Jim Costa: “On Monday, in Boston, we were reminded how vulnerable we all are as Americans and how important it is that we stay…”

“On Monday, in Boston, we were reminded how vulnerable we all are as Americans and how important it is that we stay together. Today, I rise to recognize the Merced Community Violence Intervention and Prevention Task Force. This hardworking organization in the San Joaquin Valley that I represent is the 2013 recipient of the Lois Haight Award of Excellence and Innovation from the Victims' Rights Caucus, of which I am a cochair. The task force is an innovative collaboration of local leaders that was formed in 2006 in response to gang-related violence throughout the Merced community. The task force makes Merced a safer place by educating the community about violence, promoting character development, and providing information to families and, most importantly, our youth. From gang awareness workshops to Merced County's first anonymous ``text a tip'' line, the task force has contributed greatly to our Merced community and throughout the area. On behalf of the Victims' Rights Caucus, congratulations and thank you to the Merced Community Violence Intervention and Prevention Task Force. ____________________”