Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the late James Franklin Mobley whose life exemplified honorable service and remarkable accomplishment.

James was born on June 11, 1948, in Gainesville, Florida, to Wilbur and Evelyn Mobley. In 1950, his family relocated to California, where he later graduated from Sanger High School in 1966.

Dedicated to a life of service, James served in the Vietnam War as part of the 327th Infantry, 101st Airborne, from January 1970 to March 1971. He later documented his experiences in his book, Betrayal: Never Waste a Soldier.

In 1973, he married Laurel Ann Miller, and together they had two children, Christopher and Daniel.

James pursued a career in politics, working first for California State Senator George Zenovich and later for Congressman Richard Lehman, his childhood best friend. He went on

to serve Fresno County's IT Services Department for 21 years before retiring in 2009.

An avid skier and pilot, James embraced life with passion. In retirement, he remained active by caring for his grandson, Sebastian, and staying connected with friends and fellow veterans.

He is survived by his son Christopher and daughter-in-law Cassiane; his son Daniel; his grandchildren Evelyn and Sebastian; his sister Jacqueline and brother-in-law Alan Schwartzman; his nephew Justin Schwartzman; his niece Marisa Schwartzman; and his nephew Michael Mobley.

Mr. Speaker, I invite my esteemed colleagues to join me in honoring the memory of James Franklin Mobley. Let us celebrate his life and recognize his invaluable contributions to our community and Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the legacy, and dedicated public service of Reynaud LaVarnce Wallace, a pillar of the Fresno community. Born on October 18, 1952, in Montgomery, Alabama, Reynaud was the eldest of six children born to Carl Phillip and Ernestine Jackson Wallace.

In 1957, the Wallace family embarked on a journey westward, leaving Montgomery with their sons Reynaud and Rodney. The family eventually settled in the Nickerson Gardens Housing Project in Watts, Los Angeles, after stops in San Diego and San Francisco. There, young Reynaud earned the affectionate nickname ``Silver'', owing to a silver crown that adorned a chipped front tooth--an incident the precise details of which remain unconfirmed, as noted by his ever-loyal brother.

Following the tumult of the 1965 Watts Riots, the Wallace family relocated to Altadena, California, where Reynaud attended Eliot Junior High School and John Muir High School. A bright and energetic student, Reynaud immersed himself in both academic and extracurricular pursuits, most notably as a member of the John Muir Cadet Corps, the precursor to the school's ROTC program. He graduated in June 1970 and pursued his passion for justice and community service by studying Police Science in college.

In 1975, Reynaud married the love of his life, Deborah Ann Drayton. He went on to serve as Security Manager for Zody's Department Store in Pasadena and, in 1979, was entrusted with the leadership of the security team opening a new Zody's location in Fresno, California. It was in Fresno that the couple would welcome their daughter Jasmine in 1987.

Reynaud, or ``Rey'' as he came to be known, joined the Fresno Police Department in December 1981, beginning a storied and impactful career in public service that spanned nearly three decades. His legacy is perhaps best encapsulated in his founding of the Fresno Police Activities League (PAL) in 1992--an initiative that grew to include 30 programs and served more than 3,500 youth annually, helping to build trust and hope in the community he so dearly loved.

His accolades and achievements are too numerous to list in full, but among them are the Life Saving Medal of Valor (1985), Fresno Human Relations Commission Award (2003), NAACP Image Awards (1993 and 2005), African American Heritage Award (2008), and the Risk Taker and Dream Maker Award. He served as President of the Fresno Black Police Officers Association, was appointed to the California State Commission on Juvenile Justice, and offered his guidance at both the state and national levels of PAL.

Despite the seriousness of his work, Rey's personality left an indelible mark. Known affectionately as ``Chocolate Thunder'', he was a force of nature--compassionate, commanding, and charismatic--whose legend, like his nickname, was built on stories his brother, in good humor, will neither confirm nor deny.

Mr. Speaker, I invite my esteemed colleagues to join me in honoring the legacy of Reynaud LaVarnce Wallace who embodied the spirit of public service, community empowerment, and family devotion.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the legacy of Mr. Lue N. Yang, an extraordinary advocate, organizer, teacher, and public figure.

Born on April 10, 1955, in Xieng Khouang, Laos, Mr. Yang has been a pillar for the Hmong community. At the age of 14, he served with the Hmong Special Guerrilla Unit (SGU) during Vietnam. After serving with the SGU, Mr. Yang moved to Vientiane to continue his education. Upon graduating, he became a Peace Officer for the US Embassy from 1972 to 1975. Shortly after, Mr. Yang fled to Thailand as many Hmong refugees did at the end of the Vietnam War.

A year later in Hawaii, he began to work with the non-profit: Vietnamese Indochinese Volunteer Agency (VIVA) and the Department of Labor as an agent. A few years later, Mr. Yang moved to Des Moines, Iowa and worked for Volunteer Enrichment Services. In 1991, he moved to Fresno and worked briefly with the Lao Family Community of Fresno.

In 1992, Mr. Yang began his work at the Fresno Center for New Americans, a local non-profit that serves the Southeast Asian Community. Later that year he served as the Executive Director for FCNA from 1992 to 2017. Under Mr. Yang's leadership, FCNA managed to grow fourteen programs with an annual budget of $6.8 million and a team of 38. As an Executive Director, he was seen as a role model and mentor by many young Hmong professionals at FCNA, who continued to push for progress for the Hmong community.

Furthermore, during Mr. Yang's tenure at FCNA he was able to establish several key sustainable programs. The Living Well was the first Hmong mental health program in the state that provided culturally competent mental health services. Mr. Yang also drafted an Adult Day Health Care program that provided essential support for senior community members. These two programs are still in operation today and are seen as the pillars of FCNA's work.

Mr. Yang has been an advocate for refugees and immigrants for 41 years. He has worked collaboratively with non-profits, community leaders, elected officials, and educational institutions to address the disparities, challenges, and stigma that the Southeast Asian communities face. Mr. Yang's work via his community partnerships and advocacy resulted in the hiring of the first Hmong detective in the Fresno Police Department, and Hmong representation in administration and other leadership positions within the Fresno Unified School District.

He was also instrumental in helping Hmong refugees who were attending school, manage their transition. Mr. Yang helped secure funding for a group that went to Wat Tham Krabok, Thailand, the location of the last recognized Hmong refugee group. After assessing different challenges unique to the Hmong refugee population, including access to education, the group published its findings to the City and County of Fresno, as well as the State Refugee Office. This was what culminated with the creation of the New American School, which assisted Hmong student refugees as they transitioned into mainstream school.

The work of Mr. Yang has given the Hmong community immense support over the years and without this work many of these accomplishments wouldn't have been possible.

Mr. Speaker, I invite my esteemed colleagues to join me in honoring the legacy of Lue N. Yang. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Lorraine Salazar a third-generation partner of Sal's Mexican Restaurants, a cherished institution and ``A Valley Tradition Since 1942.'' Her family's entrepreneurial spirit has been a beacon of perseverance and success in our community.

From an early age, Lorraine embraced the values of hard work and dedication, learning restaurant operations alongside her parents and grandparents. She contributed in every way possible, from preparing her grandmother's signature recipes to working the cook line to serve guests.

Understanding the importance of education, her father encouraged Lorraine to pursue her studies. She earned her Bachelors Degree from UCLA in 1982 and returned in 1991 to manage the family business. Lorraine's passion for Mexican culinary heritage has led her to travel extensively, studying regional specialties from renowned chefs. These experiences have influenced the seasonal menu items offered at Sal's.

Sal's Mexican Restaurants received the 2001 California Small Business Award and multiple ``Best of the Valley'' and ``People's Choice'' awards. Lorraine's impact reaches well beyond her restaurant. In recognition of her dedication, she was awarded the 2017 California Faces of Diversity honor by the California Restaurant Association. Additionally, in 2022, the Marjaree Mason Center recognized her as one of the ``Top Ten Professional Women.''

Lorraine has also been a distinguished public servant. In 2005, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger appointed her to The California Partnership for the San Joaquin Valley, where she served as co-convener of its Higher Education and Workforce Development Group. In 2015, Lorraine served as the Chairwoman for the Greater Fresno Area Chamber of Commerce.

Currently, Lorraine serves on the California Office of Small Business Advocate's Entrepreneurship and Economic Mobility Task Force and has been a member of the California State University, Fresno Foundation Board of Governors since 2017. She has dedicated over 28 years to the California and Fresno Restaurant Associations and served as Chairperson of the California Restaurant Association State Board.

Today, celebrating 83 years in business in 2024, Sal's Mexican Restaurants employ over 150 dedicated team members across three locations. The next generation, including Lorraine's son Aaron and her brother Karl's children--sons Sal and Roman and daughter Karly--are also continuing the family legacy.

Beyond her professional and civic achievements, Lorraine finds joy in culinary and wine travel, beachside relaxation, concerts, movies, and professional sports. Above all, she cherishes time spent with her husband Tom, son Aaron, and beloved grandsons, Ethan, Tyler, and Landon.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Lorraine Salazar for her incredible contributions to the culinary industry, small business community, and public service. Her dedication is an inspiration, and her legacy will continue to enrich our community for generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, I strongly oppose this rule that enables a reckless Republican budget resolution to go forward. Let me tell you why.

Republicans claim to be lowering costs, but their plan, in my view, does just the opposite.

Let me bring it all home. In California's 21st Congressional District which I have the honor and privilege to represent, the wonderful people in the San Joaquin Valley, 456,532 people could lose their Medicaid under this rule and budget resolution.

Under this rule and resolution, 131,000 people could lose their SNAP benefits.

Over 25,000 people could lose coverage through the Affordable Health Care Act. We have made remarkable progress as a result of the Affordable Health Care Act, reducing the number of people without insurance in our constituency to less than 10 percent. That would be changed.

There would be $3 million in energy and conservation funds that would be withheld from farmers in my district.

If you want to put the American people first, we must reject this debacle and begin on a real bipartisan basis to pass a budget that fits the American people.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Kathy Mahan for her dedicated service to the people of the Central Valley and to congratulate her on appointment as the Central California Regional Director with U.S. Senator Adam B. Schiff.

Kathy earned her bachelor's degree in Government-Journalism from California State University, Sacramento, in 1994. In July of 2000, she started her career in Journalism working at the Fresno Bee. She served in many roles, which included Digital Editor, Audience Editor, Feature's Editor, Metro Editor, and Assistant Metro Editor. She went on to complete her master's degree in Organizational Leadership from Fresno Pacific University in 2012. For over 17 years, she dedicated her life to a career in Journalism at the Fresno Bee, leaving an undeniable mark on the company and community.

In October of 2017, Kathy assumed the role of District Director for my 16th Congressional District, serving the residents of the Central Valley. She played a pivotal role in shaping the office's outreach and operations. In this position, she was responsible for managing all district-level activities, including coordinating communication efforts, overseeing constituents' services, and leading a team dedicated to addressing the needs of the local community.

After serving as District Director for two years, Kathy became Deputy Chief of Staff for Congressman Jim Costa's office in January of 2019. As Deputy Chief of Staff, she served as an adviser as we transitioned to my new district, CA-21. Kathy's insight was invaluable in helping to shape priorities and positions on issues affecting Central California. Kathy's strong leadership and commitment to public service made her an indispensable figure in the office, and her dedication to the community left a lasting impact on everyone she worked with.

Kathy demonstrated the qualities of a strong leader, always making it a priority to ensure the success and development of all congressional staffers under her guidance. With her husband, Kevin Mahan, by her side, she continues to uplift the ones around her and put the community above her needs.

I invite everyone to join me in celebrating the remarkable career of my former District Director and Deputy Chief of Staff, Kathy Mahan. Her dedication and strong work ethic exemplify the true spirit of public service. Seven years ago, Kathy began her career serving the Valley and she continues her commitment to public service in the U.S. Senate.

Mr Speaker, I invite my esteemed colleagues to join me in honoring the career of Kathy Mahan. May her work ethic, vast knowledge and unwavering dedication continue to inspire us all in our mission to serve the people of the Central Valley. Kathy's character and passion stand as a beacon of inspiration for many.

Mr. Chair, I thank the ranking member and the chair for this effort on the legislation.

Over the last 2 weeks, we have seen the devastation that the Los Angeles fires have caused: the lives, the housing, and the commercial structures that have been lost that in some cases will never be replaced.

More than 40,000 acres have burned, the equivalent to over half of Washington, D.C. Lives are at stake, and that is why we need to pass the Fix Our Forests Act.

We know that climate change is having its effect. This bill will better help us maintain our forests by prioritizing the treatment of hazardous fuels in fire-prone areas and expanding wildfire resilience. We also need to recognize that fire management requires different strategies for different geographies.

I am also pleased that my bill, the Headwaters Protection Act, is a part of this package. The bill will strengthen public and private partnerships in forestry and watershed management. Mr. Chair, we will have to find bipartisan additional funding sources.

Our Nation's forests are critically overgrown. We need to have better management. That is clear. The commonsense changes are necessary to prevent wildfires for generations to come, but let's be clear. Much more needs to be done.

We salute the brave firefighters and first responders who are acting today on a 24/7 basis.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for organizing this Special Order, appropriately so, because this is the conclusion of the inauguration efforts of this week.

On January 6, 2021, I expressed numerous times to my constituents and to my colleagues that it was the saddest day of the 20 years that I have had the privilege and honor to serve in the Congress. That day the world watched as a violent mob of insurrectionists breached the Capitol, attacked the police viciously, and tried to overturn a fair and free election.

I was one of 25 Members trapped in the House gallery for 40 minutes as we observed the counting of the ballots as part of our responsibility every 4 years. Let me just say this was not a peaceful protest, as some have tried to portray it, including President Trump and Speaker Johnson.

Let me repeat this. The photos and the videos that we have all seen over the last 4 years make it very clear. This was no lovefest. It was not a peaceful protest. It was a violent insurrection attempt to overthrow a fair and free election. I feel very strongly about this, having been trapped up in that gallery with my colleagues here for 40 minutes.

On that day I came to the House Chamber with my colleagues to certify the 2020 Presidential election which President Joe Biden had won overwhelmingly. Four years later, this week, my colleagues and I are speaking out to ensure that no one rewrites history with a false narrative which we see being attempted to take place.

Just a handful of brave Capitol Police Officers up in that gallery that day stood between us and the violent mob that had already breached the Senate Chamber and now were trying to force their way in here to the people's House.

I took this photograph when I was crouched down there with my gas mask because of the attempt of this violent insurrectionist group of people. I remember crouching on the floor with my colleagues, thinking how could this be happening. I thought it was surreal and unbelievable that it would happen in the United States of America, the oldest democracy in the world.

As a student of American history, I thought to myself that as strong and as resilient as our democracy and our country has been historically during wars and depressions, it was a stark reminder to me, while we were up there wondering what our fate might be, how fragile our democracy can be.

This week President Trump pardoned over 1,500 perpetrators convicted for assaulting police officers and, as was noted by some of my colleagues here this afternoon, some who lost their lives. These are some of the folks, these Proud Boys, that were trying to break into the Chamber. The police had them on the ground. They had their hands bound.

We finally got out of this Chamber and walked out. As we were being escorted to a safe place, we saw people trying to break in to get us, to get the Speaker, to hang the Vice President at the direction of President Trump. They were trying to overthrow the results of the 2020 elections.

I do not believe these pardons that took place here this week were justified, and I think the majority of Americans don't believe they were either. We cannot allow history to be rewritten. The facts are the facts. The documentation, the hearings, and the videos are proof of what happened that day.

Four years ago those violent insurrectionists chose a different path at President Trump's direction. They shattered the sacred tradition of a peaceful transfer of power which has been the cornerstone of our democracy, dating back to our first President, George Washington.

Let's talk about this week. While I didn't agree with the outcome of last year's election, I respected it. That is the essence of a democracy. This Monday, at the inauguration, we had a peaceful transfer of power led by President Biden and the other former Presidents. That is the way it is supposed to be. It wasn't that way 4 years ago. No, it wasn't that way 4 years ago.

Let me just say something, and I wish more of my Republican colleagues had the profiles in courage that I think is required. Democrats are not election deniers. We may not have liked the results of last year's election, but we accepted them. We cannot allow history to be rewritten nor can we forget the sacrifices of the brave Capitol Police who risked everything to protect our democracy.

The Capitol Police stood on the front lines, giving their all to defend the ideals that we hold dear. They should be appropriately honored with more than simply a sign on our doors. We owe it to their families and to our constituents to ensure that the truth remains clear that justice is served and that we never let those who sought to tear us apart rewrite the story on January 6, 2021.

Mr. Speaker, let me close by expressing the simple, plain truth. As a young boy, my mother told me: The truth is the truth. America is a great country. Some of us like to say it is the greatest country in the world because we honor the truth. That is why we are here today. That is why this Special Order is important. That is why I want to thank my colleagues for speaking out. America is a great country because we honor and respect the truth.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to talk about Americans who are hurting, who have been suffering over the last 10 days as a result of the fires that have occurred in Los Angeles and south coast basin.

What we are talking about is the moral imperative of what America has always done to help the American people when they are in need, whether it is hurricanes, tornadoes, flooding, earthquakes, fires, or natural disasters of every kind you can imagine.

In the wildfires that have ravaged Los Angeles and south coast basin, over 40,000 acres have burned, 12,000 buildings have been destroyed, and 24 lives and counting have been lost. There certainly will be more. That is more than 30,000 football fields. Think about it.

The pain, the suffering, the social, and the economic losses--from homes to businesses to churches and synagogues--have changed people's way of life.

I am appalled to hear that some of my Republican friends are openly discussing conditioning wildfire relief upon their partisan agendas. That is wrong. We should not forget that over $120 million of hurricane relief was provided to the State of Louisiana when they needed it over the last 20 years. Humanity must always take precedence over partisanship.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the legacy of the Honorable Betty Dawson. Born to Robert and Jane Dawson in Albert Lea, Minnesota. Betty lived a full and vibrant life, deeply rooted in the land and community that shaped her.

Raised in Santa Rosa, Betty moved to San Francisco and attended City College of San Francisco where she met Robert Haden, who she married in 1973. After graduating from San Francisco State in 1975, she attended Hastings College of Law and graduated in 1978 as second in her class, was a member of the Law Review and a recipient of the prestigious Order of the Coif.

She continued to teach legal research and writing at Stanford Law School which led to her becoming a research attorney for Joseph Grodin at the 1st District Court of Appeal. Shortly after 1980, Betty and Robert moved to Merced where they had their two daughters Emily and Margaret.

Both Betty and Robert worked together for Robert's father, Bob Haden, at the firm Haden, Dawson & Haden. Betty specialized in criminal law which included death penalty appeals, happily raised her children and was an active member of the Merced community.

Following 1990, Betty had decided to pursue the dream of becoming a Judge. At first, she was appointed as the Traffic Referee and then eventually became a Court Commissioner. Her accomplishments led to her being elevated to the Merced County Superior Court and became the Presiding Judge by 2002. Leading into 2003, she was appointed as Associate Justice of the 5th District of Court of Appeals.

In 2010, Betty was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease and made the difficult decision to retire to prevent the risk of not being able to perform to her own high standards and preserve her love for the law.

Betty is survived by her husband of 51 years, Robert, her daughter, Emily and Emily's husband Oscar Sandoval, her granddaughter Delilah; as well as her daughter Margaret and Margaret's husband, Greg Stalfa and granddaughters June and Cecilia. Betty's brother Robert, sister-in-law Linda, nephew Joren and Joren's wife Joascha along with their son Swae, and all of Adelaide, Australia survive her.

She is also survived by her sisters-in-law Harriet, Catharine and Read. Brothers-in-law Ron and George, their children Sarah, John, Anthony, Andrew, George and Robert, and their children Lucas, Eva, Kayle, Antone, Gia, Callahan, Finnley and Georgie.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the legacy of Robert William ``Bill'' Tracy. Born on October 16, 1942, to Tilton and Kathryn Tracy. Bill lived a full and vibrant life, deeply rooted in the land and community that shaped him.

Raised on the family ranch, Bill graduated from Wasco High School in 1960 and pursued higher education at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, where his passion for agriculture began to take shape. In 1968, he was activated into the United States Army Reserve, later returning to the family ranch, where he continued his work as a fourth-generation farmer. Tracy Ranch, a multi-generational farming and cattle operation established in 1862, was a central part of Bill's life, and he dedicated much of his career to strengthening the agricultural community.

Bill was an active and respected member of the farming industry, serving on numerous boards and participating in leadership programs such as the California Ag Leadership Program and the National Cotton Council ``Cotton Leadership Program'' sponsored by DuPont. These experiences helped shape his expertise in agriculture policy.

In 1987, Bill was appointed Undersecretary of the California Department of Food and Agriculture under Governor George Deukmejian. Known for his trademark cowboy boots and hat, Bill worked tirelessly as an advocate for California's farming community. His tenure in state government gave him a unique perspective on policy, and he became a trusted voice in agricultural circles.

Outside of his career, Bill was a passionate historian with a special interest in the Civil War and both World Wars. He formed lifelong friendships with fellow history enthusiasts Jack Bell and John Gibson, who became a cherished part of his journey.

Bill's personal life was equally fulfilling. He and his wife, Susie, shared 50 years of marriage. Together, they explored all seven continents, often accompanied by friends Dale and Carol, and most recently by John and Donna.

As a grandfather, Bill found immense joy in his grandchildren's lives. He could always be found at their sports games, dance recitals, and piano performances, providing support and encouragement at every turn. His love for his grandchildren was evident, and he shared countless memories with them.

Bill is survived by his wife, Susie; children, Mark Tracy (Allison), Todd Tracy (Annette), Rob Tracy (Kathy), and Stephanie O'Callaghan (Kevin); and eight grandchildren: Haylee, Kathryn, Grace, Trent, Maggie, Izzy, Clarisse, and Lilly. He is also survived by his brothers, John Tracy (Donna) and David Tracy (Jerry), as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Mr Speaker, I invite my esteemed colleagues to join me in honoring the legacy of Robert William ``Bill'' Tracy. Bill lived with purpose and passion, leaving a legacy that will continue to inspire his family, community, and the agricultural world for generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an extraordinary milestone: the 50th anniversary of the UCSF Fresno Emergency Medicine Residency Program.

Fifty years ago, visionary physicians recognized the urgent need for dedicated emergency care. They established one of the first Emergency Medicine residency programs in the United States, transforming the landscape of medical training and emergency response. As Dr. James Comes aptly noted, ``They had the vision to start an Emergency Medicine program here, and it has made all the difference in the world for the community.

The UCSF Fresno Emergency Medicine residency program is now regarded as one of the most sought-after programs in the country, attracting top medical school graduates. Residents train at Community Regional Medical Center, one of California's busiest emergency departments, handling upwards of 350 patients a day. This high-volume environment equips residents with the skills necessary to excel in their future careers.

Over the past five decades, the program has pioneered numerous innovations, including the Parkmedic program, which allows residents to serve as EMS directors in national parks, and the establishment of the Wilderness Medicine Fellowship--only the fourth of its kind in the Nation. These initiatives exemplify the program's commitment to advancing emergency medicine not just locally, but nationally.

In addition to its educational achievements, the program has made significant contributions to emergency medical services in Fresno County. Dr. Gene Kallsen, a former chief of the Department of Emergency Medicine, was instrumental in reforming ambulance services, ensuring faster response times and better patient care. His legacy, and that of many others, continues to shape the future of emergency care in our region.

Today, the UCSF Fresno Emergency Medicine residency program stands as a model of excellence in medical education and emergency response. It has evolved into a fully staffed program, ensuring that residents receive comprehensive training in various subspecialties while providing critical care to our community.

As we celebrate this milestone, let us recognize the dedicated faculty, residents, and leaders who have contributed to the program's success. Their commitment to training skilled clinicians who serve diverse and vulnerable populations is a testament to the program's enduring impact.

Mr. Speaker, I invite my esteemed colleagues to join me in celebrating the UCSF Fresno Emergency Medicine residency program and its invaluable contributions to our community and to the field of emergency medicine.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the distinguished life and incomparable spirit of Donald ``Don'' Webster Duckering, an inspiration and beloved member of his community.

Born in New York, Donald was the son of Lynn and Mae Duckering. He, along with his brother Verle, was raised in Santa Cruz, California, where their father was a prominent architect. Donald excelled in athletics during his youth, particularly in tennis, snow skiing, golf, and polo. His passion for aviation led him to earn a pilot's license at the age of 16. During high school, Donald's mechanical skills, particularly his work on fast cars, captivated the attention of Hilda, who would later become his devoted wife. Together, they shared a lifelong love for British Triumph sports cars, even participating in the Pebble Beach Sports Car Rallies with their sons, Dale and Lee.

Donald pursued higher education at the University of Washington, where he was an active member of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity. He graduated with a bachelor of arts in transportation engineering and was commissioned as an ensign through the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) program. A pivotal moment in Donald's life was his appointment to naval flight school in Pensacola, Florida, where he earned his wings as a naval aviator. After advanced training in Hutchinson, Kansas, Donald served as a patrol plane pilot commander, leading missions across various global locations.

A highlight of Donald's distinguished career was his selection to attend the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California, where he earned a bachelor of science in meteorology. He subsequently served as chief meteorologist aboard the USS Oriskany, playing a key role in numerous missions in the Middle East.

In 1963, Donald retired from the Navy as a lieutenant commander and transitioned to a successful career with Atmospherics Incorporated in Fresno, California. Over nearly four decades, he held significant roles as a meteorologist, chief pilot, and vice president.

Donald's personal life was marked by a loving and enduring marriage to his wife, Hilda, lasting 72 years. They treasured their friendships at the Sunnyside Swim & Racquet Club and later at the Fort Washington Golf & Country Club. Donald's passion for the outdoors led to memorable family camping trips, high Sierra backpacking adventures, and a successful venture into international fly tying. He also shared a special bond with his daughter Judith, racing sailboats

Donald is survived by his beloved wife Hilda; his children: Lee and his wife Debra, Dale and his wife Debbie, and daughter Judith and her husband Scott, seven grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and other close relatives. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lynn and Mae Duckering, his brother Verle, and other cherished family members.

In Don's passing, we celebrate a life that has left an indelible mark on the world and all who were fortunate enough to know him. His legacy will be remembered with respect and admiration by all who knew him.

Mr. Speaker, I invite my esteemed colleagues to join me in paying tribute to the memory of Donald Duckering, a true pioneer, and adventurer.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the legacy of Carmen Anthony Eanni, an extraordinary father, husband, attorney, and advocate.

Born on July 16, 1934, in Dover, New Jersey, Carmen was the sixth of seven children of Italian immigrants Serafino and Josephina Eanni. At the age of 12, he and his family moved from New Jersey to California, joining relatives in the Hanford area to take advantage of the Golden State's ideal climate.

Carmen graduated from Hanford High in 1952 and went on to play fullback for Fresno City College. It was there that he met the love of his life, Rose Marie. After a three-year engagement, they married in Fresno in 1957 following his service in the 82nd Airborne Division and 77th Special Forces Group as a Green Beret during the Korean war.

He continued his education at San Francisco State University, earning a bachelor's degree in political science, and later obtained his juris doctorate from UC Hastings College of Law in 1963. After law school, Carmen returned to Fresno, working for 18 months as a Deputy District Attorney before entering private practice in 1966. Two years later, he became a shareholder at the Fresno law firm Miles, Sears & Eanni, APC.

For 54 years, Carmen dedicated himself to trial law, specializing in personal injury, product liability, and professional negligence. He was a member of the California State Bar, served on the Disciplinary Review Department of the State Bar Court from 1979 to 1984, and was active in the Fresno County Bar Association, California Trial Lawyers Association (serving as President of the Fresno Chapter from 1969 to 1971 and as Chairman of the Recognition of Experience Committee from 1979 to 1980), and the American Bar Association.

In 1968, Carmen was instrumental in founding what would become Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central California, an organization that has positively impacted the lives of over 30,000 children across Fresno, Madera, Kings, and Tulare Counties. He also coached for the San Joaquin Memorial Catholic Youth Football Program, dedicating countless hours to mentoring young athletes and teaching them valuable life skills.

Carmen enjoyed golfing, exercising, cheering for Fresno State football, and tailgating with family and friends. Known for his vibrant sense of humor, he brought joy to those around him. He deeply cherished his faith community, lifelong friendships, family gatherings, and the delicious homemade Italian meals prepared by Rose Marie.

He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Rose Marie; daughter Nikki Helmer and her husband Jay; son John Eanni and his wife Kellie; grandsons Jonathan and Dylan Eanni; sister Anna Batti; in-laws; nieces; nephews; and many dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings: sisters Jennie Champi, Teresa Batti, and Mary Eanni, and brothers Alfonso and Joseph Eanni.

Mr. Speaker, I invite my esteemed colleagues to join me in honoring the legacy of Carmen Anthony Eanni. Carmen will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor The Fresno Interdenominational Refugee Ministries (FIRM) for its 30 years of impeccable service to the communities in search of safety and opportunity.

FIRM is a faith-based, nonprofit organization located in the Central Valley, dedicated to serving refugees and individuals seeking a fresh start and new opportunities.

Since its establishment in January 1994 through collaborations with various congregations, FIRM has assisted over 10,000 people from Southeast Asia, Africa, South America, and more than 22 other countries. Their involvement with Church World Service and commitment to refugee assistance began years before their official founding.

Today, FIRM supports over 60,000 residents in Fresno County, focusing on meeting their needs with a range of comprehensive programs in health, education, community building, and youth outreach. These initiatives provide essential resources and drive positive change, benefiting the community and future generations.

FIRM's exceptional service has been recognized with numerous awards, including the `Outstanding Performance in Community Economic Development and Revitalization,' `Outstanding Service and Leadership in the Community,' the `Martin Luther King Community Service Award,' and the `Vocational Excellence Award,' among other prestigious honors. Their impactful work continues to be supported and valued by the local community.

As we celebrate FIRM's 30th anniversary, I commend their leadership, dedication to the valley, and their role as a vital resource for those striving for a better future.

Mr. Speaker, I invite my esteemed colleagues to join me in honoring the Fresno Interdenominational Refugee Ministries. Let us celebrate their legacy and their ongoing commitment to prioritizing the valley's refugees and providing them a safeguard in which they all call ``home.''