Jimmy Panetta

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor a pillar of my district's activist community, Gary Karnes. Throughout his extraordinary life, Gary was the conscience of the local Democratic Party and a cornerstone for promoting, protecting, and perpetuating the values of our country. Gary was born to be an activist. He walked with JFK in the 1950s; he protested the Vietnam war in the 1960s; he stood with farmworkers in the 1970s; and throughout his life, he always fought for peace, human rights, and dignity. The thing about Gary, though, is he knew that American activism is not just about yelling and screaming or just being outraged. Gary understood that it is about doing the hard work, of walking precincts, banging on doors, and bringing out the votes. This included his work of supporting over 70 election campaigns throughout his life. Mr. Speaker, it was not just his advocacy and principles that shaped our local Democratic Party, but Gary Karnes' work and personality added to the collective story of what we stand for as a community, and that is why Gary Karnes helped strengthen our democracy.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight the successful outcome of the first-ever U.S.-Central Asia Leader's Summit. On September 21, 2023, on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly, President Joseph R. Biden met with the Presidents of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan for the inaugural C5+1 Presidential Summit. Since its inception in 2015, the C5+1 platform has increased U.S.- Central Asia dialogue and cooperation to advance an independent, prosperous, and secure Central Asia that addresses common concerns in partnership with the United States. The United States and the C5 stand united and committed to activities in the region that enhance security, improve economic resilience, support sustainable development, combat climate change, and promote peace. Key aspects of the security arrangement discussed at the summit included cooperation on law enforcement through expanded information sharing, cooperation on border security and safe migration, including respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations, and the sharing of best practices on countering terrorism and preventing radicalization. The Parties also agreed to promote the rule of law and improve democratic governance. To that end, the U.S. and Central Asia are determined to accelerate regional cooperation and connectivity. This includes expanding trade routes such as the Trans-Caspian Trade Route (or the ``Middle Corridor''), advancing efforts to create a more favorable business environment for U.S. private sector trade and investment in Central Asia, and working toward establishing permanent normal trade relations (PNTR). The Parties remain dedicated to integrating regional energy systems to diversify and expand new energy export routes and reliably supply global markets, integrating energy systems, increasing clean energy production, and developing and securing critical minerals supply chains The Parties are committed to redoubling efforts to increase clean energy production, mitigate methane emissions, develop sustainable hydropower capacity, and increase energy efficiency, particularly by mobilizing public and private financing for a green energy transition. Through ongoing dialogue and collaborative efforts, the C5+1 can realize its vision for a more resilient, secure, and prosperous Central Asia, and foster closer people-to-people connections between the region and the United States.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I have the distinct honor and privilege of representing California's 19th Congressional District and on behalf of all the residents of the Central Coast, I would like to commend to my colleagues' attention to the 50th Anniversary of Monterey-Salinas Transit District (MST) for providing mobility services to the residents of Monterey County. The Monterey Peninsula Public Transit System Joint Powers Agency was formed by the cities of Carmel, Del Rey Oaks, Monterey, Pacific Grove, Seaside, and Monterey County on October 1, 1972, and began providing service on September 26, 1973. As the predecessor of Monterey-Salinas Transit, it served the Monterey Peninsula area, and later expanded to provide service to the cities of Marina, Salinas, and Watsonville. With the formation of the Monterey-Salinas Transit District on July 1, 2010, MST has served as much as one-fifth of the coastline of California from San Jose in the north to Paso Robles in the south at 1,300 bus stops in 25 communities throughout Monterey, Santa Cruz, Santa Clara, and San Luis Obispo Counties. Through the foresight of the MST board members and the ongoing support of the federal government, transit service in the Monterey Bay region is consistently at the forefront of technology and innovation, with annual ridership reaching as high as 5 million passengers on traditional fixed-route buses as well as Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) paratransit minibus service for disabled customers, the popular MST Trolley system for visitors, ``MST OnCall'' demand response services in south Monterey County, and the JAZZ Bus Rapid Transit system. In 2014, with 73 percent voter support, MST became the first public agency in Monterey County to pass a countywide local funding initiative known as Measure Q to support the mobility needs of veterans, seniors, and persons with disabilities. MST was also the first transit operator in the country to finance and construct a bus operations and maintenance facility utilizing the federal Build America Bureau--Rural Initiative program, and the first transit operator to implement an open-loop, contactless payment system that provides discounted fares to eligible customers. Now for the second half of its first century of operation, MST is moving forward with a slate of new projects and initiatives to support their vision of connecting communities, creating opportunity and being kind to our planet. These include the implementation of the Better Bus Network, the outcome of a yearlong planning effort that will provide the residents of Monterey County with faster, more direct connections to work, school, shopping and medical appointments. The proposed MST SURF! Busway and Bus Rapid Transit will extend the existing JAZZ BRT system 6.5 miles north from Sand City to Marina utilizing bus-only lanes and zero emission vehicles to improving access and opportunities for connections to jobs on the Monterey Peninsula, recreational activities and easy access to educational opportunities including nearby California State University, Monterey Bay. Finally, MST is putting rolling stock and infrastructure in place today that includes enroute inductive charging stations, designing micro-grid technologies, and procuring battery electric buses as it moves to transition to a fleet of 162 buses to planet-friendly 100 percent zero-emission buses powered from renewable sources. In addition, MST is at the forefront of forging partnerships with local stakeholders to expand public transit options throughout the community. This past year, MST celebrated 30 years of partnership with the City of Monterey and Monterey Bay Aquarium in providing fast, fun, and free transit services to visitors and residents alike reducing visitor related traffic congestion, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, and reducing microplastics from vehicles traveling adjacent to the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary. MST's partnerships also extend to local colleges, with a EcoSmart Pass program with California State University-Monterey Bay Hartnell Community College, and Monterey Peninsula Colleges, discount pass programs available to all Monterey County school districts. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to commend the Monterey-Salinas Transit District for providing 50 years of exemplary public service to the Central Coast and ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to wish them well on the next 50 years.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, as we marked the 14th annual ``International Day Against Nuclear Test'' on August 29, I rise to commend the Republic of Kazakhstan's role in nuclear disarmament and its work alongside the United States. I commend Kazakhstan's unwavering commitment to preserving international peace and stability. Upon the dissolution of the former Soviet Union, the Republic of Kazakhstan inherited the fourth largest nuclear arsenal and the Semipalatinsk nuclear weapons test site. In the 4 decades before the fall of the Soviet Union, 456 explosions were carried out at the Semipalatinsk test site, 1 of the largest sites of its kind. These tests caused irreparable damage to human health and the environment, leading to high morbidity and mortality rates among the local population. Despite global pressure and potential political and strategic advantages that this arsenal would provide for Kazakhstan, the newly formed republic understood the potential political, security, and humanitarian issues that could arise if such a nuclear arsenal were maintained. On August 29, 1991, Kazakhstan made the historic decision to decommission the Semipalatinsk nuclear weapons test site. Shortly after, the Nation voluntarily renounced its nuclear weapons arsenal. Kazakhstan's decision demonstrated a clear commitment to the goals of nuclear security and nonproliferation, which became 1 of its landmark policies and was the first in a series of vital measures aimed at achieving a more peaceful international community. Since the site was closed, the United States has partnered with Kazakhstan to eliminate the Soviet legacy of nuclear test infrastructure from Kazakhstan's territory. Kazakhstan and the United States implemented the Cooperative Threat Reduction Program--or the ``Nunn-Lugar'' program--which resulted in the dismantling of nuclear-weapon infrastructure. The states secured and removed residual weapons of mass destruction-related materials and technology from the former nuclear test site. These actions signaled a major shift in the existing global political paradigm and have led to the closure of other major test sites around the world. The Nunn-Lugar decision propelled a collective momentum for the global ban of nuclear testing, and it paved the way for the adoption of the 1996 Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty. Today, when the risk of using nuclear weapons has come under increased scrutiny, it is important to remind the global community of the dangers that weapons of mass destruction pose to our safety and future. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in reaffirming the United States' commitment to the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty and working alongside Kazakhstan to strengthen the global regime for the nonproliferation of weapons of mass destruction and the achievement of a nuclear-weapon-free future.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Michael Robbins for his bravery and service as a U.S. merchant mariner during World War II. Serving from July of 1943 to May of 1946, Mr. Robbins sailed with the U.S. Merchant Marine aboard the SS Olney, the SS Pendleton, the SS O. Henry, and the SS Hoke Smith. During World War II, nearly 250,000 civilian merchant mariners were activated to serve as part of the U.S. military and to delivered troops and supplies by ship to foreign countries engulfed in the war. They faced treacherous conditions along their routes. Between 1939 and 1945, 9,521 U.S. merchant mariners gave their lives--a higher proportion than those killed than in any military branch--in defense of our nation. President Franklin D. Roosevelt called their mission the most difficult and dangerous transportation job ever undertaken. Hailing from Atlantic City, New Jersey, Mr. Robbins enlisted in the U.S. Merchant Marine at only 15 years old. He began his wartime efforts as an ordinary seaman, chipping away rust and old paint from the ship. While aboard SS O. Henry and transporting supplies in the Mediterranean Sea, his convoy was attacked by air. Mr. Robbins, still a teenager, acted to defend his ship by delivering 20mm ammunition to the ship's crew. Mr. Robbins would go on to serve in the Atlantic, Mediterranean, and Pacific theaters. Mr. Robbins received several decorations during his service, including 3 War Zone medals awarded to Merchant Marines for their service in the Pacific, the Atlantic, and the Mediterranean and Middle East. He also received the World War II Victory Medal for honorable service while on active duty, the Philippine Liberation Ribbon, the Combat Bar, the Honorable Service Button, a Presidential Testimonial Letter, and the Battlin' Pete Patch. Mr. Robbins and the U.S. merchant mariners of World War II who played crucial roles in the country's war effort were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 2020, the highest honor Congress can bestow on civilians. It was an honor to present the medal to Mr, Robbins then, and it is an honor to recognize him here again today. Mr. Speaker, I invite my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to join me in honoring and celebrating the dedicated service of Mr. Michael Robbins for his valor and service in defending our country. May his legacy continue to inspire us for generations to come.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the service and the legacy of the United States Army's 54th Coast Artillery Regiment that served during World War II. As the Army's only all-Black heavy artillery regiment in World War II, they were given used weapons and secondhand uniforms from World War I. Despite that lack of fancy gear and guns, the men of the 54th stood firm and stood fast as they guarded the entire central coast of California, from San Francisco Bay to Port San Luis, from Morro Bay to Monterey Bay, and from Lighthouse Point in Santa Cruz to Point Pinos Lighthouse in Pacific Grove. Through their service, but also through their social lives, the soldiers impacted and became entwined in our community. They formed a local baseball league during their assignment, and after their service some even returned to the Central Coast to serve our community. Mr. Speaker, the history of the all-Black 54th Coast Artillery Regiment is not just important to the 19th Congressional District, but it is about the broader story of our military. Americans of all levels, all races, all genders, all creeds coming together to fulfill their responsibility of living in our democracy by defending our communities and serving our country.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the soldiers who served during World War II in the United States Army's 54th Coast Artillery Regiment. The 54th was the U.S. Army's only all-Black heavy artillery regiment and it shared the mission of defending the central coast of California from enemy attack. This historic regiment defended the Golden Gate Bridge, the San Francisco Harbor, and Monterey Bay, in addition to the millions of tons of cargo and munitions coming out of the port. Further down the coastline, the 54th defended coastal oil terminals at Morro Bay and Port San Luis. The Monterey Bay was particularly vulnerable to Japanese invasion due to its gently inclining shoreline and ready access to a major coastal highway. Activated at Camp Wallace, Texas on February 10, 1941, the 54th was comprised of Black soldiers from Texas, Kansas, and Missouri. Despite that these troops were armed and clothed with used weapons and secondhand uniforms dating to World War I, they did not complain and served with pride and distinction. After completing their training at Fort Fisher in late February of 1942, the 1st Battalion and 3rd Battalion of the Regiment were ordered to Fort Cronkhite in San Francisco, California. Until April of 1944, these two battalions rotated along the Central Coast shoreline batteries and manned the coastal artillery weapons at Point Pinos Lighthouse in Pacific Grover shortly after Pearl Harbor Attack on December 7, 1941. Additionally, many soldiers of the 54th were former Negro Baseball League players. While stationed in Pacific Grove, the soldiers formed a community baseball league. They named it the Twilight League because all the lights in the seaside town were turned off at sunset for increased security from the Japanese. On April 19, 1944, the 1st Battalion and 3rd Battalion were relieved from duty on the Western Defense Command as the threat of Japanese attacks on the West Coast diminished. Although they have since disbanded, the legacy and influence of the 54th Regiment lives on in the memory of our Central Coast communities. Many troops returned to the Central Coast after the Allied Powers emerged victorious and were active, integral members of our community. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to join me in recognizing the U.S. Army's 54th Coast Artillery Regiment in honor of their lasting impact on the Central Coast and our Nation's history. We are forever grateful for their service and bravery in World War II and in the defense of our coastline. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor them here today.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, it is not every day that we can come together on such a straightforward issue, and I urge my colleagues to support this commonsense, bipartisan legislation, the Paperwork Burden Reduction Act. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, let me first thank Chairman Smith, not only for articulating the exact reasons as to why we must support the Paperwork Burden Reduction Act, but for sharing this opportunity to co-lead on such a commonsense measure that will benefit taxpayers, not just in my Congressional District, the 19th District in California, but so many people all across this country. The bipartisan Paperwork Burden Reduction Act will ease confusion for taxpayers by reducing the paperwork that is necessary for filing taxes for small business employers and their employees. Under current law, employers must send a 1095 tax form to employees to verify their health coverage for the previous year. However, for many employees, the IRS no longer requires this form for them to complete their taxes. So the Paperwork Burden Reduction Act would allow employers to provide a 1095-B or a 1095-C form upon request from employees, rather than mandating it and wasting time, wasting money, and wasting paper. It is a bill that is popular, not just among taxpayers, but Democrats and Republicans alike, as demonstrated by its passage out of the Ways and Means Committee without a single vote in opposition. It is understandable why it is so popular because the one thing that we can all agree on is that we need to reduce unnecessary burdens on taxpayers and small businesses. Now, although the Biden administration has already ordered this, I am proud to join Chairman Smith and put that order into statute, and I would urge my colleagues to vote for the Paperwork Burden Reduction Act. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I unfortunately was unable to be present for the votes today due to commitments in my Congressional District. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on rollcall No. 238, ``yea'' on rollcall No. 239, and ``yea'' on rollcall No. 240.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I recognize Ann Berry, who, for the past 44 years, affected the lives of students, teachers, and families in the Carmel Unified School District. This month, Ms. Berry is retiring as Carmel High School's attendance secretary, where she ensured that students not only attended school but enjoyed school. She started in 1979 as a parent who showed up to ensure that her daughter wasn't skipping class. She did such a good job in that role that Carmel High School hired her to keep other students in school. It was a vocation for Ms. Berry that affected thousands of other Padres, including my two older brothers, myself, and now my two daughters, who attend Carmel High School. Through her work, our community relied on Ms. Berry as a cop for keeping kids in class, as a comedian for keeping kids happy, as a counselor well aware of teen mental health concerns, as a coach for common sense, and as a supporter of Padre athletic and academic success. For four decades, Ms. Berry was that dependable school administrator. She was that voice of reason for parents, and she is that trusted adult for teenagers. As one of her students and now as her Congressman, I thank and congratulate Ms. Ann Berry for her service, for her support, and for being that solid cornerstone of the Carmel High community.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the students and allies who marked the National Day of Silence. On this day, people around the country and in California's 19th Congressional District stand in solidarity with the LGBTQ community by taking a vow of silence. By doing this, students raise awareness on the challenges and the hurdles that continue to face our LGBTQ youth and their fellow classmates. One inspiring young leader in my district is Latisha Vivian Chen Gladney from Santa Cruz High School. Latisha explained that it is still a struggle to get their voices heard in their fight for equal rights. Yet, it is through their act of silence that they can represent their community, recognize the people before us who fought for LGBTQ rights, and be reinvigorated to continue our fight to educate future generations. So thanks to Latisha and others who, through their silence, are giving a voice to so many people and inspiring us in Congress to empower students in our communities, protect them from discrimination and harassment, and to provide the LGBTQ community with the support that they need to feel safe and secure in our classrooms, out in our community, and all across our country.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to this resolution because American solar companies need the delay on solar tariffs so that they can keep up with the American demand for clean energy. If we repeal this delay with this CRA, the American solar industry could be hit with more than $1 billion--with a b, billion--in retroactive duties, taxes that would cause cancellations and supply chain issues, stall solar deployment, and set us back on our clean energy goals. Look, we have already seen, just with the threat of these tariffs, a 30 percent decrease in solar deployment last year. Of course, we want to strategically decouple from China, I believe especially with their solar pieces, parts, and equipment. However, American solar companies need more time to adapt, adjust, and reduce Chinese inputs in solar panels. I also realize that we need to do more to bolster our domestic solar manufacturing, but that is why we recently made significant investments for domestic credits. However, if we allow these retroactive tariffs to take place now, it would deprive our solar industry of the incentive to invest in our manufacturing projects at home. That is why we need this delay, and that is why this delay was the right call, not just by this administration but it is also the right call so the American solar industry can catch up to our domestic demands, so Americans can continue to speed up their solar deployment, and America can continue to step up when it comes to the continued success of our economy and the future of our sustainability. Mr. Speaker, that is why I urge a ``no'' vote on this CRA.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to the Limit, Save, and Grow Act. As a member of the Ways and Means Committee and Budget Committee, as much as I want to take serious steps to lower our debt and deficit, this legislation is not serious, it is not bipartisan, and it leaves us with a partisan hit list. I say that because of the way it is written. It would increase hunger and deprive low-income citizens of healthcare. It would make significant cuts to critical government services that could lead to the loss of 780,000 jobs. It would cut IRS funding needed to close the tax gap and collect taxes owed. It would do nothing to raise revenues, and it would do nothing to find common ground on permitting reform. It would target the cornerstone of the industrial policy that we created last term to lower our carbon output by repealing clean energy tax credits. Solutions to the debt crisis need to be serious, not partisan. This bill brings us closer to default by demanding partisan policies that will never pass the Senate. I will vote ``no'' on this bill, but I do look forward to raising the debt ceiling and then having serious conversations about how we can ensure that Congress gets serious about a solution to our debt and deficit reduction.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Chair, my amendment to H.R. 21 would exclude the central California planning area from being leased for oil and natural gas production. The central California planning area extends from Mendocino County to Monterey County and goes out about 400 miles off the coast of California. Although much of this area is already protected by national marine sanctuaries, my amendment, if attached to H.R. 21, would bolster those protections from oil and gas drilling and stretch them further from our coastline. Having been raised there, raising my children there, and now as the Representative for the central coast of California, I know firsthand how important our oceans and our coastlines are for our environment, for our economy, for our small businesses, for our communities, and, yes, for our future. That is why I stand here on the shoulders of so many people who have done so many things to ensure the protection of our pristine coastline in California. From utilizing zoning laws to limiting onshore infrastructure and the designation of national marine sanctuaries, we have fought and will continue to fight to ensure that oil drilling does not happen off our California coast. That is why this amendment is so important to me and to my constituents. Of course, my constituents are concerned with high gas prices, especially when there is an international conflict that causes gas prices to go through the roof. The strategy of releasing oil from the strategic reserve, specifically during those types of international conflicts, has been used time and time again. In 1991, George H.W. Bush did it during the Gulf war. In 2005, George W. Bush did it during the second Gulf war. In 2011, President Obama did it due to the Libya crisis. In 2022, President Biden did it due to Russia's unprovoked and unjustified invasion of Ukraine. Each time that oil was released from those reserves, gas prices were reduced or remained stable. That is why I support this long-used strategy without any types of conditions attached to it. The last thing we want to do is restrict the types of tools used in the middle of a global crisis so that the President, this administration, can lower gas prices and help American families. Let's be clear. Our families, my families that I represent on the central coast of California, we don't need drilling; we don't want oil drilling; and we will continue to do everything we can to prevent oil drilling off our coastline. Our beauty and the bounty received through our multibillion-dollar tourism and hospitality industry is worth so much more. The future. That is why I will always be against any oil and gas drilling off the central coast of California, and why I will always be a part of the longstanding tradition of fighting to protect our environment and the future of the place that I, my family, and my constituents call home. Mr. Chair, that is why I urge a ``yes'' vote on amendment No. 26, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I have an amendment at the desk, specifically No. 26.

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Chair, I demand a recorded vote.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight the heroism of Paul Bandy; his wife, Aimee Johns; and Heath Braddock. On a clear summer day last year, Steve Breummer, a triathlete, was doing his routine swim about 150 yards off the coast in Monterey Bay when he was attacked by a great white shark. Pulled under water, bitten across his thigh and abdomen, and bleeding profusely, Steve saw the cold black eye of that predator, fought him off, and yelled for help. Paul, a police officer, and Aimee, a nurse, heard the cries and paddleboarded to the victim. Heath, who was onshore, grabbed a surfboard and joined in the rescue. Even though there was blood on top of the water and a shark lurked under the water, all three heroes were undeterred, got to Steve, got him out of the water, and saved his life. For their actions, the rescuers have been honored by the Red Cross and the Carnegie Commission. Steve, although not yet doing triathlons, is walking and swimming again. Today, Mr. Speaker, I honor all of them for the determination to fight in the face of danger; for their will to act, despite it being to their detriment; and fulfilling what it means to be a hero in our community on the central coast and in our country.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to H.R. 23 because our government needs the resources to go after wealthy tax cheats who defraud the government. Because people don't pay their taxes, the Federal Government is cheated out of at least $400 billion each year. In fact, President Trump's IRS Commissioner said that number could be as high as $1 trillion every year. That significant source of revenue could go to paying our bills, paying down our debt, and propping up the power of our purse. That is exactly why we passed legislation last year that made significant investments to crack down on tax cheats. That funding will not be used for families or small businesses making less than $400,000. Instead, it will be used to go after those who have the wealth to pay their taxes but don't or those who can pay for armies of accountants to get out of paying for what they should. H.R. 23 rescinds that funding for that type of needed enforcement, and that is why I oppose it. Our government should have the resources necessary to ensure that it is not just the middle class that pays our bills and pays our debt, but the wealthy tax dodgers pay their taxes, just like play-by-the-rules, hardworking Americans.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Madam Speaker, let me start off by expressing my gratitude for Chairman Neal, for his seriousness, his sincerity, and his solemnity in his leadership in the Ways and Means Committee and in the way he conducted this request and release of the former President's tax returns and the writing of this legislation before us. Because of him, throughout this odyssey, the members of the Ways and Means Committee always knew and felt the gravity, the implications of what it meant to release an individual's tax returns. In fact, prior to this weekend, which was prior to my review of the former President's tax returns, I admit, I had no intent on voting to release them. However, that changed. That changed once we were able to obtain the returns, based on a valid legislative purpose and confirmed by the Supreme Court, go through the returns, and see the complete failure of the IRS when it comes to their Presidential audit program, a program that is absolutely necessary to ensure that the world's most important public servant is abiding by the law, paying his or her taxes like you and me, and free from any conflicts of interest. But clearly, the IRS doesn't appreciate, nor does it prioritize the importance of this program, especially during the last administration because, as applied to the former President, not one audit was completed, despite what the President said to the American public. That is why I support this legislation, so that any President's personal and business tax returns are audited and made public, and we are aware of those returns that are audited. I am proud to say that under the leadership and seriousness of Chairman Neal, now Congress needs to do its job and pass H.R. 9640.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Madam Speaker, I thank the chairwoman for her leadership. Madam Speaker, I rise today to support H.R. 8622 that would designate the Chief Rudy Banuelos U.S. Post Office in King City, California. I authored and support this bill because Chief Banuelos was a veteran, a postmaster, and an absolutely thick pillar of our community. Rudolph Banuelos was born in 1927 to immigrants who came here from Mexico, who worked in agriculture, and raised their family in the Salinas Valley. Rudy was a proud Mustang at King City High. Yet, in 1941, due to the attack on Pearl Harbor, Rudy left that high school at the age of 17, got on a motorcycle with his buddy, drove up to San Francisco, where he enlisted in the United States Coast Guard. He served on Active Duty in World War II. He then served in the reserves reaching the rank of chief petty officer. It was then for 40 years he was a recognized recruiter in King City. Although he was chief, he maintained that title because of his service with the United States Postal Service. Starting off as a letter carrier, he worked his way up to be named the postmaster in King City. Chief Banuelos made sure that as postmaster, neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night prevented his postal carriers from swiftly completing their appointed rounds. As postmaster, Chief Banuelos understood and upheld the basic function but also the difficult responsibility of the Postal Service to provide prompt, reliable, and efficient postal services in our community so that our Nation is bound together through the personal, educational, literary, and business correspondence of its people. He was a fixture in the community where he was simply known as ``Chief.'' Chief Banuelos passed away November of 2021, but he is survived by his wife, Joanne, and their three children. He is remembered throughout the community for his years of service to his country and the King City. Madam Speaker, Chief is the type of person, the type of postmaster we should be honoring; local heroes who make a difference in the lives of their neighbors. I am honored to author this bill that would give the pillar of my community the recognition he deserves. H.R. 8622 would dedicate the same post office where he served to Chief Rudy Banuelos.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Tom DiMaggio of Monterey, California, as he celebrates his 100th birthday on November 18, 2022. Mr. DiMaggio is a stalwart of the Monterey Peninsula, and his efforts to lift up our community has already secured his legacy in Central Coast history. In an effort to provide a better life for her son, Mr. DiMaggio's mother, Maria Radiatti, worked tirelessly to send him to the United States before he was conscripted into the fascist dictator Benito Mussolini's military. Leaving his home country of Italy behind, Mr. DiMaggio joined his extended family in Monterey and worked to turn the fishing hobby of his childhood into a career. Mr. DiMaggio relocated to Alaska to pursue his fishing career, and for the next 50 years after returning home to Monterey, Mr. DiMaggio captained many vessels, including the Tommy D, the Ronnie F, the Sockeye, the Swan, and the Sea Queen. Throughout his career, Mr. DiMaggio was a well-known and respected figure in the Alaska and Monterey fishing communities. Outside his distinguished fIshing career, Mr. DiMaggio is a dedicated family man and active community member. On April 24, 1949, Mr. DiMaggio and Eva DiMecurio married, and together, they raised three children: Tommy, Marilyn, and Sal, as well as one granddaughter, Meredith. In 2019, the couple celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary. Throughout their lifetime together, Tom and Eva have proven their dedication to our community by donating their time and talents to the Sanctuary Bible Church in Carmel Valley and as members of the ``Giovanottis,'' a charitable group that provides dinners to the community. Currently, Mr. DiMaggio is an active member of the Italian Catholic Federation, the Compare Club, the Elks Lodge, and Festa Italia, of which he was named the Grand Marshal for the 2010 parade. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me in recognizing Mr. Tom DiMaggio for his extraordinary and celebrated life. As he celebrates his 100th birthday, Mr. DiMaggio continues to inspire the Central Coast for generations to come. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor him today.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Mr. Dennis Caprara, who passed away on April 12, 2021. The Salad Bowl of the World lost a key ingredient with the passing of Mr. Caprara, a revered industry leader and farmer in the Salinas Valley. In his 74 years, Mr. Caprara contributed so much to our leading industry of agriculture and our fundamental identity in the Salinas Valley. A true local boy, Dennis grew up in Gonzales, California, where he grew fond of farming and grew to appreciate the hard work and sound judgment necessary to succeed in agriculture. Founding RC Farms and RC Packing, Mr. Caprara and his family became the definition of what it means to be a successful family farm. But Dennis Caprara was not just a farmer, he was a leader. He served as Chairman of the Grower-Shipper Association, director of the Salinas Valley River Coalition, and as a distinguished fellow at a local college. Over the years, he received many honors and awards, such as: CSUMB Distinguished Fellow-Ag Businessman of the Year, Salinas Area Chamber of Commerce Agriculture Leadership Award, and Future Farmers of America Honorary Chapter Farmer. Dennis also gave back to the community that gave him so much. He was a member of the Swiss Rifle Club and always attended the local livestock auctions where he and his wife, Janice, were active bidders, supporting the young leaders of 4H and Future Farmers of America. Mr. Caprara was a friend and a mentor to many, including myself. He offered so much to those who knew him, who worked with him, who listened to him, and who loved him. Madam Speaker, today we mourn the loss of Dennis Caprara. But because of Dennis, every day we realize that the Salad Bowl of life tastes so good, not just because of its products, but also because of its people.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to remember and honor the life of Mr. Billy F. DeBerry, who passed away on September 17, 2022. A local legend and inspiration to our community, Mr. DeBerry's life and enduring contributions made a positive impact to many of my constituents across the Monterey Peninsula. Born on February 7, 1939, in Denmark, Tennessee, Mr. DeBerry spent most of his life in Seaside, California. While working at Alabama State College, Mr. DeBerry and his wife were recruited by Mr. Charlie Knight, marking the beginning of a 32-year-long, influential career with the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District. Mr. DeBerry's prolific career with Monterey Peninsula Unified School District began when he was hired as a professional school counselor for Martin Luther King, Jr. High School in 1968. Two years later, he was promoted to Assistant Principal at Monterey High School, and four years later, he was promoted to Principal. In 1987, Billy joined the Central Office of MPUSD as Director of Personnel and Assistant Superintendent of Personnel. In 1991, he was promoted to Associate Superintendent and would eventually become Superintendent of Schools in 1994. It was this position that Mr. DeBerry would hold until his retirement in 2000. Throughout Billy's career, he exemplified high standards of integrity, discipline, inclusiveness, and most importantly, compassion. Most notably, Mr. DeBerry worked diligently and tirelessly to become the first and only African American Superintendent of the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District. These high standards extended beyond his role as Superintendent. Mr. DeBerry worked to lift up the Central Coast through his important and influential positions on the Advisory Board for California State University Monterey Bay Institute for Community Collaborative Studies, the City of Seaside's Mayor's Advisory Committee on Government Efficiency, the Citizens Advisory Committee to the Community Development Program, the Monterey County Civil Grand Jury, the Monterey County Equal Opportunity Advisory Commission, the Monterey County Sheriff's Office Commission, and the Monterey County Economic Development Commission. Madam Speaker, Mr. Billy DeBerry was the type of dedicated community member, leader, and educator we should all strive to be. His legacy is a shining example and inspiration to us all to become more involved in our communities. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor him here today.

Mr. PANETTA

Mr. PANETTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Chris Shake and Mr. Sabu Shake, Jr. for their contributions to the central coast of California and to celebrate 15 years of their annual philanthropy, ``Sabu's Safari.'' Mr. Chris Shake and Mr. Sabu Shake, Jr. are sons of Sabu Shake, Sr., a well-known restaurateur, family man, and philanthropist, who passed away on December 5, 1998. In his memory, on the first-year anniversary of Mr. Shake, Sr.'s death, the brothers created the Sabu Shake Memorial Fundraiser to assist families during the holiday season. In 2002, it was decided that the Salvation Army Monterey Corps, one of their father's favorite charities, would become the sole recipient of funds raised in memory of Mr. Shake, Sr. In 2008, the brothers created the dinner and auction event called ``Sabu's Safari'' to raise additional funds for the Salvation Army. The inaugural dinner was attended by over 300 members of the Monterey community. For its first two years, Sabu's Safari was hosted at what is now the Monterey Zoo, and soon the fundraiser outgrew the venue, but the name stuck. Sabu's Safari is now a community institution, attended by more people every year and, to date, has raised more than $1,725,000 for the Salvation Army Monterey Corps. Through the brothers' generous spirits and commitment to community, Sabu's Safari and other Shake family fundraisers have raised over $5.7 million for Salvation Army Monterey Corps. Over the years, these funds have helped many local families and children in need through daily hot meals and food boxes, showers, laundry, computers, and job assistance at the Sabu Shake Jr. Good Samaritan Center in Sand City, adjacent to what is now known as ``Shake Avenue.'' Today, on October 1, 2022, the gala takes place for the 15th and final time. The perennially sold-out event marks the end of an era for the Shake brothers, but their legacy of philanthropy and community values will live on. Madam Speaker, it is my pleasure to recognize Mr. Chris Shake and Mr. Sabu Shake, Jr's impact on our community and the Central Coast. I extend my personal gratitude for their inspiring generosity and many philanthropic and civic contributions. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor the Shake family here today.