Mike Thompson

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Pamela Kindig on the occasion of her retirement as Auditor-Controller of Napa County. Pam has served her community honorably and the voters rewarded her by re-electing her five times to her post. Mrs. Kindig began her career in public service as Auditor-Controller when she was elected in June of 1986. Six terms and 22 years later, she is retiring as one of the preeminent public figures in the Napa Valley. She has been a leader amongst her peers, serving as President, 1st Vice President, 2nd Vice President and Bay Area Chair of the California State Association of County Auditors. Mrs. Kindig is known around Napa County as a superlative mentor to family and friends; a lover of reading, fine dining, golf, and above all, her grandchildren. By all accounts, Mrs. Kindig is the epitome of what a public servant should be: a tireless worker, a pillar of integrity, and someone with the utmost respect for the people she serves. For the past 22 years Mrs. Kindig has given back to the community by serving on the boards of Napa-Solano United Way, Napa Emergency Women's Services, First Napa Federal Credit Union and Soroptimist International. She also hosts a monthly book review program on a local radio station, is a member of the Napa Valley Symphony and a founding member of the Covenant Presbyterian Church. Madam Speaker, it is appropriate at this time that we thank Pamela Kindig for her years of dedication on behalf of the people of Napa Valley. She has been a model citizen and leader in Napa County and her presence there has enriched the lives of everyone in the community. I join her husband Russ, daughters Kimberly and Kirstin and three grandchildren in thanking her for her service and wishing her a lifetime of fulfillment.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Chairman, the green stimulus provisions in this bill will generate tens of thousands of jobs and result in billions of dollars in economic investment. Solar tax provisions that I authored will allow State and local governments, like Sonoma County in my district, to help homeowners and businesses more easily finance the purchase of solar. We are also making other critical investments in solar by creating a grant program to incentivize businesses to invest in renewable technology today, instead of waiting until the economy improves. An additional $4 billion in bonds for use in renewable energy projects will be available for State and local governments as well. These are just a few of the green stimulus provisions. Not only will this bill create green jobs that our economy needs today, but it will also enhance the long-term security and sustainability of our economy by investing in a smart-energy future that helps free us from our dependency on foreign oil. I encourage everyone to vote ``aye'' on this bill.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a treasure of American cultural life and music, Marilyn Horne who is celebrating her 75th birthday. Ms. Horne has had a long and distinguished career that has spanned the globe and endeared her to music-lovers everywhere. Ms. Horne has always demonstrated a passion for music, first performing publicly at the age of 2. After studying voice and song/ recital works at the University of Southern California, she has gone on to perform in more than 1300 recitals, made over 100 recordings and received three Grammy Awards including the Lifetime Achievement Award in 1989. She has lent her mezzo-soprano voice to some of the most challenging roles in music and has been a fixture in the world of classical music for the last four decades. She has also shown a commitment to sharing her passion with the next generation of vocalists through her work as a visiting professor at some of the Nation's great music programs and as director of the Voice Program at the Music Academy of the West in Santa Barbara, a program she has led since 1997. When Ms. Horne became concerned about the diminishing recital opportunities for promising young vocalists, she founded the Marilyn Horne Foundation in 1993 to ensure that young singers would continue to have the opportunity to excel and to preserve vocal recital as a treasured and living art form in the United States. Since its inception, the Foundation has reached over 55,551 children via 649 school programs, supported 262 recitals of promising young vocalists in 26 States, and helped to share the gifts of these young people with millions of others by promoting radio broadcasts of these recitals. Many of the foundation's alumni can now be seen performing on some of opera's most famous stages, including Carnegie Hall, The Met and the New York City Opera. The honors that Ms. Horne has received in her lifetime are too numerous to list here. But, most prominent among them are the National Medal of the Arts in 1992, being named a Kennedy Center Honoree in 1995, and being inducted into the American Classical Music Hall of Fame. She has also attracted international acclaim and her worldwide honors include the Commander of the Order of Arts and Letters from France's Ministry of Culture, Commendatore al Merito della Repubblica Italiana, and the Fidelio Gold Medal from the International Association of Opera Directors. She was also the inaugural winner of Italy's Rossini Medaglia d'Oro, which was created especially to recognize her contribution to reviving many of Rossini's greatest operas. Madam Speaker, it is appropriate at this time that we honor Marilyn Horne for her lifetime of achievements, her passion for music, and her dedication to future generations of vocalists. We wish her the best of luck in her continuing work, and I am so honored to call her my friend.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Dave Bengston upon the occasion of his retirement after 37 years of outstanding service to the people of Mendocino County. During his tenure as Agricultural Commissioner and Sealer of Weights and Measures, Mr. Bengston's distinguished career includes many milestones. He was instrumental in the eradication of the Ribes mite, which was not previously known to occur in North America. Mr. Bengston wrote a new quarantine for Grape Leaf Skeletonizer to protect the wine grape industry and succeeded in keeping the pest out of the county. He instituted an annual countywide pesticide container recycling event. And he coordinated a hazardous materials collections process. Dave Bengston, born in Modesto, in the heart of California's fertile Central Valley, was drawn at an early age toward agricultural pursuits. His first jobs as a teenager were picking peaches and working in canneries. While attending Modesto Junior College he developed a ``love for botany.'' From there he attended Stanislaus State before transferring to the University of California at Berkeley. In addition to his more than fulltime work schedule, Mr. Bengston developed a passion for mycology. In 1972 he already had a license in Apiary Inspection when he got a job with Mendocino County as a weights and measures inspector. A benefit to his move to Mendocino was the myriad variety of wild mushrooms, for which he has become an expert in identification. He met his wife Christy, who was the 4-H secretary for the University of California Extension Service, in 1974. They were married 2 years later and have two grown sons, Brett and Logan. Since 1989, when he became Mendocino County's Agricultural Commissioner and Sealer of Weights and Measures, Mr. Bengston has been instrumental in the success of keeping Mendocino free of such invasive pests as the Mediterranean fruit fly, vine mealybugs, and the Gypsy moth. He also made contributions to the glassey-winged sharpshooter, national organic, and West Nile virus programs and was instrumental in enforcing the ordinance banning genetically modified organisms in Mendocino County. As is true of extraordinary public servants like Mr. Bengston, he also gave back to his community. He was a member of the Ukiah Kiwanis Club, a board member of the Mendocino County Promotional Alliance and director and education chair of the Peregrine Audubon Society, to name a few. Bengston also found time to be a charter member of the Dorothy King Young Chapter of the California Native Plant Society. He coached youth soccer and basketball and played men's league soccer and was a soccer referee until 1993. He also has served as an advisor to the Ukiah Association of the Handicapped and the Regional Occupational Horticultural Program. Madam Speaker, through his visionary leadership, technical expertise and quiet persuasion, Dave Bengston has made a long-lasting positive impact on the resources of the county of Mendocino. For these reasons and for the widespread respect of his colleagues and community, it is appropriate at this time that we honor Dave Bengston.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of this bill because investing in children's health care is one of the wisest choices we can make. Children have to be healthy to get an education and to achieve their full potential as adults. When kids see the doctor more regularly, they receive the preventive services that keep them healthier longer, and they are less likely to end up in the emergency room, which saves everyone money. Almost a quarter of a million children in my State of California are uninsured. That's simply not acceptable. In contrast to President Bush's multiple vetoes of similar bills, today, with President-elect Obama's enthusiastic support, the House will vote to provide coverage for 4 million, 4 million additional children. Madam Speaker, that truly is change we can believe in.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Supervisor Ed Robey on the occasion of his retirement from the Lake County Board of Supervisors. Supervisor Robey has served the citizens of Lake County honorably for 28 years, the last 12 as a County Supervisor. Supervisor Robey has had an illustrious career in public service. Since he was first elected to the Clearlake City Council in 1980, Supervisor Robey has consistently gone the extra mile for his constituents. The list of boards and commissions he has served on during is career is overwhelming. It includes LAFCO, the Area Planning Council, the Regional Council of Rural Counties, the California State Association of Counties, the Committee working with the Yolo County Flood Control District in regard to Clear Lake water rights issues, the Proposition 10/First Five Commission, the PEG Board of Directors, North Coast Emergency Medical Services, the Lake County Community Action Agency Board of Directors, the Area Agency on Aging Board of Directors, the North Coast Opportunities Board of Directors, the Caltrans DEAL Committee, and the County Reclassification Committee, among many others. Supervisor Robey will be remembered for his great sense of humor and superior accessibility to his constituents. His legislative and community accomplishments are much too numerous to be noted here; however, the true test of any elected official is if his constituents are better off when he retires than when he first took office. This is unquestionably the case for Supervisor Robey. The citizens of Lake County owe him a great debt. Madam Speaker and colleagues, it is appropriate at this time that we thank Supervisor Ed Robey for his years of dedication and service on behalf of Lake County and beyond. He has been a model of dignified and effective public service. I join his wife Beth, his son and two stepchildren in thanking Ed and wishing him a lifetime of fulfillment.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Dustin Pedroia, who is being honored as the American League's Most Valuable Player for 2008, the first second baseman to receive this award since 1959. From a young age, Mr. Pedroia has shown a passion for baseball. Although, at 5'9", he has never been the largest player on the field, he has shown time and again that he more than makes up for it by playing with his whole heart. After graduating from Woodland High School in 2001 he was recruited by Arizona State University to play for the Sun Devils. While at ASU he quickly made an impression on his teammates as well as his coaches and went on to be named a 3-time first-team all-Pac-10 selection, the 2003 Pac-10 co-player of the year and the 2003 National defensive player of the year. He never missed a game at ASU, all while batting an impressive .384. Mr. Pedroia debuted in the major leagues in August of 2006 with the Boston Red Sox, becoming the first member of Boston's 2004 draft class to reach the majors. In 2007 he recorded one of the finest rookie seasons ever for a Red Sox player, breaking a 93-year-old major league record for the highest batting average by a rookie second baseman and also winning the Jackie Robinson Award for American League rookie of the year. He was also able to cap off this impressive start with a World Series ring by helping the Red Sox achieve a 4-0 sweep over the Colorado Rockies to win the championship. This year, Mr. Pedroia has surpassed his performance last season by leading the American League in hits, runs, and doubles while also batting in 83 runs and hitting 17 home runs in his own right. He has now become the third player in the history of Major League Baseball to win the rookie of the year award and the most valuable player award in consecutive seasons, as well as winning the golden glove award for best fielding performance at second base. Madam Speaker, it is appropriate at this time that we honor this fine athlete. His record of accomplishments is a testament to his talent, perseverance and character, as well as an indication of a promising career that is just beginning. I join the entire community in congratulating him for these achievements and wishing him and his family all the best in years to come.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Napa Valley Hospice and Adult Day Services on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of their Adult Day Services program. The Adult Day Services program has done visionary work serving the unique needs of the elderly, younger adults with mental and physical impairments, and those suffering from Alzheimer's and other dementias. In 1979, Hospice of Napa Valley opened as a program of St. Helena Hospital. They became an independent non-profit in 1997, and opened their acclaimed Adult Day Services program in 1998. ADS is the only program of its kind in Napa County and is one of 54 official Alzheimer's Day Care Resource Centers in California. Since its inception 10 years ago, the Adult Day Services program has served more than 1,000 people. Last year alone, they served 80 people with Alzheimer's or other dementia, gave family training to 129 people, provided 165 hours of support groups, 200 hours of counseling for 143 people, 30 hours of community education for 327 people, and 166 consultations for 133 people. These incredible achievements would not be possible without their dedicated staff, led by Executive Director Catherine Poliak and ADS Program Coordinator Celine Regalia. Catherine and Celine lead a team that is second to none in their creativity and enthusiasm. Madam Speaker, it is appropriate at this time that we thank everyone at Napa Valley Hospice and Adult Day Services for the remarkable work they have done for our community. Through their hard work and generous contributions this program has thrived for the past 10 years, and I know that we will see much more progress in the years to come.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today along with my colleague, Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey, to honor and acknowledge Linda Rawls, who has been named the 2008 Sonoma Treasure Artist of the Year, or simply the Sonoma Treasure, by the city of Sonoma. Each year the city's Cultural and Fine Arts Commission selects one of the hundreds of artists living and working in the Sonoma Valley to receive this honor. Ms. Rawls was singled out for her decade's long work in costume design. By one account, she has fitted and costumed the stars and extras of more than 132 productions, including those of the Sonoma City Opera, the Sonoma Ballet Conservatory, school plays at Sonoma Valley High and each of the grade schools, Vintage House Senior Center, churches and Hootchie Doo Productions, a community theatre group. Her talents have led her to create designs for productions in neighboring counties, including 42nd Street Moon productions in San Francisco. According to Ms. Rawls, ``Costumes have to do everything. A show can have no scenery, but with a woman's dress or a man's hat, you can decipher the time and place in an instant.'' She calls costumes the ``elemental scenery of a play, telling more about character and context than anything else on stage.'' Ms. Rawls stumbled into her artistic calling 26 years ago when the costume designer for a school opera in which her 8-year-old son was performing unexpectedly quit. She volunteered to step in and has been following her passion ever since. Her peers have acknowledged Ms. Rawls work by awarding her the Best First Day Costume Award from the International Gilbert and Sullivan Festival in Buxton, England, in 1996 and the Dean Goodman Choice Award for Outstanding Achievement in Theatre for Costume Design in 2003. Madam Speaker, Linda Rawls is a true artist in every sense of the word and it is appropriate that we honor her today as the 2008 Sonoma Treasure Artist of the Year.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today along with my colleague, Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey, to honor Chief Vernon A. Losh II, who is retiring this month as chief/department director of the Sonoma County Department of Emergency Services. He has held the position since June, 1999, and also served concurrently for over 5 years as fire chief of Rancho Adobe Fire Protection District. Chief Losh has had a long and distinguished career in fire and emergency services, starting in 1974 with the South Placer Fire Protection District where he eventually held every rank from volunteer firefighter to full-time battalion chief. He came to Sonoma County in 1995 as deputy chief/fire marshal for the Department of Emergency Services and became Chief a few years later with responsibility for all aspects of the Department's work. He deftly managed 23 full time employees, over 350 volunteers, and a budget of $7.5 million. With extensive education in emergency management, including being one of the first 12 people certified in the State of California as a fire chief, Chief Losh has shared his expertise for years as a community college fire service instructor and also as chair of the Santa Rosa Community College Fire Tech Advisory Committee. A long list of professional affiliations--from local to international--is a testament to both his spirit of community volunteerism and the high regard with which he is held by his peers. He has been president of the Sonoma County Fire Chiefs Association, Sonoma County Department Heads Association, and the Northern California Firefighters Association, to name a few. Shortly after the anthrax and 9-11 terrorist attacks on our country, we met with Vern Losh and other Sonoma County officials. We were particularly impressed by the level of emergency preparedness as well as by plans to continuously upgrade and improve equipment and procedures. These efforts, directed by a coordinated leadership effort, clearly paid off when much of the County was affected by severe flooding a few years ago. The response was swift and organized, mitigating what could have been a serious disaster. The Losh family is also a source of pride to Vern. His wife Teresa is an accountant at the Sonoma County Office of Education and marathon walker for several charitable causes; his son Allen is a Specialist in the Army serving as a combat medic ready to be deployed to Iraq on Thanksgiving Day; his daughter Whitney is a student at San Francisco State in the Public Health field. Whitney just finished her first marathon for the Leukemia Lymphoma Society. Perhaps since, as his biography states, he ``currently serves as the Grand Emperor of the Cosmic Order of Fire Gods, an honor he has held since birth,'' Vern Losh won't fully retire. He plans to continue as Chair of the Sonoma-Mendocino Red Cross, Chair of the Volunteer Fire Fighter Committee of the California State Fire Fighters Association, and as the California representative to the National Volunteer Fire Council. He will also become a volunteer firefighter for the City of Healdsburg. And he will continue his teaching at the California Community College. Madam Speaker, Sonoma County will miss the skills of Chief Vernon Losh, but we thank him for helping to make our emergency services strong. We know he will appreciate having time for his family and his hobbies--photography, football and all sports, attending Giants and 49er games . . . and firefighting.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Mendocino Study Club for outstanding and distinguished service to citizens of the village and north coast of Mendocino, California, on the occasion of its centennial anniversary. Since its founding by seven women on October 30, 1908, when Mendocino was still recovering from the California earthquake and fires of 1906, the Mendocino Study Club has been an intelligent and considerate force adapting to and addressing the issues of the times. The original members traveled by horse and buggy for the first decade in order to get together on the isolated and rugged Mendocino Coast. In the early years Study Club members met to discuss reading assignments and international cultural and historical topics. It wasn't two years before they were also a contributing force to worthy causes. For many years the MSC was in charge of the local American Red Cross Drive. Active during the First World War, they gave to war related causes, and during the Depression focused on local needs. Health and dental care, education and safety became the stalwart causes for which the MSC has been particularly philanthropic. In 1943, the MSC began its scholarship program with $100 to study nursing. Since then, members have granted more than $178,400 to high school graduates, as well as to recipients for reentry and job upgrade pursuits, and to economic enterprises. Their Country Christmas bazaar of handcrafted items supports the club programs including scholarships, and humanitarian and civic projects. The Mendocino Community Library is the longest running legacy, initiated by the Study Club in 1947 and incorporated in 1979. In 1988 the Mendocino Community Library moved into its own building which continues to be staffed and supported by the MSC. Throughout the decades the MSC has been active in improving the quality of life for local residents through their support of such vital entities as the Mendocino Coast District Hospital, Mendocino Historical Research, Inc., Sherwood Oaks nursing home, Meals on Wheels, Hospitality House, a new firehouse, soup kitchens, the Senior Lunch Program and the Food Bank, to name a few. In addition to financial and volunteer support MSC has advocated on issues on behalf of school lunches to Congress, for highway safety to the state of California, and rural community libraries to the County of Mendocino. Their 2008 centennial activities have included heritage rose plantings, a centennial quilt, and, in honor of the history of the unique village of Mendocino, the creation of walking tour brochures as a birthday gift to community. Madam Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honoring the Mendocino Study Club for 100 years of good deeds on the Mendocino coast. This exemplary organization lives up to its purpose to promote the highest spiritual, intellectual and cultural opportunities for its members, to provide for leadership of women in the community, and to provide service to the community. It is with pleasure that I have the honor to commend the good work and future of the Mendocino Study Club.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor Judy Thein and Team DUI of Lake County for their incredible service to the community. Team DUI is doing visionary work to address underage drinking through prevention. Team DUI was born out of tragedy. After her daughter's death in a drunk driving accident, Clearlake Vice Mayor Judy Thein has turned the heartbreak of her loss into a positive effort that is already making a difference in the community. Team DUI brings together a coalition of law enforcement, county officials, social service providers and local educators to teach teens about the dangers of underage drinking and driving under the influence. Team DUI's program is designed to help people understand the consequences of the decisions they make. They provide educational forums throughout the county, encouraging prevention through teamwork, community prevention and problem solving. By their actions, they have demonstrated their willingness to go to great lengths to spread their message. Team DUI has received numerous well-deserved honors for their work. In 2008 alone, they have received Mothers Against Drunk Driving's Advocate Recognition award and the Best Idea of the Year Award from Stars of Lake County, among many others. Madam Speaker, it is appropriate at this time that we thank Judy Thein and everyone at Team DUI for the remarkable work they have done for our community. This program has been remarkably successful in a short period of time, and I know that we will see much more progress in the years to come.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Chief Howard Strickler on the occasion of his retirement from the Kelseyville Fire Protection District of Lake County, California after 32 years of service, 28 of them as Fire Chief. Chief Strickler's leadership will be truly missed by his colleagues and the people of Lake County. Chief Strickler is a native son, graduating from Kelseyville High School in 1967. His career in public service began in the U.S. Army, where he served from 1970-1973. After his discharge, he worked with the White House Communications Agency before coming home and joining the Fire Protection District. Chief Strickler has lived in Kelseyville for 47 years and has done more than perhaps anyone else over that time to keep Lake County residents safe. During his tenure he was instrumental in the implementation of the county's first paramedic program as well the first countywide Hazardous Materials Response Team. He also helped develop a 911 First Responder Agreement that is now used by all fire departments, EMS and law enforcement agencies in the county. Chief Strickler has earned the undying admiration of all who have worked for him and with him. To a person, they describe Chief Strickler as the consummate leader, someone who instills confidence in everyone around him and whose compassion and love for the community shines through. He is a family man whose quiet sense of humor and listening skills always made his employees feel comfortable and at home. He will be missed a great deal. Madam Speaker, it is my distinct pleasure to recognize Chief Howard Strickler for his many years of service to Kelseyville and all of Lake County, California, and to thank him for his many contributions on behalf of our country and his community. I join his wife, Debbie, his two children, and five grandchildren in wishing him the best as he enters this new phase of his life.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Brian Kelly, a true pillar of the Napa Valley community. Mr. Kelly is being honored by the Napa Valley Education Foundation for his many contributions to education in our community. Mr. Kelly is a longtime Napa resident whose life's work has been giving back to his community, especially working to advance educational opportunities for young people. He is a past treasurer and board member of the Napa Valley Education Foundation and the priority he places on education is shown on his own resume. Mr. Kelly has a BS in management from CSU Hayward, an MBA in finance from UC Berkeley, and is a graduate of the Wine Executive Program from UC Davis as well as the Advanced Management Program at the Haas School of Business. It would be difficult to find someone more involved in his community than Brian Kelly. Whatever the community or charitable function in the Napa Valley, Mr. Kelly and his trademark bow tie are ever-present. He serves or has served on the boards of Aldea Children & Family Services, Napa County LAFCO, Napa Chamber of Commerce, Napa Valley Conference & Visitors Bureau, Napa Valley Vintners Community Health Center, Community Foundation of the Napa Valley, Hospice of Napa Valley, Napa City-County Library, Queen of the Valley Hospital, and countless others. He is also a successful businessman who is president, CEO, and founder of Charter Oak Bank in Napa. Madam Speaker and colleagues, it is my distinct pleasure to thank Brian Kelly for his many years of service and congratulate him on this well-deserved recognition. He has been a model citizen and leader in Napa County and his presence has enriched the lives of everyone in our community. I join his wife Maggie and his daughters Kathleen, Megan and Jennifer in wishing him continued success and fulfillment.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today along with my colleague, Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey, to recognize Steve Olson, who has recently retired as Dean of Occupational Education and Economic Development at Santa Rosa Junior College (SRJC). Dean Olson began his career as a Plant Science Instructor at SRJC in 1970 and was named Department Chair in 1974. Thirteen years later, he was selected as Dean of Instruction, Educational Programs and Services. In this role he administered a variety of programs for the college including the Agriculture Department, the college's Shone Farm, international education, as well as Community Outreach and Development. During his tenure at SRJC, he helped establish the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department and the college farm. He also expanded course offerings to more than 50 sites throughout Sonoma County, created a study abroad program for SRJC students, and developed an educational telecommunications program at the college. Throughout his career, Dean Olson has been an active participant in many professional associations, serving as Vice President of the California Agricultural Teachers Association (CATA), President of the North Coast CATA, founding Chairman of the State Advisory Committee on Vocational Agricultural Education, a member of the California Joint Policy Council on Higher Education in Agriculture, President of the California Agricultural Leadership Associates, and co-chair of the Northern California Advocates for Global Education. His involvement in his community has also extended to numerous non-profit organizations including the Sonoma County Farm Bureau, the Sonoma County 4-H Foundation, Chair of the Rotary Club of Santa Rosa Foundation, and Director of the Sonoma County Harvest Fair among others. Over the years, Dean Olson has been recognized for his many accomplishments with such honors as the Friend of 4-H Award, the Rotarian of the Year Award for Northern California, the Friend of Sonoma County Agriculture Award, and the Harold D. Bostock Lifetime of Service Rotary Award. Madam Speaker, Dean Olson has had a long and distinguished career where he has been a model for his community and his profession. He plans to spend his retirement years with his wife, Elaine, and their six grandchildren pursuing their many hobbies. It is appropriate at this time that we honor Dean Olson for his many accomplishments and wish him well in his retirement.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize State Assemblywoman Patty Berg, an extraordinary citizen of Humboldt County, who is being honored for her years of dedicated public service to the people of California. Over the past 3 decades, Assemblywoman Berg has been a tireless advocate for families and children and for older adults. She was the founding Executive Director of the Area 1 Agency on Aging, which serves Humboldt and Del Norte Counties. Under her passionate direction the agency was recognized nationwide for its model comprehensive system providing services to California's seniors. She has also become an indispensable resource on aging issues within the State Assembly. The citizens of California's 1st Assembly District recognized Patty Berg's dedication to preparing California for its current and future challenges by electing her three times to represent them in the California Legislature. During her tenure, Patty has chaired the Committee on Aging and Long-Term Care, the Joint Committee on Fisheries and Aquaculture, and the Budget Subcommittee on Health and Human Services. She has served on many committees with jurisdiction over important public policy areas, including health, insurance, agriculture, and the environment. Patty's exceptional ``people'' skills were evident in bringing together progressive and conservative colleagues to help improve the lives of North Coast residents. She is passionate, committed to public service, hard-working, and extremely skilled. As a champion for the rights of families, youth, and older adults, Assemblywoman Berg has touched many lives. Her K-12 comprehensive family life education curriculum was the fIrst in California and was distributed throughout the country. She increased funding for computers and technology in our local schools. As chair of the Legislative Women's Caucus she emphasized the need for flexible workplace policies to allow working families to care for their loved ones. Due to her relentless efforts, Trinity County's only hospital was saved, and a vital county medical services program was preserved. Assemblywoman Berg is being honored for her contribution to one of our Nation's most precious rights--participation in the political process. She is being recognized for her contribution by the Humboldt County Democratic Central Committee as ``Democrat of the Year, 2008.'' Madam Speaker, it is appropriate at this time that we recognize Assemblywoman Patty Berg for her unwavering commitment to public service and to the ideals and values that sustain our great Nation.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize James Van Cott on the occasion of his retirement after 30 years as a California State Parks Peace Officer. James's leadership will be truly missed by his co-workers, the people of northern California, and the numerous State, Federal and local government agencies that relied on his immense knowledge of issues relating to our State parks. Mr. Van Cott's long and distinguished career in public service has stretched through 4 decades and 5 State parks: Doheny State Beach, Lake Perris State Recreation Area, Mount Tamalpais State Park, Samuel P. Taylor State Park, and Bothe-Napa Valley State Park. Over the course of his career, Mr. Van Cott has always sought to improve his skills and training and pass that knowledge onto others. During his 8 years at Lake Perris, he was certified by the Department of Boating and Waterways as an Advanced Boating Officer and an Advanced Boating Accident Investigator. He provided over 12,000 hours of law enforcement training for lifeguards and field rangers. As a Defensive Tactics Instructor, James provided over 10,000 hours of instruction and training for field rangers in the Los Lagos, Marin, and Diablo Vista Districts. Mr. Van Cott has been a valuable ambassador for the Parks Department, working with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Cal-Fire, Marin Municipal Water District, Marin County Wild Animal Care, the California Highway Patrol and many other State and local agencies during his tenure. He has reached out to the community as well. While at Mt. TamaIpais, he organized, managed and directed the ``Friends of California State Parks,'' the fifth largest volunteer program in the State. Madam Speaker, it is my distinct pleasure to recognize James Van Cott for his many years of service to the State of California, and to thank him for his many contributions on behalf of our State and his community. I join his wife, Carol, and his son Josh in wishing him the best as he enters this new phase of his life.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today along with my colleague, Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey, to recognize and honor the Nelson Family of Companies, which has been selected as the Business of the Year by the Sonoma Valley Chamber of Commerce. The Nelson Family of Companies is an independently owned group of businesses that provide a wide variety of full-time and contract staffing services as well as software and support services designed to facilitate workforce management. The first of the ``Nelson Companies'' opened in 1970 in San Rafael. In 1989 a corporate office was established in Sonoma. The companies currently employ more than 300 people in 25 offices throughout northern California. In addition to being a major employer itself in Sonoma and providing support services to other local businesses, the Nelson family has been an active participant in community organizations and events. Primary beneficiaries have been the Hanna Boys Center and Sonoma Valley Hospital. The companies have also been sponsors or supporters of the Sonoma Jazz Festival, the Charles Schwab Cup Champion's Tour event at Sonoma Golf Club, the Sonoma Wine Harvest Auction and Festival, the American Red Cross, the American Heart Association annual walk, the Blood Bank of the Redwoods annual blood drive, the Valley of the Moon Boys & Girls Club and the Valley of the Moon Teen Center and the Sonoma Valley Mentoring Alliance. Madam Speaker, local businesses in the small communities throughout our two Congressional districts are much more than employers. They are the backbone of a support system for projects, nonprofit organizations and civic events that would not be successful without their involvement. No organization better exemplifies this commitment than the Nelson Family of Companies. It is therefore, appropriate for us to honor Chairman Gary D. Nelson and his leadership team and employees, both past and present, for their great work throughout the years.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today along with my colleague, Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey, to honor and acknowledge the Sonoma County Medical Association, SCMA. The SCMA will celebrate its 150th anniversary on November 11, 2008. Recently discovered documents place the first call to organize the forerunner to the SCMA on Apri1 10, 1858, with the creation of a constitution and by-laws. The group went through at least 2 subsequent reorganizations, the latter being in 1888, which had long been considered by medical historians to be the original founding date of the organization. From 1888 to 1910 the Sonoma County Medical Society, as it was then called, held monthly meetings around such topics as ``The Emotions in Their Relationship to Disease'' and ``Bubonic Plague: Keeping it Out of Sonoma County.'' In 1906, the association elected its first woman president, Dr. Anabel Stuart. During both World Wars, 29 percent of the medical society's membership served our country in uniform. Since 1951, the SCMA has had only 5 full-time administrators or executive directors. Josephine Quayle served as ``general helper'' until her retirement in 1963. She was succeeded by Norman Brown, who served from 1960 to 1982. Roger Brown served from 1983 to 1989, followed by Torn Wagner from 1989 to 2000 and Cynthia Melody from 2000 to the present. Over the years, the SCMA has made numerous contributions to the health of Sonoma County. In 1962, the SCMA coordinated a ``Knock Out Polio'' campaign that resulted in 92.3 percent of the county's population being immunized. From the mid-1970s to the late 1990s, the SCMA created several other affiliated companies that helped increase medical services to county residents, including the Specialty Physicians Association and the Children's Health Network. And, in 2000, the SCMA returned to its roots as a selfsustaining; non-profit county medical association supporting physicians and their efforts to enhance the health of the community. Madam Speaker, the SMCA has a long history of assisting physicians practicing in Sonoma County and of preserving the well being of county residents. It is appropriate that we honor this distinguished organization and its members for their past accomplishments and wish them well as they continue to work on behalf of the physicians and residents of Sonoma County.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today along with my colleague, Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey, to recognize and honor Tim Smith, who is retiring after serving for 20 years on the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors. Upon his retirement, Supervisor Smith will have earned the distinction of being the longest continuously serving supervisor in the county's history. Supervisor Smith began his service to our country as a Navy radioman in Vietnam. When he returned from Vietnam, he attended Sonoma State University, where he graduated with a B.A. in Political Science in 1976. Shortly thereafter, he joined the staff of State Assemblyman Doug Bosco and continued as his district director when the Assemblyman was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. Supervisor Smith was elected to the Board in 1988. As Supervisor, he provided constituent services to 95,000 people in the Third District. The Board also sets the policy direction for the $700 million annual budget and 3,500 county employees, works extensively with the legislative delegation on legislative and regulatory issues and serves on many regional and local agencies, commissions and boards. Just a few of these agencies, commissions and boards include the Sonoma County Agricultural Preservation and Open Space District, the National Association of Counties, the California Association of Counties, the Association of Bay Area Governments, the Sonoma County Community Development Commission and the Bay Area Air Quality Management District. In his spare time, he has been a volunteer, advocate or fundraiser for many non-profit organizations, including the Volunteer Center, United Way, Day of Caring, the Hate Free Community Project, the Valley of the Moon Children's Home, the Heart Association and the Sonoma County Climate Protection Campaign. Supervisor Smith intends to spend his well earned leisure time traveling with his wife, Suzanne, enjoying his hobbies of golf and fly fishing, and spending more time with his 3 children and 5 grandchildren. Madam Speaker, Supervisor Smith leaves a distinguished record of public service and a lasting reputation as a problem solver who always had the best interests of the people of Sonoma County in mind as he worked on their behalf. We will miss our partnership with him but know he will continue to be a strong advocate for his community. It is appropriate that we honor and acknowledge him today for his lifetime of public service.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank Mr. Lewis and Mr. Ramstad for their work on this very important bill, a bill that I am proud to be the coauthor of, and I rise today in strong support of this bill. The provisions of this bill will play a vital role in allowing charitable organizations to better serve our communities. In fact, the two largest organizations representing charities, Independent Sector and the Council on Foundations, have both endorsed this critical legislation because it allows charities to better fulfill their valuable mission. To help explain the practical impact of this bill, I would like to share the story of the Doyle Trust which benefits thousands of hardworking families. Doyle Trust was founded 59 years ago to serve the students of Santa Rosa Junior College in Sonoma County, California. On Frank Doyle's death, he established the Doyle Trust which he funded with his 51 percent share in the Exchange Bank. Doyle created his trust so that dividends for his bank stock would go to a scholarship fund to help students attending this junior college. Last year alone, more than $5 million in scholarships for 5,500 Santa Rosa Junior College students was donated by the Doyle Trust. It is not unusual to find three generations of the same family who have benefited from the Doyle Trust scholarships. The Doyle Trust is an institution in Sonoma County, and its contribution to the community makes a real difference in the lives of working families. Without this legislation, the mission of the Doyle Trust may be undermined because provisions of the Pension Protection Act could force the trust to sell its assets. The unintended consequence of the Pension Protection Act would be to end Doyle Trust's ability to continue providing scholarships to thousands of students at Santa Rosa Junior College. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to help us pass this bill to ensure that future generations of Sonoma County families can benefit from the generosity of the Doyle Trust.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, in my district, over 30 wineries and countless homes and businesses have already gone solar, and more are looking to do the same every day. We need to build on this momentum by extending the solar investment tax credit. Solar business owners in my district are feeling the effects of not having this extension. Commercial and large residential sales of solar technology have ground to a halt because of the uncertainty over the solar investment tax credit extension. One local business owner told me that several wineries and small businesses have stopped plans to install solar technology because of this delay. Expanding solar is, first and foremost, about promoting renewable energy and fighting global climate change. But this bill has a critical economic impact as well. 110,000 green jobs, new green jobs, will be created in the solar industry with this bill. The multiplier effect of economic growth by this bill will create an additional 330,000 jobs throughout our country in sectors outside of the solar industry. California alone will get over 200 of those jobs. In these troubled economic times, we need to do all that we can to add jobs and move towards energy independence. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this vital bill which will move us one step closer to a strong, green economy. And don't forget it's paid for as well.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today with my colleagues, Congressman Dan Lungren and Congresswoman Doris Matsui, to recognize the Sacramento County Farm Bureau on the occasion of its selection as the first recipient of the 2008 Outstanding Achievement in Farm Health & Safety Recognition Award by the Western Center for Agricultural Health and Safety at the University of California, Davis. The award is given in recognition of an individual, group, organization, association or business that consistently strives to reduce agricultural workplace injuries and improve overall health on the farm. The Sacramento County Farm Bureau (SCFB) was established in 1917 to support the Sacramento County farming community. SCFB is also a member of the California Farm Bureau Federation, a non-profit organization of farmers and ranchers with over 90,000 members throughout California. The Sacramento County farmers and ranchers supported by the SCFB produce approximately 75 different crops with a total annual crop value of over $325 million. On September 19, the Western Center for Agricultural Health and Safety at UC Davis honored the SCFB and its leaders, President Ken Oneto and Executive Director Charlotte Mitchell, for its advancement of new agricultural health and safety practices and their development of model farm safety programs. The SCFB exemplifies exceptional involvement in promoting practices not only on the farm, but within communities through health fairs reaching farm workers, their families, and children. Annually, the SCFB hosts a major safety seminar attended by approximately 200 farm workers and 20 employers and supervisors. To ensure a broad audience, all of the classes are offered in Spanish and English. The presenters are experts in their fields and come from a variety of private and public organizations. While the specific topics change each year, presenters always include representatives from the California Highway Patrol, local Fire Departments, County Health Department, CalOSHA, Blood Source, AmeriCorps, UC Davis and State Fund. The Sacramento County Farm Bureau's leadership in bringing agricultural employees together with safety officers and other agricultural safety representatives not only reduces workplace injuries, but improves family health and their communities overall. In the last several years, the SCFB has also expanded its activities to include a well attended Health Fair for families. This major undertaking has enabled many families to receive free medical testing and basic health training that they might otherwise not receive. Additionally, the SCFB sponsors two important programs for the agricultural community: the Young Farmers and Ranchers Program and the Foundation for Agricultural Education. The Young Farmers and Ranchers Program consists of a committee of the Farm Bureau members that organize young people between the ages of 18 and 35 who support the agricultural community. Established in July 2000, the Foundation for Agricultural Education's primary purpose is to provide scholastic financial awards to high school and college students continuing their education at the university level. Madam Speaker and colleagues, please join me in acknowledging and congratulating the Sacramento County Farm Bureau and its leadership for its ongoing service to its members, California's farm workers, their families, and Sacramento's agricultural communities.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Warren and Barbara Winiarski. The Winiarskis are being honored by Napa County as the 2008 Grandparents of the Year. Mr. and Mrs. Winiarski met at St. John's College in Annapolis, Maryland. The Winiarskis along with their three children, Kasia, Julia and Stephen, moved to Napa County in 1964. They settled into the Stags Leap region, purchasing 44 acres in which they planted Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. They named the vineyard Stag's Leap, now known as S.L.V. The Winiarskis started their vineyard with modest means, but were soon propelled into the spotlight when their wine essentially changed the way California wines were perceived. In 1976 at the famous blind tasting in Paris, the second vintage produced by Stag's Leap Vineyard beat world renowned Chateau Mouton-Rothschild and Chateau Haut-Brion., They were visionaries in supporting the 1968 decision by the Napa County Board of Supervisors to approve Agricultural Preserve Zoning. The decision prohibits the splitting of lots on the valley floor that are less than 20 acres in size. The Winiarskis also championed Measure J in the 1990s, which prevents the development of agricultural lands without voter approval. Stag's Leap Vineyard was also the first vineyard placed under a conservation easement, leading the way in environmental protection. Throughout their time in the Napa Valley, the Winiarskis have contributed greatly to the community. They always keep the futures of their five grandchildren in mind, whether preserving the land or creating fine wine. Madam Speaker and colleagues, the Winiarskis have earned the respect of their colleagues and community. Through visionary leadership they created pathways for others in the community to follow. For these reasons and for the lasting impact that Stag's Leap Vineyard has had, it is fitting at this time that we honor the Winiarskis.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Major General Frank Humpert, who is being honored by the Napa Valley College Foundation for his years of service to the students and citizens of Napa County and beyond. Frank is a native of Napa whose life's work has been advancing educational opportunities for young people in the community. He is a graduate of Napa High School, Napa Valley College, the University of California, Berkeley, Troy State University and the Air Force War College. He served for 37 years in the United States Air Force, retiring with the rank of Major General. Frank's contributions to Napa Valley College (NVC) have been particularly extraordinary. He served on the NVC Foundation Board of Directors for 20 years, retiring in 2007. During his 20 years on the board, Frank was instrumental in growing the endowed scholarship fund from $387,000 to over $2.6 million, helping thousands of students further their education and realize their dreams. He also established the Humpert Family Scholarship Fund, which he contributes to regularly. Frank is also well known throughout the Napa Valley for his love of football. He played for UC Berkeley in the 1950 Rose Bowl. To this day, he is a constant presence on the Napa High School sidelines and has provided his wisdom, wit and guidance to nearly three generations of Napa High athletes. Madam Speaker and colleagues, it is my distinct pleasure to recognize Frank Humpert for his many years of service. He has been a model citizen and leader in Napa County and his presence has enriched the lives of everyone in our community. I join his wife Analee, three children, nine grandchildren and four great grandchildren in wishing him continued success and fulfillment.