Julia Brownley

Ms. BROWNLEY of California

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize Kimberly Evans, an outstanding community leader, public servant, and tireless advocate for military members, veterans, and their families in Ventura County. Kim Evans demonstrates remarkable service to our community as the Founder and Director of the Ventura County Military Collaborative, which fosters invaluable collaboration among government, non-profit, and community agencies, organizations and individuals to strengthen and promote the military network of care throughout the region. Kim earned a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University and is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Clinic Counselor in Ventura County. Additionally, Kim was trained at the National Center for PTSD and has been an Embedded Therapist for the Army National Guard and Director of Psychological Health, specializing in working with military members and their families. Kim Evans has devoted over 14 years in service to our military community and is an acknowledged expert on the effects of military deployment on service members and their families. She has tirelessly dedicated her expertise to brief over 8,000 military personnel and family members on mental health issues, and train over 1,200 clinicians throughout the state of California on military culture and working with military members and their families. As Director of the Ventura County Military Collaborative, her outstanding leadership has culminated in three annual Military and Veteran Expos, providing community, fellowship, food, and entertainment, along with free employment, legal, and benefits assistance, which serves to reduce unemployment and homelessness among veterans in our community. Furthermore, Kim has organized numerous community events serving military and veteran families, including Operation Snow Flake, an annual event bringing together Ventura County Military Collaborative members and local volunteers to provide a holiday celebration filled with presents, food, and special guests for military and veteran families in need. Currently, Kim also works with the Ventura County Superior Court as the Veterans Court Liaison, training California police departments on how to work with veterans and how to create successful reintegration for returning law enforcement officers who have been mobilized for combat. Kim's committed involvement in Veterans Court has led directly to a program expansion of over 30% and now includes the Mentor Program, building relationships between veterans. Kim also developed a Veterans Legal Clinic to provide free legal information and advice. For these reasons, it is my distinct honor to recognize and express my sincere appreciation to Kimberly Evans for her remarkable accomplishments and unwavering support and service to the military and veteran population of Ventura County. She is an exemplary citizen, and her tireless advocacy for current and former members of the United States Armed Forces has made an immeasurable impact upon our community.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize Leah Lacayo, an exemplary civil servant, advocate, and community leader in Ventura County. Leah Lacayo has defined civil service through her leadership roles in her community. Her volunteer work has included serving as a trustee of the Ventura County Fair Foundation, a founding member of Destino: The Hispanic Legacy Fund, a board member to the Jewish Labor Committee, and member of the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement. She is a staunch advocate for young people and a passionate supporter for women's rights. Leah has also been a steward for the senior community working alongside her husband, Hank, with the Congress of California Seniors. Additionally, Leah Lacayo has been an active community leader and champion for California State University at Channel Islands (CSUCI) since the university's inception in 2002. More recently, she was elected as the Alumni and Friends Association's Executive Board President in 2009. While serving in this capacity, her goals were to promote a self-sustaining board and create scholarship opportunities for students. Over the years, Leah has been a steadfast supporter of CSUCI students as a voice that encourages and empowers them to pursue their academic endeavors. The work Leah has done, and continues to do, has strengthened our community in a remarkable way. Never failing to rise to the occasion when being asked to serve, the Board of Directors to the 31st District Agricultural Association elected Leah Lacayo as President while serving her second appointment to the board. In this capacity, she oversees the legal body governing the fair and fairgrounds in Ventura County. Leah has upheld the fair as a regional enterprise and continuing source of income for the area. Leah is a good friend to many and I certainly cherish our friendship. She has been a steadfast supporter and has always been willing to offer honest counsel to me over the years both in the California Legislature and in the US Congress on policy issues affecting Ventura County. For these reasons, it is my sincere pleasure to join the Jewish Labor Committee in recognizing Leah Lacayo with the Elinor Glenn Leadership Award for her extraordinary life of leadership, engagement, and dedication to her community.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize Takayuki Kubota. For seventy-five years Mr. Kubota has been involved in the study and practice of the martial arts and is one of the most widely known and respected Karate masters in the United States. Born on September 20, 1934 on the Japanese Island of Kyushu, Mr. Kubota's commitment and study of the martial arts began when he was four years old under the guidance and direction of his father. His dedication and daily training led to studying diverse styles of martial arts, which include incorporating the study of meditation and history, as well as the non-combative facets of the arts. This dedication and passion inspired Mr. Kubota to start the International Karate Association with affiliated schools throughout the globe. Through his association, he teaches his own unique style of karate, known as Gosoko Ryu Karate, and is recognized around the world for its effectiveness. Over the years, Mr. Kubota has had thousands of students from around the world come to learn and practice his karate style. These students are attracted to his versatility in his ways of teaching. In addition, he has trained a multitude of federal, state, law enforcement personnel, largely on a volunteer basis. It is with sincere appreciation that I recognize Takayuki Kubota for the value he has contributed to his community through his dedication and teachings of the martial arts.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize Chief Master Sergeant Richard R. Onsgard, Command Chief Sergeant for the 146th Airlift Wing for the Channel Islands Air National Guard Station, on the special occasion of his retirement from a distinguished and exemplary career. Chief Onsgard has had a remarkable and admirable career enlisting in the Air National Guard in 1972, serving the Los Angeles Fire Department for 24 years and rising to the rank of Engineer, and being selected in 1996 as First Sergeant of the 115th Airlift Squadron. Answering his country's call of duty, Chief Onsgard was activated for Operation Noble Eagle and assigned to a Marine Expeditionary Force. In addition to serving on active duty for both Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, Chief Onsgard has supported missions for the National Guard Bureau in many areas including logistics and planning. As the senior ranking enlisted member of the 146th Airlift Wing, Chief Onsgard has served as the Command Chief and the principal advisor to the wing commander on areas pertaining to the welfare, health, morale, progress, and efficient utilization of all the enlisted members assigned to the wing. In addition to his honorable service, Chief Onsgard has served as the representative to the wing commander and the enlisted force on committees, councils, boards, and has represented the enlisted force at military and civilian functions. His work has earned him many accolades and awards that mirror his personal vigor and professional work ethic. These honors include the Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Air Force Achievement Medal, and the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, which are but a few of the decorations that showcase his long career path of achievements. Chief Onsgard's lifetime career of servant leadership and his many accomplishments are indicative of his unwavering commitment and dedication to his country and community. As this chapter in his career comes to an end, I want to express my sincere appreciation for Chief Onsgard's years of honorable and selfless service that greatly contributed to the success of the United States Air National Guard's mission. For these reasons, I commend Chief Master Sergeant Richard Onsgard and wish him the best in all of his future endeavors.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to bring up H.R. 15, a bipartisan, comprehensive immigration reform bill to properly address the humanitarian crisis at the border.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize Celeste Weingardt, an inspiring leader and determined activist, who has assiduously worked on women's issues including protecting and promoting access to reproductive healthcare and services. For over two decades, Celeste has served as a beacon of empowerment for women in politics and community leadership in Ventura County. Celeste first became involved with the Women's Political Appointments Coalition of Ventura County in 1990. Shortly thereafter, she joined the Commission for Women in Ventura County, where she served as chair of the organization during her years of dedicated service. Celeste has also offered her extensive and invaluable leadership and expertise to organizations such as the Ventura County Reproductive Rights Network; the Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence; the National Women's Political Caucus at the city, state, and national levels; and the Ventura County Women's Forum Collaborative. Throughout her years of service, Celeste has advocated for a vast array of women's issues including reproductive rights and justice, teenage pregnancy prevention, the prevention and elimination of violence against women both locally and globally, as well as access to quality and affordable childcare. Her exemplary work has been a true inspiration to many women throughout our region. In addition, Celeste currently sits on the organizing committee of the Women's Political Council of Ventura County and serves on the board of the Planned Parenthood Action Fund of Santa Barbara, Ventura, and San Luis Obispo Counties, which actively works to protect family planning and reproductive rights. It is my sincere pleasure to join the Ventura County Women's Political Council in recognizing Celeste Weingardt for her instrumental efforts and activities to engage and empower women. For her continued active and effective advocacy and leadership, I wholeheartedly commend Celeste Weingardt for her impressive career of service which she has selflessly given to her community.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, I have a motion at the desk.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my strong support for the military sexual trauma provisions that were included in the Senate- passed H.R. 3230 and to urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on the motion to instruct conferees to accept these provisions. As you know, the statistics on military sexual assault are staggering. In 2012, a Pentagon survey estimated that 26,000 women and men were sexually assaulted. However, the Pentagon only received 3,374 formal allegations. Clearly, there remains a deep-seated cultural problem in the military that discourages our servicemen and -women from coming forward to report cases of sexual assault. Nonetheless, if one counts those cases reported, more and more men and women are currently leaving the military with PTSD from sexual assault. This cannot continue. Military sexual assault is the ultimate violation of the basic principles of trust, respect, honor, and dignity that is the bedrock of the principles our military men and women expect and deserve, and they are principles our country rightly demands. Changing culture, as anyone from the public or private sectors know, and those of us dealing with issues at the Veterans Administration know all too well, changing culture is very difficult. But the culture of our military must change, and we, my colleagues, need to accelerate that change, from the military chain of command to reforms of our military justice system. Clearly, preventing military sexual assault in the first place is critical, but it is equally critical that we provide servicemembers leaving the military who have suffered from sexual assault, to make access to care at the VA easier and safer, to make sure survivors get the benefits and services they need, and to ensure that the VA provides the very best treatment possible. Compassion and care are a critical part of healing for those who have been sexually assaulted. We need an environment where it is safe to speak up and where we would never find anyone's story unjustly dismissed or treated with indifference, which would only make the trauma and the wound even deeper. We have a bill before us that provides relief not only for those who have endured sexual assault, but for so many of the issues facing our veterans at this very moment. I deeply appreciate the leadership from our chairman on the committee, who has done a tremendous amount to help our veterans, and he continues to do so. But the time to act is now. The crisis is clear. We have a path to address it. We have veterans who deserve it, and we have a Congress willing to provide the resources needed. We have said time and time again in our hearings we need big change and big ideas. We need real transformation, and, most importantly, we need a VA whose sole purpose and mission is to serve our veterans with the same vigor and sacrifice that our veterans have served our country. Mr. Speaker, our veterans must come first in everything we do. There is a lot of work ahead of us that the VA needs to do, and our committee must continue to do so. Persistent and consistent oversight every step of the way on our part will leverage the leadership and the strategic plan from within the VA to ensure that we deliver timely and quality health care with a compassion that our veterans and their families have earned and deserve. I have no doubt that the leadership of the chairman has been instrumental to our committee's being able to work together in a bipartisan fashion to get us to this point, and it is imperative that we continue to work in a bipartisan fashion. Our veterans are counting on us, and our country is counting on us. As ranking member of the House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Health and someone who has respected all of the work of the committee on these issues, it is my belief that our veterans simply cannot and should not wait another day. We have a bill that the Senate has passed and that we know the House would pass. We are currently scheduled by the Speaker to recess next Thursday. If the Speaker keeps to that timeline, we need to accept what is on the table: a bill that we know can pass both Houses and that we know the President will sign so that our veterans receive the care they deserve. We must include the provisions to improve VA treatment for survivors of military sexual trauma. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on the motion to instruct conferees, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, I just want to recognize my colleague, the gentleman from Colorado. He has worked hard on this committee. I want to make clear that what we are talking about today is the bill that passed the Senate 93-3. So we are not talking about an airdrop or moving the goalpost; we are talking about the bill that passed out of the Senate 93-3. At this time, Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from Nevada (Ms. Titus) who has been a leader on this issue and introduced the Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from New Hampshire (Ms. Kuster), a valued and insightful member of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. I yield an additional 30 seconds to the gentlewoman.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from Massachusetts (Ms. Tsongas) who has been an extraordinary leader and champion, and also the cochair of the Military Sexual Assault Prevention Caucus.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Speier) who has been instrumental in reforming the Uniform Code of Military Justice in her role on the House Armed Services Committee.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. Jackson Lee), who has also been a leader and advocate for justice for our survivors in the Judiciary Committee.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. I yield an additional 30 seconds to the gentlewoman from Texas.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, might I inquire if the gentleman from Colorado will have any additional speakers?

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Then I am prepared to close.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. In closing, I would like to add that as ranking member of the Health Subcommittee, I led a hearing last July to address VA care and treatment for military sexual trauma survivors. The subcommittee looked at the coordination of care and services offered by the Department of Defense and the VA. I was truly saddened to listen to the testimonies of those who spoke. Their pain and suffering was evident in every word they spoke. I know it was hard for all of them to share their stories, and I know all of us understand the immense bravery it took for them to do so. I know that all of us, including those who have come to speak today, are dedicated to addressing military sexual assault. The Senate bill takes an important step forward toward that end. It is but one very important reason why I call on my colleagues to support this motion to instruct. Let's insist that the Department of Defense and the VA address the epidemic of military sexual assault, which must include appropriate care and treatment of trauma survivors, and let's adopt the language in the Senate bill that addresses military sexual trauma. We have a bill before us that was crafted by Members of Congress whose dedication to our veterans is beyond question, but we are running out of time. We have a bill that we know will pass both Houses, that we know the President will sign, that we know will provide significant relief to our veterans immediately. We simply cannot negotiate any longer. Time is of the essence. We should move forward. We should adopt the Senate bill. I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on the motion to instruct conferees, and, Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, pursuant to clause 7(c) of rule XXII, I hereby give notice of my intention to offer a motion to instruct conferees on H.R. 3230, the conference report on Veterans Access and Accountability. The form of the motion is as follows: Ms. Brownley of California moves that the managers on the part of the House at the conference on the disagreeing votes of the two Houses on the House amendment to the Senate amendment to the bill H.R. 3230 (an Act to improve the access of veterans to medical services from the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes) be instructed to-- (1) recede from disagreement with title V of the Senate amendment (relating to health care related to sexual trauma); and (2) recede from the House amendment and concur in the Senate amendment in all other instances.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the Cities of Oxnard, California, and Ocotlan, Jalisco, Mexico, as they celebrate fifty years of mutually beneficial cooperation and friendship through the Sister City Program. Officially chartered by the United States--Mexico Sister Cities Association in 1964, the partnership between Oxnard and Ocotlan is one of the longest continuous Sister City relationships. As we reflect on fifty years of harmonious interaction, it is clear that the cities have been successful in their original mission to promote good will, friendship, and mutual understanding. These many years of welcoming cooperation between the two cities have built a strong foundation of reciprocal admiration and respect between people and communities of different countries. Throughout the last fifty years, the Sister City program has established strong economic, educational, and cultural bonds, benefitting the people of both Oxnard and Ocotlan alike. The Sister City Committee has facilitated many donations of safety equipment, medical supplies, library books, and even three fire trucks, which provided the City of Ocotlan with the ability to establish its first fire department. When disaster struck Ocotlan after the 1992 earthquake, the City of Oxnard gladly assisted in emergency fundraising efforts. The Sister City program has also extended many opportunities benefitting students from both cities. Ocotlan students participated in the Oxnard Union High School District's baseball tournaments in 1988 and 1989, and students in the Oxnard High School Band traveled to Ocotlan in 1993 and 1996 to help the city establish its first marching band. The program certainly deserves commendation for the investments it has made in the futures of these students. I would like to recognize all members of the Oxnard Sister City Committee, including Officers: Mary Anne Rooney, President; Debra Cordes, Vice President; JoAnn Oliveras, Secretary; and Teresa Ramos, Treasurer; and Directors: Allison Cordes; Marsha Cordes; Dorian Guerrero; Priscilla Herrera; Adela L. Lambert; and Ben Wada. I would also like to recognize all members of the Ocotlan Sister City Committee, including Officers: Jorge Mario Perez, Presidente; Everardo Santos Ramos, Tesorero; and Jacinto Rodriguez, Rel. Publicas. I want to congratulate the Cities of Oxnard and Ocotlan on this momentous occasion and look forward to the future accomplishments and successes that this relationship will foster.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the City of Fillmore as it celebrates 100 years of incorporation. Fillmore, whose motto reads: ``The Last, Best Small Town in Southern California,'' is truly a gem of Ventura County. This tight-knit community cherishes its history and tradition, which are rooted in long-standing community values and are preserved and showcased through its many historical landmarks. Fillmore's history extends beyond the early days of rural Southern California with its significant role in the development of the momentous railroad industry. A stroll through the Fillmore Historical Museum retells the stories of the Southern Pacific Railroad's 19th century depots. The residents of Fillmore live alongside grand stretches of lemon, orange, and avocado groves, and at the foot of the Hopper Mountain National Wildlife Refuge and the Los Padres National Forest, home to the Sespe Condor Sanctuary. It is an honor to be part of and serve a community with such reverence for the environment and with great devotion to local agriculture in its economy. There is much to gain from preserving California's farming tradition and much to learn from the historic pastimes of this Southern Californian municipality. As we commemorate the city's 100th anniversary, I would like to commend the City of Fillmore and its residents, past and present, on their success of reaching this milestone. I offer my sincerest congratulations during this centennial celebration and look forward to many more years of growth and prosperity.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize Hugh J. Ralston, a remarkable visionary and steadfast leader whose commitment to the success of his community and the growth of philanthropy are immeasurable. With over a decade of service as the Ventura County Community Foundation's (VCCF) President and Chief Executive Officer, Hugh Ralston oversaw the foundation increase its assets by one million dollars. This growth in resources included the purchase of the VCCF nonprofit center, the expansion of irrevocable planned donations and philanthropic contributions throughout the community, and a tenfold increase in its annual scholarship support that have benefitted hundreds of Ventura County students. With an annual distribution amount of $1.3 million, VCCF plays an incredible supportive role for our region's students and nonprofit organizations. It is powerhouse foundations like the Ventura County Community Foundation that empower the greatest efforts for change and benefits that spread all across our community and nation. The work that VCCF has done, with Hugh Ralston at the helm, has been duly recognized as being in compliance with national standards, the highest form of peer review for U.S. Community Foundations and the only form of accreditation within the U.S. Philanthropic community. In the past decade, Hugh has secured partnerships with prominent local organizations which support veterans, farmworkers, social justice advocates, medical students, professionals, and many other communal groups. During his time as the head of the VCCF, Hugh established the annual Community Leaders Awards and the biennial President's Awards which create networks and recognition for Ventura County leaders who do countless work with their nonprofits. Community leaders like Hugh exemplify Ventura County's unsurpassed leadership. Although Hugh will be stepping down from his position as President and CEO of Ventura County Community Foundation, his legacy at VCCF and his immense impact on the community will continue to inspire the future of nonprofits and local philanthropy. Hugh Ralston has been an amazing force in our region. The efforts that he has made for students, non-profit organizations, and the working community have ensured a remarkable investment in the future and deserve an innumerable level of gratitude. I graciously thank Hugh for his unwavering commitment and dedication for the past 11 years as the President and CEO of the Ventura County Community Foundation. It has been my honor to collaborate and work with Hugh and there is no doubt in my mind that his influence will extend to many generations of community engagement and philanthropy.

Ms. BROWNLEY of California

Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize Robin Lea Hutton, President of Angels Without Wings, Inc., a non-profit corporation dedicated to giving relief to the poor, the distressed and underprivileged, and honoring those people and groups who help others in need. It is through her leadership and vision that Angels Without Wings has spearheaded the development and dedication of a national memorial monument to the remarkable Korean War hero horse, Sgt. Reckless. This memorial serves to honor all animals that have served our country in times of war--whether as mascots for our servicemembers, or ammunitions carriers, like Sgt. Reckless. Ms. Hutton has also brought further recognition to these animals by authoring Sgt. Reckless: America's War Horse. This book tells the incredible story of Reckless, who is listed in Life Magazine's ``Celebrate our Heroes,'' as one of our all-time great heroes and whose antics make her a revered part of the history and lore of the United States Marine Corps. For her patriotic service and exceptional work, Ms. Hutton is being bestowed with the Patriotic Citizen of the Year award and will receive the Silver Patrick Henry medal from the Conejo Valley Chapter of the Military Order of the World Wars. It is my honor to offer my sincere congratulations to Ms. Hutton on this special occasion and to thank her for her dedication to telling the story of America's war horse.