Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize SEVA Collective, a nonprofit based in the City of Santa Ana, for their diligent efforts in supporting our communities in need.

Since its inception, SEVA Collective has served over 5.5 million meals, establishing methods to tackle food insecurity for communities across Orange County and Southern California. Through a strong commitment to selfless service, SEVA Collective regularly runs food drives and provides food for our neighbors in need, year-round, rain or shine.

Beyond their efforts in tackling food insecurity, SEVA Collective also believes in inspiring the next generation of leaders. SEVA Collective also offers programming focused on youth development, having led 30+ graduates in developing the skills needed to become strong, competent, and committed leaders.

Always striving to find ways to help others, SEVA Collective has also established a free medical clinic that operates during their regular food distributions. This clinic further supports our neighbors in need, providing basic access to medical tests and offering free medical consultations for all those who come. With the establishment of this clinic, SEVA Collective has been able to help our neighbors catch health issues that would have otherwise gone undetected.

I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing SEVA Collective for their hard work and selfless service in helping those in need and inspiring action through committed leadership. We thank SEVA Collective for all that they have done to support the health and wellness of our neighbors back home. All of us here in Orange County wish them success as they continue to serve our communities for generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Andy Nogal, Deputy Director for the Housing & Community Development Department of the City of Anaheim, on his retirement.

For the past 24 years, Andy has served as a key member of the City of Anaheim's Housing & Community Development Department, holding responsibility for all aspects of for-sale and rental housing development projects. Andy has extensive experience with housing development financing, including State and Federal Tax Credits, bond financing, and other funding sources. He has a profound passion for affordable housing development and was part of a team that facilitated the development of over 2,879 affordable rental new construction, acquisition/rehabilitation, and for-sale housing units since 2005.

Andy also has a strong interest in the built environment, ensuring that Anaheim's affordable housing development projects are designed in a manner that are respectful to neighborhood character, provide quality architectural and landscape design, stand the test of time, and serve as an asset to the community.

In times of reduced financial and staff resources, Andy continues to seek and identify internal and external resources to assist in the development of affordable housing. Andy worked with Anaheim City Planners to implement substantial developer incentives/waivers as part of the City's Multifamily Affordable Housing Ordinance/Density Bonus Ordinance to incentivize the development of affordable housing. Andy also assisted in the creation of the City of Anaheim's Affordable Housing Strategic Plan--establishing a five-year goal for the creation of more than 2,812 rental new construction, rental rehabilitation and for-sale affordable housing units. To help achieve these goals, Andy assisted with the implementation of an expedited entitlement process for affordable housing development projects and the prioritization and allocation of City Department resources for affordable housing projects such as energy star rebates, fee deferrals, and fee waivers. Andy is a City Planner by trade and holds a Bachelor of Science in Urban and Regional Planning from Cal Poly Pomona University.

I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Andy Nogal on his retirement from the City of Anaheim. I thank Andy for his diligent work serving our communities here in Orange County.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Father Bill Cao, an Orange County Pastor who has dedicated his life in service to those around him. His impact on Orange County through his work as a pastor is felt throughout all corners of our community.

Father Cao was born in Saigon, Vietnam a couple years prior to the Communist occupation. He, alongside his ten siblings, escaped Vietnam at a young age--destined for the United States to achieve greater opportunity and their American Dream. Filled with uncertainty but also faith, Father Cao and his family were among the countless thousands of Vietnamese refugees who fled on small rickety fishing boats to escape the turmoil of war, religious persecution, and uncertainty.

Throughout the years, the Vietnamese community eventually found a home in Orange County, where Father Cao and his family eventually settled to lay the roots for their forever home. Bound together by the hardships they experienced, Father Cao and his family built a safe haven in a small pocket of central Orange County, now better known as Little Saigon. This community, which harbors the largest Vietnamese diaspora outside of Vietnam, is bonded by the trials and tribulations they faced, and they continue to be an integral part of why Orange County is home to the largest Vietnamese community outside of Vietnam.

Father Cao used the promise of the American dream to further pursue an education here in the States. Father Cao proudly obtained his bachelor's degree, having later been selected to attend the American College and the Catholic University of Louvain, Belgium, further enriching his studies.

Father Cao continues to embolden his local community and those around him through his spiritual teachings, where he is now Pastor for St. Anthony Mary Claret Catholic Church here in my hometown of Anaheim, California. Father Cao represents the best of America, using this country as an opportunity to rebuild, educate, and inspire himself and those around him. We thank him for his influence and endless service to all of us here in Orange County.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Consul of Mexico, Maxaira Baltazar, for her 20 years of leadership and experience in consular affairs and bilateral relations.

Maxaira first began her career in Del Rio, Texas, where served as Consul for Protection and Legal Affairs, later being assigned to serve as Consul of Mexico for the Mexican Embassy in the Czech Republic.

Upon her return to the United States in 2015, Maxaira completed a specialization in U.S. Legal Studies at The University of New Mexico's School of Law. Always striving for more, she went on to collaborate with the Federal Public Defender's Office and the criminal, family, and child legal divisions of New Mexico's Second Judicial District Court.

As part of her specialization, she went on to develop guidelines for ways to assist nationals in child custody-related matters.

Throughout her career, Maxaira has served the U.S. Department of State, where she took part in a U.S.-Mexico Consular Exchange program dedicated to providing international assistance for Mexican nationals during the tumultuous suspension of travel period caused by the COVID- 19 pandemic, drafting guidance for Mexican missions abroad during times of crisis.

Most recently, Maxaira has served as Counselor for House Affairs in the Congressional Relations Office at the Mexican Embassy in the U.S. Now, Maxaira has assumed her current post as Consul of Mexico in Santa Ana, serving the Mexican-American communities in my home District and beyond.

I ask my colleagues to join me in commending Maxaira for her 20 years of dedicated leadership and experience. We thank Maxaira for all that she does to protect, inform, and inspire our Nation's Mexican-American communities.

Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to congratulate my good friend Michael Hunn on his retirement from CalOptima Health as its CEO. Throughout his time at CalOptima, Michael expanded Medi-Cal services and increased community investment initiatives for our working families throughout Orange County.

As CEO, Michael followed through with his commitment to supporting our most vulnerable populations by creating a safety net so they could receive the healthcare services that they deserve.

Because of Michael's efforts, Orange County today is healthier, stronger, and more resilient than ever before.

Mr. Speaker, I ask all of you to join me in congratulating Michael for his accomplishments and innovative leadership.

Recognizing Bill Thompson of Orange County

Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to recognize Orange County resident Bill Thompson for his generous contributions and support of Lestonnac Free Clinic.

For years, Bill has worked with Lestonnac to provide critical healthcare for uninsured communities throughout southern California. With Bill's help and the help of other generous volunteers, Lestonnac has executed on its clear vision, expanding healthcare so that nobody goes without.

Just last year, Bill worked with Lestonnac to open the Nation's first dedicated free surgery clinic, a groundbreaking initiative to provide life-changing procedures to veterans and others, no questions asked.

Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in thanking Bill for his commitment to helping our neighbors in need.

Celebrating Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva

Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to celebrate Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva's 12-year career in the California State Assembly.

Throughout her time representing north Orange County, she has led with vigor and determination and has set the standard for what it means to truly be a public servant. She supported our veterans, expanded affordable housing options, and secured millions of dollars for our working families here in Orange County.

As she marks the close of a 12-year career in the California Legislature, Sharon will be leaving a legacy of hard work, partnership, and accomplishment that have strengthened our communities.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues today to join me in honoring Sharon Quirk-Silva's lasting impact on our communities. I thank Madam Quirk- Lady.

Recognizing Dr. Ana Nogales

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Ana Nogales and her 30 years of leadership and service with Casa de la Familia.

In 1996, Dr. Nogales founded Casa de la Familia with a vision of helping individuals heal their wounds of psychological trauma. Since then, Dr. Nogales and Casa de la Familia have followed through on that vision.

From mental health services to stigma reduction, their work has impacted the lives of many here in California and Orange County.

Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Dr. Nogales and Casa de la Familia for 30 years of very important and critical work. We wish them another 30 years of success in Orange County.

I congratulate and thank Dr. Ana Nogales and wish her a happy 30.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight Dukku Lee.

Mr. Lee is retiring from his position as general manager of Anaheim Public Utilities, where he oversaw the electric and water utilities for over 350,000 residents, 15,000 businesses, and 25 million visitors annually.

In his 33 years in the industry, Mr. Lee has guided major investments in Anaheim in groundwater treatment, underground power lines, new high- voltage substations, renewable resources, and the new Sustainability Education Center.

Mr. Lee has made an immense improvement to the city of Anaheim, and I am proud to work with him and to see all of his accomplishments.

Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Dukku Lee and his 33 years of work for the good city of Anaheim.

I congratulate Mr. Lee, and I look forward to continuing to work with him in his next career.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a truly remarkable woman on her 90th birthday--Irma Sarmiento.

Irma Sarmiento was born on August 29, 1935, in La Paz, Bolivia. She has devoted nine decades to family, entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and service.

As a successful business owner, she became a source of inspiration and support for many single mothers striving for financial independence and homeownership.

Her commitment to her heritage and community is equally inspiring. She founded a Bolivian folkloric dance troupe and supported improvements to schools, a hospital, soccer fields, and the town square in Quime, Bolivia. Since 1986, she has also sponsored the Downtown Santa Ana Christmas Food and Toy Giveaway, touching the lives of thousands of local children and families.

Together with her husband, Vicente Sarmiento, she raised three children--Daisy, Vicki, and Vicente--with a strong emphasis on education and opportunity. Today, she is blessed with six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

At 90, her greatest legacy is the countless lives she has touched through love, hard work, generosity, and service. Today, we celebrate her extraordinary life and wish her a very happy 90th birthday.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County in celebration of being named the Delhi Center's 2026 Heroe de la Comunidad.

For decades, Second Harvest has stood as a beacon of compassion, ensuring that nutritious food reaches children, families, seniors, and individuals facing food insecurity throughout Orange County.

Their work reflects a profound belief that a strong community is one in which neighbors care for one another and no family is left behind.

Every meal provided, every family supported, and every partnership strengthened represents an investment in the health, dignity, and future of our community.

Second Harvest embodies the heart and spirit of the Delhi Center's Zocalo dinner--a celebration of culture, connection, community, and service.

With deepest gratitude, we honor Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County for its extraordinary service and enduring commitment to the well-being of our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of my very good friend, Chief John Welter, the 32nd police chief of my hometown, the city of Anaheim, California.

Chief Welter made many contributions to the good people of Anaheim, including the creation of the department's first-ever chief advisory council. He also established the John Welter Family Justice Center to help those in need in the city of Anaheim.

I also extend my deepest condolences to his spouse, Terri, and the whole Welter family in this very difficult time.

I ask my colleagues today to join me in honoring John Welter's legacy of leadership, service, and his commitment to protecting the city of Anaheim that we call home.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize ``El Comandante'' Andres Hernandez for his extraordinary achievements as a community leader and band instructor for the youth of Santa Ana, California.

Andres's story began in the Mexican state of Morelos, in the city of Zapatec. At just 8 years old, Andres became a flag bearer for his school, where he would later work his way up to joining the esteemed Benito Juarez High School marching band, and become commander or orders or ``El Comandante de Ordenes'' for a neighboring school in the same municipality.

Andres's hard work and determination paid off, laying the foundation for him to become a marching band instructor for young folks. In 1998, Andres marked his formal beginnings as an instructor, where he taught the children of Cuahetomoc, Juan Jacobo Rousseau, and Benito Juarez respectively. Always striving for more, Andres formed the first marching band of the municipal police and the first ``Banda De Guerra'' for the municipality of Juarez Morelos.

In June of 2009, Andres founded his own marching band in my home district, ``Banda de Guerra Osos de California''. This Santa Ana band prides itself on fostering cultural appreciation for the next generations of Mexican and Hispanic Americans. Under his leadership as Comandante, Banda de Guerra Osos has participated in various civic events across the Golden State, receiving well-deserved recognitions from the City of Santa Ana, Anaheim, and even countries across Latino- America. Andres's diligent work as a community leader caught my own eye, leading me to congressionally recognize him for his accomplishments.

I ask my colleagues to join me in commending Comandante Andres for his exemplary leadership and mentorship for the next generations. Our community thanks Comandante Andres for leading by example.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Jovana Karnovic--a distinguished researcher whose life and work shaped the academic communities that have had the esteemed privilege of working with her. Jovana strived to make the world we live in a fairer and better place, dedicating her 35 years of life to continuous work, learning, and diligent research. Beyond Jovana's impressive professional and academic achievements, she was someone you could rely on. Jovana was not only a dedicated academic and researcher, but a loving partner, colleague, and friend to all those whom she left an impact on.

At the age of 18, Jovana left her life in Northern Serbia and moved to the United States for a chance to achieve her American Dream. Jovana went on to attend Fullerton College, where she not only left a lasting presence on those around her but chose to thrive academically. Jovana left such an impact that, in 2012, she was named the college's top speaker and honored with a commemorative plaque in recognition of her lasting achievements. Jovana graduated from Fullerton college with honors.

Following her graduation from Fullerton College, Jovana continued to fulfill her desire to learn, earning her BS, MS, and PHD degrees respectively. Soon after, Jovana founded `Reshaping Work', where she connected thousands of professionals and established 100+ partnerships around the globe. Jovana's legacy continues in the work and achievements that she poured her heart into, and the countless lives that she has touched. Jovana will be remembered as a shining light, who made it

her mission to make those around her feel seen, uplifted, and inspired.

Jovana's memory will live with us all. We thank her for a life filled with compassion, a willingness to learn, and dedication for helping those around her.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the contributions of Monica Garcia to California's 46th Congressional District.

Monica Garcia is a native of the 46th Congressional District and a former team member of our Congressional District Office. Monica attended Valencia High School and graduated from Humboldt State University.

Monica began her federal work with the Office of Congressman Lou Correa in February of 2022. She joined as a Congressional Caseworker overseeing and maintaining relationships with the federal agencies including the Social Security Administration, Internal Revenue Service, Postal Service, Small Business Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, and Department of Education. Through her diligent work and commitment to constituents she oversaw the return of $20.4 million back to the district and directly to constituents and small businesses.

Monica also oversaw the citizenship fair events that provided the opportunity for constituents to receive guidance on filing out the N- 400 through the assistance of community volunteers and organizations. She maintained and developed strategic partnerships with community organizations such as Catholic Charities, Public Law Center, and the Council on American-Islamic Relations to make these citizenship fairs a reality in the district.

Monica married her college sweetheart Gabriel Viramontes on October 20, 2025 in Las Vegas. Monica is moving on to work with the Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District. I wish her the best of luck and success on her next venture.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate Mr. Jaime Enrique Michel Velasco, and the Dulces de la Rosa company for their achievement of creating the world's largest mazapan. This sweet treat, which is made from ground peanuts and icing sugar, is widely enjoyed throughout Mexico and Latin America and traces its origins back to 16th Century Spain.

Despite setting the previous Guinness World Record in 2018 in Guadalajara, Mexico, the Dulces de la Rosa team traveled to California aiming to make history once more. On October 25, 2024, 25 chefs arrived in the City of Santa Ana and proceeded to surpass the previous record. In just six hours, Dulces de la Rosa produced a mazapan that weighed over 23,000 pounds, and measured 11.8 feet in diameter and 5.2 feet tall. This event not only served as a momentous achievement for Dulces de la Rosa and their President, Mr. Velasco, but also as a tribute to the vibrant Mexican culture within the United States.

Dulces de la Rosa partnered with ``Los 32 por Mexico y mas,'' a nonprofit dedicated to the preservation of Mexican art, culture, and traditions. This record-setting event acted as a celebration of the culture that unites many of the people in my district and Southern California. It brought together influential Mexican-American leaders, local dignitaries, Mexican officials, and most importantly the local community. Over the duration of the event, thousands of people gathered at Plaza de Las Banderas in Santa Ana to witness this achievement. I am proud that my district had the honor of hosting this event. Congratulations once again to Mr. Velasco and the Dulces de la Rosa company for achieving this historic milestone.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Alan Slater, whose 35 years of leadership have strengthened the Orange County Superior Court and promoted justice.

As superior court executive officer, Alan prioritized the well-being of those who are too often overlooked by the justice system.

Under his direction, partnerships with community groups and leaders created a bona fide safety net of legal aid and social services, ensuring all residents were able to access due process.

As a visionary in court technology, Alan pioneered statewide models that expanded access to restraining orders, improved officer safety, and advanced transparency through open access to court records.

His service reflects a deep commitment to public accountability and through good service to all people.

Today, I ask my colleagues to reflect on how local leaders like Alan Slater strengthen our institutions and protect the rights of those who are most in need.

Mr. Speaker, I thank Alan for his work.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Jerry Zomorodian and his late wife, Rebecca, Orange County residents who were deeply involved in our community.

Jerry was born in Iran and later came to the United States in 1983 where he met Rebecca. They were married for 43 years before her passing in 2025. Through hard work, the two of them built a life together, owning and operating a small Persian restaurant. They were successful while staying true to their values.

Jerry is proud to be an American. Rebecca was a devoted wife, loving mother, advocate for breast cancer awareness, and a philanthropist who helped her community.

Rebecca courageously fought cancer for many years before it ultimately took her life. She was deeply involved in her community and will be missed by her family, friends, and all of us.

Today, I ask my colleagues to recognize the life and legacy of Rebecca Zomorodian and honor the way she and Jerry helped our community.