George Radanovich

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Phil Lybarger upon being named as a ``Distinguished Life Member'' by the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 9896. Mr. Lybarger was honored on Saturday, January 31, 2009. Mr. Lybarger was born in Merced and raised in Chowchilla, California; he graduated from Chowchilla High School in 1960. He worked in manufacturing in the San Jose area before enlisting in the United States Army. After completion of basic training at Fort Ord, he reported for training at the Medical Training Specialist School at Fort Sam Houston in Texas. He was then sent for airborne training at Fort Benning, Georgia. He made five jumps from a C-19 to earn the silver wings of a paratrooper. After airborne training, he received orders to join the 173rd Airborne Brigade. Mr. Lybarger reported to the Oakland Navy Terminal and boarded the USS Billy Mitchell and headed for Okinawa. Once the ship arrived in Okinawa he participated in numerous field exercises including off-island exercises to Formosa (now Taiwan) and training sessions with Nationalist Chinese troops. He attended jungle warfare/Assault training and participated in an exercise assaulting the East China Sea island of Irimote. Upon completion of his tour to Southeast Asia, Mr. Lybarger was assigned to the 18th Airborne Corps, 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. At about the same time, the Dominican Republic was in the beginning of civil war. Former President Lyndon Johnson ordered the U.S. military to restore order, and Mr. Lybarger was deployed along with 42,000 Marines and soldiers to the Dominican Republic. He was deployed with the first wave of troops and remained on the island for as a platoon medic for seven months. Mr. Lybarger returned to the U.S. and was discharged as a Private First Class. During his service he was designated as an expert marksman with the M-1, M-14 and M-16 rifles. He was awarded Army parachutists wings and made twenty-two jumps including three night jumps. For his service, he was awarded the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal and the National Defense Service Medal. After life in the military, Mr. Lybarger attended Fresno City College, De Anze College, San Joaquin Valley College and the University of Maryland (Extension) on the G.I. Bill and was employed in manufacturing management. He is a member of the First Church of Religious Science of the Mind and volunteers as an Ombudsman for the State of California Department of Aging. He is a Life Member of Chowchilla Veterans of Foreign War Post 9896, Past Junior Vice Commander of the 11th Veterans of Foreign War District and Past Commander of Post 9896. He is a member of the 82nd Airborne Association and the 173rd Airborne Society. Mr. Lybarger and his wife Virginia continue to live in Chowchilla; they have three children and nine grandchildren. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend and congratulate Phil Lybarger upon being named as a ``Distinguished Life Member'' by the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 9896. I invite my colleagues to join me in wishing Mr. Lybarger many years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Ron Lawson upon being named as a ``Distinguished Life Member'' by the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 9896. Mr. Lawson was honored on Saturday, January 31, 2009. Mr. Lawson was born in Los Angeles and attended high school in Bell, California. At seventeen he enlisted in the United States Army. He completed basic training at Fort Ord, California and was on his way to Korea. Once in Korea, he joined the First Cavalry for thirteen months, serving with a heavy weapons infantry unit with duties along the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). He was then transferred to Germany where he served for five years with the First ARB 46th Infantry and with the 24th Infantry Division. He had duty in Berlin along the wall at Checkpoint Charlie. Upon his return to the U.S. he was assigned as a weapons instructor at Fort Polk, Louisiana. He was at Fort Polk for a short amount of time before returning to Korea for a second tour. He served in the 7th Cavalry with the 2nd Infantry Division. When he returned to the U.S., he was selected as an instructor at the Drill Sergeant Academy at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. After completion of the academy, he served as a drill sergeant for new recruits, readying them for advanced training and deployment to Vietnam. In 1970, Mr. Lawson was deployed to Southeast Asia and joined the Military Assistance Command, Vietnam. He was assigned to Team 25 and Mobile Advisory Team 97; Team 25 worked with South Vietnamese Regional Forces in the Central Highlands of II Corps. He provided expert advice to the regional soldiers in tactics while accompanying them on operations against Viet Cong and NVA forces in heavy jungle canopy and rugged mountain terrain. His units also worked with and fought alongside native Montagnard tribesmen. Mr. Lawson was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for his actions while serving with Team 25 and the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry for action with Mobile Team 97. After completing twelve months in Vietnam, Mr. Lawson returned to Fort Ord and reassumed duties as a drill sergeant. He was reassigned to Germany and joined the 1st Armored Division as Operations Sergeant. He returned to Fort Ord to serve as a first sergeant for the 7th Light Infantry Division until he retired. During Mr. Lawson's time in the Army he completed many training courses including German Language School, the 24th division NCO Academy, Instructor Preparation Course, Pre-commissioning Course at Fort Benning, Officer Leadership at Fort Ord, Infantry Armor NCO Advanced Course at Fort Benning, the NCO Republic of Vietnam Orientation Course and Drill Sergeant Academy. For his service he was awarded the Bronze Star, the Army Meritorious Service Medal, four Army Commendation Medals, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with a Gold Star, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device, the Army Occupation award, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Berlin and Korea), Korean Defense Medal, National Defense Service Medal and the Combat Infantry Badge. Mr. Lawson received six letters of commendation and was honored as Fort Ord Drill Sergeant of the Year. After Mr. Lawson retired he and his family moved to Chowchilla, California and he was employed as a maintenance supervisor. He is a member of the Young Men's Institute, Saint Columba Church and has served as a member of the City of Chowchilla Planning Commission for twenty-one years. He is a life member of the Chowchilla Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 9896 and member of the American Legion Post 148. He is also the Past Commander of Post 9896 and has held the position of Post Quartermaster for several years. Mr. Lawson currently resides in Chowchilla with his wife Mathilda, they have two children and two grandchildren. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend and congratulate Ron Lawson upon being named as a ``Distinguished Life Member'' by the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 9896. I invite my colleagues to join me in wishing Mr. Lawson many years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Nis Nissen upon being named as a ``Distinguished Life Member'' by the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 9896. Mr. Nissen was honored on Saturday, January 31, 2009. Mr. Nissen was born in Santa Monica, California in October 1948. He graduated from Mira Costa High School and enlisted in the U.S. Navy in July 1968. He completed Navy boot camp in San Diego. After a brief training period, he was designated as an engineman and was sent to join thousands of American service members fighting the North Vietnamese. He was assigned to the USS Tutuila, a 442-foot length, Luzon Internal Combustion Engine Repair Shop. The USS Tutuila functioned as a repair ship for the hundreds of small armed craft, or swift boats, used by the U.S. Navy and their South Vietnamese counterparts in patrolling the numerous inland and coastal waterways. Mr. Nissen and his fellow sailors worked around the clock to keep the swift boats functioning. They were often responsible for towing boats out of hostile areas and transporting wounded sailors to safety. During his service on the USS Tutuila, Mr. Nissen became interested in the work of the medical staff and became a ``striker'' for a rating as a dental technician. He served fifteen months in Vietnam and upon his return to the U.S. he completed training for a dental technician. After dental school he was assigned to the medical facility at the Naval Air Station at Lemoore, California. He was later transferred to Naval Air Station at Kodiak Island, Alaska. He completed his active duty service in 1972. Upon discharge, Mr. Nissen served as a civilian employee at the U.S. Air Force radar tracking station on Kodiak Island where they tracked Soviet aircraft and missiles. He received an honorable discharge as a Dental Technician third class. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with three stars and the Vietnam Campaign with Device. Today, Mr. Nissen is the owner-broker of Old West Realty in Chowchilla. He has served as a charter member of the City of Chowchilla Historical Preservation Commission, is a life member of Chowchilla Veterans of Foreign Wars Post, 9896 and is a member of the Masons. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend and congratulate Nis Nissen upon being named as a ``Distinguished Life Member'' by the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 9896. I invite my colleagues to join me in wishing Mr. Nissen many years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Madam Speaker, yesterday I went to the Rules Committee and offered an amendment to the Omnibus Public Lands bill that would have saved 80,000 jobs and over $2.2 billion worth of income in my district by ending the regulatory drought that currently plagues the San Joaquin Valley. Surprisingly, the Rules Committee said ``no'' to saving 80,000 jobs despite bipartisan support. My amendment would have temporarily removed the restrictions the Endangered Species Act places on Federal and State water pumps in the California Bay-Delta, allowing water to be moved from northern and central California to farming families in my district and to millions of urban Californians in the southern portion of the State. Pumping and storing more water is necessary if we want to relieve the devastating drought in California. Yet, the Rules Committee didn't consider the billions of dollars and jobs it would save to be worthwhile. The way this legislation has been put together and shuttled through Congress is atrocious. The majority has sprinkled a few meritorious provisions in an effort to buy votes around what is otherwise damaging legislation. This bill blocks millions of acres from new oil and gas leasing and all other business activity. Further, the bill designates more than 2 million acres as wilderness acres, permanently restricting public access. The Federal Government already owns 30 percent of the total land area of the United States. It doesn't need any more. Though I will not vote for the Omnibus Public Lands bill for the serious reasons previously stated, there are some supportable measures in the bill. The Tuolumne Me-Wuk Land Transfer Act, the Madera Water Supply Enhancement Act, and the San Joaquin River Restoration Settlement are three examples. The Madera Water Supply Enhancement Act creates an underground water bank in my district which is desperately needed in the San Joaquin Valley to mitigate the effects of drought and the onerous Endangered Species Act regulations. I also support the San Joaquin River Restoration Settlement, resolving a 20-year lawsuit that threatened the water supply for farmers in the San Joaquin Valley. The San Joaquin River Restoration Settlement gave my agricultural constituents something they did not previously have: a seat at the negotiating table. Before the settlement, a Federal judge was going to decide how much water farmers would lose in order to restore a salmon fishery. By giving farmers a voice in the solution, the settlement prevents an agricultural disaster and gives the agricultural community some control over their water future. Additionally, all 22 water districts of the Friant Water Users Authority have consistently voted in support of the settlement. The settlement is a product of hardworking folks who simply want to continue growing food to feed this great Nation with a safe, reliable, and efficient water supply. I believe we have accomplished that goal in this settlement.

Mr. RADANOVICH. Madam Speaker, I support these portions of the Omnibus Public Lands Act, and believe that they should be passed on their own merit. However, for reasons stated above, I cannot support the overall package and urge my colleagues to vote again this rule that did not allow a vote to save 80,000 jobs and over $2 million in income in California at no cost to the taxpayers.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Milca Gutierrez upon being named as the Children's Miracle Network's ``California Champion Across America'' for 2009. Miss Gutierrez will be honored on Tuesday, March 17, 2009 at Children's Hospital Central California at an event to kick off the local and national public awareness program. Milca Gutierrez, of Fresno, California, was diagnosed when she was four months old with a rare disorder called ontogenesis imperfecta, commonly known as brittle bone disease. This rare disorder affects the connective tissue and causes bones to break easily and without any apparent reason. At the age of eleven, Miss Gutierrez has been seen at Children's Hospital Central California over 180 times and has undergone over ten operations; she remains positive with her motto ``It's just a bone.'' Miss Gutierrez is a constant source of brightness and support, whether to herself or others, she has a unique ability to always help those around her. Once a year she and her family travel to their native hometown in Mexico to provide clothes, toys and stuffed animals to families in need. She is able to live an active and full life; she loves swimming, math and dreams of becoming a doctor. Her unique situation has placed her in a position to advocate for children's hospitals across the nation, serve as a ``Champion'' for the State of California and act as an ambassador for the seventeen million children who are treated at children's hospitals every year. The Children's Miracle Network sponsors a variety of events to help raise money for children's hospitals; including the Champions Across America initiative, where one child from each state is selected to serve as a champion to help highlight the importance of a children's hospitals. Miss Gutierrez, along with her fellow champions, and her family will travel to Walt Disney World to participate in the Children's Miracle Network Celebration and to Washington, D.C. to highlight the vital work of children's hospitals. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend and congratulate Milca Gutierrez upon her achievements and strength. I invite my colleagues to join me in wishing Miss Gutierrez many years of happiness and success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Tuolumne County Alliance for Resources and Environment, incorporated upon the celebration of their 20th anniversary. The anniversary will be celebrated on Saturday, March 14, 2009 at the ``Annual Dinner and Auction'' in Sonora, California. Tuolumne County Alliance for Resources and Environment, Inc, or TuCARE, was first organized in 1989 when a group of individuals came together to enlighten others in the wise use of natural resources in Tuolumne County. The organization has a history of commitment to ensuring the long-term viability of all of the natural resources through an ecosystem management approach toward the stewardship of the public lands. They are firm believers that man must play an active role to protect the forests from the destruction of wildfires. The multiple- use system that TuCARE promotes allows for everyone to benefit from the forest. Livestock owners use the pastures in the summer, miners are allowed to extract minerals, loggers can help thin the forest and everyone can enjoy the recreation the forest has to offer. The organization ensures that the private and the public sector work together to protect property rights and to educate our future generations. TuCARE advocates awareness in schools and communities by sponsoring ``Tours for Kids'' for more than twelve hundred students each year and a Natural Resources Tour for invited guests from the State of California, Congress, local businesses, educators and various agencies. TuCARE is connected to schools in Tuolumne, Calaveras and Stanislaus Counties and participates in the Tuolumne County Schools Forestry Institute for Teachers and presents to civic groups and organizations. They also sponsor various public forums on issues related to natural resources and is represented at the annual Alliance on American Fly-in for Freedom forum held in Washington, DC. The organization prepares press releases for all media outlets and meets with local, state and federal elected officials regarding issues of concern. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend and congratulate Tuolumne County Alliance for Resources and Environment, Inc. on twenty years of service. I invite my colleagues to join me in wishing TuCARE many years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor and thank Fresno County Sheriff Margaret Mims, Supervisor Judy Case, Julianne Tuggle, and Darren Rose for their heroic efforts in an emergency situation in Washington, D.C. on February 11, 2009. Sheriff Mims, Supervisor Case, Julianne Tuggle from Supervisor Susan Anderson's office, and Darren Rose from my district office deserve full recognition for their responsiveness and public service in the nation's capital, where they gave first aid to an individual who was in a state of cardiac arrest. The 21-year-old man was unresponsive and lying face down on the ground in a crowded Metro station near the Capitol building. Julianne and Darren were the first upon the scene; Julianne initiated the emergency response among the eclectic mix of Fresno County Officials in the vicinity while Darren Rose called 911 and coordinated the response with DC fire and emergency medical services. Julianne was able to procure a pocket face mask. Supervisor Case affixed the mask and breathed for the patient. Sheriff Mims and Supervisor Case began skilled compression and breathing coordination efforts until the man, who originally had no pulse, was able to breathe on his own. Sheriff Mims has been trained in first aid, and Supervisor Case is a registered nurse who had just been recertified in CPR, and knew the most current standard medical procedure. Together, they performed chest compressions and provided air for his lungs, which kept him stable and breathing until the Washington medics arrived 10 minutes later. I had the honor to be able to meet with these local heroes when they were in Washington with the Council of County Governments (COG) as part of the ``One Voice'' delegation, which unites communities and regional interests in a voluntary and collaborative effort to promote and bring attention to the needs of the local community and regions. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend and thank Sheriff Mims, Supervisor Case, Julianne Tuggle from Supervisor Anderson's office, and Darren Rose from my office for their service to the community and their heroism in providing emergency services to stabilize and preserve the life of this citizen in D.C. and in their everyday efforts on the job.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Central California Hispanic Chamber of Commerce upon the celebration of their 25th anniversary. The anniversary will be celebrated on Friday March 13, 2009 in Fresno, California. In 1983 a small, influential group of Hispanic business owners in the Fresno area came together and identified a need for a business organization that was aimed toward growing and developing Hispanic owned businesses. The leaders began to develop strong ties to the California Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Together they built the foundation and began to gather support from local businesses and leaders to form the Central California Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (CCHCC). Under the leadership of Hugo Morales, Carmen Navarro, Jo Ann Orijel, the late Albert Ramirez, Jorge Acuna, David Mendoza, Rose Molina, and others, the CCHCC was formed. The focus for the first couple of years was to become incorporated, obtain non-profit status, to expand and cover the Central Valley and to create by-laws and establish a board of directors. This was accomplished by 1985. The CCHCC further gained momentum when State Center Community College District, California State University, Fresno, Pepsi-Cola and other corporations pledged their support. These early supporters help catapult CCHCC into becoming a viable business organization. Today, CCHCC is involved in addressing the quality of life for the Hispanic community. The CCHCC has hosted several events to promote and revitalize local Hispanic businesses and boost the economy for the entire Central Valley. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend and congratulate Central California Hispanic Chamber of Commerce on 25 years of business. I invite my colleagues to join me in wishing CCHCC many years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Madam Speaker, pursuant to the House Republican standards on earmarks, I am submitting the following information regarding earmarks I received as a part of H.R. 1105, The Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009: Requesting Member: Congressman George Radanovich Project Name: California State University Agricultural Research Initiative Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Cooperative State Research, Education and Extension Service Legal Name of Requesting Entity: California State University Address of Requesting Entity: 401 Golden Shore, Long Beach, CA 90802- 094210 Description of Request: I have secured $693,000 for the ARI. The Agriculture Research Initiatives (ARI) provides significant benefits to consumers as well as agriculture-related industries. Faculty and research scientists develop solutions for challenges that result in public confidence in food safety, agricultural research and production systems; regional and statewide economic development; and bring agricultural, environmental, and consumer benefits in the process. ARI funding priority will be given to science and best management issues related to climate change, air quality, greenhouse gas emissions, and carbon sequestering; food safety and security; water quality, infrastructure, and conveyance; and public health and welfare. Requesting Member: Congressman George Radanovich Project Name: Pierce's Disease Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Cooperative State Research Education and Extension Service Legal Name of Requesting Entity: University of California Address of Requesting Entity: 1111 Franklin Street, 6th Floor, Oakland, CA 94607-5200 Description of Request: I have secured $1,531,000 for Pierce's Disease Research. The Pierce's Disease Research special research grant funds are awarded competitively to qualified researchers from any state based on priorities developed by industry, the University and governmental agencies. The program has supported projects to reduce the population of glassy-winged sharpshooters that spread the disease, map the genome for xylella fastidiosa--the bacterium that causes the disease--develop new cultural and vineyard practices to help growers contain the spread of Pierce's disease, and advance the search for long-term solutions. Continuation of funding is important to supporting ongoing science aimed at finding permanent solutions for control and containment of this devastating disease through breeding disease resistant scion and rootstock, developing new vineyard management practices, and other breakthroughs. Requesting Member: Congressman George Radanovich Project Name: Regional Operability for Public Safety Communications, 2009 Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Department of Justice, COPS Law Enforcement Technology Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Stanislaus County Address of Requesting Entity: 1010 10th Street, Suite 6800, Modesto, CA 95354 Description of Request: I have secured $500,000 for Stanislaus County Regional Interoperability. This request will enhance the existing interoperability channel, expand radio coverage through difficult terrain, replace aging equipment, continue progress towards system wide P-25 compliance, and will support the City and County's joint efforts to respond to public safety incidents throughout California's Central Valley and to be prepared for a disaster situation. Equipment would include new towers, transmitters, antennae, voter/receivers and a security system at the primary transmission site. Requesting Member: Congressman George Radanovich Project Name: Regional Interoperability, 2009 Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Department of Justice, COPS Law Enforcement Technology Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Fresno County Address of Requesting Entity: 2281 Tulare Street, Third Floor, Room 300, Fresno, CA 93721 Description of Request: I have secured $200,000 for Fresno County Regional Interoperability. Fresno County is attempting to provide true communication capabilities between law enforcement, emergency medical services and fire protection serving Fresno County and the region by using an intelligent voice and data communication network. This request will enable the completion of an electronic data communication system. The completion of the system will greatly enhance the public safety of the approximately 1.5 million citizens of four counties (Fresno, Kings, Madera, and a portion of Tulare) and numerous communities served by the participating agencies through ensuring clear voice, data and video communications among first responders and law enforcement during emergencies. Requesting Member: Congressman George Radanovich Project Name: Sacramento and San Joaquin River Basins Comprehensive Study Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Corps of Engineers, Investigations Legal Name of Requesting Entity: California Department of Water Resources Address of Requesting Entity: 1416 9th Street, Sacramento, CA 95814 Description of Request: I have secured $956,000 for the Sacramento and San Joaquin River Basin's Comprehensive Study. This Sacramento and San Joaquin River Basins Comprehensive Study is a cooperative effort between the California Department of Water Resources and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The purpose of the Comprehensive Study is to develop a system-wide, comprehensive flood management plan for the Central Valley to reduce flood damage and to integrate ecosystem restoration in addition to developing ways to reduce the flood risk to people, their property, and the state and federal infrastructure of the Central Valley. The purpose is also to develop a sustainable flood management system for the future and to reduce the adverse consequences of floods when they occur. The Study provides a long-range management program for the Sacramento and San Joaquin River Basins with the objective of improving the flood carrying capacity of the system while restoring and protecting environmental features including wetlands as well as fish and wildlife habitat. Requesting Member: Congressman George Radanovich Project Name: Career Technical Education Pathway Program Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Department of Education, Elementary and Secondary Education Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Clovis Unified School District Address of Requesting Entity: 1450 Herndon Avenue, Clovis, CA 93611 Description of Request: I have secured $476,000 for the Clovis Career Technical Education Pathway Program. Funding will provide essential curriculum and professional development and equipment to support the dual objectives of advancing student academic achievement and career development in workforce areas essential to our national economic development. This funding will allow students to develop knowledge and skills within the career pathway while taking rigorous, integrated courses that include Honors and Advanced Placement curriculum for college and university admissions. Each pathway will prepare students for post-secondary education, employment, or advanced training in a particular industry sector. Requesting Member: Congressman George Radanovich Project Name: Veterans Boulevard Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Transportation, Community, and System Preservation Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of Fresno Address of Requesting Entity: 2600 Fresno Street, Fresno, CA 93721 Description of Request: I have secured $570,000 for Veterans Boulevard. The funding will be used for the preliminary engineering and design of a major thoroughfare, the Veterans Boulevard freeway interchange at State Route 99, which will alleviate growing traffic concerns as substantial development continues to expand in the northwest region of Fresno County. Veterans Boulevard is planned as a new six lane super-arterial roadway which includes bridges over SR 99, Golden State Boulevard and the Union Pacific Railroad tracks. The interchange is a critical element to alleviate congestion at the Shaw Avenue/SR 99 and the Herndon Avenue/SR 99 interchanges. Requesting Member: Congressman George Radanovich Project Name: State Route 180 East Improvements Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Transportation, Community, and System Preservation Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of Fresno Address of Requesting Entity: 2600 Fresno Street, Fresno, CA 93721 Description of Request: I have secured $1,330,000 for State Route 180 East Improvements. The funding will be used to complete State Route 180 which will accommodate increased safe traffic flows vital for economic and commercial development of eastern Fresno County and will enhance farm-to-market shipping opportunities for the region. State Route 180 is vital to the economic health of the Central Valley. This vital corridor will provide the much needed East-West route extensions that will ultimately provide a connection to the only Interstate in Fresno County, Interstate 5. State Route 180 improvements help relieve State Route 99 of truck traffic and air pollution by moving traffic away from the metropolitan Fresno area.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Lou Herwaldt upon being awarded with the ``2009 Leon S. Peters Award.'' Mr. Herwaldt was honored at a luncheon held by the Greater Fresno Area Chamber of Commerce on February 18, 2009. The Herwaldt name has had a lasting significance in the Fresno community. For almost sixty years Lou Herwaldt has been providing vehicles, service and employment to the residents of the Central Valley. In 1955, Mr. Herwaldt went to work for Frank J. Saunders dealership and after nearly twenty years he decided to establish his own firm. In 1969, Mr. Herwaldt opened Sierra-Chrysler Plymouth. In forty years, his dealerships have represented ten auto models, including Oldsmobile, Mercedes Benz, Subaru and Saturn. Throughout his career, he has excelled at all levels and was even named to serve on the General Motors President's Council; he served in the group that developed the new ``Saturn'' brand for General Motors. Mr. Herwaldt has also been an active member in the Fresno community. He served thirteen years on the Board of Fresno Community Hospital, including seven years as Chairman. He was instrumental to the formation of the present multi-campus Community Regional Medical Center. He has been a member of the North Fresno Rotary Club for forty years and served as president. Mr. Herwaldt has chaired the boards for the Fresno Leadership Foundation and Fresno Youth for Christ. He has served on the boards of the Fresno Better Business Bureau and Master's College in Castaic, California. Finally, Mr. Herwaldt is a board member of the Fansler Foundation and founded the Herwaldt Foundation, primarily supporting faith-based charitable organizations. He has received many accolades for his contributions including being named the 2002 St. Agnes Hospital Benefactor of the Year. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the accomplishments of Lou Herwaldt. I invite my colleagues to join me in honoring his accomplishments and wishing him the best in future endeavors.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to posthumously honor the life of Lee Roy Mayhall. Mr. Mayhall passed away on January 26, 2009 at the age of seventy-seven, after a long battle with cancer. Lee Roy Mayhall took great pride in his hometown of Oakhurst, California. He was one of the original founding members of the Citizens on Patrol (COP) program that was launched in 2000. The COP concept began in 1999, with one car and a couple of volunteers. Mr. Mayhall and his wife, Jean, were among those few original volunteers. Within seven years, the small unit expanded into an entire fleet. With the increase in volunteers, they are able to cover the rural communities of Oakhurst, North Fork, Coarsegold, Chowchilla, Eastside Acres and the Madera Ranchos, all in Madera County. During the summer months the COP volunteers assist the Sheriffs Boat Patrol on Bass Lake. Mr. and Mrs. Mayhall, along with the dedicated COP volunteers, serve as a second set of eyes and ears for the Sheriff's Department. They served as partners in the programs; together they donated countless hours and money to assist in financing critical training. Mr. and Mrs. Mayhall were honored in 2007 by the Madera County Supervisors for their years of service and dedication to the citizens of Madera County. Mr. Mayhall was also the recipient of the ``Above and Beyond'' award for his outstanding contributions to the community. Madam Speaker, I invite my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Lee Roy Mayhall. I wish continued success to Mrs. Mayhall and the COP program.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend and congratulate the accomplishments of Brotherhood of the Badge, International based out of Fresno, California. In the organization's short history, its members have successfully completed two trips to Iraq and Afghanistan to deliver law enforcement equipment to the Iraqi Police Officers. In November 2003, Mike Harris discovered a cause well worth his time and energy. After hearing about Iraqi civilian police and military forces who were without proper gear and equipment, protecting the American soldiers, Mr. Harris came to the realization that he had to find a way to help. He has been in law enforcement for over thirty years and was well aware of surplus and outdated equipment that every law enforcement agency had acquired over the years. This non- serviceable equipment is a burden to the agencies because it cannot be thrown away. To destroy it is extremely costly, and in previous years the old equipment has been found with criminals after the agencies had donated it to Mexican police. Mr. Harris had previously been involved in another type of assistance to Iraqi officers; a joint venture to financially assist a wounded officer that had been working with the California National Guard. This gave Mr. Harris a good grasp of the short supply of equipment in Iraq and he came up with the idea to take the surplus supplies and send them to the Iraqi government for their police forces. After working through the Iraq government for a waiver of liability, as well as working with the Fresno City Council, the organization came to fruition. In February 2004, five people, including Mr. Harris, traveled to Iraq and Afghanistan to donate vests, radios, helmets, leather equipment and riot equipment. The Fresno group outfitted five hundred Iraqi police officers. In the spring of 2006, the Brotherhood of the Badge, International made a second trip to Iraq, this time the mission was different. The team made the trip to personally assess the needs of the civilian Iraqi police forces in the Salah ad-Din Province. This trip was also made at the invitation of General Turner of the U.S. Army's 101st Airborne. The mission of the 101st is to work to help the Iraqis establish the proper local government and police functions that will allow them to function on their own. Since 2003, the Brotherhood of the Badge, International has gained non-profit status and has established a board that includes members of local law enforcement, the fire department, an elected official and a community volunteer. The organization has sent 20,000 bulletproof vests, thousands of helmets, radios and other protective equipment to Iraq and Afghanistan. Over one hundred law enforcement agencies from across the United States have donated equipment and the group has collected over 2.7 million dollars in private donations for the purchase of new bulletproof vests. U.S. military forces distribute the gear and it is currently being used to protect Iraqi police officers and firefighters. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend the Brotherhood of the Badge, International for their commitment to serve law enforcement agencies in Iraq and Afghanistan. I invite my colleagues to join me in wishing the organization many years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, the bill before us calls for the efficient use of water, and I think that is a very, very good goal. One place that water is not being efficiently used by the environmental community is in my district back in California. Due to drought conditions and the abuse of the Endangered Species Act, which is placing the needs of fish over the needs of farmers, the agriculture economy in our region stands to lose over 40,000 jobs and over $1 billion in revenue. Considering the bleak outlook for California's economy, one would think that this so-called economic stimulus legislation might do something to address this problem. Further, one might also think that if there was a way to address this problem without spending one dime of the taxpayers' money, this stimulus plan would include that option. In fact, there is a way to save those 40,000 jobs in my district, and billions of dollars in lost income, at no cost. Just temporarily suspend the Endangered Species Act as it applies to the pumps in the Sacramento San Joaquin Delta Pumps. But does this stimulus plan include that proposal? Of course not. Because the stimulus plan is not stimulus at all--it is a big spending bill of gigantic proportions. Heaven forbid that our friends on the other side of the aisle would try to save jobs without spending money. Instead, we are spending money: $4 billion per year on the voter fraud organization called ACORN. How can this be considered stimulus? Instead, we are going to spend barely 1 day passing a trillion-dollar stimulus bill that spends nearly $300 million to purchase golf carts. Maybe the majority feels that the country club community are the people who are really hurting right now. This bill only sends our country and our children deeper and deeper in debt, and the special interest spending contained within it are not in America's best interest. Please join me in voting ``no'' on this bill.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend the Fresno Deputy Sheriff's Association for their commitment to serving the City and County of Fresno, California. For over thirty years the Fresno Deputy Sheriff's Association (FDSA) has maintained the goal of working for the rights and protection of law enforcement, as well as to serve the citizens of Fresno County. Originally the FDSA was organized to give deputy sheriffs the opportunity to collectively bargain with the county for wages, benefits and working conditions. Once fully operating, the FDSA was able to establish better labor conditions for the deputy sheriffs and began actively participating in the community. The FDSA donates time and monetary resources to various charitable organizations. It is also active in the state association, the Peace Officer's Research Association of California. Today the FDSA represents over five hundred active employees. The membership includes deputy sheriffs, dispatchers, community service officers, identification technicians, criminalists and deputy coroners. The variety of job classifications allows the FDSA to represent both sworn and support personnel throughout the enforcement side of the Fresno Sheriff's Office. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend the Fresno Deputy Sheriff's Association for their commitment to serving the personnel of the Fresno Sheriff's Office. I invite my colleagues to join me in wishing the organization many years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend the Fresno Police Officer's Association for their commitment to serving the city and county of Fresno, California. For over one hundred years, the Fresno Police Officer's Association (FPOA) has had a presence in Fresno. The organization was first known as the ``Widow and Orphan's Organization'' and provided assistance to the families of its members. The name was changed to the ``Fresno Police Relief Association'' and in 1951 was incorporated. The service that the organization provided expanded at this time to focus on improving benefits, salary and working conditions for the members. In 1975, the name of the organization finally became the Fresno Police Officer's Association. Throughout the organization's hundred years, its primary purpose has always been ``Service.'' Today the FPOA has over eleven thousand members and a Board of Directors consisting of eighteen elected positions. The Board positions include three officers (President, First Vice President and Second Vice President), twelve Directors at Large, one Staff Director and two Retiree Directors. The FPOA assists members with supplemental health benefits, provides scholarships to dependent children of active or retired members, offers legal assistance and helps with various disability issues. The group also gives back to the community by getting involved with charitable events. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend the Fresno Police Officer's Association for their commitment to serving the police officers of Fresno. I invite my colleagues to join me in wishing the organization many years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. I thank the gentleman from Texas for that. Last week, Madam Speaker, I joined a bipartisan group of colleagues in opposing a recklessly wasteful economic stimulus package that promised $32 billion for my home State of California, currently suffering from 8.2 percent unemployment. California does not need $32 billion worth of spending to stimulate the economy because, at the same time, our State water supply has been hijacked by the irresponsible Endangered Species Act. A simple flip of the switch at the pumps at the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta could save 40,000 jobs and rescue a $90 billion industry from the brink of disaster. Instead, my colleagues on the other side of the aisle seem more interested in spending money like drunken sailors and watch the Endangered Species Act literally dehydrate one of America's most prosperous industries. Every one of my colleagues from California has no excuse not to join me in calling for a temporary suspension of the Endangered Species Act to immediately start the flow of water from the delta pumps in California.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Madam Speaker, I rise today in opposition to the digital television delay bill that the House will be voting on under suspension today. The bill needlessly delays the DTV transition date of February 17 and undermines the government's credibility with consumers and broadcasters who have prepared for the transition, as well as the private industry that is relying on the spectrum that they purchased to be available. The bill also facilitates the need for $650 million in the stimulus to be spent on the converter box coupon program but ironically does not get a single person off the coupon waiting list. Finally, the bill prevents spectrum from being cleared for first responders and emergency communications. Delaying the transition is confusing to our consumers, expensive for our broadcasters, will slow down deployment of broadband services, and has potentially dangerous implications for public safety. Therefore, I urge my colleagues to keep the digital transition on the right path and oppose Senate bill 238.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. The capabilities and, in some cases, the failures of modern technology, have brought the issues of data privacy and data security into the lives of all Americans. Whether it be at work, in health, in finance, or online generally, we all must be concerned about the unauthorized access to personal information, access which could put our livelihoods and, in extreme cases, our lives even at stake. The Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade, and Consumer Protection has received testimony over the years about corporate data breaches that have damaged people financially as well as heard heartbreaking stories of stalkers stealing or buying personal information. As the new ranking member of the subcommittee, I am particularly concerned about these issues. Just last week, we got reports about the hacking of the New Jersey- based credit card processor, Heartland Payment Systems. This company processes more than 5 billion transactions a year, involving tens of millions of credit card numbers, and someone was able to break into their system and monitor these transactions. This is just another example of how all of us must be aware of the security of sensitive information. Furthermore, not only must individuals be careful with their information, but the businesses which we entrust with that data must guard it as if it were their very own. I want to commend Mr. Price and Mr. Stearns for bringing this resolution before us today, and I want to thank Mr. Barton, Mr. Waxman, and Mr. Dingell for their continued efforts to address this issue. I want to lend my support to their efforts to educate the American public about ways to protect their personal information. I look forward to continuing to work in this Congress to ensure the proper security of data and appropriate notice to consumers when their information is lost or revealed and there is significant risk of damage, financial or otherwise. I fully support the goals and ideals of the National Data Privacy Day on January 28, and I urge all my colleagues to join in this effort.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate and express my appreciation for the service of Alan Autry as mayor of Fresno, California. Alan's first term began in January 2001, and he served for 8 years as Fresno's mayor. During this time, Alan's leadership and passion for the community of Fresno led to an unprecedented turnaround in the city, which is evident from its infrastructure and aesthetic value to its safety and fiscal responsibility. Alan had much success in his two terms, including bridging the gap between North and South Fresno, or ``The Tale of Two Cities'' according to Alan. He successfully brought insight and urban renewal and development to Fresno's poorest neighborhoods, by increasing infrastructure, sidewalks, gutters, and streetlights in many areas of the city previously neglected with regard to modern essentials. Under Alan's service, downtown Fresno was visually transformed. He championed a movement to aesthetically improve many areas of Fresno, the largest project of which was modernizing the convention center. The safety and security of Fresno's residents was vastly improved by Alan's city policies, which included bringing up-to-date police and fire stations, and improving, cleaning, and expanding public spaces like city parks, which provide places for families and students to engage in healthful and constructive activity. Alan is also a true fiscal conservative and a vigilant guardian of taxpayer money. When he took office in January 2001, Fresno's ledger showed that the city was $500,000 in debt. By January 2009, Fresno had a significant turnaround with a surplus of $17.5 million. Education was also an important element in Alan's ``Tale of Two Cities'' platform. He fought hard against multiple levels of government to seek to influence and improve Fresno's notoriously under-performing schools, because he believes that good, effective schools are foundational in a healthy community. Alan possesses a concern and care for his community that characterized his terms as mayor and underlines his leadership style. He was often out within the community talking to and caring for people. This helped to make him a very popular and well-respected member of the community and an esteemed leader. I congratulate Alan on the job he did in his 8 years as Fresno's mayor; I am proud to call him my friend, and continue to look forward to sharing many ideas and projects with him in the future.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Michael Tollefson upon his retirement as the Superintendent of Yosemite National Park. After thirty-six years with the National Park Service, Superintendent Tollefson will be honored on Saturday, January 17, 2009 at a party to be held at Curry Village Pavilion, in Yosemite National Park. Michael Tollefson was raised in Seattle, Washington and graduated from the University of Washington in 1970 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in marketing and finance. He later returned to graduate school to study park management. As a young adult he served in the United States Army Reserves for eight years, attaining the rank of Captain. His introduction into the National Park Service began early in his career. Mr. Tollefson served as the Chief of Interpretation at Virgin Islands National Park. He also spent time as the Chief of Operations at Lake Clark National Park and Preserve, as a District Ranger at Denali National Park and Park Ranger at Katmai National Park all in Alaska. His time in Alaska provided unique challenges in dealing with Alaskan brown bears, fragile coral reefs and endangered humpback whales. He officially began his National Park Service career as a seasonal ranger at North Cascades National Park in 1972. In 1983, Mr. Tollefson attained his first superintendency position at Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve in Alaska. He managed the 3.3 million acre park for four years. While there, he implemented regulations guiding cruise ship operations in the park for the protection of the Humpback Whales. After four years, he became the Associate Regional Director for Operations in the National Park Service's former Pacific Northwest Region. He was stationed in Seattle and provided support for all aspects of operations to the twenty national park units in Washington, Oregon and Idaho. In 1995, Superintendent Tollefson moved to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks in California's Southern Sierra Nevada. During his tenure, he was responsible for guiding the restoration of over two hundred acres in the Giant Forest Sequoia Grove to protect the world's largest organism, the Giant Sequoia Tree. The project involved the removal of over two hundred buildings, and the development of a new hotel complex built outside the grove to replace the visitor facilities. After completing the project, he then served as superintendent of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the largest federally protected mountain ecosystem in the Eastern United States, spanning between Tennessee and North Carolina. The primary issues emphasized during his tenure included air quality, traffic congestion, educational programs and scientific studies. In January 2003, Superintendent Tollefson made his way to Yosemite National Park as Superintendent. Over the past six years he has worked tirelessly to guide a major construction program to repair the old infrastructure, improve visitor services, provide increased resource protection and expand gateway partnerships and outreach educational programs. Some of the projects that have been completed under Supervisor Tollefson include new viewing facilities at the foot of Yosemite Falls, improvements to landmark areas such as the famous view spots near the Wawona Tunnel and at Olmsted Point on the Tioga Road, overhauling the valley visitor center, and replacing a fleet of diesel buses with hybrid busses. With the assistance of the Yosemite Fund, the Superintendent has been able to complete a $13.5 million restoration of the approach to Yosemite Falls, a $1.5 million restoration of Olmsted Point and a $13.5 million campaign to improve trails in Yosemite Valley, Mariposa Grove of Redwoods and in the backcountry. Most recently the $3.2 million Tunnel View Restoration Project was completed. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend and congratulate Superintendent Michael Tollefson upon his retirement from Yosemite National Park. I invite my colleagues to join me in wishing Superintendent Tollefson many years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Madam Speaker, I rise today, along with my colleagues, Representative Jim Costa and Representative Devin Nunes, to commend and congratulate Mary Ann Riojas upon being selected by ABC's reality television show, ``Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.'' Ms. Riojas and her family were surprised by Ty Pennington and his crew on January 8, 2009 at their home in Fresno, CA. Mary Ann Riojas was born without legs and with only one fully developed arm. As a child, Ms. Riojas was placed into the foster care system, and was faced with an unstable home life. She began to gain her independence when she was introduced into the Easter Seals program and they provided her with her first wheelchair. With this wheelchair she was able to attend Easter Seals Camp Harmon in the Santa Cruz Mountains. At Camp Harmon she learned how to swim and was able to participate in camp activities. The summer camp program provided her an opportunity to meet new people, try new things and continue to gain her independence. As a young adult, Ms. Riojas decided to stay at home and raise her four children. For a short time she was receiving public assistance to keep her family afloat. In spite of her disabilities, and financial struggle, she was determined to become the first in her family to earn a college degree; she graduated in 2002 from San Joaquin Valley College with an Associate of Arts degree in business administration. To further her independence, she obtained her drivers license, and with the assistance of Easter Seals, she purchased her first fully-equipped, hand-controlled vehicle. When she was unable to find a job because of her disabilities, Ms. Riojas became an employee of Easter Seals. Her first job was as the office manager at the Child Development Center at Children's Hospital Central California. In 2005, she became the National Ambassador for Easter Seals and travelled all over the country spreading her joy and enthusiasm for life. Ms. Riojas eventually changed jobs, and in 2006, she began working for the Fresno Housing Authority as a counselor. This position has allowed her to assist families in her community that are facing housing and financial problems. Ms. Riojas does not see herself as disabled, but rather as a mother and an advocate for those with special needs. She is a strong woman who has raised four children; Nichole, Victoria, Angel and Jessie. She continues to inspire others on a daily basis. Being selected for the show is a tribute to Ms. Riojas' dedication to her community and personal commitment to overcome all of life's adversities. Madam Speaker, we rise today to commend and congratulate Mary Ann Riojas upon being selected for the ABC reality show ``Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.'' I invite my colleagues to join me in wishing Ms. Riojas and her family many years of happiness and success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Melanie Barker as the outgoing President of the Yosemite Gateway Association of Realtors. Ms. Barker will be recognized at the annual installation luncheon for the Yosemite Gateway Association of Realtors on November 21, 2008 in Oakhurst, California. The Yosemite Gateway Association of Realtors (YGAOR) was first known as the Mountain Co-Op in 1998 with a group of eight volunteers. Today, the group has paid professional staff and ownership of the Association's building. YGAOR was responsible for developing one of the first computerized Multiple Listing Systems, which continues to operate with the latest technology. They work very closely with the California Association of Realtors by providing leadership at regional and statewide levels. YGAOR provides educational opportunities for members and fundraising activities that benefit local non-profit organizations and scholarship programs. Under Ms. Barker's leadership, YGAOR had a very successful year. The 8th Annual Monster Rummage Sale was held earlier this year and raised over $70,000, the highest since it's establishment. The proceeds were donated to local non-profit charities. Over the years, the YGAOR Scholarship Golf Tournament has raised over $84,000 for college scholarships for high school seniors from local high schools. Ms. Barker has been instrumental in the establishment of the Women's Council of Realtors. She was able to establish an ``Affiliate Committee'' to give the Association direct communication to the Office of the President. The committee structure within YGAOR has become stronger with her leadership by prioritizing structure and establishing goals to be discussed at biannual meetings. Ms. Barker has successfully brought the Senior Real Estate Specialist designation to the area through the efforts of the Education Committee. With Ms. Barker's role at YGAOR, she has been a strong leader by providing a voice of optimism for local real estate. She has involved herself with many speaking engagements and editorial opportunities. Her goal was to provide a positive realtor image in the community and has accomplished this through her leadership during one of the toughest housing markets this nation has ever seen. She has been able to develop and build upon relationships with fellow realtors throughout the region and the state. She has also committed three weeks a year to further her education on the real estate industry and in turn, teach other members of YGAOR. Ms. Barker, the committee chairs and all of the volunteers have made 2008 a very successful year. In 2008, Ms. Barker was also elected as Assistant Region 12 Chair for the California Association of Realtors and will become the Region 12 Chair in 2010. Prior to being named as President of YGAOR, she was the first Local Government Relations Chair and Government Affairs Director for YGAOR. In 2006, Ms. Barker became a California Golden R. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend and congratulate Melanie Barker upon her achievements. I invite my colleagues to join me in wishing Ms. Barker and the Yosemite Gateway Association of Realtors many years of continued success.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Madam Speaker, I rise today with my colleague from California Mr. Cardoza to honor the life of Ernie Gemperle for his dedication and service to his community and family. Mr. Gemperle passed away at the age of seventy-nine on Saturday, November 15, 2008 at Emanuel Medical Center in his home town of Turlock, California. Ernie Gemperle was born on June 7, 1929 in Bischofsell, Switzerland and was one of twelve children. He graduated from the International Poultry School in Bern. Mr. Gemperle emigrated from Switzerland in 1949 with nothing more than his degree. Upon arriving to the United States, he was drafted into the Army, where he served at Fort Ord during the Korean War. In October 1955, he went back to Switzerland to marry his childhood sweetheart, Annemarie Dezlhofer. They returned to the U.S., settled in Turlock, California and began an egg business, Gemperle Enterprises. Together, Mr. and Mrs. Gemperle raised seven children and developed a successful business. Gemperle Enterprises has been an industry leader as egg production moved from small, scattered henhouses to the concentrated, automated operations of today. The business was one of the first egg farms to use bulk, rather than sacked, feeds. Mr. Gemperle upgraded the packing system in other areas of the operation with the goal of providing quality eggs at a lower price. The eggs were marketed under the Nulaid label. He soon joined with other egg producers to create NuWest Milling, which built a feed and grain terminal near Hughson, California and the NuCal Foods distribution cooperative in Ripon, California. Mr. Gemperle was a pioneer for the egg industry, including organic and other specialty eggs. He was willing to purchase the newest equipment with the latest technology to insure the safety of the hens and provide the lowest prices for the consumers. Today, the family business has grown to include over one million hens on several farms. Mr. Gemperle and his family have tirelessly supported numerous causes, including their church, healthcare, higher education and the arts. The Greater Yosemite Council of Boy Scouts was his number one cause. Mr. Gemperle served as Council President for two terms from 1990-1991. He received the Silver Beaver for his service to Scouting in 1991. He also served as the head of the council's Investment Committee from its inception in 2006. He has also served on the Executive Board of the Council from the early seventies until his recent passing. His son, Michael, serves as the Scouting Nominating Committee Chair and as the Executive Vice President of the Council. Michael is slated to become President in 2010. Since 1971, the Gemperle Family Bar-B-Que has raised money for Scouting each year. The event is held at the family home and the food is served by family members. It is estimated that over $500,000 has been raised from this BBQ. Mr. Gemperle was considered a leader in his local community. He served as Rotary President and a Rotarian for forty years. He has been a driving force behind many of the City Council's initiatives, including the building of the Rogers Service Center in 1999-2000. He served on the boards for both Emanuel Hospital and Doctors Hospital in Modesto. He was past chairman of Catholic Charities of the Stockton Diocese and was instrumental in the construction of Sacred Heart Church and the California State University, Stanislaus Newman Center. Recognition of his service is great; including Agri-businessman of the Year (1980 Turlock Chamber), Paul Harris (1985 Rotary), Liberty Bell (1990 County Bar), University Medal (1991 CSUS) and Good Samaritan (1999 EMC) just to name a few. Mr. Gemperle's leadership and generosity has been passed down to his children who now run Gemperle Enterprises. All of his children are active in the community and serve on the boards or committees for various organizations and causes that Mr. Gemperle supported. He was a strong supporter and advocate of California State University, Stanislaus, United Samaritan's of Turlock, Emanuel Hospital of Turlock, Sacred Heart Church and the Boy Scouts of America. The family was honored at the ``Distinguished Citizen's Dinner'' by the Council in 2005 for their continuous work and dedication to the community. Annemarie Gemperle preceded her husband in death in 1999. Mr. Gemperle is survived by his second wife, Maria Gemperle; sons Peter, Richard, Stephen and Michael all of Turlock; daughters Heidi Gemperle of Seattle, Anita Mahaffey of San Diego and Susan Abdo of Boise; two step-daughters Brigit Johnson and Barbara Masterson; twenty-one grandchildren; three step-grandchildren; brother, Walter Gemperle of Turlock and six siblings in Switzerland. Madam Speaker, I rise today to posthumously honor Ernie Gemperle for his leadership and dedication to his community. I invite my colleagues to join me in honoring his life and wishing the best for his family.

Mr. RADANOVICH

Mr. RADANOVICH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to posthumously honor Michael Musser. Mr. Musser passed away on November 3, 2008. Michael Musser was born and raised in Fresno, California. He graduated from Fresno High School in 1968. Just four years later he was married to Anna. They lived a happy life together. They have two children; Jason and Julie. His children and five grandchildren still live in the Fresno area. Mr. Musser was an avid golfer. However, if there was a family event, his family would always come first. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Michael Musser. I invite my colleagues to join me in honoring his life and wishing the best for his family.