George Radanovich

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Chairman, as vice chairman of the Western Caucus, I rise to express my strong support for H.R. 858 and my opposition to the substitute offered by my colleague, the gentleman from California [Mr. Miller]. In November of 1992, representatives from local environmental organizations, local foresters, local elected officials, and interested citizens began meeting at the library in Quincy, CA. The result of this effort is the legislation we have before us today, H.R. 858, a proposal that is good for forests, good for people, and good for the environment. Using the best and most current science available, the Quincy Library Group has brought before us a 5-year forest management pilot program that strengthens the health of the forest in the Quincy region by reducing the catastrophic wildfires, restoring streams and watersheds, prohibiting timber harvesting in all designated roadless areas, and saving endangered species. H.R. 858 represents a bold new approach to solving today's environmental problems, an approach that is long overdue. The legislation put forward by the gentleman from California [Mr. Herger] marks the new beginning of an era of environmentalism in America, one that emphasizes local wisdom, local cooperation, and incentives not in conflict and controversy. For too long we have placed our trust into the hands of nameless, faceless Washington bureaucrats to decide what is best for our environment and our well-being in local communities like Quincy. In order to better protect the environment, we must move beyond the outdated approaches of the past. We must replace the old Federal command and control approach to environmental protection with one that rewards local stewardship and private property incentives. H.R. 858 achieves these important objectives. Mr. Chairman, do not let the eco-thugs destroy the environment of northern California. Vote no on the Miller amendment and yes on H.R. 858, the Quincy Library bill.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Rt. Rev. Moushegh Mardirossian for his elevation to the rank of bishop in the Armenian Apostolic Church. Right Reverend Mardirossian's inspiration and leadership is held with the greatest respect. On June 22, 1997, Right Reverend Mardirossian was elevated to the rank of bishop after a Pontifical High Mass in Antelias, Lebanon, at the St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral. This Episcopal ordination by the Catholicos came as a result of an official request presented by the Prelacy's National Representative Assembly, and the joint session of the Religious and Central Executive Councils of the Western Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Right Reverend Mardirossian was born in Beirut, Lebanon. He completed his elementary education in Noubarian Armenian School in October 1969. He immediately entered the Armenian Seminary of the Great House of Cilicia, in Antelias. As a graduate of the Antelias Seminary, Right Reverend Mardirossian was ordained into celibate priesthood in June 1976. Since that time, he has served in various capacities in both Lebanon and California. Right Reverend Mardirossian has functioned as vicar general and on November 17, 1995, the Joint Session of the Religious and Executive Councils of the Western Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America unanimously elected him Locum Tenens of the Prelacy. He has been a member of the national representative assembly and member and chairperson of the religious council. Prior to his election as a prelate in May 1996, Right Reverend Mardirossian was the pastor of the Forty Martyrs Armenian Apostolic Church in Orange County, CA. Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor that I congratulate Rt. Rev. Moushegh Mardirossian for his elevation to the rank of bishop. His character and wisdom are symbolic of his outstanding service as a religious leader and human being. I ask my colleagues to join me in wishing Rt. Rev. Moushegh Mardirossian continued happiness and inspirational religious leadership.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, with regard to the vote on final passage for H.R. 1119, the Defense Authorization Act, I was unavoidably detained. I support of H.R. 1119. This bill safeguards that our military will continue to defend the Nation's vital interests. H.R. 1119 ensures that the American military will be ready for the 21st century battlefield. In particular, it adds $2.6 billion to the President's deficient budget request, making for a total of approximately $268.2 billion. The bill is robust in terms of offering a balanced research and development program that will include advanced technologies and improved capabilities. Mr. Speaker, I support my colleagues who voted in favor of H.R. 1119.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Clovis Unified School District's Fancher Creek Elementary for being named a 1997 California Distinguished School. The faculty and students of Fancher Creek Elementary exemplify excellence with exceptional student achievement and staff development. The mission of Fancher Creek Elementary School is to educate all students in a challenging, disciplined, and supportive environment, enabling them to reach their potential of becoming productive citizens who will make positive life-long contributions to society. A positive school climate is the essential factor of Fancher Creek's environment. The school's motto, Falcons Have Pride, sets such a tone for the students. Monthly award programs recognize students who achieve goals in academics, athletics, and cocurricular activities. Expectations are clear and consistent, and the standards for student achievement and conduct are high. Fancher Creek has over 900 students of which 61 percent receive free or reduced lunch and 33 percent are English Language learners. The student body is composed of 23.8 percent Asian (Hmong), 32 percent Hispanic, 34.9 percent white, 8.2 percent African-American, and 0.7 percent American Indian. Despite facing cultural diversity, language differences, a high transiency rate (46.4 percent), and other economic problems, Fancher Creek Elementary has maintained tough standards, as measured by the Clovis Unified School District accountability model, which is the Clovis assessment system for sustained improvement [CLASSI]. Fancher Creek Elementary received the Clovis Unified School District Exemplary School Award, the district's highest honor. This award is given for overall excellence in student achievement, school management, community involvement, and cocurricular priorities. Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor that I pay tribute to Clovis Unified School District's Fancher Creek Elementary. The students and faculty of this school share both a care for the community and a dedication to hard work. I ask my colleagues to join me in wishing Fancher Creek Elementary many more years of successful teaching.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the students of Martin Luther King, Jr. Middle School in Madera, CA for their awareness and concern for the importance of soil for America's farmers. These students exemplify a care for the community and a dedication to hard work. The students of Martin Luther King, Jr. Middle School promoted awareness of soil in 1993 through student research and letters to soil scientists in all 50 States. The students received a tremendous response from all over the country about many diverse soils, including information and samples. The students began to initiate conversations with--and enlisted the help of--a number of soil scientists as they looked at the possibilities of writing a solution to the problem of soil awareness. The title of the interdisciplinary project that was created is ``Proposing an Official State Soil--Preserving a Legacy to Future Generations.'' The program focuses on California soil and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Middle School student body, which studied the processes of promoting legislation, the historical events that have taken place on and the practical uses of California soil. Students researched the history and origin of soil, worked on statistics utilizing various soil characteristics, and wrote a resolution known as Senate Bill Number 389, which proposed an adoption of the San Joaquin Series Soil as the Official State Soil. On April 17, 1997, the Senate passed SB-389. The support and guidance of Ron Williams, principal of Martin Luther King, Jr. Middle School, and Alex Lehman, were instrumental in the success of the program. Additional support was provided by additional faculty at Martin Luther King, Jr. Middle School, including: Nadia Samarin; Mike Dawson; Teresa Varlas; and Bill Lutjens. Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor that I pay tribute to the students of Martin Luther King, Jr. Middle School. Their commitment to raising soil awareness is commendable to say the least. I ask my colleagues to join me in wishing the students of Martin Luther King, Jr. Middle School best wishes for future success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the Fresno City College Vocational Training Center. The guidance and teachings supplied by this organization improves the economic health of the community, providing high quality education to students and top quality technical workers for employers. The Vocational Training Center of Fresno City College has been serving residents of Fresno, CA and the surrounding area for more than 20 years. During that time, hundreds of local people have learned new technical skills to improve their careers and become gainfully employed in the business community. The Vocational Training Center stresses practical skills that are directly employable in local industry. It is the belief of the center that a ``hands-on'' approach to training best prepares students for their respective careers. In addition, the ``on-the-job'' atmosphere teaches students the proper care and maintenance of tolls, facilities, and work-place discipline. Businesses recognize the quality of training graduates receive, and students are learning the skills the industry needs. This has been one of the most important components of the Vocational Training Center's success and is demonstrated by its remarkable placement record, as approximately 80 percent of its graduates move directly into jobs upon graduation. The Vocational Training Center owes its success to the cooperation between the staff of Fresno City College Vocational Training Center and local business leaders who have worked to make the Center's program reflect the requirements of local industry, while meeting the educational needs of its students. This relationship will ensure the success of future Vocational Training Center graduates. Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor that I pay tribute to the Fresno City College Vocational Training Center. The education provided by this center contributes to the betterment of the community while providing individuals with resources needed in the industry today. I ask my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to an organization that satisfies the employment and educational needs of the community.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Mickey and Wilma Hirni on the occasion of their 40th wedding anniversary. the event will be celebrated on June 19, 1997. Attending Exeter High School in Exeter, CA, these high school sweethearts, discovered their love was strong enough to last a lifetime, prompting their marriage on June 19, 1957. The Hirnis continued to pursue their individual interest after getting married, never letting the importance of their relationship escape them. They have three children: Marlene, Karrie, and Mark; all of whom are married and have children themselves. Agriculture has always surrounded the life of Mickey Hirni. Following his graduation from Exeter High School he continued his education and agricultural interest at California State Polytechnical University. He has now become a prominent figure in the community with the success of his business, Sierra Western Agricultural Services, Inc. and his membership on the school board. As president of the Exeter Lyons Club, Mickey Hirni is respected for his adherence to moral values and hard work. Among all of his achievements and responsibilities, he reflects on his family as the most important aspect of his marriage, both past and present. Credit for the success of this 40-year anniversary also belongs to Wilma Hirni. Having graduated from Exeter High School in 1956, Mrs. Hirni pursued her interest in nursing at Fresno City College and is currently an operation room registered nurse at the Visalia Center for Ambulatory Medicine and Surgery. Her dedication and hard work in the area of nursing has made it possible for her to become operating room director. Her feelings about her marriage mirror that of Mr. Hirni, and during the course of all her responsibilities she has upheld her devotion to the marriage. Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor that I pay tribute to the 40th wedding anniversary of Mickey and Wilma Hirni. Their commitment to each other serves as a model for all men and women and should be held in the highest respect. I ask my colleagues to join me in wishing Mickey and Wilma Hirni my best wishes for future success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Chairman, thank you for the opportunity to stand beside Mr. Pallone in offering this important amendment to H.R. 1757, the Foreign Affairs Authorization Act. As with everything we do in this House, expenditures for foreign aid must be evaluated to ensure fiscal discipline. H.R. 1757 makes great strides toward reducing wasteful spending, and proposes to make a vital shift in how the United States meets its foreign policy challenges. One of the significant shifts will be to improve the operations of the State Department by consolidating into its structure two Federal agencies--the U.S. Information Agency and the Arms Control Disarmament Agency. As we proceed with these long overdue changes in the U.S. foreign affairs establishment, we must not lose sight of our Nation's ability to affect change abroad. The United States must remain engaged and sensitive to our strategic interests in ambitious but fragile democracies like Armenia. Armenia finds itself at a crossroads. The young republic is in a delicate rebuilding process and struggles to reconstruct itself after having its growth impeded by harmful policies of the former Soviet Union. Armenia is striving to establish the type of government and free-market economy which will enable it to more easily integrate itself into the region. Regional integration in the Caucasus is of vital importance of U.S. foreign policy. Integration will yield additional economic stability for the region and help it to become a more attractive sector for U.S. investment. We must take action which facilitates the process. Therefore, Mr. Chairman, I am, with Congressman Pallone, offering this reasonable amendment which encourages the President to seek cooperation from the governments of Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Turkey, as well as private companies with an interest in developing Azerbaijan's Caspian Sea petroleum reserves. This amendment serves to encourage the construction of a pipeline route from Azerbaijan through Armenia. This pipeline would likely extend to Turkey and Mediterranean sea ports. No doubt, such an effort will improve relations between the neighboring countries by spreading the seeds of cooperation. The venture will serve the overall objectives the United States has for peace and prosperity in this region. I encourage my colleagues to support this amendment.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, to pay tribute to the planners and participants from Sequoia and Rankin Fields. These two airfields will be celebrating their first reunion on Saturday, May 31, 1997. Over 50 years ago, Tulare County opened its doors to train USAAF pilots. This reunion event is designed to honor those pilots who did not make it home from World War II, and to pay tribute to two distinguished soldiers, Maj. Richard Bong and Maj. Daniel Lindsay. Both gentlemen received their flight training at Rankin Field more than 50 years ago. Later, the two went on to fight for victory during World War II. They each received the Congressional Medal of Honor for their distinguish military service. Rankin Field was founded by flight instructor ``Tex'' Rankin, a native of the State of Texas. Rankin opened his field during World War II. At the time, the Government contracted out private airfields, making them responsible for training soldiers entering military service during World War II. More than 40 years after Rankin's death, the contributions that he made to the growth of the Tulare and Visalia communities are still felt today. The celebration at Rankin Field is a culmination of work done by former cadets and instructors, Sequoia Field, the Tulare County Historical Society, and the Costa Mesa Historical Society. Former cadets from all over the State of California joined forces with the Tulare County Deputy Sheriff's Association, an organization that recently purchased a portion of the original Rankin Field site. The association commenced work on the headquarters and recreation facility that would be named ``Rankin Field, home of Tulare County Deputy Sheriffs Association.'' The association plans to create an exhibit devoted to the World War II USAAF pilot training program at Rankin Field. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to have constituents in my district who have taken the initiative to restore Rankin Field in its full glory. I ask my colleagues to join me in wishing those organizers of the reunion best wishes for a successful and enjoyable celebration.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to ArcWork of Fresno. In partnership with the Fresno Chamber of Commerce, ArcWork employs people with developmental disabilities at jobs which enhance the business environment and the community. The ArcWork project was the vision of Larry Willey, vice president of marketing for the Fresno Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Willey was aware that one of the priorities of Fresno Mayor Jim Patterson was to keep Fresno Clean and Green. In response, it was proposed that individual businesses and the Fresno Chamber of Commerce could sponsor various areas and pay ArcWork employees to keep them clean. Since then, the concept of community and corporate involvement to take care of the cities beautification has expanded greatly. Parks were recently added to the list for the beautification process, and various city agencies and groups have become involved in the program. The collaboration of resources has been so effective, the city of Fresno has been able to redirect its workers to more demanding projects. The result: ArcWork crews are now capable of picking up an increasing number of general city tasks. The advent of the ArcWork program has been a win-win for everyone involved. Businesses have found the services to be cost effective, helping to create a cleaner environment throughout Fresno. ArcWork also has allowed business to gain recognition for the positive contributions made to the program. Municipalities have benefited by the increased partnerships that have been forged between the Fresno Chamber of Commerce and the business community, helping to create employment opportunities for the developmentally disabled. Most importantly, though, are the benefits that the ArcWork program has given to those with developmental disabilities who want to work and increase their self-sufficiency. Mr. Speaker, I admire the success of the ArcWork program. Working together, the city of Fresno, the Fresno Chamber of Commerce, private organizations, and local businesses have found a beneficial way to solve some of the challenges facing our city in a positive and effective manner. I ask my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to ArcWork, a program that serves as a model of local grassroots involvement throughout the Nation.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Chairman, today is a historic moment for America. We have the opportunity to vote on a budget that will be in balance by the year 2002 to begin the process of returning the Federal Government to a policy of fiscal responsibility. Last week the Committee on the Budget had a chance to look at this budget agreement, and I am proud to say that we reported it out of committee by a wide bipartisan margin, 31 to 7. This budget stands for commonsense values. It means permanent tax relief for hard-working families, genuine entitlement reform that preserves Medicare, and smaller, less intrusive Washington bureaucracy that lives within its means. This is something American families have been doing all along. It is about time we reward them for it with a balanced budget of our own. With this budget American families will receive a much needed break from excessive taxes that have reached an unprecedented level of unfairness. This means that middle-class Americans like David Witt of Fresno, CA, and Kelley Gentry of Three Rivers, CA, both in the great Central Valley, will get capital gains tax cuts. Others will receive relief from the death tax, which destroys the hope of passing on the fruits of one's labor to their children, and they will also receive tax relief if they send their child to college. These tax reductions will allow workers to keep more of what they earn and gives them the freedom to live their lives as they choose, not as Washington dictates. Mr. Chairman, we have the chance today to reduce taxes by $135 billion over 5 years, save Medicare for the next 10 years and provide 600 to 700 dollars' worth of entitlement savings over a 10-year period. I urge my colleagues to support final passage of House Concurrent Resolution 84, a Balanced Budget Act that is good for America.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the Dinuba Rotary Club of Dinuba, CA. The Dinuba Rotary Club observed its 75th anniversary on May 16, 1997, at a hosted gala reception. The Dinuba Rotary has been involved in Rotary International for three-quarters of a century. Operating under the slogan, ``Service Above Self,'' the organization has been working with communities throughout northern Tulare County on a wide variety of community service projects and programs. Rotarians in Dinuba have been instrumental in a wide array of community service projects. At a city and county level, they have been responsible for securing a new branch of the Tulare County Library for Dinuba. They have also equipped and supplied the Dinuba Police Department with a radio-controlled car as an educational tool to help the children in the community say ``no'' to drugs. Finally, the group has erected a plaque honoring the sons and daughters of northern Tulare County who made the supreme sacrifice of serving our country at times of war in this century. Since its inception 75 years ago, the Dinuba Rotary has made its biggest impact in the field of education. Dinuba Rotary has provided scholarships for deserving graduates of local high schools. Recognizing that agriculture is the foundation of Tulare County's economy, Dinuba Rotary has also provided scholarships for its members of the Future Farmers of America to pursue their education at both the high school and college level. Dinuba Rotary has been instrumental in bringing exchange students from foreign countries to Dinuba High School and has helped send Dinuba High School students to study abroad. The Dinuba Rotary has sent senior students from Dinuba High School to Camp Royal, a leadership camp sponsored by Rotary Clubs in central California. The organization also annually sponsors a spelling bee for students in elementary schools in northern Tulare County to promote literacy among its students. Mr. Speaker, the Dinuba Rotary is an excellent example of individuals working together to create a stronger and more supportive community. I commend the Dinuba Rotary for their community activism and the contributions that they have made over the last 75 years. I ask my colleagues to rise and join me in congratulating them as they celebrate this milestone in the Dinuba community.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Lois and Dow Willey. Mr. and Mrs. Willey will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Saturday, May 24, 1997. Friends and family from all over the California area will be on hand for the anniversary celebration. Notably, their sons Brent and Larry will be in attendance as well as eight grandchildren and three great- grandchildren. Lifelong residents of California, Lois and Dow met over 50 years ago in Lemoore, CA. After marrying, the couple moved to the central coast where Dow was a deputy sheriff in Morro Bay. Life in the small coastal town was very family oriented. Lois was devoted to her family and worked inside the home, while Dow often worked more than one job at a time, demonstrating to his family the importance of a strong work ethic and paying your own way through life. As the children grew up and moved away, Dow and Lois decided to move back to the Central Valley. Now living in Fresno, the two remain actively involved in the community. Lois maintains strong relationships with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and is a member of the 19th District Senior Advisory Council. Dow works for his son Larry at Willey Tile in Fresno. The two still remain active in their local church, which they claim to be the foundation of their strength and success in life. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have Mr. and Mrs. Willey as constituents and friends in the 19th Congressional District. I congratulate them on 50 wonderful years of marriage, and ask my colleagues to join me in wishing them every success for the years to come.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, today, I am introducing the Occupational Tax Equity Act of 1997, a bill which will abolish the special occupational tax--an antiquated nuisance tax on producers, wholesalers, and retailers of beer, wine, and spirits. In particular, thousands of small mom and pop businesses are saddled with paying an additional $250 per year which is regressive and--in fact--a piggyback tax on top of countless Federal, State, and local taxes. We are spending more to collect less and, as we in Congress look to streamline the Nation's revenue collection system, we should be particularly horrified by the cost of enforcing special occupational tax payment compliance--a compliance that borders nearly 50 percent. This bill also includes provisions to revise the current drawback regulation for non-beverage alcohol producers and replace it with a more efficient means of collection. Here again, Mr. Speaker, the system of assessing and collecting these drawback taxes add complicated and costly steps to doing business in America. I urge all of my colleagues to join me in cosponsoring this bill, H.R. 1620, the Occupational Tax Equity Act of 1997.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, congressional colleagues and friends in the U.S. wine industry, I rise today to commend the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association for hosting the first-ever Wine Festival and Sunset Tour of the historic Mount Vernon Mansion, home of our first President, George Washington, May 16, 17, and 18, 1997. As the first vintner to have the honor of serving in our Nation's Congress since Thomas Jefferson and as the Toastmaster for the opening night of this 3-day event, I wish to announce that my office has been notified that, among the distinguished public planning to attend this event, both Gen. George Washington and Thomas Jefferson will be present. Twelve of Virginia's award-winning wineries will be pouring samples of their finest wines. The special tour of the Mansion will offer a new special view of the Washington family's hospitality frequently enjoyed by friends, colleagues, and foreign leaders of the period, including a first-ever look at the Mansion's cellar where Washington stored his wines. The participating Old Dominion wineries in this event are Barboursville Vineyards & Historic Ruins, Chateau Morrisette, Gray Ghost Vineyards, Horton Cellars Winery, Ingleside Plantation Vineyards, Jefferson Vineyards, Lake Anna Winery, Oasis Winery, Prince Michel Vineyards, Tarara Vineyard & Winery, Williamsburg Winery Ltd., and Wintergreen Vineyards & Winery. When George Washington was not meeting the call of the Nation in leading our Continental Army toward independence and the incomparable responsibilities of establishing our fledgling democratic institutions, he remained at heart an agriculturalist, interested in all sectors of farm economy. Based on his own observations during his travels along the eastern seaboard of America ``the spontaneous growth of the vine . . . bent under the weight of the ripe grapes,'' Washington was inspired to make repeated attempts at planting both native American vines and cuttings brought from Europe. But, not unlike what Thomas Jefferson faced--the humidity of the region, lack of knowledge of vineyard management and the technology of dealing with pests and plant diseases, these attempts failed. Our Nation had to wait some 200 years before the knowledge of modern viticulture and enology practices would allow the American wine industry to develop into one that is presently recognized internationally, with a strong competitive presence in the world market. I wish to commend the work of Mount Vernon staffers, management, and the event's wine consultant, Gordon W. Murchie, a friend and industry spokesman, for presenting to the American public the proper image of the U.S. wine industry as being a part of our Nation's history, culture, and commerce. Public education that promotes ``responsible moderate consumption of wine as part of a healthy adult diet and life style'' is the message the U.S. wine industry and I wish to convey. I am sure the Mount Vernon event will help further promulgate the message that wine is a beverage to be enjoyed in moderation with food, friends and in all manners of social occasions, but never abused. Facts and Figures National ranking 12th among farm wine and commercial grape growing states. 6th among vinifera wine growing states. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Percent 1979 1997 increase ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Growth: No. of wineries............................ 6 49 700 Acreage.................................... 286 1500 424 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1996 Production: 1,763 tons of wine grapes producing 282,080 gallons of wine. Viticultural Regions Virginia has six specifically designated grape growing (viticultural) regions: Monticello, Northern Neck George Washington Birthplace, Rocky Knob, Shenandoah Valley, Eastern Shore, and North Fork of the Roanoke. Major Varieties Vinifera varieties: Chardonnay, White Ricsling, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Gewurztraminer, Cabernet Franc, Sauvingnon Blanc, and Merlot. Major French hybrid varieties: Seyval, Vidal Blanc, Villiard Blanc, and Marechal Foch. Major American varieties: Concord, Delaware, and Niagara. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Percent Variety Acreage total Percent per ton acreage ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Vinifera........................ 1140 76 $1,100 to $1,200. French hybrid................... 285 19 $500 to $600. American........................ 75 5 $400 to $500. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Number of Vineyards in 1997--140. 1996 SALES Cases and retail sales: 191,849; $23,021,880--9.5% increase over 1995. Distribution of Virginia wines In Virginia: Virginia wine is sold in retail outlets, restaurants, through festivals and special events, and direct at individual wineries. Other: Distributed primarily in the eastern United States. Virginia wines are also found in major cities abroad as well as American cities such as Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. Tourism: Through winery tours and tastings, the Virginia wine industry attracts over 500,000 visitors annually. Reasons for Virginia Wine Industry Growth: Favorable climate for growing grapes; Institutional support, especially from Division of Tourism and the Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services; Research and technology support from VPI& SU; Strong wine marketing program; An increasing regional and national awareness of quality of Virginia wines; and Dedication of Virginia wine industry to improving the quality and viability of its products.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the recipients of the 1997 Excellence in Business Awards. Sponsored by a distinguished newspaper in the Central Valley of California, the Fresno Bee, the awards are designed to honor businesses and one individual from the community who have demonstrated high ethical standards, corporate success and growth, employee and customer service, and concern for the environment. The recipients will be honored at a luncheon given in their honor on Thursday, May 8, 1997, in Fresno, CA. Dozens of nominations were submitted and the following were selected to represent the breadth of businesses throughout the Valley: International Agri-Center (Tulare) Agriculture Although the center is staffed by just 10 employees, a volunteer staff of more than 600 people make up the strength of this business. Through the assistance of all, the International Agri-Center produces the annual California Farm Equipment Show, the greatest international event of its kind. Fresno Rescue Mission/Craycroft Youth Center (Fresno) Charitable The only organization of its kind, the Fresno Rescue Mission/Craycroft Youth Center represents the sole Fresno County receiving home for abused and neglected children. Services offered through the center include counseling, education services, and health exams. The most unique feature of the center is that it allows for siblings to remain together at one location, thereby keeping families intact. Buckman-Mitchell Insurance (Visalia) Finance Working on its 81st year in business, Buckman-Mitchell Insurance has more than 60 employees and clients throughout the world. The company is known well throughout the Central Valley for its high ethical standards and community involvement. Such an example of the level of dedication that exists within the company is evidenced by the fact that the company donates as much as $100,000 a year to the Visalia community. St. Agnes Medical Center (Fresno) Health Care St. Agnes, the fourth largest employer in Fresno County, opened its doors in 1929. Since then, the staff at St. Agnes has made continuous strides in the health care field. Between 1993 and 1996, outpatient volumes at the medical center increased by more than 76,400. The medical center is also helping to find positions outside of the hospital, as they assist in funding a case worker for Fresno Unified School District's teen parenting program, Future Positive. Grundfos Pumps Corporation (Clovis) Manufacturing An example of a home-based operation, Grundfos Pumps, was first established in the cellar of Paul Due Jensen's home in Denmark in 1945. Since then the company has expanded and opened its operation for U.S. manufacturing in Clovis in 1974. The company's continuous commitment to excellence and education has continued to grow over the years. Since 1987, Grundfos has been a business partner with Clovis Unified School Districts and continues to place great importance on employee training and training. Fresno Zoological Society (Fresno) Non-Profit The Chafee Zoological Gardens at Roeding Park was incorporated in 1949. Visited by more than 400,000 people the society grossed more than 1.78 million in 1995 from combined fundraising activities. The Society remains a source of attraction to the Fresno area due to an outstanding membership organization. Growing from 2,500 in 1988 to 6,400 in 1997, the society recently recognized Director David W. Kyle as Outstanding Fund-raising Executive of the Year by the National Society of Fundraising Executives. Baker, Manock & Jensen Attorneys At Law (Fresno) Professional Services As one of the oldest and most-established law firms in the Valley, Baker, Manock & Jensen employs 47 lawyers, 10 paralegals, and more than 50 other staff members in support positions. The firm is recognized as a member of commercial law affiliates, an association of A-rated firms throughout the world. In addition to a heavy and extremely active work load, members of the firm devote numerous personal hours to assist with more than 20 nonprofit organizations throughout the community. La Tapatia Tortilleria, Inc. (Fresno) Retail/Wholesale La Tapatia is a homegrown business built from the ground up. Helen Chavez-Hansen first purchased the business in 1969 for $1,900. Since then, La Tapatia has grown from 6 employees and one tortilla oven to a staff of over 155. La Tapatia's 40,000-square-foot plant can produce 5,500 dozen tortillas per hour. The intense quality control program of the plant assures that an individual is receiving the best commercial product available. Fortier Transportation (Fresno) Small Business In 1911, Fortier Stage Lines was founded and provided passenger service to its customers. In 1991, the business went back to its original function as a regulated interstate motor freight carrier. Kathy Fortier, the owner of Fortier Transportation, began with one part-time driver in 1992. Today, the business employs office staff, shop personnel, and five company drivers. Hall of Fame Award

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Chairman, I rise to support of H.R. 478, the Flood Prevention and Family Protection Act of 1997. Flood control is a necessity, not a luxury, and unfortunately opponents of the measure see the world much differently. A recent letter from the environmental lobby, which is opposed to this legislation, stated: H.R. 478 would give dam-managing agencies * * * carte blanche to destroy aquatic wildlife in the name of flood control. Does anybody really believe this is what these local decisionmakers have in mind? This kind of extreme rhetoric is a symptom of the controversy surrounding the current environmental debate. If we are ever going to address today's environmental problems, we can no longer rely on yesterday's solutions. The proponents of the status quo, I believe, are less concerned about protecting endangered species than they are in giving up Federal control of environmental decisionmaking to local authorities. How many species survived the recent levy washout in California? How much habitat was destroyed? How many people died? The proponents of H.R. 478 are not opposed to species protection; they are simply opposed to policies that undermine our ability to protect people from the dangers of floods. This bill makes a commonsense change in the Endangered Species Act to help prevent flooding before it occurs, not just in dealing with it after. I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 478.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Alice Peters. Mrs. Peters has demonstrated, time and time again, the ability to raise the spirits of people in the Fresno, CA, community. I want to honor her today for her service to Fresno. As noted in a recent edition of the Armenian General Benevolent Union [AGBU] magazine, Alice Peters' family moved to Lynn, MA, from Bitlis in 1907. After hearing that more Bitlistsies were residing in the Fresno area, the family moved to Del Rey, a small farming town outside of Fresno. In 1943, she met and married Leon Peters, who was a farmer by day and sold pumps for water at night. Their business grew and became one of the Nation's premier winemaking machinery plants. Eventually, the business grew to be as large as 300 employees before the couple sold it to begin pursuing other interests. Perhaps even more significant to the region than the wine-making machinery business was the formation of the Leon S. Peters Foundation in 1959. Today, this foundation, with Mrs. Peters as the board chairman, supports many different educational causes in both the Fresno community and the world. Locally, the foundation aids humanitarian endeavors and university scholarships. Foundation guidelines require the money be kept in Fresno to help students locally. Internationally, the foundation sends funding to various organizations throughout Armenia, including supporting scholarships for students studying at the American University of Armenia and funding to assist children at the Nork Children's Center. Promoting education is not where the work of Alice Peters ends. As one of the leading philanthropists in Fresno, Mrs. Peters was instrumental in starting the Fresno Metropolitan Museum of Art, and also is a principle fund-raiser for the Fresno Zoo and the Boy and Girl Scouts of America. Together, Mr. and Mrs. Peters have shaped Fresno from a once small farming town into one of the largest and most thriving cities in California. Mr. Speaker, as an active member of the Fresno community, Alice Peters has contributed to the growth and cultivation of new ideas and accomplishments of its residents. Together, she and her husband have faced the challenges and enjoyed the successes of the world of business. In turn, they have given back to the community that has become so important in their lives. I ask my colleagues to join me in tribute to a woman who strives each day to make the Fresno community as fulfilling a place for others as it has been for her.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Clovis Unified School District [CUSD]. In a joint powers agreement, CUSD and Fresno Unified School District [FUSD] will open a Center for Advanced Research and Technology [CART] in Clovis, CA. An extended branch of the educational system in Clovis, CART will allow students in the community to adequately prepare for the technological challenges of the future. Scheduled to open in the fall of 1999, CART pilot programs have been slated to begin in the fall of 1997. CART was made possible by a combination of grants and a partnership between local businesses and the educational departments of the community. As a center striving to meet the employment needs of the community by adequately preparing students to take advantage of post-secondary options, the course work presented at the center will be responsive to the changes in American industry. CART will offer courses that require sophisticated laboratory environments and interdisciplinary curriculum that integrates higher order mathematics, sciences, and technology education. This course work will focus on the intellectual processes of problem solving, analyzing, team building resource allocation, and self-assessment through a cognitive apprenticeship instructional model. The skills taught at CART will be invaluable in both interpersonal and technological growth throughout the students lives. Striving to educate all segments of the community, high school students and adults will reap the benefits of CART. High school students will spend half of their day at the center receiving laboratory instruction. The State Center Community College District will offer postsecondary classes for students. Additionally, the Central California Business Incubator Program will also be located at the center. Mr. Speaker, it is a pleasure to welcome this program to my congressional district. I look forward to monitoring the progress that CART makes as it works closely with members of the local community. I ask my colleagues to join me both in supporting the Center for Advanced Research and Technology, and extending best wishes for its future success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Gasper Magarian. Mr. Magarian, a Fresno, CA attorney, has the distinction of being the oldest practicing attorney in the State of California. As noted in a recent article from the Armenian General Benevolent Union magazine [AGBU], Magarian's family--like many other Armenian families in Fresno--arrived in America 100 years ago. His family immigrated to Massachusetts to escape the atrocities suffered under Ottoman Turkish persecution. Magarian was born in Billercia, MA, and moved to Fresno in 1904 with his parents. His brothers and sisters were all born after the family moved to Fresno. His brothers and sisters range in age from 85-94 years old. Magarian, the oldest brother at age 97, is the only sibling still practicing in his current profession. He has voluntarily cut back on the amount of hours that he practices at the law firm of Heyman, Krikorian and Magarian, located in downtown Fresno. The Magarian name on the firm is that of his grandson Mark, but his 62-year-old son Donald--and Magarian himself--later joined in on the firm's ventures. Grandson Mark Magarian calls his grandfather, Gasper, ``one of our most valuable assets.'' Others in the firm speak to the advantage to having someone around with 70 years of legal experience. Magarian remarks that life for lawyers has changed since his earlier days. Magarian graduated from a local Fresno high school and attended Stanford University in 1919. At the time, there was no tuition at Stanford and incidental fees totaled about $60. Magarian finished law school and was admitted to the California State Bar in 1926. He began to work for a San Francisco law firm, but eventually moved back to Fresno in 1934. In the first 50 years of his practice, Magarian handled issues ranging from bankruptcy, divorce, land transfers, and criminal cases. Magarian also handled a varied workload of paid cases, while maintaining a pro bono caseload for the middle class and the poor. Throughout his career he has also maintained a close relationship with the Armenian community. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have Mr. Magarian practicing law in the 19th congressional district. His love for the legal profession and his perspective on life is both refreshing and inspirational. I congratulate him on his lifetime of accomplishments and ask my colleagues to join me in wishing him every success on his future endeavors.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to three outstanding individuals from the 144th Fighter Wing Division in Fresno, CA. These three men exemplify the bravery and consciousness that have earned them the Flight Line Safety Award of Distinction. On the morning of October 10, 1996, an air carrier was taxiing for takeoff past the ramp of the 144th Fighter Wing. Technical Sergeant Romero heard a loud explosion and noticed what was one of the dual main landing gear tires and what appeared to be a rim fall onto the taxiway. It appeared that the pilots on the aircraft were not aware of the situation and continued toward takeoff. Meanwhile, in maintenance control, S.S.T. Mulceroy also heard the loud explosion of the landing gear tires. He used the flightline radio to direct the expediter toward Sergeant Romero. When Master Sergeant Rauch--the expediter--arrived, Sergeant Romero informed him of the situation and the need to stop the aircraft. Sergeant Rauch immediately used his UHF radio to contact the FAA tower and requested them to stop the airliner--which was quickly making its way towards an active runway. Sergeant Rauch and Sergeant Romero took the expediter truck to the disabled aircraft to assure themselves that the tire had indeed blown. They promptly notified the tower of their findings, and the flight was directed back to the terminal for repair. Mr. Speaker, had the aircraft not been stopped, it would have taken off with major damage to its right landing gear. The swift action of these three fine men averted a potential major accident and saved the lives of more than 70 people. I commend, S.M. Sgt. Willis Mulceroy, M. Sgt. Eldon Rauch, and T. Sgt. Henry Romero, Jr. for their heroics, and ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating them for their actions. I extend to them my sincerest appreciation for a job well done.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Kenneth L. Khachigian. A legend in the political arena and a jewel in the Armenian community, Khachigian has joined the Junior Achievement of Armenia's [JAA] Honorary Board. As noted in the Saturday, March 22 edition of the Armenian Mirror- Spectator (see attached), JAA is an economics and business education program that offers Applied Economics classes and the student company experience in Armenia's high schools and institutions of higher learning. The purpose of the program is to introduce students to the free enterprise system, explain how it operates, and define its role in business and the global marketplace. Additionally, JAA familiarizes students with the hands-on basics of running a business, and explains to them the importance of economics to their future. Khachigian, a native of the Central Valley, has had a distinguished career in American politics. A farmer by nature and an attorney by trade, Khachigian has worked for former Presidents Nixon, Reagan, and Bush. In both campaign and executive roles, Khachigian has been instrumental in formulating and implementing the ideals and goals of the Republican Party. In addition to his advisory roles with Presidents Reagan and Bush, Khachigian played an active role in the successful campaigns of California Governors George Deukmejian and Pete Wilson. Most recently, Khachigian served as National Senior Advisor for the Dole for President campaign. In this position, Khachigian coordinated Senate Majority Leader Dole's Presidential bid in the State of California. Khachigian has also been active outside the political arena. He has served as a member of the board to the Armenian Assembly of America. He also sat as a Presidential appointee on the National Institute of Justice Advisory Board. From 1986-1992, Khachigian served on the Board of Overseers at the Hoover Institution on War, Revolution and Peace. He currently resides on the Board of California Council for Environmental and Economic Balance. Mr. Speaker, Ken Khachigian is a pioneer in the area of political advising and consulting. Khachigian's numerous accomplishments have been instrumental in advancing the agenda for a more responsible, independent, and productive America. I ask my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Ken Khachigian, a man of impeccable character. Ken should be admired not only for his multitude of success in America, but also for his tremendous contribution to--and support for--the Armenian community. Kenneth Khachigian Joins Jr. Achievement of Armenia's Board Los Angeles, CA--Presidential campaign advisor and political strategist Kenneth L. Khachigian has recently joined Junior Achievement of Armenia's (JAA) Honorary Board, which also includes former California Governor George Deukmejian and Dr. Mihran Agbabian, President Emeritus of the American University of Armenia. The purpose of this distinguished body is to provide JAA with advice, support and guidance. ``I am particularly pleased to become a member of the Honorary Board of Junior Achievement of Armenia. The remarkable and rapid growth of the group has made it among the most successful non-government programs in Armenia,'' commented Khachigian, ``I have great respect for grassroots organizations which promote education and demonstrate a vision for the future, and Junior Achievement of Armenia is just that organization,'' he said. Khachigian's career has been highlighted by numerous achievements. Most recently, he served as National Senior Advisor for the Dole for President campaign. In this post, his top priority was coordinating Senator Dole's presidential campaign in the State of California. As a political strategist and advisor, he has led to victory three U.S. Presidents, including Ronald Reagan and George Bush, and several California State leaders, including Governors Pete Wilson and George Deukmejian. During his career, Khachigian has also served as chief speech-writer to President Reagan, and was a Nixon White House aide. In addition to his professional activities, Khachigian has served as a Board member of the Armenian Assembly of America, and has sat as a Presidential appointee on the National Institute of Justice Advisory Board. During 1986-1992 he served on the Board of Overseers of the Hoover Institution of War, Revolution and Peace at Stanford University. Currently he sits on the Board of the California Council for Environmental and Economic Balance. Junior Achievement of Armenia is an economics and business education program offering Applied Economics classes and the student company experience in Armenia's high schools, and institutes of higher learning. The program teachers young people how the free enterprise system operates, the role of business in the global marketplace, the hands-on basics of running a business, and the importance of economics on their future. Junior Achievement of Armenia is a non-profit organization.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Victor ``Transport'' Maghakian. A legend of World War II, Maghakian was one of the most decorated and well-respected soldiers of the war. A native of Chicago, Maghakian moved to San Diego with his family in 1930. Nine years later, he moved to Fresno. He first served in the U.S. Marine Corps in the Philippines and throughout China. His familiarity with foreign bases throughout the Pacific earned him the nickname ``Transport.'' After Pearl Harbor was attacked on December 7, 1941, Maghakian re-enlisted in the Marine Corps and was selected to work with the so-called suicide unit of crack soldiers. These tough Marines were known as Carlson's Raiders. As a gunnery sergeant, Maghakian led his troops through what was believed to be some of the bloodiest fighting in seven South Pacific campaigns. During one mission, Maghakian even made himself a human target so that a sniper, who had wounded one of his buddies, would give up his hiding spot. The enemy was shot, but not before Maghakian was shot himself, wounded by the sniper's gun-fire. Maghakian's bravery allowed him to continue undaunted through numerous battles. In 1944, during the battle of Eniwetok, he eliminated the last four Japanese soldiers on Mellu Island and went on to rescue a platoon by destroying the enemy flank with grenades. In the battle, he saved the life of a young man who went on to be one of Hollywood's finest actors--Lee Marvin. He also became the first officer to raise the American flag on Tinian Island. After leaving active duty in 1946, Maghakian retired as a captain, with full honors. He received the Navy Cross, two Silver Stars, a Bronze Star, and two Purple Hearts. He returned to Fresno where he owned and managed the Mid-Valley Beer and Wine Wholesale Distributing Co. and the Victor Mobile Service. Maghakian later joined the State Department as a security officer in Morocco before settling in Las Vegas. He eventually moved back to Fresno where he died in 1977, and was buried at Ararat Cemetery. Mr. Speaker, Victor ``Transport'' Maghakian fought for this Nation's freedom with uncommon valor. I ask my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Victor Maghakian, an American hero.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the Fresno Chapter of the American Institute of Parliamentarians. The American Institute of Parliamentarians has requested that California Governor Pete Wilson declare the month of April, ``Parliamentary Emphasis Month.'' Parliamentary procedure provides an accurate, impartial and timely means of arriving at the opinion of those present. The mission statement of the American Institute of Parliamentarians is: to foster, promote, and teach the highest standards of parliamentary procedure in keeping with both the principles of parliamentary law and the adopted parliamentary authority, and in accordance with the accepted system of rules for conducting business in an organizational body. Among others, America was founded upon the principles of individuals rights, majority rule, and the promotion of a deliberative process for governing and decisionmaking procedures. Our third President, Thomas Jefferson, wrote the first manual on parliamentary practice in this country. Published in 1801, that manual has left an indelible mark on our history. The Rules of Order are an integral part of any properly functioning organization. Whether in the private sector, or at every level of government, the Rules of Order is a guide that continues to be utilized on a daily basis. Mr. Speaker, I commend the American Institute of Parliamentarians for their adherence to and respect for parliamentary law. I congratulate the American Institute of Parliamentarians as they celebrate Parliamentary Emphasis Month, and ask my colleagues to join me in tribute to Fresno Chapter president James Wilburn, committee co-chair`s Paula Garner and Barbara Barstow, and the entire Fresno chapter, as they observe this milestone in their organization. I wish them continued success in this worthy endeavor.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased that the House of Representatives approved the passage of H.R. 1048, the Welfare Technical Corrections Act of 1997, which I supported. The bill makes a number of technical corrections to the 104th Congress' historic welfare reform bill. I want to draw particular attention to section 407 of the bill. This section provides for: ...the sense of the Congress that Hmong and other Highland Lao veterans who fought on behalf of the Armed Forces of the United States during the Vietnam conflict and have lawfully been admitted to the United States for permanent residence should be considered veterans for purposes of continuing certain welfare benefits consistent with the exceptions provided other noncitizen veterans under the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996. The Hmong share a unique historic link with the United States and our objectives in the Vietnam war. It is because of their valiant service that these people deserve our concentrated attention. I want to thank Human Resources Subcommittee Chairman Shaw, Congressman Kleczka, Congressman Ramstad, and the remaining members of the Ways and Means Committee for including this important language in the bill. I am pleased that my communication with the committee has in some measure contributed to raising awareness about the Hmong and their unique situation. General Leave