[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 67 (Tuesday, May 6, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E691]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                RECOGNIZING THE SERVICE OF TOM RICHARDS

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                          Tuesday, May 6, 2014

  Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Tom Richards for 
his years of service as Board Chair of the Fresno Regional Workforce 
Investment Board, FRWIB. Tom's commitment and dedication to ensuring 
the success of FRWIB must be commended.
  Over the past four years, Tom has worked tirelessly to carry out 
FRWIB's mission to be a catalyst for mobilizing and integrating public 
and private partners to effectively educate and train individuals with 
the necessary skills to fulfill employer needs. As Board Chair, Tom 
strives to increase the number of job opportunities available to 
unemployed and underemployed residents in the region. He plays an 
integral role in advancing vocational education opportunities directly 
related to job placement. Businesses and individuals throughout the 
community have benefited immensely from Tom's business insight and 
civic interests.
  Tom's leadership expands beyond FRWIB. He is a leader for our entire 
community, and he strives every day to ensure the success of our city, 
state, and nation. He is the past chair of the Planning Council that 
developed the 10 Year Plan to End Chronic Homelessness in the City of 
Fresno. Tom was also instrumental in the planning and funding of 
Terry's House, a hospitality home for families who have loved ones who 
are in the hospital. Tom has overseen dozens of successful projects, 
and he has proven to be an effective leader. He is an individual of 
outstanding character, and I am proud to have him as a friend for more 
than 30 years.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Tom 
Richards for his service as Board Chair of the Fresno Regional 
Workforce Investment Board. Tom's vision, passion, and persistence have 
led to improvements in the region's economy. As Tom steps down as Board 
Chair, we can still expect him to be an advocate for businesses and 
residents throughout the San Joaquin Valley.

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