J. Correa

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Father Bill Cao, an Orange County Pastor who has dedicated his life in service to those around him. His impact on Orange County through his work as a pastor is felt throughout all corners of our community. Father Cao was born in Saigon, Vietnam a couple years prior to the Communist occupation. He, alongside his ten siblings, escaped Vietnam at a young age--destined for the United States to achieve greater opportunity and their American Dream. Filled with uncertainty but also faith, Father Cao and his family were among the countless thousands of Vietnamese refugees who fled on small rickety fishing boats to escape the turmoil of war, religious persecution, and uncertainty. Throughout the years, the Vietnamese community eventually found a home in Orange County, where Father Cao and his family eventually settled to lay the roots for their forever home. Bound together by the hardships they experienced, Father Cao and his family built a safe haven in a small pocket of central Orange County, now better known as Little Saigon. This community, which harbors the largest Vietnamese diaspora outside of Vietnam, is bonded by the trials and tribulations they faced, and they continue to be an integral part of why Orange County is home to the largest Vietnamese community outside of Vietnam. Father Cao used the promise of the American dream to further pursue an education here in the States. Father Cao proudly obtained his bachelor's degree, having later been selected to attend the American College and the Catholic University of Louvain, Belgium, further enriching his studies. Father Cao continues to embolden his local community and those around him through his spiritual teachings, where he is now Pastor for St. Anthony Mary Claret Catholic Church here in my hometown of Anaheim, California. Father Cao represents the best of America, using this country as an opportunity to rebuild, educate, and inspire himself and those around him. We thank him for his influence and endless service to all of us here in Orange County.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Consul of Mexico, Maxaira Baltazar, for her 20 years of leadership and experience in consular affairs and bilateral relations. Maxaira first began her career in Del Rio, Texas, where served as Consul for Protection and Legal Affairs, later being assigned to serve as Consul of Mexico for the Mexican Embassy in the Czech Republic. Upon her return to the United States in 2015, Maxaira completed a specialization in U.S. Legal Studies at The University of New Mexico's School of Law. Always striving for more, she went on to collaborate with the Federal Public Defender's Office and the criminal, family, and child legal divisions of New Mexico's Second Judicial District Court. As part of her specialization, she went on to develop guidelines for ways to assist nationals in child custody-related matters. Throughout her career, Maxaira has served the U.S. Department of State, where she took part in a U.S.-Mexico Consular Exchange program dedicated to providing international assistance for Mexican nationals during the tumultuous suspension of travel period caused by the COVID- 19 pandemic, drafting guidance for Mexican missions abroad during times of crisis. Most recently, Maxaira has served as Counselor for House Affairs in the Congressional Relations Office at the Mexican Embassy in the U.S. Now, Maxaira has assumed her current post as Consul of Mexico in Santa Ana, serving the Mexican-American communities in my home District and beyond. I ask my colleagues to join me in commending Maxaira for her 20 years of dedicated leadership and experience. We thank Maxaira for all that she does to protect, inform, and inspire our Nation's Mexican-American communities.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to congratulate my good friend Michael Hunn on his retirement from CalOptima Health as its CEO. Throughout his time at CalOptima, Michael expanded Medi-Cal services and increased community investment initiatives for our working families throughout Orange County. As CEO, Michael followed through with his commitment to supporting our most vulnerable populations by creating a safety net so they could receive the healthcare services that they deserve. Because of Michael's efforts, Orange County today is healthier, stronger, and more resilient than ever before. Mr. Speaker, I ask all of you to join me in congratulating Michael for his accomplishments and innovative leadership. Recognizing Bill Thompson of Orange County

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to recognize Orange County resident Bill Thompson for his generous contributions and support of Lestonnac Free Clinic. For years, Bill has worked with Lestonnac to provide critical healthcare for uninsured communities throughout southern California. With Bill's help and the help of other generous volunteers, Lestonnac has executed on its clear vision, expanding healthcare so that nobody goes without. Just last year, Bill worked with Lestonnac to open the Nation's first dedicated free surgery clinic, a groundbreaking initiative to provide life-changing procedures to veterans and others, no questions asked. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in thanking Bill for his commitment to helping our neighbors in need. Celebrating Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to celebrate Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva's 12-year career in the California State Assembly. Throughout her time representing north Orange County, she has led with vigor and determination and has set the standard for what it means to truly be a public servant. She supported our veterans, expanded affordable housing options, and secured millions of dollars for our working families here in Orange County. As she marks the close of a 12-year career in the California Legislature, Sharon will be leaving a legacy of hard work, partnership, and accomplishment that have strengthened our communities. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues today to join me in honoring Sharon Quirk-Silva's lasting impact on our communities. I thank Madam Quirk- Lady. Recognizing Dr. Ana Nogales

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Ana Nogales and her 30 years of leadership and service with Casa de la Familia. In 1996, Dr. Nogales founded Casa de la Familia with a vision of helping individuals heal their wounds of psychological trauma. Since then, Dr. Nogales and Casa de la Familia have followed through on that vision. From mental health services to stigma reduction, their work has impacted the lives of many here in California and Orange County. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Dr. Nogales and Casa de la Familia for 30 years of very important and critical work. We wish them another 30 years of success in Orange County. I congratulate and thank Dr. Ana Nogales and wish her a happy 30.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight Dukku Lee. Mr. Lee is retiring from his position as general manager of Anaheim Public Utilities, where he oversaw the electric and water utilities for over 350,000 residents, 15,000 businesses, and 25 million visitors annually. In his 33 years in the industry, Mr. Lee has guided major investments in Anaheim in groundwater treatment, underground power lines, new high- voltage substations, renewable resources, and the new Sustainability Education Center. Mr. Lee has made an immense improvement to the city of Anaheim, and I am proud to work with him and to see all of his accomplishments. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Dukku Lee and his 33 years of work for the good city of Anaheim. I congratulate Mr. Lee, and I look forward to continuing to work with him in his next career.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a truly remarkable woman on her 90th birthday--Irma Sarmiento. Irma Sarmiento was born on August 29, 1935, in La Paz, Bolivia. She has devoted nine decades to family, entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and service. As a successful business owner, she became a source of inspiration and support for many single mothers striving for financial independence and homeownership. Her commitment to her heritage and community is equally inspiring. She founded a Bolivian folkloric dance troupe and supported improvements to schools, a hospital, soccer fields, and the town square in Quime, Bolivia. Since 1986, she has also sponsored the Downtown Santa Ana Christmas Food and Toy Giveaway, touching the lives of thousands of local children and families. Together with her husband, Vicente Sarmiento, she raised three children--Daisy, Vicki, and Vicente--with a strong emphasis on education and opportunity. Today, she is blessed with six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. At 90, her greatest legacy is the countless lives she has touched through love, hard work, generosity, and service. Today, we celebrate her extraordinary life and wish her a very happy 90th birthday.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County in celebration of being named the Delhi Center's 2026 Heroe de la Comunidad. For decades, Second Harvest has stood as a beacon of compassion, ensuring that nutritious food reaches children, families, seniors, and individuals facing food insecurity throughout Orange County. Their work reflects a profound belief that a strong community is one in which neighbors care for one another and no family is left behind. Every meal provided, every family supported, and every partnership strengthened represents an investment in the health, dignity, and future of our community. Second Harvest embodies the heart and spirit of the Delhi Center's Zocalo dinner--a celebration of culture, connection, community, and service. With deepest gratitude, we honor Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County for its extraordinary service and enduring commitment to the well-being of our community.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of my very good friend, Chief John Welter, the 32nd police chief of my hometown, the city of Anaheim, California. Chief Welter made many contributions to the good people of Anaheim, including the creation of the department's first-ever chief advisory council. He also established the John Welter Family Justice Center to help those in need in the city of Anaheim. I also extend my deepest condolences to his spouse, Terri, and the whole Welter family in this very difficult time. I ask my colleagues today to join me in honoring John Welter's legacy of leadership, service, and his commitment to protecting the city of Anaheim that we call home.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize ``El Comandante'' Andres Hernandez for his extraordinary achievements as a community leader and band instructor for the youth of Santa Ana, California. Andres's story began in the Mexican state of Morelos, in the city of Zapatec. At just 8 years old, Andres became a flag bearer for his school, where he would later work his way up to joining the esteemed Benito Juarez High School marching band, and become commander or orders or ``El Comandante de Ordenes'' for a neighboring school in the same municipality. Andres's hard work and determination paid off, laying the foundation for him to become a marching band instructor for young folks. In 1998, Andres marked his formal beginnings as an instructor, where he taught the children of Cuahetomoc, Juan Jacobo Rousseau, and Benito Juarez respectively. Always striving for more, Andres formed the first marching band of the municipal police and the first ``Banda De Guerra'' for the municipality of Juarez Morelos. In June of 2009, Andres founded his own marching band in my home district, ``Banda de Guerra Osos de California''. This Santa Ana band prides itself on fostering cultural appreciation for the next generations of Mexican and Hispanic Americans. Under his leadership as Comandante, Banda de Guerra Osos has participated in various civic events across the Golden State, receiving well-deserved recognitions from the City of Santa Ana, Anaheim, and even countries across Latino- America. Andres's diligent work as a community leader caught my own eye, leading me to congressionally recognize him for his accomplishments. I ask my colleagues to join me in commending Comandante Andres for his exemplary leadership and mentorship for the next generations. Our community thanks Comandante Andres for leading by example.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Jovana Karnovic--a distinguished researcher whose life and work shaped the academic communities that have had the esteemed privilege of working with her. Jovana strived to make the world we live in a fairer and better place, dedicating her 35 years of life to continuous work, learning, and diligent research. Beyond Jovana's impressive professional and academic achievements, she was someone you could rely on. Jovana was not only a dedicated academic and researcher, but a loving partner, colleague, and friend to all those whom she left an impact on. At the age of 18, Jovana left her life in Northern Serbia and moved to the United States for a chance to achieve her American Dream. Jovana went on to attend Fullerton College, where she not only left a lasting presence on those around her but chose to thrive academically. Jovana left such an impact that, in 2012, she was named the college's top speaker and honored with a commemorative plaque in recognition of her lasting achievements. Jovana graduated from Fullerton college with honors. Following her graduation from Fullerton College, Jovana continued to fulfill her desire to learn, earning her BS, MS, and PHD degrees respectively. Soon after, Jovana founded `Reshaping Work', where she connected thousands of professionals and established 100+ partnerships around the globe. Jovana's legacy continues in the work and achievements that she poured her heart into, and the countless lives that she has touched. Jovana will be remembered as a shining light, who made it her mission to make those around her feel seen, uplifted, and inspired. Jovana's memory will live with us all. We thank her for a life filled with compassion, a willingness to learn, and dedication for helping those around her.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the contributions of Monica Garcia to California's 46th Congressional District. Monica Garcia is a native of the 46th Congressional District and a former team member of our Congressional District Office. Monica attended Valencia High School and graduated from Humboldt State University. Monica began her federal work with the Office of Congressman Lou Correa in February of 2022. She joined as a Congressional Caseworker overseeing and maintaining relationships with the federal agencies including the Social Security Administration, Internal Revenue Service, Postal Service, Small Business Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, and Department of Education. Through her diligent work and commitment to constituents she oversaw the return of $20.4 million back to the district and directly to constituents and small businesses. Monica also oversaw the citizenship fair events that provided the opportunity for constituents to receive guidance on filing out the N- 400 through the assistance of community volunteers and organizations. She maintained and developed strategic partnerships with community organizations such as Catholic Charities, Public Law Center, and the Council on American-Islamic Relations to make these citizenship fairs a reality in the district. Monica married her college sweetheart Gabriel Viramontes on October 20, 2025 in Las Vegas. Monica is moving on to work with the Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District. I wish her the best of luck and success on her next venture.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate Mr. Jaime Enrique Michel Velasco, and the Dulces de la Rosa company for their achievement of creating the world's largest mazapan. This sweet treat, which is made from ground peanuts and icing sugar, is widely enjoyed throughout Mexico and Latin America and traces its origins back to 16th Century Spain. Despite setting the previous Guinness World Record in 2018 in Guadalajara, Mexico, the Dulces de la Rosa team traveled to California aiming to make history once more. On October 25, 2024, 25 chefs arrived in the City of Santa Ana and proceeded to surpass the previous record. In just six hours, Dulces de la Rosa produced a mazapan that weighed over 23,000 pounds, and measured 11.8 feet in diameter and 5.2 feet tall. This event not only served as a momentous achievement for Dulces de la Rosa and their President, Mr. Velasco, but also as a tribute to the vibrant Mexican culture within the United States. Dulces de la Rosa partnered with ``Los 32 por Mexico y mas,'' a nonprofit dedicated to the preservation of Mexican art, culture, and traditions. This record-setting event acted as a celebration of the culture that unites many of the people in my district and Southern California. It brought together influential Mexican-American leaders, local dignitaries, Mexican officials, and most importantly the local community. Over the duration of the event, thousands of people gathered at Plaza de Las Banderas in Santa Ana to witness this achievement. I am proud that my district had the honor of hosting this event. Congratulations once again to Mr. Velasco and the Dulces de la Rosa company for achieving this historic milestone.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Alan Slater, whose 35 years of leadership have strengthened the Orange County Superior Court and promoted justice. As superior court executive officer, Alan prioritized the well-being of those who are too often overlooked by the justice system. Under his direction, partnerships with community groups and leaders created a bona fide safety net of legal aid and social services, ensuring all residents were able to access due process. As a visionary in court technology, Alan pioneered statewide models that expanded access to restraining orders, improved officer safety, and advanced transparency through open access to court records. His service reflects a deep commitment to public accountability and through good service to all people. Today, I ask my colleagues to reflect on how local leaders like Alan Slater strengthen our institutions and protect the rights of those who are most in need. Mr. Speaker, I thank Alan for his work.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Jerry Zomorodian and his late wife, Rebecca, Orange County residents who were deeply involved in our community. Jerry was born in Iran and later came to the United States in 1983 where he met Rebecca. They were married for 43 years before her passing in 2025. Through hard work, the two of them built a life together, owning and operating a small Persian restaurant. They were successful while staying true to their values. Jerry is proud to be an American. Rebecca was a devoted wife, loving mother, advocate for breast cancer awareness, and a philanthropist who helped her community. Rebecca courageously fought cancer for many years before it ultimately took her life. She was deeply involved in her community and will be missed by her family, friends, and all of us. Today, I ask my colleagues to recognize the life and legacy of Rebecca Zomorodian and honor the way she and Jerry helped our community.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize my good friend Peter DeMarco for his 25 years of service to the constituents of Orange County. Most recently, Peter served in the Orange County Executive Office, where he was the county's top, principal advocate at the California Legislature and U.S. Congress. Peter worked for Orange County residents to support funding for public safety, healthcare, housing, and veteran services. Now, Peter begins a new chapter of public service with Mesa Water District. On behalf of the people of California's 46th Congressional District and the people of Orange County, I congratulate Peter on his new position and wish him continued success in the future. I thank Peter.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to honor Major Antoinette Naddour, an Orange County resident, a veteran, and a person who spent her career serving the homeless and at-risk veterans. Antoinette began her career after witnessing a surge of servicemembers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan who were homeless. This motivated her to cofound a Veterans Legal Institute in Orange County where she focused on developing veteran-focused legal services. This month, she is retiring from her role as executive director of the Veterans Legal Services, but she will continue to make a difference in the lives of veterans serving as an ambassador and supporting fundraising efforts to ensure that our veterans receive the legal help that they deserve. Mr. Speaker, today, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Antoinette Naddour for the profound impact that she has made in the lives of our veterans.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the life and legacy of my very good friend, Federico Castelan Sayre, a lifelong activist and an accomplished trial attorney whose commitment to justice and public service is second to none. From an early age, Federico dedicated his life to serving our community. He organized demonstrations against the Vietnam war and helped establish free clinics throughout California. Despite being arrested, beaten, and intimidated, his courage never wavered. As a trial attorney, Federico carried that same courage into the courtroom, trying more than 200 cases to verdict. He also provided free legal services to United Farm Workers of California. He fought for victims of civil rights all over. As a proud Mexican American, Federico devoted himself to advancing opportunities and improving conditions for all. I thank Federico, my good friend, for his good work. He is not forgotten, and we will see him soon.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Vicky Torres on receiving her bachelor of science degree in nursing from Cal State Fullerton. Vicky was born in the city of Orange and raised in Santa Ana, where she was diagnosed with osteosarcoma at the age of 7. For over a decade, she fought through countless rounds of chemotherapy, surgeries, and rehab. The support and kindness she got from the medical teams inspired Vicky to pursue a degree in nursing. She enrolled at Santa Ana College's associate's degree program in nursing before transferring to Cal State Fullerton. Navigating college was hard enough, let alone doing it with multiple surgeries. Of course it was very hard, but her determination carried her through. I ask you today to join me in commending Ms. Torres for her accomplishments and for her degree. Recognizing Norma E. Martinez

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize Ms. Norma Martinez, superintendent of Centralia Elementary School District where she has been the superintendent since July 1, 2015. A graduate of my alma mater, Anaheim High School, Superintendent Martinez was named Superintendent of the Year by the 2026 Association of California School Administrators Region 17. For the past decade, she has led Centralia Elementary School District with strength and commitment to student success. I thank Superintendent Martinez for her support of her students, for her leadership, and for providing our children with an excellent education. Honoring the Service of Manuel Castruita Licerio

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the late Manuel Castruita Licerio, a member of the Greatest Generation, a proud World War II veteran, whose service reflects courage, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to our Nation. Manuel served in the U.S. Army during one of the most defining moments in our world history. Through his commitment and leadership, he rose to the rank of staff sergeant, earning the respect of those who served beside him. For his service, he was awarded the American Defense Service Medal, the World War II Victory Medal, and the Honorable Service Lapel Button. Today, let's pause to express our deepest gratitude not only for what he did in uniform but for the freedoms his service helped secure for generations to come. I thank Manuel for his service to our great Nation which will never be forgotten.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the legacy of the Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception and acknowledge their dedication to education, healthcare, and pastoral work, which has persisted through religious hardship and continued to sustain the values of consecrated life. June 13, 2026, signified the 100th anniversary of the Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception's mission in providing homes, education, and healthcare across the globe. The Congregdtion continues to extend its mission, addressing the needs of the communities they serve. We recognize the service of the Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception and their ongoing contributions to the reparation of society. By following the example of Saint Francis of Assisi-- especially in their contribution to their mission in the face of religious persecution--the Congregation embodies the effort inspired by the Holy Spirit that drives the Congregation. Their commitment to prayer, community, and service remains central to the Congregation and their work today. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception and honor their mission in maintaining housing and social outreach to their communities on this significant occasion celebrating 100 years of mission.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of my very good friend, Augustino Tran Cau, who passed away on June 7 in Anaheim, California, at the age of 80. Mr. Tran was a combat medic during the Vietnam war. Following the fall of South Vietnam in 1975, he was imprisoned in a political reeducation camp in Vietnam, but eventually escaped and later settled in Orange County, California, where he and his family built a new life and made southern California their home for almost 50 years. As a pharmacist, Mr. Tran dedicated his life to serving others through healthcare. He was actively involved with the Vietnamese- American community, advocating for democracy, freedom, and human rights for Vietnam. Augustino's legacy will live through his family. My thoughts and prayers are with them during this time.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the heroic efforts of our first responders in Orange County. Ten days ago, a call came in to the Orange County Fire Authority from a local industrial plant saying the facility was about to explode. Immediately, we evacuated 45,000 people from the blast radius. The Red Cross set up shelters. The city of Anaheim set up beds and food. The city of Stanton mobilized responders to evacuate the residents, and Garden Grove established a secure perimeter. There are heroes everywhere in our community. Many of the people who sprang into action are civil servants or volunteers who worked around the clock to make sure that everybody was safe on Memorial Day. I am grateful to all our emergency responders and for our friends and neighbors who helped out to make sure that not one life was lost. I thank our first responders, our volunteers, and our community members.