Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Mrs. Eileen Grace Martinho for her service to my office and the 21st Congressional District of California.

Mrs. Martinho was born on December 12, 1994 in Escondido, California. Her father, Jacob De Raadt, purchased a Dairy Farm in 1999 in Lemoore, California and moved the family to California's San Joaquin Valley. Growing up in an agriculturally-rich environment left a lasting impact on Eileen, creating a deep passion for dairy and agriculture issues. After graduating from Central Valley Christian High School in 2013, Eileen received a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Fresno Pacific University in 2017. While completing her degree, she was employed with Kings County Farm Bureau and Farm Academy Live, where she assisted in the implementation of events and taught agricultural issues to numerous students.

Eileen became a member of my Congressional Team in 2017, serving as our Fresno County Field Representative. She proved to be a strong asset across the Valley, creating meaningful connections with community leaders and representing my team with dedication and charisma. Local leaders consistently praised Eileen for her love for the Central Valley and advanced knowledge on agricultural issues. Eileen also managed the office intern program and served as a caseworker, helping numerous constituents with government-related issues. Her unique ability to communicate the values of our team combined with her strong work-ethic made Mrs. Martinho an invaluable member of my team and a true public servant to the people of California's Central Valley.

Outside of work, Eileen remains actively involved in a variety of community groups. She is a member of the Dairy Princess Committee, Kings Fair Foundation Board, California Women for Agriculture, and Kings County Dairy Women. Her consistent participation in community service groups reflects her genuine care for the community and desire to see it improved. While many speak about bettering their communities, Eileen takes the initiative and leads the way. She is a strong leader who will continue to advocate for her community for many years to come.

Mrs. Martinho recently married to the love of her life, Jonathon, earlier this year. She loves spending her free time with her husband and their friends, hosting dinners, and going on weekend trips. Her community is extremely important to her and she is known as a loyal and dependable friend. Eileen is also actively involved in her church, where she is known for her beautiful singing.

This January, Mrs. Martinho will be moving onto new ventures. Knowing Eileen, her passion and work-ethic, I have no doubt she will achieve many great things in her future.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in commending Eileen Grace Martinho for her public service to the people of the Central Valley and wishing her the very best in this next chapter of her life.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Mr. Justin Mendes for his service to my office and the 21st Congressional District of California over the past six years.

Mr. Mendes was born on September 17, 1986 in Fresno, California to Tom Mendes and Karen Carreiro. After attending Riverdale High School in Riverdale, California, Mr. Mendes went on to receive his Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from the University of the Pacific in Stockton, California. Upon his graduation in 2008, Mr. Mendes worked in the banking industry, specifically in agricultural lending.

In 2010, Mr. Mendes began his career in public service with my office in Hanford, while I was then serving in the California State Assembly. Upon my election to the United States House of Representatives in 2012, he continued his service as my District Director. After a brief stint in the private sector, Mr. Mendes rejoined my Congressional Team again as District Director. His knowledge of the Twenty First Congressional District of California was immensely beneficial to my office and my constituents.

In March of 2014 , Mr. Mendes and his wife Melissa celebrated the birth of their first child, Alexander. They welcomed their second child, Dominic, in April of 2017. Their family currently resides in Hanford, California.

Mr. Mendes demonstrated his dedication to public service when he was elected Mayor of Hanford in December of 2015 and again in 2018, when he ran for California State Assembly. His service on Hanford's City Council concludes at the end of this year.

I am confident his love of politics and public service have benefited his community and I have no doubt he will continue being a leader for Hanford and Kings County.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in commending Justin Mendes for his public service to the people of the Central Valley and wishing him well in this next chapter of his life.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman, my friend from California, for the opportunity to have this time.

Representing the Central Valley in Congress has been an honor of a lifetime. There are truly no words to express how grateful I am to my supporters, neighbors, and all those who make the Central Valley such an amazing place.

If you would have told me or my parents 10 years ago that I would be here standing on the House floor, none of us would have believed you.

I have so many people to thank. First off, most importantly, my wife, Terra, she has been an amazing supporter and, from the day I met her, she has always just found ways to make my life better and make me a better person.

My children--Conner, who is 16; Madeline, who is 12; and Lucas, who is 8--have weathered the storm and been a part of this life for the last 8 years, 2 years in the State Legislature and 6 years here, traveling back and forth, many times away from home, not able to attend soccer games. So it has been tough on them, and I think they are looking forward to things being a little bit better with me having the opportunity to be there for them more than I have had the opportunity in the past. I am grateful for that.

I am also grateful for my team, the staff in my office, back home in Hanford and Bakersfield, and especially here in Washington, D.C. I have had an amazing team around me that has helped me be successful here in Washington and at home, and I am very proud to have had them as part of my team.

Interns throughout the years, that is something that a lot of folks don't pay attention to, but those are all people who, even today, I still see them walking around the halls of Congress and sometimes around the valley, working in different industries and taking their careers to new levels and new heights. To know that I played a small role in their lives is something that I take a lot of pride in.

My fellow Members, the California delegation, others outside of the delegation, I have made a lot of friends here, people that I didn't know before, I had only seen on TV in the past and have now become good friends, trusted, good friends, and people that I trust with so much of my life today. I am so proud to have had that opportunity.

While I am sad to be leaving, we can take pride in knowing that we brought about real, tangible change. We have reduced taxes for the middle class, made huge strides in our battle for water, reformed the dairy industry for thousands of California farmers, improved access for healthcare to families throughout the valley, and given our troops the support they deserve.

I am proud of all the work that we have done. I wouldn't change a second of it. I just had a great opportunity.

So the Central Valley has always been and will always be my home, and I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to have served in this place, representing them.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today alongside my colleague, Devin Nunes, to recognize the life and service of Kevin Thomas Koelewyn, a teacher, mentor, and long-time advocate for agricultural education.

Mr. Kevin Koelewyn was born on March 26, 1966 in Hanford, California. The City of Hanford is located in California's San Joaquin Valley, one of the most agriculture-rich areas in the world. The area seemed to leave a lasting impression on Kevin, as he dedicated his life and career to this community and agricultural education.

An educator for nearly thirty years, Mr. Koelewyn was widely known for his role as an agriculture teacher with Tulare Joint Union High School District. His involvement spread far beyond the classroom. He was active in Future Farmers of America (FFA), coaching numerous students for FFA public speaking competitions. His expertise in coaching made him nationally known in the FFA community; and he was given the responsibility of overseeing their national public speaking competition as a result.

While his experience and accomplishments made him one of the most respected teachers in the area, it was his mentorship to students and fellow educators that set him apart. Countless former students have expressed the lasting impact Mr. Koelewyn's mentorship had on their lives. His ability to inspire students far beyond their perceived potential was often mentioned. Kevin extended that mentorship to young agricultural teachers, helping them get settled into new jobs and preparing them for success.

Mr. Koelewyn was also dedicated to community service and was a long- time youth baseball coach in his hometown of Hanford. Whether in the classroom, at FFA competitions, or attending sporting events, Kevin was passionate about inspiring the next generation to reach their full potential in life.

While he was passionate about his career and service, Kevin's greatest loves were God, family, and friends. He had a deep relationship with the Lord, which guided the entirety of his life. He loved and cherished his wife, children, parents, and the rest of his family. He was a dedicated friend who was there to help in challenging times.

Sadly, on Sunday, November 4, 2018, Kevin Koelewyn passed away. Although he left us far too soon, Kevin made a lasting, positive impact on the people he knew. Kevin is survived by his wife Maxine, their three children, Madlyn, Audra, and Kaleb, his parents Thomas and Sharon, and his sister Kristin. Kevin Koelewyn left his community a far richer place, and for that we are blessed. He was a loving husband, caring father, inspiring mentor, and dedicated educator. There is no doubt he will be deeply missed .

Mr. Speaker, today I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me and Mr. Nunes in honoring the life of Kevin Thomas Koelewyn. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends in this difficult time.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Omni Family Health, Inc. for forty years of service throughout California's Central Valley.

Omni Family Health, Inc. was established in 1978 as a health center in the town of Buttonwillow, an unincorporated farming community in California's San Joaquin Valley. Responding to a profound shortage of medical care in the area, community members founded Buttonwillow Health Center. Before long, Buttonwillow Health Center was invited to expand to neighboring towns and eventually became Omni Family Health.

The San Joaquin Valley is an extremely rural region with a large population of underserved communities. Due to high unemployment and large populations of migrant workers, medical care can be difficult for many to attain. Omni Family Health, Inc. directly responds to these needs, providing medical, dental, and behavioral health services to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay. They strive to break longstanding barriers in the region and meet the communities' needs head-on. They are a mission-oriented organization, demonstrating a strong commitment to underserved communities. Omni Family Health, Inc. also prioritizes the respect of staff and the hiring of compassionate people. That simple show of respect has led to decades-long careers at Omni.

From their humble beginnings, Omni Family Health, Inc. has rapidly become one of the largest networks of health centers in the San Joaquin Valley. By the end of this year, they will be operating thirty health centers in Kings, Kern, and Fresno Counties. Their 750 employees serve over 100,000 patients, while their facilities generate $123,000,000 in economic benefits. Their contributions have made them an invaluable and treasured member in the communities they serve.

Omni Family Health, Inc. has gained a national reputation for their exceptional care and compassion. In 2015, they were awarded two achievements by the National Association of Community Health Centers: The Outstanding Achievement Award and the Migrant Health Center of the Year Award, which they are extremely proud of. While Omni Family Health, Inc. serves a diverse population of patients, migrant workers will always be their passion. It was the small farming community of Buttonwillow. California, that birthed their mission, so being nationally recognized for their service to migrant workers was especially meaningful to them.

Omni Family Health, Inc. shows no signs of slowing down. As they continue to grow and meet the needs of the San Joaquin Valley, they remain committed to their two core ideals, providing healthcare for their community through compassionate service. The San Joaquin Valley will be forever thankful for the work they have done, and excited for the work they will still do.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in commending Omni Family Health, Inc. for forty years of service and wishing them further success in their future.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to someone I have gotten to know over the last few years pretty well.

Damon Nelson became an immediate friend, an ally, and a mentor. There are so many different words to describe what Damon was to a lot of us.

When I came in as a freshman, I still remember his help setting up offices, helping me interview potential staff, and giving me direction on every decision that we had to make. It was amazing to watch, as an incoming Member with brand-new staff, the way that he would take his time to mentor every single one of them from top to bottom.

Damon treated everyone as an equal. He treated people with respect and dignity. He truly loved this country, loved this institution, and loved the process of helping others be successful here. He never, ever looked down on another person. He had a sense of humor even until the very end. Every chance I could, I would get down into the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and just spend some time with him in the office talking and laughing about whatever topic was going on that day.

He is going to be truly missed by a lot of us. He was truly a great guy who really added a lot to this institution. He made my time here in Congress much, much better, and even helped set us up for as much success as we have had over the last 6 years, and it is all because of guys like Damon. I am grateful to have known him and grateful to have served with him. I really do wish his family the best.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Sanger Masonic Lodge for one-hundred and twenty-five years of service in their community.

Sanger Masonic Lodge was established soon after the founding of the City of Sanger in California. Supported by the expansion of the nation's railroad system, Sanger quickly transformed into a thriving community and attracted a wide variety of industries and individuals. As the city grew, so did the need for social functions. Many of Sanger's male citizens were members of Masonic lodges in other parts of country and quickly realized there were enough Masons in the city to consider forming their own lodge. Their charter was issued on October 11, 1893, officially authorizing the group to become Sanger Masonic Lodge, No. 316 under the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of California. While they met in various locations in the early years, Sanger Masonic Lodge found its permanent home in 1932 in the city's historic Downtown. They have remained a vital part of Sanger's success ever since.

Seventy-one active members strong, Sanger Masonic Lodge supports numerous community-service initiatives. They have donated tens of thousands of dollars to organizations including Sanger High School, the Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps, and various non-profits. Sanger Masonic Lodge also invests their time in homeless outreach efforts and provides yard services to senior citizens free of charge. Sanger Masonic Lodge has additionally demonstrated a commitment to our active- duty service members. They have cooked meals for units departing for combat zones and financially supported military Christmas parties.

Sanger Masonic Lodge is also known for their Child ID programs throughout the County of Fresno. These programs allow parents the opportunity to create a kit of identifying materials for their child, free of charge. The kit contains items including a fingerprint card, physical description, and DNA sample to provide critical information for law enforcement if a child goes missing. Fifteen years since their creation, Child ID programs have been used by over fifteen-thousand families.

After more than a century in existence, Sanger Masonic Lodge has become a foundational institution for the City of Sanger. Their passion for their community is demonstrated through the countless hours of service and fundraising they have freely given. While the city and nation have drastically changed since 1893, Sanger Masonic Lodge has remained a consistent endorser for the community.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in commending Sanger Masonic Lodge for one- hundred and twenty-five years of service and wishing them further success in their future.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Elders Mini Mart as it closes after ninety-eight years of operation in Caruthers, California.

Founded in 1910 by Lon and Bertha Elder, Elders Mini Mart was originally established as

a grocery store. The shop has seen multiple identity changes but has remained in the ownership of the Elder family throughout the decades. After operating as a grocery store, it transitioned into a bar. In the 1985, the Elders remodeled the bar into a barn, selling local produce and hosting dances in the community. Over time, the produce barn slowly transformed into Elders Mini Mart. It remained in operation until its closing on October 1, 2018.

Elders Mini Mart has been in the ownership of the Elder Family since its founding. Lon and Bertha Elder passed down management responsibilities to Fred and Laura Elder, who then gave ownership to Ray and Pat Elder. When Ray sadly passed away in 2011, Pat maintained ownership of the store.

Elders Mini Mart has become a fixture in the Caruthers community. It is widely known for being the choice of farmers for their morning coffee and children would often get free ice cream at the end of a school day. The Mart has a reputation for having the best deli in town. Aside from being a popular meeting place for farmers and students, Elder Mini Mart has also historically supported the local Central Valley agriculture industry through selling local produce. It never went to waste; unsold fruits and vegetables being fed to their livestock.

Located off the 41, Elders Mini Mart gets customers from around the state, country, and world. Travelers stop at the store for a quick break, and unexpectedly find a warm atmosphere with a friendly owner and delicious food. If anything defines Elders Mini Mart aside from its rich history, it would be their ability to make all customers feel like part of the community. Their customer service was unmatched.

Pat Elder has been the sole owner since her husband Ray passed away. While effectively managing the store for years, she has decided the time has come to retire. She is ready to transition into the next phase of her life and is excited to have the opportunity to travel. After decades of hard work and service to Caruthers, she deserves a restful retirement with many exciting adventures.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in commending Elders Mini Mart for ninety- eight years of operation and wishing Mrs. Pat Elder well in her retirement.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend Mr. David DeSilva on being inducted into the California Agricultural Teachers Association Hall of Fame.

David DeSilva was born and raised in California's Central Valley. His passion for teaching agriculture was developed from a young age. Growing up on a dairy farm, David's parents instilled in him a deep appreciation for agriculture. He worked alongside them on the farm and was heavily involved in the Future Farmers of America organization. After graduating from California Polytechnic University, San Luis Obispo, Mr. DeSilva began his career in education at Hanford High School.

After five-years at Hanford High School, Mr. DeSilva continued his career at College of the Sequoias in Visalia, California. He would remain in this position for thirty-years, retiring in 2014. Mr. DeSilva's tenure at College of the Sequoias was impressive and reflective of his dedication to agriculture and his students. As the agriculture division chair at the college, he was well respected by his peers and viewed as a leader on agriculture issues. Many of his former students have become agricultural teachers, industry leaders, and business owners.

Mr. DeSilva's impact extended far beyond the classroom. Locally, he created and implemented the California Crop Center at the World Ag Expo in Tulare, California. It is known as a hub of activity for a wide variety of the top crops grown in the state. He was also responsible for the development of College for Kids, a summer agriculture program for children. Mr. DeSilva's influence eventually led to international opportunities. He promoted agriculture at colleges in the Ukraine, Russia, and even Haiti.

Whether locally or internationally, Mr. DeSilva's goal remained the same: working with young students and increasing the community's knowledge about agriculture. Even in retirement, he remains actively involved with the Knights of Columbus organization and local Future Farmers of America chapters. Throughout Mr. DeSilva's childhood, nearly four-decade career, and into retirement, agriculture education has been a defining purpose for his life.

To be inducted into the California Agricultural Teachers Association Hall of Fame, an individual must be a retired agriculture educator with proven dedication for vocational agriculture, agriculture education, and the Future Farmers of America organization. Mr. DeSilva has consistently demonstrated his dedication to this field throughout his life and is unequivocally deserving of this honor.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in commending Mr. David DeSilva on his dedicated service to the Central Valley and on being inducted into the California Agricultural Teachers Association Hall of Fame.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend Mr. Pete Hanse on being honored

as the Lemoore Chamber of Commerce 2018 Agriculturalist of the Year.

Pete Hanse was born and raised in California's Central Valley, attending local schools and choosing to remain in the community as an adult. Establishing a successful family business, Hanse Farms Inc., Mr. Hanse has earned a well-known reputation for his dedication to protecting and preserving the agriculture industry in Kings County and the greater Central Valley region.

Mr. Hanse has further shown his service to the community by his involvement in the Kings County Farm Bureau. For forty-four consecutive years, which is an accomplishment in and of itself, he has volunteered on its Board of Directors. He has held every position on the Board, including serving as President from 1986 to 1988. His involvement continued with his participation in numerous California Farm Bureau state conventions, establishing relationships and gaining knowledge from organizations outside of Kings County.

Through his decades of experience, Mr. Hanse has become known for his superior knowledge on many topics in the agriculture industry. His peers look to him for direction on industry challenges and he is consistently willing to share his wisdom with others. Through his dedication and involvement in the community, Mr. Hanse has become known for his reliability, hard-working character, and leadership for the industry.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in commending Mr. Pete Hanse on his dedicated service to the Central Valley and on being honored as the Lemoore Chamber of Commerce 2018 Agriculturalist of the Year.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend Kings County Farm Bureau on being honored as the Lemoore Chamber of Commerce 2018 Agriculture Supporter of the Year.

Kings County Farm Bureau has become a foundational institution in California's Central Valley. Celebrating one-hundred years of operation, an incredible achievement in and of itself, Kings County Farm Bureau acts as the sole agriculture advocacy organization for Kings County, California.

Kings County Farm Bureau not only acts as an advocate, but also leads the way on numerous community service initiatives. Included is an emphasis on students and young adults in Kings County. One such initiative is their annual Farm Day, where they strive to educate students on agriculture-related topics and allow them to interact with industry professionals. Every third-grader in Kings County is given this opportunity at no cost to the schools. Additionally, Kings County Farm Bureau awards thousands of dollars in college scholarships to graduating high school seniors each year.

Kings County Farm Bureau exists as a direct reflection of their stated mission: ``To provide education, promotion and representation of agriculture.'' They educate the community, students, and adults alike, on the importance of agriculture for Kings County and the Central Valley as a whole. Through their initiatives, they directly inspire the next generation of agricultural leaders. They promote the industry by connecting the consumer to the farmer, providing a platform for both to communicate and learn from each other. Finally, they represent the agriculture industry through their policy advocacy on the local, state, and federal levels of government. Kings County Farm Bureau has consistently demonstrated their commitment to protect, preserve, and enhance agriculture throughout Kings County.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in commending Kings County Farm Bureau on their dedicated service to the Central Valley and on being honored as the Lemoore Chamber of Commerce 2018 Agriculture Supporter of the Year.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the retirement of Dr. Donald E. Cornforth, a Central Valley resident who provided outstanding medical care to his community for over twenty years.

Donald E. Cornforth was born in Media, Pennsylvania on November 2, 1942. In 1964, he completed his undergraduate degree at Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colorado. Four years later, upon graduating from Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Mr. Cornforth began a year-long internship at Fitzsimons General Hospital. Following this internship, Dr. Cornforth began his Radiology Residency at St. Joseph's Hospital in Colorado and became certified by the American Board of Radiology in 1975.

Dr. Donald Cornforth's drive and dedication to help those in need was further demonstrated when, during his final year in medical school, he made the selfless decision to enlist in the United States Army. After five years of Active Duty, two of which were spent as a Radiologist at Ireland Army Hospital in Fort Knox, Kentucky, Major Cornforth was honorably discharged.

Over the next fifteen years practicing radiology, Dr. Cornforth continuously proved himself to be a fundamental leader within the medical community. During this time, Dr. Cornforth developed innovated services within his field and even brought his knowledge and services to Saudi Arabia for a teaching sabbatical. Additionally, Dr. Cornforth performed groundbreaking procedures including Colorado's first percutaneous trans-renal kidney stone extraction and the world's first percutaneous trans-renal UPJ endopyeloplasty.

Then, in 1991, Dr. Cornforth brought his expertise to the Central Valley as the President of San Joaquin Imaging Medical Associates in Bakersfield, California. Dr. Cornforth upheld his commitment to provide vital medical services to those in need while leading various practices throughout the Kern County. His most notable practice, Quest Imaging Medical Associates, Inc. became a permanent fixture of the San Joaquin Community Hospital in 2010, expanding access to these critical services throughout the community.

Whether he was serving our country in the United States Army or serving those within our

community, Dr. Cornforth has always provided care with the highest standard of excellence. Dr. Cornforth's dedication to serving others extends far beyond practicing medicine. In 2012, he and his wife, Edna, donated one million dollars for the cancer center at San Joaquin Community Hospital, its lobby now named the Cornforth Family Pavilion. Dr. and Mrs. Cornforth's generosity to those in need is truly commendable and has made a lasting, positive impact on the Central Valley community.

Today, Dr. Cornforth retires from his practice in Delano, Donald E. Cornforth, M.D., Inc., and from his position as Chief Medical Officer at the San Joaquin Community Hospital, where he also served as the head of their nationally recognized Stroke Center for three years.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in thanking Dr. Cornforth for his service to his country, the medical community, and the Central Valley.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise alongside Representative Jim Costa and Representative Devin Nunes to recognize the life and public service of Fernando ``Fred'' C. Machado, a farmer, military veteran, and long-time advocate of California agriculture.

Mr. Fred Machado was born on March 4, 1932 and emigrated with his family from the Azores Islands of Portugal to the United States at the age of sixteen. Fred's parents, Joe F. and Margaret C. Machado, had seven children of which, Fred was the oldest. Growing up, Fred worked various farm jobs such as milking cows, driving trucks, picking cotton, and harvesting grapes.

At the age of nineteen, Fred joined the United States Navy and served aboard the USS Montague AKA 98 during the Korean Conflict. While in the military, he saved enough money to buy a car and a used tractor, and leased twenty-five acres. He realized his life-long ambition, to be a farmer, in 1956 when he bought his first forty acres. In 1957, he married his wife, Maxine Finney, and in 1970 expanded his personal farming operation to include a fifty-head Holstein dairy that grew over the years.

Mr. Machado joined the Fresno County Farm Bureau in 1957. In 1960, he attended an Easton Center meeting and became Vice Chairman. From there, Machado climbed the ranks, eventually serving as Fresno County Farm Bureau President from 1972 to 1974.

Mr. Machado was a major presence on agricultural boards and committees for decades throughout Fresno County and California. He served on the board of directors of the National Milk Producers Federation, Challenge Daily, Danish Creamery, and Ag One Foundation. Mr. Machado served three years on the Big Fresno Fair Board, appointed by President Ronald Reagan. In 1985, Frank Machado received Distinguished Service Awards from both the California Farm Bureau, as well as the Fresno County Farm Bureau.

Although dedicated to Central Valley agriculture, Fred Machado loved spending time with his family, especially his wife. Together, the couple have traveled to twenty-seven countries, and all fifty states. According to Fred, his most memorable trip was to South Korea where he was awarded the South Korea Veterans Peace Medal by the Ambassador of South Korea.

Sadly, on Monday, July 9, 2018, Fred Machado passed away. Although he left us too soon, Fred made a lasting, positive impact on the people he met. Fred is survived by his wife Maxine, their three children, and six grandchildren. Fred Machado left his community of Fresno County a far richer place, and for that we are blessed. He was a loving husband, caring father, agricultural champion, and military veteran. There is no doubt he will be deeply missed.

Mr. Speaker, today I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in honoring the life of Fernando ``Fred'' C. Machado. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to urge my colleagues in the House to support my legislation, H.R. 299, the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act.

More than 6 decades ago, the United States deployed troops to Vietnam to fight communism and protect our national security interests abroad. Over the course of 20 years, American troops fought side by side with Vietnamese forces. Tragically, more than 58,000 American soldiers lost their lives during the conflict.

However, in the aftermath of the war, the United States government linked chemicals in Agent Orange, a powerful herbicide used by U.S. forces, to many harmful medical conditions affecting those who served in or around Vietnam.

While the Federal Government has provided for those who have served on Vietnamese soil, those who have served in the territorial seas of the Republic of Vietnam lack the compensation and treatment they deserve.

Despite undeniable evidence that Agent Orange entered the South China Sea and contaminated shipboard systems and countless studies that clearly show the connection between Agent Orange and higher rates of serious disease among shipboard veterans, the Department of Veterans Affairs continues to deny claims from the blue water Navy Vietnam veterans.

The brave sailors who served in the Vietnam war were willing to pay the ultimate price for their country, and many did just that. Providing adequate medical care to those who survive when they return home is the least we can do to show our appreciation for their service.

My bill, H.R. 299, the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act, would restore the presumption of service connection to the blue water Navy veterans, ensuring they receive proper treatment for the health conditions

they acquired in their service to our Nation.

Since I was elected, I have fought to ensure our Nation's veterans have proper medical care, which is why I first introduced this legislation. However, passage of this bill today would not be possible without Mrs. Susie Belanger, who worked tirelessly to raise awareness of this issue; Chairman Phil Roe and the House Veterans' Affairs Committee staff for their unwavering support; and the dedication of thousands of Americans who called their representatives, urging they cosponsor this legislation.

Every day, thousands of brave veterans who served in the Vietnam war fight the health effects of Agent Orange exposure. Many are in pain and suffering. It is far past time we pass this critical legislation and give them the comfort and care they deserve.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mrs. Lilia Elizabeth Giacomazzi as the 2018 Distinguished Dairyperson by the June Dairy Month Committee of Kings County, California.

Mrs. Giacomazzi was born Lilia Elizabeth Curti on July 23, 1913 in Fresno, California to her parents Miro and Domenica Curti, immigrants from the small town of Albonico in the northern Italian Alps. The oldest of five siblings, Lilia graduated from Tulare Union High School in 1927.

On July 12, 1936 Lilia married Fred Giacomazzi and the newlyweds moved to a home on the Hanford-based Giacomazzi Dairy, Kings County's longest-continuously-operating dairy. Their initial home now houses the Giacomazzi Dairy offices.

In October 1937, Lilia and Fred had their first child, their son Donald and three years later, in March 1940, welcomed their daughter, Patricia. Mrs. Giacomazzi was actively involved in her children's education, serving as a room mother and president of the Hanford High School Parent-Teachers Association. Additionally, she helped many Kings County 4-H participants learn to cook, sew, and garden.

Her love of gardening led to her work establishing the LaCasa Garden Club and, eventually, LaCasa Park in Hanford, California. Her love and passion for gardening has remained a constant during her 105 years.

On July 12, 1998, Mrs. Giacomazzi lost her beloved husband of sixty- two years, Fred. However, she has found comfort from her seven grandchildren and to eight great-grandchildren to whom she is known as ``Nonna.''

Mrs. Giacomazzi also served as President of the Kings County Dairywomen and Western United Dairy Women of California. This year marks Mrs. Giacomazzi's fifty fith year of service to the Kings County Dairywomen. She has also been actively involved in the Sons of Italy Lodge, the Central Valley Hospital Auxiliary, the Kings County Republican Women Federated, the Kings County Historical Society, the American Theater Organ Society, the Kings Symphony Orchestra, and the Young Ladies Institute.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in commending Mrs. Lilia Elizabeth Giacomazzi on her lifetime of service to the Central Valley and on receiving the 2018 Distinguished Dairyperson Award.