Jimmy Panetta

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my concern about the President's budget, and, in particular, the $610 billion in proposed cuts to Medicaid over the next 10 years. In my district on the central coast of California, Medicaid provides healthcare to over 280,000 people. These are people that need it the most, including low-income families, children, disabled, and pregnant women. Clinics and hospitals, particularly in rural communities like my district, rely on Medicaid to provide patients with mandatory and preventative services. Employees from the number one industry in my area--agriculture--rely on those health clinics so that they can stay healthy and ultimately contribute to our economy and our culture. If Medicaid is cut, as desired in the President's budget, it will hurt not just my community, it will hurt our country. Throughout our Nation, millions would lose healthcare, healthcare clinics would close, and many insurance companies who partner with Medicaid would see cuts in their reimbursement rates substantially. I realize that many of us in Washington have not been on Medicaid, but many of us need to realize that Medicaid benefits many of the Americans that sent us here. The least we can do is support them and their families by fighting against the President's budget and fighting to keep funding for Medicaid.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Santa Cruz Chief of Police Kevin Vogel for his 30 years of service to the Santa Cruz Police Department, and the community it serves. Chief Vogel has dedicated his entire career to the people of Santa Cruz, and was first sworn in as a cadet for the SCPD in June 1987. Throughout his long and distinguished career, Chief Vogel has served in numerous capacities in the Department, including as a patrol officer, traffic officer and detective. He was promoted to sergeant in January 1995 where he served as a patrol supervisor, downtown supervisor and detective sergeant. He was promoted to lieutenant in 2002, and to Deputy Chief of Police in May 2004. He was appointed as the City's 21st Chief of Police on December 9, 2010. A champion of creative and transparent community-oriented policing, Chief Vogel oversaw the implementation of a highly successful and innovative predictive policing program. This program utilizes technology based on earthquake prediction technology, and was praised by numerous media outlets and law enforcement agencies around the country, including The New York Times, ABC World News, and was even named as one of Time Magazine's ``50 Best New Inventions'' of 2011. More important than the accolades however, was the significant reduction in crime rates experienced under the program. Under Chief Vogel's leadership, Santa Cruz policing became a model for the nation. Chief Vogel also shouldered the impossible task of guiding the SCPD through its greatest hardship that occurred on February 26, 2013 when two officers, Sgt. Loran ``Butch'' Baker and Detective Elizabeth Butler, were tragically gunned down in the line of duty. This devastating crime shook our community to its core as we all mourned the loss of these fallen heroes. Through this time of uncertainty, Chief Vogel acted with honor and poise. He memorialized his fallen officers beautifully, and guided a deeply aggrieved department and community through this very difficult time. As time has passed, Chief Vogel ensured that the memories of Sgt. Baker and Detective Butler will not fade, and challenges his officers every day to honor their legacy and ultimate sacrifice by continuing to selflessly perform the work of upholding public safety in their communities. Mr. Speaker, as someone who has dedicated their career to public service, it is my pleasure to add my name to the chorus of thanks and congratulations to someone who embodies that ideal of service to others. I whole-heartedly congratulate Chief Kevin Vogel on his retirement, and wish him all the best. There is no doubt that his commitment to justice, security, and prosperity for his community of Santa Cruz will serve as an enduring legacy.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today about the need for investment in our infrastructure. As we know, this week is National Infrastructure Week. In my district on the central coast of California, we need infrastructure investment, not just for our roads, for our water systems, and our rural broadband but for something I used growing up, the transit systems. The bus systems where I am from played an important role not just in my life but in many of my constituents' daily lives. Parents use the system to bring their children to their doctors, students use the transit system to attend the many schools and colleges in my area, and our employees use this form of transportation when they travel to their high-tech jobs in Silicon Valley, to their hospitality jobs on the Monterey Peninsula, and to their agriculture jobs in the Salinas and Pajaro Valleys. The transit system makes our businesses more accessible to their employees, to their customers, and everybody who helps the regional economy, but the benefits don't end with our riders. With transit, our roads experience less wear and tear, and our environment is protected. I know that my district isn't unique when it comes to the need for infrastructure investment. Our entire country needs it. So let's continue to do our jobs here in the Congress. Let's invest in our transit systems, in our infrastructure, so that our government can do something for our constituents, our local businesses, our home, and our families.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong opposition to the American Health Care Act. My colleagues across the aisle tried and failed once before to consider this bill, but they pulled it from the House floor because they didn't have the votes. Today, they seek to pass this. amended bill, but it's just as flawed as the first. The changes will hurt seniors, veterans, the sick, and middle and low-income individuals. Essential health benefits guaranteed in the Affordable Care Act can now be waived, comprising quality health care for those with pre-existing conditions, expectant mothers, and individuals seeking mental health and substance abuse treatment. Ultimately, millions of Americans will be harmed by this bill. This second attempt to rush a vote on our nation's health care, without a revised Congressional Budget Office score, was quickly and carelessly crafted to meet arbitrary, deadlines and ill-conceived campaign promises. Protecting the central coast of California's health care, particularly for the most vulnerable among us, is one of my top priorities. I urge my colleagues in the Majority party to focus not on partisan interests but serve the people. I will be voting no on this bill. I urge my colleagues across the aisle to do the same.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today for rural America. I represent the central coast of California, one of the most beautiful and bountiful districts in our Nation. With its many and diverse crops, it is the salad bowl of the world. Now, I know it is on the coast of California, but if you drive 1 or 2 miles east, you will be in rural America. I understand a majority of rural Americans voted for Donald Trump. It has been 100 days now, and all they have received is broken promises with an intended laceration of the Department of Agriculture budget by 21 percent and a lack of respect and a limited appreciation for what the men and women do in rural America. We ask the President to stop his lip service and start giving public service to rural America with investments in infrastructure, research and development, and, yes, immigration reform. It is time to stop the rhetoric and start recognizing that people who come here who work in agriculture contribute not just to our economy but to our country. Mr. President, all we ask is that you do what people in rural America do every single day. They get up, they work hard, they are stewards of the land, they provide security for our food and for our families, and they serve not just their communities, they serve our country.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mark the National Day of Silence, which took place last Friday, April 21. That is a day when young people come together to raise awareness about the issues faced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender students. In fact, it is the only day that highlights issues affecting our LGBT youth. It is that type of day that will lead to more acceptance and inclusiveness in our society. Isa Moreno is a student from my district, in the town of Watsonville. She remained silent on that day. After, she said: ``Now, more than ever, we as a nation must understand the importance of unity and solidarity.'' I couldn't agree more. As a member of the LGBT Equality Caucus, we work to ensure inclusiveness in our country by fighting for policies that support our LGBT youth in our communities. Many students like Isa took a vow of silence last Friday. So now we, as leaders, must take responsibility to speak out, to speak up, and to step up for all Americans living in fear because of who they love and who they are.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize David Pendergrass, the Mayor of Sand City, on his retirement after serving as mayor for thirty-five years. As an outstanding citizen and public servant, Mayor Pendergrass made a significant impact on the lives of citizens and the business community in Sand City in his four decades of public service. As Mayor, he has achieved high praise for his accomplishments in the local, regional and business community on the Central Coast. In addition to his time as mayor, David was a professional artist and illustrator. He also had a thirty-two-year tenure working for the United States Army Training Division, in the Directorate of Plans, Training, and Mobilization Support Center. Mayor Pendergrass entered public service in 1978 and twice served as Chair of the Monterey Peninsula Water Management District. Further, he served on the Fort Ord Reuse Authority, the Monterey-Salinas Transit Board of Directors, the Regional Taxi Authority, the Monterey Peninsula Regional Water Authority and the Association of Monterey Area Governments. During his tenure, Mayor Pendergrass has turned Sand City into a hub of economic and commercial activity. The accomplishments he has made to the Central Coast community will be felt for generations. His involvement in local and regional governance has provided a positive economic impact to the local business sector. As Mayor, he has worked diligently on the challenging issue of water supply quantity and quality for the Monterey Peninsula. He also provided leadership in the community effort to deal with the closure of Fort Ord and establish CSU Monterey Bay. Mayor Pendergrass has deep roots in the community by raising three children, fourteen grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. I am proud of the mayor's many personal and professional accomplishments. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to recognize the dedication and hard work Mayor Pendergrass has given to Sand City and the Central Coast region. I ask my distinguished colleagues to join me in recognizing Mayor Pendergrass and to congratulate him on his well-earned retirement.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, in the early morning hours on a day earlier this week, a small town in northwest Syria was atrociously attacked with chemical bombs. As a result, over 75 civilians died and over 20 children gasped for air, writhed in pain, and foamed at the mouth. They suffered dilated pupils, muscle spasms, and involuntary defecation. Based on the state of this evidence, it appears that it was the Syrian President, Bashar al-Assad, who committed this heinous act against his people once again. The last time Assad committed such an act, in 2013, he agreed to eliminate his chemical weapons. However, it appears he lied, and he continues his sick aggression against his own people and our humanity. From the first use of chemical weapons in World War I to the Iran- Iraq war in the 1980s and now in Syria, chemical weapons epitomize the absolute horror of modern-day warfare. That is, of course, why they are outlawed and why their use is a war crime. That is also why anybody who uses them must be treated and penalized like a war criminal.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Equal Pay Day. This day marks how far into this year that a woman must work to earn what a man earned up to December 31 of last year. In the United States, a woman is paid 20 percent less than her male counterpart. In California, a woman earns 86 percent of what men earn. Pay disparities in California are even more stark for women of color. Latinas make just 56 percent of what a man makes. In order to continue to close the pay gap, Congress must pass the Paycheck Fairness Act. That law would strengthen the Equal Pay Act by requiring employers to demonstrate that wage differences are not due to gender, and they would hold employers accountable for discriminatory actions. This bill, which I proudly cosponsored, is only one step forward. Congress must also pass legislation to address family leave and fight to protect a woman's right to choose, because, ultimately, the challenges and burdens women face are shared by all Americans, and when half of our citizenry is in any way impeded from their full potential, all of our country suffers.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Monterey County Superior Court Judge, Albert H. Maldonado for his 22 years of service in Monterey County courts. In 1969, Judge Maldonado received his bachelor's degree from the University of Redlands. In 1974, he earned his Juris Doctorate from the University of California, Boalt Hall School of Law in Berkeley. Prior to finishing law school, Judge Maldonado served the U.S. Army from 1970-1971 where he received a number of awards, including: the Bronze Star, Vietnam Service Medal, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal. In 1995, Judge Maldonado was appointed to the bench in the Municipal Court at the Monterey Judicial District, becoming the second Mexican- American to be appointed since 1836. In 2000, Judge Maldonado became a Superior Court Judge for the state of California. During his twenty-two years of service, Judge Maldonado worked to solve a range of social and legal issues on behalf of Monterey County, including drug treatment, criminal and civil mental health, and criminal matters. Judge Maldonado has been an exemplary figure for social change through the framework of public and legal service. A proud Mexican- American, Judge Maldonado is the first person of Mexican descent to be appointed to the bench by a California governor in 150 years. My congressional district is a heavily Mexican populated district, and Judge Maldonado's mark in Monterey County's legal field history will undoubtedly continue to be a seed of inspiration for generations to come. As someone who has dedicated their career to public service, it is an honor to recognize Judge Albert Maldonado for his many years in the legal field and his unending efforts to create a positive impact for the lives in Monterey County. On behalf of California's District 20, I would like to thank Judge Maldonado for the many years of service and positive involvement in our community, and wish him a wonderful retirement. There is no doubt that Judge Maldonado's commitment to social justice inside and outside the courtroom will continue to be an inspiration to us all.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in opposition of the executive order that was signed that attempts to destroy the Clean Power Plan. Once again, we are seeing politics driving policy. We are seeing the fulfillment of a past campaign promise rather than a focus on our future. The administration claims that the Clean Power Plan limits jobs. The reality is that the jobs were not lost due to tougher carbon emission standards. Instead, jobs were found due to our innovation, more competition based on cheaper natural gas, more mechanization due to advances in technology, and more tax credits for renewable energy. The reality is that more jobs and property will be lost without reducing our CO2 output. More CO2 will lead to more acidification which will lead to less fish and less fishermen. More CO2 will lead to shrinking icecaps and expanding sea levels causing damage to property not only along the central coast of California, my district, but along all coastlines around the world. Homes, businesses, and even our Navy bases will be affected, threatening not just our personal but our national security. The administration needs to stop taking steps backwards when it comes to our CO2 output. But like many businesses, it needs to start pivoting and taking steps forward to protect our jobs, our coastlines, and our future.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposition of what has become basically the complete repeal of the ACA. Don't get me wrong. I have talked to small-business owners, and I have talked to patients who have talked about the expenses of the ACA. But I have also heard from people in my district on the central coast of California how much it has benefited them, including 65,000 people who now have coverage under Medicaid and 25,000 people who have gained it through the marketplace. If the AHCA becomes law, we are not making it cheaper, and we are not making it more accessible. Instead, all that is happening is that they are fulfilling a campaign promise. Mr. Speaker, we must make sure that the ACA is here. We cannot take it away. We must make sure that we provide care, we provide coverage, and we provide the covenant that we promised our constituents.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Deputy Chief Daniel Perez Jr. on the occasion of his retirement from the Salinas' Sheriff office after serving the public for 32 years. An outstanding officer and citizen, Deputy Chief Daniel Perez Jr. has dedicated much of his life to safeguarding the community of Salinas County. In addition to his time as an officer of the law, Daniel Perez is a strong voice in many nonprofit organizations and within his own community. Dan was born and raised in Salinas and is a graduate of Alisal High School. He has a degree from Hartnell College in Criminal Justice, a Bachelor's Degree in Organizational Behavior from the University of San Francisco, and a Master's Degree in Human Resources from Chapman University. He is a graduate of the POST Supervisory Leadership Institute and POST Command College. He's received several awards and recognitions throughout his 32-year career. Deputy Chief Dan Perez began his law enforcement career in 1984 with the Monterey Co. Sheriff's Dept. as a Level II Reserve deputy working patrol, and special events. He was hired full-time as a Patrol Deputy in May of 1995. He attended the Alameda County Police Academy in Pleasanton, CA., graduating No. 2 overall in his class. During his career at MCSO, he worked out of the Salinas, and King City stations. He attained the rank of Corporal/FTO, and also worked as a Coroner's Investigator. He was on the Sheriff's SWAT team and Riot Control Team. He worked for the Sheriff's Office until February 1, 1992. Dan joined the Salinas Police Department on February 2, 1992. He's held many assignments in his career to include patrol officer, field training officer, and SWAT team member. He was promoted to Police Corporal in 1993 and Police Sergeant in 1995. In addition to patrol, he's been the sergeant of the Violence Suppression Unit, Personnel and Training Unit, and Traffic Unit. He was promoted to Lieutenant in 2001 and later to Police Commander in 2005. He has managed units and programs in all three divisions of the police department: Patrol, Investigations, and Administration. He served as an Area Commander, Tactical Commander, and Incident Commander throughout these assignments. He was then promoted to Deputy Chief in 2013, and is currently the Investigations Division Chief. Dan has been active in the community throughout his entire career. He has volunteered his time towards programs and committees such as explorers, school yearbook committees, and youth and high school football, basketball, and baseball programs. He sat on the board of directors of three local non-profit agencies: The Salinas Police Activities League (PAL), Sun Street Centers, and Second Chance Youth and Family Services. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to recognize the dedication and hard work Deputy Chief Daniel Perez Jr. has done for others during his time serving with the Salinas Police Department. I ask my distinguished colleagues to join me in recognizing the selflessness service of Deputy Chief Daniel Perez Jr. and to congratulate him on his well-earned retirement. I extend my personal appreciation to Deputy Chief Daniel Perez Jr. for his service to his community.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposition to the American Health Care Act and the repeal of the Affordable Care Act. Since the passage of the Affordable Care Act 7 years ago, in my district, the uninsured rate has dropped from 19 percent to 9 percent. In my district, there has been the creation and the funding of 6,500 jobs in local hospitals and rural healthcare clinics. Yet, despite this progress in my community and across our country, the majority wants to replace the ACA with a quickly and carelessly crafted AHCA. If the AHCA becomes law, in my district, 56,000 people will lose their healthcare coverage. In Salinas, hardworking families will pay more than $3,000 for healthcare coverage; and in Santa Cruz, low-income senior citizens will be stripped of $10,000 worth of subsidies. Yes, the ACA does have its faults, but we should come together to thoughtfully fix it. But it is not just about money; it is about people. And it is not just about people; it is about the security that the ACA provides people to live their daily lives. Mr. Speaker, the AHCA makes us insecure, and that is why I am voting against it.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise in support of H.R. 1029, the Pesticide Registration Enhancement Act of 2017. Once again, Madam Speaker, I stand before you to urge the passage of H.R. 1029. As we know, the Environmental Protection Agency is responsible for regulating the sale, use, and distribution of pesticides. To facilitate and expedite that pesticide approval process, pesticide manufacturers have long supplemented the EPA's annual budget. This system allows the products to be reviewed in a timely manner, without sacrificing environmental and safety protections. It is truly a win-win for both manufacturers and consumers, and, as you heard Mr. Davis speak about, it is a clear example of government at its best. It is exactly why I enjoy working on the Committee on Agriculture. It is exactly why I enjoy working with people such as Rodney Davis. We have a bipartisan, effective, public-private legislative solution for a more predictable pesticide evaluation process that literally helps everybody. The Pesticide Registration Enhancement Act, H.R. 1029, is an exceptional piece of legislation not only because it is supported by a unique coalition of pesticide registrants, environmental groups, and agricultural labor representatives, but H.R. 1029 provides a more effective, predictable, and transparent pesticide evaluation process. It promotes shorter review periods for reduced-risk pesticides and enhances scientific and regulatory activities related to farmworker protection. My district on the central coast of California is not only bountiful in its agriculture, it is absolutely beautiful with its environment. Therefore, we on the central coast work hard to find that balance of being known as the salad bowl of the world and one of the most scenic places in the world. That is why our agriculture producers are the most thoughtful stewards of the land and recognize the need to protect the environment and the natural resources. This legislation facilitates that balance. This legislation provides a unique coalition building and encourages the agriculture industry to work with environmentalists. Thus, H.R. 1029 helps all of us who live and work in our community and, ultimately, our country. That is why I am absolutely honored to speak in this debate, humbled to share the floor with Representative Davis, and why I urge all my colleagues to support this bill. Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to advocate for a national infrastructure plan. I represent the central coast of California, and this winter we got rain. We got a lot of rain. So much so that it caused millions in damage to the area, including the closure of the famous Highway 1 in Big Sur, with major mudslides in the south and the loss of the 315-foot Pfeiffer Canyon Bridge in Big Sur. That damage has left 450 people isolated: kids can't get to school; families are separated; and employers and employees are suffering, including the loss of $8 million in 1 month in the off-season. But the effects of that damage extend beyond Big Sur to the surrounding towns, counties, and, actually, the entire State of California. People from all over the world come to Big Sur. They drive down from San Francisco. They drive up from Los Angeles. They patronize towns all along their way to Big Sur. We understand why. It is the most beautiful place in the world. It is my home. And we want it to be open to all of you. It is time that the Congress and our President help Americans by investing in our American infrastructure.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate John V. Narigi for being named the 2016 Citizen of the Year by the Monterey Peninsula Chamber of Commerce and to recognize Mr. Narigi's leadership in our community on the Central Coast. Mr. Narigi is a native of Gig Harbor, Washington and graduated from Gonzaga University. In 1993, Mr. Narigi made a permanent move from Washington to the Monterey Peninsula. Since his move, Mr. Narigi has played an important role in leading the Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa's executive team. Among his many other accomplishments, Mr. Narigi has served as President and remained an active board member for the Monterey County Hospitality Association and has served on the Monterey Commercial Property Owners Association, the Cannery Row Business Association, the Monterey Bay Issues and Candidates Political Action Committee, and the Coalition of Peninsula Businesses. He has proven himself to be a natural leader by transforming and raising the profile of local organizations that have improved the lives of residents and visitors alike. Mr. Narigi has dedicated his life's work to improving non-profits, local small businesses, Monterey County leadership boards, and youth sports. Mr. Narigi served as the Chairman of the Board for Rancho Cielo, a community organization dedicated to helping underserved youth in Monterey County become self-sufficient through vocational training and education. His commitment to the work done at Rancho Cielo is a testament to how much he cares about his community and making sure that our young people have opportunities to succeed. As someone who has dedicated a lifetime to public service, it is my honor to recognize Mr. Narigi's tireless involvement on the Central Coast. Mr. Narigi's commitment to improving the well-being of our community is an inspiration to us all.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposition of the plan to repeal the ACA. A recent analysis of this plan concludes that 10 million people would lose their health insurance. That is mainly due to the fact that the plan would stop Medicaid expansion and shorten the Medicare trust fund. Many people in my district would be affected by this plan. 68,000 of my constituents are covered by the Medicaid expansion, 23,000 constituents receive assistance to afford health insurance through the exchange. If the ACA is repealed and the new plan implemented, thousands of my constituents, my neighbors, and my friends would lose their coverage. But don't just take my word for it or my constituents' word for it. Let's ask the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office to look at the plan carefully and to give a report as to who and how many people it will affect. If you are going to take on something that affects so many Americans, then America deserves to know how our health care and our lives will be impacted by your plan.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to express my continued disappointment with President Trump's anti-immigrant stance, especially based on his joint session remarks last night. I admit I was very honored to attend my first joint session as a Member of Congress, but as a Member of Congress, as an American, and as a grandson of an Italian immigrant, I was disheartened that the President doubled down on his divisive and dangerous rhetoric against immigrants and continued to create fear by focusing on the worst in people. Before I came to Congress, I was a prosecutor. I understand and believe that those who commit serious and violent felonies should be prosecuted and deported. But I also grew up on the central coast of California, and I realize and appreciate how much immigrants contribute to our community. That is why I want to ask President Trump to come down from his gold tower, come out of the White House, and come to the green and fertile Salinas, San Juan, and Pajaro Valleys. He will see that immigrants are the reason why my district is called the salad bowl of the world. He will see that immigrants are the cornerstone, the foundation not only of that economy, not only of that community, but of our country.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak against restricting the family planning services that are provided by title X. Just prior to signing title X into law, back in 1970, President Richard Nixon recognized how essential family planning was to public health. He actually sent a message to Congress telling them, ``no American woman should be denied access to family planning assistance because of her economic condition.'' Last year, Mr. Speaker, President Obama reaffirmed that sentiment by making family planning services a part of basic health care, regardless of where one lives. Although Presidents Nixon and Obama couldn't be more divided in their politics, even they were united behind title X. I believe this is understandable, considering how title X ensures basic preventive health care and family planning services for 4 million low-income people every year. In my district, title X family planning services saves an average of $7 on Medicaid-related costs for every dollar of Federal investment. That means that clinics in my district, like Mar Monte, are able to help more women and men receive a full range of healthcare services. Rather than restricting family planning clinics, we should be promoting, we should be protecting, and we should be preserving access to those vital services, especially for those families that value and need it most.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Chief Warrant Officer Five Mary A. Hostetler on her retirement from the United States Army Reserve and to recognize the tremendous contributions of her 40 years of service to our Central Coast and country. Chief Hostetler has a special connection to the Central Coast, receiving degrees from Monterey Peninsula College and the University of California, Santa Cruz. She has also worked as a Supervisory Criminal Investigator for the Presidio of Monterey and as a Police Officer for the Seaside and Sand City Police Departments, all located in my congressional district. In 2003, Chief Hostetler deployed for the first time to Iraq. There, she provided security to the Presidential Envoy to Iraq, L. Paul Bremer. Not only was this her first deployment, but she also distinguished herself as the first woman to provide protective services in a combat zone. After her deployment to Iraq, she served as the team officer in charge of the protective detail for former Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta, my father. Her service to my family is greatly appreciated by my parents, my two brothers and me. There is nothing more awe inspiring than public servants who are willing to place themselves in harm's way for the protection of others. I know my family joins me in commending Mary for her forty years of public service to our nation, and wishing her the very best for a well-deserved retirement.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Louisiana (Mr. Johnson) for this opportunity. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to discuss our commitment to civility, a promise that I have made to my constituents at home and a promise that I have made to my colleagues here in Washington, D.C. Prior to my being sworn in, during my campaign of 2016, the number one question I heard and I received from the people in my district on the Central Coast of California was: Why would you want to go to Washington, D.C., right now? I heard that over and over and over. I heard that people were dissatisfied with the dysfunction in Congress. I heard that they were disgusted with the partisanship of Congress. I heard that they were disheartened with our system of government. And I believe that it is that sentiment that lent to the denouement of November 8. I admit I was disappointed by the Presidential election, and I believe that partisanship that was displayed during that election continued in Washington, D.C. It started when I got here for new Member orientation. When we got here as freshmen, Republicans and Democrats, we were automatically split up. I did not get to know my fellow freshmen Republican colleagues here in D.C. It wasn't until we went on to Boston and Virginia that we actually took time to get to know each other, where they are from, and what they were about. What I can tell you--the thing that I say that gives hope to so many people--is that my freshman class heard the exact same things during this past election: That it is time that we get things done and that we do it together. Now, I believe that once we get past these turbulent times at this point, I do hope we can work together on issues that affect our country, be it immigration reform, investment in our infrastructure, and ensuring that our health care is not just accessible but affordable. But I also realize, as many of you, that that is easier said than done. Yet I believe that to get things done in Congress, you have to treat it like a marathon and not a sprint, and I believe that we begin this race by building relationships. My predecessor, Congressman Sam Farr, spent 23 years representing the place I call home on the central coast of California. He will tell you that for most of that time he was in the minority, yet he was able to get numerous things done; and he will tell you that the way he was able to do it is by relationships, with Democrats and Republicans. I can tell you that Sam's predecessor would say the exact same thing; and I can tell you that Sam's predecessor and his three roommates, whom I was able to live with back in the eighties, would all say the same thing, that it is the personal chemistry amongst people here in Washington, D.C., that will lead to our ability to compromise professionally. That is what we must develop. That is why I am honored and pleased to enter into this commitment of civility, for that is the first ingredient to that chemistry that we must strive for. And I believe that this commitment that we have all taken to each other, to our communities, and to our country, that will lead to our constituents' confidence, not just in Congress, but in our democracy.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Sabu J.R. Shake, the Paisano of the Year, for all that he has done for our community on the central coast of California. The fourth son of Isabella Shake and the late Sabu Shake, Sr. and brother to Benji, David, Chris, Angelo, and Tene, Sabu was born and grew up in Monterey, California. He is the proud father of five children and grandfather of two. From a young age, Sabu understood the value of hard work. He worked at the family restaurant, Old Fisherman's Grotto, as a busboy and worked his way up to become a maitre d', cashier, and manager. Through this experience, he learned all aspects of the restaurant business. Building on his early experience in the hospitality business, Sabu and his brother Chris opened The Fish Hopper restaurant on the historic Cannery Row in 1995. With the huge success of that restaurant, Sabu opened another Fish Hopper in Kona, Hawaii and, recently with Chris, Scales Seafood & Steaks on the Fisherman's Wharf in Monterey. While Sabu is a pillar in the business community, he is also a steadfast servant to the community he calls home. As a past board member of the Boys & Girls Club and current member of the Paisano Club, Chaine des Rotisseurs, Compari Club, Sheriff's Advisory Council, and Italian American Cultural Center Foundation, he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to community service. In memory of his father, Sabu Shake, Sr., Sabu organized the first Sabu's Safari to raise money for The Salvation Army's Monterey Peninsula Corps in 2007. Today, the annual gala is attended by close to 500 people and raises thousands of dollars for The Salvation Army. To date, this event has raised more than $1,725,000. In 2012, Sabu initiated a Turkey Drive challenge by reaching out to friends and business colleagues for donations to purchase turkeys for people in need during the holidays. The Turkey Drive has become an annual tradition which provides nearly 1,500 turkeys every year. Sabu also hosts an annual Christmas Toy Drive. Through that event each year, nearly 300 toys are collected for The Salvation Army to give to children during the holidays. Following Hurricane Iselle, which hit Hawaii in 2014, Sabu raised more than $15,000 for The Salvation Army in Hawaii to aid recovery efforts. Later that fall, Sabu hosted the first annual Red Kettle Kickoff for The Salvation Army at The Fish Hopper in Kona, Hawaii and it was a huge success. Due to his incredible generosity, The Salvation Army gave Sabu the M. Temple Eliott award and The Others Award, which is the highest national award given to a civilian by The Salvation Army. Mr. Speaker, I know the whole U.S. House of Representatives joins me in honoring and congratulating Sabu J.R. Shake on being chosen as the Paisano of the Year. Thank you, Sabu, for your service to our Central Coast and nation

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from California, and I rise today to oppose President Trump's anti-immigrant executive orders and to share with you why I feel these orders harm the people across my district and, ultimately, across our Nation. I am here because my grandfather came here as an Italian immigrant back in 1921. He told us that the reason he came here was to give his children a better life, and he wanted a chance to achieve what I think we all know to be the American Dream. I am here in front of you living the reality of that dream. And that is why I strive every day as best as I can to give back to my country and community here in Washington, D.C., and especially on the central coast of California. I do that not only because of my grandfather, but because it was our forefathers that made it clear that this is a nation, this is a country based on ``We the People.'' And so to me, being in this country, being American, means that all of us bear the burden to serve one another and to welcome those--especially those--who are willing to come here and share in that responsibility. I believe that we should embrace them. I believe that we should embolden them with the opportunities to share in that American Dream. We know that the world looks to the United States for enlightened leadership, but these ill-advised actions send a wrong message about our values as a nation. We are a nation of immigrants. We are stronger because of our diversity and because of the people who have taken the risks to come here just as my grandfather did, to live here and to contribute to our country and our communities. On the central coast of California, that is the heart and soul of that area. I see hardworking men and women who have come to this country to live in it and contribute to it. The two main industries there on the central coast are agriculture and tourism--big industries. There are people, workers, owners who contribute greatly not only to those industries, but to our communities, and they are our neighbors, our friends, our families, our children. They sit next to my two daughters and play with them at school. Clearly, without them, my community would be a shell of its former self. I hear the pain in their voices because they feel that this administration's executive order targets them and makes them feel unwelcome. I see that these types of executive orders drive a wedge in our country, and it drives them further away from participating in our community. Before I was sworn in on January 3 of this year, I was a prosecutor; and for the 5\1/2\ years that I was there at the Monterey County District Attorney's Office, I prosecuted gang crimes. That kind of prosecution, as you can imagine, as you know well, it can be very difficult to have witnesses come forward and participate in one of the cornerstones of our country: our criminal justice system. They are intimidated. They are worried about retribution and retaliation. Yet now, from what I have heard, they are worried not just about criminals; they are worried about the government, the government cracking down on them if they came forward, cracking down on them and sending them back to where they came from. These executive orders discourage participation in our community. Instead, as a nation, we should encourage people to step up, to step forward, and to be a part of our criminal justice system. Last weekend, I met with community members and I heard directly from them about their concerns, and this weekend, I am doing it again. I am holding a townhall to continue this conversation. I believe it is our responsibility to listen to all of our community members and consider the implications of these types of executive orders and the implications that they have on all of our constituents. When the President of the United States was sworn in, he took an oath to protect all members of our Nation by supporting and defending our Constitution. As a Member of Congress, I took an oath to support and defend that very same Constitution. Rest assured, I will honor that oath, and I will honor the oath to my grandfather and to this country by fighting and resisting unconstitutional orders from this or any other President.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak out against President Trump's Muslim ban, an executive order that emboldens our enemies, undermines our alliances, and offends our American values. This ban has, among other things, blocked visas for interpreters from the Middle East, people who risk their lives to save American lives. When I was deployed to Afghanistan as an intelligence officer, I worked with many interpreters; and at first, I realized they not only provided accurate information, they kept us safe. As time went along and I got to know them, what I came to realize is that they were the ones who were unsafe. They were the ones who were risking their lives to save our lives. When I got to know them, I would ask them: Why are you taking this risk? Why are you doing this? And the reason they gave me was similar to the one my grandfather gave me, my Italian immigrant grandfather, as to why he came here to America back in 1921, and that is they came here to give their children a better life. Mr. Speaker, to me, that is the definition of the American Dream. President Trump's executive order not only makes us unsafe, it is against our fundamental values. If people are willing to take risks to live the American Dream, we don't stop them; we welcome them. That is why my family is here. That is why I am here.