Los Banos Rotary Club History
Congressman Sisk Is Speaker Here

Congressman D. F. Sisk of Fresno, our representative in U.S. Congress, was in Los Banos Tuesday addressing both the Rotary and Lions Clubs and conferring with local people regarding status of the San Luis Project and other matters of local interest.

At the Rotary club, the Congressman was introduced by Judge D. Oliver Germino, who complimented him on his excellent work in representing this district, and for his close cooperation with others of the California delegation. He particularly quoted U.S Senator Thomas Kuchel as stating that Congressman Sisk is to be highly complimented for his excellent voting record, for his cooperation, and faithful adherence to the best interests of this district.

Congressman Sisk briefly reviewed accomplishments of the last session of Congress and of his work there, stating that he has endeavored in all matters to operate on a principle of American first, and welfare of his own district second. Although he is a Democrat and has no intention of ever being otherwise, the Congressman said he did not permit politics to enter into his thinking as regards home and nation, and endeavored always to operate his office on a strictly non-partisan basis.

On the personal side, Sisk stated he was particularly interested in irrigation and reclamation and also veterans' affairs. He is a member of the Veteran Affairs committee and of the sub-committee on Irrigation and Reclamation.
Regarding the San Luis Project, the Congressman emphasized the importance of the project and said he was doing everything in his power to secure its early authorization. "I am not especially concerned," he said, "with who builds the project, just so it gets started. The underground pool of water throughout the valley is dropping rapidly and unless something is done, quickly, California will face the loss of thousands of acres. All of us will be hurt,--farmer, business man, professional man, all alike. The entire economy of our valley is based on water; it is our only guarantee of future prosperity."
Emphasizing that he is not opposed to the state plan, nor to the Feather river project, Sisk declared he is interested solely in getting the job done. "We have been talking about more water for the valley for many years, but the time has come to quit talking and start aoting. It will still be some years before the state can build the project; I favor construction by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation now, and plan for integration with the system at such time as the state is ready to take over."

The congressman said he plans to devote most of his time in furtherance of this project at the next session of Congressman, is hopeful that it can be authorized within the coming two years. Sisk also pointed out the major stumbling block at the present time is the attitude of southern California interests, which seem to be using San Luis as a wedge to secure water security for themselves. There is a great need, he said.

October 21, 1955

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