Mike Thompson

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Sonoma, California City Manager Carol Giovanatto upon retirement from an impressive career in local government that has spanned 41 years. A native of Cloverdale, California Ms. Giovanatto graduated from Cloverdale High School and attended classes at Santa Rosa Junior College. In addition to her work with the City of Sonoma, Ms. Giovanatto has brought her strong leadership skills to many committees and boards on which she serves. During her tenure as City Manager, Carol was instrumental in addressing important city issues and preventing conflicts. Ms. Giovanatto negotiated a contract to preserve the historic Sebastiani Theater, formed a joint powers agreement for the Valley of the Moon Fire Protection District and proposed a sales tax measure to protect continued city services. A dedicated public servant, Ms. Giovanatto strengthened the economic development partnership with the Sonoma Valley Chamber of Commerce, created a grant funding program for non- profits, completed a new mobile home ordinance and raised the funds needed for the proposed community pool. Ms. Giovanatto will be recognized long after her retirement for her foresight in identifying 22 measures for greenhouse gas emissions reduction and establishing the City of Sonoma as the first Evergreen City in Sonoma County. Ms. Giovanatto was a founding board member and past President of the Cloverdale Youth and Family Services Partnership, a member of the Leadership of Sonoma Valley Class of 2008, and a board member of the Sonoma Tourism Improvement District. Mr. Speaker, Ms. Giovanatto has dedicated her career to improving the lives of the people of the City of Sonoma. She is known for her unfailing kindness, loyalty and commitment to high ethical standards. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor her here today and extend our best wishes for an enjoyable retirement.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Linda Seifert upon her retirement from the Solano County Board of Supervisors. Ms. Seifert has represented the Second District on the board since 2008 and served as the Chair of the Board from 2012 through 2014. Ms. Seifert has been a longtime leader in our state's legal community. She earned her bachelor's degree from the California State University, Fullerton and then went on to complete her law degree at the University of the Pacific's McGeorge School of Law. Ms. Seifert led a tremendously successful law career and became the first female partner at the McNamara Law Firm in Walnut Creek, before she went on to serve as General Counsel for the California Dental Association. Since her election as Supervisor in 2008, Ms. Seifert has been a champion for Solano County's citizens and our community's future. She has worked to preserve the agricultural heritage and resources of our community and to create more park space and recreational services. For instance, Ms. Seifert successfully pushed to dedicate open space in Rockville Hills and secured $13 million to permanently protect the land for future generations. Education and responsive social services have also been Ms. Seifert's priorities as supervisor. To protect victims of domestic violence, she secured the site for the Family Justice Center in Fairfield. She believes that investing in members of our community improves both their well-being and our economy. Mr. Speaker, Supervisor Linda Seifert has been a champion of our community for the past eight years. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor her here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I, along with Congressman Mark DeSaulnier, rise today to honor the John Muir Land Trust, which earned Land Trust Accreditation status from the Land Trust Alliance in August 2016. The John Muir Land Trust is one of only 350 land trusts nationwide to receive this prestigious commendation. The John Muir Land Trust began in 1989 as the Martinez Regional Land Trust in Contra Costa County, California. The Trust initially protected 150 acres of land in the Alhambra Valley, but its success soon attracted more supporters. Over the succeeding years, the renamed John Muir Land Trust grew to incorporate 13 properties throughout Contra Costa County and now protects 2,500 acres of multi-use land. To demonstrate its ongoing commitment to future conservation, the John Muir Land Trust applied for formal accreditation from the Land Trust Alliance. For a decade, the Land Trust Alliance has provided accreditation to land trusts that demonstrate success in supporting the public interest and that meet high conservation standards. The John Muir Land Trust's recent accreditation is a testament to its tremendous accomplishments and importance within our Contra Costa community. The Trust's work ensures that people throughout our community have access to trails for walking, hiking and cycling while also preserving agricultural lands. The John Muir Land Trust protects air and water quality and preserves habitats for endangered animal and plant species. Recently, the Trust expanded its community engagement by creating the POINTing to Success program to support STEM education for middle and high school students, enhancing students' education through exposure to natural resources. Mr. Speaker, the John Muir Land Trust conserves vital parts of our community's natural resources and provides residents with magnificent open spaces and an enhanced quality of life. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor the John Muir Land Trust here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise, along with Congressman John Garamendi, today to recognize and honor Jay Speck who is retiring after forty years of service to our community as an educator and administrator with the Solano County Office of Education. Mr. Speck began his career in education as a special education teacher at the elementary and secondary levels and has since worked with Solano County as a program manager, principal, director of special education, and assistant superintendent of human resources. Mr. Speck has served as an outstanding educator and leader in our community and demonstrates a unique and experienced understanding of our community's needs. He was sworn in for his first term as County Superintendent on January 3, 2011 and was re-elected and sworn in for his second term on January 5, 2015. Mr. Speck is known for his fair- mindedness and his strong belief in the potential of each individual student to learn and develop academically. During his career, Mr. Speck pursued training in interest-based problem solving and collective bargaining to enhance his skills as a trusted leader, highly skilled problem-solver, and ardent collaborator. Mr. Speck has a solid educational foundation with a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of California, Davis and holds teaching credentials from both California State University, Los Angeles and California State University, Sacramento. Mr. Speck has represented Solano County public schools as a member of many organizations including the California County Superintendents Educational Services Association, the Association of California School Administrators and the Workforce Investment Board. Mr. Speaker, Superintendent Jay Speck has served our community with admirable leadership and dedication for forty years. It is fitting and proper that we honor him here today and extend our best wishes for an enjoyable retirement.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of this bill. H.R. 34, the 21st Century Cures Act, is the product of extensive bipartisan, bicameral collaboration between stakeholders and policy makers. This bill stands to help us make significant progress when it comes to keeping Americans healthy, and keeping America on the forefront of medical innovation. Included in the bill text are provisions based on legislation I authored, known as the Small Business Healthcare Relief Act. These provisions would allow small businesses with fewer than 50 employees to offer tax preferred Health Reimbursement Arrangements, or HRAs, to their workforce. The HRAs can be used to buy health insurance in the individual market, or pay for qualified health expenses if an individual already has coverage. This targeted bill seeks not to override those long-standing responsibilities between employers and their employees, nor does it seek to override ERISA protections that existed before the Affordable Care Act was enacted, but to provide small employers an option for coverage in a robust individual market. Given that this bill will be passed late in the year, it's my hope that the incoming Administration acts promptly to ensure a smooth transition for employers, employees, and the current exchange infrastructure. Small businesses drive job creation and grow our economy. We should be going out of our way to help them support their employees so that they can focus on what they do best: running their business. I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the American Canyon Family Resource Center which is celebrating its 10th Anniversary of offering support and resources to the families, children, and seniors of our community. The American Canyon Family Resource Center opened in April 2006 with the mission to strengthen our community, embrace diversity, and promote and provide local services. The Center has made childcare, housing, legal aid, tax assistance, education, and immigration resources available to every resident of American Canyon, California. The American Canyon Family Resource Center provides families with tools to help themselves. The Center looks at the strengths of the people they serve and helps them to build upon those strengths to create better and healthier situations for their families. The Center acts as an integrated service system to connect families with nonprofit organizations and government agencies to establish a support system which secures our community's families. In addition to connecting families to outside community resources, the Center hosts workshops and classes with topics on establishing credit, buying a home, and securing employment, giving community members confidence, knowledge, and training to provide for their families. The American Canyon Resource Center's financial coaching service focuses on helping our community members increase income, manage credit, and build assets by providing training and job placement, helping individuals create a budget and manage credit, and introducing them to matched savings accounts and first-time home buyer programs. The Center helps families get back on their feet and take control of their own futures. Mr. Speaker, for a decade this institution has been instrumental in shaping the families in our community and promoting a sense of belonging and safety for children, families, and seniors. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor the American Canyon Family Resource Center here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ed Gilardi upon his retirement after 20 years of dedicated service as a Trustee on the Cotati-Rohnert Park School Board. Mr. Gilardi's work to promote schools' accountability to the public, to recruit top notch educators and to help all students to reach their full potential has improved the quality of education for all students across our community. His leadership on the Cotati-Rohnert Park School Board includes serving four years as President and three as the Clerk. In addition to his local service, Mr. Gilardi has contributed to education throughout our state by serving in leadership and advocacy positions on the California School Boards Association. Mr. Gilardi has also advocated and lobbied effectively in Sacramento and Washington D.C. on behalf of Sonoma County and California students for increased funding, standards and education reforms. Through his decades of work in education and public service, Mr. Gilardi has earned the respect of students, teachers, and trustees throughout the State of California. Mr. Gilardi has also devoted his time to working with young people in our community by coaching youth sports teams and mentoring 4-H members. He also served as Chair of the Cotati Kid's Day Parade & Festival from 2010 to 2015, on the committee to recognize the 100-Year Anniversary of the first school in Cotati, as well as Chair and Vice President on the Education Foundation of Cotati-Rohnert Park Executive Board. In recognition of his service, Mr. Gilardi was named Cotati Citizen of the Year in 2000 and received the Education and Community Volunteer of the Year Awards from Sonoma County Youth and Adult Development in 2011. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Ed Gilardi has tirelessly served our community and our state with honor and integrity, and he is an excellent role model of citizenship and dedicated public service. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor him here today and extend our best wishes for an enjoyable retirement.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Wine Spectator, which this year celebrates its 40th anniversary and marks four decades of success and dedication to excellence. Wine Spectator was first published by Bob Morissey in 1976 as a tabloid newspaper to educate and entertain wine consumers. Marvin R. Shanken, a publisher and wine aficionado, saw great potential in the publication and, at Morrisey's request, acquired it in 1979. Mr. Shanken and Executive Editor Thomas Matthews have since transformed Wine Spectator into an institution that informs and connects our international wine community. Wine Spectator editors provide authoritative buying advice, reviewing nearly 20,000 wines each year in independent blind tastings. The magazine puts wine in context, profiling vintners and regions, analyzing vintages and market trends as well as offering travel and dining guides. Wine Spectator has received critical acclaim for its excellent work informing wine consumers. It has been named a finalist in the National Magazine Awards Special Interest category and a top 5 best consumer magazines. Today, Wine Spectator is the most widely read wine publication in the world with a circulation of 400,000 and a global readership of 3.5 million people. Since 1981, Wine Spectator has also hosted the Wine Experience, a weekend of tastings and seminars which concludes with a Grand Award Banquet honoring top restaurants in 50 states and 70 countries on their excellent wine lists. The event funds the Wine Spectator Scholarship Foundation, which has raised more than $20 million to support organizations that invest in the future of our wine community including the University of California at Davis, Sonoma State University, the Culinary Institute of America, and the Chaplin School of Hospitality and tourism Management at Florida International University. Since 1982, Wine Spectator has also honored 34 individuals with its Distinguished Service Award for their contributions to our wine community. Mr. Speaker, this American institution has been a trusted source for wine consumers for 40 years by maintaining its commitment to integrity and expertise. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor Wine Spectator and its visionary leader, Marvin R. Shanken, here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor John and Terri Balletto, who were honored by the Santa Rosa Junior College Foundation Ag Trust in Santa Rosa, California on November 5th for their decades of service to our winegrowing and farming community. John and Terri have dedicated their lives to our agricultural community in Sonoma County and have been strong supporters of Santa Rosa Junior College. John stepped in as the College Ag Trust chair following Warren Dutton's passing in 2001. He then helped raise over $1 million to build the Dutton Pavilion in honor of Warren's immense contributions to the College and our community. Terri has also made significant contributions to Santa Rosa Junior College, offering her support and running Public Relations for many successful Ag Trust events. In addition to their work with the college, the Balletto family has been active in our agricultural community. John served two terms as the Sonoma County Winegrape Commission Chair, and he will be joining the California Association of Winegrape Growers Board in 2017. Terri and John's family vineyard, which they run with their two daughters, produces winegrapes on over 600 acres. Their leadership in the agricultural community has been recognized numerous times, winning them a variety of honors ranging from Sonoma County Winegrape Commission's Excellence in Viticulture to Sonoma County Farm Bureau's Farm Family of the Year. Amid their many important responsibilities, Terri and John still find the time to give back to our community. Terri is the Director, Secretary, and Executive Board member for the 4-H Foundation of Sonoma County, and she serves on the Sonoma County Fair Foundation committee. Additionally, John and Terri have both served as directors and presidents of the Sonoma County Harvest Fair. Mr. Speaker, John and Terri Balletto have enriched Sonoma County through their unmatched commitment to serving Santa Rosa Junior College and our agricultural community's needs. 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 recognize and honor one of Vallejo's greatest champions, Rich Curtola, upon his retirement from the Vallejo Chamber of Commerce. A Vallejo native, Mr. Curtola has been a member of the Vallejo Chamber of Commerce since 1975 and is retiring after six years with the Chamber's leadership, including four as President and CEO. Rich has been instrumental in our community's economic recovery following the Great Recession of 2008 and has worked diligently to grow the Chamber's presence in our community. During his tenure as President and CEO, Rich has improved the Chamber's community relations, increased membership and secured a permanent home for the Chamber. He also led the Chamber as it took on important community projects such as hosting the annual 4th of July parade. Throughout his lifetime of service to our city, Mr. Curtola has drawn on his unwavering optimism in Vallejo's future to make our community a better place to live, work, start a business and raise a family. Mr. Curtola's legacy is one of unrivaled devotion and knowledge of the city we all love, so much so that the name Curtola has become synonymous with Vallejo. Mr. Speaker, Rich Curtola has dedicated his time and expertise to serving our community and ensuring Vallejo's economic success. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor him here today and extend our best wishes for an enjoyable retirement.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Lake County Winegrape Commission as it celebrates 25 years representing winegrape growers in Lake County, California. The Lake County Winegrape Commission was established in 1991 as a state agency to work on behalf of winegrape growers in the areas of marketing, research and education. The Commission is steadfastly dedicated to quality winegrape growing and today represents approximately 180 winegrape growers. Located in Kelseyville, California the Lake County Winegrape Commission has been at the forefront of environmental sustainability in the wine community. The Commission fosters sustainable winegrowing practices through its many professional development programs. The Master Vigneron Academy provides a course in winegrowing taught in Spanish, and the commission's Sustainable Winegrowing Program certifies vineyard owners who demonstrate adherence to environmentally sound, socially equitable and economically viable principles. In addition to its service to winegrape growers, the Lake County Winegrape Commission is dedicated to serving the wider community as well. In the wake of the devastating Valley Fire, the Commission collaborated with other community partners to establish Lake County Rising, which has raised over $1 million to support long-term recovery and rebuilding efforts. These funds are being used to meet a wide range of community needs, including providing food, furnishings, supplies, and equipment for those who lost homes in the fire. Mr. Speaker, the Lake County Winegrape Commission has been instrumental in developing Lake County's reputation for producing high- quality winegrapes for the past 25 years and has been an invaluable community partner in times of need. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor the Lake County Winegrape Commission here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Martinez Historical Society, which is celebrating the 40th anniversary and the reopening of the Martinez Museum. The Martinez Historical Society was established in 1973 with the ambitious goal of preserving a historical cottage dating to the 1890's so that future generations could appreciate our community's heritage. That cottage became the Martinez Museum in 1976, and it now serves as a cornerstone for community history and engagement. The museum has exhibits that encourage visitors to learn about the rich history of Martinez and offers tours to students and groups to encourage their curiosity and desire to learn about our diverse and cultured community. In addition to operating the Martinez Museum, the Martinez Historical Society provides services to our community such as maintaining the Local History Library and the Archive of Martinez. These services are made even more notable when considering the organization operates with an all-volunteer staff. Furthermore, the Historical Society serves as a champion for education by offering school tours to engage young learners, providing curriculum materials to various Martinez schools, and sponsoring state-wide conferences and workshops related to history. With 200 volunteers and an additional 300 members, it is no surprise that the Martinez Historical Society is a cornerstone in our community. Mr. Speaker, the Martinez Historical Society is of tremendous value to our community, and its success has brought awareness to our community's vibrant history through the work of the Martinez Museum and its dedication to education. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor the Martinez Historical Society here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Levi Leipheimer for his work to create the GranFondo cycling event, taking place this year on October 1, 2016, which has enjoyed great success in the cycling community and has raised funds to support many local charitable organizations in our community. Mr. Leipheimer led an impressive cycling career from 1997 until his retirement in May 2013. His accomplishments include three Amgen Tour of California victories from 2007 to 2009 and a bronze medal at the Beijing 2008 Summer Olympics in the road time trial. Mr. Leipheimer later finished as the Tour de France Stage 4 winner in 2009 and won the Tour de Suisse in 2011. Mr. Leipheimer began ``Levi's GranFondo'' in 2009 to welcome cyclists of all ability levels from around the world to our community and to raise funds for important local causes. The GranFondo has achieved incredible success under Mr. Leipheimer's leadership, raising nearly $2 million for philanthropic causes over the past eight years. Furthermore, publications including Red Kite Prayer, Road Bike Action and Outside Online have recognized the GranFondo as one of the best organized cycling events in the world. The GranFondo has raised nearly $2 million for the King Ridge Foundation which supports numerous programs that address the needs of at-risk youth in our community. For example, the foundation provides funding to the Forget Me Not Farm and the B-RAD Foundation which teach children and teens team-building and leadership skills through farming and outdoor adventures. The Social Advocates for Youth program, also supported by the foundation, provides housing, counseling and job training to young adults at risk for homelessness. The King Ridge Foundation also creates opportunities for our young people to become involved in cycling through its 50 Bikes for 50 Kids program, which supplies bikes, helmets and locks to 50 underserved youth in our community each year. The GranFondo has also helped our community in times of need, raising over $60,000 for the Valley Fire relief efforts in Lake County. Mr. Speaker, Levi Leipheimer has created an impressive event that provides resources for young people in need. He is a true friend of our community and a good friend of mine. It is therefore, fitting and proper that we honor him here today and recognize the tremendous value of his GranFondo event for our local community.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, along with Representative Huffman, to honor Charles C. Fielder, the Director of Caltrans District 1, upon his retirement on September 29, 2016 from an impressive career that spanned over 28 years as a civil engineer in state and federal transportation planning. A California native, Mr. Fielder completed his B.S. in Civil Engineering at the University of California, Davis and his Master in Business Administration at Humboldt State University. He moved to Humboldt County in 1988 and has been an active member of his community ever since. Mr. Fielder began his career with Caltrans as a Junior Civil Engineer and rapidly earned promotions in the agency. He served as a Transportation Engineer, Senior Transportation Engineer and Supervising Transportation Engineer over the next three years before earning a promotion to Deputy District Director for Program and Project Management. He was appointed District 1 Director in 2003 and has since been responsible for transportation policy and projects across northern California. Mr. Fielder has also served in Sacramento as an Interim Deputy Director for Maintenance and Operations, where he was responsible for over 50,000 lane miles throughout California. Throughout his career, Mr. Fielder has focused on collaborative approaches to transportation operations. He has served our community well by receiving and implementing suggestions from the public. In addition to his work with Caltrans, he is a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers and he serves as a committee member on the Transportation Research Board which addresses transportation issues on a national level. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Fielder has dedicated his career to making the process of delivering a safe, sustainable, integrated and efficient transportation system as transparent as possible. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor him here today and extend our best wishes for an enjoyable retirement.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Dr. Robert Smiley, who for the last 25 years has conducted a Wine Industry Financial Survey and presented his findings at the Wine Industry Financial Symposium. Dr. Smiley began his academic career at the University of California, Los Angeles where he earned his Bachelor of Science in 1966 and his Master of Science in 1969. He went on to Stanford University to complete his Doctor of Philosophy in Economics in 1973, and then joined Cornell University's Johnson Graduate School of Management as a Professor of Economics and Policy. Dr. Smiley returned to California to become Dean of the Graduate School of Management at the University of California, Davis in 1989. After serving for 20 years, he became the Director of the Wine Industry Program and Dean and Professor of Management Emeritus. In addition to teaching, Dr. Smiley has contributed to the economics field with research covering market competition, industry regulation and organization, and the wine industry. Dr. Smiley enthusiastically volunteered to present research and strategic analysis at the annual Wine Industry Financial Symposium in 1992. For the past 25 years, he has conducted a survey of wine community leaders to assess the industry financial and economic status, and his speeches have become a cornerstone of the Symposium. Dr. Smiley has become a true ``guru'' on wine economics and generously shares his knowledge and enthusiasm for our wine community's future. Mr. Speaker, Dr. Smiley has dedicated his time and expertise to improving our wine community's potential through research and education for 25 years. 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 Art Ibleto's lifetime of achievements and generous service to our community upon his 90th birthday. Mr. Ibleto was born in the town of Sesta Godano in Northern Italy on October 2, 1926. As a young man, he fought with resistance groups against Fascism and Nazi Germany. After valiantly serving his home country, Mr. Ibleto immigrated to the United States and decided to settle in Sonoma County in 1949 calling it ``one of the most beautiful places on earth.'' He began working in Sonoma's fields as a vegetable picker, mechanic and truck driver, and soon fell in love with Vicki Ghiradelli whom he married in 1951. The couple soon began to live their own American Dream and bought their first home together in 1961. They developed their own farm soon thereafter to raise hogs, cattle, and potatoes. They later added a Christmas tree farm, a vineyard and real estate on their property. Mr. Ibleto founded the Spaghetti Palace at the Sonoma County Fair as a United Lodges, Sons of Italy project in 1974. What began as a project soon became an institutional landmark. The success of his Spaghetti Palace inspired Mr. Ibleto to pursue a career of supplying locals with his own line of Italian cuisine and catering inspired by traditional Italian methods. Today, Art's booming business is well known throughout California and local residents affectionately refer to him as the ``Pasta King.'' Art is a cook, grape grower, winemaker and a constant source of pride for our community in Sonoma County. In the last few years, Mr. Ibleto's charity pasta feeds have raised over $500,000 to support a wide range of causes from local animal shelters to survivors of a terrible Highway 101 accident. Mr. Speaker, Art Ibleto has not only led a successful career in agriculture, but he has become a culinary and community leader of legendary proportions. He is a true friend of our community and a good friend of mine. Mr. Ibleto's work and philanthropy have left an indelible mark on Sonoma County and California, and it is therefore fitting and proper that we honor him here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, on July 14, Republican leaders recessed the House for 7 weeks without taking a single vote on legislation to help keep Americans safe from gun violence. Ignoring an issue that you don't want to deal with doesn't make it go away. House Republicans desperately need to learn that lesson. When Republican leaders in the House refuse to deal with gun violence, the American people pay the price. During the 7 weeks that the House was in recess, 2,015 people were killed by someone using a gun. Thousands of families across our country have spent the last 7 weeks grieving. While Republicans are putting their fingers in their ears and pretending that our country isn't in the grips of a gun violence epidemic, innocent people continue to die. What makes this inaction even harder to accept is the fact that, for over 3\1/2\ years, I have had bipartisan, pro-Second Amendment legislation that would help make these tragedies less common. My bill would close a dangerous loophole in our background check system that allows criminals, domestic abusers, and the dangerously mentally ill to bypass a background check in 34 States when purchasing guns online, at a gun show, or through classified ads. Background checks are our first line of defense when it comes to making sure that dangerous people don't purchase guns. We know that, when used, they work. Every day, background checks stop more than 170 felons, some 50 domestic abusers, and nearly 20 fugitives from buying a gun. But, sadly, this gaping hole allows those same felons, domestic abusers, and fugitives to easily bypass a background check when buying firearms. H.R. 1217 has 187 bipartisan coauthors and 90 percent of the American people support strengthening and expanding our background check system. Mr. Speaker, let us have a vote on this bill. Gun violence shouldn't be a partisan issue. When deranged gunmen open fire in a nightclub, movie theater, or school, they don't care if you are a Democrat or Republican. Together, we can build a country in which all Americans feel safe being who they are, having fun in a nightclub, going to school, seeing a movie, going to Bible study, an office party, or simply walking down the streets of their own neighborhood. Mr. Speaker, let us do the work the American people sent us here to do. Let us vote on the legislation they want to see enacted. Let us vote to keep our fellow Americans safe. Each day the Republican majority drags its feet and refuses to give us a vote on bipartisan, pro-Second Amendment bills to help keep guns out of dangerous hands, more innocent lives are lost. Give us a vote. And give us a vote now, before you recess for another break.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to bring up H.R. 1217, the bipartisan expanded background checks legislation, to honor the memory of John Comer, a victim of gun violence who never received a moment of silence on the House floor.

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to bring up H.R. 1217, the bipartisan expanded background checks legislation, to honor the memory of Kenneth D. Whitaker, a victim of gun violence who never received a moment of silence on the House floor.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Justin-Siena High School upon the 50th Anniversary of the school's founding. While we honor five decades of academic achievement, we also celebrate the future of Justin-Siena High School in keeping with the school's motto Sempre Avanti, or ``Always Forward.'' The De La Salle Christian Brothers and the Dominican Sisters of San Rafael founded Justin-Siena in 1966 to educate and inspire young people to live the Lasallian values of scholarship, bravery, and faith. The school connects its students and our community to the Lasallian network of schools, which spans 82 countries around the world. Located in Napa, California the school serves students from across the North Bay and from 15 countries around the world and maintains a commitment to academic excellence. Its 12:1 student-instructor ratio fosters close academic relationships, and an impressive 99 percent of the students receive college admission offers. In the tradition of Christian generosity espoused by its founders, Justin-Siena supports more than one-third of its students with tuition assistance to help families of all economic backgrounds. The school's commitment to community service has offered students opportunities for service-based learning across our country from San Francisco, to Montana to Arizona. Students also participate in a variety of projects in our community. They work to address the needs of our local migrant farmworkers, contribute to environmental projects that restore ecosystems and help promote natural habitat growth. Mr. Speaker, Justin-Siena has been a leading institution in our Napa Valley for five decades and has provided generations of students with a world-class education. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor the school here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor George Altamura, who is being recognized for his support of young Latino leaders at the 33rd Annual Napa County Hispanic Network Scholarship Gala. Mr. Altamura was born in Buffalo, New York, and fulfilled a long-held dream when he moved to California in 1949 following his high school graduation. After settling in Napa County, Mr. Altamura worked as a carpenter's apprentice before he eventually earned his contractor's license. Only three years after moving to Napa County, Mr. Altamura started his own company, Altamura Enterprises and embarked on a successful career purchasing and developing property. Just as impressive as Mr. Altamura's professional successes is his dedication to giving back to our community. Together with his wife Jackie, Mr. Altamura has been an incredible supporter of our Latino community and has sponsored multiple scholarships through the Hispanic Network each year for more than two decades. Many of the young leaders the Altamuras' have supported now live and work throughout Napa County, ensuring that the Altamuras' legacy of civic engagement and community service will be carried on for generations to come. Mr. Altamura is the founder and president of Hands Across the Valley and the Napa Sheriff's Youth Activity, both of which aim to help those in need, and young people in particular, throughout our community. Furthermore, Mr. Altamura has supported the important work of organizations like Queen of the Valley Hospital, Uptown Theater Napa, and Meals on Wheels. Mr. Speaker, George Altamura has not only achieved his own American dream, but he has worked hard to ensure that young people throughout our community will have a fair shot at achieving theirs, too. 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 Jennifer Ellison, who is being honored today by the Napa County Office of Education as a 2017 Napa County Teacher of the Year. Ms. Ellison, a Napa native, completed both her Bachelor of Arts and teaching credential at the California State University, Chico. Ms. Ellison then moved back to Napa, where she has taught students from the 2nd grade through the 9th grade at Vacaville Christian High School, Fairfield Christian School, and Phillips Elementary School over the past twenty years. Ms. Ellison brings an enthusiasm for teaching and a dedication to her students to her classroom. Ms. Ellison often works with dual language learners and students from low income families, but she takes the time to ensure each student has access to the resources and instruction they need to succeed. In her classroom, students have the ability to explore, learn, and grow. Ms. Ellison works hard to ensure that each student is empowered to achieve their dreams. Outside the classroom, Ms. Ellison coaches Junior Varsity Volleyball and high school Speech and Debate. Even with her busy teaching schedule, Ms. Ellison has found time to serve as a Sunday school teacher and youth group leader. Mr. Speaker, Jennifer Ellison has dedicated her time and talents to inspiring students in our community to learn and strive for excellence for 20 years. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor her here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Martinez Beaver Festival, which for the past nine years has commemorated the broad public support and civic action that saved our local beaver population from trapping. This annual festival not only emphasizes the importance that beavers hold for our creeks and wildlife, but also is a celebration of our community and local government working together for this worthy cause. The Martinez Beaver Festival is hosted by Worth a Dam, a local nonprofit dedicated to maintaining the beaver population in Martinez. Their many contributions to our community involve education, advocacy, and local events. The organization also aims to teach other cities about the importance of coexisting with this important species. Furthermore, Worth a Dam has increased public awareness on the importance of beavers to the ecological health of urban streams by providing exploration tours, promoting ecotourism in Martinez through various events, and awarding Beaver Scholarships to other cities learning to deal with their own beaver-related issues. During its history, Worth a Dam and the Martinez Beaver Festival have provided exhibits and presentations to wildlife groups across our state, as well as in Utah and Oregon. Thanks to Worth a Dam's website dedicated to beaver information, people across our nation have access to data and resources needed to solve wild beaver issues and to develop a stronger appreciation for the importance of beavers to their local ecosystems. Worth a Dam has recently worked internationally with beaver advocates in Canada and Scotland to educate stakeholders and their communities to help resolve various beaver-related issues. Mr. Speaker, the Martinez Beaver Festival is of tremendous value to our community, and its success has brought awareness to our community's wildlife conservation efforts. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor the Martinez Beaver Festival here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Suzanne Morgan, who is being honored today by the Napa County Office of Education as a 2017 Napa County Teacher of the Year. A native of Napa, California, Ms. Morgan always knew she wanted to be a teacher. She completed her Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies at Chico State University before beginning her career in teaching, throughout which she has always looked for opportunities to work with children living in poverty. Ms. Morgan has spent three decades teaching elementary school students, and currently teaches 4th grade at Shearer Elementary School in Napa, California. Her teaching style encourages students to build relationships and creates a sense of community in her classroom. Ms. Morgan spends time with each of her students, listening to their concerns and making sure they know that someone believes in their potential. In addition to her work in the classroom, Ms. Morgan is the President of Days for Girls, a relief organization that supports education for girls in developing countries. She brings her passion for supporting learning abroad to her own classroom by organizing fundraisers with her students for school uniforms for students abroad. Mr. Speaker, Ms. Morgan has dedicated three decades of her teaching career to educating and empowering young children, and her kindness and enthusiasm have had a tremendous impact in many students' lives. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor her here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dana Simon, who is being honored today by the Napa County Office of Education as a 2017 Napa County Teacher of the Year. Ms. Simon grew up in Lafayette, California and completed her Bachelor of Arts in English at the University of Southern California. After completing her English teaching credential at San Francisco State University, Ms. Simon began teaching at Pleasanton Middle School in 1996, and has worked with middle schoolers ever since. She completed her Master of Science in Education focusing on Curriculum and Instruction in 2007, and has been working with students at Robert Louis Stevenson Middle School in St. Helena, California since 2010. Ms. Simon makes her classroom a creative and fun environment to inspire students to become engaged learners. She sets high expectations for her students and provides them with the support and encouragement they need to achieve great results. Outside the classroom, Ms. Simon is a member of the school's Technology Committee and the Advancement Via Individual Determination Site Team, ensuring all students have access to the resources they need to succeed. Even with her busy teaching schedule, Ms. Simon has found time to engage with important civic causes. She serves as a member of the Napa Family Law Justice Center's Strategic Planning Committee, and she previously sat on the board of Congregation Beth Shalom. Mr. Speaker, Dana Simon has dedicated two decades of her career to inspiring students in our community to learn and strive for excellence, both through her engaging work in the classroom and as a community leader. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor her here today.