[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 132 (Monday, September 28, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1841]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   TRIBUTE TO THE HONORABLE VIC FAZIO

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                         HON. ROBERT T. MATSUI

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 24, 1998

  Mr. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise before my colleagues 
today in support of this legislation that will help pay tribute to one 
of the most esteemed Members in this House. Contained in this 
legislation is a provision that will rename the Yolo Basin Wetlands in 
Yolo, CA in honor of Congressman Vic Fazio.
  Congressman Fazio recognized the potential value of this area as a 
wetlands habitat long ago and has since played a significant role in 
turning what was once a dream into reality. The Wetlands represents the 
largest public/private restoration project in the West at more than 
3,600 acres. The Yolo Basin Wetlands occupies a central location on the 
Pacific flyway and will benefit migratory and resident ducks, geese, 
swans, shorebirds, raptors and songbirds.
  For more than a decade, Vic has worked tirelessly to guarantee the 
design and construction of the wetlands area. He has been involved 
every step of the way, making certain the project meets Army Corps of 
Engineers construction criteria and has remained the key figure in 
securing the federal funds needed for the Corps to build the project.
  The gentleman from California is the first to recognize that the Yolo 
Basin Wetlands project truly is a cooperative venture--combining the 
efforts of local, State and Federal agencies as well as elected 
officials and private sector entities. In all, Vic Fazio has become the 
centerpiece of more than 20 individual and agency partners involved in 
completing this effort.
  Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the conferees for their support of 
this provision and particularly appreciate the efforts of Chairman 
McDade to ensure that this language was included in the bill. As we say 
goodbye to one of the most beloved and well-respected Members of this 
governing body, I think it is important to remember the acts of 
dedication and generosity that define his career. I can think of no 
better way to recognize the more than 20 years of faithful public 
service my good friend from California has given to his community and 
his country than by renaming this beautiful wildlife area in his honor.

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