Richard Pombo: “I rise today with my fellow delegates to celebrate and honor the 150th birthday of the great state of California. I have…”

“I rise today with my fellow delegates to celebrate and honor the 150th birthday of the great state of California. I have the honor of representing the 11th district of California, which includes the San Joaquin County cities of Stockton and Lodi. Each has played a dynamic part in the historic and economic development of the Golden State. The town of Lodi was settled by families of German descent from North Dakota. It first served as a railroad stop known as Mokelumne Station in 1869, which was renamed to Lodi three years later. Formally the ``Watermelon Capital,'' Lodi today is known as the ``Wine grape Capital'' of the world. This booming town of over 50,000 residents is home to the Tokay Grape and over 40,000 acres of vineyards. Some of California's finest wineries are located in nearby Woodbridge and Acampo. Stockton is the backbone of California's agricultural hub and home to nearly 250,000 residents. It is our state's largest inland shipping port, which sends the San Joaquin Valley's farm products to the open market. Thanks to its rich soil and temperate climate, Stockton is one of the most productive growing areas in California. Major crops include asparagus, cherries, tomatoes, walnuts and almonds. Stockton is also home to the University of the Pacific, a charming campus known for its programs in law and pharmacy. Stockton has historically been a multicultural city.”