Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Carmichael Recreation and Park District on their 80th Anniversary. Through their mission, they have provided valuable community resources that have enriched the lives of its residents.

Starting in 1945, Carmichael Park and Recreation District acquired its first land parcel that went on to become their flagship park, Carmichael Park. After further land acquisitions between 1971 and 1990, the district now includes 12 additional park sites.

Parks in the district are major community hubs that include playgrounds, dog parks, ball fields, tennis and pickleball courts, as well as community gathering spaces. With their wide variety of outdoor spaces, the parks attract thousands of visitors every year.

Over their 80 years of service, the Carmichael Recreation and Park District has successfully maintained its parks and facilities through many challenges. They continue to provide exceptional recreation experiences and will continue to do so for many years to come.

I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing this day as the Carmichael Recreation and Park District's 80th Anniversary and thank them for their dedication to their community and its residents.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Fair Oaks on their 130th Anniversary. Originally founded as an agricultural colony, Fair Oaks has grown into an area of deep cultural history and a strong sense of community.

The land in Fair Oaks was part of the original 1844 Mexican Land Grant, Rancho San Juan, and was advertised as a new paradise waiting for farmers looking to make a comfortable living. Even though founding residents experienced hardships like the Great Depression, World War II, and a devastating freeze that wiped out many citrus crops, the area continued to thrive and develop.

As Fair Oaks grew, so too did its industry and commerce. The completion of the Folsom and Nimbus dams, and arrival of Aerojet signaled a new page in Fair Oaks' history. Fair Oaks is a booming town that continues to change with its fast-growing population.

It is with great appreciation to the Fair Oaks Historical Society that the founding and legacy of Fair Oaks has continued to be preserved and honored. On this day, the Society celebrates their 50th Anniversary alongside Fair Oaks' 130th Anniversary.

I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing this day as Fair Oaks' 130th Anniversary and commend this community's beautiful history.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Barbara Marquez, who was named the Alzheimer's Impact Movement Advocate of the Month.

Barbara's connection to Alzheimer's is deeply personal. She lost her maternal grandmother and five of her mother's siblings to this devastating disease. When her mother, Florence,

began showing signs of cognitive decline, Barbara stepped in as her full-time caregiver, managing medications, doctor visits, and daily support.

After a frightening incident when her mother went missing, Barbara made the decision to move Florence into her home, eventually retiring early to care for her full time.

Like so many caregivers, Barbara faced emotional and financial strain. Even with insurance, the cost of care added up for adult day programs, nutritional support, and memory care.

Rather than step back, Barbara stepped up. She became an active advocate with the Alzheimer's Impact Movement, lending her voice and experience to support families across our community.

Barbara has been instrumental in helping my office organize our annual Brain Health Forum with the Alzheimer's Association, bringing together caregivers, experts, and advocates to share resources and expand awareness around brain health and dementia care.

Barbara's story is one of love, resilience, and service. I am proud to honor her today and thank her for everything she has done and continues to do for families impacted by Alzheimer's in Sacramento County and beyond.

Honoring Sacramento County's 175th Anniversary

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor 175 years of Sacramento County, a truly special milestone.

Established in 1850 as one of California's original 27 counties, Sacramento has always been at the heart of our State's story. Just a few years later, in 1854, Sacramento became the permanent capital of California. We have served as the political, cultural, and economic engine of our State ever since.

From the Gold Rush to the completion of the transcontinental railroad, Sacramento County has helped connect our Nation from coast to coast and fueled California's early growth.

Our story didn't stop there. Generations of families, immigrants, farmers, teachers, veterans, and small business owners have worked together to build a more inclusive, resilient, and thriving community.

Today, Sacramento County is the leader in agriculture, clean energy, and technology and remains one of the most diverse places in the country. We are proudly known as the Farm-to-Fork Capital and home to the largest tree canopy in the United States, earning us the title of ``City of Trees.''

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to call Sacramento County home, and I am honored to represent our people in Congress. I congratulate Sacramento County on 175 years of leadership, service, and progress. Here is to the next 175 years.

Congratulating Jesuit Marauders on CIF Championship

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Jesuit High School Marauders of Carmichael, California, for capturing their first-ever CIF State basketball championship and doing so in truly historic fashion.

At Sacramento's Golden 1 Center, Jesuit put on a master class in teamwork and execution, defeating L.A. County heavyweight Chatsworth 66-53.

In what the Sacramento Bee called one of the most remarkable championship efforts, the Marauders showed us all how the game should be played--with heart, with discipline, and with unity.

This was more than a win. It was a defining moment. Jesuit beat a program with national recognition. In doing so, they inspired a new generation of young athletes across Sacramento County to lead with character and strive for excellence.

I congratulate the players, coaches, and community. They have made history and have made our community proud.

Go Marauders.

Recognizing Mosaic Law Congregation

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 125th anniversary of the Mosaic Law Congregation, an important milestone for one of Sacramento County's most respected, enduring faith communities.

Founded in 1900 by just seven families, Mosaic Law has grown into a vibrant, multigenerational congregation, now serving more than 400 families across our region.

From its current home on H Street to its current 6-acre campus on Sierra Boulevard, the congregation has expanded not only in size but in its impact on our community.

Mosaic Law is more than a synagogue. It is home to Sacramento's only Jewish day school, the Shalom School, as well as the KOH Library and the Central Valley Holocaust Education Network. It is a place where families gather, where children learn, and where the value of service, education, and remembrance are passed down from generation to generation.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the entire Mosaic Law community for the role it plays in shaping the civic and moral life of Sacramento County.

Mazel tov on 125 years.

Mr. Speaker, it is both an honor and a bittersweet moment for me today as my office bids farewell to someone who has been a cornerstone of Team Bera since my first year in office in 2013.

When Kelvin Lum first walked in through the doors as an intern, no one could have predicted the tremendous impact that he would have not just on our office, but on the lives of the people who we serve.

Over his tenure, Kelvin has been instrumental in securing funding for numerous projects that have improved the lives of Sacramento County residents. From forging relationships with community partners, to working behind the scenes to ensure that Federal resources reach those who need it the most, Kelvin has played a vital role in making these projects a reality.

His leadership and dedication have left a lasting impact on our community, from strengthening our infrastructure and expanding public safety initiatives, to driving economic development that has lifted up families and businesses alike.

Kelvin has set an example for all of us of what it means to lead with integrity, to work with passion, and to always put the people who we serve at the heart of what we do.

Beyond his official duties, Kelvin is a mentor and a friend to everyone on our team and across the Halls of Congress.

While we will all miss Kelvin in our office, I know that the work he has done here will continue to have a lasting impact. His legacy is woven into every bill we have passed, every amendment we have introduced, and every constituent we have helped.

That said, Kelvin will continue to be in service of others as the director of Federal policy at Stop AAPI Hate, a nonprofit that fights discrimination against the AANHPI community. I have no doubt that he will bring the same dedication and passion to this role as he has in our office.

Perhaps Kelvin's greatest accomplishment was meeting his future wife, Nisha, in our office. It is our hope that Kelvin soon will add to the next generation of Team Bera. We wish Kelvin and Nisha the best in this next endeavor.

Please join me in thanking Kelvin for his service to our community and our great Nation as we send him off with our heartfelt thanks and appreciation.

Mr. Speaker, I missed the vote series today. Had I been present, I would have voted yea on the Motion to Recommit on H.R. 26, (Roll Call No. 34), and nay on Passage of H.R. 26, (Roll Call No. 35).

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Andra Bucci, a Holocaust survivor whose remarkable story of resilience, survival, and education continues to inspire generations.

Andra and her sister, Tatiana, were just 4 and 6 years old when they were taken from their home in Italy and sent to Auschwitz. A tragic case of mistaken identity saved their lives. Josef Mengele, the so- called Angel of Death, believed they were twins and spared them for his inhumane experiments.

Their father, a prisoner of war in South Africa, had no idea if his family had survived. Their mother, in an act of extraordinary courage, risked her life to visit them inside the camp, reminding them never to forget their names and never to let their identity be reduced to a tattooed number.

After the war, the sisters were placed in an orphanage run by Anna Freud, daughter of Sigmund Freud. They believed they were alone in the world until a picture, the same picture they had kissed every night in Auschwitz, arrived with a letter. Their parents had survived. They were among the rarest of Holocaust survivors: children whose entire family made it through.

Today, Andra Bucci calls Sacramento County home, but she and her sister have never stopped telling their story. Since 1995, they have returned to Auschwitz bringing hundreds of students with them to ensure the world never forgets. Just recently, Andra spoke in my district where she shared her harrowing testimony.

Madam Speaker, as the years pass, the voices of Holocaust survivors grow fewer, but their stories never fade. Never Again is not just a phrase. It is a command. It is our responsibility to remember, to educate, and to stand against hatred in all forms.

May Andra's story and the stories of all survivors live on.

Congratulating Rio Americano High School AM Jazz Band

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate the exceptional students of Rio Americano High School AM Jazz Band for outstanding achievement.

This talented group has been selected to compete at the prestigious Essentially Ellington High School Jazz Band Competition and Festival at Lincoln Center in New York City. This is one of the most distinguished honors in high school jazz, and Rio Americano has now earned this recognition for the 12th time, the most of any high school in California.

Sacramento has long been known for its vibrant arts and music community. Rio Americano High School is helping put our city on the map as one of the best music programs in the country.

This year's festival is particularly special as it celebrates its 30th anniversary, bringing together 30 high school bands, including three from international schools.

Hosted by Jazz at Lincoln Center, this competition not only showcases talent but also promotes jazz education and appreciation, carrying forward the legacy of the legendary Duke Ellington.

This is a moment of pride not only for Rio Americano but our entire Sacramento community.

Madam Speaker, let us recognize and celebrate this extraordinary accomplishment.

Congratulations to Rio Americano High School AM Jazz Band. Let's go win.

Mr. Speaker, I missed the vote series today. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 32, the Trahan Amendment to H.R. 27 and YEA on Roll Call No. 33, Passage of H.R. 27 the HALT Fentanyl Act.

personal explanation

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to celebrate three young men who this weekend will receive their Eagle Scout badges.

Now, Mr. Speaker, I was a Boy Scout in Troop 805 in Downey, California, but I never actually achieved my Eagle Scout. I know what an honor this is and how hard they worked.

I celebrate Vincent Misenti, an honor student at Pleasant Grove High School in Elk Grove, California. For his Eagle Scout project, he planned, developed, and installed pre-identification signs along the Gold River Parkway's nature trails.

This project totaled 30 distinct permanent signs representing a total of 11 different tree species. Vincent is also a member of the Pleasant Grove High School varsity football team, and he has got a stellar academic record with a 4.0 GPA.

Mr. Speaker, I honor Chase Soriano. Chase is a freshman at Jesuit High School in Sacramento, California. His Eagle Scout project was working with the Cordova Recreation and Park District to purchase, build, and install a little free library at the neighborhood park to improve literacy in his community.

This library allows children to exchange books that they have outgrown or read, allowing others to read the same stories Chase read as a child. Chase plays bass guitar, violin, and is a member of the football, rugby, and track teams at Jesuit High. He also has an impressive 4.1 GPA.

Mr. Speaker, I also honor Gregory Rubio who will become an Eagle Scout this weekend as well.

Gregory is a junior at Cordova High School in Rancho Cordova, California, and is on track to achieve his international baccalaureate diploma. His Eagle Scout project was working with the Cordova Recreation and Park District and the Tuskegee Airmen Heritage Chapter of Sacramento to design, purchase, install, and promote a memorial to the Tuskegee Airmen at Veterans Park in Mather. These signs focus on the 477th Bombardier Squadron who served at Mather Air Force Base during World War II.

Gregory plays the drums, participates in Skills USA, competes in National History Day at the county and State level, and is a student pilot who just flew his first solo fight.

I congratulate Vincent, Chase, and Gregory on this achievement. When I think about what I learned in the Boy Scouts, and when I think about the world that we are confronted with, they can teach us a lot by that Scout motto: ``Be prepared.''

Sense of Togetherness

Mr. Speaker, often the public out there sees Democrats and Republicans fighting and wonder: Where did that comity go? Where did the sense of being together go?

Well, Mr. Speaker, this past December over the Christmas holiday, I was surprised by one of my Republican colleagues, the Congressman from Tyler, Texas, who sent me a Greenberg Smoked Turkey out of the blue.

Mr. Speaker, that is the civility that exists between Democrats and Republicans. I thank that Member of Congress who represents Tyler, Texas, and that Greenberg Smoked Turkey sure was delicious.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Susan Heredia for her service to the Natomas Unified School District and the greater Sacramento community.

For nearly a quarter century, Dr. Heredia has worked tirelessly to ensure every Natomas student has access to the opportunities they deserve.

Dr. Heredia began her journey as a bilingual teacher, and her commitment to diversity and inclusion has been a constant throughout her career. As a member of the Natomas school board since 2000 and in her roles at UC Davis and Sacramento State, she has helped shape the education of thousands of students. Her leadership in bilingual and multicultural education has left a lasting impact on our community.

Beyond Natomas, Dr. Heredia has played a critical role on the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing and as a leader with the California School Board Association where she has been a strong advocate for improving educational access, opportunities, and outcomes for all students.

As Dr. Heredia steps into a well-deserved retirement, we celebrate not just her decades of service but the countless lives she has touched along the way.

We thank her for her tireless work and unwavering commitment to the students and families of Natomas and our great State. I wish her all the best in her retirement and know her impact will be felt in our community for years to come.

100th Anniversary of the Rio Linda Grange

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Rio Linda Grange No. 403, a cornerstone of community life in Sacramento since 1924.

For a century, the Rio Linda Grange has been a beacon of civic engagement and community spirit, embodying the Grange's tradition of being unspotted from the world while making significant contributions to the well-being of Rio Linda and Elverta.

From the early days of installing the iconic Rio Linda arches to their ongoing efforts in education, infrastructure, and community support, the Grange has tirelessly worked to improve the lives of local residents.

They have championed causes that led to the establishment of critical infrastructure such as supporting the formation of reliable utility services, advocating for safer rail crossings, and petitioning for better street lighting.

The Grange's influence is deeply woven into the fabric of the community from offering practical workshops on homesteading and fruit preservation to serving as a gathering place for shared learning and support.

As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, I am proud to honor the Rio Linda Grange for its enduring commitment to the community and its significant contributions to the social and civic fabric of Sacramento County. Their legacy of service continues to inspire and uplift all who have been touched by their work.

Honoring Bill Camp

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of one of my good friends, Mr. Bill Camp. He passed this week, and it is with heavy hearts that those of us in Sacramento who got to work with Bill celebrate and remember his extraordinary life.

I first met Bill about 20 years ago through the American Leadership Forum and got to know Bill's life of service. He was an unsung hero.

This was a gentleman who rose up in the civil rights movement in Mississippi and worked tirelessly to give a voice to those that had no voice.

In the words of our former colleague, John Lewis, Bill embodied that spirit of showing up, of standing up, and of speaking up.

He came to Sacramento in the early sixties and became one of our labor leaders. He really did fight tirelessly.

We weren't always on the same side of each issue, we had our disagreements, but Bill showed up and stood up for those that didn't have any voice.

Thank you, Bill, for a lifetime of service. Rest in power, brother Bill. Your fight lives on in all of us.

Mr. Speaker, I missed one vote today. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 420.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commend the Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity, Gamma Epsilon Boule on the occasion of its 40th anniversary, acknowledging its significant contributions to the Sacramento community and its dedication to the principles of leadership, service, and scholarship.

Whereas, Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity, also known as the Boule, was founded on May 15, 1904, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania by a group of professionals as the first African American Greek-lettered organization, dedicated to fostering a spirit of brotherhood, professional excellence, and community service; and

Whereas, the Gamma Epsilon Boule of Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity was established 40 years ago in the Sacramento region, when its first Sire Archon John Wesley Hudson MD wrote a letter on July 27, 1984 stating that Gamma Epsilon Boule had completed its chartering ceremony with a list of members including fourteen distinguished professionals in the Sacramento metropolitan area of which two are still living today including Archon Dr. Eugene Spencer and Archon Judge Gary E. Ransom; and

Whereas, the members of the Gamma Epsilon Boule continues to include an impressive list of local and national leaders representing a variety of professions, including the following: medicine, dentistry, health care, law, politics, architecture, engineering, real estate development, education, the entertainment industry and business; and

Whereas, the members of the Gamma Epsilon Boule have contributed to the Sacramento community through its dedication to leadership, academic excellence, and civic engagement, and demonstrated exceptional commitment to mentoring youth, supporting educational initiatives, and fostering economic development, thereby enhancing the quality of life in Sacramento; and

Whereas, this 40th anniversary provides an opportunity to honor the Boule's remarkable achievements and the positive impact it has had on the Sacramento community fostering a more inclusive and equitable society. Now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the United States Congress extends its congratulations to the Gamma Epsilon Boule, celebrating its legacy of excellence and wishing its members continued success in their future endeavors.

I ask that my colleagues join me in commending Gamma Epsilon Boule's 40th anniversary and wish them the best on their continued work and dedication towards improving the Sacramento region.

Mr. Speaker, I missed one vote today. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 359.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Captain Ian Bastek who recently retired as the commanding officer in the Air Station Sacramento Command.

Captain Bastek's career began in 1997 in the U.S. Coast Guard Academy and has been marked by exemplary dedication and leadership in the 27 years since.

From training pilots at the Coast Guard Aviation Training Center in Alabama to serving as Senior U.S. Coast Guard Joint Task Force East adviser to NORAD and U.S. NORTHCOM, Captain Bastek has made immense contributions to our Nation's security throughout his decorated career.

His contributions have earned him multiple prestigious military awards, including three Meritorious Service Medals, the Coast Guard Commendation Medal, and four Coast Guard Achievement Medals.

Captain Bastek's leadership at Air Station Sacramento was particularly notable. Under his leadership, the air station solved a critical fuselage issue that grounded the world's C-27J fleet.

While serving at Air Station Sacramento, Captain Bastek worked closely with my congressional office. His insights and advocacy were instrumental in ensuring that our Coast Guard units received the necessary funding to continue their essential missions.

As he transitions to his new role as the deputy director of response in California Governor's Office of Emergency Services, I am confident that his leadership skills and expertise will continue to benefit our State.

Please join me in congratulating Captain Ian Bastek on his remarkable career and new position.

Recognizing Jarek Neczypor

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Lieutenant Jarek Neczypor for his perseverance and participation in the Department of Defense's 2024 Warrior Games.

A native of Sacramento, Lieutenant Neczypor joined the Navy with a desire to serve his country and see the world. His service took him across Asia, where he proudly represented our Nation.

Following his injuries, Lieutenant Neczypor's involvement with the Navy Wounded Warrior connected him with fellow servicemembers fostering a supportive community crucial to his healing journey.

In this network, Lieutenant Neczypor and his shipmates have shared valuable resources related to education, employment, and veteran support organizations. These experiences inspired him to attend law school where he continues in his commitment to serve others through his involvement in Yale's Veterans Legal Services Clinic and Medical-Legal Partnership.

This year in the Warrior Games, Lieutenant Neczypor competed in cycling, precision air sports, track, wheelchair basketball, and wheelchair rugby.

Please join me in celebrating Lieutenant Jarek Neczypor's outstanding achievements and continued dedication to his fellow veterans.

California Capital Airshow

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak about the upcoming California Capital Airshow set to take place this weekend at Mather Airport in Sacramento County. Established in 2004, this annual event not only honors our region's rich aviation heritage and our brave veterans, but it also inspires the next generation with the power and magic of flight.

This year's airshow promises to be a spectacular celebration, featuring the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and Italy's Frecce Tricolori. As we mark the 75th anniversary of NATO this week in Washington, this event underscores the strength of our alliances and the collaborative spirit that underpins our international partnerships.

The California Capital Airshow offers exhilarating aerial performances, interactive exhibits, and educational programs that engage and inspire our community.

It is time for families to come together, for us to celebrate our shared history and to look forward to the future of aviation and aerospace innovation.

As a proud Representative of Sacramento County, I am thrilled to support an event that brings such pride to our community. Let us celebrate this dedication of our servicemen and -women and the enduring power of international cooperation. It keeps our skies safe.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Marc Vankeuren and Edie Xiong on being named the 2024-25 Twin Rivers Unified School Districts Teachers of the Year.

Marc has spent the last 8 years teaching AP Physics, AP Environmental Science, and Physics of the Universe at Grant Union High School.

Dr. Vankeuren's passion for science and innovative teaching methods ignites curiosity amongst his students and inspires them to engage in the world of science.

Edie Xiong is a fifth grade teacher at Foothill Oaks Elementary School. Edie is currently finishing her 10th year teaching at Foothill Oaks where she is recognized for her contributions both inside and outside the classroom.

Edie develops her classroom culture with a sense of family, instilling pride in her students, and motivating them to be successful in their future endeavors.

These two exceptional teachers will now advance to the countywide level Teacher of the Year competition. Thank you for helping provide our Sacramento County students with the world-class education they deserve.

Mr. Chair, I missed one vote today. Had I been present, I would have voted NO on the Greene (GA) Amendment to H.R. 8580, Roll Call No. 239.