in all of his business ventures. Lyles has received several awards, including the 1991 Leon Peters Award, the 1992 Outstanding Philanthropist, and the Purdue Alumni Citizenship Award, among others. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor William L. Lyles for his achievements as a businessman. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Mr. Lyles many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Joseph Gallo Farms of Atwater for being named the 1999 Baker, Peterson & Franklin Ag Business Award. Joseph Gallo Farms is being honored on November 17, 1999 at the AgFRESNO Farm Equipment Exposition luncheon. Joseph Gallo Farms (JGF), family-owned and operated by CEO and co- owner Michael Gallo was named the nation's largest dairy by Successful Farming in 1995. JGF was founded in 1946; they operate 12,000 acres of land, raising 25,000 head of cattle on five dairies and 2,500 acres of wine grapes, Joseph Gallo Farms also produces a wide array of Joseph Farms cheeses, which are sold in more than 20 states and in five countries internationally. JGF has played a significant role in cheese becoming the fastest-growing dairy product in California, now the second leading state in cheese production. Joseph Gallo Farms is leading the way in its ``Environmentally- Compatible Farming,'' finding land usage compromises to benefit both agriculture and the surrounding natural environment. Operating within the San Joaquin Valley Grasslands, one of the most critical wetland areas left in California, JGF seeks to protect the environment while still conducting its farming affairs. For these efforts, JGF received an environmental award from the Central Valley Joint Habitat in 1996. JGF has created its own internal Department of Environmental Affairs to ensure that all operations remain compatible with critical habitat values. With the consumer concern over the rBST/rBGH controversy, JGF made the unprecedented decision to stop using all artificial hormones on its dairy herd, becoming the first cheese producer nationwide to receive governmental approval to label its premium cheese as have ``No Artificial Hormones.'' Mr. Speaker, the Ag Business Award is given to an agricultural organization whose achievements and impact have significantly contributed to the industry and the Center Valley; Joseph Gallo Farms is a excellent representation of this. I congratulate JGF for their accomplishments in the cheese and agriculture business. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Joseph Gallo Farms many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Clovis Chamber of Commerce 1999 Salute to Business honorees for their hard work and accomplishments. The honorees are: Anlin Industries, N&N Boats, Vicki Dobbs, and David Maestas. Anlin Industries is being honored as the 1999 Industrial Company of the Year. Anlin Industries is a vinyl window and door manufacturer that started eight years ago in October of 1991 with four employees, and no sales. In 1996, Anlin sales were $9.6 million with a seven figure net profit before taxes with 100 employees. This year Anlin Industries now has 183 employees with $21 million in sales. President Thomas Vidmar attributes all of Anlin Industries success to the hard work of its employees. Anlin's mission is to be the preeminent replacement window and door manufacturer in the country, providing their customers with the highest quality products and service in the business. Earning a fair return on investment and continually reinvesting those profits in their people and the business, ensuring Anlin's long term success and career opportunities for generations to come. N&N Boats and Mr. Rich Lyons is the 1999 Small Business of the Year Award recipient. Rich Lyons has been in the boating industry since 1977. He established N&N Boats in April 1994 when N&N Marine closed after 27 years in the Fresno/Clovis area. Initially the business was repairing boats and selling parts. Today they have a line of new boats and accessories. N&N Boats has assisted Western Directory with the sponsorship of the Chamber Golf Tournament for the past two years. Vicki Dobbs is the 1999 Professional Business Woman of the year. Vicki is a Realtor, and a native of Fresno graduating from California State University, Fresno as one of the first women in ag-education in the Valley. Vicki is a strong advocate for agriculture and the need for broad based agricultural education programs. She supports the Ag Advisory Committee, the Clovis FFA, and serves as a Director on the Board for the Foundation for Clovis Schools. Vicki also supports the Clovis Police Activities League and has been involved with the Clovis High Ag Boosters. Vicki is an Executive Ambassador for the Clovis Chamber of Commerce and was elected to the Board of Directors. She has been voted the Best Realtor in Clovis for the past several years by readers of the Clovis Independent. Vicki Dobbs is the top producing sales associate for the Clovis office of Guarantee Real Estate. She is definitely tuned into Clovis and its unique way of life. David Maestas is the Einar Cook Leadership Award recipient. The Einar Cook Leadership Award was developed to recognize those who step forward with a vision and are willing to work for what they believe in. David Maestas served eight years in the Army in the Military police. He then became active in the Title-Escrow Industry where he received the top sales award in the President's Diamond Club five years in a row. He also was acting President in the Four Seasons Leads Group and President of the Optimist Club. David and his wife Jodie moved to Fresno in 1994 both working for First American Title Company. In just a few years, David and Jodie held a tremendous percentage of sales for the Clovis- Fresno area. With their involvement with the Clovis Chamber and the Clovis area, they were offered a new office location in Clovis, providing they could combine their efforts and increase sales by 5 percent. The Clovis office became the number 1 Office in Market share in Clovis and has been voted the Best Title-Escrow office four years in a row by the Clovis Independent. David received the Clovis Chamber of Commerce Volunteer of the Year Award and was designated as the Ambassador of the Year for the Chamber. David founded the Chamber's Professional Executives Network and served as President of the Miss Clovis Scholarship Associaiton. He served as the 1998 Chairman Elect for the Clovis Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and served as President in 1999. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise to honor these recipients as they are being honored at the Clovis Chamber of Commerce Salute to Business Luncheon. I want to congratulate Anlin Industries, N&N Boats, Vicki Dobbs, and David Maestas for their hard work and dedication to the community and the Clovis Chamber of Commerce. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing them many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Jack L. Woolf, chairman of Woolf Enterprises and the Woolf Farming Company, for being named the 1999 Agriculturist of the Year by the Fresno Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Woolf is being honored on November 17, 1999 at the Ag Fresno Farm Equipment Exposition luncheon. Jack Woolf is well known throughout the Central Valley agricultural community. In addition to Woolf Farming, Woolf Enterprises holds a major interest in Los Gatos Tomato Products; Harris-Woolf California Almond Processing; Cal-West Rain and Aliso Ranch, Madera County. Woolf is also president of Woolf Farming of Arizona. Woolf currently serves on the Board of Directors for Valley Public Television and recently received the Public Television Development Leadership Award for 1999. He also serves on the Fresno Historical Society Board. Jack Woolf began his agricultural career by joining Russell Giffen, Inc. in 1946 where he served as general manager for more than 28 years. Woolf also served as chairman of the Kingsburg Cotton Oil Co., president of the California Tomato Growers Association and as a member of the Board of Regents for Santa Clara University. He is a past member of the board of directors for Westlands Water District, California Valley Bank and San Joaquin College of Law. Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate Jack Woolf for being named Agriculturist of the Year for 1999. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Jack many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Edwin and Inez (May) Waldron as they celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on December 1, 1999. Mr. and Mrs. Waldron have served the United States through military service and as wonderful parents. Edwin and May were married on December 1, 1949. They had known each other for only three and a half months, and this milestone is a testament to their dedication to each other and their marriage commitment. Edwin grew up in a small coal-mining town in West Virginia during the Great Depression, and has always been a shining example of honesty with an excellent work ethic. Everything is done right the first time and in its place. He was a Machinsts Mate in the U.S. Navy serving in the submarine and air corps, and is a Pearl Harbor survivor. In 1963 he started his own business, Anaheim Printing and Lithography, and his wife was the bookkeeper and store manager. They worked together at the shop until they both retired in 1978. Edwin is also a proud descendant of Revolutionary War and Civil War veterans. May is from an old Quaker family who arrived in this country in 1620. She grew up in Venice, California, during the hard times of the Great Depression. She served as a WAVE in the U.S. Navy during World War II, as a storekeeper and had a Top Secret clearance. She also volunteered her services to the critically injured men at Aiea Naval Hospital. After the war, she received a commendation for exemplary service from President Harry Truman. As parents, Edwin and May raised two daughters in a kind, but very well disciplined manner. May was a faithful room mother and active in PTA as well as the Business and Professional Women's Association. The Waldrons have five grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Edwin and May Waldron, for their example of commitment, care, love, pride, honesty, and hard work. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Mr. and Mrs. Waldron many more years of happiness and success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Robyn Black, Pilar De La Cruz, Jan Outlar-Edwards, Marvell French, Edna Garabedian, Valerie Rae Hannerman, Annette La Rue, Margaret Mims, Judy Sakaki, and Gloria Williams as the Top Ten Business Professional Women of the Year. Robyn A. Black is a Legislative Advocate at Aaron Read & Associates. Robyn is a fourth generation family farmer and has spent much of her life working on behalf of California agriculture. She believes in helping others ``find their voice'' in order to advocate their beliefs and effect change. Her tenure as Chair of the State's Industrial Welfare Commission under Governor Wilson taught her ``that you need to stand by your decisions when you believe you have done your best.'' Pilar De La Cruz, RN, B.S.N. is Vice President, Ed Development/Human Resources at Community Medical Centers. Pilar is first, foremost, and proudly, a Registered Nurse, although she serves our community in many capacities. Pilar has been instrumental in founding the Jefferson Job Institute for Community Medical Centers, an entry-level job training program for low-income parents of school-age children. Through this program parents gain self-confidence skills and pride which helps them obtain employment in the community. The program has grown to include two other schools and is one of the most successful programs in Fresno County for getting people back to work. Jan Outlar-Edwards, M.S. is Media Director of Gottschalks. Jan says that ``Real success is a collaborative effort.'' The success Jan has experienced in her profession is a direct result of collaboration with those who have traveled before and were kind enough to stop and take the time to teach her. She has spearheaded several programs such as ``Coats for Kids'' and volunteers with the Fresno High Mentoring Program. Networking is one of Jan's passions. Marvell French is Senior Vice-President/Sales Administrator of Regency Bank. Marvell is president of the American Cancer Society, a member of the American Heart Association, Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council, and CARE Fresno, where she will oversee their annual fund- raiser, the Police and Firefighter of the Year Annual Ball. Marvell's goal and commitment to her business and community is to make a difference and bring about positive change. Edna Garabedian is the Artistic Director at the Fresno International Grand Opera. Edna believes education is the core of human experience. Her most significant contribution has not been the furthering of her own career, but the educational enrichment of others. Her vision and more than four years of hard work have become reality in the creation of the Fresno International Grand Opera. Her work with F.I.G. has allowed Edna to work with at-risk youths in our community and inspire a sense of confidence and direction in their lives. Valerie Rae Hanneman is Director of Fiscal Services of Central California Legal Services. Valerie believes in giving people a helping hand, taking a chance on them, and applauding their success. She has made it a practice in her career to hire people who need a helping hand and encourages similar hiring throughout her organization. Valerie's philosophy carries over into her volunteer capacity with CARE Fresno where she is a lead site director. She directs and coordinates the program, but more importantly, interacts with the children. Annette La Rue is a Retired Judge. Throughout her career as an attorney and judge, Annette has encouraged women to ``take the next step'' in the law profession by starting their own practices and running for judgeships. Her years of service have resulted in many awards, including the Fresno County Bar Association Bernard E. Witkin Lifetime Achievement Award and the 1999 Outstanding Hastings Law School Alumnus of the Year. Annette is a founder of the Salvation Army Rosecrest home for women substance abusers, co-chairs the Rotary Club's environmental committee, and sits on the Fresno Philharmonic board. Margaret Mims is Deputy Sheriff Lieutenant of Fresno County Sheriff's Department. Margaret was hired in 1980 as the first female officer for the Kerman Police Department; Margaret is now the first woman Deputy Sheriff to be promoted to the rank of lieutenant. She has worked hard throughout her career to improve victim advocacy, and has been instrumental in integrating community-based organizations with law enforcement. Margaret worked to obtain a grant and initiated a program to place advocates in police agencies. Her idea of placing advocates in police agencies has been used as a model for rape counseling service agencies throughout California. Judy K. Sakaki, Ph.D., is Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students at California State University, Fresno. Judy is the highest-ranking Asian-American woman administrator in the California State University system. As Vice President for Student Affairs at CSU, Fresno, she has been able to help students from diverse backgrounds succeed by creating services and programs which meet their needs. She is most proud of the help she provides students, encouraging them to talk with each other irrespective of racial or ethnic differences, to share their feelings of anger, helplessness, and hope. Gloria Williams is Vice President/Designated Nurse Executive at Valley Children's Hospital. Gloria has used her leadership abilities to effect innovative change in her profession and community. She was named as one of the Top Ten Nurses in the state by NurseWeek Magazine in 1994, and this year was appointed to their Executive Advisory Board. She is a member of the Board of Directors for the Alternative Sentencing Program and is involved in overseeing screening activities that place people in rehabilitation programs as an alternative to prison time. Gloria currently leads a nursing task force to implement accelerated nursing degree programs and designs curriculum for classes at Fresno City College and CSU/Fresno. Mr. Speaker, I want to honor the Top Ten Business Professional Women of the Year for 1999. Each one of these women have gone above and beyond their professional jobs to provide services and create programs for the community. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing the Top Ten Business professional Women many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the debut of the California Raisin Marketing Board, CRMB. The CRMB has taken the place of CALRAB, the California Raisin Advisory Board. CRMB is planting its first roots in tomorrow's raisin sales with restaurant projects, back-to-school campaigns, food service and produce marketing trade show participation, retail and trade advertising, website development, health and nutrition research and promotions, and the rebirth of the California Raisin, a new character replacing all previous Dancing Raisin Art. The new character will bring life to raisins and CRMB will launch California raisins into the twenty first century with new ways to promote their product. One of the first major outings for the new character will be a Denny's Restaurant promotion, debuting in January 2000. The California raisin industry has come far as the world raisin leader. CRMB will bring true glory to the raisin industry in the years to come. Mr. Speaker, I applaud the California Raisin Marketing Board for their new innovative plan and character to bring us into the new millennium. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing CRMB a bright future and many years of success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman from California for yielding me this time. As a cosponsor of H.R. 3077, I want to express my support for this bill on the floor. As we all know, water is a precious commodity in the State of California and particularly in the great Central Valley. I have seen the extra mile that water users in this area have taken to conserve water. This is not enough, however, because their water supply reliability has been significantly reduced and no certainty in supply is on the horizon for California agriculture and urban water users. The Central Valley has a long agricultural history, producing over 250 of California's crops. With its fertile soil, temperate climate, and water supply capabilities, the Central Valley produces 8 percent of the agricultural output in the United States, on less than 1 percent of our Nation's farmland. Valley farmers grow nearly half of the fresh fruits and vegetables grown in the entire Nation. At the same time, the Central Valley is the fastest growing region in the State, placing an ever-increasing demand on its urban water requirements. While agricultural and urban water demands are often in competition with one another, neither can be provided for unless a reliable supply of water is made available. Long-term environmental and habitat restoration needs of the Central Valley ecosystem must also be addressed, squeezing still more water out of a dwindling supply. Currently, under the CVPIA, over one million acre-feet of water is provided for environmental purposes each year. The demands for agricultural, environmental and urban water uses in the great Central Valley are endless. Since water is directly tied to the economy, any disturbance in its supply will almost certainly result in the loss of jobs and agricultural production. By the year 2020, a net loss of 2.3 million acre-feet of water is projected for agricultural use. This is unacceptable and irresponsible. The impact of such a decline would be devastating. Thus, an adequate water supply should and must be secured. For these reasons, I am a cosponsor of H.R. 3077. This measure gives water users the ability to obtain water from the State of California by facilitating water transfers at the San Luis Unit. Currently, the San Luis Act prohibits the State from allowing water to go through the San Luis Unit of the Central Valley Project. This will be corrected under H.R. 3077 and some of the tremendous strains on water supplies in the State will be alleviated. Again, I support this bill and urge its passage.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the upcoming marriage of my Executive Assistant Lisa Ford and Nick Wallace. Lisa and Nick will be married in a few short weeks on November 21, 1999, in Miami, Florida. Both Lisa and Nick go way back with me. When I was working for the Republican nomination in 1994, Lisa jointed my team to help me win the Primary. I went on to win the nomination, and the subsequent general election, and Lisa played an essential role in those victories. She has been with me through the two elections since, and she is with me still today. Mr. Speaker. I can say without hesitation that Lisa Ford has been an integral part of my life. She has managed all facets of my political life with grace and aplomb. Lisa's calm demeanor has been, and continues to have, a tremendous influence in my office. Under fire, Lisa's clearheadedness and diligent focus is inspirational and her intelligent insight a tremendous asset. In addition, Lisa's compassion and loving nature shines through her every action and inspires respect and affection from everyone she meets. I am very fortunate to have Lisa Ford as my Executive Assistant. At the same time that Lisa was helping me win my primary, an old friend in the District was helping me as well. The Wallace's son Nick came to Washington as an intern, and little did I know that they were falling in love! This is truly, a romance made in DC. Nick went back to California and then returned as the star player on the Western Caucus Softball team. He continues to influence the office with his outstanding Almond Roca and his homemade sushi, as well as his wry observations on the abnormality of Washington life. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House to join me in honoring the marriage of two wonderful friends. I know that Lisa Ford and Nick Wallace will prosper and be fulfilled in their dreams with their life together. I wish them all the happiness and joy that marriage can bring.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Madam Chairman, reclaiming my time, the bill allows funding for counties should they propose to set up local Quincy Library plans. I agree with the gentleman, it does not prevent that from happening; but in poor counties like the one I come from, it gives the flexibility to local officials to decide to use some of that money to fund a Quincy Library group plan locally. I do submit that that is what has got the national environmental lobby scared to death, because it is a threat to their power base.

Mr. RADANOVICH. Madam Chairman, it is my opinion that it is the administration's goal to get everybody out of the forest and put rural communities on welfare. A very good point was made in that the best forest management plans are from local input. This administration's ill-conceived notion is that no management is good forest health, and that is just not true. So I agree and align myself with the gentleman's statement. The administration's goal is to get people out of Federal lands and put rural communities on welfare. That is the goal.

Mr. RADANOVICH. Madam Chairman, will the gentleman yield?

Mr. RADANOVICH. Reclaiming my time, Madam Chairman, I would submit that the national environmental lobbies' primary reason for opposing this bill is because it gives local communities the ability to fund Quincy Library type groups in their district. I submit that is why the national environmental lobby is scared to death of this bill. That is why I support it wholeheartedly and oppose the amendment.

Mr. RADANOVICH. I yield to the gentleman from Colorado.

Mr. RADANOVICH. Madam Chairman, I move to strike the requisite number of words. Madam Chairman, I want to speak in opposition to this amendment and for the community project section of this bill. I do so for one main reason, and that is that this bill, as it is so crafted, gives flexibility for local governments to do local forest management plans, like Quincy Library groups. This amendment would prevent that from happening. The Quincy Library group, as you may well recall, was something that developed in the Town of Quincy after the Spotted Owl wars, and the President came out and said, ``Why do you not solve your problems locally?'' That gave the incentive for local environmentalists, local business folks, local government leaders, to sit in what was the Quincy Library group, and they met there because they could not shout at each other at a library, and they actually got together and put together a forest management plan that worked for the local communities and also provided for better forest health than the current law that applied in that land. Now, this is a wonderful plan; and I think that the bill as it is crafted allows for flexibility in the local governments to develop Quincy Library groups all across the country. I might remind this body too that the Quincy Library group, the forest plan that resulted from that, when it was brought to a vote on the floor of the House, passed 429 to 1 and is currently being stymied by the administration because it drives a wedge into the local and national leaders of the environmental community; and the national environmental leaders are threatened for the loss of power, even at the expense of a plan that provides better forest health. I would submit that is really what is going on here. I think it is ironic that the national environmental lobby is opposed to a bill such as this, even when the possibility of local forest management plans will result in better forest health. That is why I oppose this amendment and urge for the passage of the bill as it stands.

Mr. RADANOVICH. Madam Chairman, I want to tell my colleagues about Mariposa County, where I was born and raised. It has a single school district within it struggling to make ends meet for about 2,600 students. Arts programs for children have been cut back, six of the districts schools do not have a lunchroom where the children can eat, 60 percent of Mariposa County school buildings are modular, temporary structures, and the school district's bus fleet is rapidly aging. Such decay is due in part to a lack of management on the national forests. Over the past decade, Mariposa County has gone from generating $800,000 each year from the receipt program to less than $100,000 as a result of diminished forest management. Mariposa County's resources are Federal lands, so the county is unable to generate a sufficient tax base. It, therefore, relies on funds derived from the receipt program. It is vital that Congress pass H.R. 2389, which creates a system to encourage rural forest communities to be self-sufficient and provide funding for schools in these areas. Approval of H.R. 2389 is also necessary to prevent the administration from implementing its plan to remove economic incentives to rural communities by decoupling forest receipts and giving direct payments to counties that are not linked to forest management. The loss of the 25 percent receipts would further devastate rural schools and their already economically ailing communities experiencing decreased forest management. The economies of some rural communities, in Northern California in particular, depend almost entirely on the management of forest. In the absence of receipts, the areas have little else except government welfare upon which to survive. The County Schools Funding Revitalization Act is needed to establish a stable system of funds to provide a solid future for rural schoolchildren. I strongly support H.R. 2389 on behalf of the rural children throughout my district who simply have had enough cuts in their schools and must be afforded the opportunity to receive the best education possible.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the Raisin Administrative Committee, RAC, for 50 years of service. The California raisin industry members remember trying times after World War II. During the war, the raisin industry had been given the opportunity to introduce California raisins overseas when the agriculture industry was called upon to produce a plentiful food and fiber supply not only for the United States, but for our allies. When the war ended, California raisin industry members wanted to maintain the demand for their product overseas, but times were hard. It was time to plan for the future. A. ``Sox'' Setrakian is a leader in the industry who will forever be remembered for his dedication to the California raisin industry. He was the driving force behind the California Raisin Administrative Committee's implementation. ``Sox'' arrived in the United States from Izmir, Turkey, with little more than the clothes on his back. He became one of the most influential raisin industry leaders of all time. He was involved in the grape and raisin industry sharing the concern for more markets to accommodate the raisin production. Raisin growers agreed that they needed to create a demand for the raisin supply. Things began to change in 1949 when the Agricultural Marketing Agreement Act of 1937, and the California Marketing Act of 1937, the federal marketing order was made effective in August of 1949. It would be managed under its administrative body known as the Raisin Administrative Committee, RAC. This is what the industry needed to expand its presence in the world. The purpose of RAC is to control the administration of California raisins. It has been 50 years since RAC's implementation and it is stronger than ever. Today the industry credits ``Sox'' Setrakian who was the first chairman of RAC, leading the industry forward and opening new markets for California raisins. Mr. Speaker, I want to pay tribute to the Raisin Administrative Committee, RAC, for leading the way for California raisins. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing RAC many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor John Pakchoian, as American Vineyard's Grower of the Year for 1999. Mr. Pakchoian began farming in 1938 in a vineyard near Fowler, California. He is 82 years old and still farming. John Pakchoian's favorite thing to talk about is farming. He was born into a farming family where he learned the responsibilities of hard work at the young age of six, after his father died. Pakchoian was the oldest child and the only boy. He worked before school and after school to help support the family. John Pakchoian enlisted in the Marine Corps when World War II broke out. As Private First Class, Pakchoian belonged to the 26th Regiment, 5th Marine Division. His heroic performance in Saesbo, Japan on July 21, 1944 earned him a Bronze Medal. The raisin industry went through a tough time at the start of World War II, prices were deteriorating and growers were losing hope. Raisin growers were called upon to produce raisins for the troops oversees, which boosted prices. In 1937 under the Federal Marketing Order Act, a federal marketing order for raisins was formed in 1949. It has been 50 years since the marketing order was formed, and the raisin industry has come a long way, facing many challenges along the way. These challenges prompted Pakchoian to get involved in industry issues. He along with Ernie Bedrosian and Dick Mitchell helped draft the by-laws of the Raisin Bargaining Association, RBA. John Pakchoian was the fifth chairman of RBA and served on the Fresno County Farm Bureau Raisin Committee for 10 years. John and Clyde Nef were the driving force behind the Raisin Industry Diversion Program in the mid 80's, known as RID. Pakchoian said the industry needed RID because too much raisin tonnage was being sold for cattle feed. In recent years there hasn't been a need for RID. The focus of the market now is to hold on to its markets and explore new ones. Pakchoian has grown every crop you can grow in the San Joaquin Valley and the only ones that have carried him through were the table grapes, wine grapes and raisins. Raisins have been the one crop that has kept John in business all of there years. Pakchoian likes nothing more than farming. Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize Mr. John Pakchoian as Grower of the Year, 1999. He has worked hard to promote the raisin industry and bring it to where it is today. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing John Pakchoian many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to WangKay Fang, a leader in the Hmong community who passed away on October 6, 1999 in Fresno. Mr. Fang left behind six brothers, nine sisters, five daughters, three sons and twelve grandchildren, along with many fellow countrymen and women. Mr. Fang will forever be remembered as one of the respected Hmong leaders who spent his entire life dedicated to helping his fellow countrymen during and after the cold war in Laos. During the U.S./ Vietnam War, Captain WangKay Fang served 15 years for the United States Secret Army operation, in Laos under the command of General Vang Pao. His service and dedication shall remain etched in history for generations to come. Mr. Fang's military leadership has contributed to the common interests of the world in order to protect against the spread of communism, and preserve peace, freedom and democracy in Southeast Asia. During the U.S./Vietnam War, Mr. Fang was the mission commander of the Special Guerrilla Unit to fight against communists and rescue U.S. pilots shot down in Laos. In addition, Mr. Fang was in charge of the military department for medical personnel. Mr. WangKay Fang arrived in the United States in August, 1976 as a political refugee from Laos. His family re-settled in California. Mr. Fang worked diligently to address the Hmong and Laotian resettlement difficulties in a new society. During his 24 years of re-settlement in the United States, Mr. Fang took on numerous leadership roles: chairman of the Hmong International New Year in Fresno from 1966-1998; co- founder of the Hmong Youth Foundation of Fresno; co-founder and President of the United Hmong International Council from 1996-1998; co- founder and Vice President of the Hmong National Council of Fresno from 1994-1996; co-founder and board member of the Hmong Council from 1981- 91, and vice president from 1992-1994; Board member for the Lao Community of Fresno from 1981-1991; co-founder and board member for the Lao Family Community headquarters in Orange County from 1978-1981. Mr. Fang is also an active member of political advocacy in the Hmong community worldwide. He has dedicated his entire life in the United States to the promotion of freedom, democracy and human rights for the people and region of Southeast Asia. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Mr. WangKay Fang for his dedication to preserve freedom. Mr. Fang is honored by his family members and his fellow countrymen as an honorable leader who was generous and honest. I urge my colleagues to join me in extending my condolences to the Hmong and Laotian community.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Stavros Kalomiris and Violet Reckas. They were the recipients of St. George Greek Church's Georgie Awards. Stavros Nicholas Kalomiris: Stavros was born in Anniston, Alabama, on April 2, 1925. His family moved to Fresno when he was 8 months old. Stavros graduated from Fresno High School in 1943. He then joined the Marine Corps after graduation and served in the Pacific Theater for 3 years. Stavros saw action on Iwo Jima. He returned to Fresno after the war. On February 17th, 1952, he married Clara Mitchell from Stockton, California. They have 3 children and 7 grandchildren. Stavros worked for the City of Fresno, Street Department, for 25 years and retired in 1978. Stavros served on the St. George Parish Council in 1959 and 60. He also served as St. George Youth Advisor for over 10 years and ran Camp Keola at Huntington Lake for many years before St. Nicholas Ranch was established. Stavros assisted Father Bakas at St. Nicholas Ranch by transporting campers to and from the ranch. Stavros has been a life long member of St. George Golden Age activities as tour director for over 10 years and a member of the Order of Ahepa for over 40 years. Stavros volunteers at Special Olympics every year. He and his family have been a very important part of St. George Church and the Greek Community for many years. Violet Reckas: Vi is one of nine children born to Peter and Vasiliki Reckas. A native of Fresno, Vi's affinity for ecclesiastical music came naturally: her father was a cantor for the Church which, at the time, was but a few blocks away from the family home. Vi attended Edison High School, and wound up working in the family bakery during World War II while her brothers were away. The St. George Choir has been organized by her brother John prior to the war. Vi took over the direction of the choir at the urging of Dr. Limberakis during his tenure at St. George. During the 80's, Vi's outstanding work with the choir was recognized by (Bishop) Metropolitan Anthony Lakovos with a Gold Medallion. Vi's involvement with the choir became somewhat curtailed in 1991 when a tumor was discovered.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor World War I veteran, John Strong, Mess Attendant 3rd Class, U.S. Navy. The Government of France has approved Mr. Strong for the award of The National Order of the Legion of Honor. The National Order of the Legion of Honor is the highest honor France bestows on its citizens and foreign nationals. It is presented in gratitude for the American valor in France during World War I and in recognition of the 80th anniversary of the signing of the Armistance on November 11, 1918. John Strong is 101 years old, and a long time resident of Fresno and the San Joaquin Valley. He served as a Mess Attendant 3rd Class with the U.S. Navy in World War I. He left for Brest, France on the U.S.S. Passtora and served aboard a submarine in France. John Strong vividly remembers surviving a torpedo missile attack by the Germans. The torpedo landed three or four feet away from the submarine that he was on and many sailors were killed as a result of the attack. Mess Attendant 3rd Class Strong was one of the few fortunate sailors to survive and he has never forgotten this incident. He was honorably discharged from the U.S. Navy on September 25,1919. John Strong has since been a minister of the Gospel of the Jesus Christ Church. He entered into the ministry in 1929 and over the years has pastored in five churches. He was an active minister until 1998. Mr. Speaker, I want to honor the Reverend Strong for his dedication to the U.S. Navy. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing John Strong many more years of continued success in life.