[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 72 (Thursday, April 23, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E360]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      RECOGNIZING MR. JIM MOREHEAD

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                         HON. DAVID G. VALADAO

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 23, 2026

  Mr. VALADAO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 2026 Tulare 
Kiwanis Farmer of the Year, Mr. Jim Morehead. A lifelong resident of 
the Central Valley and respected local leader, Jim has dedicated 
decades of service to his community, leaving a lasting impact on 
generations to come.
  After Jim's family moved from Texas to Pixley, California, following 
World War II, they established a multi-generational farming operation 
that continues today. Jim went on to earn a bachelor's degree in 
agricultural business from Fresno State University and used his 
education to reinvest in his family's farm. Over the years, he 
cultivated a wide variety of crops alongside his father, including 
cotton, corn, wheat, and alfalfa, before transitioning to almond 
production with his son in the late 1990s.
  Beyond his work in the field, Jim has been a steadfast advocate for 
California. He has served in numerous leadership roles with 
organizations such as the Central Valley Almond Association, Pixley Tri 
City Growers Cotton Cooperative, California Cotton Alliance, and Pixley 
Irrigation District, helping advance policies and practices that 
support farmers across the region.
  Jim's commitment to service extends well beyond the agricultural 
sector. He served 20 years on the Pixley Unified School District Board, 
fostering student achievement and community growth. For the past 25 
years, he has been an active member of the Pixley Foundation, 
supporting vital resources like the local food pantry and library. In 
addition, Jim has been a faithful leader at the Pixley United Brethren 
Church, where he has served on the board for 45 years.
  Jim exemplifies the values of hard work, service, and leadership that 
define the Central Valley. His contributions to Pixley, Tulare County, 
and the greater agricultural community will be felt for years to come.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to 
join me in recognizing Mr. Jim Morehead as the 2026 Tulare Kiwanis 
Farmer of the Year and in thanking him for his outstanding service to 
the Central Valley.

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