[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 5 (Friday, January 18, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E39]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF LEADERSHIP MODESTO

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                            HON. JEFF DENHAM

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, January 18, 2013

  Mr. DENHAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and honor 
Leadership Modesto as they celebrate 30 years of leadership education 
in the Central Valley.
  Leadership Modesto was established in 1981 by founding Members Dave 
Kilby, Jeff Cowan, John Sutton, Connie Bird, Ed Boyle, Stan Hodges, 
Mike Zagaris and Virginia Bruch. The program was formed through the 
Modesto Chamber of Commerce to identify new potential Modesto leaders 
and to provide a ten-month program that will develop knowledge and 
understanding of the community--its complexities and its potential. The 
program also provides an opportunity for participants to meet and 
exchange ideas with each other and current community leaders, and to 
motivate and encourage participants to assume leadership roles in 
community affairs.
  Leadership Modesto has turned out graduates such as Former Mayor 
James Ridenour, current Mayor Garrad Marsh, current Vice Mayor 
Stephanie Burnside, Modesto City Council Members Joe Muratore and Dave 
Cogdill Jr., and Sheriff Adam Christianson to name a few. Some of the 
community efforts and accomplishments--established Bette Belle Smith 
Day, upgraded playground equipment at JFK Elementary School, clothing 
drive for Professional Dress, and raised money for Camp Taylor.
  The program also provides an opportunity for its members to connect, 
discuss and exchange ideas with each other and current community 
leaders, and to motivate and build strong minded leaders to assume 
leadership roles in our community.
  Leadership Modesto is building our future and celebrating our past. 
Leadership Modesto is men and women with a sincere commitment, 
motivation and interest in serving the community. During the ten month 
program, members expand their understanding of Modesto and Stanislaus 
County through exposure to community issues many may not otherwise have 
the opportunity to explore at the same time enhancing leadership and 
management skills, and develop close relationships and mutual concerns 
with other class members.
  Even during a down economy, the Leadership Modesto program continues 
to inspire public and private sector interest and participation. One of 
the key successes to the longevity of the Modesto program is the 
program leadership infrastructure--led by a committed group of Steering 
Committee members. Each Steering Committee member has a direct 
connection with one of the day topic planning teams. This direct 
connection enables the program to move quickly, to mobilize and respond 
to challenges and changes.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring Leadership Modesto for 30 
years of delivered premier leadership training for Modesto. More than 
500 graduates pepper business and industry, elected offices, as well as 
non-profit volunteer boards and organizations. It's our community's 
succession plan.

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