Mike Thompson

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Chrissy Valadez, a paramedic and fire captain with the Northshore Fire Protection. I have named Ms. Valadez as Public Safety Heroes of the Year from Lake County in California's 4th District because of her extraordinary selflessness, dedication and service to others. Ms. Valadez was born in Klamath Falls, Oregon, to Robert and Tina Allen, She attended Mendocino College Fire Academy and Paramedic program and earned her associate degree in emergency management from Coastline College in Costa Mesa, California. Ms. Valadez began her career in 2003 with Lucerne Fire Department which consolidated and formed Northshore Fire Protection District in 2006. She has served as Northshore Fire Protection District's EMS Liaison since 2007. She is also a part of the Lake County Emergency Medical Care Committee and has been a Field Training Officer precepting paramedic interns since 2008. Having worked for nearly 21 years in Lake County, she has assisted in many of the major wildfires, including the 2018 Ranch Fire that devastated our community. Ms. Valadez has been serving her community for over two decades. She teaches CPR to a wide range of community members including high school students and school staff. She's also been educating community and tribal organizations on Narcan administration, tackling the opioid crisis head-on. As the driving force behind the Every-15-Minutes program at Upper Lake High School, she has been helping students understand the dangers of driving under the influence. Ms. Valadez is currently finishing her bachelor's degree in science education with an end goal of teaching health science and emergency medical services (EMS) to high school students. Three years ago. Ms. Valadez started working on a new passion in her spare time. She serves as a Regional Advisor for International Student Exchange, facilitating and supporting high school students in Lake and Mendocino Counties who are studying abroad in the United States for a cultural exchange experience. She is a local point of contact for any inquiries and emergencies, ensuring that the students have a positive and enriching experience while adjusting to life in a new culture. Ms. Valadez also organizes events and activities to promote cultural exchange and community integration to better connect international students and their host communities. When she is not on duty, Ms. Valadez enjoys spending time with her husband, Ronnie, and three daughters, Regan (14), Charlotte (9) and Clara (2). Her crew members at the firehouse describe her as a dedicated worker who does her best to provide solutions even in the most stressful of times. She is a wonderful daughter, a caring sister, an amazing mother and a loving wife, and our community is grateful for her hard work and service. Mr. Speaker, we thank Ms. Valadez for her persistence, service and commitment to our community. Therefore. it is fitting and proper that we honor her here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Daniel Eagle, an officer with the Clearlake Police Department. I have named Mr. Eagle as a Public Safety Hero of the Year for Lake County in California's 4th District as a result of his extraordinary selflessness, dedication and service to others. Mr. Eagle was born in Clearlake, California, and grew up in Lake County, California, graduating from Middletown High School in 2013. Mr. Eagle attended college in New Mexico where he obtained a bachelor's degree in criminal justice management. From an early age, Mr. Eagle had the desire to become a police officer and to help our community. Today, at the Clearlake Police Department, Mr. Eagle serves as a police officer, field training officer and canine handler. Mr. Eagle has been with his canine partner, Zeus, for several years now. Mr. Eagle is also the president of the Police Officer Association and enjoys working with local leaders on community improvement projects. Mr. Eagle has a passion for traffic enforcement and investigations. This includes infractions such as driving under the influence (DUI), stolen vehicles and traffic collisions. Mr. Eagle has conducted numerous DUI investigations which resulted in the prosecution of over 25 DUI arrests. For his selfless work, Mr. Eagle received an award from Mothers Against Drunk Driving in 2023. Mr. Eagle was also presented with the Law Enforcement and Prosecution Recognition award. Mr. Eagle's dedication to our community continues as he strives to address traffic- related issues within the city of Clearlake, making it a safer place to live, work and visit. Outside of his service, Mr. Eagle enjoys playing golf with friends, restoring vehicles and participating in off-road activities. Mr. Eagle is proudly married to Taylor Eagle and is the father of a 2-year-old daughter named Brinley. Mr. Speaker, we thank Mr. Eagle for his persistence, service and commitment to our community. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor him here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Andrew Tomelloso, a fire captain with the Dixon Fire Department. I have named Mr. Tomelloso as a Public Safety Hero of the Year for Solano County in California's 4th District as a result of his extraordinary selflessness, dedication and service to others. Mr. Tomelloso was born in Vallejo, California and grew up in Dixon, California where he earned his high school diploma. Since then, Mr. Tomelloso has completed the National College of Technical Instruction Paramedic Program, the State Fire Marshal Company Officer Program and is a certified California Specialized Training Institute Hazmat Technician. He is currently enrolled at Columbia Southern University to complete an AS/BS degree. Mr. Tomelloso is the proud father of 15-year- old Owen Tomelloso and 14-year-old Marina Tomelloso. Mr. Tomelloso began his career assisting emergency room patients, until he joined the Dixon Fire Department in February 2014 where he has since been serving as a firefighter and paramedic. Mr. Tomelloso's calm demeanor and approachability within the Dixon Fire Department makes him a valued leader and a respected colleague. As a newly promoted captain he is playing an essential role in helping make the department stronger, more resilient and more capable. Mr. Tomelloso is the Dixon Professional Firefighters Association (DPFA) Local 4665 Vice President, the grant committee chair, the Dixon Fire Department public education lead and a Solano County Hazmat team member as well as being the Solano County Rotary Firefighter of the Year for both the years of 2017 and 2020. As a captain and paramedic, Mr. Tomelloso is tasked with public education within the fire department. He demonstrates incredible willingness to contribute and respond to the needs of our community in fire safety, adult and youth education programs and CPR training. Mr. Tomelloso's dedication to the Dixon Fire Department and our community has resulted in top caliber public education that improves the lives and wellbeing of our citizens. Mr. Tomelloso is a standup citizen working with the community CPR program and contributing to public outreach events such as school festivals, Dixon May Fair, fire prevention week and senior resource fairs. Additionally, he was a member of the Solano County Urban Search and Rescue Team and the former president of the Dixon Firefighters Charitable Fund. Currently Mr. Tomelloso serves as the lead chair for both the Dixon Fire Department CPR program and DPFA annual Santa run. From school programs to Fire Prevention Week events, to presentations with homeowner groups, to coordinating the Santa Run during the holidays to spread a bit of joy, his professionalism and dedication to making our community a smarter and safer place goes far and above the call of duty. Mr. Speaker, we thank Mr. Tomelloso for his persistence, service, and commitment to our community. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor him here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, on January 29, 2024, I did not vote on Roll Call votes 20 and 21 as my flight was significantly delayed. Had I been present I would have voted: AYE on Roll Call No. 20, H.R. 5528, the Safe and Smart Federal Purchasing Act; and AYE on Roll Call No. 21, S. 3427, the Overtime Pay for Protective Services Act.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Clarksburg Fire Protection District. I have named them as Public Safety Heroes of the Year from Yolo County in California's 4th District because of their extraordinary selflessness, dedication, and service to others. The Clarksburg Fire Protection District is an all-volunteer organization that has provided fire protection to the community of Clarksburg and the surrounding area for the past 78 years. Currently, the fire protection district has 23 trained volunteers who respond to fires, medical emergencies, vehicle accidents, and public service calls. The fire district has proven its effectiveness by responding to multiple emergency calls simultaneously, up to five at one time, without calling for aid from other agencies. As the only chartered division of government in the Clarksburg township, the fire district has led numerous community events to organize discussions about the needs of the area. 90 percent of the fire district's volunteers live in the community creating a ``neighbors helping neighbors'' dynamic in many of the emergency responses. The volunteer firefighters are also very active in other aspects of our community and support numerous charitable and civic organizations. As evidence of their importance to our community, in the end of 2022, extreme wind and weather events left Clarksburg without power and operational wells for days. The fire district responded by delivering water to the community for sanitation and opening the fire station as an emergency depot and warming station. Another instance of service came in recent years when a fire threatened Clarksburg. Within two minutes, firefighters were on the scene and suppressing the fire, beating the National Fire Protection Association rural response time standards by a wide margin. Along with serving Clarksburg, the fire district participates in several mutual aid and automatic aid agreements with neighboring districts, neighboring departments, the county of Yolo, the state of California, and some federal agencies. Mr. Speaker, we thank the Clarksburg Fire Protection District for their persistence, service, and commitment to our community. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor them here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Nick Deguilio, a Deputy with the Napa County Sheriff's Department. I have named Mr. Deguilio as a Public Safety Hero of the Year for Napa County in California's 4th District as a result of his extraordinary selflessness, dedication and service to others. Mr. Deguilio was born and grew up in Napa, California, where he spent most of his younger years playing football. After graduating from Justin Sienna High School. Mr. Deguilio attended college at University of California, Santa Cruz, obtaining a bachelor's degree in history in 2004. In 2008, Mr. Deguilio and his brother Dominic attended the Police Academy before embarking on his career as a Deputy Sheriff at the Santa Cruz Sheriff's Office where he spent the next four years. Mr. Deguilio then made the move to the Sonoma County Sheriffs Office where he spent nine years before being hired by the Napa County Sheriffs Office in 2021. In the early afternoon on July, 16, 2023, Mr. Deguilio responded to a medical call from an adult male that had sustained a hand cut from a boat propeller. Not knowing the severity of the injury, and without a dispatch broadcast, he recognized the potentially urgent situation, notified his colleagues and raced to the scene. Within seven minutes. Mr. Deguilio arrived and took control of the incident. While evaluating the patient's injury, consisting of a partial hand amputation, he requested an air ambulance and applied a tourniquet to stop excessive bleeding. Mr. Deguilio remained attentive to the patient, who was in apparent shock and somewhat unresponsive, before being relieved by Cal Fire and other responding deputies. The patient was then transported by helicopter to a hospital where he underwent multiple surgeries. The quick thinking and actions by Mr. Deguilio helped stabilize the victim and prevented a possibly far worseoutcome. Exactly two months later Mr. Deguilio responded to a stabbing at a remote residence in Napa County. Initial details from a call to 911 were that the caller's husband had been stabbed by an unknown person in their backyard and that the husband was attempting to hold the suspect down. Mr. Deguilio was first to arrive on scene and decided to attempt to locate the victim and suspect without waiting for backup. He found the injured resident, who had taken the weapon and was holding the suspect down. Mr. Deguilio took control of the knife and immediately handcuffed the suspect when the resident fell to his hands and knees. He promptly cut open the resident's bloodied shirt, finding a 3-inch open stab wound on his upper back. Not knowing the severity of the stab wound, Mr. Deguilio immediately applied a ``chest seal'' to the resident's back, applying continual pressure while awaiting further medical assistance. As deputies arrived at the scene, he learned the suspect had also been stabbed during the altercation. Once medical personnel arrived and began aiding the resident, Mr. Deguilio moved to provide first aid to the suspect, applying another ``chest seal'' to the suspect's stab wound. Mr. Deguilio's quick decision-making certainly saved lives. Mr. Deguilio's actions during both incidents show selfless dedication and service at the highest of levels to our community and the Law Enforcement profession. Outside of work Mr. Deguilio is heavily involved in his child's Little League team as the coach. He recently competed with his brother in the Top Cop Challenge pistol match in Amador County. The brother duo placed second in the team competition and placed second and third in the individual competition. They then donated their five-thousand- dollar winnings to the First Responder Support Network/West Coast Post- Trauma Retreat. Mr. Deguilio is proudly married to Kati Deguilio, and they share three children: 12-year-old Vincent, 10-year-old Joseph and 6-year-old Gus. Mr. Speaker, we thank Mr. Deguilio for his persistence, service and commitment to our community. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor him here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker. I rise today to honor Lauren Coughlan, a dispatcher with the Vacaville Police Department. I have named Ms. Coughlan as a Public Safety Hero of the Year for Solano County in California's 4th District as a result of her extraordinary selflessness, dedication, and service to others. Ms. Coughlan was born in California and from an early age had a desire to become a police officer and help our community. Last year she completed her bachelor's degree in emergency management and plans to continue her education with the goal of earning her master's degree in clinical psychology. Ms. Coughlan's law enforcement career began in 1998 when she was 16 years old as a Vacaville Police Department cadet. She later served as an intern for the department assigned to Patrol, Records, Property & Evidence, Crime Prevention and Dispatch until she was hired as a full- time dispatcher in July 2003. In 2016 she was promoted to communications supervisor of the Vacaville Police Department, where she presently serves. Ms. Coughlan attended a 3-day Yoga for First Responders training in Colorado, with the intent to bring it back and help local first responders alleviate their high stress levels. On June 21, 2023, she achieved this goal by hosting a yoga class at the Solano Events Center, for members of the Solano County Sheriffs Office, Solano County Probation Department, California Highway Patrol, Fairfield Police Department and Vacaville Police Department. She additionally assisted in teaching classes at the Fairfield Police Department, California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System Users Group Raining conference and multiple classes at the Vacaville Police Department. Ms. Coughlan is an active member of Solano Family First Responders, a nonprofit organization supporting the first responder community and their families, She also is an assistant team leader with the Emergency Tactical Communications Team, responding with SWAT to critical incidents and a member of the Vacaville Telecommunicator's Emergency Response Team, responding to dispatch mutual aid requests throughout the state during wildfires and other major events. Ms. Coughlan is an active member in our community, regularly managing and presenting 9-1-1 presentations for kids at local elementary schools and other community outreach events such as First Responder's Day at Hemlock Elementary School and National Night Out. She coordinates and participates in the communications center's annual tree donation for Festival of Trees. She also played a major role in coordinating the New Year's Eve fundraising event for retired officer Walt Simon and plays a supporting role in many other fundraising events supporting first responders. Ms. Coughlan currently lives in Vacaville with her foster puppy, Sundae, and enjoys traveling in her spare time. She is proud of her Irish heritage and dual citizenship. Ms. Coughlan is passionate about mental health, wellness, and resiliency. She plans to focus on continuing her education and training in resiliency and the neurobiology of stress and trauma in the first responder environment. Mr. Speaker, we thank Ms. Coughlan for her persistence, service, and commitment to our community. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor her here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Deborah Lamaison, a Public Safety Officer with the Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety in Rohnert Park, California. I have named Mrs. Lamaison as a Public Safety Hero of the Year for Sonoma County in California's 4th District as a result of her extraordinary selflessness, dedication and service to others. Mrs. Lamaison was born in Santa Rosa, California, and grew up in the nearby city of Rohnert Park. She began her career in the automobile towing industry, helping her father run a small family business where she was the sole female tow truck operator in Sonoma County for many years. Mrs. Lamaison, with the support of her husband, then pursued her dream of becoming a police officer. She has since been a dedicated Public Safety Officer for the city of Rohnert Park for 20 years During her time at the Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety, she has served as a Detective, a Firefighter, a member of the Multidisciplinary Accident Investigation Team, and as her current title of School Resource Officer. As the School Resource Officer for the city of Rohnert Park, she has worked to build meaningful relationships with students, staff, faculty, and the community. She regularly engages with youth in not just one school, but all the schools within the city's jurisdiction. Her compassionate approach to policing has been part of her mission to thoughtfully engage with those around her to reach positive and successful outcomes whilst fostering trust within the community. Mrs. Lamaison has set a public example of how law enforcement can engage with youth and keep our students and school campuses safer. When Mrs. Lamaison is not on duty, she is a dedicated mother to her two children, Nico and Mariah. She also volunteers her time to participate with Rancho Cotate High School's MECHA club events and serves as the teacher's assistant for the Zero Period Weight Training Class. She is also a member of the National Physique Committee for amateur bodybuilding and is a Spanish language translator. Those who know her describe her as humble, patient, respectful, caring, strong and an exemplary role model. Mr. Speaker, we thank Mrs. Debbie Lamaison for her persistence, service, and commitment to our community. Therefore. it is fitting and proper that we honor her today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ghost, a City of Santa Rosa Police Department K9. I have named Ghost as a Public Safety Hero of the Year from Sonoma County in California's 4th District because of his extraordinary selflessness, dedication and service to others. Ghost is a 2-year-old Malinois who was born in Modesto, California and began his service with the Santa Rosa Police Department in September 2022. He lives and works with his partner, Officer Aaron Gonzales-Campos, along with Officer Gonzales-Campos' wife and two daughters. Ghost enjoys being a big brother to his two little sisters. In a time of rampant gun violence, Ghost serves a crucial role for our community. Ghost and Officer Gonzales-Campos are Sonoma County's first firearm detection Police K9 team. After hundreds of hours of training and achieving certification in January 2023, Ghost is able to detect odors from firearms and related objects such as ammunition. After identifying an odor, Ghost identifies the threat to his partner. In his first year and in addition to his regular duties, Ghost intercepted and removed eight illegal firearms from the streets of Santa Rosa. Just two weeks ago, he helped bust an identity theft ring that was also manufacturing illegal ghost guns and assault rifles. A proactive approach to intercepting illegal firearms is keeping Santa Rosa safe and reducing the risk of violent crimes. Mr. Speaker, we thank Ghost for his persistence, service and commitment to our community. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor him here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Joseph A. Farrow, the Chief of Police with the University of California, Davis Police Department (UCDPD). I have named Mr. Farrow as a Public Safety Hero of the Year for Yolo County in California's 4th District as a result of his extraordinary selflessness, dedication and service to others. Mr. Farrow was born in Tokyo, Japan and moved to the United States at the age of 10. He and his four brothers grew up in a military household and enjoyed all aspects of family, friendships and sports in the Monterey Peninsula. Mr. Farrow earned an associate of arts degree from Monterey Peninsula Community College, a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from California State University, Sacramento and a master's degree in education at California State University, San Diego. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy, the FBI National Executive Institute, and the Peace Officer Standards and Training Law Enforcement Command College. Mr. Farrow's distinguished career in law enforcement began as an officer with the Pacific Grove Police Department. He followed his lifelong dream of being a California Highway Patrol (CHP) officer joining the CHP in 1980. Working his way through the ranks, Mr. Farrow became Deputy Commissioner in November 2004. He was appointed commissioner in February 2008 by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, becoming the first Japanese American to head the CHP and was later re- appointed by Governor Jerry Brown. Mr. Farrow has been serving as the Chief of Police at the University of California, Davis since 2017. He has contributed to the evolution of the Police Accountability Board, promoting accountability, trust and communication between the campus community and the UCDPD. Mr. Farrow is a proponent of diversifying the law enforcement workforce to ensure that UC Davis police officers are reflective of the communities they serve. He is the University of California Systemwide Coordinator, collaborating with all 10 police chiefs to effectively operate and guide contemporary policy and administer 21st century policing programs. He has earned awards for his leadership including the Distinguished Service Award in 2017 and the UC Davis Chancellor's Award for Exceptional University Leadership in 2023. Mr. Farrow is an active member in our community being heavily involved with the California Chapter of the March of Dimes, the Special Olympics Northern California, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and various UC Davis athletic programs and initiatives. He is the President of the National Alliance on Mental Illness California as well as a member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the California Peace Officers Association and the Asian Peace Officers Association. In 2022, Mr. Farrow championed a new state law which made it possible for anyone who is legally authorized to work in the United States to become a peace officer in California, regardless of citizenship status. For the past four decades, Mr. Farrow proved he is an accomplished and seasoned leader with a contagious passion for public service and safety. He embodies the values of respect, inclusion and kindness to others and consistently works towards staff diversity, community engagement and accountability implementing contemporary policies and programs that serve as a model for other institutions. Mr. Speaker, we thank Mr. Farrow for his persistence, service and commitment to our community. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor him here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a team of public servants from the City of Santa Rosa all of whom traveled to and continue to support local and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recovery efforts in Maui, Hawaii following the tragic wildfires of August 2023. The team includes Division Chief--Fire Marshall Paul Lowenthal, Deputy Director of Water and Sewer Operations Joe Schiavone, Chief Building Officer Jesse Oswald, Marin Water Communications and Public Affairs Officer Adriane Mertens and Programmer--Analyst Jake Bayless. I have named the team as a Public Safety Hero of the Year from Sonoma County in California's 4th District as a result of their extraordinary selflessness, dedication and service to others. While people across our nation watched in horror as a wildfire engulfed Lahaina, many in our district found the sight sickeningly familiar. Just a few years prior in 2017, the Tubbs Fire swept through Santa Rosa destroying thousands of homes and taking twenty-two lives. Our community has hard-won wisdom when it comes to recovering from wildfire. So, when FEMA Region IX Administrator Robert Fenton called Santa Rosa to ask for their expertise, these extraordinary public servants answered. Mr. Lowenthal, Mr. Schiavone, Mr. Oswald, Ms. Mertens, and Mr. Bayless landed in Maui on August 27, 2023. Over the coming months, the team provided extensive technical guidance in debris removal, information recovery, public communications, sewer service restoration, water service restoration and the development of Maui's official recovery web portal: mauirecovers.org. Mr. Lowenthal has been to Maui four times since the fire and continues to consult Maui County's Department of Water Supply, Department of Public Works, and numerous other agencies on recovery. Mr. Bayless helped convert key digital resources for survivors including our own community's sonomacountyrecovers.org. into the new mauirecovers.org. The website now serves as the official clearinghouse for Maui fire survivors seeking recovery information and services. Ms. Mertens provided over two months of public information support and provided technical guidance on the development of mauirecovers.org. Mr. Schiavone continues to work with Maui drinking and wastewater and was critical to the testing, flushing and restoration of water services. Mr. Oswald helped develop damage assessments and a rebuilding framework. He continues to consult Maui County Development Services Administration on recovery plan implementation and permitting process. Mr. Speaker, we thank this team of exemplary civil servants for their persistence, service and commitment to our nation. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor them here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today along with my colleague, Rep. John Garamendi, to honor CC and Regina Yin's 30 years of service to our community through the Yin Ranch in Vacaville. The couple's continued support to civic engagement is further demonstrated through their founding of the Asian Pacific Islander Public Affairs Association (APAPA) 22 years ago and co-founding of the Chinese American Association of Solano County (CAASC). Both CC and Regina Yin are immigrants from China and Taiwan to the United States. CC Yin graduated from the University of Washington with a master's degree in civil engineering, whereas Regina also graduated from the University of Washington with a master's degree in social work. CC and Regina Yin are the proud franchise owners of 30 McDonald's branches in Northern California, including 16 in our beloved Solano County. We are very grateful for the thousands of jobs the Yin family have created for the people in our community. Additionally, in May of 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, CC and Regina Yin donated millions of pieces of personal protective equipment including surgical masks, gowns, and hand sanitizers to frontline workers in Vallejo, the surrounding Bay Area, and nationwide communities. Over the past 30 years, the 40-acre Yin Ranch in Vacaville, California has been filled with cherished memories and wonderful moments in partnership with the community. Comprised of many scenic areas, including the lake, Olive Garden Courtyard, Vista Pointe Event Center, Main House with Cottages, and a new Asian Heritage Center (Cultural Pavilion), the Yin Ranch is a beautiful and unique property, which hosts weddings and community events for public benefit. The Asian Heritage Center was rebuilt after the devastating 2020 LNU Lightning Complex fires which destroyed the original structure. CC, Regina, and their family then quickly rebuilt the structure into a new 18,000 square foot indoor location with an event hall, wine cellar, and outdoor deck space to allow the community to quickly regain access to the important resource. For decades, the Yin family has been dedicated to giving back to our communities in Solano County and throughout the state of California. They have supported hundreds of nonprofit organizations, including the one they founded, APAPA. CC and Regina Yin responded to an alarming lack of Asian Pacific Islander (API) representation at all levels of government. With grassroots support, APAPA set out to engage voters, partner with the community, and develop API leaders of tomorrow. Today, APAPA has over 50 volunteer-driven chapters and hundreds of student-interns each year hosted by public officials. The Yin family is committed to furthering APAPA's mission to advance the Asian Americans and Native American Pacific Islander (AANAPI) communities. Through leadership and civic engagement, CC and Regina Yin collaborate with diverse organizations, public officials, and community leaders to create awareness for AANAPI communities. They strive to fight hate crimes, address systemic racism, and provide opportunities for voices to be heard. CC and Regina Yin have three daughters: Mary Yin Liu; Betty Lin; and Carol Yin. Their family believes in the American Dream and a legacy of community engagement. Mr. Speaker, CC and Regina Yin have established a legacy befitting of their enduring commitment and passion to serving our community. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor their work here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today along with my colleagues, Representative Jared Huffman and Representative John Garamendi, to honor the Redwood Empire Chapter of the California Society of the Sons of the American Revolution which is celebrating 50 years of work to honor the patriots of the American Revolution. The Redwood Empire Chapter was chartered on September 29, 1973, and serves the communities in Mendocino, Napa, Solano, and Sonoma Counties. The organization, its members, and its partners in the Daughters of the American Revolution are dedicated to the promotion of democratic values, to serving our nation's veterans, and to educating and inspiring future generations with the founding principles of the United States of America. The Redwood Empire Chapter provides service and support to worthy causes in the North Bay and extended region. They are a community partner of the Department of Veterans Affairs San Francisco Health Care System participating in events to uplift the veteran community and increase their access to health care. In addition to working with youth serving organizations to provide speakers and presentations on American history, the Redwood Empire Chapter helps young people, including the descendants of patriots and Eagle Scouts, to apply for college scholarships through the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution. Preparations are underway for the United States' Semiquincentennial Anniversary in 2026, and the Redwood Empire Chapter is leading an important project to identify and recognize the patriots buried throughout California including those who served in the Spanish Frontier Militia. We are honored that our district is home to the final resting place of such patriots like Captain William Smith of the Virgina Navy at the Sonoma Mountain Cemetery. Each year, the Redwood Empire Chapter helps honor Captain Smith during Wreaths Across America Day. Mr. Speaker, the Redwood Empire Chapter of the California Society of the Sons of the American Revolution is greatly appreciated for their 50 years of service. Therefore, it is fitting that we honor their chapter here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman for yielding. Like the gentlewoman, I spent my entire weekend in my district, and not one person came to me asking me to change the law on chocolate milk. We have important work to do, Mr. Speaker, and I rise in support of taking action to end the gun violence epidemic. This holiday season, there will be another 40,000 empty chairs at the dinner table because that is how many people died from gun violence in 2023. We have had 636 mass shootings this year so far. We have had more mass shootings than days of the year. On one day in April, there were 11 mass shootings. In America, the greatest country in the history of the world, guns are the leading cause of death for children and teenagers. American children face the daily threat of gun violence in schools, churches, temples, and mosques. They face the risk of gun violence in grocery stores, shopping centers, and in their own homes. Instead of taking action to protect our kids from gun violence, House Republicans have used valuable floor time playing political games, and this week is just more of the same. Recently, a House Republican colleague stood on this floor and begged for anyone in their party to come to the floor and name one accomplishment that the Republicans have been able to do that would allow people's lives to be made better. There is an accomplishment in reach. Today, I call on Republicans to join Democrats and pass the Bipartisan Background Checks Act. Background checks are popular. They are supported by over 90 percent of the American people, including a majority of Republicans and even a majority of NRA members. Mr. Speaker, background checks are effective. Every day, background checks stop more than 160 felons and more than 60 domestic abusers from getting a gun from a federally licensed dealer.

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to oppose the previous question so we can pass the Bipartisan Background Checks Act, save lives, and help ensure that more American families never have to suffer the loss of a loved one.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the retirement of Police Chief Michael Parish and his 37 years of service with local law enforcement throughout the state of California, including nearly 13 years as police chief for the city of Cotati. Chief Parish graduated from California State University Stanislaus with a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice and then attended graduate school at California State University, Long Beach, earning a Master of Science Degree in Emergency Services Administration. From there, he graduated from the Federal Bureau of Investigations National Academy and went on to serve in the California Army National Guard 1st 184th Infantry (Air Assault) Division. Chief Parish began his career in law enforcement at the Merced County Sheriffs Department, serving as a deputy sheriff for 19 years, before leaving as a sergeant. While at the Merced County Sheriff's Department, Chief Parish was the tactical commander of the Regional S.W.A.T. and the coordinator of the Sheriffs Department Citizen Search and Rescue Team. Chief Parish then moved to the University of California (UC), Merced, where he was second in command as a lieutenant with the UC Merced Police Department. Over the course of five years, Chief Parish was instrumental in building up the new police department with an emphasis on creating connections with his community. Chief Parish had an illustrious career in Sonoma County, becoming one of the longest serving police chiefs in the state of California. In 2010, he began to serve as the police chief For the city of Cotati. As Chief, he paved the way in California with innovations in modern policing. Chief Parish led the first department in Sonoma County to fully deploy body worn cameras on all officers, worked to support regional response to wildfires in Sonoma County, and served on the Sonoma County Public Safety Consortium to promote unified police and fire dispatch. In addition, Chief Parish helped the Cotati Police Department in the transition to become one of the first police departments in California to deploy fully upfitted electric patrol cars. When he was not busy on the job, Chief Parish developed a passion for collecting antique road signs and is a loyal Raider football fan. The Chief can now finish fixing up his 1953 Studebaker truck and spend more time with his beloved wife Laura, and his two daughters, Chloe and Kennedy. Mr. Speaker, we thank Chief Michael Parish for his selfless service and commitment to the people of Cotati and Sonoma County. His efforts have made Cotati a more dynamic, safe, and prosperous city. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor him here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a Napa Valley landmark, the Louis M. Martini winery. In 1906, Louis M. Martini, an Italian immigrant who first made wine with his father in San Francisco, began his winemaking journey with the simple goal of making the best Cabernet Sauvignon possible. He built a legacy of top- notch hospitality, excellence, and innovation, championing fine dry wines, premium viticulture, and was a pioneer of temperature-controlled fermentation. In 1933, Louis M. Martini established the world-class Louis M. Martini Winery in St. Helena, California. This was the first winery to open after the Repeal of Prohibition in Napa County. Louis M. and his son, Louis P. Martini, were early adopters of cold fermentation, a process that helps preserve a wine's fruit characteristics. They were also among the first to bottle a varietal Merlot in California. In 1938, the family further invested in winemaking by purchasing the Goldstein Ranch in Sonoma, renaming it Monte Rosso Vineyard. Louis M. helped establish the Napa Valley Vintners Association with the aim of developing and promoting the quality of Napa Valley wines worldwide, while Louis P. pioneered the use of wind machines to prevent frost damage in vineyards. In 1954, Louis P. Martini inherited the role of winemaker from his father and would later be inducted into the Vintner's Hall of Fame as a ``Pioneer'' in the wine community. The impact of the winery's legacy extends far beyond wine. In 1994, the Louis P. Martini Endowment was established as a viticulture and enological research fund. This fund has supported students in their research and helped send them to the American Society of Enology and Viticulture National Meeting in Portland, Oregon. In 2019, the original winery was restored, introducing an array of world-class tasting experiences. Among the most significant additions to the winery during the redesign was the creation of a new culinary program, headed by Chef Jeffery Russell, and an extensive food and wine tasting known as the Martini Park and Cabana Experiences. Today, Louis M. Martini Winery has become a go-to destination for comprehensive tastings, educational experiences, and elevated food programs. Mr. Speaker, the Louis M. Martini Winery has established a legacy that encapsulates the enduring commitment and passion of the winemakers, growers, and enthusiasts behind the winery's longevity and success. It has played a crucial role in cultivating Napa Valley's reputation for world-class wines throughout the 20th and 21st centuries. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor their 90 years of winemaking here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Lake County Land Trust, which is celebrating thirty years of protecting Lake County's natural resources including wildlife habitat, wetlands, streams, shorelines, and forests. Thirty years ago, the Lake County Land Trust was formed by a group of concerned residents, including Susanne Scholz, Roberta Lyons, John Graham, Glenn Dishman, Mary Tulanian-Benson, Michael Friel, Judy Cox, Kim Clymire, and Sibyl Day who saw the need for expanded conservation efforts in Lake County. The original officers worked to set up guidelines for the types of property that the Trust would work to preserve and educate themselves about the various funding sources available for land conservation and preservation purposes. Shortly after its founding, the Trust began work to acquire the Rodman Ranch and Preserve, which was well known for its valuable wildlife habitat, including the largest Great Blue Heron rookeries in Northern California. This important property also contained nesting sites for Osprey and Western Grebes. The Rodman Ranch and Preserve remained unprotected and was being touted as an excellent site for housing developments, golf courses, and a marina. In order to protect this critical habitat, the Trust negotiated an option to purchase the property and with a successful ``Adopt-A-Nest'' campaign, they brought in nearly $40,000 toward the $1.2 million purchase price of the land. The Trust was able to preserve the natural habitat of the Rodman Ranch and facilitate the continued health and existence of the many nesting, breeding, and feeding areas for wildlife. In September 2004, the Lake County Trust worked with the Bureau of Land Management and the State Wildlife Conservation Board to secure funding for an acquisition of the Black Forest, a 255-acre forest on the slopes of Mt. Konocti. The Bureau of Land Management now holds title to the land, which is dedicated to open space and wildlife habitat. The Lake County Land Trust has also worked to conserve land and water resources of important environmental, cultural, and historic integrity on behalf of present and future generations. This includes protecting the Rabbit Hill and Chaparral Preserve, Melo Wetland Preserve in 2016, and most recently the Wright Wetland Preserve in 2020. They have successfully done this by working cooperatively with landowners, private groups, and government agencies. Mr. Speaker, the Lake County Land Trust is deeply appreciated for their work preserving Lake County's natural resources through education, cooperation, and conservation. I am proud to have represented this outstanding organization since its inception 30 years ago. Because of the Trust's outstanding work in our Lake County community, it is therefore fitting and proper that we honor them here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today, along with my colleague, Rep. Jared Huffman, to honor Suzanne Smith for her dedicated service to the Sonoma County Transportation Authority and Regional Climate Protection Authority where she worked to build both agencies from the ground up. Ms. Smith received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the University of California, San Diego, where she also studied urban planning. Suzanne would later receive her Master of Arts degree in Public Administration from the University of San Francisco. The Sonoma County Transit Authority (SCTA) and the Regional Climate Protection Authority (RCPA) represent Sonoma County and the area's nine cities. They work together to balance the interests of each local government while spearheading transit projects, and climate protection initiatives. Ms. Smith was hired as the SCTA's first independent executive director in 1997 and later was assigned to lead RCPA as well. Since then, she has grown the team to sixteen curated employees, and worked tirelessly to implement crucial transportation and climate projects and programs in Sonoma County and the North Bay. Ms. Smith led the organizational process that created the Measure M Traffic Relief Act (Measure M). She worked to include it on the 2004 ballot and to ensure it passed. This quarter cent sales tax has been successfully used to improve transportation, transit, safety, and the widening of Highway 101 for carpool lanes. In addition, she oversaw long range planning, and collaborated with partner agencies and the public on policy priorities. Additionally, she was instrumental in the founding legislation for Sonoma Marin Area Rail Transit District (SMART) and the Sonoma County Regional Climate Protection Authority. In 1997, Ms. Smith had three goals: to get a sales tax measure passed to support transportation, widen Highway 101, and establish train service. She not only accomplished her goals, but she has also acted as an incredible leader for the community of Sonoma County. She has made and maintained effective partnerships with agencies and elected officials nationwide and has directed the Sonoma County Transit Authority and Regional Climate Protection Authority through economic downturns and the COVID-19 pandemic. She has served with integrity, foresight, thoughtfulness, and unquestionable dedication and commitment. Ms. Smith demonstrated exceptional interpersonal skills and an innate understanding of how politics work and how to move projects forward. Throughout her professional career, Ms. Smith also served as the district director for State Assembly Member Valerie Brown. She worked on policy issues such as transportation, education, and local government. Ms. Smith is revered by her colleagues not just for her work but also for her friendliness and collegiality. When she is not working, she also loves to spend time with her family including her husband, Tim, her mom, Barbara, her stepchildren, Katie Mason, Nick Smith, and Emily Angelopoulos, and her grandchildren, Cam, Nick, Sidney, Ben, Anthony, and Dominic. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, it is therefore fitting and proper that we recognize Suzanne Smith for her longtime service at the Sonoma County Transit Authority and Regional Climate Protection Authority.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today to honor Eraldi's Men's Wear & Shoes as they celebrate 100 years of business. The longevity of this great establishment is a remarkable accomplishment and a testament to the Eraldi family's creativity, tenacity, and dedication to great customer service. In October of 1923, David Eraldi opened Eraldi's Men's Wear & Shoes on East Napa Street. Originally called `The Toggery' and located in the Castex Building, David meant for it to be a temporary spot. A few years and a name change later, it moved to 492 First Street East in the Duhring Building. After David's death in 1936, his wife Annie took over the store and ran the business with their two sons Dave and Don. Annie Eraldi built the current store at 475 First Street West on a vacant lot that once housed a blacksmith shop, opening it on January 2, 1960. The store passed on to her sons after her death in 1969. In the late 1960's, Dan Eraldi, Don's son, started working at his family's store when he was in middle school. At the time, self- proclaimed ``old-timers'' would head into the back stock room with cups of coffee and tell him stories about old Sonoma. Dan cherished these opportunities to learn about the history of his beloved community. Dan Eraldi officially took over the store in the mid-1980s after graduating from Sacramento State University. Dan continued to work with his father, Don, who ran the store alongside Dave for decades, until he retired in 2013 at the age of 86. Don recently died at the age of 96-- just 10 years after he stepped back from the store. The pair worked together for decades and helped the store change to meet the shifting demands of its clientele. Dan remembers Don fighting him on some of the ideas or brands he wanted to introduce, but overall, they worked well together. Since then, Dan has been chief haberdasher, continuing the family legacy of keeping generations of Sonomans in Levis and Red Wing Boots. Dan has seen countless trends come and go--Hawaiian shirts have had their moment--but the store has always kept its local touch. Eraldi's have third and fourth-generation families shopping at the store. People like the service; it is a personal touch you do not get unless you are in a small store like this one. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, Eraldi's Men's Wear & Shoes is an independent, family run business that is a staple of our community. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor its 100th year of service here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to hundreds of United States Army veterans who are gathering in and around our nation's capital the week of September 25, 2023, to join in reunion of their graduation from the Noncommissioned Officers Candidate Course (NCOCC). The program was established for the training of noncommissioned officers in the U.S. Army. The program operated at Fort Benning, GA, Fort Bliss, TX, Fort Knox, KY, Fort Sill, OK, and Fort Leonard Wood, MO, from 1967 to 1972, during the height of the Vietnam War. As a proud graduate of the program and fellow Vietnam War veteran, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring and saluting these leaders, combat veterans--many of them wounded--and unsung heroes. As the Vietnam War progressed in the 1960s, the Army was running out of noncommissioned officers in several combat specialties. In order to meet these unprecedented requirements for Noncommissioned Officer (NCO) leaders, the Army developed a solution based on the proven Officer Candidate Course. If a carefully selected soldier can be given 23 weeks of intensive training that would qualify him to lead a platoon, then others can be trained to lead squads and fire teams in the same amount of time. From this seed, the NCOCC was born. Army Chief of Staff Gen. Harold K. Johnson approved the concept on June 22, 1967, and on September 5, the first course at Fort Benning (now Fort Moore), Georgia, began with Sgt. Maj. Don Wright serving as the first NCOCC Commandant. Potential candidates for the course were selected from groups of initial entry soldiers who had a security clearance of confidential, an infantry score of 100 or over, and demonstrated leadership potential. Based on recommendations, the unit commander would select potential NCOs, but all were not volunteers. Those selected to attend NCOCC were immediately made corporals and later promoted to sergeant upon graduation from phase one. The select few who graduated with honors would be promoted to staff sergeant. The outstanding graduate of the first class, Staff Sgt. Melvin C. Leverick, recalled ``I think that those who graduated [from the NCOCC] were much better prepared for some of the problems that would arise in Vietnam.'' The NCO candidate course was designed to maximize the two-year tour of the enlisted draftee. Though over 300 hours of instruction was given, eighty percent was conducted in the field. The final basic phase was a ``dress rehearsal for Vietnam,'' a full week of patrols, ambush, defensive perimeters, and navigation. Twice daily, the Vietnam-schooled rangers critiqued the candidates, and all training was conducted tactically. These men, many now of advanced age, served our country with great honor under challenging circumstances. Four were awarded the Medal of Honor. Six are still missing. Many--1,118 in all--never made it home. Mr. Speaker, it is evident that these outstanding noncommissioned officers and combat veterans were an indispensable part of our armed forces and served our country with bravery, dedication, and honor.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor William (Bill) Emanuel Barnaby's 45 years of service to The Doctors Company, the practice of medicine, California, and his country throughout his lifetime and career. Mr, Barnaby was born in Ames, Iowa. His father was a contractor for the United States military during World War II, which caused the family to move around the Southern, and then Eastern parts of the country until they landed in Syracuse, New York. When Mr. Barnaby was 10 years old, his family moved to California and he graduated from Sacramento High School in 1954 at only 16 years old. In 1956, Mr. Barnaby joined the United States Army, completed Army basic training, and spent time stateside before being stationed overseas for active duty. The same year he married his wife, Jean Sanchez, and was stationed near Bordeaux, in the south of France. In late 1957, Mr. Barnaby was transferred from active duty to the United States Army Reserve, California Military District, in which he would serve until his Honorable Discharge in 1963. Upon his transfer from active duty to reserve duty, Mr. Barnaby returned to Sacramento with Jean. While working for the Department of Motor Vehicles and studying at Sacramento Junior College, Mr. Barnaby received an Associate of Arts degree in 1959. He and Jean continued their studies at University of California (UC), Davis, where Mr. Barnaby received a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science in 1961. While at UC Davis, Mr. Barnaby was bitten by the political bug and founded the Young Democrats on the UC Davis campus for the 1960 presidential campaign. Mr. Barnaby then worked in the U.S. Capitol, first for a U.S. Representative from Sacramento, and then as a Congressional Investigator, where he was granted Top Secret Security Clearance by the U.S. Department of Defense. While in Washington, D.C., the Barnaby's welcomed their first child, William Emanual Barnaby III, in 1962. In 1964, Mr. Barnaby returned to Sacramento and was hired to be a Consultant on the Assembly Ways and Means Committee and by KXTV Channel 10 in Sacramento as an election consultant. In 1966, the Barnaby's welcomed their second child, Kenneth Sanchez Barnaby. In 1967, Mr. Barnaby became a Consultant to the Assembly Education Committee. In 1968, Mr. Barnaby was offered a job as Consultant to the Senate Health and Welfare Committee. From 1971 through 74, Mr. Barnaby attended the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law, graduating with a Juris Doctor degree and was admitted to the California State Bar in 1974. Mr. Barnaby left state service in 1976, when the chief lobbyist for the California Medical Association (CMA) hired him as CMA's first in- house lobbyist who was also an actively licensed attorney. Mr. Barnaby did not remain a CMA employee for long, as in 1978 he started his own lobbying firm. Mr. Barnaby added several clients in 1978, some of which he still represents to this day. Since Mr. Barnaby started his lobbying firm, he has worked with all his immediate family members, some longer than others. In 2018, the Barnaby lobbying firm merged with a new firm, which is now known today as Resolute. Mr. Speaker, William (Bill) Emanuel Barnaby is known around the state capitol as a consummate historian of the legislature and for his deep institutional and healthcare policy expertise that are appreciated by all who know him.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Captane ``Cap'' Peter Thomson. Dr. Thomson grew up in Berkeley, California and lived in Davis, California. He was a beloved husband, father, brother, friend, mentor, public servant, and leader in the field of mental health Dr. Thomson was the second generation of his family to attend the University of California (UC), Berkeley and box for their Varsity team. After receiving his M.D. from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), interning at Denver General Hospital, and serving four years in the U.S. Public Health Service, Dr. Thomson completed a residency in psychiatry at the Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. Dr. Thomson then earned an M.S. in Community Mental Health at the Harvard School of Public Health and spent the next year at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. After completing his education, Dr. Thomson settled in Davis and became the director and program chief of Yolo County Mental Health Services. He held this post for almost three decades, crafting ground- breaking programs to treat the severely mentally ill and help reintegrate people back into our communities. Dr. Thomson also served as a clinical professor of psychiatry at UC Davis and UCSF, joyfully passing along his wisdom to the next generation of psychiatrists. Always going where he was needed, Dr. Thomson gained his Board Certification in Forensic Psychiatry and served as an expert witness at trials and parole hearings of mentally ill persons caught up in the criminal justice system. A lifelong adventurer, Dr. Thomson treated the indigenous peoples of Alaska as a U.S. Public Health Service Officer on the Bering Sea Patrol, sailed between Hawaii and Japan on a Coast Guard weather ship, and evaluated aspiring American citizens at the U.S. Consulate in Palermo, Italy. He severed as a doctor at the 1960 Squaw Valley Olympic Games and returned as a member of the Doctor's Ski Patrol at Sugar Bowl for 50 years. Beyond his work, Dr. Thomson loved travelling with his family, going on adventures around the world, visiting National Parks, and taking his family hiking all over his beloved Sierra Nevada mountains, where as a college student he worked in Yosemite as a fireguard. A lifelong runner and member of the Davis Aquatic Masters, he swam with a team across Lake Tahoe and completed numerous endurance swims, triathlons, and eight marathons, including the Boston Marathon. Dr. Thomson was also the banjo player and back-up vocalist for the popular folk and bluegrass music band, The Putah Creek Crawdads, treasurer of the Yolo County Credit Union, and avid walker of several generations of Cairn Terriers. Dr. Thomson's unfailingly cheerful spirit, humble demeanor, sage guidance, and unflinching willingness always to stand up and fight for what is right and just, will be sorely missed. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Helen, his children Morag, Iain, and Mungo, their spouses Kirsten and Kerry, his grandchildren Darian, Eno, Tamsin, and Emit, his brothers Pate and Duncan, and many more loving family members. Mr. Speaker, Dr. Captane ``Cap'' Thomson was a dedicated public servant and leader in our community.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Solano Irrigation District on their 75th anniversary of serving our community. Seventy-five years ago, the Solano Irrigation District (SID) sought to secure irrigation water from the Solano Water Project. This marked the beginning of a journey filled with challenges, achievements, and the steadfast pursuit of excellence. Since then, the district has played a pivotal role in providing vital resources to our community. Today, the Solano Irrigation District stands as a cornerstone of our region's prosperity, delivering 141,000 acre-feet of irrigation water to over 59,000 acres of irrigable land. Not only does it supply bulk untreated water to a population of more than 300,000, including the cities of Benicia, Vacaville, Fairfield, and Vallejo, but it also treats and delivers drinking water to Suisun City, ensuring the well- being of our residents. Unlike many other districts, SID does not need to import any water for its customers, thanks to its foresight in securing valuable water rights and access through `The Solano Project.' This forward-thinking approach has made our district financially stable and well-managed, providing cost-efficient services while maintaining stable water rates. Furthermore, the innovative spirit of the Solano Irrigation District is exemplified by the hydroelectric power plant at the base of Monticello Dam, a pioneering project that has set a remarkable precedent for local agencies across the United States. The Solano Irrigation District has not only been a guardian of water resources but also a catalyst for progress and growth in our community. Its tireless efforts have made SID into a beacon of excellence, ensuring a prosperous future for Solano County. Mr. Speaker, the Solano Irrigation District has been serving our residential and agricultural communities faithfully for 75 years.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Michele Grupe, for her dedicated service at the Cope Family Center. She served as the executive director since 2017 and as part of the leadership of the organization since 2004. Ms. Grupe received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Maryland and is a certified fund-raising executive. Inspired to give children their best possible start in life, Ms. Grupe served as a leader and fundamental member of the organization Cope, where she has worked to empower parents, nurture children, and strengthen communities. Cope Family Center is a Napa Valley nonprofit dedicated to preventing child abuse and support families by providing parents with the education and resources they need to raise thriving children. Throughout her time at Cope, Ms. Grupe has built coalitions between social service agencies, nonprofit organizations, and community members. Her work has created systemic change and a more resilient community for Napa Valley's children and families. Ms. Grupe's commitment to service and her strong work ethic goes beyond her time at Cope. Her efforts to strengthen Napa County families and build a more equitable family-support system requires hard work in the face of adversity. She has served as the co-chair for the Child Abuse Prevention Council of Napa County, commissioner of the First 5 Napa County Commission, chair of the Greater Bay Area Child Abuse Prevention Council, Steering Committee Member for the Community Leaders Coalition, and member of the California Family Resource Center Policy Committee. She has also demonstrated her commitment to social justice by volunteering for campaigns and initiatives. Ms. Grupe has been a force for good in our community. Her commitment to the well-being of her staff, her collaborative partners, and our community has been unfailing.