John Garamendi

Mr. GARAMENDI

Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise to recognize the contributions of June Mejias as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. June is a dedicated public servant and active member of the Benicia community. June's advocacy began with her efforts to understand the Crude by Rail issue and educate others on its importance to their region. She went on to serve on the Benicia Campaign Finance Subcommittee and meet with the Benicia Open Government Commission. She has served for many years with the League of Women Voters and would often volunteer to visit high schools and help register eligible students to vote. She was also selected by the City Council to serve for 3 years on the Benicia Parks and Recreation Commission. June continues to engage with all levels of government, advocating for issues that impact not only her, but the community at large. She consistently ensures that her voice and those of her peers continue to be heard. June is a role model of civic engagement for anyone looking to have an impact on the policies that impact them. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize June Mejias for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. GARAMENDI

Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Karen Freeman as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Karen has spent the last five years establishing herself as a key leader in our community, after completing her studies in Leeds, England. Apart from upholding her duties as a priest at Grace Episcopal Church, she has devoted her time to several causes in the community. Primarily, she hosts regular neighborhood clean ups, an event at the annual National Night Out, and a health fair for the sake of keeping her neighbors and fellow community members informed. Karen has been described as an objective, well-prepared, spirited leader; these attributes are especially exemplified by her work with other local organizations. She works with Epiphany Church in Vacaville to prepare lunch for the unhoused and has led efforts to partner with Fairview Elementary School to provide school supplies, snacks, teacher breakfasts, and more. Her leadership, extensive acts of service, and immense contributions to the community are just some examples of how Karen continues to make a lasting impact in our district. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Karen Freeman for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. GARAMENDI

Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Katrinka Ruk as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Katrinka is a dedicated and passionate leader who has touched the lives of countless members of her community. Katrinka is described as a Bay Area native who has made a career out of improving the lives of working people. Professionally, she spent years working in the field of human resources as an HR Director for Geyser Peak and a global pharmaceutical company, and Regional HR Director for TriNet where she supported the growth of startups into thriving organizations. Katrinka has also helped grow the economy of Contra Costa County by serving for 20 years as director for the West Contra Costa Council of Business and Industries. Katrinka has also extensively given her time as a board member for Canine Guardian Assistance Dogs, an organization connecting fully trained service dogs with veterans who suffer from PTSD. She also served on the East Bay Board of the YMCA where she supported social programs and reviewed potential grants for the organization. Katrinka's years of work and volunteerism will be felt throughout Contra Costa County for years to come. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Katrinka Ruk for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. GARAMENDI

Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Major Kayleigh Migaleddi as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Kayleigh serves as the interim Chief for the 60th Air Mobility Wing Commander's Action Group and a Flight Nurse Evaluator for the 60th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron at Travis Air Force Base. From her first assignment at Nellis Air Force Base as a clinical nurse in the inpatient setting, to her current position where she is responsible for local and regional partnerships for twenty-eight thousand personnel, Major Migaleddi has proven that her leadership and exceptional dedication is unmatched. During Operation Allies Refugee. she was the Aeromedical Evacuation Team Lead at Hamid Karzai International Airport. where she and her team responded to the deadly Abbey Gate bombing in Kabul. Following the experience of seeing her fellow medics through this tragedy, she resolved to change the trajectory of training and mission readiness to better prepare her peers for combat operations. Kayleigh has also amassed 720 flight hours and 104 combat flight hours in Operations Enduring Freedom and Inherent Resolve and contributed vital efforts in the execution of the largest and fastest aeromedical evacuation movement in modern history. Under Kayleigh's leadership, her team won Team of the Quarter twice. Group Airmen of the Year, Squadron Aeromedical Technician Instructor of the Year, and her troop was selected to commission into the Interservice Physician Assistant Program. Kayleigh has also played a crucial role in coordinating countless events at Travis Air Force Base including the Warrior Event. Gold Star Family Ruck, and POW/MIA Week. Kayleigh is a valuable part of the Travis team, as well as the larger Solano Community. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Major Kayleigh Migaleddi for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. GARAMENDI

Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Eleanor Thompson as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Eleanor has been an active member of her community for over fifty years and continues her work volunteering with her church and youth throughout Richmond. She founded Social Progress Inc. and ran a Youth Resource Center that served 30 young people in the community. While serving as the CEO of Social Progress Inc, she ensured that young men living in the Iron Triangle were able to safely get to school by driving them herself. Over the years, Eleanor has distributed hundreds of backpacks, toys, and scholarships to youth in need. She also founded the yearly Fourth of July Parade and Festival in Richmond that serves to bring the community together. She is passionate about pushing for change regarding homelessness and public safety and has been awarded for her community leadership with the Richmond Police Commission, the Anti-Drug Task Force, Parks and Recreation Commission, the Crime Prevention Team, and the 7th Street Crime Watch Team, among others. Eleanor is a shining example of a compassionate and dedicated community leader. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Eleanor Thompson for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. GARAMENDI

Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Colonel Elizabeth Aptekar as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Elizabeth serves as the Commander of the 60th Mission Support Group at the 60th Air Mobility Wing at Travis Air Force Base. She leads a 1,900-member group that provides support to three wings and more than fifty mission partners. Her team rapidly mobilized support for 104 nations, readied 3,000 missions, and executed 2,000 deployments and seven Presidential Support packages which empowered six Combatant Commands to enable diplomatic and economic ties globally. Locally, she oversaw 54 construction projects totaling $137 million which facilitated the KC-46 aircraft activation at Travis Air Force Base. She also guided a $208 million Defense Health Agency contracting transition strategy for the Air Force's largest hospital, saving $48 million and harnessing $15 million for other critical priorities. She also leveraged Defense and hybrid energy initiatives positioning $20 million toward alternative energy, fuel resources, and electric vehicle infrastructure. Elizabeth has also worked to integrate Travis AFB with the surrounding community, organizing meetings between base and city leaders and fostering support for initiatives focused on infrastructure and quality of life improvements. Demonstrating her commitment to Airmen, her team's 90 percent execution rate of resiliency funds was No. 1 in the Air Force, ensuring Team Travis Airmen and Families across 77 units were immersed in surrounding community activities. Elizabeth's work has improved quality of life for all members of the Travis AFB community, and her engaged leadership, service to others, and commitment to excellence is noted and celebrated. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Elizabeth Aptekar for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. GARAMENDI

Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Jameelah Hanif as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Jameelah is a community organizer, family advocate, and champion for children. She is the Founder, CEO, and Executive Director of Watch Me Grow, Inc, a non-profit organization that provides resources and training for parents. Jameelah facilitates the Parent Leadership Training Institute to help parents advocate for their children and families. She has been a small business owner for 10 years, providing quality childcare and family services to over 150 children. Jameelah has also been the Chair of the Solano County Local Child Care Planning Council and the Solano County Licensed Family Child Care Association. She has a degree in Child Development and Family Services, and completed the Solano County Parent Leadership Training Institute, Leadership Vallejo, and EmergeCA programs. Since the beginning of 2022, Ms. Hanif has organized monthly youth-led community clean-ups to expose our youth to community service and to develop community pride, attracting over 350 participants. Ms. Hanif is currently the Vallejo leader of All Children Thrive California initiative, a community-led movement working towards creating protective community environments that allow all children to thrive. Jameelah has been a strong voice for children and families in Vallejo and with her passion for this work she will continue to expand her advocacy locally and regionally. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Jameelah Hanif for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. GARAMENDI

Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Elizabeth Hoffman as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Elizabeth is the Executive Director of Rebuilding Together Solano County, an organization that provides home rehabilitation services and hosts community volunteer workdays. Her tireless work has improved the quality of life for low-income families, veterans, and disabled individuals in our district. She coordinates thousands of volunteers who help build low-income housing and community centers. This year, she has led home improvement efforts to help low-income communities and veterans' widows. She helped distribute over 2,000 Disaster Safe at Home Kits to low-income veterans, seniors, and disabled households. Elizabeth partnered with local government and community volunteers to install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, assemble raised garden beds, and distribute more than 950,000 pounds of food. Her dedication to helping low-income individuals, veterans, seniors, and disabled residents throughout Solano County is unparalleled. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Elizabeth Hoffman for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. GARAMENDI

Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Janet Scoll Johnson as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Janet is an active and determined community advocate for environmental justice. She has served in many roles as part of her advocacy and community service. She has served for nine years as the co-coordinator of the Sunflower Alliance, which works to protect the health and safety of all Bay Area communities affected by toxic pollution and climate change. Janet also served for four years as the co-chair of the Richmond ShorelineAlliance. She has advocated for a full cleanup of toxic sites, for the preservation of Point Molate, and for public awareness of the dangers of sea level rise. Janet was a member of the Richmond-San Pablo AB-617 Community Air Monitoring Steering Committee and a lead organizer for No Coal in Richmond, a grassroots organization that works to prevent coal and petroleum coke from being shipped through the Levin-Richmond Terminal in an effort to prevent toxic dust from contaminating local air, water, and soil in nearby neighborhoods. Thanks to Janet's successful advocacy, a land-use ordinance to phase out a coal and petroleum coke handling and storage at a private terminal in the Port of Richmond was passed. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Janet Scoll Johnson for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. GARAMENDI

Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker pro tempore, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Donna Ebert as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. As an active Ambassador to the Fairfield-Suisun Chamber of Commerce, Donna has led teams of local business leaders to forge connections with one another. Donna has also been key player in organizing the chamber's ``lunch mob'' where member businesses host chamber members and help substantially increase the revenue of the businesses. Donna is also involved with the Travis Regional Armed Forces committee where she is committed to improving the lives of the men and women serving at Travis Air Force Base. She supports Air Shows, golf tournaments, and the many other events that benefit the base and surrounding community. Donna also serves her community as an active member of Solano County Soroptimist International helping to support women through education, empowerment, and opportunity. Donna's enthusiasm, hard work, and dedication to serving her community serve as an inspiration to all her peers. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Donna Ebert for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. GARAMENDI

Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker pro tempore, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Assemblymember Buffy Wicks as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. A talented public servant and campaigner, Buffy has served as an Assemblymember for California's 14th Assembly district since she was elected in 2017. During her time in the California State Assembly, one of Buffy's major missions has been tackling California's housing crisis. In her first year as Housing Chair, she championed AB 2011 as well as legislation such as her ``Yes in God's Backyard (YIGBY) Bill'' which allows churches to build affordable housing in empty lots near their church buildings. Buffy Wicks' career in politics began when she organized anti-Iraq War protests and worked for Howard Dean's 2004 campaign. She also worked on both of Barack Obama's successful campaigns in 2008 and 2012 and went on to work in the White House where she was the Deputy Director of the Office of Public Engagement. Buffy is a relentless public servant and advocate for families and let her own lived experiences as a working mother inspire her fight for others. She highlighted and platformed important issues such as family leave and gained the support and sympathy of parents nationwide. Buffy's commitment to her constituents and the well-being of Californians knows no bounds. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Buffy Wicks for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. GARAMENDI

Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker pro tempore, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Judge Diana Becton as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Diana Becton has been Contra Costa County's District Attorney since her 2017 swearing in. Diana is the first woman, first African American, and first woman of color to serve in the role since its creation in 1850. This accomplishment alone shows the historical impact she has had on her community. For 22 years Diana, served as a judge in Contra Costa County where she was elected and became president of the National Association of Women Judges. She is known not only for upholding the law and holding people accountable, but also for striving to improve Contra Costa County's judicial system by focusing on disrupting the school to prison pipeline, creating safe alternatives for low-level non-violent offenders, and addressing the mental health needs of our community. She created the Reimagine Youth Justice Task Force to create alternatives to juvenile hall for young offenders and has made efforts to curb racial bias in her department by partnering with the non-profit Vera Institute of Justice to evaluate her office's decision making. Diana's accomplishments in the judiciary are too enumerable and impressive to list briefly as she is truly a pillar of her community and a testament to the excellence found in our district. Diana, far from doing business as usual, has aimed to fundamentally change many aspects of our often- harsh criminal justice system to decrease bias and fulfill its duty to serve justice. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Diana Becton for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. GARAMENDI

Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker pro tempore, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Debra Mason as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Debra is the current Executive Director of the Bay Point Community Foundation and the Bay Point Municipal Advisory Council, where she has served for many years. Over the years, she has worked for after-school programs and served on the Mt. Diablo School Board, and today she continues to be a fierce advocate for students, parents, schools, and her community. She has pushed for public safety, nutrition assistance, after school education, and community engagement in schools. Continuing her work with education, she is also a California School Age Consortium Board Member. Her dedication, service, and work ethic has been an invaluable benefit to the local community. One example of a lasting impact that she has made on the community is establishing the Bay Point Branch of the Contra Costa County Public Library. Debra has been committed to addressing issues that she cares about and is always willing to take action and help others. Debra has been involved with countless community offices and committees where her leadership has improved our local schools and broader community. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Debra Mason for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. GARAMENDI

Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker pro tempore, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Technical Sergeant Callie Aberin as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Callie enlisted in the United States Air Force in 2012 and now serves as a Technical Sergeant at Travis Air Force Base. She was selected as a Senior Instructor at the Air Mobility Command's largest Airman Leadership School, where she educates, mentors, and certifies front- line supervisors on leadership skills, interpersonal skills, and behavioral theory. Her leadership in these positions have fortified strategic objectives in the personnel of Travis AFB. In addition to her official duties, Callie serves as the local Air Force Sergeant's Association Chapter President, and advocates for improved quality of life and economic fairness for all military personnel. Under her leadership, this organization surpassed membership goals by 217 percent. This community service has extended beyond Travis AFB and into the surrounding community where she has helped raise money for causes such as the Solano County Law Enforcement Torch Run and the Special Olympics. Callie was recognized as an NCO of the Year for the 60th Air Mobility Wing, Travis AFB Instructor of the Year in 2022, and ASFA's 2023 International NCO of the Year. Callie's dedication to her community and her country deserves recognition, as she goes above and beyond her official responsibilities to advocate for military personnel. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Callie Aberin for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. GARAMENDI

Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker pro tempore, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Cheryl Sudduth as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional Districts Women of the Year. Cheryl is involved with numerous organizations that aim to improve the status of marginalized people in her community. As a Senior Director for Goodwill's AbilityOne program, she oversaw the building of thousands of fair housing units in Alameda County. Through this program, Cheryl also created programs that employ and train thousands of people who are traditionally excluded from the job market. Veterans, disabled individuals, formerly incarcerated people, and people returning to the workforce have benefitted from Cheryl's work. She has also been involved with Alliance 4 Girls, a local program providing mentorship to young girls to give them a space to grow and thrive. Through this program and others, Cheryl has personally mentored hundreds of girls in her community. In addition, she has served on a variety of boards and commissions, including the West County Wastewater District, Contra Costa Racial Oversight Body, ACLU, and NAACP. She also gives her time to a variety of organizations, ranging from racial justice, education, the environment, public safety, and much more. She has received numerous awards and recognitions for her considerable contributions to the community at-large. Cheryl's commitment to her community and improving all different aspects of public life serves as an inspiration to all who know her. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Cheryl Sudduth for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. GARAMENDI

Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker pro tempore, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Mayor Catherine Moy as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Cat is a dedicated public servant who has offered years of service to her community. A Fairfield native, she stepped up to serve on the Fairfield City Council in 2008, following a career as a journalist. Cat's work on the City Council, and current service as Mayor, have helped make life better for the residents of Fairfield, including through reducing gang violence and working to address homelessness. As a member of the National Conference of Mayors, Cat serves on a task force aimed at finding solutions to homelessness for populations in need across our county. In addition to her work as an elected official, Cat offers her own time in service to her community. She has been involved with countless organizations serving youth and those in need, including Girls of the Run, Boy Scouts, and local youth sports programs. Cat also makes a point of reaching out to those living in homeless encampments, helping them to find the support they need while working toward a more permanent solution. She is an impactful leader who has offered her time and resources in service to her community. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Mayor Catherine Moy for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. GARAMENDI

Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker pro tempore, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Courtney Tindall as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Courtney serves as a Senior Dependency Drug Court Case Manager for the Solano County Superior Court. In this role, she advocates for those who suffer from substance use disorder and has graduated hundreds of parents who have regained custody of their children. She is committed to helping those struggling with substance use disorder become sober and better their lives. Every day, she displays compassion and empathy as she advocates for children and families. Courtney has an unfailing commitment to her work and to reuniting families. She has received numerous awards for her work, including the Superior Court of California Customer Service Award, the California Bar Association Court Staff Award, the Child Abuse Prevention Council Henry Bergh Award for Practitioner of the Year, and Henry Bergh Award for Outstanding Contributions in the Dependency Drug Court and Support of Child Abuse Prevention, Intervention, and Treatment Efforts, The work Courtney does has touched the lives of countless vulnerable individuals and helped them make change for the better. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Courtney Tindall for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. GARAMENDI

Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker pro tempore, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Ebony Antoine as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. As a victim of gun violence herself, Ebony founded a nonprofit, Broken By Violence, to help families like hers heal after being impacted by gun violence. Broken By Violence has provided services to hundreds of families, including rental assistance, food assistance, emergency housing, mental health service referrals, and monthly healing spaces for survivors. She has worked with Solano Family Justice Center, the Vallejo Police Department, the City of Vallejo, and the Alameda County District Attorney to provide victims services and has also advocated for legislation that would better support survivors throughtout California. Although her life was irrevocably changed by tragedy, through her strength and determination, she became a beacon of hope for others. Her resilience and dedication to serving others is an inspiration to all who meet her. She truly embodies the values of a woman of courage by showing kindness, wisdom, humility, and compassion. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Ebony Antoine for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. GARAMENDI

Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker pro tempore, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Claudia Jimenez as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Claudia has dedicated her life to serving the community of Richmond and is a current member of the Richmond City Council, serving the 6th District. As such, she is not only a proponent for positive social change but also a leader in her community. She has worked throughout her city to bring about transformative programs in areas such as affordable housing and homelessness. Claudia is known for forging alliances between key stakeholders across diverse communities. Her background as an immigrant from Colombia has helped shape her motivations as a community organizer. Trained as an architect in Colombia, she moved to Richmond in 2009, took English language classes, did volunteer work to practice her skills, and earned a Master of Environmental Planning from UC Berkeley. Claudia accomplished all this while caring for two children and still found time to lead campaigns and volunteer with other mothers in her neighborhood. Now as a Richmond City Councilmember, she is even more committed to improving the lives of those in her community and making Richmond one of the more affordable places to live in the Bay Area. Her commitment to her community and improving all different aspects of public life is an inspiration to all who know her. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Claudia Jimenez for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. GARAMENDI

Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Anjali Rimi as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Anjali is a dedicated leader, activist, and community member. As a transgender immigrant from South Asia, Anjali has overcome many challenges while continuing to give back to her communities. As one of the co-founders of Parivar Bay Area, Anjali has transformed the services available for transgender, gender non-conforming, and intersex immigrants from the Global South. Parivar Bay Area emerged from earlier grassroots organizing, including a project that redistributed almost $1 million worth of food, housing funds, and livelihood grants for transgender South Asians to open their own businesses. In addition to her work globally, Anjali is deeply involved in LGBTQ+ activism in the Bay Area, through fundraisers, arts and cultural showcases, and social support group meetings. She was the first South Asian transgender person to be recognized for her LGBTQ+ activism in the California Legislature and has also received recognition from former Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Anjali has accomplished all of this while remaining a kind and patient person and serving as an inspiration to others for her dedication to serving her community and improving the status of marginalized groups. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Anjali Rimi for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. GARAMENDI

Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Amy Fabi as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Amy has served her community of Solano County in a profound and meaningful way. Early in her career, she worked tirelessly to provide advocacy and academic support to Asian American Pacific Islander, Latinx, and African American families in the East Bay. Working with diverse communities led her to her current role as Commissioner with First 5 Solano where she works to ensure a solid foundation for all children. Amy graduated from UC Berkeley and received her master of social work from San Francisco State University. As a licensed social worker, she has seen the impact of trauma on childhood development and the importance of support services for vulnerable youth. Inspired by those she meets through her work, she advocates tirelessly for all children to have access to opportunities that will allow them to achieve their fullest potential. Beyond her professional work, Amy is a member of the board for the Vacaville Police Activities League, scholarship chair for the Chinese American Association of Solano County, and internship chair for the Solano County Asian American Pacific Islander American Public Affairs Association. She has earned numerous awards for her volunteerism throughout the community and her commitment to serving others inspires all who know her. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Amy Fabi for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. GARAMENDI

Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Audrey Cormier as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Audrey is a community volunteer who is dedicated to advocating for youth and women of color. She is passionate about STEM education, diversity, climate advocacy, and golf, and has organized many events for underrepresented groups based on those interests. As a member of Easter Hill United Methodist Church, she organized a trip for church youth to attend STEM days at Lawrence Livermore Labs, a Federal research facility. She also coordinated the attendance of five African-American sixth grade girls at a STEM conference at St. Mary's College. Audrey's love of golf has led her to serve on several boards and organizations, including those that expose youth and African-American women to the sport. She founded a weekly Zoom session for women to discuss their golf journeys and provide support for each other, showing the impact of her love of golf on her community. Audrey is also passionate about the positive impact diversity has on an organization and the importance of creating inclusive spaces. During her 30-year career at Chevron, Audrey served as the Manager of Diversity and Inclusion, where she was responsible for developing workplace inclusion strategies and mentorship programs. As an active alumna of Auburn University, she is also a member of the college's Advisory Board for the Office of Inclusion, Equity, and Diversity. Audrey's dedication to her community and work to advocate for youth and women of color cannot be overstated. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Audrey Cormier for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. GARAMENDI

Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Barbara Brewer as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Barbara retired from the United States Air Force after 20 years but continued her service as a civilian employee and is now a Unit Program Coordinator in the 21st Airlift Squadron at Travis Air Force Base. In addition to her official duties in this role, Barbara selflessly volunteers for more responsibilities, including Security Program Manager, Paying Agent, and Resource Advisor. She has been essential to the squadron's success and is fondly referred to as ``Squadron Mom.'' Barbara is the liaison between the aircrew, government travel agencies and foreign embassies, ensuring rapid travel in support of USTRANSCOM operations. Her actions have directly contributed to the success of over 5,000 flight hours, 1,300 sorties, and 7 million pounds of cargo successfully delivered to meet our Nation's priorities. Every member of her squadron knows they can rely on Barbara regardless of time or day or the reason for the call, because she shows unfailing care for every servicemember. Barbara was chosen as an Assistant Mission Commander for the Capstone Military Leadership Program where she manages the development of over 50 Generals and Flag Officers. On one mission she was asked to speak about her experiences as a woman in the military with the women of the Zambian Air Force, a country where women were historically excluded from service. Barbara's 35 years of service to our country have led to a profound impact on her squadron. Travis AFB, and beyond. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Barbara Brewer for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. GARAMENDI

Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Brenda Plechaty as she is a honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Brenda's life was changed when her partner had a serious accident resulting in a traumatic brain injury. During his recovery, Brenda experienced the lack of support there is for the family members of those who have traumatic brain injuries. This led Brenda to create, run, and fully fund a free support group for family members who are caregivers to TBI survivors. Brenda is dedicated to this group and helping the caregivers of TBI survivors, making herself available to caregivers every day, not just during the group's monthly meetings. Brenda's work for this group has led her to become fully immersed in the TBI community, willing to share information and provide support whenever possible to those who have been impacted by TBI. In addition to her work supporting caregivers, Brenda serves on several commissions and committees in the city of Vallejo and is actively working with the city to improve the Vallejo Municipal Marina. A passionate rower, Brenda is involved in her rowing club's volunteering division and helped to create a summer youth rowing project that included instruction on the importance of the marina. All facets of Brenda's work show her compassion and dedication to serving others. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Brenda Plechaty for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. GARAMENDI

Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Alice Wilson-Fried as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Alice is dedicated to teaching the youth of Solano County about the importance of democracy and civic engagement. Seeing the need to educate young people about voting rights and civic duty, Alice implemented the Democracy Matters program at Golden Hills Community School. This curriculum gives students the opportunity to learn about the importance of democracy and its impact, allowing students to see themselves as leaders with a voice in the policy process. The importance and impact of this program has been recognized by the California Secretary of State, who is in discussions to use it in their statewide youth outreach efforts. Through the framework of Democracy Matters, Alice has given students hands-on experiences with civic engagement, including coordinating a mock City Council meeting in the Suisun City council chambers and training students on how to conduct a forum with Solano Youth Council. She also worked with the Solano County Registrar of Voters and League of Women Voters to train students who volunteered as poll workers. These hands-on opportunities have allowed students to learn about the importance of citizenship and the power of their voices in our democracy. Alice's work to educate the next generation about democracy will have an impact for years to come. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Alice Wilson-Fried for her positive contributions to our community.