Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, I rise today as the co-chair of the American Sikh Congressional Caucus to recognize and create national awareness about the Saka Nankana Sahib massacre.

The Sikh community across the world is observing 100 years of this horrific event. The massacre refers to the grim episode during the Gurdwara Reform Movement in which a peaceful batch of reformist Sikhs was subjected to a murderous assault on February 20, 1921, in the holy Gurdwara at Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of the founder of the Sikh religion, Guru Nanak.

More than 260 Sikhs were killed, including children as young as 7. Sikhs pay tribute to all those martyred on this day. Their valor and sacrifice will never be forgotten. Their memory inspires us to work even harder to voice for religious freedom and the right of worship.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Mr. Richard Franklin Sheppard, affectionately known as ``Dick,'' who passed away on February 12, 2021.

Mr. Richard ``Dick'' Franklin Sheppard, born June 24, 1936, moved with his family from Oklahoma to California's Central Valley in the early 1930s. Living near Farmersville, Dick began working in the fields around the age of seven. He later began a career in broadcasting at KRDU Radio Station while attending high school in Dinuba.

Dick managed several radio stations throughout California during his career, returning to the Central Valley as the general sales manager of KJOY FM/KRDU AM in the 1990s

before joining the local Sanger newspaper as editor. He remained as editor for the Sanger Herald until his retirement in 2019. Dick also served his country in the U.S. Army Security Agency and the U.S. Navy Reserve in Dinuba. He enjoyed spending time with fellow veterans at the Sanger Post 7168 Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Sanger Post 98

Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Sierra Pacific High School Lady Bears Basketball Team for their victory as California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) Division IV Northern Regional State Champions.

After reigning undefeated in the East Sequoia League and recording the longest winning streak in school history with 20 victories, the Lady Bears of Hanford, California, defeated Colfax High School in the Northern Regional Finals. Having claimed the South Regional Championship title in 2018, the Lady Bears Basketball Team is the first in the state to win a Regional Championship in both the North and South. This season, they were also recognized as Cal-Hi Girls Basketball Division 4 Team of the Year.

While the 2020 California State Championship was cancelled in light of COVID-19 precautions, I know the Lady Bears Basketball Team would have represented their community and school with the same sportsmanship and dedication they exemplified all season.

Led by Head Coach Amy Bush and Assistant Coaches Victor Chavarin, Jr. and Christopher Kennedy, Sierra Pacific High School was proudly represented by Taylor West, Alana Roberts, Celeste Lewis, Taylor Whitfield, Haillee Larios, Kylie Brasil, Angelique Brazil, Cristina Avila, Makayla Carre, Savannah Torres, Annabelle Saavedra, and Lauren Zantos.

I further congratulate Alana Roberts and Celeste Lewis for their outstanding performances. Miss Roberts became the first of her school to achieve 1,000 points and 1,000 rebounds and is the Sierra Pacific Girls Basketball All-Time rebounder with 1,357 rebounds. Miss Lewis, the team's all-time leading scorer, earning 1,832 points, was honored as Cal-Hi Girls Basketball Division 4 State Player of the Year.

Additionally, I commend Alana Roberts, Celeste Lewis, Kylie Brasil, Annabelle Saavedra, and Makayla Carre for their 2020 East Sequoia League 1st Team Honors, as well as Cristina Avila for her 2nd Team Honors.

Off the court, these ladies have inspired many with their community involvement. This season, the Lady Bears Basketball Team volunteered at the Episcopal Church of the Savior Parish Soup Kitchen, hosted a Community Youth Basketball Camp, collected 500 canned food items to support families during the pandemic, and raised $1,290 for the families of Captain Raymond Figueroa and Firefighter Patrick Jones who tragically lost their lives while responding to the Porterville library fire.

Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me congratulating the 2020 Sierra Pacific Girls Basketball Team for these accomplishments and commend their unwavering commitment to serving the Central Valley community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Mr. Gabriel Cristian Viveros, Ill for his service to my office and the people of California's Twenty First Congressional District.

Mr. Viveros was born on July 12, 1993 in Fresno, California to Enedina Patlan Viveros and Gabriel Viveros, II. Growing up in the Central Valley with his two older sisters, Andriana and Marissa, Mr. Viveros always had a sense of curiosity, a unique eye for art, and immense empathy for others--enabling him to connect deeply with people from all walks of life. Early on, Mr. Viveros learned to juggle multiple tasks at once while maintaining keen attention to detail managing his school work and participating in speech, debate, and water polo teams at Clovis East High School. Upon graduating from Clovis East High School in 2011, Mr. Viveros continued his studies at California State University in Fresno, California. During this time, Mr. Viveros used his curiosity, creativity, artistic ability, and confident speech background to find his way into political arenas and social groups, such as the Sigma Chi Fraternity.

Following his graduation from California State University in 2015 with a Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration, Mr. Viveros began his professional career as a Board Assistant for the Fresno County Board of Supervisors. In this role, Mr. Viveros applied his unique skillset to meet the various needs of the office providing administrative support, representing the Supervisor at community events, and expanding social media presence of the Supervisor.

In February of 2017, Mr. Viveros drove cross-country to Washington, D.C. joining my team as Scheduler. As Scheduler, Mr. Viveros was not only integral in managing my daily schedule but also to the overall function of my office. Mr. Viveros' ability to connect with others was evident whenever he interacted with constituents or those looking to schedule a meeting by going above and beyond to accommodate every request. Beyond scheduling, Mr. Viveros frequently volunteered his artistic talents to create digital media content for many of my social media platforms.

Mr. Viveros is also a small business owner, running Gabriel Cristian Photography in Washington, D.C. and Central California. Outside of politics, Viveros spends his free time growing his business and expanding his portfolio. In addition to photography, Gabriel enjoys graphic design, drawing, and interior design. For fun, he enjoys traveling to new cities, hiking, and spending time back home in California with his family.

Mr. Viveros' time with my office will come to an end on January 3, 2019 when I leave my office as the 116th Congress begins. I have no doubt he will continue to be successful and grow professionally in his future endeavors. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in commending Mr. Gabriel Cristian Viveros, III for his public service to the people of California's Central Valley and wishing him well as he embarks on the next chapter of his life.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Ms. Caitriona Rafferty for her service to my office and the people of California's Twenty First Congressional District.

Ms. Rafferty was born August 7, 1993 in Westwood, New Jersey to her parents, Brian and Maria Rafferty. One of four children, Caitriona grew up in Tenafly, New Jersey with her three siblings Ciara, Angela, and Thomas who she remains close with today. Growing up, Caitriona played an active role in her church and giving back to the community; attending mission trips and making time to be a Sunday School teacher. During her time at home, she helped repair houses and loved to play sports. In high school, Caitriona was captain of the Tenafly Tigers Volleyball team and co-captain of the St. Brigid's Ladies Gaelic Football Junior Team. Her hard work and dedication to the sport was a driving force that led her fellow teammates to the Junior Gaelic Football Championship and the World Games Championship in Ireland as a part of the New York Gaelic Athletic Association ``All Stars'' team.

After graduating with honors from Tenafly High School, Ms. Rafferty went on to attend Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Connecticut. While in college, Caitriona developed an interest in politics and began volunteering for local campaigns including Paul Vagianos for State Assembly and Christine Ordway for State Assembly. In Spring 2016, Caitriona studied abroad at John Cabot University in Rome, Italy where she had the opportunity to expand her worldly views, attend a Catholic Easter Mass at the Vatican, and make lifelong friendships. In May 2017, Caitriona graduated from Sacred Heart University with her Bachelor of Science in Political Science.

Caitriona joined my team as an Intern in my Washington, D.C. office in September 2017 and was quickly offered a full-time position on my staff as Staff Assistant in November 2017. As Staff Assistant, Ms. Rafferty was instrumental to my team through managing my D.C. internship program, assisting my constituents by planning tours in the nation's capital, and assisting staff with legislative and communication projects. In February 2018, Ms. Rafferty was promoted to Legislative Correspondent. In this capacity, she ensured every constituent concern or question was promptly addressed.

Ms. Rafferty's laid-back personality and steadfast work ethic was a valuable asset to my office. She was greatly respected by her peers for attention to detail and dedication to her work. Outside of work, Caitriona enjoys going to the movie theater, listening to podcasts, wandering through museums, but above all, she loves spending time with friends and family.

Ms. Rafferty's time with my office will come to an end at the beginning of the 116th Congress on January 3, 2019. I have no doubt she will continue to be successful and grow professionally in her future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in commending Ms. Caitriona Rafferty for her public service to the people of California's Central Valley and wishing her well as she embarks on the next chapter of her life.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Mr. Dylan Cole Chandler for his service to my office and the people of California's Twenty First Congressional District.

Mr. Chandler was born on July 17, 1992 in Huntsville, Alabama. As a child, Mr. Chandler was always supported and encouraged to learn by his parents, Christie Chandler Barclay and Douglas Hines Barclay II.

Growing up in Alabama with his sister, Emma, Mr. Chandler enjoyed being active and challenging himself academically as he held the position of Class Officer and played varsity soccer while attending New Hope High School. Upon graduating in 2010, Mr. Chandler attended the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa where he became an active member of the University's Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity. During the spring semester of his junior year, Mr. Chandler furthered his interest in American politics, gaining firsthand experience of the political process in Washington, D.C. while interning for Congressman Mo Brooks of Alabama.

Mr. Chandler graduated from the University of Alabama with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science in 2015 and soon returned to Capitol Hill beginning his career as a Legislative Correspondent in my Washington, D.C. office. In this position, Mr. Chandler successfully developed and maintained relationships with the constituents of California's Twenty First Congressional District, ensuring every voice was heard and concerns were thoroughly addressed.

Proving himself an integral member of my team, Mr. Chandler quickly moved up to take on the role of Senior Legislative Assistant. Mr. Chandler's dedication to the people of the Central Valley was unwavering as he worked tirelessly on legislative issues impacting my district including Agriculture, Financial Services, and Healthcare. These efforts were instrumental in securing millions of dollars in federal funding, improving the lives of countless people residing in my district.

Outside of work; Mr. Chandler is very active and enjoys skiing, golf, traveling, exploring local restaurants with various cuisines. His family and friends are incredibly important to him and he makes frequent visits to Alabama a top priority.

Mr. Chandler's time in my office will come to an end this January and he will begin a new chapter serving as Legislative Assistant to Congressman Sean Duffy of Wisconsin's Seventh Congressional District. While the Central Valley is losing a strong and reliable advocate, I have no doubt that Mr. Chandler will achieve many great things and continue working to help the lives of many others in the future .

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in commending Mr. Dylan Cole Chandler for his public service to the people of the Central Valley and wishing him the very best in this next chapter of his life.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Ms. Anna Raquel Vetter for her service to my office and the people of California's Twenty First Congressional District.

Ms. Vetter was born on July 27, 1989 in Houston, Texas to Maria Santucci Vetter and Bruce Gary Vetter. Although Ms . Vetter spent parts of her childhood in Texas, Georgia, and Colorado, she spent the majority of her formative years in Champaign, Illinois. As the eldest growing up with her three brothers; Anthony, John, and Daniel, Ms. Vetter was always responsible, reliable, and, when needed, stern-- making her a natural leader.

After graduating from The High School of Saint Thomas Moore in Champaign, Illinois in 2007, Ms. Vetter went on to continue her studies at the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign. While attending the University of Illinois, Ms. Vetter also worked at a local boutique and in the Sports Marketing and Promotions Office for the University's Athletic Department. Balancing her studies and working two jobs, Ms. Vetter graduated in 2011 with a Bachelor of Science in Advertising and Political Science. Soon after, Ms. Vetter began her career on Capitol Hill working as Deputy Communications Director for her hometown Congressman, Timothy V. Johnson.

Ms. Vetter joined my team in February 2013 as my Communications Director. In this role, Ms. Vetter oversaw all outgoing communications and served as my formal spokeswoman and media liaison, cultivating and maintaining relationships with local, state, and national media outlets.

After demonstrating her natural leadership abilities, Ms. Vetter took on the position as Deputy Chief of Staff in April 2016. Through this, Ms. Vetter was a trusted advisor on my

long-term legislative plan and was integral in overseeing all operations and staff in my Washington, D.C. office. As a member of my team, Ms. Vetter was greatly respected by her coworkers for her professionalism and dedication to her work.

Outside of work, Ms. Vetter enjoys golfing, going to the gun range, hiking, and like a true Italian, making and eating pasta. However, she spends most of her freetime with her Labradoodle, Sullenberger ``Sully'' McCormack who she and her fiance, Ryan James McCormack, brought home on June 12, 2018. Additionally, Ms. Vetter is looking forward to her marriage to Mr. McCormack, which will take place on November 2, 2019.

Ms. Vetter's time in my office will come to an end as she becomes the Communications Director for Congressman Van Taylor at the beginning of the 116th Congress. Knowing Ms.Vetter's work ethic, professionalism, and undeniable love for the United States of America, there is no doubt that she will be successful in her new office and in all of her future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in commending Ms. Anna Raquel Vetter for her public service to the people of California's Central Valley and wishing her well as she embarks on the next chapter of her life.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Cole Jonathan Rojewski for his near decade of service to the Central Valley Congressional Delegation, and particularly, for his work in various roles over the last six years for California's Twenty First Congressional District.

Mr. Rojewski was born in Clovis, California to parents Cynthia and AI Rojewski. Cole enjoyed growing up in Clovis countryside with his sister, Dena, and the family's many animals. From an early age, Mr. Rojewski had a love for animals and being outside. As a child and young adult, Cole was an active member of Future Farmers of America (FFA), something he continues to participate in today as a mentor to young FFA members. Cole attended Clovis High School and Clovis East High School, where he was a member of the school's men's golf team and graduated in 2006. Following his graduation from High School, Mr. Rojewski attended California State University, Fresno, where he graduated in 2011, receiving a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science.

It was while attending CSU Fresno that Cole found an interest in politics. Beginning in 2010, Cole worked for Congressman Devin G. Nunes as a Field Representative in his Clovis District Office. Mr. Rojewski continued to work for Mr. Nunes throughout his time in college, and also had an active role on campus as Vice Chair of the Central Valley Region of the California College Republicans.

In 2012, Mr. Rojewski played a vital role in my first campaign for Congress. Following my election that November, Mr. Rojewski joined my team in Washington D.C. Throughout the last six years in my office, Mr. Rojewski has played a vital role in our success representing the Central Valley, having served as my Office Manager, Campaign Manager, Deputy Chief of Staff, and most recently as my Chief of Staff from 2015 to the end of 115th Congress.

Cole's natural leadership abilities, supreme work ethic, and keen political instincts have made him a truly invaluable member of my team, and an excellent public servant elevating the needs of the people of the California's Central Valley throughout the halls of Congress and our nation's Capitol.

Following the 115th Congress, Cole's time in my office will come to an end, but I look forward to seeing what the future has in store for him. I have no doubt he will continue his great work in politics and will have many great achievements in the future.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in commending Cole Rojewski for his public service to the people of the Central Valley and wishing him the very best in this next chapter of his life.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Andrew Gabriel Renteria for his service to my office and the 21st Congressional District of California over the past three years.

Mr. Renteria was born in Fresno, California to parents Rudy and Yolanda Renteria on August 25, 1998. He attended Jackson Elementary and Sanger High School, both located in Sanger, California, where the Renteria family still resides to this day. It was Renteria's experience serving as Sophomore Class Vice President, Junior Class President, and ASB President, that he first became interested in politics. After graduating from Sanger High School in 2016, he went on to attend California State University, Fresno where he enjoyed cheering on the Bulldogs at every chance he got. In May 2011, Andrew graduated from Fresno State with Bachelor of Science in Political Science.

Mr. Renteria has been a member of my team since 2013, first serving as a Field Representative in my Hanford, California office. In 2015, he relocated to Washington, D.C. to serve as my Senior Legislative Assistant, analyzing and drafting public policy to benefit California's San Joaquin Valley. Dedicated to the success of the Republican Party throughout California, Renteria took a leave of absence in 2014 to serve as Field Director for the California Republican Party and again in 2016 to serve as my Campaign Manager. In March 2018, Andrew Renteria returned to Washington to serve as my Legislative Director. In this position, Mr. Renteria brought a wealth of legislative experience and professionalism to my team and has been a very dependable and resourceful advisor and friend. Throughout his career, Mr. Renteria has been an invaluable asset to Team Valadao and the people of the Central Valley.

On January 2, 2019, Mr. Renteria's time in my office will come to an end and he will begin his next chapter serving as Chief of Staff to Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick. While I know he is very excited about this opportunity, he will be greatly missed as a member of my team.

Knowing Mr. Renteria, his character, and his work ethic, I have no doubt that he will achieve many great things in his future.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in commending Andrew Renteria for his public service to the people of the Central Valley and wishing him well in this next chapter of his life.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Perry Finzel for his service to my office and the 21st Congressional District of California over the past year.

Mr. Finzel was born in El Paso, Texas on May 18, 1979. Soon after graduating high school in 1997, Mr. Finzel joined the United States Marine Corps. In his seventeen years of service, Mr. Finzel was involved in enlistment recruitment, military operations, and the supervision of components crucial to the success of personnel. He was known as a hard-worker, adept multitasker, efficient manager, and dedicated soldier. Perry was honorably discharged as a Staff Sergeant, after participating in Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). We are forever grateful for his service to our nation.

Perry's commitment to excellence extended far beyond his military career. He was successful in obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Business, concentration in Management, from the University of Phoenix. Beginning a new chapter in Bakersfield, California, Perry also worked as a supervisor for a solar company and customer service associate for a hardware store.

Perry became a member of my Congressional Team in 2017, serving as our Wounded Warrior Fellow and Kern County Field Representative. He proved to be a strong asset in Kern County, creating meaningful connections with community leaders and representing my team with charisma and professionalism. Local leaders consistently praised Perry for his genuine care for the community and willingness to show up to countless meetings and events. His dependability in field representation combined with his powerful ability to connect with people made Mr. Finzel an invaluable member of my team and a true public servant to the people of California's Central Valley.

Outside of work, Perry enjoys staying involved in veteran service organizations. He also loves spending time with his family. Perry and his wife, Julie, have two beautiful children: Cadence and Nate. Raising his children with his wife has become one of the greatest joys in his life. This January, Mr. Finzel will be moving on to new ventures. Knowing Perry, his character and worth ethic, I have no doubt he will achieve many great things in his future.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in commending Perry Finzel for his public service to the people of the Central Valley and wishing him the very best in this next chapter of his life.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Ms. Kayla Ann Rillo for her service to my office and the people of California's Twenty First Congressional District.

Ms. Rillo was born on September 19, 1994 in Paterson, New Jersey to Diane and Anthony Rillo. Growing up in Totowa, New Jersey with her three sisters, Alyssa, Reanna, and Tia, Ms. Rillo always had immense love and pride for her family. Coming from a large family, Ms. Rillo has a natural competitive drive, a strong sense of self-awareness, and the ability to distinguish herself from others. Through that, Ms. Rillo succeeded academically with ease as she competed in varsity track, basketball, and softball at Passaic Valley High School in Little Falls, New Jersey.

After graduating from Passaic Valley Regional High School in 2012, Ms. Rillo went on

to attend Seton Hall University in South Orange, New Jersey where she was able to pursue her love for helping others and giving back to the community by joining Alpha Gamma Delta Sorority. During her time at Seton Hall University, Ms. Rillo developed a strong interest in law and politics, gaining firsthand experience as an intern for the Honorable Judge Dennis Cavanaugh while he served the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey's Third Circuit. Given Ms. Rillo's competitive nature, she graduated early with her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science.

Kayla joined my team as a Legislative Correspondent in my Washington, DC office in July 2016. In this role, Ms. Rillo was instrumental to my team through composing constituent correspondence that was critical to building relationships with the citizens of California's Twenty First Congressional District. In February 2018, Kayla was promoted to the position of Legislative Assistant, where she worked on critical pieces of legislation, especially the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations bill. As a member of my team, Ms. Rillo was greatly respected by her peers for her professionalism, loyalty, and dedication to her work.

Outside of work, Kayla participates in a local softball league, enjoys exploring DC with friends, travelling to new places, and spending time with her family. Most recently, Ms. Rillo became a proud aunt to her new nephew, Cesar Ricardo Correa, IV.

Ms. Rillo's time with my office will come to an end on January 3, 2019 when I leave my office as the 116th Congress begins. I have no doubt that she will continue to be successful and grow professionally in her future endeavors. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in commending Ms. Kayla Rillo for her public service to the people of California's Central Valley and wishing her well as she embarks on the next chapter of her life.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Mr. Alexander Edward Tavlian for his years of service to my office and the 21st Congressional District.

Mr. Tavlian was born on April 1, 1992 in Fresno, California. After graduating from Clovis West High School in 2010, Alex received his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from University of California, Davis in 2014. He continued his education soon after, earning his Juris Doctor from California Western School of Law in 2017. He is now a member of the State Bar of California and a licensed attorney.

Alex first became a member of my Congressional Team in 2013 when he served as a summer intern in Washington, D.C. Mr. Tavlian's hard working demeanor and extreme talent left a strong impression on me and my staff, maintaining a close relationship with my office as he pursued other ventures. He rejoined my Congressional Team in 2017, serving as our Deputy District Director. Alex managed special projects and strategic initiatives, advising staff on pertinent district-level issues and coordinating media opportunities. He proved to be a strong asset across the 21st Congressional District, creating meaningful connections with community leaders and leading staff with wisdom and inspiration. Alex's wide breadth of policy knowledge combined with effective organizational leadership made him an in valuable member of my team and a true public servant to the people of California's Central Valley.

Throughout his professional career, Mr. Tavlian has shown strong passion and immense talent in the field of politics. He founded Sultana Media in 2014, a strategic communications and digital media firm serving political and public affairs campaigns. Servicing campaigns, presidential and local, Alex has become well known for his dedication and commitment to his clients. This past election cycle, Alex served as team Valadao's Campaign Manager.

Aside from politics, Alex also has a passion for the Nation's legal system. He has worked for and studied under multiple legal entities, including private law firms, the Fresno County District Attorney's Office, and the U.S. Attorney's Office. Being a licensed attorney himself, Alex brings a fresh legal perspective into each of his professional avenues.

Outside of work, Alex enjoys traveling across California, taking advantage of the sights to perfect his photography skills. He also is an avid sports fan, taking every opportunity to watch San Francisco Giants base ball and Oakland Raiders football.

This January, Mr. Tavlian will be moving onto new ventures. Knowing Alex, his character and work ethic, I have no doubt he will achieve many great things in his future.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in commending Alexander Edward Tavlian for his public service to the people of the Central Valley and wishing him the very best in this next chapter of his life.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Mr. Jacob Bennett Mizner for his service to my office and California's Central Valley.

Mr. Mizner was born on July 16, 1994 in Tulare, California to Kevin and Sharon Mizner. From an early age, Mr. Mizner developed a strong love for music, which led him to participate in productions at his local community theater and join Tulare Western High School's band and choir. After graduating from Tulare Western High School in 2012, Mr. Mizner furthered his love for the arts while participating in the musical and theater programs at Fresno Pacific University in Fresno, California in 2016. While attending Fresno Pacific University, Mr. Mizner, a lover of music, was involved in Fresno Pacific Concert Choir.

Upon graduating Magna Cum Laude in 2016 from Fresno Pacific University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Mr. Mizner joined my team as a Field Representative in Kings and Tulare Counties. As Field Representative, Mr. Mizner was known for his friendly, optimistic personality throughout both counties and his ability to create and foster connections with constituents, business leaders, and public officials.

In addition to participating in local musical groups, outside of work Mr. Mizner is an active member in Visalia First Assembly of God Church in Visalia, California. At Visalia First Assembly of God, Mr. Mizner leads small groups through the church's young adult program while also assisting in the planning and implementation of events within the church's community.

Mr. Mizner's faith and inherent love of helping those in need empowered him to volunteer with The World Race in January of 2017. Through this eleven-month mission trip, Mr. Mizner traveled to twelve countries throughout Africa, Asia, and Central America. In this role, Mr. Mizner was able to assist poverty-stricken areas by completing various tasks including working in orphanages and local prisons, overseeing and participating in manual labor projects, and teaching English in local schools.

In December of 2017, following this challenging and rewarding experience, Mr. Mizner continued his pursuit of helping others becoming the Constituent Services Representative in my District Office. Mr. Mizner's ability to listen to and connect with the people of California's 21st Congressional District is unlike that of anyone else and made him an invaluable member of my team. Mr. Mizner's determination, thorough work ethic, and genuine kindness did not go unnoticed by those he served and enabled him to truly excel in this position by going above and beyond to ensure the needs of every constituent were met. While Mr. Mizner's work for the 21st Congressional District will come to an end this January, his service to the Central Valley will continue as he becomes the Fresno County Field Representative for Congressman Devin Nunes. Knowing Mr. Mizner, his character, and his work ethic, I have no doubt that he will be successful in this new role and all future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in commending Mr. Jacob Mizner for his public service to the people of California's 21st Congressional District and wishing him well as he embarks on the next chapter of his life.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Maria Lourdes Benitez for her service to my office and the 21st Congressional District of California over the past year.

Maria Benitez was born on November 23, 1966 in Los Angeles and was raised in Escondido, California. After graduating from Orange

Glen High School, Maria received her Bachelor's Degree in Public Administration, with an emphasis in Criminal Justice, from National University in San Diego, California.

Maria met her future husband, Mr. Roman Benitez, while attending National University. They married soon after her graduation. At the time, Roman was an officer in the United States Navy. Because of his military service, they have been able to live in a variety of places including San Diego, Monterrey, and Japan.

Mrs. Benitez and her husband moved to Lemoore, California in 2007 with both taking positions at Lemoore Naval Air Station. Maria was hired as a Human Resource Assistant, eventually becoming a Work and Family Life Consultant. In this role, she aided military families through transitions, career searches, professional development, and financial counseling. Mrs. Benitez is also a small business owner, running an esthetician business in Hanford, California.

Maria became a member of my Congressional Team this year, serving as Staff Assistant in my Hanford, California Office. She quickly proved herself to be an invaluable asset, overseeing the daily operations of my district office. This included the production of tens of thousands of congressional certificates and management of the internship program. Maria also presented awards on my behalf at events in Kings County, representing the team's values with poise and professionalism. She was known for her ability to provide the highest level of service to my constituents, aiding hundreds of people with their various concerns.

Maria was also instrumental in the planning and implementation of the 21st Congressional District's 2018 Military Academy Nominations. With responsibilities ranging from informational events to potential nominee interviews, Maria proved herself to be a strong communicator to high school students and educators. She generated high interest throughout the community and aided multiple students with nominations to the academies. Her effectiveness in constituent service combined with her powerful ability to connect with people made Maria an invaluable member of my team and a true public servant to the people of California's Central Valley.

Outside work, Maria enjoys spending quality time with her husband. They remain active in local community organizations and are known as active volunteers. They also enjoy traveling. Their favorite trips are visits with their two beloved children, Alexandra and Roman Jr.

This January, Mrs. Benitez will be moving onto new ventures. Knowing Maria, her character and work ethic, I have no doubt she will continue to achieve many great things. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in commending Maria Lourdes Benitez for her public service to the people of the Central Valley and wishing her the very best in this next chapter of her life.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Dixie Valentine Lobmeyer for her service to my office and the 21st Congressional District of California over the past four years.

Miss Lobmeyer was born on February 8, 1997 in Hanford, California. After graduating from Hanford West High School in 2015, Dixie received her Associates of Arts degree from College of the Sequoias this year. She plans to attend California State University, Fresno beginning in 2019, studying Communications and Media Relations.

Miss Lobmeyer has been a member of my Congressional Team since 2014, serving in multiple roles. After showcasing incredible talent and potential as an intern, Dixie was hired in 2015 as our Staff Assistant. Her responsibilities quickly grew as she proved to be an effective and successful staffer. Dixie managed the daily operations of my district office, overseeing the intern program and producing tens of thousands of congressional certificates for the community. She also acted as my representative at many events, effectively communicating the ideals of our office. It isn't a hyperbole to say Miss Lobmeyer had a role in every aspect of district office operations. She is a hard, dedicated worker who was highly respected by her peers and was able to create and foster connections with constituents, business leaders, and public officials.

In 2017, Dixie transitioned to a campaign-centered role with my team. She became the Republican Party's Congressional Field Director for the California's Twenty First Congressional Race, managing the Kings County Victory program. Dixie recruited, hired, and supervised hundreds of interns and organized voter contact initiatives. She continued to demonstrate leadership and served as an effective communicator. With her many successes and responsibilities, it is often forgotten that Dixie is younger than most of her peers. She is only in her early twenties but commands the respect of veteran political operatives.

Outside of work and school, Dixie enjoys volunteering in her community. Public service is her passion and she strives to give back to the city that has given so much to her. Dixie's family is also very important to her and she loves spending time with her brothers and sisters. For fun, she likes to go hiking with her friends and enjoy the natural beauty of California.

This January, Miss Lobmeyer will be moving onto new ventures. Knowing Dixie, her work-ethic and talent, I have no doubt she will achieve many great things in her future. She is a natural leader who will inspire people for years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in commending Dixie Valentine Lobmeyer for her public service to the people of the Central Valley and wishing her the very best in this next chapter of her life.