[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 168 (Friday, November 4, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2007]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  CELEBRATING THE DEDICATION OF THE WEST HILLS COLLEGE LEMOORE GOLDEN 
                              EAGLE ARENA

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                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, November 4, 2011

  Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize West Hills College 
Lemoore on the occasion of the Dedication Ceremony of the Golden Eagle 
Arena, its new, state-of-the-art facility which will provide a venue 
for the expanding educational and athletic programs. The new 52,000 
square-foot arena will provide a home to the Golden Eagles basketball 
and volleyball teams, while also facilitating class space for enhanced 
physical education.
  Golden Eagle Arena represents the third phase of growth for West 
Hills College Lemoore. The college has grown substantially since 
opening its doors in 2002. With the construction of the new arena 
approved by the Lemoore City Council in 2006, tireless work has been 
put in to developing a center that can host a variety of athletic and 
academic events. The state-of-the-art lighting, sound and technological 
equipment found within this facility provide an ideal venue for a 
variety of performances. The versatile flooring ensures that the 
hardwood basketball court will remain in pristine condition and promote 
longevity for this grand investment. This 2,700 seat stadium will 
enrich student life and enhance the Golden Eagle spirit. Even though 
nascent, the Golden Eagle Arena has already been home to various high 
profile, national, public servant guest speakers.
  West Hills College Lemoore has done nothing short of a job well done. 
After more than eighteen months of construction, the Golden Eagle Arena 
is complete. The perseverance of the Lemoore campus faculty, 
administration, students and community support has prevailed with this 
crown jewel in these tough economic times. In particular, I would like 
to commend the dedication of President Don Warkentin, Chancellor Frank 
Gornick, and the Board of Trustees: Mark McKean, Bill Henry, Nina 
Oxborrow, Steve Cantu, Edna Ivans, Jeff Levinson and Jack Minnite. 
Without the unwavering commitment of these individuals, projects and 
facilities like the Golden Eagle Arena would not be possible.
  Mr. Speaker, I have been a proud supporter of the West Hills 
Community College District since my days in the California State 
Legislature. It is beautiful to see how this rural, community college 
meets its goal to serve its students with a diverse set of programs and 
curricula, while providing entertainment and enrichment venues such as 
the Golden Eagle Arena. I ask my colleagues to join me in commending 
West Hills College Lemoore and the community of Lemoore who have worked 
tirelessly to make the Golden Eagle Arena possible.

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