Jerry McNerney

Mr. McNERNEY

Mr. McNERNEY. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing my Chief of Staff, Nicole Damasco, for her outstanding commitment and dedication to serving California's 9th Congressional District, the former 11th Congressional District of California, the great state of California, and our country. Nicole is one of the most exceptional staff members, leaders, and public servants that I have had the pleasure of working with, and it has been an honor to have had her leading my staff for the past 16 years during my time in Congress. Nicole was born in Las Vegas, Nevada, and grew up wanting to make positive change in her country and the world. Her father and stepmother, Jude and Julia Damasco, instilled in her a strong work ethic and the importance of serving the community and those in need, and she credits her grandmother, Maria Damasco, for being an inspiration in her life and always being there for her. Throughout high school, she spent time registering voters in San Francisco and the Bay Area and volunteering for the San Francisco Democratic Party. Although she is a talented artist and studied architecture in Italy during college, she felt the best way to make a difference in her community was to pursue a career in public service. She transferred to University of California, Santa Cruz to pursue a degree in Politics. While there, she interned for the Santa Cruz County Women's Commission for 2 years and participated in the University of California, Washington DC (UCDC) program, interning in Senator Barbara Boxer's Washington, DC office. After graduating from University of California, Santa Cruz in 2002, Nicole was hired as a Constituent Representative in Senator Barbara Boxer's office in San Francisco. She proved to be a skilled and dedicated employee and was soon promoted to Assistant to the Director of Constituent Services. In 2004, she became a Legislative Correspondent in Senator Boxer's Los Angeles office and was part of a team that changed how legislative correspondence was handled by transitioning to a centralized, digitized, state-based constituent correspondence system. It was an innovative approach that allowed the Senator to quickly receive and send constituent responses. Nicole did not know it at the time, but her team helped lay the groundwork for how state and district-based constituent correspondence is now handled in many congressional offices. In 2006, Nicole returned to the Bay Area and continued to work in Senator Boxer's San Francisco office. During that time, she volunteered for my Congressional campaign because she felt that I could truly help improve the lives of people in our community. Thanks to the hard work by many excellent staff and volunteers like Nicole, I was elected to Congress that same year, and I asked Nicole to join my team as my Director of Constituent Services and Field Representative. Nicole went to work right away, laying the foundation for and building my casework, field outreach, and constituent services programs from the ground up. She made it her mission to make sure that everyone who reached out to my office for assistance would receive the best service possible. She ensured that quality constituent service was engrained in the culture of my office. Thanks in large part to her tireless efforts, I am proud to say that my office has helped many thousands of individuals over the years. It was clear that Nicole was a natural leader when I hired her, and I promoted her to District Director in less than a year of her being on my staff. She took over, leading my entire District team at a time when people in the country and my district were hurting the most. During the subprime mortgage crisis in 2008, people were losing their jobs, homes, and lifesavings. Continuing to lead with a constituent-focused approach to her work, Nicole put together a team that would be laser focused on serving the people of California's 11th and 9th Congressional Districts throughout those difficult times. She immediately acted to help organize the first-of-its-kind housing and mortgage assistance events in the country with the purpose of keeping people in their homes. She also helped organize job fairs and events that connected thousands of people with jobs, and made sure struggling veterans and seniors were informed of and received the services available to them. I know without a doubt that because of Nicole's perseverance and tenacity, we made an impact on many people and were there for them during some of the darkest periods of their lives. Nicole stood tall and helped lead my team, all while facing great adversity herself. At the beginning of her career with my office, she provided care for her half-sister, Jessica, who ended up tragically taking her life in 2009. Nicole's stepfather and grandfather had also taken their lives shortly before, all of which took a toll on her mother and made it clear that Nicole needed to step up and help care for her other half-sister, Alaina. Throughout all this tragedy, Nicole kept a brave face, continuing to work hard and lead my office while also becoming Alaina's legal guardian and providing a stable home for her sister. Unfortunately, Nicole's mother also ended up taking her life, but thanks in part to Nicole's support, her sister has thrived, graduating from high school and with highest honors from University of California, Berkeley, studying and traveling around the world, and starting a successful career of her own. Nicole is very proud of her sister's accomplishments and is grateful for the special bond they share. After serving as my District Director during some of the greatest challenges in our nation's history and following some very hard-fought campaigns, I asked Nicole to move across the country and become my Chief of Staff. She didn't hesitate and since 2013, she has led my team as Chief of Staff with great dedication and conviction. Due largely to Nicole's efforts, my office has had one of the highest retention rates and one of the most diverse staffs in Congress. Throughout her time as Chief of Staff, she has greatly contributed to my success in Congress, helping move forward my legislative priorities and those of my district As a strong leader and with her creative, out-of-the-box thinking, Nicole empowered and motivated my staff to take every opportunity to serve my district and lead on important issues that make a difference in people's lives. This was especially evident during the COVID-19 pandemic, at which time Nicole immediately transitioned my staff to remote work and successfully kept my office operating at full capacity to continue serving our constituents and bring them the most up-to-date information without knowing what the days, weeks, and months ahead had in store. Throughout my time in office, Nicole has helped pave the way for my major accomplishments, from the long-awaited construction of a veterans' clinic in French Camp, to helping improve our water, technology, energy, and environmental policy. Nicole made sure that my constituents and my district always came first and that bringing services and resources to our community always remained the priority. I would be remiss if I didn't mention that Nicole's dedication to serving others not only extends to humans but to animals, too. Over the years, she has opened her home to over 15 animals--including rabbits, cats, dogs, a hamster, and even an iguana. Nicole has also personally rescued over 25 stray and injured animals from the streets of my district. She took them in, rehabilitated, and rehomed them, and with the invaluable and generous help of Harvest Home Animal Sanctuary in Stockton, ensured that the animals that crossed her path found good, loving homes. Her heart knows no bounds, and she continuously demonstrates the true meaning ofselflessness. Nicole's colleagues describe her as compassionate, understanding, and always there for them when they need her, no matter how big or small the issue. She does everything possible to see that staff have the tools and support they need to see the job through. Beyond being a boss and supervisor, Nicole is a friend and mentor to many and is there for the team when they need advice and support. Nicole Damasco is an outstanding employee, boss, colleague, friend, mentor, and leader. Her commitment, focus, kindness, and compassion are unrivaled. She has dedicated over 20 years of her life to public service and is the embodiment of what a public servant should be. Throughout my career in Congress, she has supported me and my team and has made a lasting impact on the lives of my constituents. With great appreciation and admiration for her, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Nicole Damasco for her distinguished and invaluable service.

Mr. McNERNEY

Mr. McNERNEY. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the Disabled American Veterans Al Jordan Chapter 15 on the 100th anniversary of its founding. In 1932, Congress granted a federal charter to Disabled American Veterans (DAV), then the Disabled American Veterans of the World War, establishing it as the official voice of disabled veterans. Since its founding on June 12, 1922, in Stockton, California, the DAV Al Jordan Chapter 15 has cared for and represented countless veterans in San Joaquin County who were rendered disabled during their service. Today, the DAV Al Jordan Chapter 15 continues its important work by providing assistance to those filing disability claims with the Department of Veterans Affairs and directing veterans to vital resources and services. The DAV Al Jordan Chapter 15 has helped many wounded warriors in our community transition to fulfilling futures upon return to civilian life. I commend all the members of Disabled American Veterans Al Jordan Chapter 15, past and present, for a century of dedication to those who served our great nation. I invite my colleagues to join me in honoring them today.

Mr. McNERNEY

Mr. McNERNEY. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Richard Campos for his commitment and dedication to the people of the United States and victims of violence abroad. Through his selfless service and generous spirit, Richard has made a difference in the lives of countless individuals around the world. Richard was born in French Camp, California, and grew up in nearby Stockton. At just 17 years of age, he joined the United States Marine Corps. After serving in the Marines Corps, Richard returned home and continued to serve his community as a San Joaquin County Deputy Marshall and then as San Joaquin County Deputy Sheriff. He concurrently enlisted in the National Guard and was deployed to Iraq in 2003. While Richard was serving in his roles with San Joaquin County, he befriended his colleague, Doug Taylor, and Doug's son, Mark Taylor. Richard was inspired by Mark, a successful surgeon who decided that he needed to help not only his country but also innocent victims of war abroad. With this passion, Mark joined the United States Army, serving with the 82nd Airborne Division in Iraq. Tragically, Lieutenant Colonel Mark Taylor was killed in action in Fallujah, Iraq. Doug was heartbroken and shortly passed after his son's death. Richard was grief-stricken by the passing of his friends and decided to make it his life's mission to honor both Doug and Mark. Richard recalled stories told by Mark of the great need for humanitarian aid in Iraq. One day while reading the newspaper, he was moved by a story about a children's hospital in Basra, Iraq that was left unbuilt, leaving the children without access to medical care. He felt compelled to act and started making phone calls. Although it took nearly two years to secure supplies and find transportation for this mission, in 2009 he was able to personally deliver almost 5 million dollars' worth of medical supplies to the hospital. Following this experience, Richard felt he needed to do more, and decided that providing whatever aid he could to civilians in a warzone was the best way to pay homage to the lives of his belated friends, Doug and Mark. When Richard delivered supplies to Basra, he learned of the great need for humanitarian aid in Kurdistan in northern Iraq. From 2010 to 2014, Richard traveled back and forth from the United States to Iraq to bring much-needed supplies to the Kurdish minority in that region. Richard operated as a one-man team and paid for the supplies and trips out of his own pocket. In 2014, ISIL started to gain ground in Iraq, so Richard turned his attention to the plight of the Yazidis in Iraq. Yazidis, especially women and children, were systematically persecuted by ISIL forces. Richard visited refugee camps and asked what the people needed. Everything from medical supplies to warm clothing was requested. Richard, without hesitation, went to work again, journeying back and forth from the United States to Iraq to bring supplies and aid. He traveled at least twice a year to provide lifesaving help to the Yazidis. Aside from aid and supplies, Richard also brought attention to the plight of refugees through his documentary, ``The Longest Road.'' He traveled the world recounting his firsthand experiences and sharing how ordinary people can step up to help others in need. Along the way, Richard was able to make new friends and acquaintances who helped him on his journey of service. In February of 2022, as war broke out in Ukraine, Richard was once again drawn to help. He took a detour while returning from Iraq to visit Ukraine. There, he found himself in a church with Ukrainian civilians and promised them that he would return with help, and as he had done before, Richard went back home to secure supplies. He kept his promise, delivering aid to the people of Ukraine. To this day, Richard continues to help people around the world. He first served his country as a solider and law enforcement officer and now serves the world as a humanitarian. Richard Campos is the epitome of heroism and selflessness, and to that end, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing him for his distinguished service.

Mr. McNERNEY

Mr. McNERNEY. Mr. Speaker, I introduced H. Res. 1009 in March of this year. This resolution states that it is the sense of the House that the House should debate five of the six commonly accepted principles of the Just War theory to declaring war or authorizing military force. The other Just War principle is that wars should be authorized by the Nation's legitimate body, which in this case is the House of Representatives. The reasoning behind H. Res. 1009 is as follows: One, the U.S. House of Representatives shares the constitutional responsibility to declare war and authorize military force with the United States Senate (Article I, Section 8, Clause 11), but the House has traditionally been the body responsible to declare war or authorize military force. Two, war and military action will always cause injuries, death, destruction, loss of property, famine, displacements, and other hardships. Because of these privations, military authorizations should only be undertaken with sufficient justification. Three, weapons of mass destruction are possessed by a substantial and growing number of nations. These weapons may be capable of exterminating humanity. Four, any conflict has the potential to expand beyond the original intent of the belligerent nations. Five, the Just War theory of what constitutes the moral justification for a nation to engage in war has been developed over the past two millennia. Six, some of the Just War principles are incorporated into the United Nations charter, but this has not prevented the many wars that have taken place since the United Nations was established. No nation in recent history has incorporated the principles of Just War theory into its own governing laws or traditions. Seven, in the United States, an open and transparent debate of the Just War principles would give lawmakers in the United States House of Representatives a structured framework to examine if a call to conflict would be morally justified and may prevent our Nation from entering conflicts that may be harmful to our Nation's interests. Eight, it is possible that debating the Just War principles in the U.S. House of Representatives before authorizing military force would have kept the United States out of military conflicts in the past that have been harmful to our Nation's interests. Nine, H. Res. 1009 does not require the U.S. House of Representatives to debate the Just War principles, but essentially recommends that it does so. Ten, H. Res. 1009 does not limit executive authority, but it does help to ensure that the executive does not overreach. Eleven, after discussions and inputs from Just War scholars, some improvements to H. Res. 1009 have been noted. My intention with H. Res. 1009 is to introduce the idea of having an open and structured debate in the House of Representatives on the most serious and grave responsibility of our government, that of declaring war. In our Nation's history, declarations of war have been done at the request of the President. Having an open and structured debate will lessen the opportunity for misuse of our Nation's military but should not impede our Nation's ability to react to defend our country. Mr. Speaker, I urge the House of Representatives to adopt this concept in the upcoming 118th Congress of debating the Just War principles before authorizing military action and expect that adopting such a resolution will inspire other nations to do the same, thereby reducing the likelihood of future unjustified wars.

Mr. McNERNEY

Mr. McNERNEY. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in celebrating the public service and achievements of Andrew ``Andy'' Chesley, who recently retired from his position as Executive Director of the San Joaquin Council of Governments, or ``SJCOG,'' after forty one years of service. Andy graduated from Miami University of Ohio with a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science and geography, after which he earned a master's degree in Urban and Regional Planning at the University of Iowa. During his fifteen years as Executive Director of the SJCOG, Andy oversaw its rise to prominence among California's metropolitan planning agencies, standing alongside the Bay Area's Metropolitan Transportation Commission, the Southern California Association of Governments, the San Diego Association of Governments, and the Sacramento Area Council of Governments. Andy was responsible for the management of the SJCOG's transportation planning and other regional planning activities, including implementation of the San Joaquin County Multi-Species Habitat Conservation and Open Space Plan. He also authored and implemented San Joaquin County's ``self-help'' sales tax for transportation, which was passed by the county's voters, allowing vital improvements to the region's highway and passenger rail transportation system, thereby making this economically challenged region more attractive to future residents and employers. In addition to his role at the SJCOG, Andy has been chair of the Regional Transportation Planning Agencies of California, is an officer of California's Self-Help Counties Coalition, and is a member of the Institute for Transportation Engineers, the American Planning Association, and the American Public Works Association. He has also been a speaker at state and national conferences of the American Planning Association, the American Society for Public Administrators, the National Association of Regional Councils, and the National Transportation Research Board. Through changing and challenging times, Andy has provided constant and steady leadership and wise counsel to elected officials charged with managing San Joaquin County's growth and has been a leader among his planning agency peers. He has contributed his knowledge and experience to the California's Central Valley and beyond, and he has made a positive impact on our great state. Please join me in recognizing Andrew ``Andy'' Chesley for his distinguished service and in wishing him well on his much-deserved retirement.

Mr. McNERNEY

Mr. McNERNEY. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Stockton Fire Captain Vidal ``Max'' Fortuna, who was tragically killed in the line of duty while responding to a fire in Stockton, California, on January 31st. A beloved husband and father of two, Captain Fortuna was a 21-year veteran of the Stockton Fire Department. He was an active member of his local church and helped coach youth sports in his free time. Captain Fortuna was known for his selflessness and dedication to the community he served. He loved his job and went out of his way to work with and mentor young firefighters, and he has been praised by many within the Stockton Fire Department as a model firefighter who inspired others. His colleague, Fire Chief Rick Edwards, fondly remembers him as having an addictive smile and the ability to make anyone laugh when they were feeling down. Sadly, this is a tragic reminder of the dangers emergency responders face every day. Captain Fortuna's courage will not be forgotten, and I ask that you join me in honoring his life, his service, and his memory.

Mr. McNERNEY

Mr. McNERNEY. Mr. Speaker, when I first came to Congress, one of my earliest observations was the burden of veterans in my district to get to the nearest full-service veterans' health facility. In fact, I even took the drive from Stockton, California, to Palo Alto. It took all day. It became a top priority of mine to bring veterans a facility in my district to reduce the burden of the lengthy travel for local veterans. My son Michael, who convinced me to run for Congress in 2004, himself a veteran, once told me of all of my accomplishments in Congress, I would be the proudest of what I had done for veterans. He was absolutely right. The VA clinic currently under construction in French Camp is one of my proudest accomplishments. As we move forward to opening its doors, it is only fitting that this facility honor a local hero. Master Sergeant Richard A. Pittman was born in French Camp and served with heroism during the Vietnam war. As his unit was moving along a trail near the demilitarized zone, a group of marines ahead of him came under attack. Upon hearing this, Lance Corporal Pittman rushed to the aid of his fellow comrades, successfully destroying the enemy's weapons while under heavy enemy fire. He went on to aid additional wounded marines further along the trail, fighting back an attack by 30 to 40 enemy fighters and forcing the enemy to withdraw. His actions that day saved many wounded comrades and led to him being awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor. I knew Richard Pittman personally, and he was a true patriot. He was unassuming and did not seek out attention or publicity. My congressional district and beyond mourned his passing. It is only fitting to name this new community-based outreach clinic, or CBOC, after Master Sergeant Richard A. Pittman. I ask my colleagues to please join me in voting ``yes'' on H.R. 6722 and officially designating this new facility as the Richard A. Pittman VA Clinic.

Mr. McNERNEY

Mr. McNERNEY. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Dr. John Shirley, who dedicated his life to serving his country and his community. John passed away on December 22, 2021, leaving a legacy of service to and love of country and community. Dr. John Shirley was born in Santa Ana, California on December 8, 1924. At 19 years old, after being drafted and rising quickly to the rank of Staff Sergeant, John was part of the Anzio breakout with the 3rd Infantry Division. After taking part in the invasion of Southern France, he was wounded by fragments of a shell from a German tank and taken prisoner. As he and other prisoners were being marched to the rear, a young German soldier bringing up the rear of the column got too close, and John turned around and slugged him, rendering him unconscious and allowing John to escape to Allied lines. John was awarded a battlefield commission to Second Lieutenant when he rejoined his unit after three months in the hospital recovering from his wounds. Aside from his commission, John was awarded a Purple Heart, Silver Star, and two Bronze Stars with Oak Leaf Cluster and V for Valor devise. He earned the European Theater of Operation Medal with six campaign stars and a bronze arrowhead for the invasion of Southern France, as well as the French Fouragere de Guerre. After the war, John attended the University of California at Davis Veterinary College, graduating in its first class. He set up the first veterinary clinic in Livermore, California and was knowns as ``Doc Shirley'' to the ranchers in the area. John was considered one of the best veterinarians in the region, with the toughest cases referred to him by his peers. John became active in the Livermore community, winning a seat on the Livermore City Council, where he served from 1958 until 1966. He served as Livermore's Mayor from 1963 until 1966. He was a member of the Rotary Club and Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). He led and was instrumental in many projects to improve the quality of life for Livermore residents and served on the VFW Honor Guard, firing gun salutes into his late seventies. John served as president of the Livermore Valley Opera, and as a member of the Livermore Symphony Association. As a member of the 3rd Infantry Division Veterans organization, he raised money for high school Junior ROTC programs in San Francisco and Oakland. He was also instrumental in creating the Veterans First program at Las Positas Community College to provide services to veterans returning to school. John loved sports, and was an avid skier, hiker, tennis player, and golfer. He was also a skilled instrument-rated pilot, which led him to further public service on the Livermore Airport Commission. John said, ``You can be a bad golfer, skier, or tennis player, but you have to be a good pilot.'' On July 13, 2019, Livermore City Council honored John by naming the new council chamber after him: The John Shirley City Council Chamber. John's list of contributions and accomplishments are too long to list. He was the very embodiment of service to his community and to our great Nation. I invite my colleagues to join me in honoring the memory of this great American.

Mr. McNERNEY

Mr. McNERNEY. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life and service of U.S. Navy Hospital corpsman Christopher Gnem, who died in a Marine landing craft accident off the coast of Southern California. Christopher, a hospital corpsman with Bravo Company, BLT \1/4\, 15th, MEU, was among nine servicemembers who were killed in the accident. Christopher was a graduate of Lincoln High School in Stockton, California. He is remembered by his family, and friends for his kind spirit and the positive impact he made on those around him. Our community mourns the loss of Christopher, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family. Christopher selflessly chose to serve our Nation, and his commitment to our country will not be forgotten. I ask my colleagues to remember Christopher Gnem and the brave men and women who place themselves in harm's way in service to our country.

Mr. McNERNEY

Mr. McNERNEY. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the American Legion Karl Ross Post 16 in Stockton, California on the 100th anniversary of its founding. For the last century, the Karl Ross Post has provided assistance and fellowship to Stockton's many veterans and promoted patriotism in the community at-large. Their Honor Guard has marked the interment of many veterans with the dignity and ceremony they deserve--helping their families and our community to recognize their contributions to our peace, freedom, and security. Through the ceremonies the Karl Ross Post organizes--often in conjunction with other veterans' organizations--our community remembers and recognizes the sacrifices veterans have made, and better appreciates the blessings of the liberties and freedoms that we hold dear. Along with the strong role the Karl Ross Post has played locally, it has also had a national reach. Every American veteran has been touched by the efforts of Warren Atherton, who rose from Commander of the Karl Ross Post to National Commander of the American Legion, where he worked with Francis Sullivan to draft the G.I. Bill of Rights. Today, the Karl Ross Post and its members continue their tradition of promoting patriotism and assisting a new generation of combat veterans as they re-enter civilian life. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the American Legion Karl Ross Post 16 and its century of service to our veterans, our community, and our Nation.

Mr. McNERNEY

Mr. McNERNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and work of Mark W. Hemenway, who passed away on May 8, 2022. Mark graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York in 1973. He was intensely focused on his studies and training, while also maintaining perspective and serving as a steady, positive influence on his classmates. He worked his way through a challenging system with confidence and calmness, never losing sight of his priorities. His commitment to academic excellence was apparent to all, and he graduated 61st in a class of over 950 cadets. Mark received a commission as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers upon his graduation and spent seven years as an active-duty service member. After leaving the Army in 1980, Mark worked for a large manufacturing company before joining a consulting firm outside Boston, Massachusetts, conducting logistics, manpower, and training analysis for the U.S. Department of Defense. Later in life, Mark felt called to enter Seminary and obtain a Master of Divinity degree. He and his wife, Kate, met as volunteers while doing street ministry in Boston Common, and in subsequent decades, Mark worked as a volunteer with those most in need at state prisons, county correctional facilities, homeless shelters, and other institutions in the Lowell, Massachusetts area. His contributions will long be remembered by his brothers and sisters at the Salvation Army Lowell Corps Community Center, and by the many people he served throughout the community. Mark's legacy is best encapsulated by a passage from the United States Military Academy Alma Mater, which reads: ``And when our work is done, our course on earth is run, may it be said, 'well done.' Be thou at peace.''

Mr. McNERNEY

Mr. McNERNEY. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the Disabled American Veterans on the 100th anniversary of its founding. In 1920, Judge Robert Marx, a disabled veteran from World War I, convened a group of veterans in Cincinnati, Ohio to form the Disabled American Veterans of the World War, or DAVWW. The DAVWW spoke for the hundreds of thousands of veterans who were rendered disabled during their service. In 1932, Congress granted a federal charter to DAVWW, establishing it as the official voice of disabled veterans. In 1943, with the coming of another world war, the organization shortened its name to Disabled American Veterans, or DAV. Disabled American Veterans has been among the leading organizations in advocating for legislation that improves the treatment of disabled veterans. Filing claims, providing rides, creating job placement programs, and advocating for legislation are just some of the ways Disabled American Veterans have helped our wounded warriors return to full, productive lives in our communities. Veterans who have sacrificed so much to protect our way of life, deserve our admiration, respect, and support. I commend the Disabled American Veterans' commitment to our Nation's veterans and invite my colleagues to join me in honoring Disabled American Veterans and its century of service.

Mr. McNERNEY

Mr. McNERNEY. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Head Start, a crucial program that celebrated its 57th anniversary this year. Since 1965, Head Start has promoted school readiness for children in economically disadvantaged families by offering educational, nutritional, health, and social services. Head Start has served more than 39 million children and their families in urban and rural areas in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. territories, including American Indian, Alaska Native, migrant and seasonal communities. Head Start works with and for the communities they serve to improve the lives of children from birth. Growing from an eight-week demonstration project, Head Start now includes full-day and year-round services, which more than one million children and their families benefit from each year. A key tenet of the program is that it be culturally responsive to the communities it serves, and that the communities have an investment in its success. The early education services and essential support offered by Head Start provides children the tools they need for future success. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Head Start and its staff for their invaluable contributions over the past 57 years to building opportunities so that every child can thrive.

Mr. McNERNEY

Mr. McNERNEY. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Robert ``Bob'' Taylor for his decades of dedicated public service to our community. This year, Bob will retire after serving as Mayor of the City of Brentwood for the last fourteen years-- longer than any other Mayor in Brentwood's history. Bob Taylor was first elected to the Brentwood City Council in 2004 and served as a Councilmember for two years until he was elected Mayor in 2006. As Mayor, Bob has shown his unwavering commitment to our community and is well known for his vibrant personality and dedication to the success of the City of Brentwood and its residents. Bob has also been instrumental in ensuring the safety of the community-at-large through his service on transportation committees such as the Highway 4 Bypass Authority. In addition to this and other committees, he serves on numerous boards and commissions, making sure to never miss an opportunity that could improve the quality of life for his constituents. Prior to becoming Mayor, Bob served twelve years on the Liberty Union High School District Board of Trustees. He has been a businessman and a farmer, and was Past President of Harvest Time Brentwood, a local non- profit farming organization. He is an active community member, participating in Brentwood Chamber of Commerce events, among many other community activities. Bob has made invaluable contributions to our community, and his leadership has made a positive impact on countless individuals and families. Bob is also a veteran who has served our great nation as a member of the United States Navy during the Vietnam era. He currently acts as the Brentwood City Council's liaison to various veterans' groups, demonstrating his steadfast commitment to his fellow servicemembers and our nation's veterans. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring and recognizing Robert ``Bob'' Taylor. His distinguished public service is unparalleled and is as an example to us all.

Mr. McNERNEY

Mr. McNERNEY. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Brandon Leake for his many contributions and accomplishments, including his historic win of Season 15 of America's Got Talent. Brandon is a native of Stockton, California, and has made invaluable contributions to his community by helping others through poetry. In addition to having served as an academic advisor at San Joaquin Delta College, Brandon is the founder and CEO of Called to Move, an organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages and backgrounds to practice the art of poetry. Called to Move encourages personal development and self-actualization and aims to help people achieve their purpose in life through the arts. Brandon has held workshops and has traveled across the country to share his knowledge and gifts as a poet. Brandon won Season 15 of America's Got Talent with his captivating spoken-word performances, and he made history as the first-ever poet to win America's Got Talent. Through the power of words, Brandon has shown the world that our experiences and our stories can uplift, encourage, and inspire. His honest and vulnerable performances not only tell his story, but also those of others that need to be heard. Please join me in recognizing Brandon Leake's many contributions and congratulating him on his win of Season 15 of America's Got Talent.

Mr. McNERNEY

Mr. McNERNEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the mathematical and statistical sciences. Fundamental research in mathematics and statistics touches all of our Nation's scientific and technological priorities and provides tools to address societal changes. As recent examples, mathematical scientists model the spread of pandemics and help assess the effectiveness of vaccine programs. They produce research needed for artificial intelligence and help us understand and predict dangerous weather patterns. And their theoretical work fortifies imaging technologies used to detect diseases, including cancer. We are at a critical time for building and ensuring a stable and more diverse STEM workforce in the future. Mathematics and statistics support all of the STEM disciplines and are critical to our educational system. Every day, mathematicians and statisticians enable advances across all science and technology, making our Nation more secure and globally competitive, and training the next generation of researchers and educators. Please join me and my fellow mathematicians on the Joint Policy Board for Mathematics in celebrating April as Mathematics and Statistics Awareness Month.

Mr. McNERNEY

Mr. McNERNEY. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Wilhelmina Henry for a lifetime of service and to honor her on the 100th anniversary of her birth. Born in Columbia, South Carolina on January 20, 1920, Mrs. Henry earned a degree from the Tuskegee Institute and began her teaching career after World War II in segregated schools in South Carolina, Georgia, and Alabama. In 1947, she moved to Stockton, California and was appointed to a teaching position in the Stockton Unified School District--becoming Stockton's first teacher of color. Mrs. Henry has made invaluable contributions to our local education system. She taught within the Stockton Unified School District until her retirement in 1994, ending her 52-year teaching career. In recognition of her role as a pioneer in education and a civil rights activist who broke the color barrier for teachers, the Wilhelmina Henry Elementary School in Stockton, California was named in her honor in 2006. In addition to her invaluable contributions in education, Mrs. Henry and her husband, Revered Edwin Henry, Sr., formed the Church of All Nations and the Henry Affordable Housing Program in Stockton. She remains an active member in the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, the Black Employees Association of Stockton Unified School District, the Ebenezer AME Church, the NAACP, and the Stockton Teachers Association. Mrs. Henry is a trailblazer and role model, paving the way for many others who have followed in her footsteps. In celebration of her 100th birthday and lifetime of service, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Wilhelmina Henry.

Mr. McNERNEY

Mr. McNERNEY. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Artie Walker. Artie Walker was born in Stallo, Mississippi, on April 3, 1930 and moved to Stockton in 1948 after graduating from high school. In 1957, Artie was the first African-American woman to be hired by the San Joaquin County Sheriff's Office. During her 25-year career in law enforcement she worked in several capacities including in the patrol section, in court services and the youth services section of the detective division, and at the men's and women's jails. She was instrumental in implementing rehabilitation programs at the women's jail and began a project in the Sherriff's Department to make Christmas gifts available for residents of Children's Home of Stockton. Artie was an advocate for women's rights and was honored by the local chapter of the National Organization for Women with the ``Diana Award'' for her contributions to helping women gain equality. Artie also showed devotion to her community through her service at Christ Temple Church of Stockton. She served as Secretary of the Crist Temple Church of Stockton's Board of Directors and as an Associate Minister. Her dedication, enthusiasm, spirit, and commitment to others is inspiring. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the memory of Artie Walker and her lifetime of service.

Mr. McNERNEY

Mr. McNERNEY. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating former Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Carol Browner, who is this year's recipient of the Pure Earth Force of Nature Award. A lifelong environmental advocate, Administrator Browner spearheaded the creation of the EPA's first policy that focused on the link between children's health risks and exposure to environmental hazards, resulting in the establishment of the EPA's Office of Children's Health Protection (OCHP). Today, the OCHP remains vigilant in its work to increase environmental health literacy among health care providers, in addition to evaluating and raising awareness about environmental contaminants that may contribute to childhood disease. Administrator Browner holds the title of the longest serving EPA Administrator in the agency's history, and under her leadership, much was accomplished. She continues to work to combat environmental risks to children's health through a public-private partnership that is tackling the global lead poisoning crisis, which impacts 800 million children in low- and middle-income countries.

Mr. McNERNEY

Mr. McNERNEY. Madam Speaker, this past week we commemorated the 31st anniversary of Operation Desert Storm and paid tribute to the men and women who served in the final effort to liberate Kuwait from invading Iraqi troops. The service members who carried out Operation Desert Storm were instrumental in bringing the Gulf War to an end. Their courage and sacrifice are a symbol of our nation's values and commitment to our allies around the world. That's why I introduced House Resolution 172, to designate February 28th as ``Desert Storm Veterans Day'' and to advocate for fair compensation and the highest quality medical treatment for veterans suffering from ailments associated with their Desert Storm service-- some of which stem from exposure to chemical, biological, and environmental toxins. I want to thank my constituent, Michael Emerson, for his fervent support of this effort. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the tremendous contributions of those who served in Operation Desert Storm.

Mr. McNERNEY

Mr. McNERNEY. Madam Speaker, I thank my friend for allowing me to speak today. Madam Speaker, I rise and join my colleagues in honoring the late Pro Football Hall of Fame Inductee, John Madden. John Madden was a giant in the world of football who brought an appreciation and an understanding of the game into the homes of Americans. Selected in the 21st round of the 1958 NFL draft, Madden suffered a severe knee injury during his rookie training camp, ending his pro football playing career when it was just getting started. Undeterred by his injuries, Madden's love for the game of football propelled him to pursue a coaching career. In 1969, he was hired as the head coach for the Oakland Raiders, making him the youngest head coach in the NFL, with only 1 year of coaching experience. Now, somebody saw something to promote him to head coach in just 1 year of coaching. As head coach, he amassed an incredible record of 103 regular season victories, with only 32 losses in 10 seasons. That gave him the second-highest winning percentage for NFL coaches. Madden's ferocious will to win would not be denied in Super Bowl XI, the first Super Bowl championship for the silver and black. While already a legendary Hall of Fame head coach, John Madden cemented his legacy as an icon of the sport from the broadcasting booth, becoming the first sports analyst to have worked all four of the ``Big Four'' U.S. television networks, and earning an incredible 16 Emmy awards. With a career in professional football spanning 4 decades, very few have transcended generations the way John Madden has, and his legacy will live on forever in the memories of players, fans, friends, and through the memories made by millions who played the best-selling Madden NFL Football game. On a personal note, I had the privilege of meeting John Madden and, yes, he was kind, he was personable, and it is true, we all ate very well that day. Not everyone gets to make a difference to so many people in this life, and John Madden was one of those people.

Mr. McNERNEY

Mr. McNERNEY. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing and celebrating Roderick Townsend for his record-breaking success at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. Born with nerve damage to his right arm and shoulder, Roderick's incredible journey overcoming adversity has demonstrated that perseverance and hard work can lead to great achievements. Roderick, a native of Stockton, California, graduated from Lincoln High School. He demonstrated his athletic prowess as a member of Lincoln High School's varsity football team, where he was selected as the 2009 team captain, as well as a San Jose Athletic Association first team defensive end and second team all-area player. Roderick later went on to attend San Joaquin Delta College, where he competed in the decath and high jump. During the 2012 season, he was selected as the Delta College Track and Field Team captain and was ranked seventh in the nation and second in the state of California for his high jump performances. He still holds the Delta College high jump record and Delta College Track Facility record. Roderick went on to graduate from Boise State University and then received his Master of Education from Northern Arizona University. Making his international debut at the Arizona Grand Prix in 2015, Roderick quickly made a name for himself on the international scene representing the United States in the World Championships in high jump, long jump, and triple jump. Roderick's years of hard work culminated in him being selected to compete in his first Paralympic Games in 2016 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where he clinched double gold medals by winning both the long jump and high jump T47--setting Paralympic world records in both. Aspiring to reach even greater heights, Roderick competed in the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games as a member of the United States Paralympics Track and Field Team. Once again having the honor to represent his country in the world's foremost athletic competition, Roderick set the Paralympic world record by leaping 2.15 meters in the men's high jump T47 and in doing so, earned his third gold medal to date. Additionally, he earned the silver medal and achieved his personal record of 7.43 meters in the men's long jump T47. Roderick also chose to put his years of experience to work serving the youth of his community as a track and field coach. He has coached at Delta College and Jim Elliott Christian High School in Lodi, California, and served as a sports performance coach at The Performance Project in Stockton. Roderick currently serves as a full-time assistant coach with the Northern Arizona University's Men's and Women's Track and Field program. Roderick serves as an example for young athletes across this country, demonstrating that no matter your circumstances, with hard work you can achieve greatness. I'm honored to recognize Roderick Townsend for his distinguished athletic achievements and ask my colleagues to join me in wishing him the best of luck in his future competitions.

Mr. McNERNEY

Mr. McNERNEY. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing James Mousalimas for his dedicated service to our community and congratulating him on his retirement after 35 years in education. James found his passion for education during his time as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Niger, West Africa, where he was a teacher and basketball coach. Following this experience, he taught math in Richmond Unified School District and then embarked overseas to become a teacher, assistant principal, and eventually the principal of an American International School in Saudi Arabia. In 1998, James returned to the United States and served as Coordinator of Year-Round Education for Tracy Unified School District. Shortly thereafter, he became the Director of Alterative Programs for Tracy Unified School District. In 2008, James joined the San Joaquin County Office of Education (SJCOE) as Assistant Superintendent of County Operated Schools and Programs. James was elected as the San Joaquin County Superintendent of Schools in 2014 and again in 2018. During his tenure as Superintendent of Schools, James brought visionary ideas to fruition, expanding and adding new services to meet the needs of students, families, and our community. From advancing STEM education to furthering adult learning, James worked tirelessly to ensure the success of SJCOE schools and programs including the Greater Valley Conservation Corps, Come Back Kids, Teachers College of San Joaquin, CodeStack Academy, and the SJCOE FabLab. James has made invaluable contributions to our community, and his leadership has made a positive impact on countless students. He was instrumental in the opening of the Discovery Challenge Academy in San Joaquin County, which helps students who traditionally would have fallen through the cracks and allows them to earn high school credits, develop leadership, job skills, and academic skills while improving self-esteem, pride, and confidence. Additionally, James oversaw the transition to online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic to keep students, teachers, and educators safe. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing James Mousalimas for his distinguished service and in wishing him a happy, well-deserved retirement.

Mr. McNERNEY

Mr. McNERNEY. Madam Speaker, I thank the chairwoman for her hard work on this excellent piece of legislation, the staff and Democratic members of the committee, and all Members across the aisle for their hard work on these very important issues. I rise today in support of my two amendments to division B of H.R. 4502. These two amendments draw much-needed attention to the energy-water nexus. Energy and water development systems have become more vulnerable as water scarcity and uncertainty have become more pronounced in the West. It is time for a more integrated approach to addressing challenges and opportunities, and my amendments encourage our government agencies to improve underlying data collection and analysis. My first amendment encourages the Energy Information Administration to conduct a more robust analysis and data collection of water consumption in the commercial and residential surveys and to make the information publicly available. My second amendment encourages the Bureau of Reclamation to address the energy consumption from their pumping stations to better understand the opportunities for energy efficiencies and to reduce energy use measures. Better data and analysis are foundational to identifying efficiencies in the face of climate change, especially in States where water processing uses a large portion of the energy budget. Madam Speaker, I urge the adoption of these amendments.

Mr. McNERNEY

Mr. McNERNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 2467, the PFAS Action Act. PFAS compounds do not naturally break down in the environment. Exposure to even small amounts of PFAS has been linked to diseases, birth defects, and developmental disorders. These chemicals have been used in consumer products for decades and have, thus, been allowed to spread and accumulate throughout the environment, into our air, our water, and our soils. In my own district, PFAS has been detected in multiple drinking water systems, which puts the health and safety of my constituents at risk. The same can be said for millions of people in communities across the country. Until recently, the extent of the problem was underestimated in my home State. With expanded testing, we now know that California is one of the most impacted States in the country. A recent investigation by the State Water Resources Control Board showed PFAS contamination in almost 100 public water systems serving about 7.5 million Californians. We need a national strategy to prevent exposure to these toxic substances. This bill sets a deadline for the EPA to take action on establishing standards, limits the introduction of new PFAS into commerce and the environment, and provides support for communities to install treatment technologies. This bill is needed both to clean up pollution now and to prevent it from getting worse in the future. I want to thank Representative Dingell and Representative Upton for their leadership on H.R. 2467 and Chairman Pallone, Chairman Tonko, for helping to move this important legislation. I also want to thank the committee staff for their work on this bill. I urge all of my colleagues to vote ``yes.''