[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 57 (Friday, March 26, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E317]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  REMEMBERING ROBERT ``BOBBY'' BIANCO

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. RAUL RUIZ

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, March 26, 2021

  Mr. RUIZ. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of my 
constituent, Robert ``Bobby'' Bianco--a remarkable community member and 
innovative grower who made history in the Coachella Valley.
  Mr. Bianco arrived in our Valley in 1965. He co-owned and operated 
Anthony Vineyards with his brother and drove economic growth and 
employed thousands of Valley residents over the past 50 years.
  Mr. Bianco was a leader in the grape industry and was nationally 
known and recognized for his innovation. In fact, he was the first in 
the nation to commercially grow the red flame seedless grape in 1975, 
which rapidly grew to become one of the most popular table grapes 
produced in the world. This historic achievement drew people from near 
and far to visit our Valley and learn from his techniques.
  Mr. Bianco's impact on the community extended beyond his ingenuity in 
the field. Along with his beloved wife, Harlene, he was involved in 
local organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club, Big Brother Little 
Sisters of the Desert, and Desert Arc. Mr. Bianco also was involved in 
the formation of the Palm Valley School and the expansion of churches 
in our Valley, such as Our Lady of Perpetual Help, St. Francis Parish, 
Our Lady of Solidad, Our Lady of Guadalupe, and Sacred Heart.
  A friend and colleague of my father's, I knew Mr. Bianco to be a kind 
and hardworking man who strived to instill positive change in our 
communities. He was a local leader, nationally renowned grape grower, 
philanthropist, and lover of golf whose impact on our community will be 
felt for years to come.
  Mr. Bianco is survived by his son, Anthony Bianco, and daughter, 
Francesca Gist, and his six grandchildren.
  Today, we celebrate his life and record his story in our nation's 
history.

                          ____________________