George Radanovich

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor VisionOne, Inc. for being an economic force that attracts high-tech skills and companies to the Fresno area, as well as delivering the most affordable e-business solutions and Internet technologies to the region. I had the privilege of attending VisionOne's ribbon cutting ceremony on July 8, 1999 as they officially opened their new Fresno location. VisionOne is a privately held international corporation that was founded in 1998, with United States headquarters in Fresno, and additional offices in Switzerland, Mexico, Germany, Chile, and Brazil. The specialty of VisionOne lies in their ability to provide user- maintainable e-business solutions and Internet technologies. Their mission is to help clients in various industries conduct cost-effective and successful online business. With a focus on e-business solutions and Internet technologies, VisionOne is strategically positioned as a force that will attract high-tech skills to the Central Valley. VisionOne is a creative company with a high-tech gut. Their philosophy is to never lose sight of the fact they are developing technology for users, not users for technology. The solutions VisionOne offers derive value to the extent they simplify lives and overcome business challenges. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to honor VisionOne for its commitment to the financial prosperity of Fresno and the Central Valley. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing VisionOne many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Clovis Chamber of Commerce 1999 Hall of Fame Inductees. The Award Winners for the Hall of Fame are: ``Founders Awards''--The Blasingame Family and The Sample Family; ``Hall of Fame Honorees''--The Clovis Rodeo Association--Everett ``Bud'' and Evelyn Rank, Wesley and Betty Wipf, and Mr. Shelby Cox; ``Clovis Way of Life''--Mr. & Mrs. Tom Stearns, Mr. & Mrs. Joe Ogas; ``Spirit of Clovis''--Mr. Dave Bens and Ellie Huston; ``Friends of Youth''--Mr. Harold Woods and Mr. James Countois; ``Citizen of the Year''--Mr. Tom Stearns; and ``The Sam Walton/WALMART Community Leadership Award''--Mr. Bob Daneke. The Hall of Fame Committee carefully selects each award winner according to a special criteria. The ``Clovis Way of Life'' award honors citizens who have strengthened the foundation of the City of Clovis. They have endured the economy by having a business in Clovis. The ``Clovis Way of Life'' winners are Joe & Marilyn Ogas and Tom & Burline Stearns. Joe and Marilyn Ogas own and operate Ace Trophy Shop. The Shop was operated out of their garage for many years and then was moved to Old Town Clovis where they are an integral part of the business community. Tom and Burline Stearns have been staunch supporters of Clovis. Tom is a member of the Clovis Rodeo Association; he has served from maintenance to President. Tom has made the Clovis Rodeo a premier event in the State of California. Tom Stearns also served as Mayor, Mayor Pro-Tem and now Council member. Burline Stearns has devoted her life to the Clovis Swim Team. She owned and operated the Mode O Day Store with her sister-in-law for several years. The ``Friends of Youth'' award winners are James Countois and Harold Lloyd Woods. James Countois, Mr. ``C'' as he is affectionately called, is 89 years old and his best friends are the five- to 12-year-old students at Dry Creek Elementary. James has volunteered at the Library for over 18 years. Recently, Dry Creek opened a new Library Media Center and named it after Mr. C, this was for a man who dedicated his whole life to children and the community. Harold Lloyd Woods has been a teacher in the Clovis Unified School District for over 41 years, specifically Room 20 at Jefferson Elementary School. Woods says that teaching children to set goals, helping them work toward achieving them, and then watching the joy on their faces when they succeed is one of the most valuable contributions we can make in their lives. The ``Spirit of Clovis'' award is present in recognition of people who in the line of their daily work succeed beyond their own expectations. The award goes to Dave Bens and Ellie Huston. In March of 1999, Dave Bens, Clovis High School's Athletic Director, was named California State Athletic Director's Association ``Athletic Director of the Year 1993-1999.'' This award recognizes the California Athletic Director who displays excellence in leadership on and off the field. Dave has brought recognition to himself, Clovis High, Clovis Unified School District and the Community of Clovis. Ellie Huston has worked hard raising money for the permanent Hall of Fame display for several years. She has done 95 percent of the work. Ellie has planned the Hall of Fame Raffles, solicited the prizes and sold over 200 tickets each year, she has raised close to $8,000 for the Clovis Hall of Fame Permanent Display. Ellie is an Executive Ambassador and a Past Director of the Clovis Chamber of Commerce. She is a very caring, community minded citizen of Clovis. The ``Founders Awards'' go to the Blasingame Family and the Sample Family. The Blasingame Family started with Jesse Augustus Blasingame, known as ``Jesse A''. He was a native of Talladega County, Alabama, and completed his time in the Mexican War. Jesse A. was then given ``scrip'' to buy land out west. Jesse A. married Mary Jane Sample, a native of Fresno County. They had a son, Jesse Knox Blasingame. Jesse Knox spent his entire life in the cattle business in Fresno County. He was very active in the California Cattlemen's Association, the Grange and the California Farm Bureau. Knox and his wife Thelma had two sons, Morgan and Knox Jr., and a daughter, Barbara. Morgan and Knox are still raising cattle in the Clovis foothills; Barbara lives in Fresno and still owns the land in the Clovis foothills. Both Knox Jr. and Barbara were extremely supportive and worked with the City of Clovis to secure the University of California Education Site near Academy, several years ago. The Blasingame Family has exhibited The Clovis Way of Life attributes; family, responsibility, work, honesty, independence, appropriate space, education, community service and loyalty. They are one of Clovis' most treasured legacies. The Sample Family departed from Mississippi with a large group and settled in the central San Joaquin Valley after the Civil War. David Cowan (D.C.) Sample married Sally Cole, who became the parents of 11 children whose descendants, still live in the Clovis-foothill area. Dr. Thomas Sample, one of D.C.'s sons, was an old-fashioned doctor in the best sense. He treated all that came for help, regardless of their ability to pay. He built the Sample Sanitarium in the 300 block of North Fulton Street; the building still stands today. DC Sample, affectionately known as ``Bud'' and Harry Sample stayed in the immediate area. Bud's children, Sally Sharer and Pug Perkins still live in Clovis. Harry's children, Bonner, Jane Craiger and Tommy live close by. One of Bonner's children is Captain Scotty who flies around the valley every morning giving us the traffic report. ``The Hall of Fame Honorees'' are The Clovis Rodeo Association, Sgt. Shelby Cox, Everett George ``Bud'' and Evelyn Rank, Wesley and Betty Wipf. The Clovis Independent Newspaper stated, ``Perhaps more than any other group or organization, The Clovis Rodeo Association exemplifies life in Clovis. For more than 80 years, the association has organized and operated the Clovis Rodeo, which has grown from a small gathering of working cowboys to a world-renowned event that was televised nationally for the first time this year. The Clovis Rodeo Association has served as Clovis' Ambassadors to the world, and has become an integral part of the history, stability and growth of the community of Clovis.'' Sgt. Shelby Cox--his dedication to the citizens of Clovis was always in the forefront during his nearly 35 years with the Clovis Police Department. He was active in community groups as well as department activities, and founded several of the Clovis Police Department's more popular programs. The goal of the Hall of Fame is to honor citizens that have made a difference; that have contributed to the growth and development of Clovis. Shelby has made a difference, he has contributed to ``the Clovis way of life.'' Everett George ``Bud'' and Evelyn Rank--Bud and Evelyn were raised on Clovis farms and graduated from Clovis High School. They were married and raised their family in Clovis. Bud, a member of the Clovis Rodeo Association since 1940, was active in the Clovis Young Farmers, California Young Farmers, Clovis Masonic Lodge, Clovis Grange, Clovis Farm Bureau and the Fresno County Farm Bureau. He served as Board President of the Fort Washington School, President, Vice President and Clerk of the Clovis Unified School Board--a charter Director of the Clovis Schools Foundation and was on the Board of Directors of the Clovis-Sanger Cotton Gin. They raised their daughters Ginny Hovsepian, Judy Rank and Pat Rank who remain in the area. Evelyn supported all of her husband's activities as well as serving as a Northwest Sunday school Kindergarten Teacher and a Deaconess for the Northwest Church. Evelyn worked for Congressman Pashayan's office and at the White House Greeting Office while they were in Washington, DC. She also participated with the Reagan Reelection Committee and served on the Reagan Inaugural Committee. Upon returning home, she served on Clovis School Bond Committees. The Ranks are avid football fans and have rarely missed a Clovis Unified School District home game. Wesley and Betty Wipf got married at 5 AM and have stayed married for over 51 years. Wes lived at Shaver Lake and moved to Clovis in 1940. While attending Clovis High School, he received the Sassano All American Blanket for Track. Wes went on to manage the Newberry's variety store in Clovis. He later opened the first donut shop in Clovis and then when Wiffee's Trophy Shop outgrew the bedroom in his home, he opened a shop on Fourth Street. Betty is the former Betty Pendergrass of the Clovis famed family. She became a teacher and taught at Weldon Elementary School for over 28 years. Betty still substitutes and is a ``Home Hospital Instructor.'' The Wipf's are members of the Clovis United Methodist Church, where Betty has been a member for over 50 years. Now in retirement the Wipf's have donated over 1,000 hours of work to the Clovis Hospital Guild; hours and hours of time to the Clovis Chamber of Commerce, and participate every morning with the Mall Walkers Group at the Sierra Vista Mall. ``Citizen of the Year''--Tom Stearns--Tom was born in West Fresno, went to local schools and relocated to Clovis in 1956. Tom and his wife, Burline, have three daughters and five grandchildren. Tom was raised on a small farm in West Fresno; he worked as a farm laborer through High School. Tom worked for PG&E from 1945-1993, he is now retired. Tom has been dedicated to the Clovis Community, having served on the Clovis City Council since 1983. Tom was Mayor, Mayor Pro Tem, and is currently serving out the remainder of a two-year term as a Council member. Tom has been a member of the Rodeo Association since 1981 and has served on most of the Rodeo Committees. Tom has been on the Board of Directors for the past seven years and is serving his first term as President. Tom was elected Citizen of the Year for his extensive participation with the Rodeo Association to enlarge the event to a three-day show and to help secure exposure on television through E.S.P.N. With his guidance as President and with the full support of the Rodeo Association Board, the Clovis Rodeo and the community of Clovis was brought to international attention. Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate all of the Clovis Chamber of Commerce 1999 Hall of Fame Inductees. Each of the winners is an outstanding citizen and deserves special recognition. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing each award winner many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Angus C. Bullis, a resident of Mariposa for many years. Angus died on September 19, 1999, he was 74. Mr. Bullis entered the service in 1941 where he served in the Navy Air Corps as a navigator until 1945. He started his painting contracting business in Fresno in 1956, and continued it for 43 years. Angus moved with his wife Helen and their family to Mariposa in 1968. Angus Bullis served on the Mariposa County School Board for 12 years. He was also active in many organizations: Oddfellows Lodge #39, Rebekah Lodge #326, Life Member-Mariposa Golden Agers, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Mariposa County Republican Central Committee, Mariposa County Farm Bureau as 4-H Council President, Mariposa Contractors Association, Mariposa Wine and Grape Growers Association and he received the Honorary PTA Service Award. Angus' hobby for the past seven years had been developing a seven- acre Zinfandel grape vineyard that produced gold medal award wines. Mr. Bullis is survived by his devoted wife of 48 years, Helen, his children and many family members and friends. Mr. Speaker, I extend my condolences to the Bullis family. I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring Angus Bullis for his devotion to his family, the community and the United States Navy Air Corps.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, to recognize Saint Agnes Medical Center for 70 years of compassionate care to central California. Saint Agnes has grown from a 75-bed hospital, to a 326-bed regional healthcare delivery system, providing state-of-the-art, comprehensive health care to people of the central valley. On August 4, 1929, Saint Agnes Medical Center opened its doors in Fresno a day earlier than planned to care for a little boy in need of emergency surgery. It is this commitment to compassionate care that central California residents have come to trust and rely upon over the past seven decades. As part of its ongoing effort to meet the healthcare needs of central California's growing population, Saint Agnes Medical Center is embarking on a major facilities expansion, which will include expansion of its cardiac services. Construction will begin in the year 2000. The mission statement reads as follows: ``We at Saint Agnes Medical Center, faithful to the spirit of the Sisters of the Holy Cross, strive to witness God's love through excellence in the delivery of health services. Motivated by compassion and respect, we respond to the health needs of the people of central California. We empower those who serve with us while stewarding human financial resources.'' Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize Saint Agnes Medical Center for their continued compassion and service to the central valley. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Saint Agnes Medical Center many more years of continued growth and success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the birth of Julia Marie Flowers. Julia is the third child of Major Craig Flowers and his lovely wife Beth, the 16th grandchild of Denzil and Barbara Garrison, the 5th grandchild of Lt. Col. Jim and Nancy Flowers and the younger sister to Kathleen and Annie. Julia arrived in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, on Wednesday, October 20th at 12:30 p.m., weighing in at a healthy 7 pounds 7 ounces and an impressive 20\1/2\ inches. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in offering our heartiest congratulations to the Flowers family and share their happiness with the arrival of darling Julia.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Richard Bertken, a native of the San Joaquin Valley. Dr. Bertken returned to Fresno after completing his studies at USC, UCLA, The George Washington University, and Stanford University. He was one of the first medical practitioners with the University of California San Francisco Medical School, Fresno. Dr. Bertken has officially retired from his government position with Veterans Administration Medical Center, but will continue to see patients as a consultant. Dr. Bertken achieved state of the art therapeutic modalities. Many patients with Rheumatological and Immunological problems awaited his expertise. In a short time, his patients graduated from wheel chairs to crutches, to full ambulation; for many, a return to full employment and to all, an improved quality of life. Dr. Bertken considered the needs of the whole person, displaying genuine concern. He is dedicated not to just lessen pain but to eliminate it and prevent disability. Dr. Bertken is a strong patient advocate, seeking access to the most recent approved medications and treatments for his patients. With his enthusiasm and positive attitude, he empowers patients under his care to take an active participation in their treatment plan through education and self-management. His vision for patients living quality productive lives include not just our veteran population, but also those he treats at the University Medical Center where he practices with the UCSF program. As a leader he has established a culture of integrity for both patients and staff, an accountable and truthful standard of practice in health care delivery. Mr. Speaker, I want to commend Dr. Bertken for his service to the community and his patients. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Dr. Richard Bertken many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Two Dog Net, a unique Internet environment designed specifically for children. It features a complete security system providing educational and entertaining children's content, secure email, games and more. Two Dog Net is the gateway to The Children's Internet, a collection of over a million pre-approved Internet pages accessed through Two Dog Net's ``kid friendly'' search engine. Two Dog Net is based in Northern California. Its mission is to become the dominant Internet portal for children ages 3-14 and their families, by featuring the unique combination of security, educational programming and compelling animation and sound. The company developed its patent-pending Safe Zone Technology which provides safe browsing for children Internet users. Two Dog Net has an award winning creative team that knows how to produce educational and entertaining content that children love. Two Dog Net uses animation and sound to captivate young users. The Company was developed by educators, who applied the Two Dog Net educational standards to all aspects of the development process. Two Dog Net will also be accessible in two languages including Spanish, Portuguese and French. The content of Two Dog Net is both personalized and age-specific. Children can get their name on their home page, and a special greeting on their birthday. Each age group offers fun and innovative themes for kids to choose from, making it fit their individual personalities. Mr. Speaker, I want to commend Two Dog Net for their child-safe Internet environment. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Two Dog Net many more years of continued success

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Taiwan's National Day. The Republic of China on Taiwan marked its National Day on October 10, 1999. Taiwan is a model democracy, representing progress, both economic and political. It has successfully weathered the Asian financial crisis and achieved notable political reforms in recent years. In terms of its relationship with the Chinese mainland, President Lee Teng-Hui has said on many occasions that he seeks peace and unification with the mainland under the principals of freedom, democracy, and equitable distribution of wealth. As I extend my best wishes to President Lee and the people in Taiwan, I also wish to express my condolences to all those families that have lost loved ones to the September 21 earthquake that hit the island, especially the central part of the island. My prayers are with those families that have been affected by the quake. Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate the people of Taiwan for their spirit of liberty, support for democracy and their strength to ensure hardships.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor His Excellency Vasken Sarkissian, the Prime Minister of Armenia. Mr. Sarkissian visited the United States Capitol earlier this month on the occasion of the birth of his niece, Dzovinar Sarkissian, on October 11, 1999. I want to congratulate the proud parents of Aram Sarkissian and his wife Arine, along with grandparents, Zavena and Gretta Sarkissian. Prime Minister Sarkissian is the former Defense Minister of Armenia. Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate Aram and Arine Sarkissian for the arrival of their child Dzovinar Sarkissian and I thank Prime Minister Vasken Sarkissian for making a visit to our nation's Capitol. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing the Sarkissian family many more years of good health and success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the birth of Douglas Wagner Moran. Douglas, the first child of Mary and Michael Moran of San Francisco, California, arrived on Friday, October 15th, 1999, at 7:45 a.m., weighing in at a healthy 7 pounds three ounces and an impressive 21\1/2\ inches. Mr. Speaker I request my colleagues in joining me in offering our heartiest congratulations to the Moran family and share their happiness in being new parents.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Judge Myron Donovan Crocker for his outstanding contributions to the community. As long as there has been an Eastern District of California, there has been a Judge Myron Donovan Crocker. Judge Crocker was born in Pasadena on September 4, 1915 and was raised in Fresno. He attended Fresno schools and graduated from Fresno High School in 1933 and Fresno State College in 1937. He received his law degree from the University of California, Boalt Hall, in May of 1940. His first job was with the FBI in New York, first in Albany and then in New York City during World War II handling counter-espionage matters. Judge Crocker and his wife Elaine were married in New York while he was stationed there. After the war ended, the FBI granted Crocker's request for a transfer closer to home and he was assigned to Los Angeles. In 1946, he entered private practice in Chowchilla and worked as Deputy District Attorney for Madera County. In 1951, he became Judge of the Chowchilla Justice Court, while continuing his private practice. He was appointed Superior Court Judge of Madera County in 1958, and remained there for only 1 year before his appointment to the Federal Bench. Upon Judge Crocker's appointment to the Federal Bench on September 21, 1959, he spent most of his time in Los Angeles and San Diego. At that time, the Federal court in Fresno was part of the Southern District of California. With redistricting in September, 1966, Judge Crocker became the Chief Judge of the Eastern District of California, and was the sole Federal judge in the Fresno district. His duties as Chief Judge included overseeing the completion of the Federal Courthouse in Fresno. Judge Crocker stepped down as Chief Judge in June 1967. Although the caseload in Fresno grew quickly after redistricting, Judge Crocker still traveled frequently to sit on cases throughout the United States, including being in Washington, D.C. in 1968 when Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. Judge Crocker remained the sole Federal judge in Fresno until 1979, when an additional judgeship was approved and Judge Edward D. Price was appointed. In 1981, Judge Crocker took Senior status and Judge Robert E. Coyle was appointed in his place. As a senior judge, Judge Crocker has continued to take cases and has made himself available for high profile cases outside his district. Judge Crocker is held in highest esteem by his peers, staff and the legal community for his legal ability, demeanor, kindness, and fairness. As a colleague stated, ``He is held in universal affectionate esteem.'' Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Judge Myron Donovan Crocker for his service to Fresno and the Eastern District of California on his 40th anniversary of service. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Judge Crocker many more years of continued success and happiness.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize David Borunda as President and CEO of Borunda Inc., along with Plaza Ventana Restaurant. Borunda Inc. is a corporation specializing in the food service business; and Plaza Ventana is a product of David's perseverance to become an entrepreneur. David Borunda originally established his business in 1977 by opening Plaza Mexican Restaurant. Due to the tremendous success of the restaurant, Borunda was invited to join the food court at Fresno's Manchester Mall, in which his operation became the largest volume food operation in the facility. Borunda's career further escalated in 1984 when he was invited to join the food court at Fresno's Fashion Faire Shopping Center. Thus, he opened his third location and immediately assumed the number one volume store in the food court. Branching away from food courts, Borunda opened a full sit down restaurant located in the Times Square Shopping Center in Fresno. Plaza Ventana was well received and immediately became a success. As a result, this location was expanded by an additional one thousand square feet, which included a full service bar and an additional dining area. Borunda was born and raised in Fresno, California and is well rooted in the community. He served as president of the California Restaurant Association Fresno Chapter in 1993 and 1994, and has over 50 employees. As proof of Borunda's enormous success, one has to look no further than the three Best Mexican Restaurant award, given by the California Restaurant Association, he has won. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to honor David Borunda for his tremendous success as an entrepreneur. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing David many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Madera College Center for the State Center Community College District. The Board of Trustees for the college held a groundbreaking ceremony for the first permanent building on their campus on September 24, 1999. The Madera Center has been in existence for approximately 15 years. The college offers a wide variety of programs and opportunities for students. The full-service campus includes a library, bookstore, distance learning classroom, cafeteria, and computer laboratories. Utilizing services and course catalogs from its sister institution, Reedley College, the Madera Community College Center is able to afford its students a choice of more than 40 Associate Degrees and Certificates of Achievement. The building for which ground was broken will consist of a lecture hall, library, classrooms, laboratories and offices. It is projected that the facility will be completed by August 2000, allowing for the attendance of students for the fall 2000 semester. In addition, parking lots and play fields will be installed as a part of this $12.7 million development project. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Madera College Center and its Board of Trustees, for their dedication to providing quality education to students in the Madera area. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing the Madera Center many more years of success and continued growth.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Anna Mae Francis Lynch on her 100th birthday. Anna Mae was born on October 5, 1899 in northern Arkansas. As a child, Anna taught herself to read and write before she started school. Anna went to the fields and worked side by side with her family, chopping cotton, pulling weeds from the cornfields, milking cows and picking cotton by hand. On February 25, 1916 at the age of 16, Anna married James Elmer Lynch secretly by the Justice of the Peace, in the woods, after attending a church singing. From this union, seven sons were born; six of the seven served with honor in World War II. In 1921, Anna and her family came to Coalinga to work and prosper in the oil fields. Then came the great depression and the oil fields closed down. The family headed back to Arkansas and then Texas, but returned to Coalinga to labor in the cotton fields of Rancher Johnny Conn of Coalinga. Anna was a mother, homemaker, a Bible school and singing teacher, and highly interested in Republican politics. Anna now resides in Coalinga. Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize Anna Mae Lynch for her hard work and dedication to her family. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Anna many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ed Peelman for his outstanding contributions to the community of Fresno. For half a century Ed Peelman has been a presence in the community, raising money for Christian causes, involved in conservative politics, making his mark in farming and later real estate. Nearly 25 years ago, he closed a successful hay business to start an even more successful real estate firm, Peelman Realty Co. Inc. Ed kept his hand in agriculture by specializing in rural property and continuing to farm his ranches. For the last five years, Peelman was the number one seller of rural property in Fresno County, averaging about $10 million in sales each year. Peelman uses his contacts and fund-raising skills to support conservative Christian causes. Ed helped Warner Pacific College in Portland, Oregon, the alma mater of two of his three daughters. He arranged for a former hay customer and friend to donate 2,100 acres, which he used to set up a trust for the college. That donation is now worth about $12 million. Peelman's attention in is now directed toward helping Fresno Pacific College. He has arranged for dozens of people to contribute to the college. Through the years, he has also been involved in numerous civic and church organizations. These days Ed concentrates on the Christian Business Men's Committee, the Fresno County and City Chamber of Commerce, Fresno City and County Historical Society, and the Full Gospel Business Men's Fellowship International. At 71, Peelman shows no signs of slowing down, despite a triple bypass surgery three years ago and a gall bladder operation two years ago. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Ed Peelman for his service to the community. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Ed and his family many more years of continued success and happiness.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Fresno, Madera, Mariposa and Tulare County Farm Bureaus' Young Farmers and Ranchers Program for providing the perfect arena to learn and become involved in current agriculture issues. The California Farm Bureau Federation's Young Farmers and Ranchers Program is an outstanding organization for young people between the ages of 18 and 35. Young Farmers and Ranchers (YF&R) gives individuals the opportunity to meet new friends who share similar interests, discuss problems and issues affecting agriculture and to make a difference with a voice in agriculture through YF&R, Farm Bureau and legislative involvement. YF&R are one of the most important entities of a county Farm Bureau. It provides leadership for tomorrow and new ideas to help the Farm Bureau keep up with the constantly changing world of today's agriculture. The Young Farmers and Ranchers Program offers an excellent opportunity to participate in activities designed to develop leadership and communication skills, and share in family activities through various motivational, educational, and social activities. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to recognize an extremely important organization that develops future leaders through the commitment of agriculture. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing the Fresno, Madera, Mariposa and Tulare County Farm Bureaus' Young Farmers and Ranchers Program many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize BASF for its outstanding contributions to the community. BASF is one of the world's leading agriculture product companies. Its products range from natural gas, oil, petrochemicals and innovative intermediates to high-value-added chemicals, crop protection agents and pharmaceuticals. Among BASF'S Hallmarks are its comprehensive know-how, highly developed integrated systems, which are called Verbund and a significant proportion of specialities. BASF has an enviable and long history of innovative crop protection technologies and agronomic systems. But perhaps nowhere is the rich legacy of BASF more evident than in the soybean industry. BASF also helps cotton growers around the world solve costly insect, disease, weed control and plant physiology problems in more than 50 crops. When it comes to weed control, BASF is the peanut producer's oldest and most reliable partner. BASF is also instrumental for its agricultural products in the crops of corn, rice, apples, citrus and fruits, and vegetables. All of BASF's products and services help to conserve and maintain values. As a company that operates throughout the world, BASF is responsible for the effects of its products and processes on humans and the environment. BASF is constantly looking for improvements in safety, environmental protection, and health. Founded in 1965, BASF is committed to being the best provider of knowledge and innovative solutions for crop protection, in the eyes of its customers, employees and the public. Mr. Speaker, I recognize BASF for its service to the community, nation and world. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing BASF many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in memory of Dr. David N. Jones, a former professor of Russian and Soviet History at California State University, Fresno (CSUF). David was also actively involved in the Fresno County Republican Central Committee. Dr. Jones is a native of West Virginia, grew up in North Carolina and was educated at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He joined the faculty at CSUF in 1970, after teaching at the University of California, Santa Barbara and Duke University. He was a demanding but sought-after teacher. The University and the community will sorely miss his erudition. He served the History Department in many capacities, most notably as Chair and as Graduate Advisor. He was an avid violinist and performed for many years with the Fresno state orchestra. He also enjoyed amateur theatricals and performed in many local productions. Many will remember him as Lesgate in ``Dial M. for Murder'' or Mr. Radley in ``To Kill a Mocking Bird.'' At the time of his death he was preparing to try out for the role of the fiddler in ``Fiddler on the Roof'' with the Roger Rockas Music Hall. David Jones was active in Republican Party Affairs from 1996-1998 as an elected member of the Fresno County Republican Central Committee. David is remembered by his wife, Laura; his stepchildren, Amber, Christopher, and Justin Weatherby of Fresno; his brother, Joseph Jones of Chapel Hill, NC; his sister, Karin Jones of Denver, CO, and numerous nephews, nieces, and cousins. Mr. Speaker, in remembrance of David N. Jones, I would like to acknowledge the happiness he brought to others and the respect so many held for him. I urge my colleagues to join with me in extending my condolences to the Jones family.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor William E. Chaltraw for his commitment to the Fresno community and his dedication for his countless hours of volunteer work. William E. Chaltraw, owner of Chaltraw & Associates, has 23 years of experience as a certified public accountant. His associates include his daughter Kristen, also a certified public accountant, and his wife Agnes, office manager of the family-owned business. Chaltraw moved to Fresno with his parental family in 1963 from Detroit, Mich. He later graduated summa cum laude from CSUF in 1976 and spent most of his years as a partner at Deloitte & Touche before hanging out a shingle bearing his family name. He also taught individual, partnership and corporate taxation at his alma mater for more than four years. Chaltraw is a man who seems to consistently take on additional responsibilities. Right now, he is the chairman of Community Medical Foundation's board of trustees and a member of Community Medical Center's corporate affairs committee. As chairman, Chaltraw's duties include overseeing the board's activities, meeting with corporate officers and volunteers and directing the goals the foundation has set. Community certainly isn't Chaltraw first experience with nonprofit organizations. His experience includes serving as president of the Fresno Metropolitan Rotary Club, past president of the Rotary Storyland/Playland board of trustees, and chairman of the taxation committee for the Fresno chapter of the California Society of Certified Public Accountants. He also serves as treasurer for the Bulldog foundation and set to be president of the foundation in the near future. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to honor William E. Chaltraw for his extraordinary leadership among local business and community activities. He has provided Fresno community with many years of outstanding commitment and handwork. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Chaltraw many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Lion Raisins on the Grand Opening of California's newest raisin processing facility. After four generations, Lion Raisins still strives to deliver quality and service beyond their customer's expectations. In 1903, Alex Lion established one of the first raisin packing facilities in Fresno, California, named Lion Raisins. He packed raisins for the first time, probably Muscats since that was the principal variety at that time. He shipped them by train to Chicago. The price of raisins dropped while they were in route, causing the buyers to reject them. Alex went by train to Chicago and spent several weeks there selling raisins on the streets. His packing career was somewhat sporadic after that, according to his grandson, Al Lion. The first actual packing was done on the farm that the family owned at Kings and Highland. Later they had a packing house on ``H'' Street, and then in 1923 or 1926 the packinghouse was built at the present site at California Avenue and Second Street. During this time Alfred Lion, Alex's son, was living in San Francisco and was involved in the selling there. His father called him back to take an active part in the packing operation. He took over the management after his father's death in 1963. Brother's Herb and Al entered the family business; Herb in 1947 and Al in 1957. For years, until Herb's retirement in 1991, the brothers shared responsibilities, with one managing the business end of the operation, and the other the packing. They alternated responsibilities every year. In recent years, Al's sons, Larry and John, were active in the business for a time. Larry worked from 1970 to 1981. John worked in the plant from 1974-1975. Herb Lion died in July 1995. Four generations later, Lion Raisins is the largest family owned and operated raisin processing facility in California. For nearly 100 years, the Lion family has been committed to the raisin industry and a vital part of the San Joaquin Valley. Today Lion Raisins processes nearly 50,000 tons of California raisins annually, and distributes them around the world under the Lion brand label. This has led them to be the largest independent raisin packing company in the area in terms of tonnage packed and sold. Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor that I rise to congratulate Lion Raisins in the grand opening of California's newest raisin processing facility. Lion Raisins has been a model business, after four generations of delivering quality and service beyond customer expectations; through commitment, pride, and integrity. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Lion Raisins many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Tony and Fermin Campos for making Campos Bros. Farms into a worldwide operation. Campos Bros. Farms provide almonds of tremendous quality, guided by traditional values of dedication, integrity and personal attention. Campos Bros. Farms is located in the heart of California's fertile San Joaquin Valley, in the small farming village of Caruthers. Fermin and Tony Campos moved to Caruthers from Spain in 1955. Almond growers the world over know of its almond paradise. Campos Bros. Farms maintains strict standards for each almond's color and size, and any defects are effectively removed. The Campos Bros. maintain their own testing facility for yeast, mold, aflatoxin and other quality issues affecting the international sale of their almonds. Campos Bros. Farms exceed every standard established by the United States and California Departments of Food and Agriculture, and has been recognized for its excellence in technical quality control. Quality almonds are the result of ideal growing conditions, timely harvest and careful handling. From the front office to their state-of- the-art almond processing facility, Campos Bros. Farms is a family-run business that's clean, orderly and organized. Campos Bros. Farms takes great pride in the fact that it has never missed a shipment, or even been late with one. Campos Bros. Farms has been an active supporter of Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Fresno, Boys Town of Italy, Central Valley Public Television and the surrounding elementary and high schools. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Tony and Fermin Campos, the founders of Campos Bros. Farms, for their outstanding service to the community with quality almonds. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Campos Bros. Farms many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Vie-Del Company and Dianne S. Nury CEO/President of the company for their success in the grape product industry. Vie-Del is located in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley and is a family owned business. It is one of the oldest and has been consistently among the largest suppliers of grape products to the wine, spirits, food and beverage industries. Vie-Del Company was founded on August 6, 1946 as a winery, distillery and fruit juice processor. Vie-Del is a major producer of wine, brandy, grape juice concentrates and a variety of other fruit products for bulk sale to the wine, spirits, food and beverage industries. Vie-Del produces only in bulk, with no labeled/retail products. Vie-Del operates two facilities, one located in Fresno and the other in Kingsburg. The total cooperage is approximately 50 million gallons. The warehouse facilities incorporate approximately 350,000 square feet in the Fresno plant alone. Vie-Del's concern for quality and service has grown the company to the level it is at today. They work closely with their customers in meeting product needs. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Vie-Del Company on their achievement as an established supplier of grape products to different industries. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Vie-Del Company many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Khalsa Panth's 300th birth anniversary. Khalsa Panth was born April 13, 1699 and is a figure of the Sikh community. The purpose of founding the Khalsa was to spread righteousness and to uproot the repression and injustice; to create love and harmony amongst humankind and to end evil hatred. Khalsa stands for gender equality; to instill self-confidence; to live a humble life with self-respect and serve the society as its honorable Sant Sipahi. The guidelines to the Sikh religion are as follows: Sikh's must have honest earnings, worship only one god, and share with the needy. They may only perform Sikh religious ceremonies and should meditate on God's name everyday. Sikh's must not commit any one of the four misdeeds: cutting or shaving of the hair, drinking alcohol, using any intoxicant, and using adultery. Sikh's must give service to the religious congregation without expecting anything in return. They must not worship idols, graves and mortals. Sikh's must always be ready to defend the weak and fight for justice and freedom. There are five symbols that have both practical and spiritual meaning for the Sikh's. Unshorn hair means moral and spiritual strength. A wooden comb is to keep the hair neat and tidy. The Sikh must always wear a turban and women must keep their heads covered with traditional heading or a turban. An Iron bracelet reminds a Sikh that he must keep himself away from bad deeds. Special tailored shorts remind a Sikh that he is not to indulge in adultery. A sword on the person of an Amritdhardi Sikh represents freedom. Last is political sovereignty. This reminds a Sikh of his duty to stand for truth, justice and righteousness. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Khalsa Panth's 300th birth anniversary. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing the Sikh community many more years of continued success and happiness.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the Hon. Jane Cardoza, Pilar De La Cruz, Gabriel Escalera, Frank C. Franco, and Dr. Cecilio Orozco for being selected as the 1999 Portraits of Success program honorees by KSEE 24 and Companies that Care. In celebration Hispanic-American Heritage Month for September, these five leaders were honored for their unique contributions to the betterment of their community. KSEE 24 and Companies that Care launched the 1999 Portraits of Success program to honor five distinguished local leaders in celebration of Hispanic-American Heritage month. Currently in its fifth year, this special project combines specially produced public service announcements, a five-part news series, plus an awards luncheon to publicly recognize the unique contributions of the Hon. Jane Cardoza, Pilar de la Cruz, Gabriel Escalera, Frank C. Franco and Dr. Cecilio Orozco. Since graduating from law school in 1981, Judge Cardoza started her law career in the Fresno County District Attorney's office, proceeding to the offices of the Fresno City Attorney and State Attorney General, Fresno County Municipal Court and now is the Presiding Judge of Family Law for the Fresno County Superior Court. She is active in the San Joaquin College of Law Board of Trustees, the Fresno Metropolitan Museum Board of Trustees, Fresno Metropolitan Rotary, Fresno City College Puente Project Mentoring Program and Domestic Violence Rountable. Pilar de la Cruz began her nursing career in 1969 at Fresno Community Hospital and has moved up the corporate ladder to become vice-president of Education Department at Fresno Community. She has been instrumental in the development of the Jefferson Job Institute, a program to provide training for parents of school children for entry-level jobs in hospital settings. Ms. De la Cruz was named 1998 Volunteer of the Year by the American Health Association and 1997 RN of the Year by the Central Valley Coalition of Nursing Organizations. She received the Latina Beyond Boundaries Award in Healthcare for 1998. Gabriel Escalera has been in the field of education for 27 years, as principal of Alta Sierra Intermediate School for five years and is the principal of Gateway High School. His college major was physical education; played football for San Diego State and was an athletic director and coached football and wrestling for 12 years. Mr. Escalera is president of the Fresno chapter of the Association of Mexican- American Educators and is also president of the Fresno chapter of ACSA. He is a member of the Latino Educational Issues Roundtable and numerous professional and service organizations. Mr. Franco is Business Development Manager for the Fresno County Economic Opportunities Commission and has been with the Commission for 16 years. He is Chairperson of the Board of the Metropolitan Flood Control District which is instrumental in developing new parks, is past president and board member of Central California Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Franco enjoys working for the benefit of children and serves as a board member for Genesis, Inc., a group home for girls that also provides substance abuse counseling for women. Dr. Orozco is Professor Emeritus at CSUF's School of Education. In 1980 in Utah he discovered the origins of the Nahaatl people, the ancestors of the Anasazi and Aztecs, and has repeatedly visited the sites. One of his proudest accomplishments was proposing the name of Miguel Hidalgo Elementary School which was the first school in Fresno to be named for a Hispanic, and this effort was partially responsible for his receiving the National Association for Bilingual Education's ``Pioneer In Bilingual Education Medal'' in 1997. Dr. Orozco published a book explaining the details of the Sun Stone of the Mexicas and the Aztec Calendar and in 1998 published (in Spanish) the essence of his research on the work of Lic. Alfonso Rivas Salmon which dealt with the origins of the Nahuatl people. Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize the contributions of Judge Jane Cardoza, Pilar De La Cruz, RN, Gabriel Escalera, Frank C. Franco, and Dr. Cecilio Orozco for the month of September, Hispanic-American Heritage Month. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing these honorees many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Suiting Up for Success project, which is a professional attire drive that benefits successful Fresno City College welfare-to-work students. In 1998, management consultant and human resource specialist, Sue McCombs of McCombs & Associates created ``Suiting Up for Success'', in response to the Central San Joaquin Valley communities double digit unemployment rates. ``Suiting Up for Success'' is a professional attire drive that benefits successful Fresno College welfare-to-work students that has approximately 1,000 students enrolled. Last year, 3,000 suits were collected. The 1999 goal is to collect 5,000 suits. All Fresno area business professionals are challenged to donate unwanted men's and women's suits, blouses, skirts, men's shirts, slacks and ties. Business attire collected is made available through a ``professional closet'' operated and maintained by Welfare-to-Work students. The only beneficiaries of the ``Suiting Up for Success'' campaign are successful Fresno City College Welfare Reform students (graduates). The project goals are to increase awareness of the welfare reform initiative and its impact on business owners. To provide our employees the opportunity to support and participate in the local welfare reform initiative. And to support and encourage current Fresno City College welfare program participants. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to recognize the ``Suiting Up for Success'' project, as they reach out to students who are less fortunate to have professional attire. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing ''Suiting Up for Success'' many more years of continued success.