[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 84 (Wednesday, May 15, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E507]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF CORTEZ GROWERS ASSOCIATION

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOHN S. DUARTE

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 15, 2024

  Mr. DUARTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a significant 
milestone in the agricultural community of Ballico, California--the 
centennial anniversary of the Cortez Growers Association. Established 
on April 18, 1924, by four visionary Japanese immigrants, the Cortez 
Growers Association began as a small cooperative endeavor to market 
fruits and vegetables effectively despite language barriers. The 
founders employed a bilingual agent, ensuring their enterprise's early 
success and sustainability.
  The association thrived, even through the Great Depression, expanding 
its membership and operational capacity. By 1932, twenty-six additional 
members had joined, and Cortez Growers Association appointed its first 
full-time manager. However, the outbreak of World War II and the 
subsequent internment of Japanese Americans dealt a severe blow to the 
association. All members, being of Japanese descent, were either 
interned or enlisted in the military, many serving in the highly 
decorated 442nd Regimental Combat Team.
  Despite these adversities, the Cortez Growers Association's land was 
preserved through trust and leased to neighboring farmers, allowing the 
association to regain its footing post-war. The resilience and 
determination of the members during these trying times are a testament 
to their commitment to their community and country.
  In the ensuing decades, the Cortez Growers Association has continued 
to adapt and thrive. Transitioning from a diverse crop base to focusing 
solely on almond production, the association has stayed at the 
forefront of agricultural innovation and efficiency. Today, the Cortez 
Growers Association is a leader in the almond industry and a pillar in 
agricultural advocacy, helping to found the Almond Alliance.
  As we commemorate a century of enduring legacy, the Cortez Growers 
Association is a beacon of community resilience, adaptability, and 
success. The values of faith, family, and dedication to future 
generations are as alive today as they were a hundred years ago.
  With great pride, I recognize the Cortez Growers Association for its 
century of service to the agricultural community and the nation. I want 
to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Cortez Growers 
Association for 100 years of service and offer my sincerest wishes for 
their future.

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