[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 163 (Tuesday, November 15, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1472-E1473]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               HONORING LOUIS KEE MARKET OF FRESNO COUNTY

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                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, November 15, 2016

  Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Louie Kee Market in 
west Fresno, CA. After 93 years of serving the community, Louie Kee 
Market is closing its doors. For many people, Louie Kee Market is not 
solely a market, but a friendly place that felt like home for its loyal 
patrons. The commitment, service, and friendliness that this market has 
given to people of the Central Valley will be missed.
  Louie Kee Market, located on 1041 Tulare Street, was founded by Kee 
and Effie Louie in April of 1923. The market has been operated by four 
generations of the Louie family. In 1967, Kee and Effie's son, Sherman 
Louie, took over day to day operations. With the help of three of his 
children, the Louie family has been able to keep the store running 
strong. Because of passionate family members and enthusiastic 
customers, Louie Kee Market has become one of the longest-running 
family-operated grocery stores in the city of Fresno. Although the 
store was small, with only five aisles and a long meat counter, it has 
a big place in the hearts of Fresno residents. The market and its staff 
have always been friendly, welcoming and helpful in an effort to foster 
a personal relationship with the community.
  The market is a staple in the lives of many local residents. The 
Louie Kee Market was known for giving students in the neighboring high 
school their first job. This opportunity allowed them to get a strong 
sense of work ethic and fostered their future as it gave them quality 
experience at a young age. The Louie Kee Market also had an incredible 
impact on their employees as they strove to make them feel like family. 
The Louie's made it a habit to invite their employees for family 
dinners. In 1982, the Louie's took all of the employees on a trip to 
Disneyland. This was more than just a small business; Louie Kee Market 
truly fostered community development and knew how to treat its 
employees.
  Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect that I ask my colleagues in the 
U.S. House of Representatives to join me in honoring Louie Kee Market 
for 93 years of business. This Fresno landmark will be missed by many 
in the community. Louie Kee Market has made phenomenal strides to 
contribute to Fresno County. They have had a positive influence on our 
community and deserve to be commended for their efforts.

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