George Radanovich

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the National Chamber Orchestra of Armenia (NCOA) for their performances around the world and genuine cultural representation of their country. The NCOA consists of 25 of the most accomplished instrumentalists in the young republic under the baton of Artistic Director and Principal Conductor Aram Gharabekian. They have been honored with great success in the past, such as representing Armenia in 1997 at the Cultural Capital of Europe Festival in Thessaloniki, Greece. And in December 1998, the orchestra released a compact disk through PolyGram/Germany presenting a synthesis of ancient and contemporary works of Armenian composers. At home, the NCOA performs every third week at the Komitas Chamber Music Hall in Yerevan. In addition, the orchestra performs around the globe and has toured Europe, South America, and the United States. Conductor Gharabekian was born in the Old World in 1955 and moved to the United States as a youth. He received his Master's Degree in Music Composition from the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston and engaged in postgraduate studies at Mainz University in Germany. Maestro Gharabekian's numerous honors include the Lucien Wulsin Performance Award for the best concert aired on National Public Radio; the American Society of Composers' Award for adventuresome programming; the Harvard Music Association's ``Best Performance Award,'' and the Boston Globe's ``Best of the Year'' designation. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to honor the achievements of the National Chamber Orchestra of Armenia, for being one of the leading instrumental groups of the Republic of Armenia and sharing such beautiful cultural music across the world. It is Principal Conductor Aram Gharabekian's exceptional leadership and devotion that has warranted this recognition, and has lead to the success of the orchestra. I ask my colleagues to join me in wishing the National Chamber Orchestra of Armenia and Conductor Gharabekian many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute The Very Reverend Father Kourken Yaralian who passed away December 17th 1998. Born Garo Yaralian on July 9, 1931, in Kessab, Syria, Der Hayr received his primary education at Ousoomnasiratz Miatzyal Varjaran. At age 14, he entered the seminary in Antelias, Lebanon, where he received his secondary diploma. After graduation, he returned to Kessab and taught children at the same school he previously attended. From this point on, youth education would become a vital aspect of his priestly responsibilities throughout his life. In 1954, he returned to the seminary to enter the priesthood, and in 1955 he married his only sweetheart, Anoush Hovsepian. On July 8, 1956, he was ordained Der Kourken. Der Kourken's first parish was St. Mary's in Beirut, and in 1959, the catholicos sent him to the United States to assist in the consecration and to become the first pastor of Sts. Vartanatz Armenian Church in Ridgefield, NJ. There he organized the church choir and established the Sunday School and Nareg Armenian Saturday School. Knowing the importance of assimilating into the American culture, he attended Fairleigh Dickinson University, where he furthered his English language skills. He was then accepted into the Master's program of Columbia University's Union Theological Seminary where he received his degree in Sacred Theology in 1963. During the Great Ecumenical movement, he was the first Armenian priest to receive membership in the World Council of Churches. After serving the Armenian community in New Jersey for nearly 8 years, Der Kourken was asked to preside as pastor for the parish of Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church in Fresno, and with Yeretzgin Anoush and their five children, he moved the family to California in 1966. At Holy Trinity, Der Kourken raised funds and brought new parishioners that would secure the church's financial future. He then set out to meet and seek the support of his peers and colleagues from other faiths with the hope to establish cooperation and support between the major churches and temples in Fresno. Together these religious leaders wove the fabric of the community. Der Kourken continued to be active in the local and Armenian community, and with the Sisters of Saint Agnes Hospital, he established the first hospice program in the San Joaquin Valley. Responding to the needs of Vietnam and other veterans of war, he served as Chaplain of Veterans Hospital for several years and provided counseling services in the hospital's drug and alcohol rehabilitation clinic. Der Kourken's influence extended into the political arena, supporting Armenian candidates for both local and State government offices. Of his many accolades, he was proud to be recognized by the Fresno County Board of Supervisors for his achievements in both civic and religious contributions to the Fresno Community at large. Of his major accomplishments, the one that gratified him most was the inception 22 years ago to establish the first Armenian Community Day School in the United States. He was recognized as the school's Founding Father. Always striving to better the Armenian community and to make the Armenian Church Services more accessible to the Church youth, Der Hayr devoted an immense effort in the translation, transliteration and final publications of The Sacred Music and Divine Liturgy of the Armenian Apostolic Church. The texts are now widely used in Armenian Churches throughout the U.S. Der Kourken also made major strides in promoting Armenian culture and religious music throughout the country. In 1984, in conjunction with the Music Department of San Francisco State University he initiated an accredited course in Armenian Church Music and Hymns, where he assisted in the music workshop instruction for the two semester course. In 1980, he established the first Armenian Church in Vancouver, BC; in 1984, the first Armenian Church in Salt Lake City; followed by the first Armenian Church in Boulder, CO, in 1985. Der Kourken passed away in his home Thursday, December 17, 1998. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to The Very Reverend Father Kourken Yaralian for his accomplishments and services to his community, the United States, and internationally. I urge my colleagues to join me in extending my condolences to the Yaralian family.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Jonelle Suzanne Garo, recently ordained Associate Pastor for Christian Education at California's Oldest Armenian Church. The Presbytery of San Joaquin also ordained Jonelle Suzanne Garo, M.Div. as a Minister of the World and Sacraments on Sunday, June 13. A native of Fresno, Garo received her early education at Carroll Baird Elementary School, Tenaya Middle School, and Bullard High School, where she lettered in varsity soccer and softball. She matriculated at California State University, Fresno for 2 years, reported for the Armenian Studies Newspaper, and played on the CSUF Women's Club Soccer Team. In 1990, Garo transferred to Westmont College in Santa Barbara and earned a bachelor of arts degree in sociology 2 years later. She worked here way through undergraduate school as a nanny for actress Jane Seymour, construction worker, retail associate sales, and food service/ catering assistant, among other things. In 1994, Garo was admitted to Princeton Theological Seminary, the oldest Presbyterian graduate school in America. During her course of study, Garo was a member of the Theological Students Fellowship and cochaired the Charles Hodge Society and Friday Night Fellowship. She served as a ministry intern at the Armenian Martyrs Congregational Church of Havertown, Pennsylvania and as a chaplain at the University of Pennsylvania and as a chaplain at the University of Pennsylvania Medical Center. Garo conducted youth ministries in New England and Canada under the auspices of the Armenian Evangelical Union of North America. She also engaged in missions work in the inner city of Newark and in the Republics of Mexico and Armenia. Upon her graduation in 1997, Garo undertook a 1-year Christian Education internship/practicum at her childhood church, the First Armenian Presbyterian Church of Fresno. Garo is the daughter of Philip and Elaine (Karabian) Garo of Fresno, married Kalem Kazarian of Fowler, CA, on July 24, 1999. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Jonelle Suzanne Garo Kazarian for her accomplishments as an ordained associate pastor for Christian Education in the oldest Armenian church. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Ms. Garo many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to William Mekalian who passed away on January 23, 1999, in Los Angeles, California at the University of Southern California Norris Cancer Center while he was being treated for an illness. Bill was born in Chicago, Illinois on July 10, 1933 during the Chicago World's Fair. After graduating from high school, Bill enrolled at the University of Illinois. However, he later decided that service to his country was more important and decided to join the U.S. Army in the summer of 1953 during the Korean War. After serving a few proud years in the military, Bill re-enrolled in school at Wright Junior College where he was selected to participate in the Carson Pirie Scott Executive Training Program. Bill's training motivated him to pursue career opportunities in California. It was 1961 when Bill decided to move with his parents to Fresno whereupon he secured a job with the Gottshalks Department Store. It did not take young Bill long to meet Claudette Chuchian of Bakersfield. He married Claudette, and settled in Fresno where they began their family. Bill continued his work as a sales executive, which led him to consider other business ventures including the formation of Javette Truck and Tractor. Over the years, the Javette Corporation grew into one of the leading independent heavy truck sales companies in the country. Bill is known as a kind and generous philanthropist. He was a dedicated father and carried a strong commitment to his family. Bill's proudest moment was when he witnessed his children graduate together from the University of Southern California. Bill was an avid toy collector. In fact, his impressive train collection rate as one of the best in the world. Several publications and a number of movie sets have featured Bill's collection. Some of his collection is displayed at the historic train museum in Old Sacramento. A leading toy train magazine recently referred to Bill as an ``authority on toy trains.'' Bill's civic involvement included membership to the Triple X Fraternity, an active member of the Republican National Committee, and a member of the St. Paul Church Parish Council. He is survived by his wife Claudette, his twin children: Yvette Mekalian Mandel of Laguna Hills, James Mekalian of Fresno, son-in-law Larry Mandell, and his two grandsons Alec and Ari Mandell. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Bill Mekalian for his accomplishments and service to his community. I urge my colleagues to join me in extending my condolences to the Mekalian family.

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 of 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 of 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 Roundtable. 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 Development 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 Heart 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 of 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 Nahuatl 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. These honorees will be recognized at a luncheon on September 13, 1999. 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. The kick-off event will be on September 21, 1999. 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 City 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 it's 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.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time on this issue, even though I oppose this legislation. I am not a lawyer, I am a small winery owner. I am one of more than 2,000 wineries in about 47 States, however, only 50 wines are available in a typical retail marketplace. More specifically, about 20 wineries produce 90 percent of all the wine produced. Despite this, sales of regional or limited availability of wine, of which there are perhaps over 10,000 labels, have grown. Unfortunately, at the same time the traditional distribution avenues have decreased from over 20,000 wholesalers to fewer than 400. These wholesalers are not sufficient to handle the shipment and delivery of wines from numerous small producers. Direct mail and the Internet, on the other hand, have helped these small wineries stay afloat, while at the same time helping to satisfy a growing consumer demand for smaller, lesser-known wines produced in this country. The reason H.R. 2031 is proposed is to stop these alternative avenues to market in favor of existing monopolistic wholesalers. The Twenty- First Amendment to the Constitution is not an absolute divestment of Federal power of the States. The U.S. Supreme Court has long established that the amendment has its limits and must be considered in the context of the constitutional provisions, including Congress' exclusive right to regulate interstate commerce. Proponents of this legislation claim that it is necessary to curb the delivery of alcohol products to underage purchasers. I believe that there are few more important causes than to stem the tide of underage drinking in this country, however, I am convinced that direct shipment of wine, beer, and spirits does not contribute to the problem. The two States with the highest consumption of wines, California and New York, have long permitted interstate shipments over the phone or by mail. Surely if these mechanisms were inherently open to abuse, the authorities in those States would have discovered that by now, but they have not. I am sure we can all remember when we were kids, when we were teenagers in high school and we stole our dad's credit card to order a $200 case of premium wine over the phone to have parties with our friends 30 days down the line. And in the meantime, 38 percent of those kids who go into retail stores in the District of Columbia to purchase beer over the counter succeed. So my advice to those that are so concerned about underage purchasers is to focus their direction where the problem really is. The issue is not an issue under this piece of legislation. The National Conference of State Legislatures recently passed a resolution that opposed legislation which allowed Federal interference in the purchase and delivery of wine across State borders. Forty-one States joined in the passing of the resolution, with only 7 States supporting this attempt to Federalize the laws. The Federal Government should not empower States to engage in this kind of activity. This is monopoly protection at its best. And even those wineries can ship into approximately 12 States now, they will, through the support of the attorneys general, limit that as well. I am a California farmer. In 1982, I established a small vineyard and winery in the Sierra foothill community of Mariposa, my hometown. The Radanovich Winery, which produces Sauvignon blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot, Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon, has grown to over 4,000 cases annually. Like most wineries, mine is small. Of the more than 2,000 wineries in this country, only 50 are available in a typical retail marketplace. More specifically, about 20 wineries produce 90% of all the wine produced. Despite this, sales of regional or limited availability wine--of which there are perhaps over ten thousand labels--have grown. Unfortunately, traditional distribution avenues are insufficient for the shipment and delivery of wines from these numerous small producers. Direct mail, the Internet and other alternative forms of distribution have helped these small wineries stay afloat, while at the same time helping to satisfy the growing consumer demand for smaller, lesser known wines produced in this country. Grape growing is a very important agricultural crop, the largest crop in California and the sixth largest crop in the nation. Over 60% of the grape crop is used in the production of wine. The resulting wine industry in total annually contributes over $45 billion to the American economy; provides 556,000 jobs, accounting for $12.8 billion in wages; and pays $3.3 billion in state and local tax revenues. In addition, wine is our third largest horticultural export. Wine is commercially produced in 47 states. Consumers in every state should be able to obtain access to a wide variety of wines, especially the wines of small producers who lack the distribution channels of the major wine producers in this nation. To meet these consumer needs, I point to the 20 states which have chosen to enact limited interstate shipments directly from winery to consumer or retailer to consumer. Intrastate direct shipments are legal in 30 states. I also direct your attention to recently passed ``shipper permit'' legislation in New Hampshire and Louisiana and to the special order system developed and implemented by the Pennsylvania state liquor monopoly. I am concerned that passage of the proposed legislation would have a chilling effect on efforts underway to craft creative state-by-state solutions such as these. Legislation to allow states to bring to Federal court an action to enjoin shipment or transportation of liquor in violation of the laws of a particular state would have the unintended consequence of crippling small wineries in this country. The proposed legislation does much more than simply providing a remedy for a violation of the Webb-Kenyon statute that generally governs states authority over interstate shipments. I fear that it will authorize a state to erect discriminatory barriers to interstate commerce, which will be used to favor in-state commercial interests to the detriment of out-of-state wine producers. The Commerce Clause protects against state imposed barriers to free trade. That protection should apply to wineries as well as all other businesses. The twenty-first amendment to the Constitution is not an absolute divestment of Federal power to the States. The U.S. Supreme Court has long established that the amendment has its limits and must be considered in the context of other constitutional provisions, including Congresses exclusive right to regulate interstate commerce. Further, existing remedies are available for violations of liquor laws. In the case of wine (as with harder liquors) there is an underlying federal permit which is required to operate a winery. That permit is subject to oversight by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, and requires conformance to applicable laws. There have been successful compliance actions through this mechanism. An additional mechanism is not necessary. Professor Jesse H. Choper, a distinguished scholar in the field of constitutional law from the University of California has written expressing his concerns about the possible consequences of Federal legislation in this arena. Professor Choper concludes that the proposed legislation would violate the Commerce Clause protection against barriers to free trade among the states, by allowing states, rather than the Congress, to establish those barriers. I am also concerned that the thrust of this legislation is to allow states to use the Federal courts to obtain direct jurisdiction over small businesses located in other states in a manner which invites abuse of the court system and a trampling of the rights of out-of-state citizens in order to satisfy the demands of politically powerful local interests. Allowing the federal courts to be used as enforcement machinery for state action seems to me a huge expansion of federalism and a very dangerous precedent. Proponents of this legislation claim it is necessary to curb the delivery of alcohol product to underage purchasers. I believe that there are few more important causes than to stem the tide of underage drinking in this country. A Health and Human Services survey reflects that more than half of 18-20 year olds were drinking alcohol in the month prior to the survey, and an astonishing quarter of that age group have engaged in binge drinking during the same period. However, I am convinced that direct shipment of wine, beer or spirits does not contribute to the problem. The two states with the highest consumption of wines--California and New York--have long permitted Intrastate shipments ordered by phone or mail. Surely, if such mechanisms were inherently open to abuse the authorities in those states would have discovered that by now. But they have not. Manuel Espinoza, Chief Deputy Director of the California Alcoholic Beverage Control agency has written to Congressman Thompson and myself that as a result of remote sales of alcohol in California, a practice that has been legal for almost fifty years, the state has experienced no enforcement problems or impediments in its ability to enforce laws related to sales to minors. California has only received one complaint about the delivery of alcohol to underage recipients via interstate mail orders. That complaint originated from a privately organized ``sting'' and subsequent investigation determined that the actual delivery, though left at the door, was accepted by the minor's mother. Another concern raised by proponents is the avoidance of state excise taxes by interstate shippers. There is no indication that taxes avoided by shippers constitute a significant loss of revenue to any state. It is estimate that interstate direct shipments consist primarily of ultra premium wine and never constitute more than one-half of one percent of a state's total wine volume. For the entire country, a tax loss of that magnitude would be $2 million annually. For the State of Maryland, even if it were to allow direct shipment of wine, annual tax losses at full volume would be less than $20,000 per year. To address even this minuscule problem, forty-one members of California's Congressional delegation have written to the Advisory Commission on Electronic Commerce requesting that the Commission address this problem when it examines means to ensure the fair imposition of consumption, sales and use taxes arising from remote sales of all products, a far more significant revenue problem estimated to involve many billions of dollars in lost revenue. Congress established this Commission for just such a purpose, and this member suggests that we wait for the report we requested of them. Legislation which preempts the Advisory Commission on Electronic Commerce regarding wine will have the effect of setting a precedent in regulation of the Internet before the Commission has done its' work. We are moving into an arena that all of us have not had the opportunity to think through, and our narrow attempts with wine may end up with far- reaching impacts on the sale of anything through the Internet. That is why Andy Sernovitz, the President of the Association for Interactive Media (AIM) a 300 member Internet trade group, said; ``If they can stop you from selling wine on the Internet, books and music are next.'' Mr. Chairman, the National Conference on State Legislatures recently passed a resolution that opposed legislation which allowed federal interference in the purchase and delivery of wine across state borders.'' Forty-one states joined in passing that resolution, with only 7 states supporting this bodies attempt to federalize state laws. Mr. Chairman, I am not convinced there is an urgent national problem which needs to be solved by allowing virtually unprecedented use of federal courts to solve state problems which can be addressed by state legislative and judicial means. States can make it a crime for a person under 21 to attempt to purchase alcohol. Most have. Why don't the Attorneys general in the states prosecute their own citizens when they violate state laws? Rather than the proposed legislation, alternatives include legislation which would encourage the development of open markets so that consumers can have access to the products which they wish to purchase. I close by quoting for you from a letter by Florida Attorney General Robert Butterworth urging the veto of a bill making direct interstate shipment of wine to a Florida consumer a felony: ``[The bill] is the perfect tool for the vested interests who seek additional control over the marketplace, at the expense of competition and consumer choice.'' The federal government should not empower states to engage in anti- competitive actions favoring their in-state businesses. The federal government should not use the power of the courts to suppress competition. The federal government should not expand its reach into the private purchases of consumers, or the activities of the small businesses, which make up the largest part of the wine business. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman once again for yielding me this time, but I must ask my colleagues to join me in opposing the bill.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Jan Duke for receiving the prestigious Milken Educator Award. Duke teaches fourth grade at John Adam's Elementary School in the Madera Unified School District. Jan Duke was one of four teachers in California to receive this honor, and one of 160 to be honored nationwide. She is the first from Madera Unified School District to be given this award. Beyond her role as an exemplary teacher, Jan is a skilled writer and presenter. Duke has written two books on teaching fourth-graders and co-authored, with her husband, a book on teaching individuals to read. She also advises national scholastic book clubs on what literature would be best for children. In addition, she conducts 5 to 20 seminars annually for fourth-grade teachers nationwide. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Jan Duke for her achievements and service to the community. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Jan many more years of continued success and happiness.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Rodger Jensen for receiving the 1999 Community Salute honor. Mr. Jensen is being honored for his dedication and leadership in agriculture, and the local community. Rodger Jensen is President of S and J Ranch in Madera, a farm management company that began in 1950 with 2,600 acres of open land, dry-farmed for barley and wheat. Today, S and J farms citrus, nuts, and olives in Madera, Merced, Fresno, Kern, and Tulare Counties. The company also manages thousands of acres of permanent crops and boasts a commercial citrus and pistachio nursery and an insectary. in order to ensure the success of these crops and entities, S and J employs 97 full-time non-harvest personnel and as many as 500 harvest employees. Rodger's work at S and J Ranch is not his only contribution to Valley agriculture. Twenty years ago, Rodger, along with several faculty, alumni, and friends of California State University, Fresno, had a million-dollar idea. They wanted to start a foundation that would benefit, promote, and support the School of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, along with its programs. The supporters set out to raise $1 million in endowed scholarships. Today, their success is apparent, as the Ag One Endowment Fund stands at over $1.4 million and indications are that $2 million will be reached by the end of this year. Rodger Jensen, a 1941 Fresno State graduate, has touched the lives of countless young people through his involvement in Ag One, the School and University, Valley Children's Hospital, the San Joaquin River Parkway Trust, the Boy Scouts, and many other organizations. Rodger Jensen is also involved in many professional affiliations including: The California Pistachio Commission--Board of Directors, the California Chamber of Commerce--Board of Directors, the California Commission of Agriculture, the California Pistachio Association-- President, Chairman, the Fresno City & County Chamber of Commerce-- Board of Directors, the Fresno County Farm Bureau--Board of Directors, and the Western Pistachio Association--Board of Directors. Mr. Jensen has contributed to the agriculture food business by serving on many boards. In previous years, he served on the boards of Mid-Cal Citrus Exchange, Sunkist Growers, and the Fruit Growers Supply. During his many years of involvement in agriculture and the community Rodger has received numerous awards. He was given the School of Agriculture Distinguished Service Award in 1980, the Fresno Foundation Award in 1989, and the FSU Alumni Arthur Safstrom Award in 1995. Mr. Jensen was also named Ag USA Citrus Farmer of the Year in 1967. Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize Rodger Jensen for his dedication to the community and the agriculture industry. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Mr. Jensen many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dino Petrucci for receiving the Senior Farmer of the Year Award. Dino Petrucci's efforts to educate and inspire young people toward agriculture render him deserving of this award. Dino was born on a farm in Madera and still lives on the property his family cultivated while he was growing up. He attended Howard Elementary School, graduated from Madera High School in 1947, and earned a college degree in Crop Science from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. During his four years at Madera High, Dino was actively involved in student government and the Future Farmers of America. He was elected Student Body Vice President and Senior Class Speaker. He also served as Chapter President of FFA and won the FAA State Speaking contest. Petrucci went on to hold numerous leadership positions in various organizations as a young adult. He was elected the State FFA President and was a National Public Speaker at the National FFA Convention in Kansas City. In addition, he served as President of the Crop Science Department at Cal Poly. Mr. Petrucci was successful in his undertakings on behalf of these organizations and in his academic endeavors. He earned the coveted American Farmer Degree and co-authored a book that was used in school agriculture departments across the state. After college, Dino began his teaching career in the Ag Department in Victorville. Two years later, he returned to Madera and embarked upon a 29-year career with the Madera High Ag Department. During this time, Dino was actively farming a variety of crops with his brother, Enzo. Dino and wife Peggy were also raising a family of two children and supporting them on their 4-H and FFA projects. Many of his former students attest that Mr. Petrucci was a committed teacher, giving more hours than were required of him. For fifteen years, he advised the California Young Farmers and was instrumental in the Madera Chapter receiving recognition as ``Outstanding Chapter'' for many of those years. He also served as State President of the California Ag Teachers Association, and found time to serve as Chairman of the Livestock Department at the Madera District Fair. While balancing a family and career Dino has made time for community involvement by serving as President of the Lion's Club, President of Madera Toastmasters, and President of Madera County Farm Bureau. He was also elected last year to serve as a Trustee on the Madera Unified School District Board. In addition, Mr. Petrucci began the MUST Center and served as its Director for two years. This program was designed to teach vocational skills to the underprivileged to order to afford them better job opportunities. Currently, Petrucci is actively involved at Howard Elementary School where he attended as a boy, his children attended, and his grandchildren now attend. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dino Petrucci for his outstanding accomplishments and service to his community. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Dino many more years of continued success and happiness.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, if the gentleman would continue to yield, I thank him for his continued support on this matter. With this assurance, my colleagues and I will feel much more confident in supporting this bill.

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Nebraska (Mr. Bereuter) for his leadership in bringing this bill to the floor. I share the gentleman's vision in promoting greater regional cooperation, supporting increased economic integration, and facilitating the free flow of transportation and communication among the States of the Caucasus and Central Asia. While I support these goals, I along with many of my colleagues, remain concerned that this legislation may, at a subsequent step in the legislative process, become a vehicle for the weakening or the repeal of Section 907 of the Freedom Support Act. Mr. Speaker, it is my understanding that this bill is being brought forth today with the clear understanding that Section 907 of the Freedom Support Act will remain in place and unchanged throughout the remaining legislative process.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jacque Cortez upon her selection by Visalia-area schools as a ``Good Kid.'' Jacque was chosen based on her academic achievements, classroom leadership, and efforts in literature and music. The ``Good Kid'' program was formed in an effort to provide students with positive reinforcement. The program allows Visalia teachers to nominate students, who have excelled in academics and demonstrated a good work ethic, for recognition in the Visalia Times Delta newspaper. Those individuals selected are mentioned in a piece featured daily in the Times Delta. Jacque Cortez, who was nominated by her fifth grade teacher, currently attends sixth grade at Willow Glen Elementary in Visalia, California. Throughout Jacque's years at Willow Glen, faculty and classmates alike have considered her a leader who is eager to learn and always willing to assist others. Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize Jacque Cortez for being selected as a ``Good Kid.'' I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Jacque continued success in her academic and extracurricular pursuits.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Clovis native Yoshito Takahashi. Mr. Takahashi is among the 34 recipients worldwide to win a Medal of Honor from Japan's Minister for Foreign Affairs. The award is the Order of the Sacred Treasure, Gold and Silver Rays for his contributions to improving the status of Japanese Americans and the promotion of judo. In this country, the award is typically given for promoting U.S.-Japan relations and community service. Fifteen people garnered the award in the United States. Mr. Takahashi has left an indelible mark on healthcare in California's San Joaquin Valley. He helped build the first hospital in Clovis in 1950, and more recently participated in building a newer one. This hospital is a state-of-the-art healthcare facility serving not only the Clovis area but also the nearby mountain communities, including Yosemite National Park. For his service to the community and to healthcare, he was given a proclamation from the Mayor of the city of Fresno. The Board of the Community Health Foundation, which Mr. Takahashi served on for nine years, also recognized him at their annual Community Circle dinner in 1996. Mr. Takahashi began his relationship with Community Hospitals of Central California (CHCC) when he joined the Board of Clovis Memorial Hospital in 1975. As a board member, he served on the Corporate Affairs Committee, the Long-Range Planning Committee, and the Physicians Relations Committee. Mr. Takahashi also served on the Audit Committee and the Quality Assurance Committee at Clovis Hospital. He continued to serve on the CHCC Foundation Board and until 1977, he was a member of the Foundation Committee responsible for Finance and Asset Management. As he left his formal association with Community Hospitals of Central California, he left a relationship that started with a 40-bed hospital in Clovis and ended with much more. He was responsible for policy and support to a Community Healthcare System with an annual operating budget of over $300 million and 1,000 beds, reaching out to people from Modesto to Bakersfield. Mr. Takahashi has also been active in numerous community organizations and held various leadership positions within them. He has been involved with the Clovis Chamber of Commerce, the Clovis Unified School District Foundation, and the Legacy Fund for the JCL. Mr. Takahashi was a Fresno County representative to the California Freestone Peach Association, served as past Director of the Clovis Rotary Club, secretary-treasurer of the Clovis District Coordinating Council, Director/Founder of Clovis Community Bank, and as president of the Clovis Japanese American National Museum in Los Angeles and is an active member of the Fresno Buddhist Church, of which he has been a member for 50 years. Mr. Takahashi believes that participation in competitive sports is as important as community involvement. He has been president of the Central California Amateur Union and a life member of the Amateur Athletic Union of the United States since 1974. Mr. Takahashi also served on the Jr. Olympic Judo Committee for 20 years and was an officer of the Central California Judo Black Belt Association. Yoshito Takahashi has received numerous awards for his extensive community involvement. In 1977, he was named Clovis Citizen of the Year. Two years later, he was inducted into the Clovis Citizens Hall of Fame. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Yoshito Takahashi for his time and service to his community and for promoting U.S. and Japan relations. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Mr. Takahashi, his wife, and family, many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Chairman, I would like to recognize and address the continued contributions made by the Republic of Croatia. Croatia emerged from years of oppressive Communist control in 1991 and approved a new constitution and elected a parliament. Croatia's modern parliamentary democracy is charged with guaranteeing fundamental human rights, freedom of expression and respect for private property. Croatia has also been a loyal and valuable ally of the United States, as we have recently witnessed during the Kosovo crisis. Having a reliable partner in the strategic and volatile region of southeastern Europe can only help to prevent future crises and aggression. Croatia deserves commendation for its clear desire to stand with the United States and the West, as evidenced by its support of U.S.-NATO policy in the Balkans including S-4 and Operation Allied Force. People, few people, realize how helpful Croatia was during NATO's Operation Allied Force. Croatia closed its oil pipelines to Yugoslavia, which was later recognized as a key element in Milosevic's decision to surrender. Croatia opened its airspace and its ports for NATO's unrestricted use. Croatia also emerged as one of the most vocal advocates for stability in southeastern Europe during the negotiations and on the newly launched stability pact for that region. Croatia meets all the requirements for partnership for peace especially regarding defense related cooperation, perhaps even more so than some of its current members. Croatia should be evaluated for membership in the partnership for peace at the earliest possible opportunity. I believe that the United States should work closely with Croatia to ensure that every opportunity is provided.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Hmong Youth Foundation's Fourth Annual Summer Festival. This Festival is a successful answer in an effort to provide Hmong Youth, many of whom are challenged with language barriers, with opportunities to engage in fun, and educational activities. The Foundation was organized to give Hmong Youth a place where students can congregate as colleagues holding common fears, hopes and goals. The primary objective is to give students opportunities to excel in academic pursuits and to award scholarships. Before awarding scholarships, a strong after school infrastructure must be developed to provide a learning center and good environment. Many of the students come from economically disadvantaged families due to the fact that a majority of Hmong adults are unable to speak English. The result is that many Hmong adults are unable to hold higher paying jobs. Hmong youth are constantly challenged due to the difficulties of social assimilation, lost opportunities and juvenile crime temptations. The Hmong Youth Foundation seeks to give every child the opportunity to succeed and overcome negative obstacles. The Foundation pursues every avenue available through collaboration with other Hmong and Southeast refugee self-help organizations, as well as non-Asian agencies. The response has been very positive, as the Foundation does not duplicate any existing service provider's intent. Hmong students in Fresno County have excelled in academic excellence and thus, have received many accolades. Among them are annual Hmong valedictorians in the Fresno and Clovis Unified School Districts. The Hmong Youth Foundation's intent is to help as many students as possible so that even greater success will follow. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Hmong Youth Foundation for its service to the community. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing the foundation many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor James D. McElhannon as he has been awarded with the nation's Military Order of the Purple Heart Award. James D. McElhannon is a resident of Lemoore, and a retired Master Sergeant of the Korean War. During his time served in Korea, he was wounded in the battle for the Naktong River on September 10-20, 1950. Sergeant McElhannon was leading his platoon (2nd platoon, Charlie, 3rd combat Engineer Battalion) on a night reconnaissance when enemy forces began firing their weapons. McElhannon was wounded by a mortar attack, receiving shrapnel in his leg. He refused medical attention in order to continue his mission. Though losing blood through the night, Sergeant McElhannon used his own bayonet to remove the shrapnel in his leg. The 2nd Platoon Charlie Company held fast did not withdraw until the platoon was officially relieved. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to honor James D. McElhannon for his bravery and commitment in the Korean War. His courage has lead him to receive the nation's Military Order of the Purple Heart Award. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing James McElhannon many more years of success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Pelco, a world leader in the design, development and manufacture of advanced closed circuit televisions systems and supporting equipment. Pelco has a long prestigious history of offering high quality products and exceptional customer service. Pelco has become the most sought after product supplier in the industry. Pelco operates from the largest CCTV manufacturing complex in the world. They produce a steady stream of enclosures, domes, mounts, pan/ tilt units, matrix systems, and other CCTV electronic products in a never-ending pursuit of achieving 100 percent off-the-shelf- availability for its customers. Pelco is respected as a major product innovator. They manufacture a large number of special equipment item including explosion-proof and water-cooled camera enclosures, high security housing, and a series of award-winning microwave control/video systems. Pelco also produces the industry-acclaimed Legacy and Intercept product lines, each designed around Pelco's revolutionary Coaxitron video/control platform of single coax operation. Pelco constantly strives to maintain its position as the most reliable supplier of CCTV systems in the industry. The company has established an impressive array of customers service programs including: Guaranteed Ship Dates, 24-hour Technical Assistance and 24- hour Turnaround on Replacement Parts and Repairs. Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate Pelco for their achievements in becoming a world leader in the closed circuit video market. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Pelco many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Hmong Youth Foundation's Third Annual Summer Festival. This Festival provides Hmong youth, many of whom are challenged with language barriers, with opportunities to engage in fun and educational activities. The Foundation was organized to give Hmong students a place to congregate as colleagues, who share common fears, hopes and goals. The primary objective is to give students opportunities to excel in academic pursuits and to award scholarships. Many of the students come from economically disadvantaged families due, in part, to the fact that a majority of Hmong adults are unable to speak English. The result is that many Hmong adults are unable to hold higher paying jobs. Hmong youth are constantly challenged with difficulties of social assimilation, lost opportunities, and juvenile crime temptations. The Hmong Youth Foundation seeks to give every Hmong child the opportunity to succeed and overcome obstacles. The Foundation pursue these goals through every avenue available including collaborations with other Hmong and Southeast Asian refugee self-help organizations, as well as non-Asian agencies. Response to the Foundation has been very positive, as it is providing a service to the Hmong community that no other agency offers. Hmong students in Fresno County have excelled in academic excellence and have received many accolades. Among them are annual Hmong valedictorians in the Fresno and Clovis Unified School Districts. The Hmong Youth Foundation's intent is to help as many students as possible so that even greater success will follow. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Hmong Youth Foundation for its service to the community. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing the Foundation many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize First American Title Company for devoting themselves to the improvement and development of the City of Clovis, California. Through many activities and events, First American Title Company has devoted countless hours to the development and enhancement of the County of Fresno, specifically the City of Clovis. One of America's oldest and largest real estate related financial services companies celebrated its centennial in 1989. The First American Financial Corporation traces its roots back to 1889 when what was then rural Orange County, California, split off from the County of Los Angeles. At that time, title matters in the brand-new county were handled by two firms--the Orange County Abstract Company and the Santa Ana Abstract Company. In 1894, C.E. Parker, a local businessman, succeeded in merging the two competitors into a single entity, the Orange County Title Company, the immediate predecessor of today's First American Title Insurance Company. Later, the company took a new name, First American, and expanded the geographic scope of its operations. In 1968, the firm was restructured into a general holding company, The First American Financial Corporation, conducting its title operations through First American Title Insurance Company and its subsidiaries. Existing title and abstract companies were purchased, new offices were established, and agency contacts were negotiated. Through a well-planned and managed expansion program, First American built an organization that serves every region of the country. The Company operates through a network of more than 300 offices and 4,000 agents in each of the 50 states. It provides title services abroad in Australia, the Bahamas, Canada, Guam, Mexico, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the United Kingdom. First American's business practices are a blend of the newest techniques and technologies with the old, tried and true ways of providing personal service. The critical ingredient in the company's formula for success is people. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize First American Title Company as a leader in the community. 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 recognize Dennis Perkins and The Brownie Baker for winning the Small Business of the Year Award in 1999. The Brownie Baker bakes and sells a variety of brownies, muffins, and cookies on a wholesale basis, primarily to the convenience store industry. The Brownie Baker started as a family business with Marion Peterson and her sister, Susie Spotts. Dennis Perkins, then the Director of Business Development for Pepsi-Cola, bought the business on August 1, 1990. The company has expanded its markets and the financial reports reflect this. Accounts are concentrated in California, but expand nationwide. Perkins has done an excellent job operating the company as evidenced by its growth. Sales were 1.8 million as of June 30, 1994. They have more than doubled since that time to 3.9 million as of June 30, 1998. Perkins reorganized the means of distribution, increased product size, developed new products, changed the labels, bought a larger bakery, and bought out a competitor called Carol's Cookies. This acquisition has increased sales nearly 50 percent, growing the company from five to 48 employees. During 1998, Perkins installed a completely automated muffin line, and also many new technologically advanced money and time savers for the company. Nearly a third of those employed at the bakery are Southeast Asian refugees placed there through the CalWORKS program. The Brownie Baker will be diversifying its line by adding Mexican pastries. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize The Brownie Baker for its accomplishments. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Dennis Perkins and The Brownie Baker many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Gary Cocola for his service to the Fresno community through his broadcast television stations. While attending Memorial High School in Fresno, Cocola received inspiration to pursue a career in broadcasting. He was one of the local high school students chosen to participate in a television program called ``Open House.'' He continued to participate in other activities on radio and television, including a Top 40 show with a dance party format that aired in Bakersfield. Cocola enrolled at Fresno State to pursue a degree in radio and television. He added a minor in business in the event that his father may need him. His father, Morris Cocola, owned the family's tree fruit and grape growing, packing and shipping business. But Gary Cocola's passion was for the television business. In 1962, Cocola found an agent in Los Angeles and considered entering the highly competitive Southern California media market. Cocola's agent dissuaded him from this, which caused Cocola to become discouraged. So, he entered his father's business and began a career in sales. Cocola excelled at his business and by 1970 he formed the Cocola Fruit Corporation that allowed him to be a dealer and broker as well as a commercial merchant. Cocola was financially well off, but was not entirely happy with his job. His dream was to return to broadcasting. With the help of his wife Diane Dostinch, he applied to put a local full power station on the air in 1977. After successfully completing the Federal Communications Commission's lengthy application process, the station was finally built in 1984. In 1985, his station, KMSG, began as a Christian station. He has visions to create a station resembling MTV, but it was not commercially feasible. Cocola began branching out into the low power channels he was accumulating. At a cable television convention, Colcola met Bud Paxson, the founder of the Home Shopping channel. In 1987, Cocola entered the shopping channel market. In 1988, the Spanish News Network out of New York City contacted KMSG, and Cocola converted the channel to Telemundo 59. As the 80's went by, Cocola continued to expand his ownership of the low power channels not offered on cable TV. He added more shopping channels, a pay for view music TV channel, and a classic movie channel. Today his broadcast empire includes 10 stations owned locally, including a full power station, Channel 43, and an additional five channels in other locations throughout the United States. One station is a full power channel in Omaha, Nebraska and another is a low power station that delivers a new concept in Internet access. This new idea will use broadcast to deliver access to the Internet at a faster speed than the current linkups allow. Cocola has provided a service to many community members without cable by bringing them news, public affairs and entertainment for free. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Gary Cocola for his service to the community. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing Gary many more years of continued success and happiness.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Building Industry Association (BIA) on their 10th anniversary of business. Over the past decade, the BIA has had a positive impact on the home building industry. The Building Industry Association of Tulare and Kings Counties was chartered by the National Association of Home Builders on May 21, 1989. With the efforts of a few visionary builders who wanted to provide a united voice through advocacy for home building and related construction entities the BIA was formed. The Association which received its state and federal non-profit status in June of 1989 is governed by elected officers and a Board of Directors while the day to day operations and administration are coordinated by a professional staff. BIA's membership of builders, developers, subcontractors, and associated businesses is dedicated to protecting and promoting the home building industry and to keeping home ownership possible and affordable in Tulare and Kings Counties. Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate the Building Industry Association for its outstanding leadership and service to its members, communities, and home buyers in the Tulare and Kings Counties for 10 years. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing the BIA many more years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to His Holiness Catholicos Karekin I who passed away Tuesday, June 29, 1999 after a long battle with cancer. He died in his residence in the town of Echmiadzin. Born Nshan Sarkisian, in Syria on August 27, 1932, Karekin was admitted to the Theological Seminary of the Armenian Catholicate of Cilicia in 1946. He was ordained a deacon in 1949, and graduated with high honors in 1952. In the same year, he was ordained a celibate priest, receiving the name ``Karekin,'' and entered the religious order of the Catholicate of Cilicia. He was granted the ecclesiastical degree of ``vardapet'' in 1955 and joined the Theological Seminary in Antelias, Lebanon, first as a faculty member and later as dean. He took a brief hiatus from his duties as dean in 1957 to study theology at Oxford University in Great Britain, and returned to his position upon the completion of his thesis in 1960. In the following decade, Fr. Karekin served as a key aide to His Holiness Khoren I, Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia, while attending several historic religious conferences and lecturing on theology and other subjects at several schools and universities across the globe. In recognition of his service to the Church, he was elevated to the position of senior archmandrite in 1963, consecrated as bishop in 1964, and made Archbishop in 1973. During this time Bishop Karekin served the Church in many capacities in the Middle East and North America. Archbishop Karekin was elected Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia in 1977, serving in the capacity of ``Catholicos Coadjutor,'' along side His Holiness Khoren I until the latter's death in 1983. Subsequently, His Holiness Karekin II was fully installed as Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia. In this capacity, Karekin II worked to improve and expand religious education in the Catholicate, as well as to expand its capacity to support research and publishing projects. In later years he acted as an Ambassador of the Church, making numerous visits to religious leaders all over the world. He also contributed to the leadership of the Middle East Council of Churches, and published extensively on a range of subjects. In his travels, Karekin II made frequent visits to Armenia, both before and after the fall of the USSR. He visited Holy Etchmiadzin to express solidarity with His Holiness Vazgen I, the late Catholicos of All Armenians, during a trip to render spiritual assistance to the victims of the 1988 Spitak earthquake. He was also named to serve on the Central Board of Directors of the Armenia Fund, Inc. Karekin II was elected the Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians on April 4, 1995. Mr. Speaker, I rise to extend my sincerest condolences to His Holiness and the Armenian Church. In the spring of 1996 I had the honor of meeting His Holiness when I traveled to Armenia. I am deeply saddened by his passing; June 29, 1999 will be remembered as a day of mourning for all Armenians.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the recipients of the fourth annual Excellence in Business Award for their high ethical standards, corporate success and growth, employee and customer service, and concern for the environment. Award winners include many types of businesses from the Valley: agriculture; charities; finance; banking and insurance; health care; manufacturing; professional services; real estate and construction; nonprofit organizations; small businesses; retail and wholesale. The 1999 Excellence in Business Award winners are: Joseph Gallo Farms-Agriculture, Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Fresno, Kings and Madera Counties Inc.-Charitable, Valley Small Business Development Corp.- Financial/Banking/Insurance, The Fresno Surgery Center-Healthcare, National Diversified Sales-Manufacturing, San Joaquin River Parkway and Conservation Trust-Nonprofit, Anthony C. Pings and Associates- Professional Services, Colliers Tingey Internatinal-Real Estate/ Construction, Me-n-Ed's Pizzerias-Retail/Wholesale, McCombs and Associates-Small Business, and Samuel T. Reeves-Hall of Fame. Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate each of the 1999 Excellence in Business Award winners for their leadership and contributions to the community. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing all of the recipients many more years of continued success.