RECOGNIZING LAWRENCE FAMILY FARMS

On 2026-06-18, Representative David G. Valadao (R-CA-22) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING LAWRENCE FAMILY FARMS" in the House.

RECOGNIZING LAWRENCE FAMILY FARMS

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 103 (Thursday, June 18, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 103 (Thursday, June 18, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E585-E586] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING LAWRENCE FAMILY FARMS ______ HON. DAVID G. VALADAO of california in the house of representatives Thursday, June 18, 2026 Mr. VALADAO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Lawrence Family Farms on being named the 2026 Tulare Dairy Family of the Year and to commend their outstanding contributions to California's dairy industry and the Central Valley community. Founded by first-generation farmers Matt and Lisa Lawrence, Lawrence Family Farms has quickly made a meaningful impact, delivering some of the highest-quality dairy products in California. Each year, the Tulare Chamber of Commerce honors a local dairy family during its Annual Salute to Dairy celebration in recognition of National Dairy Month. This prestigious award recognizes dedication to the dairy industry, agricultural leadership, and community engagement, making the Lawrence family's selection especially well-deserved. Matt Lawrence's story reflects the promise of the American Dream. His parents moved from a small community in the Azores, Portugal, to seek a better life here in America. From a young age, Matt was always interested in farming, finding any opportunity he could to immerse himself in agriculture. Through his involvement in FFA, he gained hands-on experience working with dairy cattle and developed the agricultural skills that would lay the foundation for his future career. Matt continued pursuing his passion at Fresno State University, where he majored in Agricultural Education. During his time there, many of his professors encouraged him to become more involved. Following this advice, he [[Page E586]] took up the responsibility of running the college farm, which gave him the experience and industry connections needed to have a successful career in the agricultural sector. After graduating, he worked as a salesman for an artificial insemination company before quickly following his lifelong dream of running his own dairy. Partnering with former Dairy Family of the Year recipient Frank Mendonsa and his son Brandon, Matt and Lisa established a successful dairy operation in Visalia. Building on that success, Matt and Lisa founded Lawrence Family Farms in 2020. In just six years, they have grown their operation into a thriving business that has already made a lasting mark on the Central Valley dairy industry and is undoubtedly on the path for many more years of success. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me in congratulating Lawrence Family Farms on being named the 2026 Dairy Family of the Year. Their contributions to the Central Valley will be felt for generations to come. ____________________