Tony Cárdenas

Mr. CARDENAS

Mr. CARDENAS. Mr. Speaker, I have had the honor and the privilege to represent the northeast San Fernando Valley for 28 years as a State assemblyman, as a city council member, and as a United States Congress Member. I grew up in a neighborhood where I was told far too often: You are never going to amount to anything. You want to go to college? Don't even try it. Kids like you from your neighborhood never amount to anything. I heard that countless, countless times, too many times from too many people, but I am here to remind anybody and everybody who has ever experienced that kind of negativity, those kinds of lies, that that is just not true. I am very proud to say that I grew up in a community of hardworking people, a community that most of the families or most of the children are raised by immigrants in my community, just like me. I was raised by immigrants from Mexico, Andres and Maria Cardenas, who came to this country not for themselves but for future generations to have a better life, a better life than they were afforded in their hometown of Temastian, Jalisco, Mexico. I thank the many, many people who have been a positive influence in my life and who have given me support in many different ways. I first thank the voters of my district who voted to elect me in 1996 to be the first person of color, the first Latino, to ever represent San Fernando Valley in any of our capitals. They elected me to be the State assemblyman for a community that was over 80 percent minority people. In a community where we never had a person of color represent us, they elected me to be the first one. It was an honor that I didn't take lightly. I took it very seriously. I made sure that my goal wasn't to be the first. My goal was to make sure that I wasn't the last. Again, I thank the voters of the San Fernando Valley who have given me this responsibility and opportunity by voting me into office for over the last 28 years. I hope and pray that I have done well for all of my constituents. I have tried my best. I have always done my best. I have always listened to them. I have always taken in the issues and tried to interpret them the best that I could to make sure that all of their lives in the San Fernando Valley are better for it. I thank my parents, Andres and Maria Cardenas, and my ten brothers and sisters, for being such positive role models for me, for teaching me how to be good, do good, and give back to our great country and our community. God is good because God gave me ten older brothers and sisters and two parents who stayed together for 48 years until my father passed away, who gave me all the examples I needed, the example of stick to it, the example of making sure that when you have ``ganas'' ``the will power,'' when you want to get something done, do it, and to always think positive, always be positive, always give to others. They taught me faith. They taught me how to respect myself and my community. Those are the examples, not my college degrees. Those are the examples that have allowed me to be an effective legislator for the last 28 years, the core building blocks of what it means and what it takes to be the best that you can be, not perfect, but the best that one can be. I thank the community leaders like teachers and counselors and people who passed through my life and put their arm on my shoulder and said: You can do this. You are good enough. They nurtured me and encouraged me to always do good, to always think positive, to always believe in myself. Again, to those people who choose to say the opposite of that to young people like I was, to people who grow up in bad neighborhoods-- whatever that means--to the sons and daughters of immigrants whose parents don't even speak English, who raised their children here to love this country, to respect this country, and to honor this country; to the people who don't believe in people like me, like the ones that have passed through my life and told me the lies that you can't do this and you can't do that, good always prevails over bad, always. To young people who have to endure that: I have endured it myself. Don't believe those lies. Believe in yourself. You are better than those who put you down. I thank the supporters in the community who have volunteered all across our district, who have always been there to help thy neighbors when we were able to get resources out in the community and we needed help in doing so. I thank those community volunteers. To the supporters in the halls of city hall, in our State capitol, and here in our United States Capitol, I thank you for encouraging me to be myself and to do the best job that I can for our country and for all people. I have been very blessed to have amazing staff in all of my years in office, 28 years, dozens and dozens of amazing, wonderful people who have a heart for public service, people who put their heart and soul into everything that they do for the people. They are smart, talented, and caring people who have served our community and our country with distinction and honor. To all of my staff, I thank them for serving. I see them as family and my family sees them as family as well. I also thank my mother-in-law--yes, my mother-in-law. She loves me like a son. My mother-in-law, who came here as a young immigrant, Elvira Delgado Wagner, and my father-in-law, Jesus Luis Sanchez, and my brothers-in-law, Louie and Robert, to my many brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, and my over 40 nieces and nephews: Without you, our family, my family, my wife, Norma, and our children may not have been able to do this for this long. I thank all of them for being part of the support system that any and every elected official needs to do this job of public service. I am eternally grateful to my wife, Norma, and our children, Vanessa, Cristian, Andres, and Alina. You have been so supportive and understanding for the past 28 years, to have that weird life of seeing your father go away for 3 or 4 days at a time to the State capitol, to the United States Capitol, being involved in community meetings and community events, yes, even during your birthdays and our anniversaries. I thank them so much for their understanding and their support and their patience. I also thank my son-in-law Brian De La Rosa and also our two beautiful grandchildren, Joaquin and Jimena. How blessed I am to be a husband, a father, a grandfather, to have so many beautiful family members that I can count on that have always supported me in a loving, beautiful way. Next to me is a picture of my wife, Norma, about the time that I met her. You might say, wow, I know why he fell in love with her. The beauty that my wife, Norma, exudes is nowhere near as beautiful as what she has inside. She is so understanding, so supportive, so tolerant of me. We have been married for 32 years, and I am grateful for every day. Being an elected official is a difficult job. I would say for family members of full-time elected officials like us, Members of Congress, being a family member of an elected official is harder. As elected officials people praise us more than they should perhaps. People laugh at our jokes. People tell us nice things, but our family members don't necessarily receive that praise or that acknowledgment. I am not just speaking for myself; I think I speak for all of us who are elected, who do our job willingly, who do our job as it is supposed to be done with 100 percent of effort. Let me tell you, you will never hear an elected official say that their family comes first. I have said it, and I mean it. However, when you actually consider who sacrifices the most not having their father, their mother with them, their brother, their sister, their husband, their wife, who is the elected official, what the family endures, I believe, is more. I have been blessed, blessed to be elected in a community that did not see themselves in their elected officials. Today, more of us do in the northeast San Fernando Valley. When I got elected in 1996, one of my core missions was to break that glass ceiling; to be the first person of that community and from that community who went to those public schools, who tripped on those broken sidewalks, who drove over those potholes and felt forgotten, to get elected to office and to fill those potholes and fix those cracks and make those schools better and build new schools. Those are the things that I have been able to help achieve for our community over the last 28 years. I made it my personal mission that wherever I went I would identify with good people who wanted to be good public servants and help them get elected starting with my own community. I helped a young man, an amazing young man, Alex. I met him when he was 21 years old. Somebody was telling me, Tony, you need to run for the State assembly. I asked Alex, If I run for the State assembly, will you run my campaign? I didn't know anything about campaigns. He said, Neither do I, but let's do this. When I decided to run, I made him my campaign manager. He had never run a campaign before in his life. The district was 450,000 people. It was not an easy task, but we took it on as two people who grew up in Pacoima, two kids who were both told by the same math teacher 10 years apart from one another that they couldn't cut it. When I told my math teacher that I got accepted to the University of California, Santa Barbara to be an electrical engineering student, he laughed in my face, and he told me, You can't cut it. Don't even try it. They will eat you alive. Try community college, maybe you can handle that. Mr. Speaker, 10 years later when Alex Padilla got selected to go to MIT, the number one engineering university in the world, that same math teacher told him, You can't cut it. That young man, Alex Padilla, got elected to the L.A. City Council, became the first Latino council president of the city of Los Angeles and the youngest council president in the history of Los Angeles. He later went on to be our State senator for our community, and served two terms. Then he went on to be the secretary of State, the first Latino secretary of State in California history and served his two terms there. One day he got the call from our Governor of California and was asked: Will you accept my appointment to be our United States Senator for California to fill the vacancy that Kamala Harris left when she became our first woman Vice President of the United States? With tears in his eyes, he said, Yes. The reason why Alex Padilla was brought to tears was because when the Governor asked him if he would take on that responsibility, if he would accept that responsibility, I said, Mama Padilla--which is what I called Alex's mother--I said, What would your mother think of you becoming a United States Senator? He thought about the sacrifices that his mother made who cleaned homes for a living, the career that his father had being a short order cook to raise their three children, and he said, Yes, I accept. He has since been elected to the U.S. Senate twice. I am so proud of him, the young man who grew up just a couple of blocks away from me, who endured the same lies that I had to endure from teachers and others who didn't believe in him and didn't believe in me. Unfortunately, too many of those people don't believe in many of us. They don't believe enough of us to think that we can do what we have been elected to do, to be community leaders, to be national leaders, to make decisions that affect every American citizen and beyond. Every time I have been termed out of office or every time I have chosen, like this time, to no longer run for that position, State assembly, city council, and now in Congress as I retire from Congress, I have always chosen someone to consider running in my former position. Every single time, it has been a woman, a Latina, who grew up in the same community that I grew up and that Alex Padilla grew up in, and on every occasion they have done a much better job than I. I am proud of that track record. To be a true public servant, one has to realize it is not about me, it is about we. It is about the community, uplifting the community, bringing out the best in one's self and each other, bringing out the best in our community. When I met my wife, Norma, she looked like the first picture, and she is more beautiful today. I can't take credit for raising our four beautiful children. She can. She says, No, no, no, it wasn't me. Yes, it was. Yes, it was. She takes care of the family when I am away too much, making sure that when our children cried there was a shoulder to cry on, making sure that when it was time to take them to the hospital or to the doctor, she did that, not me. She gave me the space to be the best Representative that I can be, and she shouldered the burden of being the mother to our children and filling in the gaps when I couldn't be there. In this picture, as you can see, she is wearing a cap and gown. While doing all that, she actually went to school, and she achieved her goals in many areas. She has run her own business, many times sacrificing her own business to make sure that she didn't leave the family out or that she made sure that she was there for them when I couldn't be there. Oftentimes when we think of the people who are closest to us we take it for granted how much they support us, how much they give of themselves, how much they give to others. I just wanted to make sure that before I leave Congress, before I no longer can express what I feel I need to express on the House floor in these Chambers--because when I am no longer a Member of Congress, I am not allowed to come and speak from the podium, to speak from that microphone. Only current Members of Congress are allowed to do that, as it should be. I would be remiss if I didn't take the opportunity to say thank you to so many people, to say thank you to my family members, to say thank you to my staff, to say thank you to the people who cared for me and loved me enough to teach me and mentor me to help me be the person that I am today. I never cared to be the best. I always made sure that I focused on doing the best that I can achieve, to do the best job that I can. I feel good about my career. People remind me now and then, they say remember when you did this and remember when you did that, and many times I actually put it so far back in my mind that I am like, wow, I did do that, didn't I? We did achieve that. I hope that what I do in the future can give me the satisfaction of knowing the difference that we were able to make in these Chambers, in city hall, in our State capital, but I feel confident that I am going to be happy because God has blessed me with beautiful children, beautiful grandchildren, amazing family members, and the most beautiful woman I have ever met, the most beautiful woman in the world, my wife, Norma. I hope that she can put up with me being around more often. When I hear from my friends who have retired once in a while they hear from their wives when they retire or their partner, Don't you have somewhere to be? I can understand if my wife, Norma, says that to me. I hope she doesn't, but if she does, I can understand. She comments sometimes that being married to an engineer can be difficult. I know. I know what she means. Again, I wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you to all the people who choose the life of being an elected official. I want to say thank you to all of the people in my life who have helped me become an elected official, to be an elected official for 28 years, staff, friends, family, voters, everyone. It has been an honor. It has been a privilege. My interpretation of that is I think that I receive a lot of love from all of you. That is how I interpret it. I love you, too. Thank you for giving me this honor. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CARDENAS

Mr. CARDENAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a successful, self- made businesswoman, a philanthropist, a motivator, a luminary, and a great friend, Christina Winters, for her incredible accomplishments. Christina Winters, a factory worker's daughter, comes from a simple blue-collar household that taught her critical principles and the values that shaped her unique character and life's work. She grew up in the household with very little money where she managed to learn the value of a hard-earned dollar, and applied her knowledge and experiences into a long and successful career helping others manage their finances in order to enjoy a prosperous life. Today, Christina Winters is the president and CEO of Creating and Managing Wealth, CMW, LLC. Based out of Irving, Texas, CMW is a business dedicated to looking out for the very best interests of people. This business is the very reflection of Christina's very essence. I had the pleasure of working for Christina very early on in my life. As my boss, Christina was always so generous with her time and her knowledge. Christina is the kind of boss that everyone would be blessed to have. Christina has been a lifelong mentor and friend to me. Over the years, I have seen firsthand Christina's commitment to help and uplift others. She has become a very influential leader in the world of finance and life planning, and has evolved to become a successful leadership builder. She has successfully navigated and overcome our male-dominated corporate environment. Christina has stepped up into positions of leadership and power. Today, she is sharing her stories and invaluable advice to help empower women and people of color to step up into their leadership roles. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Christina Winters has had a long track record of volunteering and taking on numerous philanthropic causes. We could spend countless hours going through each and every one of her community service accolades because she has dedicated her life to giving back. For this reason and many more reasons, I honor her today. Mr. Speaker, I thank Christina for being a loving, caring mentor to many of us. She has touched and changed the trajectory of many of our lives, including my own. I encourage her to continue on this great path of sharing and giving of herself for many, many more years to come.

Mr. CARDENAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the contributions of a dedicated, generous, and kindhearted person, Lisa Murray McGovern. Lisa volunteers for many causes. As the chair of the Democratic Spouses Forum, Lisa welcomes and helps spouses understand how to navigate the unique dynamics of the life of a Congress Member's spouse. My wife, Norma, met Lisa 12 years ago and has benefited from Lisa's wisdom and friendship. Lisa works hard behind the scenes and is someone who does not seek credit or praise. She just does things out of the kindness of her heart. Congressman Jim McGovern is Lisa's husband. Jim has represented Massachusetts' Second Congressional District since 1996. For nearly three decades, many of us have come to count on Lisa's knowledge, experiences, her compassion, and friendship. Her enormous heart extends beyond just helping us, the Members and the spouses, she has made it her life's work to take the fight to cancer. Her fight is personal as Lisa lost her mother to lung cancer in 1996 and has given every effort to the cause. Lisa McGovern is the executive director of the Prevent Cancer Foundation's Congressional Families Program. She has spent two decades cultivating relationships with many national political leaders, encouraging them to use their platforms to promote cancer prevention and early detection. Her tireless work has been very fruitful. Lisa has put together high- profile Capitol Hill events to raise awareness about the foundation's work and has brought out some high-level personalities and popular celebrities to help. Mr. Speaker, Lisa's work and care have not gone unnoticed. On behalf of my wife, Norma, I extend my deep gratitude and sincere appreciation for every single thing that she has done for us. From the bottom of my heart, I thank her for sharing the love, mentorship, and friendship to so many of us. Honoring Christina Winters for her Incredible Accomplishments

Mr. CARDENAS

Mr. CARDENAS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a successful businessman, philanthropist, and a good friend, Stephen ``Steve'' Botsford. A midwesterner through and through, Steve Botsford was born in Des Moines, Iowa, and raised in Plymouth, Indiana. Steve grew up just 29 miles from South Bend, Indiana, and he always dreamed of attending the University of Notre Dame. However, his father told him that school was for rich, smart, Catholic kids, and he was none of those things. Steve never let that deter him. Steve believed in himself. His perseverance and hard work paid off. In 1972, Steve graduated from the University of Notre Dame with a B.A. in business management. He received his juris doctorate 3 years later from the University of Notre Dame Law School. After his days in South Bend, Steve spent 2 years working for one of the Big 5 accounting firms of that time before realizing he wasn't meant to have a boss. He then went out on his own, spending most of his early career helping small businesses finance equipment purchases after their local banks had denied them. After a successful career as a CPA, Steve delved into real estate development and founded Laurel Canyon Holdings. Steve developed a project in the San Fernando Valley and that is where our paths would cross. I have gotten to know Steve Botsford since my days on the Los Angeles City Council, and I have seen Steve's commitment to his business, philanthropy, and his beautiful, wonderful family. In 1985, Steve Botsford married Kathleen Dickerson, and they are celebrating 39 years of marriage. They are blessed with three beautiful children: Alexandria, Steve, and Victoria. Madam Speaker, I thank Steve Botsford for his integrity, love, and generosity. We all know the saying, ``to know you is to love you,'' and many blessings have come to many of us because we have gotten to know Steve Botsford, and we do love him. I thank him for everything that he has done for our country and for what he has done for our communities. I will also point out that, although Steve Botsford has raised his family in Chicago and that has been his home for decades, Steve Botsford has adopted many, many programs around the country and has been a tremendous philanthropist. I will mention one of them in particular. The Cardenas Foundation was founded after my mother and father, two humble people, came from Mexico and raised 11 children to go on to college and many other successful things. Steve Botsford has contributed over half a million dollars to give scholarships to mostly first-generation college students. That is just one example of Steve's generosity.

Mr. CARDENAS. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize Fernando ``Freddie'' Sanchez, born on October 9, 1946, in Mexico, D.F. Freddie was raised in Mexico's border state of Baja, California, spending most of his early years in the cities of Mexicali, Ensenada, and Tijuana, before he made his way to the United States. Freddie Sanchez is like many of the thousands of brave young Latino men and women who have answered the call when our country has needed them the most. Freddie Sanchez's military service spanned from 1968 to 1970. He spent 5 months training in the old U.S. Army post at Fort Ord, California. Freddie saw military action in Vietnam, spending a year in the Army's Long Binh Post near Saigon. He served the remaining 7 months in Fort Carson, Colorado. Freddie Sanchez was designated military occupational specialty 88. He was part of the transportation specialists. Freddie drove 10-ton Army trucks and had the honor of driving the company commander. As Freddie often reminds us that nothing good comes easy, but thanks to the Army, he was well trained and was able to succeed. Following his military service, Freddie worked 50 years for Lockheed Martin, first as a mechanic and machinist, and then as a foreman. Freddie enjoyed going to work every day. He felt his job was more like a hobby. One of the impressive things he got to accomplish was working on the Pathfinder, where his name, along with his colleagues, is recorded forever on a tiny disc. His career at Lockheed allowed him to buy a home in Panama City, California. In 1972, Freddie married his soulmate, Lerina, and they are celebrating 52 years of marriage. Freddie and Lerina are blessed with three children, Fernando Jr., Nancy, and Sergio. Today, their family has grown to include 8 grandchildren, 12 stepgrandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren. Norma and I have enjoyed the counsel of Freddie and his support throughout the years. It is now in the Congressional Record that I thank Freddie Sanchez for his service and love of country and for being an honorable family man and an upstanding citizen. Honoring Stephen ``Steve'' Botsford

Mr. CARDENAS

Mr. CARDENAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a lifelong community leader, a relentless advocate, an effective elected official, a mentor, and a genuine good friend. I rise to honor and celebrate the contributions of Robert ``Bob'' Myles Hertzberg. Bob Hertzberg has dedicated decades of service to the good people of the San Fernando Valley, the city of Los Angeles, and the great State of California. For those who know him best, they would describe Bob as a force of nature, a fearless champion for good. One of Harrison Hertzberg's five sons, Bob was born in the city of Los Angeles and grew up in Benedict Canyon on the city's west side. His family would later move eastward to California's desert town of Palm Springs, where Bob graduated from Palm Springs High School. Bob Hertzberg got a taste of the political bug very early on in life. His first job in politics was at the age of 19 where he served as a driver for then State Senator Mervyn Dymally, who would later become California's Lieutenant Governor in 1974. The young Bob Hertzberg forged relationships and supported many of the up-and-coming Latino leaders on the east side of Los Angeles, people like Gloria Molina, Xavier Becerra, Lucille Roybal-Allard, Antonio Villaraigosa, and many other Latino leaders. In 1978, Bob graduated magna cum laude from the University of Redlands with a bachelor of arts degree in history and English. Choosing to follow his father's career path, Bob earned his juris doctorate from the University of California, Hastings College of Law in the 1979. After graduating law school, he spent some formidable years working as an associate at a prestigious law firm and later would join his father, Harrison, to form the Hertzberg & Hertzberg law firm. In 1996, Bob Hertzberg ran for the California State Assembly and won that election in the 40th District in the San Fernando Valley. Bob and I were elected in 1996 and became colleagues. Bob and I represented neighboring districts and had worked together on common regional goals. Bob and I ran for California State Assembly speaker, and Bob won that election, handily by the way. On April 30, 2000, he was unanimously elected by a voice vote as the 64th speaker of the California State Assembly. In the aftermath of the speaker election, instead of holding a grudge toward me, I witnessed firsthand the character of Bob Hertzberg. Much to my surprise at the time, Speaker Hertzberg insisted that I serve on the powerful and coveted position as chairman of the budget committee. Who does that? That is the character of Bob Hertzberg. Bob was able to be an effective speaker. He modernized the institution. He made sure the budget of California reflected our values. He prioritized healthcare for children and seniors. He allocated resources for the modernization of California's public education systems, and he delivered on transportation projects and increased parks and recreation spaces across the State, essentially transforming and improving lives of millions of Californians for generations to come. Bob Hertzberg served the full limit of three terms in the California State Assembly. After his tenure as speaker, Hertzberg set out to be a clean energy entrepreneur. Bob helped create one of the first solar manufacturing companies in Los Angeles and colaunched a company that produced inexpensive, lightweight solar panels for use around the world. In recognition of his clean energy efforts in Rwanda, he received the World Bank Award for Lighting Africa and the United Kingdom-based Guardian Magazine named him one of the ``50 People Who Could Save the Planet.'' In 2014, Bob returned to elected office when he was again elected to represent nearly a million people in the San Fernando Valley in the California State Senate. Throughout Bob's 14 years in the State legislature, Bob Hertzberg has always been a champion for the communities he represented in the San Fernando Valley, and he was named One of the Most Influential People in Southern California by our hometown paper, the Los Angeles Times. Bob was always committed to delivering results for the San Fernando Valley and beyond. During his tenure in the California State Senate, Bob Hertzberg served as majority leader from January 2019 to January 2022. Mr. Speaker, Bob Hertzberg is a one-of-a-kind, exceptional person, and on behalf of my constituents, the great people of California's 29th Congressional District, I thank him for his many years of public service and for delivering time and time again for the people of Los Angeles and the people of California and by touching the world in the most positive way. Once again, I thank my friend.

Mr. CARDENAS

Mr. CARDENAS. Madam Speaker, today I have taken the opportunity to use the privilege and the honor that has been bestowed upon me by the voters of the 29th District of California to share stories and recognition of people in my district and people throughout California who have given so much of themselves. Some of them have passed, and some of them are still with us, but one of the themes of today's recognitions is that they are all Latinos. They are Latinos at heart but true American citizens, true Americans, people who give of themselves every single day and appreciate this country oh, so much. It pains me to hear anyone in this great country cast aspersions upon people who appear to be immigrants or who are, in fact, immigrants. The fact of the matter is that the United States of America was built on the backs of immigrants, some who were brought here against their will, and others who found this great country to be their new home because they were forced to leave their country for whatever atrocities, and in many cases, fleeing for their lives. Asylum seekers, Madam Speaker, are people who come to some other place to seek the opportunity to live. That is what an asylum seeker is. Today, on this planet, we have more people leaving their homes, leaving their home country to go to someplace where they hope and pray they can find safety and a new life. The United States of America has been that beacon, that place where people from Europe, from Africa, from the Americas, from all over this planet, have always found the beautiful, open arms of Americans to say, welcome. It pains me to hear people say anything other than that, and they call themselves true Americans. To me, the United States of America truly is at its best when we give of ourselves, and we welcome others to do the same, as best they can in their new life. Not everybody who flees their country comes to the United States. Some do. Not every country welcomes them with open arms. It is painful to me when I hear or see people call themselves real Americans and disparage people who come to this country to give of themselves, to give the best of themselves, and some people say you are not welcome. That is disgraceful. That is un-American. Some people may look at me and assume that I wasn't born here. I was born here, and I am so proud to call myself an American citizen. Some people may look at my parents, who have now passed away, and look at them and hear their voice or their accent or hear them speak in Spanish and assume that they don't belong here. I am sorry. They came here. They belonged here, and they gave this country their best, just like millions and millions and millions of immigrants who have come to this country for centuries now. It is my prerogative to share what I believe is true about our country. It is my prerogative to stand here in the well of the House of Representatives and speak the truth about our country and the truth about people who don't all look alike, people who don't all speak perfect English, and people who don't look like some people who believe that if you don't look like them, you don't belong here. I say this because I hope and pray that that bigotry, that xenophobia stops. I pray that people learn to exude the best of themselves instead of spewing hate and vitriolic words toward their neighbors, toward people who are here to give the best of themselves. Regardless of their country of origin, regardless of their accent, regardless of how well or not that they may speak English, they belong here. This is my country. This is their country. This country isn't just made for you. It is made for you and me. Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CARDENAS. Madam Speaker, I rise to celebrate and memorialize a fellow Californian who passed away recently at the young age of 38, Jessica Alana Sanchez. Jessica was born and raised in El Paso, Texas. Her family's first home was located about 1 mile from the international border with Mexico. Her parents, Jose Luis Sanchez and Estela Mora, instilled in her a beautiful faith, the love of service, and a duty of working toward justice. Her early life experience helped shape her world view. Her perspective was binational. She had family in Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua, and felt at home there as much as she did in El Paso. Jessica was not constricted by physical walls or political boundaries. Rather, she was inspired by building bridges of understanding and by creating community. Although she was a Texan through and through, she made her mark in California. Jessica dreamed of attending Stanford University. Even though others cautioned her about the school's competitive admittance process, she was undeterred. In 2004 she applied and was accepted. It was at Stanford University where she met the love of her life, Rolando Manzo. After completing her undergraduate studies and internships at Stanford, Jessica and Rolando moved to Boston in 2009 where Jessica attended Boston University School of Law, graduating with a Juris Doctor degree in 2012. In 2013, Jessica was admitted to the State bar of California. Her first job was with a corporate law firm, but she realized that her true calling would be to use her profession in service to others. In 2016, Jessica began working for the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights Los Angeles, otherwise known as CHIRLA. There, she championed social justice and advocated on behalf of migrants and refugees. Her calling was public service, but her love and passion was her family. As her professional career was taking off, Jessica and her husband, Rolando, embarked on their most important adventure, one that would give new meaning to their lives, becoming parents to Leila Itzel. Sadly, in 2020, Jessica was diagnosed with cancer. For 4 years, she courageously battled. She didn't waste any time. Jessica was constantly surrounded by those she loved most. She hugged and kissed her beloved daughter, Leila, every chance she got. Jessica passed away on June 24, 2024. She was taken from us too soon. Yet, she left us with some important lessons: to live our lives in service to others and to take advantage of every waking moment we have with those we love. Jessica Alana Sanchez is survived by her daughter, Leila Itzel Manzo; her husband, Rolando Manzo; her sister, Jacqueline Sanchez; her mother, Estela Mora; and her father, Jose Luis Sanchez. I extend my deepest condolences to Jessica's loved ones. We will continue to keep them all in our prayers, and we will continue to honor her achievements and her legacy. ``Rest in peace, Jessica,'' ``Descansa en paz.'' Madam Speaker, may I inquire as to how much time is remaining?

Mr. CARDENAS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Eva Longoria, a trailblazing Latina who has made indelible contributions to the world of entertainment, philanthropy, and advocacy as a Valley Luchadora. Born in Corpus Christi, Texas, Eva Longoria grew up as the youngest of four daughters in a Tejano family. Her early life experiences in south Texas shaped her deep understanding of the socioeconomic disparities that Latinos face. Longoria's pursuit of education led her to earn a bachelor of science in kinesiology from Texas A&M University-Kingsville and later a master's degree in Chicano studies from California State University Northridge in California. Her academic journey reflects her deep commitment to understanding and advocating for the Latino community, especially Latina women in STEM careers. Eva Longoria's breakout role as Gabrielle Solis on ``Desperate Housewives'' brought her international recognition, earning her multiple awards, including a Golden Globe nomination and multiple Screen Actors Guild awards, but her career in entertainment extends far beyond acting. As a producer and director, she has used her platform to bring diverse stories to the forefront, most notably through her production company, UnbeliEVAble, with an emphasis on Eva, Entertainment. Her directorial debut with ``Flamin' Hot'' garnered critical acclaim and highlighted her versatility and skill in the industry. In addition to her entertainment career, Ms. Longoria has been a successful businesswoman, launching her own fashion and perfume lines and co-owning Angel City FC, a national women's soccer league team. Her influence reaches far beyond Hollywood as she continually advocates for more representation of Latinos in all sectors of society. One of the most impressive aspects of Eva Longoria's career is her commitment to philanthropy. Through her Eva Longoria Foundation, she focuses on closing the educational gap for Latinas and supporting Latina entrepreneurs. She is also the founder of Eva's Heroes, a not-for-profit organization that helps young adults with developmental disabilities, and she serves as a national spokesperson for PADRES Contra El Cancer. Her dedication to these causes has earned her the admiration and respect of communities across the country. Beyond her work in the arts and business, Eva Longoria has played an instrumental role in persevering and showcasing the rich history of Latino contributions to the United States. In recognition of her commitment to promoting Latino heritage, she was appointed by President Obama as a commissioner to the National Museum of the American Latino Commission. This prestigious appointment highlights her dedication to ensuring that the stories, artifacts, and experiences of Latinos over the past 500 years are preserved and shared with future generations. The National Museum of the American Latino will provide a permanent home for the vibrant cultural legacy of Latinos, and Eva's involvement is a testament to her deep connection to her heritage and community. Throughout her life, Eva Longoria has used her voice to advocate for issues that matter most to the Latino community, including immigration reform, voter engagement, and education. She continues to be a beacon of strength and leadership, motivating countless Latinos to pursue their dreams and create lasting change for all. Madam Speaker, it is an honor to recognize Eva Longoria as a true Valley Luchadora for Entertainment. Her contributions to the arts, her unwavering dedication to philanthropy, and her advocacy for Latino empowerment have made her a symbol of pride and inspiration for the entire Latino community. We are grateful for her continued efforts to uplift and transform lives through her work, and we look forward to all of her future accomplishments. Honoring Jessica Alana Sanchez

Mr. CARDENAS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Xolo Mariduena, a rising star and proud representative of the Latino community in the world of entertainment. As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, it is crucial to recognize the trailblazers who are breaking barriers and inspiring future generations, and Xolo Mariduena is one such individual. Through his talent, dedication, and commitment to representing his cultural heritage, Xolo has become a shining example of what it means to be a true Valley Luchador for entertainment. Born and raised in Los Angeles, California, Xolo comes from a rich cultural background, with roots in Mexico, Cuba, and Ecuador. His journey to stardom is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of authentic representation in the entertainment industry. From an early age, Xolo embraced his heritage and the values instilled by his family, and he has used his platform to proudly showcase Latino culture in his work. Xolo Mariduena first captured the public's attention with his role as Miguel Diaz in ``Cobra Kai,'' the sequel series to the iconic ``Karate Kid'' films. At just 16 years old, Xolo brought depth and nuance to the character, earning widespread praise and solidifying his place as a major talent in Hollywood. His portrayal of Miguel, a young man navigating the challenges of life and martial arts, resonated with audiences worldwide, particularly within the Latino community. In 2023, Xolo took his career to new heights with his leading role as Jaime Reyes in ``Blue Beetle,'' marking the first time a Latino superhero has been featured in a live action film. This role is a significant milestone for Latino representation in Hollywood, and Xolo has embraced it with pride, fully aware of the impact it has on young Latinos seeing themselves reflected in a superhero on the big screen. His commitment to authenticity in portraying Jaime, a character deeply connected to his Mexican-American roots, brings a powerful cultural resonance to the film, showcasing the importance of family, tradition, and community. Beyond his on-screen work, Xolo has ventured into music with the release of his debut single ``On My Way'' and cohosts the Lone Lobos podcast with fellow actor Jacob Bertrand. His diverse talents and ventures speak to his passion for storytelling and connecting with audiences in multiple ways. He continues to push boundaries and challenges the norms in the entertainment industry, showing that Latino stories and experiences are not only valid but essential. Xolo's journey is one of inspiration for the next generation of Latino artists and actors. His ability to navigate the challenges of Hollywood while staying true to his roots is a testament to his character and resilience. By embracing his cultural identity and using his platform to advocate for representation, Xolo is paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse entertainment landscape. Madam Speaker, it is my great honor to recognize Xolo Mariduena as a Valley Luchador for Entertainment. His accomplishments as an actor, musician, and advocate for Latino representation makes him a source of pride for the entire Latino community. We are excited to see what the future holds for Xolo as he continues to break barriers and inspire us all. Recognizing Eva Longoria

Mr. CARDENAS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor my good friend and mentor, James Acevedo, as a Valley Luchador. James Acevedo is a dedicated champion of civic engagement and a relentless advocate for the political and economic empowerment of Chicanos and Latinos. Born in East Los Angeles to Elvira and Edward Acevedo in 1952, James grew up witnessing the deep socioeconomic disparities affecting his community. From an early age, he recognized the need for Latino representation and empowerment, both politically and economically. His journey began in East Los Angeles College, where he met Cesar Chavez and became involved in the grape boycotts and the Chicano Moratorium, joining movements that protested both the Vietnam war and the social inequities facing Chicanos at home. At Cal State Los Angeles, Mr. Acevedo continued his activism, becoming chair of MEChA, the Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano de Azltan, where he organized events that brought together community members and Chicano leaders to celebrate their culture and push for progress. His educational pursuits did not stop there. He went on to earn his master's degree and was selected for the prestigious CORO Fellowship in public affairs. During his time at CORO, he further developed his leadership skills under the mentorship of political icons such as Gloria Molina and corporate leaders, all while continuing his graduate studies at USC. Throughout his storied career, James Acevedo has left a legacy as a political strategist and consultant, playing a critical role in more than 100 successful campaigns across the Western United States. His work with figures such as Mayor Tom Bradley, Mayor Richard Riordan, then-Council President Alex Padilla, and many others helped shape the political landscape of Los Angeles and beyond, ensuring that Latino voices were heard and represented at every level of government. In addition to his political work, Mr. Acevedo has also made significant contributions to the healthcare field and real estate development. As CEO of American Health Care, he managed hospitals across southeastern Los Angeles and was appointed to President Clinton's Health Care Reform Initiative, advocating for better healthcare for the middle class. His leadership extended to the redevelopment of areas hardest hit by the 1994 earthquake, where he founded Neighborhood Empowerment and Economic Development to build affordable housing in the San Fernando Valley. James Acevedo's civic engagement did not end with his professional achievements. He founded Grapevine Development, where he continues to develop commercial and multifamily projects across California, always advocating for community stakeholders to have a voice in the development of their neighborhoods. James Acevedo has spent his life dedicated to creating opportunities for the Latino community, from his days organizing protests and voter outreach to his work as a political consultant and developer. His tireless commitment to civic engagement, social justice, and community empowerment has made him a true Valley Luchador for civic engagement. Madam Speaker, I personally also thank James Acevedo for taking an entire 6 months to never accept my answer of: ``No, I am not running for office.'' After 6 months of him approaching me and convincing me that I needed to be the first person from my community to be elected to high office, I went home to my wife, Norma--she didn't know any better--and she said: ``Yes. Why don't you do that?'' Twenty-eight years later, I was able to achieve that opportunity then, in 1996, to be the first State assemblyman Latino to represent the San Fernando Valley and then to join the city council, along with my good friend, now United States Senator Alex Padilla, and now I get to serve for 12 years in the United States Congress. Madam Speaker, I thank James Acevedo for not taking no for an answer. I thank him so much for helping so many of us to achieve what we did not see for ourselves, but what he saw in us to make sure that we can give back to our community. He deserves this recognition and much, much more. Honoring Xolo Mariduena

Mr. CARDENAS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the remarkable success story of Vallarta Supermarkets and the Gonzalez family, whose dedication and hard work have shaped this grocery store into a cornerstone of the Hispanic community throughout California. The Vallarta family's story begins in Jalostotitlan, Jalisco, Mexico, where Enrique Gonzalez, Sr., and his four brothers grew up on a small farm. Raised with a strong work ethic and a deep sense of family, they immigrated to the United States in the 1960s, seeking the opportunities this country promised. They worked in restaurants, from bussing tables to cooking, and saved every dollar they could with the hope of one day achieving the American Dream. That dream began to take shape in 1985 when Enrique Sr. opened the first Vallarta Supermarket in Van Nuys, California. What started as a modest 1,000-square-foot carniceria, with a small staff and weekly sales of only about $3,500, has since grown into a thriving supermarket chain with 53 supermarket locations across California and nearly 8,000 employees. From the very beginning, Vallarta Supermarkets distinguished itself by offering fresh, authentic Latin foods, catering to the growing Hispanic community that was often overlooked by larger grocery chains. The success of Vallarta Supermarkets reflects their family's commitment to service, integrity, and community. What began as a small family-run business is now a vital resource for thousands of families, offering not only groceries but also employment opportunities, career advancement, and community support. The Gonzalez family never forgot their roots or the values that brought them here, and they continue to give back to the community they serve. Through charitable donations, school partnerships, and support for local organizations, Vallarta has become a pillar of empowerment for those they serve. Madam Speaker, the Vallarta Supermarkets legacy is an inspiring testament to the strength of the Hispanic community and the power of perseverance. As Vallarta Supermarkets approaches its 40th anniversary, the family's dedication to customer service and quality products remains unwavering. Their continued commitment to enriching the lives of those in their communities is a shining example of the American Dream in action. It is with great pride that we honor the Gonzalez family and Vallarta Supermarkets as Valley Luchadores during Hispanic Heritage Month. Their journey is a reminder of the extraordinary contributions that Latino Americans have made and continue to make throughout our Nation. Honoring James Acevedo as a Valley Luchador

Mr. CARDENAS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a lifelong leader and advocate for community progress, Ruben Rodriguez, executive director of Pueblo y Salud, Inc., as a Valley Luchador. Mr. Rodriguez has been a steadfast advocate for more than 32 years, working to improve the social conditions of the Northeast San Fernando Valley and beyond. As the founding board president and current executive director of Pueblo y Salud, known affectionately as PyS, Mr. Rodriguez has been instrumental in shaping the organization's mission to address alcohol, drug, and tobacco abuse prevention, while also focusing on education and community strength. Headquartered in the Northeast San Fernando Valley, PyS has become a guiding force for those seeking better health policies, grassroots involvement, and social justice. Under his leadership, the organization has grown its reach, partnering with local hospitals and community organizations to tackle critical issues like COVID-19 mitigation, youth education, and environmental justice. Mr. Rodriguez's work goes far beyond the walls of Pueblo y Salud. He has been a founding member of the Los Angeles Drug and Alcohol Policy Alliance and the California Alcohol Policy Alliance. His leadership in these coalitions has been vital in shaping alcohol and drug prevention policies throughout California. He has also served as a member and board president of Alcohol Justice, an organization dedicated to holding the alcohol industry accountable for its impacts on our communities. In addition to his work in substance abuse prevention, Mr. Rodriguez has been an enduring advocate for social justice. He has spent decades fighting for better wages, equal access to education, Latino political representation, comprehensive immigration reform, and the removal of harmful substances from minority communities. His dedication to these issues has inspired countless individuals to join him in the fight for a more just and equitable society. As a proud husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Mr. Rodriguez has also made it his personal mission to raise a family of social activists. His daughter, Celeste Rodriguez, has followed in his footsteps, serving as the mayor of the city of San Fernando, further extending the legacy of community service and leadership that Mr. Rodriguez has cultivated. Madam Speaker, I have known Mr. Rodriguez since childhood and our families share decades of friendship. This connection has only strengthened our commitment to advancing the well- being of the people of the Northeast San Fernando Valley. As we honor Ruben Rodriguez during Hispanic Heritage Month, we recognize his lasting dedication to our community. His leadership at Pueblo y Salud, his advocacy for social justice, and his commitment to the health and well-being of our neighborhoods have earned him the title of a true Valley Luchador for community progress. Madam Speaker, I, once again, thank Ruben Rodriguez for his tireless work and for motivating future generations. Honoring the Remarkable Success Story of Vallarta Supermarkets and the Gonzalez Family

Mr. CARDENAS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a cultural gem in the Northeast San Fernando Valley, Tia Chucha's Centro Cultural and Bookstore. As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, it is fitting that we recognize the profound impact this institution has had on the arts, literacy, and cultural empowerment in our community. For over 23 years, Tia Chucha's has been a transformative force, providing a space where ancestral knowledge and creative expression intersect to enrich lives and foster growth in my district. Founded by renowned author Luis J. Rodriguez, cultural bearer Trini Rodriguez, and community activist Enrique Sanchez, Tia Chucha's emerged from a vision to address the neglect of a historically marginalized community. At a time when the Northeast Valley had no bookstores, art galleries, or cultural spaces, these three visionaries created a sanctuary for wellness, artistic expression, and empowerment. Inspired by the spirit and creativity of Luis Rodriguez's aunt, Maria de Jesus, affectionately known as Tia Chucha, this center has become a home for artists, activists, and community members alike. Tia Chucha's provides a wide range of free to low-cost programs, including visual arts, music, dance, creative writing, Mexica indigenous language and cosmology, healing arts, and more. Their intergenerational and bilingual programming is a lifeline for so many, offering opportunities to connect with culture, art, and community. Tia Chucha's is more than a bookstore; it is a source of inspiration and transformation for many. Their independent bookstore and small cross-cultural press, Tia Chucha's Press, continues to promote social activism and amplify voices that have been historically marginalized. Their commitment to making culturally relevant books accessible, representing stories by people of color, and supporting local authors is nothing short of remarkable. The mission of Tia Chucha's is deeply rooted in the belief that art and creativity are essential to the growth and healing of individuals and communities. By fostering a space where everyone can imagine, create, and express themselves, Tia Chucha's is improving the quality of life for future generations to come. As we honor the legacy and ongoing contributions of Tia Chucha's during Hispanic Heritage Month, we recognize that they are more than just a cultural center. They are Valley Luchadores for the arts, champions of social justice, and a testament to the power of creativity in bringing about positive change. Madam Speaker, I congratulate Tia Chucha's Centro Cultural and Bookstore on nearly 23 years of transformative work. I thank them for their continued dedication to the arts, literacy, and community empowerment. Honoring Lifelong Leader and Advocate for Community Progress, Ruben Rodriguez

Mr. CARDENAS. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize an extraordinary community leader, advocate, and changemaker, Michelle Fuentes Miranda, as a ``valley fighter,'' ``valley luchadora.'' As the founder and CEO of the Alliance for Community Empowerment, ACE, Michelle has dedicated over 30 years of her life to transforming the futures of at-risk youth and adults. Her unwavering commitment to justice, empowerment, and community building has made a profound impact not only in Los Angeles, but across California. Michelle's story is one of resilience and dedication. As a granddaughter of migrant farmworkers who became successful businessowners and community leaders in California's Central Valley, she was inspired by her family's legacy of service. She channeled that inspiration into her life's work, founding ACE in 2013 with a clear mission: to provide leadership development, education, and supportive services to high-barrier youth in some of the most underserved communities. Through Michelle's visionary leadership, ACE has grown to become essential in the San Fernando Valley, offering programs that change lives. One of her hallmark achievements is the YouthBuild leadership development program, which provides opportunity for younger individuals with hands-on vocational training and support services. ACE's innovative approach empowers young people to create meaningful change in their lives and their communities, breaking the cycles of poverty and violence that too often define their experiences. In 2023, recognizing a growing gap in housing for formerly incarcerated individuals, Michelle launched House of RUTH, which stands for resilience, unity, transformation, and hope. It is a transitional reentry house that provides a fresh start for those reentering society after incarceration. Her commitment to providing pathways to success for justice-impacted individuals through education, workforce development, and trauma- informed care has been a lifeline for many. Madam Speaker, Michelle Fuentes Miranda is a tireless advocate for justice, and her impact reaches far beyond the walls of ACE. As vice chair of the Cares First Community Investment Council, she advises Los Angeles County on alternatives to incarceration. Her expertise is also sought on the California DOJ Reentry Roundtable, where she continues to shape policies that promote rehabilitation and community resilience. Michelle's work has been recognized locally, regionally, and nationally. She has received numerous awards, including Woman of the Year in the 45th district of the California State Assembly, and the Human Rights Award from the California Association of Human Rights Organizations. Madam Speaker, Michelle Fuentes Miranda has dedicated her life to lifting others up while continuing to inspire generations to come. It is my honor to recognize her for her incredible community service during Hispanic Heritage Month. Honoring Tia Chucha's Centro Cultural and Bookstore

Mr. CARDENAS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary leader in education, Dr. Armida Ornelas, the president of the Los Angeles Mission College, as a ``valley fighter,'' ``valley luchadora.'' For nearly 30 years, Dr. Ornelas has been a tireless advocate for educational equity, ensuring that community college students, particularly from disenfranchised communities, have access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. Dr. Ornelas' journey is a testament to the transformative power of education. Raised in east Los Angeles by immigrant parents from Jalisco, Mexico, she grew up understanding the value of hard work and perseverance. A proud graduate of Garfield High School, Dr. Ornelas went on to pursue her undergraduate studies at UCLA, earning a double major in chicana and chicano studies and sociology. She continued her academic journey with a master's degree in public policy studies from the University of Chicago and later earned her doctorate from UCLA School of Education. Dr. Ornelas has had a successful and enduring career in Los Angeles' community college district. Dr. Ornelas served as a faculty member in political science and then served as the vice president of instruction at East Los Angeles College before becoming President at Los Angeles Mission College 3 years ago. Dr. Ornelas' leadership at Los Angeles Mission College has been pivotal. Her vision for the college goes beyond providing quality instruction. She understands that education is a tool that can transform lives and uplift entire communities. Under her guidance, the college has expanded its programs and services to ensure that students not only succeed academically, but are also prepared for the workforce and empowered to make meaningful contributions to their communities. Her dedication to economic and educational opportunities extends beyond the classroom. Dr. Ornelas serves on the boards of the Valley Economic Alliance and the Valley Industry and Commerce Association, where she continues to champion initiatives that improve access to education and job opportunities for low-income and underrepresented individuals. Madam Speaker, Dr. Armida Ornelas' work has touched the lives of countless students and families, giving them the tools to achieve their full potential. It is my honor to pay tribute to Dr. Ornelas for her tireless efforts in advancing education and recognize her as a ``fighter,'' ``luchadora'' during this Hispanic Heritage Month. In Recognition of Michelle Fuentes Miranda

Mr. CARDENAS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in appreciation of a great organization in my hometown of Pacoima, California, Champions in Service, and honor them today as ``valley fighters,'' ``valley luchadores.'' This organization is run by two incredible community leaders, whose tireless work has transformed countless lives in the San Fernando Valley and beyond, William ``Blinky'' Rodriguez and Bobby Arias. Together, they have embodied the essence of leadership and dedicated their lives to promoting peace, hope, and opportunity for the most vulnerable among us. In 1990, tragedy struck Blinky Rodriguez' family when his 17-year-old son, Sonny, was killed in gang-related violence. Faced with this devastating loss, Blinky could have turned inward. Instead, he channeled his grief into a powerful mission of peace. With unwavering faith and determination, Blinky helped broker the Valley Unity Peace Treaty, an agreement that significantly reduced gang violence in the San Fernando Valley, and he gained international recognition for it. In the years that followed, Blinky teamed up with Bobby Arias, an athletic director and educator with a deep passion for helping young people. Together, they founded Champions in Service, an organization committed to preventing gang violence, fostering community engagement, and creating opportunities for those caught in cycles of violence and poverty. Since 1993, Champions in Service has been a beacon of hope. Their street intervention team, made up of dedicated community intervention workers, is on the front lines of violence prevention. These individuals, many of whom have lived experience within the communities, mediate conflicts, reduce gang retaliation, and offer critical services, such as court advocacy, tattoo removal, and job assistance. These efforts have not only saved lives, but have given countless individuals a second chance. The work of Champions in Service goes beyond street intervention. Their comprehensive reentry program supports formerly incarcerated individuals as they reintegrate into society, providing everything from housing and employment assistance to educational opportunities and expungement support. They offer mentorship, job readiness programs, and vital mental health services, all aimed at breaking the cycle of violence and incarceration. Mr. Speaker, Bobby Arias, Blinky Rodriguez, and their entire staff are the very definition of Champions in Service. Their commitment to uplifting those who have been marginalized by poverty, addiction, and trauma is an inspiration. They understand that every individual, no matter their past, deserves the chance to rewrite their future. Through their work, they have helped countless individuals turn away from violence and toward a path of hope, education, and empowerment. As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, I honor the juvenile justice work of Champions in Service. In Recognition of Dr. Armida Ornelas

Mr. CARDENAS. Madam Speaker, on this important day of Hispanic Heritage Month, I rise to honor my friend, my colleague, and a true pioneer of Latino empowerment, Richard Alatorre. Richard Alatorre was born on May 15, 1943, in Boyle Heights, California, the son of Joe Alatorre, of El Paso, Texas, a repairman at a stove factory, and Mary Alatorre, of Arizona, a beautician. Richard and his sister, Cecilia, were brought up in East Los Angeles. Richard found his passion for politics and civil service very early in his life when he was class president at Garfield High School and volunteering on John F. Kennedy's Presidential campaign. Richard would also volunteer for Leopold Sanchez, who became the first Latino judge elected in California. Richard attended Cal State-Los Angeles, where he earned a B.A. degree in sociology. He would go on to earn his master's in public administration from the University of Southern California. Richard was a man of many hats and roles. He was a professor at Cal State-Los Angeles and UC-Irvine. He taught night courses at the Federal prison on Terminal Island, and he was the western regional district director for the NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund. During the 1968 Chicano walkouts and the 1970 moratorium, Richard fundraised bail money and advocated to the judges on behalf of the protesters who were arrested for a fairer bail arrangement. What do all these roles have in common? Richard had a gift to uplift the voiceless and the defenseless. Soon enough, Richard's community would see his ability and power grow, even more as he embarked on a career of elected public service. In 1972, at the age of 29, Richard Alatorre was elected to the California State Assembly, where he quickly moved up the ranks and became the Chair of the Committee on Ways and Means. During his time in Sacramento, he fought for farmworkers' rights, increased educational opportunities for migrant families, childcare for children with special needs, and the desperately needed prison reforms. Looking around the halls of Sacramento, Richard noticed that not a lot of people looked like him. He knew that the State's Latino community was immense, yet their representation in Sacramento was very minimal. Richard cofounded and was the first chair of the California Latino Legislative Caucus, which at the time had only five members. Today, because of his vision, we can proudly say we have 37 Latino State assembly members and State senators in Sacramento, California. He took it upon himself to increase Latino representation throughout all of California. When then-Speaker Willie Brown appointed Richard as chair of the 1980 election and reapportionment committee, Richard was able to gain an expertise on the Voting Rights Act. Richard set out to combat the discrimination in the halls of government, and he wanted to ensure Latino voices were heard through elected offices. He was responsible in overseeing the reapportionment of California legislative and congressional districts. Today, the State of California has 15 Congressional Hispanic Caucus members in Washington, and this is attributed to the foundation Richard Alatorre built. Richard had the foresight to believe in Latino representation, and he accomplished this in his own right. In 1985, Richard Alatorre made history once again when he was elected to represent the 14th District in the Los Angeles City Council. He would be the first Latino in nearly a quarter century to be elected to the city council. For his first task, he wanted to ensure there would be more Latino representation during the reapportionment process on the Los Angeles City Council. Richard Alatorre can be credited with increasing the number of two predominantly Latino districts that existed during his time, to the current five Latino district seats that the community has today. In addition, Richard ensured that Black representation was also present during his time, and he worked to strengthen the three council districts for the Black community. His work extended beyond just diversifying elected positions and districts. On the Los Angeles City Council, Alatorre was successful in diversifying the city's workforce, especially the Los Angeles fire and police departments, expanded city support for antigang programs, ensured Los Angeles County metro projects, such as the gold line, were started. He mentored countless people, not just in the east side of Los Angeles, but throughout California and the United States. Richard's unvarnished manner in expressing himself represented the authenticity and passion needed to push for Latino families in these halls of power. We unfortunately lost Richard last month on August 14, 2024. Richard was a man of the people. His funeral at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Los Angeles was attended by hundreds, from elected officials to businessowners, from members of academia to the working-class people from the east side he once proudly represented. As it was said by one of his former staffers at his funeral service: ``Richard didn't just see our potential, he nurtured it.'' This is who Richard Alatorre was: someone who saw our people's potential and moved mountains to help reach our full promise. These are powerful words for a powerful man. Richard deserves our recognition and our eternal gratitude. Assembly Member and Councilman Richard Alatorre is survived by his beautiful wife of 33 years, Angie; by their sons Derrick and Darrell; by their daughter Melinda; granddaughters Gabriela, Mariela, Daniela, and Kaycee; his sister, Cecilia; son-in-law, Patrick; daughter-in-law, Dayana; and his faithful Black Lab, Reggie. Gracias, Richard Alatorre, for being a mentor, a teacher, and, most importantly, a friend to so many of us. Honoring Champions in Service

Mr. CARDENAS. Madam Speaker, I rise today with deep gratitude to honor a remarkable woman and extraordinary leader, Kimberly Wyard, who is retiring after 50 years of service at Northeast Valley Health Corporation, NVEHC. Kim's tireless dedication has transformed NEVHC into a lifeline for countless families and individuals, particularly those in our most vulnerable communities. Kim joined NEVHC in 1974, just a year after the organization opened its very first health center in the city of San Fernando. In the five decades since, her vision and leadership have guided NEVHC's growth to 18 health centers, providing over 300,000 medical, dental, and behavioral health visits every year, as well as nine WIC sites serving more than 38,000 participants. What started as a single clinic has evolved into a vital network under Kim's unwavering commitment to providing care where it is needed most. As CEO since 1996, Kim has embodied the spirit of service, ensuring that low-income families, immigrants, and underserved communities have access to quality healthcare. Her leadership, compassion, and relentless drive have changed lives by giving hope and health to those who might otherwise go without. However, Kim's service wasn't limited to her role as CEO. She worked her way up from positions like director of the adolescent health program and clinic administrator, and she represented our community at the local and national levels, always advocating for more equitable healthcare access. Her heart has always been with the people she serves, and that love for her community has been the driving force behind any of NEVHC's success. Today, as she steps into a well-earned retirement, I thank Kim Wyard on behalf of so many for her lifetime of service. She has built a legacy that will continue to enrich the lives of people in our community long after her work is done. I thank Kim for everything she has done for the Northeast Valley Health Corporation and for the thousands of families whose lives she has touched. Her dedication, compassion, and leadership will forever be remembered. When I was a little boy, my family--my 11 brothers and sisters, my mother, and my father--used to go to NEVHC. That is where we got our healthcare. How the world turns and how it flows. I used to go visit NEVHC, and Kim was one of the people to receive me. Now that I am a Congressman and she has advocated not only for NEVHC but for healthcare for all, she has been someone who comes to my office to visit with me. I am grateful for Kim. May she retire and have a wonderful future in whatever she chooses to do. Honoring Richard Alatorre

Mr. CARDENAS

Mr. CARDENAS. Mr. Speaker, I have a motion to recommit at the desk.

Mr. CARDENAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to H.R. 8205, the so- called Keeping Violent Offenders Off Our Streets Act. While I have many concerns with this bill, my primary concern is that it was designed to target nonprofit bail funds, which help defendants who cannot afford bail themselves to obtain pretrial release, release that a court already determined to be appropriate. Research has found that socioeconomic inequity often makes it harder for people of color to afford bail and that they are more likely to receive higher bail amounts than their White counterparts. I will clarify that the color orange has never been considered a person of color. As a result, we find people of color in pretrial detention at disproportionately high rates, not out of being guilty, but, rather, due to poverty. Nonprofit bail funds work to address these disparities and increase fairness in our criminal justice system. Unfortunately, today's bill turns a blind eye to this and, instead, perpetrates the myth that bail reform has increased violent crime, which data consistently disproves. Understanding that, it should come as no surprise that the Keeping Violent Offenders Off Our Streets Act does nothing to address violent crime. Rather, the bill applies criminal penalties for misconduct that is already covered by Federal wire fraud and money laundering statutes, applies to any entity that posts bond, including noncriminal immigration bonds, and affirms a bail system that we know deepens inequity and cycles poverty. This bill is a distraction from the fact that, thanks largely to Democratic policies, violent crimes and homicides are down across our country. It is also a distraction from real bipartisan work that we could be doing to bring communities relief and perpetrators of violent crimes to justice. For this reason, at the appropriate time, I will offer a motion to recommit this bill back to committee. If the House Rules permitted, I would have offered the motion with an important amendment to this bill. My amendment would direct the Department of Justice to provide funding to State, Tribal, and local law enforcement agencies to hire, train, and retain detectives, investigators, and victim services personnel to investigate unsolved violent crimes. In recent years, the percentage of violent crime and homicide cases solved by law enforcement agencies has declined significantly across the country. To give a clearer picture of what that means, today, nearly half of murders in the United States go unsolved, depriving victims of healing and grieving families of justice. If Republicans truly want to address violent crime, this amendment would offer a solution by improving clearance rates for violent crimes, bringing perpetrators to justice, radically improving community safety, and enhancing supportive services for victims. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to insert the text of this amendment into the Record immediately prior to the vote on the motion to recommit.

Mr. CARDENAS. Mr. Speaker, I hope my colleagues will join me in voting for the motion to recommit.

Mr. CARDENAS

Mr. CARDENAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Graciela Casillas, ``The Goddess,'' a Hall of Fame fighter from Oxnard, California. Graciela is one of 11 children born to Mexican immigrants Roberto Casillas and Enedina Santana-Casillas. Graciela spent her formative years between Norwalk, California, where she attended school, and northern California, where her family worked in agriculture. Her journey in combat sports began when she decided to attend a tae kwon do self-defense class. It was there where Graciela became passionate about fighting. Her career in combat sports spanned from 1976 to 1986. In that time, she became a world champion. Graciela is the first American, man or woman, to become a world champion in two sports at the same time. She accomplished the feat when she won the World Women's Boxing Association and the World Kickboxing Association's bantamweight championships. Graciela retired undefeated in 1986. In 2023, Graciela was inducted into the National Boxing Hall of Fame. Graciela's parents instilled in their children the pursuit of higher education. Graciela was able to honor her parents by attaining her bachelor's and master's degrees. Today, after serving as the department chair of counseling at Oxnard College, she now balances her time between teaching as an adjunct and her martial arts pursuits like Filipino stick fighting. Graciela is a true warrior. Her fight today extends beyond the ring as she continues to fight on behalf of her community. Graciela was subjected to a double standard between men and women athletes. Graciela has always been a strong voice, speaking the truth, not only for women but for everyone. Graciela teaches self-defense classes to try to bring the lioness within out in women who would love to have more self-confidence and to be able to defend themselves in any situation. ``The Lioness Within'' is Graciela's mantra, and that is how Graciela has always carried herself, not only as a champion in the ring but as a champion for her community and for women. She continues to do many, many things for her community. Mr. Speaker, in the many years to come, we wish Graciela well in her continued fight to make sure that women and equality exist everywhere.

Mr. CARDENAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with deep gratitude to honor a remarkable woman and extraordinary leader, Kimberly Wyard, who is retiring after 50 years of service at the Northeast Valley Health Corporation, NEVHC. Kim's tireless dedication has transformed NEVHC into a lifeline for countless families and individuals, particularly those in our most vulnerable communities. Kim joined NEVHC in 1974, just a year after the organization opened its very first health center in the city of San Fernando. In the five decades since, her vision and leadership have guided NEVHC's growth to 18 health centers, providing over 300,000 medical, dental, and behavioral health visits every year, as well as nine WIC sites serving more than 38,000 participants every year. What started as a single clinic has evolved into a vital network under Kim's unwavering commitment to providing care where it is needed most. As CEO since 1996, Kim has embodied the spirit of service, ensuring that low-income families, immigrants, and underserved communities have access to quality healthcare. Her leadership, compassion, and relentless drive have changed lives by giving hope and health to those who might otherwise go without. Kim's service wasn't just limited to her role as CEO. She worked her way up from positions like director of the adolescent health program and clinic administrator, and she represented our community at the local and national level, always advocating for more equitable health access. Her heart has always been with the people she serves, and that love for her community has been the driving force behind NEVHC's success. Today, as she steps into a well-earned retirement, I thank Kim Wyard, on behalf of so many of us, for her lifetime of service. She has built a legacy that will continue to enrich the lives of people in our community long after her work is done. Mr. Speaker, I thank Kim for everything she has done for the Northeast Valley Health Corporation and for the thousands of families whose lives she has touched. Her dedication, compassion, and leadership will forever be remembered, even by my family. With 11 children, my parents used to go to Northeast Valley Health Corporation as well, way back about 50 years ago. Honoring Hall of Fame Fighter Graciela Casillas

Mr. CARDENAS

Mr. CARDENAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 6033, the Supporting Patient Education And Knowledge Act, which I am proud to co- lead with my Republican colleague from the other side of the aisle, Representative Steel, and several of my colleagues on both sides of the aisle. I am encouraged by this bipartisan effort and commitment to help ensure access to quality care across the United States. Clear communication between patients and providers improves critical health outcomes, helps prevent potentially deadly errors, and it is the cornerstone of our health system. As we continue the work to improve healthcare in America, we have a responsibility to all people in America, and this includes the 25 million people with limited English proficiency in the United States. A failure to address the challenges individuals with limited English proficiency face would impact the health of all Americans, complicating expansions of telehealth services, and leading to higher system costs. The SPEAK Act is a critical step in addressing these challenges. This legislation recognizes the diverse fabric of our Nation and fosters collaboration that is vital to guaranteeing our healthcare system meets the needs of all individuals. By bringing providers, physicians, hospitals, health insurance companies, language service providers, and patient voices to the table, we advance our shared goal of increasing access while helping patients feel secure and confident when they seek care. Helping providers communicate accurate health information to limited English proficient people benefits everyone. Ensuring telehealth advancements are accessible to limited English proficient people benefits everyone as well. Developing and implementing best practices to overcome barriers ensures that every individual, regardless of their linguistic background, receives the care they need and deserve. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague, Congresswoman Steel, for co- leading this bill, and I also would like to take an opportunity to thank all of the committee staff and the staff from all of our teams for all of the wonderful work that they put into not just this bill but the many bills we are discussing this evening. One of the things that frustrates me about being a Congressman is that beautiful moments like this when we come together and work on a bipartisan basis will never be seen on the news. If somebody gets into an argument with somebody in committee, they will carry that over and over and over, which leads the American people to believe we do not work together and that we do not care about everyone. Yes, we do. So, once again, I thank the chairwoman, the ranking member, and everyone on the committee for bringing these wonderful bills to the floor and the many bills we have yet to work on throughout the rest of this year. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote for this bill.