[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 151 (2005), Part 5]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 5956]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]


                   HONORING NAPA VALLEY GRAPEGROWERS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE THOMPSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, April 8, 2005

  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition 
of the Napa Valley Grapegrowers organization as it celebrates its 30th 
anniversary.
  The Napa grapegrowers, or NVG as they are commonly referred to, 
started in 1975 as a group of 7 local farmers and now boasts over 400 
members. Since that time the NVG has worked passionately with one goal 
in mind: to serve and protect the grapegrowers of the Napa Valley. The 
members of the NVG are dedicated, hard working individuals who care 
very deeply about the Napa Valley and the communities in which they 
live and work. They truly understand what it is that makes the Napa 
Valley so unique and special.
  Mr. Speaker, the NVG has contributed to numerous efforts across the 
Napa valley and beyond, providing a powerful voice for grapegrowers in 
Sacramento and Washington, DC. In 1976, just one year after its 
foundation, the NVG played a crucial role in writing the rules that 
brought about the recognition of truly unique grapegrowing regions 
through the creation of the American Viticultural Area designation. As 
a result, these standards have enhanced the quality and reputation of 
Napa Valley Wines.
  When not fighting for grapegrowers' rights, the NVG is busy on the 
home front conducting monthly forums, seminars, and outreach programs 
in order to educate the public on wine related issues. The NVG has 
always believed that educating its membership and the public is the 
best way to grow and protect their wonderful industry.
  Most recently, the NVG has been an integral part of the Federal, 
State and local partnership that is fighting to stop the spread of the 
Glassy-Winged Sharpshooter and Pierce's Disease. If it is not 
contained, Pierce's Disease, which is spread by the Sharpshooter, could 
threaten the life-blood of the Napa Valley's economy and California's 
$45 billion a year wine industry.
  Mr. Speaker, under the leadership of many outstanding individuals, 
the NVG has become a vital part of our local community. As a life long 
resident of the Napa Valley, I understand the many challenges of being 
a successful grapegrower and a responsible steward of our land. I speak 
for grapegrowers and citizens throughout the Napa Valley when I say 
that we are truly grateful to have the NVG looking out for our best 
interest. It is certainly appropriate that we take this time to 
recognize and honor the success of the Napa Valley Grapegrowers as they 
celebrate 30 years of service to the community.

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