Mike Thompson

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I, along with Representative Garamendi and Representative Huffman rise to recognize and honor District Manager Este Stifel for her great contribution to the designation of the Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument by President Barack Obama on July 10, 2015. This outstanding accomplishment was made possible by the tireless work of countless advocates. Their commitment to engaging friends, colleagues, local residents, businesses, stakeholders across the country, and policymakers in a coordinated effort to achieve permanent protection was critical to the establishment of the Monument. Now, the Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument may be counted among the hundreds of pristine parks across the country that represent America's most treasured public resources. The region's unique geological formations will play host for the world's scientists for years to come. Centuries-old archeological sites will draw curious historians and researchers as they piece together the stories of generations past. And avid bikers, hikers, campers, horsemen, and sportsmen will be able to enjoy this landmark that is now forever open and accessible to outdoor enthusiasts from Northern California and beyond. The Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument serves as proof of the value of the Antiquities Act and the power of the Executive to protect these lands in the face of inaction by Congress. After extensive input from interested parties and substantial evidence of this region's value, the Obama Administration honored the support of stakeholders, and the gravity of conservation. The legacy of public lands is one of the most important we can leave for future generations. The Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument is a critical piece of a preservation system that stretches from the Hawaiian Islands to the Maine Coast. It has been a privilege working with District Manager Stifel to further our mutual goal of preserving our nation's great open spaces, and we look forward to collaborating in the future.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I, along with Representative Garamendi and Representative Huffman, rise to recognize and honor Senator Lois Wolk for her great contribution to the designation of the Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument by President Barack Obama on July 10, 2015. This outstanding accomplishment was made possible by the tireless work of countless advocates like Senator Wolk. Their commitment to engaging friends, colleagues, local residents, businesses, stakeholders across the country, and policymakers in a coordinated effort to achieve permanent protection was critical to the establishment of the Monument. Now, the Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument may be counted among the hundreds of pristine parks across the country that represent America's most treasured public resources. The region's unique geological formations will play host for the world's scientists for years to come. Centuries-old archeological sites will draw curious historians and researchers as they piece together the stories of generations past. And avid bikers, hikers, campers, horsemen, and sportsmen will be able to enjoy this landmark that is now forever open and accessible to outdoor enthusiasts from Northern California and beyond. The Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument serves as proof of the value of the Antiquities Act and the power of the Executive to protect these lands in the face of inaction by Congress. After extensive input from interested parties and substantial evidence of this region's value, the Obama Administration honored the support of stakeholders, and the gravity of conservation. The legacy of public lands is one of the most important we can leave for future generations. The Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument is a critical piece of a preservation system that stretches from the Hawaiian Islands to the Maine Coast. It has been a privilege working with Senator Wolk to further our mutual goal of preserving our nation's great open spaces, and we look forward to collaborating in the future.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I, along with Representative Garamendi and Representative Huffman, rise to recognize and honor Chief Tom Tidwell for his great contribution to the designation of the Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument by President Barack Obama on July 10, 2015. This outstanding accomplishment was made possible by the tireless work of countless advocates. Their commitment to engaging friends, colleagues, local residents, businesses, stakeholders across the country, and policymakers in a coordinated effort to achieve permanent protection was critical to the establishment of the Monument. Now, the Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument may be counted among the hundreds pristine parks across the country that represent America's most treasured public resources. The region's unique geological formations will play host for the world's scientists for years to come. Centuries-old archeological sites will draw curious historians and researchers as they piece together the stories of generations past. And avid bikers, hikers, campers, horsemen, and sportsmen will be able to enjoy this landmark that is now forever open and accessible to outdoor enthusiasts from Northern California and beyond. The Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument serves as proof of the value of the Antiquities Act and the power of the Executive to protect these lands in the face of inaction by Congress. After extensive input from interested parties and substantial evidence of this region's value, the Obama Administration honored the support of stakeholders, and the gravity of conservation. The legacy of public lands is one of the most important we can leave for future generations. The Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument is a critical piece of a preservation system that stretches from the Hawaiian Islands to the Maine Coast. It has been a privilege working with Chief Tidwell to further our mutual goal of preserving our nation's great open spaces, and we look forward to collaborating in the future.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I, along with Representative Garamendi and Representative Huffman, rise to recognize and honor Forester Randy Moore for his great contribution to the designation of the Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument by President Barack Obama on July 10, 2015. This outstanding accomplishment was made possible by the tireless work of countless advocates. Their commitment to engaging friends, colleagues, local residents, businesses, stakeholders across the country, and policymakers in a coordinated effort to achieve permanent protection was critical to the establishment of the Monument. Now, the Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument may be counted among the hundreds pristine parks across the country that represent America's most treasured public resources. The region's unique geological formations will play host for the world's scientists for years to come. Centuries-old archeological sites will draw curious historians and researchers as they piece together the stories of generations past. And avid bikers, hikers, campers, horsemen, and sportsmen will be able to enjoy this landmark that is now forever open and accessible to outdoor enthusiasts from Northern California and beyond. The Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument serves as proof of the value of the Antiquities Act and the power of the Executive to protect these lands in the face of inaction by Congress. After extensive input from interested parties and substantial evidence of this region's value, the Obama Administration honored the support of stakeholders, and the gravity of conservation. The legacy of public lands is one of the most important we can leave for future generations. The Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument is a critical piece of a preservation system that stretches from the Hawaiian Islands to the Maine Coast. It has been a privilege working with Forester Moore to further our mutual goal of preserving our nation's great open spaces, and we look forward to collaborating in the future.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I, along with Representative Garamendi and Representative Huffman, rise to recognize and honor Secretary John Laird for his great contribution to the designation of the Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument by President Barack Obama on July 10, 2015. This outstanding accomplishment was made possible by the tireless work of countless advocates like Secretary Laird. Their commitment to engaging friends, colleagues, local residents, businesses, stakeholders across the country, and policymakers in a coordinated effort to achieve permanent protection was critical to the establishment of the Monument. Now, the Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument may be counted among the hundreds of pristine parks across the country that represent America's most treasured public resources. The region's unique geological formations will play host for the world's scientists for years to come. Centuries-old archeological sites will draw curious historians and researchers as they piece together the stories of generations past. And avid bikers, hikers, campers, horsemen, and sportsmen will be able to enjoy this landmark that is now forever open and accessible to outdoor enthusiasts from Northern California and beyond. The Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument serves as proof of the value of the Antiquities Act and the power of the Executive to protect these lands in the face of inaction by Congress. After extensive input from interested parties and substantial evidence of this region's value, the Obama Administration honored the support of stakeholders, and the gravity of conservation. The legacy of public lands is one of the most important we can leave for future generations. The Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument is a critical piece of a preservation system that stretches from the Hawaiian Islands to the Maine Coast. It has been a privilege working with Secretary Laird to further our mutual goal of preserving our nation's great open spaces, and we look forward to collaborating in the future.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I, along with Representative Garamendi and Representative Huffman, rise to recognize and honor Directory Jerry Perez for his great contribution to the designation of the Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument by President Barack Obama on July 10, 2015. This outstanding accomplishment was made possible by the tireless work of countless advocates. Their commitment to engaging friends, colleagues, local residents, businesses, stakeholders across the country, and policymakers in a coordinated effort to achieve permanent protection was critical to the establishment of the Monument. Now, the Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument may be counted among the hundreds of pristine parks across the country that represent America's most treasured public resources. The region's unique geological formations will play host for the world's scientists for years to come. Centuries-old archeological sites will draw curious historians and researchers as they piece together the stories of generations past. And avid bikers, hikers, campers, horsemen, and sportsmen will be able to enjoy this landmark that is now forever open and accessible to outdoor enthusiasts from Northern California and beyond. The Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument serves as proof of the value of the Antiquities Act and the power of the Executive to protect these lands in the face of inaction by Congress. After extensive input from interested parties and substantial evidence of this region's value, the Obama Administration honored the support of stakeholders, and the gravity of conservation. The legacy of public lands is one of the most important we can leave for future generations. The Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument is a critical piece of a preservation system that stretches from the Hawaiian Islands to the Maine Coast. It has been a privilege working with Director Perez to further our mutual goal of preserving our nation's great open spaces, and we look forward to collaborating in the future.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I, along with Representative Garamendi and Representative Huffman, rise to recognize and honor Director Tom Bohigian for his great contribution to the designation of the Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument by President Barack Obama on July 10, 2015. This outstanding accomplishment was made possible by the tireless work of countless advocates like Mr. Bohigian. Their commitment to engaging friends, colleagues, local residents, businesses, stakeholders across the country, and policymakers in a coordinated effort to achieve permanent protection was critical to the establishment of the Monument. Now, the Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument may be counted among the hundreds pristine parks across the country that represent America's most treasured public resources. The region's unique geological formations will play host for the world's scientists for years to come. Centuries-old archeological sites will draw curious historians and researchers as they piece together the stories of generations past. And avid bikers, hikers, campers, horsemen, and sportsmen will be able to enjoy this landmark that is now forever open and accessible to outdoor enthusiasts from Northern California and beyond. The Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument serves as proof of the value of the Antiquities Act and the power of the Executive to protect these lands in the face of inaction by Congress. After extensive input from interested parties and substantial evidence of this region's value, the Obama Administration honored the support of stakeholders, and the gravity of conservation. The legacy of public lands is one of the most important we can leave for future generations. The Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument is a critical piece of a preservation system that stretches from the Hawaiian Islands to the Maine Coast. It has been a privilege working with Mr. Bohigian to further our mutual goal of preserving our nation's great open spaces, and we look forward to collaborating in the future.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I, along with Representative Garamendi and Representative Huffman, rise to recognize and honor Assistant Director Abbie Jossie for her great contribution to the designation of the Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument by President Barack Obama on July 10, 2015. This outstanding accomplishment was made possible by the tireless work of countless advocates. Their commitment to engaging friends, colleagues, local residents, businesses, stakeholders across the country, and policymakers in a coordinated effort to achieve permanent protection was critical to the establishment of the Monument. Now, the Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument may be counted among the hundreds of pristine parks across the country that represent America's most treasured public resources. The region's unique geological formations will play host for the world's scientists for years to come. Centuries-old archeological sites will draw curious historians and researchers as they piece together the stories of generations past. And avid bikers, hikers, campers, horsemen, and sportsmen will be able to enjoy this landmark that is now forever open and accessible to outdoor enthusiasts from Northern California and beyond. The Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument serves as proof of the value of the Antiquities Act and the power of the Executive to protect these lands in the face of inaction by Congress. After extensive input from interested parties and substantial evidence of this region's value, the Obama Administration honored the support of stakeholders, and the gravity of conservation. The legacy of public lands is one of the most important we can leave for future generations. The Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument is a critical piece of a preservation system that stretches from the Hawaiian Islands to the Maine Coast. It has been a privilege working with Assistant Director Jossie to further our mutual goal of preserving our nation's great open spaces, and we look forward to collaborating in the future.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Linda Parks, whom I have named Woman of the Year in Napa County, California. For more than four decades, Ms. Parks has worked to build Napa-based Lixit Animal Care Products into the major manufacturer and employer it is today. Currently serving as President and CEO of the company, Ms. Parks joined Lixit in 1971 as a buyer, three years after the company's founding. At the time, it employed only ten people. In 1994, Ms. Parks and other employees purchased the company using an Employee Stock Ownership Plan, allowing employee stakeholders to participate in business's future and success. Under Ms. Parks's leadership, Lixit maintains international markets in Canada and Mexico, and employs more than 100 people in its downtown Napa, California location. Lixit employs many people with developmental disabilities, helping them participate in the workforce and gain independence through the company's Adults with Disabilities program. Ms. Parks has earned a distinguished reputation in the California business community. In 2015, the North Bay Business Journal named her one of the Women in Business award winners of the year. A graduate of the Building a Minority Business program at the Tuck School of Business, Ms. Parks has led Lixit to become a certified women-owned company. Mr. Speaker, we thank Linda Parks for her dedication to building a successful business and diverse workforce that enlivens the Napa County business community. For this reason, it is fitting and proper that we honor her here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Evelyn Cheatham whom I have named Woman of the Year in Sonoma County, California. Since Ms. Cheatham moved to Sonoma 27 years ago, she has served Sonoma residents in a variety of ways, including opening a culinary training program that focuses on empowering young people to pursue a successful future. After establishing her reputation as a high-profile chef cooking for celebrities, Ms. Cheatham decided to start a new venture that would help the young people of Sonoma County. She started Worth Our Weight (W.O.W.), which provides free training to individuals 16 to 24 years old who have dealt with challenges such as foster care, homelessness, or legal trouble. In addition to enabling young people to pursue a skilled profession in culinary training, Ms. Cheatham offers a social circle to the young people at the restaurant, where they are less likely to be exposed to gangs or violence. Furthermore, she ensures the young people get at least one solid meal a day, a necessity many of her students lack. Her work has not been limited to teaching cooking. Ms. Cheatham serves on the Community and Local Law Enforcement Task Force, where she facilitates communication between law officers and citizens of Sonoma County. Mr. Speaker, Evelyn Cheatham has selflessly invested her time and energy into bettering the futures of many of Sonoma County's most vulnerable young people. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we thank and honor her dedication here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Josephine Orozco, whom I have named Woman of the Year in Contra Costa County, California. During her more than two decades living in Rodeo, California, Ms. Orozco has freely offered her talents to improve her community through numerous community endeavors, all while managing a successful restaurant. A California native and graduate of The University of California at Berkeley, Ms. Orozco and her husband run El Sol Restaurant in Rodeo, California. As a business owner herself, she has worked to revitalize the downtown community and local small businesses. During her tenure as President of the Rodeo Chamber of Commerce, Ms. Orozco drew on her expertise as a planning and landscape designer to launch an improvement project enhancing small business connectivity and providing recreational space. Her community work and events engage many Rodeo residents and offer city residents opportunities both to contribute to worthy causes and connect with their neighbors. Ms. Orozco chairs committees for occasions such as the Community Holiday Tree Lighting, and she plans events such as the Rodeo Crab Feed and Chili Cook-Off and Car Show to raise funds to provide local young people with scholarships. In the past, she has also served on the Rodeo Municipal Advisory Council and the R10 Citizen's Advisory Committee. Mr. Speaker, Josephine Orozco has spent more than two decades generously offering her talent, time, and resources to improve the lives of her neighbors in Rodeo and Contra Costa County. For this reason, it is fitting and proper that we honor her here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Maria Guevara, whom I have named Woman of the Year in Solano County. Ms. Guevara is a tireless advocate for the rights and needs of homeless individuals in Vallejo, California. Ms. Guevara has spent much of her life in California, and attended Solano Community College, Napa Valley College, and St. Mary's College of California. From volunteering with Filipino American Social Services to serving as a board member for Vallejo Community Access Television, Ms. Guevara has dedicated her time to causes close to her heart. She also enjoys volunteering in her faith community as a religious education teacher at St. Basil the Great. In 2010, Ms. Guevara founded Vallejo Together, a group of dedicated volunteers, to address the unmet needs of homeless people in her community. Vallejo Together provides many services, including serving meals, connecting individuals to resources, and sponsoring events such as a ``Youth and Parent Expo'' and ``Unity Day'' to celebrate Vallejo's diversity and families. The volunteer group aims to empower those in need to become self-sufficient so they can enjoy an independent and fulfilling life. Mr. Speaker, Maria Guevara selflessly spends her time and energy caring for others in our community. Everyone Ms. Guevara works with enjoys her warm and compassionate nature, and Vallejo continues to benefit from her inspiring dedication to service. For this reason, it is fitting and proper that we honor her here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Monica Rosenthal, whom I have named Woman of the Year in Lake County, California. In her two decades living in Middletown, California, Ms. Rosenthal has dedicated countless hours to community service, even while running a successful business. Born in Hawaii and raised in towns across the country, Ms. Rosenthal settled in California after meeting her husband Dave. Together, Monica and Dave manage their 40 acre vineyard in Lake County. Beyond her business experience, Ms. Rosenthal invests her time and resources to improve the lives of her neighbors. No stranger to organizing her neighbors in support of a cause, Ms. Rosenthal has served on two Save the Lake campaigns and assisted her community with recovery efforts after the Valley Fire devastated the southern portion of Lake County. Ms. Rosenthal drew on her experience as a small business owner and a community servant to plan a successful Economic Outlook and Forecast event in December 2015, which brought together government, business, education, and healthcare leaders to stimulate the economic recovery process. Ms. Rosenthal has supported a wide range of both local environmental and social programs. She represented District 1 on the Lake County Planning Commission from 2007 to 2009, and, for the past five years, has represented District 1 on the Lake County Farm Bureau, lending her practical expertise to County leadership. Additionally, she supports foster youth and senior programs such as Redwood Children's Services and the Middletown Senior Center. Mr. Speaker, Monica Rosenthal is a key part of the Lake County community and we thank her for her dedication to community service and her active participation in social programs. For this reason, it is fitting and proper that we honor her here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Kenneth Hofmann, owner of the Rancho Esquon Wildlife Area and wetlands steward par excellence, for his commitment to community development and wildlife preservation. Mr. Hofmann, a lifelong Californian, has spent most of the past three decades working to promote philanthropy, educational and artistic initiatives, and wildlife conservation. In 1990, Mr. Hofmann purchased Rancho Esquon, a sprawling agricultural property in Butte County, and began working to restore its natural habitat. Today, the ranch boasts over 900 acres of wetlands, is home to more than 20,000 trees and 173 species of birds, and serves as a valuable educational resource. Over 4,000 students have taken class field trips to Rancho Esquon, many of whom have returned to visit the site's egg salvage facility. Today, to further expose and educate regarding the importance of our wetlands, Mr. Hofmann is in the process of building the Pacific Flyway Center, a world-class museum and zoo facility in Suisun Marsh. The Center is dedicated to inspiring conservation of the Pacific Flyway, a critical migratory route stretching from Alaska to Patagonia. Every year, at least one billion birds migrate along the Flyway, and its importance to waterfowl populations cannot be overstated. Upon completion, the Center will offer educational opportunities for local students and citizens. Mr. Hofmann's charitable organization, The Hofmann Family Foundation (HFF), has worked for over 20 years to help young people in need. In 1995, a $1 million donation from the HFF created the Concord Community Youth Center, which today provides educational and athletic opportunities for 1,900 underprivileged young people. And in 2014, Mr. Hofmann donated funds to create the De La Salle Academy, a division of De La Salle High School dedicated to providing high-quality education for boys whose financial circumstances would otherwise prevent private schooling. By the end of 2016, the Academy will have 80 students enrolled in the fifth and sixth grades. Mr. Speaker, Kenneth Hofmann has dedicated his time and resources for nearly 40 years to enriching the lives of California's young people and protecting its environment. Mr. Hofmann's efforts have benefitted our community enormously, and it is fitting and proper that we honor him here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Paul Bonderson, President of the Ducks Unlimited (DU) conservation group, for his tireless commitment to educational and conservation initiatives in the State of California. Mr. Bonderson's passion for wildlife and the environment began early in life, accompanying his father and grandfather on early-morning duck hunting trips throughout his childhood. As he put it, ``I have always been an outdoor person. I have a great appreciation for the outdoors and am aware of how much it's been destroyed.'' A lifelong Californian, Mr. Bonderson graduated from Sacramento's Encina Preparatory High School before attending California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo. He began working with Ducks Unlimited in 2000, and became the group's 43rd President in June 2015. From 2001 to 2006, Mr. Bonderson oversaw the acquisition of 2,500 acres of land in Butte County. The land had previously been used for rice production, but Mr. Bonderson has restored the property to its natural habitat. Today, the property--known as Birdhaven Ranch--is home to thousands of ducks, and provides invaluable wetlands educational opportunities for local high school and college students. These conservation and education efforts are especially critical in California, which has lost over 95 percent of its historic wetlands. And as President of DU, he has set forth an admirably ambitious agenda: Mr. Bonderson hopes to raise $2 billion for waterfowl and wildlife conservation as part of the group's ``Rescue Our Wetlands--Banding Together for Waterfowl'' campaign. Mr. Bonderson has also helped lead efforts to restore North America's Boreal Forest. The forest, over one billion acres of pristine wildlife habitat, is home to 14 million ducks during breeding season, and is threatened by expanding energy, mining and agriculture sectors. In partnership with Pew Charitable Trusts, DU has permanently protected millions of acres of forest, aiming to eventually preserve at least 50 percent of all Boreal territory on the continent. Mr. Speaker, Paul Bonderson has worked tirelessly to preserve our nation's natural beauty. His commendable efforts will ensure that our country's pristine lands will be enjoyed by future generations, and it is fitting and proper that we honor him here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of National Women's History Month, the roots of which are in my district. It was in Santa Rosa, California, that the National Women's History Project was founded, and I am proud to continue the legacy of recognizing the many contributions women have made to our country by introducing the National Women's History Month Resolution. The theme of this year's bipartisan Women's History Month is honoring women in public service and government. And this year I am recognizing five extraordinary women in my district: Josephine Orozco, Maria Guevara, Evelyn Cheatham, Linda Parks, and Monica Rosenthal. Honoring women should not be limited to 1 month out of the year. We need to work every day to make sure women have the same opportunities as men have to succeed because when women succeed, America succeeds.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Napa County Library (NCL), which is celebrating its 100th anniversary as a county library system. In 1916, the California State Legislature authorized the creation of free county libraries around the state. As a result, in February of that year, the unincorporated areas of Napa County gained library services when the Napa County Board of Supervisors established the Napa County Free Library. The NCL offers reading programs for all ages, outreach services, literacy initiatives, job-search and small business resources, information services, computer training, Internet access, and other means of community support and enrichment. More generally, the library enables individuals to make informed decisions about their self- governance by promoting unrestricted access to information and by serving as a community center for lifelong learning. In the last fiscal year, over 18,000 people received technology-related help, while 567,192 individuals visited the NCL. And over 4,000 adults, children and teens participated in the NCL's summer reading program. The library's importance extends beyond its bookshelves. Basic literacy and computer-proficiency programs have broad and positive effects on local economies, bolstering the capabilities of local workers and businesses. Furthermore, the NCL's myriad child- and employment-focused initiatives help children and adults find, evaluate and use information they need for their jobs, health, education and success. Mr. Speaker, the NCL is a dynamic civic resource that promotes free and open access to information, while providing valuable materials and services to all members of the community. The Napa County Library continues to benefit its community immensely, and it is fitting and proper that we honor it here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Lieutenant Debbie Peecock, of the Napa Police Department, who is retiring after 30 years of service to her community. Debbie Peecock joined the Napa Police Department on September 9, 1985, and eventually became the first woman in Napa police history to earn her current rank of lieutenant. In this role, Lieutenant Peecock oversees the Special Operations Division of the Napa Police Department. She manages the department's Investigations Bureau, Youth Services Bureau and the Homeless Outreach Program, while also heading Napa's Canine and SWAT Units. Lieutenant Peecock further serves as the liaison between the Napa PD and the Napa Valley Unified School District, the Napa County Office of Education, and Napa County Health and Human Services. It is difficult to overstate the impact Lieutenant Peecock has had on our community. Her consistent leadership and activism have made her a well-known and well-liked figure, one whose advice is often sought out by community members. Her influence extends beyond her work in the Police Department, as Lieutenant Peecock also works with numerous organizations and foundations, including the Continuum of Care, the Napa County Advisory Board on Alcohol and Drug Programs, the Catalyst Coalition and the Napa County DARE and Safe Schools Foundations. She has a long history of social activism, supporting charity and nonprofit programs like Shop With A Cop, Community Action Napa Valley, and the Napa Valley Education Foundation. Lieutenant Peecock has consistently acted with remarkable dedication and character, and residents of Napa and the surrounding areas have benefitted enormously from her efforts. Mr. Speaker, Lieutenant Debbie Peecock has served her community with admirable integrity and commitment for three decades. It is fitting and proper that I honor her here today. I wish Lieutenant Peecock the best in her retirement.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Gloria Flaherty, who is retiring from the Lake Family Resource Center after 19 years of service. Ms. Flaherty's resume of community service is impressive. In addition to being a Founding Director and Executive Director at Lake Family Resource Center, Gloria has held numerous positions and titles within the Lake County community over the past two decades. Among other endeavors, Ms. Flaherty served as President of Kelseyville Sunrise Rotary, Board President of Kelseyville Unified School District, and Commissioner of First 5 Lake County. She has recently served as Chairman of the Lake County Continuum of Care, as a member of the Boards of North Coast Opportunities and Friends of Mendocino College, and as a Board member on the California Partnership to End Domestic Violence. Most recently, Ms. Flaherty has been heavily involved in Lake County fire recovery efforts, working tirelessly to set up a ``warming center'' to provide shelter and respite for those in need. In 2015, Ms. Flaherty received the Lake County Childcare Planning Council's Lifetime Achievement Award. She was also named the 2015 Woman of the Year from the Third Congressional District. Ms. Flaherty has consistently demonstrated kindness, compassion and integrity, and has worked for years as a tireless advocate for children and families. The citizens of Lake County have benefitted enormously from her efforts. Mr. Speaker, Gloria Flaherty has served her community with admirable commitment and resolve. It is fitting and proper that I honor her here today. I wish Gloria Flaherty the best in her retirement.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I stand today in support of many of the provisions that are in this bill. I, too, believe that we need to bring permanency to our tax policy. One of the pieces of this legislation that we are debating today is one that is very near and dear to my heart, something I have worked on since the day I got to Congress, and that is the conservation easement provision, which has helped all of our districts a great deal. That, too, needs to be made permanent. But I stand in opposition to the overall bill. It is not because it is bad policy. We all agree that a lot of the provisions in this bill are good public policy. We should pass them. We should make them permanent. But, sadly, this bill is fiscally reckless. We are going to pass this policy, and we are going to send a nearly $700 billion bill on to the taxpayers of this country. In his comments, my friend, the gentleman from Louisiana, said that, for every piece of legislation in here, they have had hearings, they have had markups, and they have taken these to the floor. He is absolutely correct. We have done everything except make sure this bill is paid for. That is a responsibility that all of us should take seriously. We should not pass tax expenditures without paying for them. I urge a ``no'' vote on the bill.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, due to a funeral I attended in California, I was unable to cast my vote for Roll Call 694. Had I been present I would have voted: YES--H. Res. 536, Supporting freedom of the press in Latin America and the Caribbean and condemning violations of press freedom and violence against journalists, bloggers, and individuals exercising their right to freedom of speech.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise in support of H.R. 3831, the Securing Fairness in Regulatory Timing Act of 2015. Every year, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services publishes its Medicare Advantage call letter and rate notice, which outlines payment rates and changes for the nearly 2,000 plans that serve our most vulnerable population. Nearly 10 years ago, the call letter and rate notice were less than 20 pages long. However, since then, enrollment in Medicare Advantage has nearly tripled, from 5.4 million to 16 million. Medicare Advantage policies have become more complex, and the call letter and rate notice has grown nearly tenfold, sometimes up to over 200 pages long. At the same time, the time between the publishing of these draft notices and the final notices, which is currently 45 days, has remained unchanged. During this 45-day period, in which there are only 15 days to comment on the proposed changes in the program, plans, stockholders, members, and staff, are expected to review 150 pages of regulatory changes and understand the impacts of those proposed policy changes on a program that provides essential medical care to over a third of Medicare beneficiaries. We know from our experience, every February and March, that this does not lend itself to an efficient, effective, nor transparent process. Moreover, it shortchanges CMS of thoughtful, constructive feedback that is necessary to improve a program that our seniors enjoy and rely on. H.R. 3831 is a simple, straightforward bill that will improve the current process by expanding the cycle from 45 to 60 days, and that gives plans, stakeholders, Members, and our staff 30 full days--double the current time allowed--to analyze and provide feedback on the draft call letter and rate notice. This is a no-cost, good-government, bipartisan bill that will make the process more transparent, fair, and advantageous for the beneficiaries we serve. As my good friend from Ohio pointed out, we have already passed this bill. It is only coming back for some technical changes. I would ask, and strongly recommend, that all our colleagues vote in favor of this bill so we can pass it to the Senate and get on with our work. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time. General Leave

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I appeal the ruling of the Chair.

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I would like to be heard on the point of order.

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, this is the final amendment to the bill, which will not kill the bill nor send it back to committee. If adopted, the bill will immediately proceed to final passage, as amended. My motion to recommit would incorporate H.R. 1076, a Republican bill titled the Denying Firearms and Explosives to Dangerous Terrorists Act of 2015, into the underlying bill. The bill is straightforward. It says if you are on the FBI's terrorist watch list, then you don't get to walk into a gun store, pass a background check, and leave with a weapon of your choice. It is an outrageous loophole. And we know it allows dangerous people to easily get guns. Since 2004, more than 2,000 suspected terrorists have legally purchased weapons in the United States. And more than 90 percent of all suspected terrorists who tried to purchase guns in the last 11 years walked away with the weapons they wanted. If there is one thing both sides of this House can agree on, it is keeping guns from terrorists. I know my colleagues on the other side have expressed some concerns. So let's address them. You are worried that there are names on the list that shouldn't be there. This is a legitimate concern. So let's scrub the list. You are worried that it is difficult to get off the list if you are wrongly put on it. This bill has an appeals process. You are concerned about denying people their Second Amendment rights. Well, I am a gun guy. I own guns. I support the Second Amendment. If this bill did anything to violate those rights, my name wouldn't be on it. We are not talking about prohibiting law-abiding, non-dangerous people from getting guns. We are just talking about taking a pause. I think we can all agree that it is better to err on the side of caution and let people get their names taken off the list, rather than just sell them a gun and hope they are not a terrorist. So let's scrub the list and make it accurate. Let's make sure the appeals process is functional and efficient. And if someone is on the terrorist list and is denied from buying a gun, let's pump the brakes and make sure they are, in fact, not a terrorist before that sale is allowed to proceed. Everyone on my side of the aisle stands ready to address your concerns. Will your side do the same? Will you address our concern about terrorists being able to have legal and easy access to guns? We have a chance to take a simple, straightforward step to keep spouses, kids, and communities safe. We can take this vote today. I have filed a discharge petition on the bill. We just need a simple majority to sign it. You can do it right now. If House Republicans agree that terrorists shouldn't be able to get guns, then walk down to the well, sign your name on the line, and let's have a vote. It is your own party's bill. It was supported by George W. Bush's Department of Justice. All it does is prevent suspected terrorists from getting guns--in the exact same way we prevent criminals, domestic abusers, and the dangerously mentally ill from getting guns. We will work with you to address your concerns. Do the same for us. Work with our side to keep guns from suspected terrorists. This is an issue we can all come together on. 2,000 suspected terrorists buying guns is 2,000 too many. So let's stop it. Let's take a stand. Put your name down in writing and let's take a vote. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.