Mike Thompson

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, every day 30 people are killed by someone using a gun. That number jumps to 100 if you factor in accidents and suicides involving guns. The steady stream of gun violence devastates families, communities, and schools. Gun violence costs our country $280 billion every year. This status quo is not okay. Our constituents know it, and they support H.R. 8 overwhelmingly. The Special Order last night on H.R. 8 was another low point for decorum in the House. To be generous, it was an embarrassing display and a complete misrepresentation of the facts. Viewers were told that the bill would create a Federal gun registry. Wrong. Read page 5, line 18. H.R. 8 prohibits any registry. They were told you can't give a gun to a family member. Wrong. Read page 3, line 7. You can. They were told that you can't transfer a gun if someone was suicidal or needed it for protection to address a self-defense situation. Wrong. Read page 3, line 21. You can. They were told that you can't lend a gun to a friend to go hunting. Wrong. Read page 4, line 16. You can. What the bill does do is close the private gun sale loophole, which has made it easy for felons and other prohibited purchasers to buy a gun online, at gun shows, or in person-to-person sales. We know universal background checks work. Every day they stop some 160 felons and some 50 domestic abusers from buying a gun. Every day. But without universal background checks, these people can take their business elsewhere, to someone without a Federal firearms license and buy the same gun. I have personally filled out the 4473 form required to buy a gun from a licensed dealer. I have done it many times. It is something that every responsible gun owner should be able to live with. Heck, they should welcome it because it helps stop dangerous individuals from getting a gun. In 90 percent of the cases, background checks are completed within minutes. Mr. Speaker, I ask that these letters that I have from dozens of gun violence prevention groups, healthcare workers, law enforcement, and others be included in the Record. March 5, 2021. Hon. Chuck Schumer, Majority Leader, U.S. Senate, Washington, DC. Hon. Nancy Pelosi, Speaker, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Hon. Mitch McConnell, Minority Leader, U.S. Senate, Washington, DC. Hon. Kevin McCarthy, Republican Leader, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Majority Leader Schumer, Leader McConnell, Speaker Pelosi, and Leader McCarthy: We write to you in support of H.R. 8/S. 529 the Bipartisan Background Checks Act and H.R. 1446/S. 591 the Enhanced Background Checks Act. As gun owners, we understand that responsible gun ownership starts with background check. Loopholes in federal law have perpetuated the gun violence crisis in our country, including those in our background checks system. Congress must enact meaningful legislation to reduce gun violence. The Bipartisan Background Checks Act would close one such loophole by ensuring that a background check happens on every firearms sale. Since 1993, the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) has conducted firearm background checks on gun purchasers. Federally licensed dealers must run a check through NICS to determine whether a potential buyer is prohibited from purchasing firearms. If information in NICS shows that a person is indeed prohibited, the dealer must deny the sale. However, no background check is required for sales at gun shows, through online marketplaces, or between private individuals. Individuals who would otherwise be prohibited from purchasing or possessing a gun can easily buy guns through such unregulated sales. And the frequency of these unregulated sales is growing: recent studies indicate that approximately 22 percent of firearms are purchased without a background check, up to 80% of firearms used in crimes are obtained without a background check. H.R. 8/S.B. 529 the Bipartisan Background Checks Act/ Background Check Expansion Act would require a background check on every sale, ensuring that people prohibited from purchasing firearms cannot exploit loopholes and purchase guns through an unregulated sale at a gun show, online, or from an unlicensed private seller. In addition, individuals would no longer be able to cross state lines solely to purchase a firearm in a state with less stringent background checks. Closing these background check loopholes is critical to reducing gun violence throughout the United States. Additionally, H.R. 1446/S. 591 the Enhanced Background Checks Act/Background Check Completion Act would provide the FBI more time to complete background checks and ensure that people prohibited from possessing firearms are not able to obtain them by default because of an incomplete background check. This deadly loophole in existing law was exploited by a white supremacist who killed nine people at the Mother Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina. As responsible gun owners, we urge you to consider this legislation which would help keep our communities safe. Our support for universal background checks stems from our desire to protect the Second Amendment rights of law abiding citizens while maintaining checks and balances to keep communities safe. We urge you to pass H.R. 8/S. 529 the Bipartisan Background Checks Act/Background Check Expansion Act and H.R. 1446/S. 591 the Enhanced Background Checks Act/Background Check Completion Act, as soon as possible. Sincerely, Giffords Gun Owners for Safety.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the first en bloc amendment, which stipulates that nothing in this act shall limit the ability of the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture to manage forest fires, insects, and diseases in designated wilderness areas under the Wilderness Act. Land conservation is an investment in our future, but it is equally important that we continue to manage our wilderness areas responsibly. Over the past several years, my district and others across our great country have been hit hard by historically damaging wildfires. To protect countless communities, the Federal Government must ensure wilderness areas are adequately managed to minimize the impacts of wildfires. I want to thank Chairman Grijalva and Representatives Panetta and Lofgren for being champions of public lands and responsible land management. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to join them on this amendment, and I strongly urge an ``aye'' vote on the first en bloc amendment.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this legislation. The American people are hurting, half a million people are dead, tens of millions have gotten sick. Millions have lost their jobs, businesses have shut down, many closed forever, and kids can't go to school. Families are without food and behind on their rent. This bill provides direct payments to Americans and helps small businesses and restaurants. It provides crucial funding for State and local governments, funding for vaccines, childcare, and critical funds to get our kids back safely to school. Mr. Speaker, I urge everyone to vote for this bill, the American people are counting on us.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor my Chief of Staff, Melanie Rhinehart Van Tassell, for a decade of service to me and to the people of California's Fifth Congressional District. Born in Santa Cruz and raised in Antioch, Melanie attended high school and college in the East Bay, graduating in 1996 with dual degrees in Political Science and Business from the University of California, Berkeley. She went to work in the litigation consulting industry until 2001, when she left to earn a Master's in Business Administration at New York University's Stern School of Business. Upon graduation, she moved to Washington, D.C. to use her intellect for public service. Melanie began her career on Capitol Hill as a part-time intern in Congress before being hired as a legislative assistant to Congressman Earl Pomeroy in March of 2004. In just three short years, she took over as his legislative director, overseeing the congressman's policy agenda. After the 2010 midterm elections, I hired her to manage my legislative team at the strong recommendation of Congressman Pomeroy. Within months, she was promoted to Chief of Staff, becoming possibly the kindest, most genuine person to ever serve in such a position. In my office, Melanie has proven herself to be an effective, charismatic leader and a skilled political operative. Handling issues of the utmost importance to our district, she has taken on a portfolio that spans natural disasters to the Wine Caucus. All the while, she has used her unbelievably positive, infectious personality to make everyone she interacts with feel special. Despite the long hours involved with leading a congressional office, Melanie carves out quality time to spend with her husband Steven and their young son Shane, whom she has ingrained with a deep appreciation for two of her favorite things--Disney and stuffed animals. Volunteering as Silent Auction Chair for her son's preschool in Alexandria, she showcased the same tenacity that serves her so well as Chief of Staff. Melanie raised over $20,000 for two consecutive school years, blowing out any record in the school's history. Madam Speaker, my staff, myself, and the people of our district are deeply grateful for Melanie Rhinehart Van Tassell's expert guidance over these last 10 years. She personifies service, generosity, and leadership, and I am especially proud and honored to have her as my Chief of Staff.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of National Burn Awareness Week and the incredible work that the American Burn Association is doing to promote burn awareness, treatment, rehabilitation, research and prevention. About 400,000 people are treated for burn injuries every year. Today, thanks to medical advances and greater education and awareness, almost 97 percent of those who suffer a burn injury survive. However, many are left seriously scarred or with life-long physical disabilities. That's why the American Burn Association launched National Burn Awareness Week to spread awareness about the seriousness of burn injuries and the steps each of us can take to prevent them. The theme of this year's National Burn Awareness Week is electrical safety. Here are a few tips that can keep you and your family safe. First, always plug major appliances directly into a wall socket instead of using extension cords or power strips and always check cords for cracked or frayed sockets, loose or bare wire and loose connections before use. This is especially important around water, as electric current from a dock or marina's power supply can cause nearby swimmers to become incapacitated and drown due to electric shock. In addition, never keep batteries in your pocket because they can short circuit when the positive and negative ends come into contact, either directly with each other or indirectly through other metal objects. Madam Speaker, we can prevent burn injuries by taking simple, commonsense preventive measures. It is therefore fitting and proper that this Congress designates the week of February 7-13, 2021 as National Burn Awareness Week.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Stephen Gale upon his retirement as Senior District Representative in my Santa Rosa office, and to recognize his longtime commitment to his community in Sonoma County. Stephen knows the meaning of hard work. From picking apricots in his teens to earning the title of youngest Section Head at Hughes Aircraft Company, Stephen has been known as a humble, yet driven man. Not content with this early success, he returned to school, earning a Master's in Business Administration from the University of Southern California. Embarking on his second career, he found success as Director of Strategic Investments at Fair Isaac and founder of Wellspring Business Development. Stephen has always had a passion for public service. Before joining my staff, he served as the Board of Public Utilities Chair for Santa Rosa, where he directed water distribution and spearheaded projects to develop renewable resources. He has also served as Business Representative to the County Commission that established the Sonoma- Marin Area Regional Transportation system and as the founding Chair of the North Bay Leadership Council. On top of his official duties, he found time to organize a week-long business simulation to teach entrepreneurial skills to high school students. For this, the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors awarded him a Gold Resolution in recognition of his leadership. Stephen's motivation to better our community led him to developing a passion for politics. In 2008, he was chosen to serve as Chair of the Sonoma County Democratic Party and revitalized the organization. His innate ability to bring together people of all political leanings, from progressives to moderates, helped him build a powerful Democratic coalition that secured Democratic victories and drove civic engagement. After the conclusion of his second term as chair, he joined the state party's Rules committee, where he used his expert knowledge of parliamentary procedures to ensure efficient and productive party activities. For seven years, Stephen has served our district well as the Senior District Representative in my Santa Rosa district office. As my countywide liaison for Sonoma County, he has worked to advance the interests of many important facets of the county, including agricultural producers and labor. Additionally, he has helped to lead the community through many trials and tribulations, including the 2017 Tubbs fire and the Coronavirus pandemic. Notably, he was instrumental in advocating, both on the local and federal level, for the creation of the Veterans Village, which provided 14 homes for homeless veterans in Santa Rosa. Madam Speaker, Stephen Gale has made our community proud everyday through his passion and commitment to Sonoma County. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor him here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the life and legacy of Sophie Pasibe and to recognize the impact she had on the Filipino-American community in Vallejo and Benicia. Born September 29, 1931 in the Municipality of Agoo in La Union, Philippines, Ms. Sophie Pasibe's life was characterized by her years as a teacher, philanthropist, and public servant. Before her emigration from the Philippines to the United States in 1969, Ms. Pasibe served her community as a fourth grade teacher. Soon after arriving in the United States, she continued her teaching career for the Stockton Unified School District. In 1975, Ms. Pasibe settled in Benicia, California, where she resided for the remainder of her life. Ms. Pasibe had a huge impact on advancing the interests of the Filipino-American community. She was a leader, serving as vice president of the Agooenians of California, president of Fil-Ams of Benicia, and chair of the Lakbay Aral Program. Additionally, she helped to found both the Young Generations of Agoo and the Solano County Filipino-American Chamber of Commerce. Through her leadership, she helped to advance the prosperity and cultural expression of her community through projects like the Lakbay Aral Travel Study Program, a collaboration with the Fili Am Chamber and Philippine government to send Filipino-American teenagers to the Philippines, many for the first time, to connect with their roots through an immersive program. Ms. Pasibe's dedication to her community further fueled her philanthropy, as she served as a certified court interpreter, traveling throughout much of California. Furthermore, she utilized her artistry and creativity to sell crafts at street fairs, with all proceeds going back to her home in the Philippines. Ms. Pasibe will be remembered by her selfless dedication to others. Madam Speaker, Ms. Sophie Pasibe was a committed community advocate and exceptional leader who dedicated her life to serving the Filipino community.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Cotati City Councilmember John Dell'Osso for his three terms of distinguished service. Our community is deeply grateful for his leadership and advocacy and congratulates him on a well-deserved retirement. A resident of Cotati since 1986, Councilmember Dell'Osso has established himself as a pillar of our community. A National Park Ranger by profession, he worked at Point Reyes National Seashore for more than 35 years, serving as Chief of Interpretation and Resource Education and later as Public Information Officer until his retirement in 2019. In recognition of his exemplary efforts in this capacity, he was awarded the U.S. Department of the Interior's National Partners in Conservation Award in 2009 and the National Achieving Relevance Award in 2016. Throughout his tenure in city government, Councilmember Dell'Osso has shown himself to be a leader among leaders. In addition to serving three terms as Cotati's Mayor, he sat as Chair of the Sonoma County Mayors and Councilmembers Association in 2014, offering sage advice and wisdom to public leaders from across our community. A steadfast supporter of parks and open spaces, and an avid bird watcher, Councilmember Dell'Osso distinguished himself as an ally to conservationists in the city and beyond. As a strong advocate for public service, he has no doubt inspired many others to follow in his footsteps and fight for environmental stewardship, safer neighborhoods, and a stronger economy. Aside from his professional and political life, he has also devoted himself to philanthropic causes. Councilmember Dell'Osso has given his time to numerous social benefit organizations, including stints as a board member of both the Rancho Cotate High School Graduation Project and Friends of the San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge. These pursuits further evidence his selfless dedication to our community. Madam Speaker, the City of Cotati is indebted to Councilmember John Dell'Osso for his years of diligent public service. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor him here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Cotati City Councilmember Wendy Skillman on the occasion of her retirement after more than eight years of dedicated service to our community. Councilmember Skillman's record as a public servant traces back to 2008, when she first moved to Cotati. As a member of the city's Community and Environment Commission, she organized beloved events including the annual Christmas tree lighting and the ever-popular Pasta Feed and Bingo Night. After more than three years as the Commission's Secretary and later Vice Chair, she assumed the role of Cotati Planning Commissioner, where she developed strategies in cooperation with local businesses and homeowners to grow the city's economy while protecting its small-town charm. Those she worked with appreciated her ability to find common ground and advance solutions that served everyone's interests. Following her initial foray into city politics, Councilmember Skillman ran a successful campaign for City Council in 2012. Focusing on affordable housing and championing local small businesses, she generated wide-spread community support that carried her to a resounding reelection victory four years later. Throughout her terms, she has prioritized cooperation and compromise, leading to many successes. Under her watch, the city emerged from its financial troubles, not only keeping public services operational, but expanding the Police Department, adding new Public Works employees, and kick- starting recreation programs. Well respected by her fellow Council Members, she served with distinction as the Vice Mayor of Cotati in 2014 and 2019 and as Mayor in 2015 and 2020. Her leadership, dedication, and tenacity will surely be missed by her colleagues and constituents. Madam Speaker, Councilmember Wendy Skillman exemplifies the very best qualities that our community looks to in a leader. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor her here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H. Res. 24, a resolution of impeachment against the President of the United States. Our institution of representative democracy is a beacon of hope for millions of people around the world and has been for nearly 250 years. Last week, the President changed all that when he incited domestic terrorists to tear that beacon down. He put the lives of every person in our Capitol at risk, including those in the presidential line of succession, Members of Congress, congressional employees and staff, and the men and women of the U.S. Capitol Police. The insurrectionists wanted to hang the Vice President, kill the Speaker and take Members of Congress hostage. They came frighteningly close to achieving their objective. Make no mistake, the attack the President incited on January 6, 2021, was an illegal power grab. It was a criminal attempt to disrupt the certification of the Electoral College vote, to overturn the result of our Presidential election and to decimate our democracy. The President knew what he was doing. He knew the lies he spewed on Twitter, at his rally on the Ellipse and through his surrogates had the potential to inspire violence. He did not care. In fact, the President was reportedly delighted by the mayhem he unleashed. There has never been a more unconscionable act of sedition from a public servant, let alone a President of the United States. This seditious act must have consequences. That's why, today, I am voting for the Article of Impeachment charging the President with inciting the January 6 insurrection. He must be held accountable. The Senate must swiftly convict and remove the President from office. He is too dangerous to remain another week.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, the President of the United States instigated an attack against our democracy. For months, he ginned up his supporters with lies about our election and incited them to violence. On the 6th of January, he unleashed a mob on the Capitol. The President must be held accountable for this vile attack. He knew what he was doing, and now, five people are dead. Congress will not be intimidated. America will not succumb to mob rule. The Vice President can initiate removal of a President who is unfit for office, and this President is unfit. He must be removed. Mr. Speaker, I urge a ``yes'' vote on this resolution, and I urge a ``yes'' vote on impeachment tomorrow.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of this legislation. To be clear, this package is nowhere near enough. House Democrats passed three times more relief in May; our Republican colleagues did nothing. We passed more than double this 2 months ago; our Republican colleagues did nothing. This package is not commensurate to the magnitude of the crisis we face. We need to do more, including vital aid to State and local governments and help for our restaurant industry, but this is a start. This legislation includes important funding for vaccine distribution, schools, small businesses, and a desperately needed extension of unemployment insurance. I am pleased that this legislation also extends clean energy tax credits, provides disaster tax assistance, helps prevent tragic flame jetting accidents, and provides help for the hardworking men and women in my district and across this country. Madam Speaker, this is not enough, but it is a start. I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes.''

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor and recognize Trent Yaconelli, the Executive Director of St. Helena and Calistoga Boys & Girls Club. Trent Yaconelli was born in La Mesa, California, and grew up in Yreka, California. In 1993, he graduated from Sonoma State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Teacher Education. He has also received a Non-Profit Management Certification from The University of Texas at Austin in 2012. Mr. Yaconelli has used his education to aid his community through times of hardship, serving as the Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Club since 2017. Before serving as Executive Director, Mr. Yaconelli had served on the Club's staff for more than 20 years and as Associate Executive Director for four and half years. Drawing on his years of community service, Mr. Yaconelli has shown an immense capacity to exercise moral leadership and empathy through natural disasters and on-going adversity. He worked with the Club staff to deliver more than 25,000 meals to the community, day-to-day, during the devastating Glass Fire. Recognizing that many of the people who were affected by the fire had lost their homes and were ineligible to receive disaster relief funds, Mr. Yaconelli worked with the Club to distribute more than $70,000 in direct gifts to fifteen club families. Particularly, he helped distribute three cars to families that lost their vehicles in the fire, along with an additional $15,000 in individual grants to help them get back on their feet. Trent Yaconelli's tireless work over these past fourteen years should not go unnoticed. The support that he has given to the families and children of Calistoga and St. Helena has undoubtedly improved the livelihood of his community. In this spirit, Mr. Yaconelli is currently serving the students of the St. Helena Unified School District while they are participating in distance learning. His encompassing knowledge of his community continues to serve the youth and the families that need him the most. Madam Speaker, Trent Yaconelli exemplifies strong integrity and leadership through his dedication to public service. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor him here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the extraordinary life and service of Michael Miller, Sr. Michael Miller leaves behind a significant legacy of advocacy for his community of Rodeo, California and on behalf of his brothers and sisters in labor, with Phillips 66 United Steel Workers (USW) Local 326. Mr. Miller's passion for community involvement and activism within Contra Costa County will leave a lasting impact. Mr. Miller worked for 30 years at the Phillips 66 San Francisco Refinery in Maintenance, Oil Movements and Bulk Utilities, as well as on the Renewable Diesel project. A natural born leader, Mr. Miller served as president of USW 326 for more than 10 years, advocating at the state and federal level for 250 workers who serve as the backbone of American industry and fighting to protect wages and jobs. Mr. Miller was a strong supporter of the Phillips 66: Rodeo Renewed Project, which will continue to provide livable wage careers for the next generation of steelworkers. Mr. Miller's dedication to his community extended beyond his work on labor rights advocacy. For over a decade, Miller donned a red suit and white beard and played Santa Claus, bringing holiday cheer at many Contra Costa County events. He also donated his time to uplift those struggling families and neighbors in his community through his work with the New Horizons Career Development Center and his community engagement work with the Bayo Vista community. Madam Speaker, Michael Miller was the type of dedicated community member and leader we should all strive to be. His legacy leaves an opportunity for us all to become more involved in our communities and uphold the American dream. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor him here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today along with my colleague, Rep. Jared Huffman, to honor Supervisor Shirlee Zane in celebration of her 12 years of service on the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors. After graduating from Chico State University, Shirlee Zane earned Master's degrees in Theology from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School and in Family Counseling from Sonoma State University. She served as a minister, social worker, and special education professional before being elected to the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors in 2008. Supervisor Zane has drawn upon over 30 years of experience in human services to advocate for increased mental health services in the County of Sonoma. She worked tirelessly to pass Measure O in Sonoma County, which boosts spending on mental health and homelessness services, and expands the behavioral health mobile support team to assist law enforcement on mental health and substance abuse calls. Supervisor Zane is also an avid supporter of strong environmental policies, having served as a director of the Bay Area Air Quality Management District and played an important role in establishing Sonoma Clean Power. Perhaps the best testament to Shirlee Zane's dedication to her community is her exemplary work to assist people experiencing homelessness by providing them with a place to live. She was instrumental in creating Santa Rosa's Veterans Village, which houses fourteen formerly homeless veterans, and securing funding for The Palms Inn, which provides permanent supportive housing for 130 formerly homeless residents. Supervisor Zane's leadership has not gone unnoticed, having earned the National Alliance on Mental Illness's California Recovery Practitioner Award, the National Union of Healthcare Workers Patient Recovery Award, the Reverend Coffee Human Rights Award and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Community Service Award. Madam Speaker, Supervisor Shirlee Zane is the kind of citizen we should all strive to be. Sonoma County is certainly better as a result of her dedicated service. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor her here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Supervisor Rob Brown for more than 20 years of dedicated public service in Lake County on the occasion of his retirement. In his five terms as County Supervisor, he has displayed a practical, sensible approach to leadership that has endeared him to his colleagues and constituents. A Lake County native, Supervisor Brown has made it his mission to address the most important issues facing his life-long home. In response to the devastating 2015 Valley Fire, he stepped up to lead the county's response and recovery efforts and personally oversaw the evacuation of Clearlake Riviera when law enforcement was overstrained. Never a man to leave things unfinished, he spearheaded extended land management assistance under the Benefit Zone initiative and brought volunteers together under the ``1,000 Hands Project'' to mitigate future wildfire risks. When the Coronavirus pandemic threatened lives and livelihoods, he once again rose to the challenge, developing plans to distribute more than $1 million in CARES Act funding to businesses in need. Even in more certain times, Supervisor Brown never became complacent, tirelessly pursuing projects to benefit his constituents. He was instrumental in securing private funding for the construction of the Children's Multi-Disciplinary Interview Center for the District Attorney's Office, which has gained recognition as a powerful tool to improve child welfare. Always attuned to the need to preserve our natural and historic heritage, he led the acquisition of Mt. Konocti as a County Park and the establishment of the Ely Stage Stop Agricultural Museum. Even while working diligently to accomplish these goals, Supervisor Brown made a name for himself as a uniquely humorous, compassionate community member, partner, father, and grandfather. Madam Speaker, Supervisor Rob Brown has distinguished himself as a civic leader with integrity, intellect, and savvy. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor him here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Rohnert Park City Councilmember Gina Belforte for more than a decade of service to our community. As we mark her retirement, it is important to recognize her contributions to the City of Rohnert Park and the greater North Bay. Councilmember Belforte was first elected in 2008 and has served three terms with honor and integrity, including terms as mayor and vice mayor. Throughout her years in office, she has worked hard to stabilize the city budget while maintaining essential services, and has always strived to give a voice to the underrepresented. She has also been a regional leader as the Sonoma County appointee to the Golden Gate Bridge Highway and Transportation District and as a member of the Sonoma Clean Power Board of Directors. Through her passion and commitment, Councilmember Belforte has ensured a stronger, brighter future for Rohnert Park and our greater community. Aside from her noteworthy record as a public servant, Councilmember Belforte is a well-regarded business leader. In recognition of her success in the face of barriers that exist for woman-owned enterprises, she was awarded the Women's Initiative for Self-Employment Woman Entrepreneur of the of the Year award in 2010. Using her business acumen for charitable causes, she has also served with distinction as the President of both Sonoma County Adult and Youth Development and the Rotary Club of Rohnert Park--Cotati. Although she is retiring from public service, her impact on our community will continue. Madam Speaker, Councilmember Gina Belforte is an exceptional public servant, a true friend, and has dedicated herself to principled service to the city and people of Rohnert Park. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor her here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mayor Roy Swearingen, and to celebrate his over 16 years of public service to the City of Pinole. Mayor Swearingen has been a resident of Pinole for over 40 years. He began his career in construction and eventually owned his own small business. He is a dedicated public servant, having spent 16 years on the Pinole City Council, leading the Council as Mayor for five of those years. He has also served on the Pinole Chamber of Commerce for six years, including two years as president. Drawing upon his many years in business, Mayor Swearingen has helped guide the City of Pinole through many challenges and hardships. His leadership during the 2008 recession, including steering the effort to create a balanced budget, was vital to the City of Pinole's economic recovery. Mayor Swearingen's business acumen was indispensable in guiding the recent upgrade to the Pinole/Hercules Water Pollution Control Plant, which will help keep our oceans clean and will benefit the community for generations to come. Mayor Swearingen's dedication to his community extends beyond the roles that he has served in office. He is a highly involved member of the Pinole Rotary Club and the West Contra Costa Police Activities League, having served as president of both organizations. Though he is retiring from the City Council, Mayor Swearingen will continue to serve his community as the Treasurer of the City of Pinole. His leadership and expertise will surely be an asset in the coming years. Madam Speaker, Mayor Roy Swearingen's integrity and continued dedication to public service is an inspiration to us all. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor him here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mayor Elizabeth Patterson, and to celebrate her retirement from the City of Benicia after 17 years of public service. Born in Los Angeles, Mayor Patterson has lived in Benicia since 1983. Prior to her time in local government, she worked for California's Department of Water Resources as an environmental scientist for three decades and served as the Executive Director of the Partnership for Regional Livability on the White House Task Force on Livable Communities under President Clinton. In 2003, Mayor Patterson was elected to the Benicia City Council, where she served for four years before being elected as Mayor in 2007. Throughout her years of leadership in Benicia, Mayor Patterson has championed environmental preservation initiatives. She was instrumental in the creation of Benicia's Community Sustainability Commission, which will promote environmentally friendly economic development for years to come. Mayor Patterson has also played a vital role in enacting Benicia's Water Smart Program, both conserving water and lowering costs for the community. Beyond her commitment to sustainability, Mayor Patterson has been a leader in promoting cultural advancement and preservation in Benicia by creating Benicia's Arts and Cultural Commission and increasing the number of designated historical properties. Madam Speaker, Mayor Patterson is an outstanding public servant with a deep dedication to her community. Even in retirement, she plans to continue fighting for environmental protections. Mayor Patterson exemplifies true leadership and integrity, and she will have a lasting impact on the City of Benicia. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor her here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the accomplishments of Mayor Joseph T. Callinan of Rohnert Park in celebration of his twelve years serving on the Rohnert Park City Council. Joseph Callinan was born in Rohnert Park, Sonoma County, California and is a lifelong resident of the city. In 2008, he was elected to city council and has served three terms. Callinan first became mayor in 2013, and served as vice mayor in 2019, before his current appointment. Apart from serving his community as a member of the city council and as mayor, Mr. Callinan also owns a successful construction company that operates throughout Sonoma, Napa and Marin counties. As mayor, Callinan supported investments to update city infrastructure. This included repaving the roads and a testament to Callinan's commitment to public safety, the construction of a new fire station. He helped foster a greater sense of community by voting to approve a new downtown for Rohnert Park, to create a vibrant public gathering place, and two new parks, Maurice Fredericks Park and Five Creek Park. Most notably, Mayor Callinan addressed the increased demand for more affordable housing during his years in public service. Multiple housing projects have begun construction during his time in office, with many of them aimed at low-income families and seniors. The most recent of these are the WillowGlen Neighborhood and The Redwoods at University District. In addition, Callinan advocated for the continuation of homebuilding in Rohnert Park during the COVID-19 pandemic to help alleviate the ongoing housing crisis as many projects were halted mid- build. Madam Speaker, Joseph T. Callinan has lived in Rohnert Park for 60 years. His love and dedication for his community is evident by his tenure on the city council and as mayor. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor him here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mayor Bob Sampayan in honor of the impact he had on the community of Vallejo, California during his tenure as mayor and his achievements as a public servant. Raised in Salinas, California, Mayor Sampayan graduated from San Jose State University with a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice. He worked as a police officer in Salinas and Palo Alto before joining the Vallejo Police Department in 1985. After 27 years as a Vallejo police officer, Mayor Sampayan retired as a Sergeant to join a local non- profit, overseeing several neighborhood revitalization projects. In 2011, he returned to public service after being elected to the Vallejo City Council, where he served for four years before being elected in 2016 as the first Filipino American to serve as Mayor in the City of Vallejo. Mayor Sampayan has had a significant impact during his years of public service. His work on the council has been vital to the development and improvement of Mare Island. While on the City Council, he also played a key role in Vallejo's financial recovery from bankruptcy and worked to create economic stability for the City. As Mayor, he has overseen an annual budget reserve of nearly $1 million, ensuring Vallejo's fiscal wellbeing in the years to come. He has also fought for solutions to the housing crisis and to improve homelessness in Vallejo, successfully securing over $7 million in funding to create a resource center for the unsheltered. Mayor Sampayan has been a fierce advocate of sustainable growth and development for the City, and his leadership and dedication have undoubtedly been an inspiration to those who have known him. Madam Speaker, Mayor Sampayan is a committed public servant and outstanding leader who has dedicated his life to serving his community. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor him here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Councilman Peter Murray, and to celebrate his 31 years of public service to the City of Pinole. Councilman Murray's dedication to his community is lifelong and enduring. His service to the City of Pinole began in 1989 when he joined the Pinole Planning Commission. In 1992, he was elected to the Pinole City Council, and went on to serve for seven terms, including as Mayor of Pinole for seven separate years During his 28 years on the City Council, Councilman Murray has earned the respect and appreciation of the public, and has consistently focused on bettering his community. His economic leadership was instrumental in bringing new businesses to the area, such as by revitalizing the Pinole Valley Shopping Center. Councilman Murray has also worked hard to improve public safety through growing Pinole's Neighborhood Watch program and pursuing community-oriented policing practices. He played an important role in upgrading the Pinole-Hercules Water Pollution Control Plant, which will continue to protect our natural resources for decades to come. Councilman Murray's leadership in his community goes beyond his duties as a City Councilman. Since 1997, he has coached local Little League and Youth Soccer teams and inspired countless young people with his integrity and dedication. He has also coordinated the Annual Pinole Coastal Cleanup for many years, protecting our coastlines from pollution. Madam Speaker, Councilman Peter Murray is an outstanding public servant who has dedicated his life to serving his community. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor him here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Vice Mayor Jake Mackenzie, and to celebrate his retirement from the Rohnert Park City Council after 24 years of storied service. Vice Mayor Mackenzie is an outstanding public servant, a committed environmentalist, and a tireless advocate for the Rohnert Park community. After earning his PhD in pesticide research in 1970, he spent three decades working as a pesticide regulator for both the State of California and the Environmental Protection Agency. He was first elected to the Rohnert Park City Council in 1996, running on a platform of natural land preservation in the city. He has served 24 years on the council, including 5 terms as Mayor. Throughout his time on the City Council, Vice Mayor Mackenzie has been a regional leader on environmental preservation and transportation issues. His environmental expertise has been instrumental in creating long-term sustainable growth in Sonoma County. While leading the North Coast Resource Partnership, Vice Mayor Mackenzie secured over $65 million in funding to protect Northern California open spaces for future generations. He has been a fierce advocate of affordable housing and public transportation, serving on the board of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority for 12 years, and the Sonoma County Transportation Authority for 20 years. He played a vital role in the development of the Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit passenger train, an extremely important service that will benefit the entire region for years to come. Madam Speaker, Vice Mayor Jake Mackenzie is an exceptional public servant with a deep dedication to his community. He exemplifies the integrity we should expect from our leaders, and he has undoubtedly had a significant and lasting impact on the City of Rohnert Park. I am proud to call him a friend. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor him here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mayor Jill Techel for her leadership and accomplishments, and to mark her retirement after 16 years as Mayor of the City of Napa. Jill Techel grew up in Grand Forks, North Dakota and earned a Bachelor's degree in social work from the University of North Dakota. She moved to Napa in 1971, where she began her public service career as a member of the Napa Parks and Recreation Commission and the Napa Valley Unified School District Board, eventually serving as the leader of both organizations, all while raising her two children. In 1996, she was appointed to the Napa City Council, where she was reelected twice before being elected Mayor in 2005. One of Mayor Techel 's most important achievements during her tenure was championing the Napa River and Napa Creek Flood Protection Project, which rerouted the Napa River to prevent devastating floods in downtown Napa, a consistent problem in the city before her efforts. Without Mayor Techel's persistence in advocating for funding in Washington on behalf of Napa, this project would not have been realized. Mayor Techel's legacy extends far beyond her commitment to flood prevention. She has helped build up Napa 's world-class reputation by cultivating a vibrant arts scene through the creation of the Rail Arts District, BottleRock Festival, and the Napa Art Walk. She has also supported arts education, collaborating with the school district to allow students to display their art at the Napa Lighted Art Festival, Napa 's newest public art efforts. Through her calming presence, Mayor Techel has led the city through multiple crises, including the 2005 flood, the 2014 earthquake, the 2017 fires, and the coronavirus pandemic. Throughout her time as mayor, Mayor Techel has been recognized countless times for leadership and dedication to her community. In 2004, she received the Preceptor Award for Outstanding Leadership Professionals from the National Community Leadership Association. Following the 2014 South Napa Earthquake, Mayor Techel was named the Napa Chamber Citizen of the Year for demonstrating immense leadership in her fight for resources to assist in Napa's recovery. Madam Speaker, I join Napa in wishing Mayor Techel well as she goes from caring for her city to caring for her grandchildren in retirement. Mayor Jill Techel exemplifies a strong, commonsense leader with admirable dedication to serving her community. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor her today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the city employees of my hometown, St. Helena, California, for their bravery and service while protecting our community from the devastating Glass Fire. These first responders, public works employees, and civil servants rose to responsibilities well outside of their roles, exhibiting altruism and versatility in their efforts to protect our community in times of crisis. St. Helena is fortunate to have dedicated first responders to call upon when disaster strikes. Despite dangerous conditions, the men and women of the St. Helena Fire Department courageously battled the blaze for 23 continuous days. Working 12- and 24-hour shifts, they successfully defended our city from the wildfire. In coordination with the Fire Department's efforts, the St. Helena Police Department went door to door to notify residents of the mandatory evacuation orders. Officers, many of whom were displaced by the Glass Fire, worked night and day to ensure public safety by closing roads and escorting evacuees to collect their belongings. In addition to the heroes in St. Helena's emergency services, other city employees answered the call to safeguard our community. Six Public Works employees risked their lives to shield vital infrastructure at the Louis Stralla Water Treatment Plant and the Bell Canyon Reservoir from destruction, fighting flames in their street clothes alongside city and CalFire crews. Persevering through power outages and poor air quality, city workers across numerous city departments continued to work to meet critical needs in the face of disaster. These are only a few examples of the tremendous grit and commitment city employees showed during the emergency. Lastly, the city of St. Helena could not have gotten through this disaster without strong leaders at its helm. In particular, Fire Chief John Sorenson, Police Chief Chris Hartley, and City Manager Mark Prestwich distinguished themselves through their exemplary leadership and expertise in coordinating the city's response. Madam Speaker, during times of crisis, our citizens often look to their public servants for guidance and assistance. The employees of the City of St. Helena represent the very best in service, dedication, and selfless conviction to community. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor them today.