Weekly Newsletter 12.02.2019
Dear Friend,
We're back in Washington after the Thanksgiving Holiday, where I'm working on legislation to promote international food aid programs and create jobs. Here are some highlights from the last two weeks:
Fighting world hunger
We have introduced a resolution to mark the anniversary of the Food for Peace program, which has helped millions around the world with critical nutrition assistance. In the last three farm bills, I have fought to include millions of dollars in funding for Food for Peace because it is one of the most important ways for the United States to help those in need around the world.
Supporting community improvements
The Calwa Recreation and Park District is making way for a new community Aquatic Center at Calwa Park. I attended the groundbreaking ceremony and spoke to many residents who are excited about the new facility, which will support an active and healthy community. I've been actively involved in the broader effort to revitalize Calwa, including renovating their post office. Supervisor Quintero has also provided important leadership to make improvements in the area.
Creating American jobs
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The House passed H.R. 565 - the Advancing Mutual Interests and Growing our Success (AMIGOS) Act, of which I'm an original cosponsor. This bipartisan bill will not only help create more American jobs and increase investment across the country, it will also further strengthen the bonds between United States and Portugal – one of our oldest allies. Now it's up to the Senate to do their part and send it to the President.
Valley lands big dollars
One of my highest priorities is to see that your taxpayer dollars come back to the district. The Department of Transportation recently granted $4.3 million dollars to the Yosemite Area Regional Transit System (YARTS) and $2 million to Merced County to revamp their bus fleet and infrastructure. UC Merced also received $250,000 from the Department of Agriculture to support 25 higher ed scholars from underrepresented groups.
Recognizing rising stars in our Valley
Had a great time meeting and talking with 12 year-old swimmer James Savage of Los Banos. James has set records swimming the entire length of the San Luis Reservoir, in addition to swimming from San Francisico to Alcatraz Island and back! Great work, young man!
Other work on behalf of our Valley:
- Cosponsored a resolution to support the Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis (TB), malaria, and other diseases, which the House passed.
- Supported the Recovering America's Wildlife Act of 2019 in the Natural Resources Committee to increase funds for fish and wildlife conservation.
- Cosponsored and voted for a resolution to confront threats posed by Russia by expressing disapproval of including the Russian Federation in future Group of Seven summits, which the House passed.
- Cosponsored a resolution to strenghthen transatlantic cooperation and reaffirm support for the Good Friday Agreement, which passed the House.
Upcoming Events Across the District:
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Christmas Tree Lane Fresno’s Christmas Tree Lane is a tradition going back 97 years. Each December, North Van Ness Boulevard in Fig Garden becomes a one-way street lined with hundreds of trees and homes all decked-out for the holidays. Visitors can drive the 2-mile stretch from Shields to Shaw all the way until Christmas Day (Click for more info). When: Tuesday, December 3rd - Wednesday, December 25th Where: Shields Ave and N. Van Ness Fresno, CA |
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Merced Christmas Parade This annual event is organized by the Active 20-30 Club, and is sponsored by the Merced Irrigation District. The parade will start at 3pm, but many fun events will take place beforehand. The parade is also followed by the annual Bob Hart Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony (Click for More info). When: Saturday December 7, 2019 11AM-7PM Where: 510 W Main St, Merced, California 95340 |
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For this annual event, the entire Zoo is transformed into a magical winter wonderland, fully decorated and strung with miles of holiday lights. Enjoy live entertainment, festive treats and beverages for adults and children as well as free photos with Santa Claus (Click for more Info). When: December 6th – 8th 5PM - 8PM Where: Fresno Chaffee Zoo |
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90th Annual Downtown Fresno Christmas Parade Marking its 90th year of celebrating the city/s culture and bringing the community together for anticipated holiday festivities. The theme this year commemorates the 9 generations of traditions that takes place every year in Fresno (Click for more info).
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Festival of Trees Twenty one holiday themed trees will be on display for for you to enjoy for two weeks. Enjoy Christmas music, carolers and hot chocolate along with other evening surprises. This year the space will be shared with Art Groove Gallery where you can check out the creative works from local artists around the Valley. (Click here for more info) When: 10:00 AM, Friday, November 29 – December 13 Where: The Shops at River Park, Fresno, California 93720, Fresno |
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UC Merced’s Fall Commencement Ceremony Join us in celebrating this year's graduates as they move on from their college careers into professional ones. When: Sunday, December 15, 2019 Where: Joseph E. Gallo Recreation and Wellness Center |
Current Legislation:
Recent News Coverage:
- Thousands in Fresno Could lose food stamps under new Trump Administration rule
- Ballot Boxing (RADIO)
- Sunday Morning Matters (VIDEO)
Jim Costa
Member of Congress
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