Linda Sánchez

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the anniversary of the pogrom that took place in Sumgait, Azerbaijan against people of Armenian descent. A pogrom is a violent riot aimed at massacre or persecution of an ethnic or religious group. On the evening of February 27, 1988 hundreds of Armenians were massacred in the seaside town of Sumgait in Soviet Azerbaijan. This violence against Armenians continued for three days and resulted in the reported killing of 32 people, with countless others that remain unaccounted for. It is my hope that by speaking out publicly against atrocities suffered by our brethren around the world, we will help reaffirm America's commitment to an enduring, peaceful and democratic resolution. I ask that my colleagues join me in solemnly commemorating the death of these innocent lives. My thoughts are with the Armenian community, especially those that lost loved ones during the pogrom at Sumgait 26 years ago.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I congratulate Mr. Jake Ignacio Alarid on his 80th birthday, which will be on February 1, 2014. Mr. Alarid has a lifetime of achievements in service to his country and his community, and I am proud to work with him on issues facing veterans in Los Angeles. Born in 1936, Jake is the oldest of thirteen children. Jake displayed spirit and independence at a young age, taking jobs on cattle drives and working the family farm to help support his siblings. In 1953, Jake was drafted to serve in the Korean War. He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and was deployed to Okinawa and Iwo Jima, Japan, to support the Prisoner Exchange in Inchon, Korea. Three years later, Jake received an Honorable Discharge as a Sergeant and proud Hispanic veteran. After relocating to Los Angeles, California, Jake completed his Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Engineering at Northrup Aeronautical Institute. In 1964, he went on to work as a reliability test engineer on the Apollo program, which included the Apollo 11 Moon landing mission and Apollo 13. Jake later worked on the Space Shuttle program as a Manager in Space Shuttle Test Operations. After 34 years of service, Jake retired from Rockwell International. In addition to his strong work ethic, Jake has also demonstrated leadership in the G.I. Forum, a veterans' and civil rights organization, and the largest Federally Chartered Hispanic Veterans organization in the U.S. He was elected as the National Commander for the American G.I. Forum from 1983-1984, and again from 1994-1998. As Commander, Jake met with Presidents Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton to discuss issues facing Hispanic veterans. He was selected by the Department of Defense and State to participate in fact-finding missions to Bosnia, Hungary, Poland, the Czech Republic, and Iraq. He has encouraged young students to continue their education and pursue careers that would further their goals, including careers in the military, just as the Marines helped launch his own career. Following his years as National Commander, Jake continued to remain an active advocate, serve as a voice for veterans, and recognize the contributions made by the Hispanic community. Jake has been an advocate of education as a way for people, especially Hispanics, to excel and be successful in life. Jake remains an active member of my own Veteran's Committee, carrying on as a voice for our new generation of veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. Mr. Speaker, Jake Ignacio Alarid is a man who has selflessly given his time and efforts to the Los Angeles community and to Hispanic veterans across the country. He has become an icon in our community and has impacted the lives of countless men, women, and children during his lifetime. Jake exemplifies the true meaning of service to one's country and service to others, and for that his community is grateful. I respectfully ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in wishing Jake a very happy 80th birthday.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to lend a voice to the 1.5 million workers who have lost their Federal unemployment benefits. Imagine a choice before you where you had to either put food on the table or have a roof over your head. This is the decision that millions of workers, including 53,000 people in L.A. County alone, will face, all because my colleagues on the other side of the aisle refused to extend unemployment insurance benefits. Last week, I had an opportunity to talk personally with constituents who are affected by the loss of these benefits. Their message for me to send to my colleagues was clear: We are not lazy or unmotivated. We want to work. But as we continue to navigate a tough labor market, we need these benefits in order to provide for our families and to pay for the gas and phone bills that help us talk to potential employers and get ourselves to interviews. Mr. Speaker, unemployment benefits are not handouts. These are benefits workers have earned. They paid into the system to help them precisely during times like this. It is time to stop disrespecting these people who are continuing to try to find work by mischaracterizing them as lazy or somehow fat and happy living on unemployment benefits. One of my constituents, in particular, Anthony, wanted me to make crystal clear the fact that he resents those who say that is he not trying hard enough to find a job. He has a bachelor's degree in finance from Cal State Long Beach and has worked as an accountant in the private sector. In his 47 years on Earth, he has never once been unemployed until now, and he has been trying everything he can to find work, but hasn't found anything yet. He told me that every morning he gets up and goes to a work center to search the online listings, and that the 20 computers at this particular work center are always full, and every single person at one of those computers is actively looking for work. Mr. Speaker, unemployment insurance benefits are a lifeline to families who are struggling. Please don't cut off this critical lifeline. Give unemployment insurance the vote that it deserves.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Angela Acosta-Salazar, a member of the Rio Hondo College Board of Trustees, for her tireless work in increasing access to higher education. Professionally, Angela has committed herself to the issues of higher education and community empowerment. Through her service as Trustee she fostered relationships and strengthened communications between the college and its student body. As an educator, Angela has educated hundreds of students in the Social Sciences and has created a space that encouraged personal development and academic excellence. As a public servant, Angela has generously dedicated her time to the Rio Hondo College Foundation. Having served as a Los Angeles Community College District adjunct instructor for over ten years, her commitment to education should be an inspiration to all at Rio Hondo College. Although she now completes nine years of service to Rio Hondo College's Board of Trustees, she leaves behind a legacy and a mission that will not end when she steps down. Mr. Speaker and distinguished colleagues, please join me in honoring Ms. Angela Acosta-Salazar. Let us congratulate her on her many accomplishments to the Rio Hondo Community College District and our community. We wish her good health and success in all future endeavors.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Frank Leal Elementary School for being named a 2013 National Blue Ribbon School. This is a remarkable honor that deserves our recognition and praise. Frank Leal Elementary School is in Cerritos, California and was among three Los Angeles County schools named as a National Blue Ribbon School. This prestigious award is given in recognition to schools where students perform at remarkably high levels or where significant improvements are being made in students' academic achievement. Leal Elementary School was recognized as a ``blue ribbon'' honoree because it ranked among the highest-performing schools on state assessments in language arts and mathematics, achieving an Academic Performance Index score of 972. That's nearly 200 points higher than the state average of 789. This award would not have been possible without the tireless dedication of teachers, counselors, parents, and, of course, the brilliant students at Leal Elementary School. Countless Leal parents will one day see their children attend and graduate from college, fostering future generations of service-oriented, civically engaged Cerritos residents. The National Blue Ribbon recognition is just one of many more milestones to be achieved by these bright young scholars. The community pride they have created through their exemplary achievement encourages students in our communities to strive for even greater academic success. For that reason, I would like to recognize Frank Leal Elementary School for being named a National Blue Ribbon School.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Tom Robinson for his public service to the people of La Mirada, California. Tom began with the city in 1985 as the Community Resource Manager and, in 2008, Tom was appointed City Manager. After 27 productive years of service to La Mirada and its residents, Tom has retired. During his tenure with the City of La Mirada, Tom always provided strong leadership and knowledgeable direction for major projects. Those numerous projects included the City's Community Services Master Plan, the Social Services Model Plan, and the development of the Splash! La Mirada Regional Aquatics Center. Over the past decade, Tom has worked tirelessly to ensure La Mirada operates on firm financial footing and never outside its fiscal means. While the struggling economy has impacted many cities throughout Southern California, La Mirada has managed to maintain funding for all city services and capital improvement projects and Tom is a big reason why. It's no surprise La Mirada was listed by CNN and Money Magazine as one of the ``Best Places to Live'' in 2007. As an active civic member, he has served as a member of the American Society for Public Administration, an accredited member of the Public Relations Society of America, and a member and former president of the Rotary Club of La Mirada. Robinson has been recognized by the California Association of Public Information Officials (CAPIO). The award recognizes exceptional service and career achievement by public communicators. From one public servant to another, I praise Tom Robinson and commend him on his many years of outstanding public service and dedication to the City of La Mirada and its residents. Let us wish him and his family the very best in retirement.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, today I am here to congratulate Cristian Roldan, who is the recipient of the 2012-2013 Gatorade National Boys Soccer Player of the Year Award. This is an amazing feat that deserves our recognition. In 1985, The Gatorade Company established an award to recognize high school athletes across the country. Since then, more than 12,500 students have been honored with the award of State Player of the Year and 250 National Players of the Year. This prestigious list includes many top professional athletes such as Payton Manning, Lisa Leslie, and Derek Jeter. The Gatorade Player of the Year award is presented to high school athletes that have achieved athletic excellence as well as high standards of academic achievement and model character on and off the field. Cristian was selected as the National Player of the Year out of 400,000 boys high school soccer players. Cristian, recently graduated from El Rancho High School in Pico Rivera, CA. Cristian; a 5-foot-7, 165-pound midfielder; was without a doubt the catalyst of the El Rancho Dons boys' soccer team this past season leading them to a 29-2-1 record and the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) Southern Section Division III title. Scoring 54 goals and 31 assists, he also helped the Dons capture the Division I title at the CIF Southern California Regional Soccer Championships. As the season came to a successful end, Cristian was awarded Most Valuable Player of the CIF Southern Section Division Ill. In addition to his success on the soccer field, Cristian was a three- year varsity volleyball player, all while earning a 3.74 GPA his senior year. Cristian is a member of the California Scholarship Federation for his academic excellence and serves as a peer mentor in his spare time. Cristian has displayed his exemplary character by serving as a volunteer coach for the American Youth Soccer Organization, participating in the El Rancho's Blue Pride service project, and for being a member of the Dons' College Bound Athletes Committee. Cristian is the fourth boys Gatorade National Player of the Year from California and the first from Los Angeles County. Cristian intends to play soccer on an athletic scholarship at the University of Washington this fall. What Cristian has achieved is something that deserves our recognition today. Cristian has displayed great academic and athletic achievement. I would like to recognize and congratulate Cristian Roldan for receiving the Gatorade National Player of the Year Award. I wish him a successful college career at the University of Washington.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the life of Lillian Kawasaki, who proudly served the Los Angeles community for more than three decades, working tirelessly to protect our environment. Lillian was an inspiration and a trailblazer. In 1990, she was named general manager of the Department of Environmental Affairs for the City of Los Angeles, becoming the first Asian American in city history to be appointed a department chief. It is because of Lillian's leadership and her vision that Los Angeles launched major initiatives in air and water quality protection and environmental cleanup. Local businesses began investing in renewable energy thanks to Lillian Kawasaki. I had the privilege of working with Lillian when she served as board director for the Water Replenishment District. It would be hard to find a public official more involved in her community than Lillian was. On a personal note, it was an honor for me to call her a close friend. Lillian was an extraordinarily giving person. She always remembered birthdays and anniversaries. She asked me often how my family and my son were doing because she truly cared. I offer my condolences to Lillian's husband, to her family, and to her loved ones. She was a tremendous public servant, a shining example for others, and a generous and truly kind human being, and I will miss her greatly.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life and service of a young man who lost his life battling the recent wildfires in Arizona. Kevin Woyjeck was a member of the Granite Mountain Hotshot Squad of Prescott, Arizona, whose life was tragically lost along with 18 of his colleagues while fighting to protect those in danger from this blaze. He, and his entire squad, bravely put their lives at risk, and all but one paid the ultimate price. Kevin, the son of Captain Joe Woyjeck of the Los Angeles County Fire Station, was only 21 years old when he lost his life. Growing up in Southern California, he was passionate about one day becoming a professional firefighter, a dream realized by serving as a member of such an elite squad. He and his colleagues trained hard to be the first line of defense against dangerous fires, and during the recent blazes they fought in brutal conditions to stop the advancement and destruction of the wildfire. For days they fought to contain the flames, but on Sunday, June 30, the fire surrounded them and proved impossible to escape. We recognize the lives and bravery of Kevin and his team. Our hearts and thoughts go out to his family and all those affected by the loss of these brave men. We know that while they are no longer with us, their work and courage will never be forgotten. Kevin's life was taken too soon, but he made his family and his country proud. He accomplished so much in his 21 years, and we will always remember his sacrifice.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, on April 26, 2013 the House of Representatives passed H.R. 527--the Responsible Helium Administration and Stewardship Act. During that roll call, I inadvertently voted against the bill. I rise today in support of H.R. 527. The Responsible Helium Administration and Stewardship Act is a common sense plan to sell helium from the Federal Helium Reserve in a responsible manner to prevent a global shortage, protect jobs and the economy, and ensure a fairer return for taxpayers. This bill provides a positive alternative to authorizing a continuation of the current program. H.R. 527 prevents an extremely small number of companies from controlling a significant segment of the U.S. economy that relies on helium. The three phase system carefully outlined in this legislation is strongly supported by my colleagues and the administration. Additionally, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has said it can implement this legislation without a lengthy rulemaking process. Transparency and the prevention of collusion are central components of this legislation, allowing all users to know for how much the BLM helium is being sold, creating a stable price environment. This legislation and the three phase program will ensure that there remains a stable, predictable supply of helium for the U.S. economy, as well as continuing to provide taxpayers a fair return on this supply of helium.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, 98 years ago, the world suffered its first deliberate act of systematic mass murder of people of one culture by another. With this, the unspeakable horror of genocide was born. The massacre and mistreatment of one and-a-half million Armenians in the final years of the Ottoman Empire shows the incredible depths of inhumanity that the human race can sink. Out of this wretched episode of history, we, as human beings, have made a determined effort to move beyond hatred and to prevent similar tragedies from happening in the future. We are morally obligated to learn from the lapses of the human soul that caused the Armenian Genocide. We are morally obligated to make sure that we do all that we can to protect all oppressed, vulnerable, and subjugated peoples. I want to express my sympathy to the survivors and descendants of the Armenian Genocide. I hope we can all take time to reflect on this solemn day of remembrance. As we commemorate this somber anniversary, it's also important that we recognize the resiliency of the Armenian people. Armenia has been a great champion of freedom and democracy. I expect our two nations will continue to build strong commercial ties and support peace and stability in the region. I am proud to consistently co-sponsor resolutions affirming the U.S. record on the Armenian Genocide. Our policy should appropriately reflect understanding and sensitivity concerning issues related to the Armenian Genocide. This should be documented in the United States record.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Rio Hondo College 50th Anniversary. Located in Whittier, California, Rio Hondo College is a collaborative center of lifelong learning which provides innovative, challenging, and quality educational offerings for its diverse students and community. Since Rio Hondo first opened its doors in 1963, over one million students have come to the hillside campus to pursue their educational goals. Today Rio Hondo College serves more than 20,000 students each semester on a beautiful campus and new satellite facilities equipped with essentials for 21st Century teaching and learning. Rio Hondo College strives to be an exemplary California community college, meeting the learning needs of its changing and growing population. In 2011, The Hispanic Outlook in Higher Education Magazine ranked Rio Hondo College one of the ``Top 50 Community Colleges'' by Hispanic Full-Time Enrollment, by Hispanic Faculty, and for Hispanics Awarding Associate Degrees. Rio Hondo was also ranked nationally in the annual ``Top 100'' producers of Associate Degrees awarded to minority students in all disciplines by Community College Week, and in the ``Top 50'' for degrees awarded in homeland security, law enforcement, and firefighting. For the fourth consecutive year G.I. Jobs Magazine designated Rio Hondo College as a ``Military Friendly School.'' The 2013 Military Friendly Schools list honors the top 15 percent of colleges, universities and trade schools in the country that are doing the most to embrace America's military service members, veterans, and spouses as students and ensure their success on campus. Our community is especially grateful for the strong and vibrant Mathematics, Engineering, Science, Achievement (MESA) program and outstanding Veterans Service Center. In 2010, Rio Hondo College launched the award-winning South Whittier Educational Center (SWEC) partnership that provides a seamless pipeline to college for students from underserved areas with a historically low college attendance. Throughout its history, Rio Hondo College has assembled strong leadership teams in support of the work done by outstanding faculty in the classroom and caring and able classified staff who provide essential services in all phases of college operation. As a teaching/ learning institution, Rio Hondo College comes together and strives to meet the needs, aspirations, and goals of our changing student population and communities. The contributions and achievements of Rio Hondo are far too many to count, but the enrichment and sense of community they have created is something to be acknowledged. For that reason, I would like to recognize Rio Hondo Community College for 50 years of lifelong learning and quality education.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposition to H.R. 1120, the Republican plan to shut down the NLRB. This plan is just the latest in a seemingly unending series of Republican attacks on working people. Make no mistake: the real goal of this legislation is to attack workers' rights. This bill will make it harder for workers and employers to settle disputes. It will essentially end the National Labor Relations Board's ability to hear cases until the Senate confirms the President's NLRB nominees. And we all know that that deliberative body is often better at obstruction than getting the people's business done. Instead of trying to shut down the NLRB, shouldn't my colleagues on the other side of the aisle be calling on the Senate to have an up-or- down vote on the President's nominees for the NLRB? Allow me to separate fact from fiction. This bill is not about certainty. This bill is about making it harder for working people to have their voices and their cases heard. This bill is not about making the NLRB function efficiently. This bill is a partisan move to gut the NLRB's implementation of the law. After all, if you fire all the judges, there's nobody there to hear your case. Once again, the Republican leadership has decided to waste time making political points at the expense of working class Americans. We should be working on legislation to grow jobs. The American people are sick of politics. They want Congress to work on creating jobs and economic certainty. What our Republican friends are giving the American people today is more of an assault on workers' rights. This legislation doesn't do anything to help the 23 million Americans looking for good-paying jobs. Vote ``no'' on this turkey of a piece of legislation.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. I want to thank my colleagues on the other side of the aisle for understanding the need to stop dancing with default. Recognizing that we can't disregard our obligations to seniors, veterans, and active military is a first big step. But this legislation doesn't create the long-term certainty that our economy needs. The small business owners that I talk to tell me that they need certainty before they can invest in their businesses and hire more employees. Instead of providing small businesses the long-term certainty they need, the Republican-led House is just playing games. They're stringing the American public along so they can set up yet another dramatic showdown that only hurts our recovery. The mere mention of default sends markets plummeting, dries up hiring, and pulls the rug out from under consumer confidence. Businesses in my district and all across the country can't afford more tantrums threatening defaults and government shutdowns. It's our job to find a solution and give businesses, the markets, and American families the long-term certainty they deserve. This legislation isn't a long-term solution. It's yet more irresponsible gamesmanship.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, on November 19, 2012, the movement to improve direct care jobs lost a fearless and spirited leader when Leonila Vega passed away after battling cancer for fourteen months. As an advocate for direct care workers--the more than four million workers who assist elders and people living with disabilities--Leonila fought to improve wages, access to benefits, and respect for the profession. Born in rural Mexico, Leonila came to the United States as a teenager eager for the opportunity to pursue an education. She taught herself to speak and read English, worked her way through college, and went on to earn a law degree. As a disability rights attorney in Wisconsin, Ms. Vega developed a reputation as a ferocious advocate for the elderly and people living with disabilities. Her cases exposed her to the plight of direct care workers--many of whom are immigrant women--and she saw firsthand the challenges they faced, working long hours for little pay and no benefits, entrusted with the lives of their clients while suffering an alarming lack of respect. Her desire to improve life for these caregivers led her to become the Executive Director of Direct Care Alliance. At Direct Care Alliance, Ms. Vega worked to eliminate the exploitation of direct care workers and its harmful effects on care quality by empowering numerous direct care workers to see the valuable role they play in society. As she said, it was her American dream to help others realize their potential. I admire Ms. Vega's work on behalf of direct care workers, immigrants and people of color, and am saddened that we have lost such a vivacious and dynamic leader. Among the issues that Ms. Vega championed was the extension of the Fair Labor Standards Act to cover home care workers. Sadly, this essential workforce is excluded from these basic protections. Such poor working conditions hinder recruitment and retention which, in turn, negatively affect the quality of care that millions of Americans receive. Troubled by this injustice, Ms. Vega ensured that the issue remained at the center of Direct Care Alliance's agenda. I was inspired by her passion to improve direct care jobs and introduced the Direct Care Workforce Empowerment Act in 2010 and reintroduced a similar bill--the Direct Care Job Quality Improvement Act in 2011. One year ago, President Obama announced the Department of Labor's proposed rule to extend minimum wage and overtime protections to home care workers. Sadly, Ms. Vega did not live to see the rule finalized, but we will continue to fight to make things right for direct care workers, just as she would have done. The values that Ms. Vega fought to advance-- respect and dignity for all people--are ones that everyone, regardless of political affiliation, shares and we must work together to move those efforts forward.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, today I come to the floor to honor Leonila Vega, a ferocious advocate for seniors and people with disabilities. In her role as the executive director of the Direct Care Alliance, I worked closely with her to improve the conditions of work for those who provide in-home care and, with it, the quality of care that they provide for others. Although she lost her battle with cancer on November 19, the battle she waged for quality care and dignity for workers continues. I cannot adequately describe all of her accomplishments in one short minute, so I'm submitting a longer statement for the Record. But I do hope that in honoring her today and talking about her passion, I hope that her passion for social justice is an inspiration to all of us.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor and commemorate the life of Mexican American singer Jenni Rivera. Jenni used her powerful voice, soulful singing style, and honest lyrics to create a message that spoke to the resiliency of women. That powerful voice was silenced forever when she and six others were killed in a plane crash on November 9. Born and raised in Long Beach, California, to immigrant parents from Mexico, Jenni Rivera started her career selling her CDs at flea markets. When she died at the age of 43, Jenni was a top-selling artist, an actress, television producer, and entrepreneur. Tragically, she was on the cusp of multicultural stardom when she died. She had just finished filming her first film and was in talks with ABC to star in her own sitcom. Her talent and authenticity shined brightly in a music genre dominated by men. Jenni's lyrics offered a new and refreshing woman's perspective. Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring the memory of Jenni Rivera and the message of empowerment she gave to millions of women that she spoke for.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, it is with great sorrow that I announce the passing of Larry Van Nostran, who served the city of Lakewood for 37 years. Larry was first elected to the Lakewood City Council in 1975. He is the longest serving council member in the city's history, and was serving his tenth term as a council member when he passed away Friday, November 9. During his 37 years on the council, he served as the Mayor of the city nine times. Among Larry's most notable achievements was the founding of the Lakewood Youth Sports Hall of Fame in 1981 and its continued success for the past 30 years. The Hall of Fame has honored thousands of Lakewood youth during that time, and has helped promote a vigorous sports and recreational culture in the city. This strong tradition was nationally recognized by Sports Illustrated magazine, who named Lakewood ``Sportstown USA'' in 2004. Larry was instrumental in helping create a high quality of life in Lakewood's neighborhoods and finding solutions to keep Lakewood's crime rate low. Larry began his service in Lakewood city government as a member of the Traffic and Safety Commission, and was a longtime member of the Public Safety Committee as a member of the city council. He firmly believed that there's not a more important value than keeping a community safe. He was a strong supporter of the Lakewood Award of Valor event, where public safety personnel, volunteers and residents are honored annually for their dedication, hard work and courage. Larry was prominent in the development and expansion of senior services, which were scant before he was elected to the city council. Larry saw the initiation of Lakewood's DASH senior transit system and exercise and fitness programs at the city's two senior centers. He was also a champion of growing Lakewood's business and commercial base, which included modernizing the second largest shopping center in Los Angeles County, Lakewood Center Mall. Larry was born in Seville, Ohio in 1933 and moved to Lakewood in 1958, just four years after the city was incorporated. He was active in Lakewood civic life for over 40 years, including membership in the Elks Club, Jaycees, Kiwanis Club, Lakewood Pan American Association, and Masonic Lodge & Scottish Rite. As you are aware Mr. Speaker, many of our colleagues in city government have a fundamental impact on the lives of our constituents and they rarely get the recognition that they deserve. The city of Lakewood will miss Larry, and I stand with many in our community in sending my thoughts and prayers to his family. Thank you Mr. Speaker, I ask for a moment of silence for Larry Van Nostran, a true public servant, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Maria Dadian and her 18 years of public service to the people of Southern California. Maria's devotion to public service is long-standing. In 1975, Maria began her career in municipal government working for the City of South El Monte. She later accepted the position of Parks and Recreation Director with the City of Hawaiian Gardens, and after four years was promoted to Assistant to the City Administrator. Following her 11 years of continuous service to Hawaiian Gardens, she was named interim Executive Director of the Coalition for Youth Development, the city's newly established non-profit organization. During her municipal career she has been contracted by both public entities and private businesses to organize and implement public safety and recreation programs. Since joining the City of Artesia management team in 1994, Maria has worked tirelessly to ensure Artesia remains safe for its residents and economically vibrant for its business community. During her time as Assistant City Manager, Maria oversaw the City's Public Safety programs, Capital Projects, Community Development projects, and grant program. On top of that, Maria also steered Artesia's Parks and Recreation and Public Works departments. On November 20, 2000, she was appointed City Manager, and redoubled her efforts to serve the citizens and businesses of Artesia. Over the years, Maria never stopped working to improve Artesia through redevelopment, encouraging private sector investment, and diversifying and expanding Artesia's economic base. As a result, Artesia flourished under Maria's tenure. This includes an historic district renovation and restoration project, as well as numerous projects devoted to public infrastructure and facilities, downtown revitalization, and developmental and housing assistance. In short, Artesia has seen a renaissance with Maria as City Manager. I commend Maria Dadian for her many years of outstanding public service and dedication to the City of Artesia and the community. We need more public servants like Maria Dadian. Artesia would not be the community it is today without her.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Greg Nordbak and his 18 years of public service to the people of Whittier, California. Greg and his wife Donna have called Whittier home since 1980, and they have been fixtures in Whittier civic life ever since. Since beginning the first of his five terms on the Whittier City Council in 1994, Greg has worked tirelessly to ensure Whittier remains safe for its residents and economically vibrant for its business community. Under his tenure, Whittier has seen the creation of various city resources such as the Whittier Greenway Trail acquisition and development, the construction of the Parnel Park Community and Senior Center, a new Whittier Police Headquarters Building, Pio Pico State Historic Park Renovation, the Uptown Whittier Specific Plan, the Whittier Boulevard Specific Plan, and release of Fred C. Nelles property for development. Over the years, Greg's civic involvement has grown exponentially to include proudly serving as Chairman of the San Gabriel Basin Water Quality Authority (WQA), as past president of the Gateway Cities Council of Governments, as a former Board Member of the Whittier Rio Hondo AIDS Project (WRHAP), as well as volunteering with the Boys and Girls Club of Whittier, the Skills Foundation, and the Rio Hondo Chapter of the American Red Cross. Over the past decade, Greg has always worked to ensure that Whittier operates on firm financial footing and never outside its fiscal means. While the broader economy has impacted many cities throughout Southern California, Whittier has managed to maintain funding for all city services and capital improvement projects. Greg Nordbak is a big reason why Whittier can continue to deliver for its residents. From one public servant to another, I praise Greg Nordbak and commend him on his many years of outstanding public service and dedication to the City of Whittier and the community. Whittier would not be the community it is today without him.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, at this time, I would like to yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Missouri, the chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I want to thank the chairman for his work in this matter. He has addressed in his opening comments some important aspects of this particular matter. Representatives Charles Dent and John Yarmuth, who led the investigative subcommittee, will speak in greater detail about the facts of this matter and how and why the committee reached the recommendation for sanction that comes before the House today. I would like to briefly remind our colleagues why we are discussing this matter on the floor today and the importance of the ethics process to the integrity of the House. As noted before, the Ethics Committee is unique in that its membership is evenly divided between Democrats and Republicans. In that bipartisan spirit, I would like to cite the observations of two former chairmen of this committee about the role of the Ethics Committee and the role that it has in overseeing the House. A former Republican chairman of the committee once said that the ethics process is not a ``trial.'' Instead, it is a ``peer review process.'' In that same vein, a former Democratic chair of the committee said, ``The purpose of the ethics process is not punishment but accountability and credibility: accountability for the respondent and credibility for the House, itself.'' The committee followed these important principles in assessing the conduct of our colleague, Representative Laura Richardson. The recommendation for sanction we present today will ensure that Representative Richardson is held accountable for her conduct. It will also reaffirm the credibility of the House by demonstrating our commitment to upholding and enforcing the ethics standards that apply to all of us equally. How the committee conducted the investigation in this matter reinforces the goals of accountability and credibility. This matter was begun by the committee at its own initiative in the last Congress. The members of the subcommittee did not prejudge the outcome of this matter nor did the members of the full committee. Out of fairness to all House Members and staff, it is important to point out that the mere fact that an individual is the subject of an investigation doesn't mean that a violation has actually occurred. The existence of an investigation doesn't reflect a judgment by the committee on the allegations. This is true whether the investigation has been publicly acknowledged by the committee or whether it remains confidential. The committee conducted a thorough and fair investigation. Representative Richardson was represented by counsel throughout the committee's investigation. She was provided with copies of materials gathered by the subcommittee. Representative Richardson also chose to waive certain procedural rights and steps in the investigative process that were available to her. The subcommittee listened to her views and interpretations of the facts of the investigation as well as appropriate sanctions. The full committee also took into account her views. Ultimately, a dozen Members of the House of both parties weighed the allegations regarding Representative Richardson, and based on the facts, concluded that her conduct did not meet the ethical standards that apply to all of us in a number of respects. That conclusion was bipartisan and it was unanimous. The misconduct in this matter was serious, and in accordance with House precedent it merits the serious sanction of reprimand. Representative Richardson has agreed to accept the sanction of reprimand for her conduct. Usually, it is the committee's work in investigative matters like this one that receives public attention, but the committee's nonpartisan staff provides advice and education to Members and staff every day. The report issued by the committee in this matter serves both purposes. If you have not already taken the opportunity to do so, I urge my colleagues and House staff to carefully read the committee's report. As the report says, the boundaries between our official, political, and personal roles are sometimes clear, and sometimes they are complicated. This matter illustrates the consequences of failing to heed those boundaries. Finally, I wish to acknowledge and thank my colleagues Representatives Charlie Dent, John Yarmuth, Rob Bishop, and Ben Ray Lujan for their hard work on the investigative subcommittee. In addition, I want to thank all of our committee staff. Although we are a bipartisan committee, we have a professional nonpartisan staff. All of the members of the committee appreciate their continuing hard work and service to the House. I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, at this time, I yield as much time as he may consume to the gentleman from Kentucky (Mr. Yarmuth), a member of the Ethics Committee.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I just feel it is important to point out several important issues that were raised by Ms. Richardson in her comments on the floor today. Much of what she has stated on the floor today was included in the views that she filed after reviewing the report that was issued. She raised these points in her views of the report. And I feel compelled to add that the committee took those views very seriously, and they responded and refuted those points in its response to her views, which is all included in the report which has been made publicly available. Everything that has been stated on the floor today by any Member, but most especially Mr. Dent, are statements that are already included in the report to which Representative Richardson has responded. And again, many of the points that she raised we investigated, took very seriously, and included in response to those views. I don't think that there is anything further to add other than she has been given an opportunity to voice her concerns at every step of the process, and we have scrupulously adhered to a process to try to take her views and her suggestions into account and we have arrived at the report which is unanimously agreed on by all of the committee members. I reserve the balance of my time.