Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Dominga Bustamante, an integral and cherished figure in the San Joaquin Valley. Dominga's journey began when her family migrated to California in her early childhood so they could work in agriculture. After settling in Dinuba, she went on to graduate from Dinuba Unified School District and met her high school sweetheart, Cruz Bustamante Jr., along the way.

Together, they moved to San Joaquin, California where the newlywed Mrs. Bustamante recognized the pressing needs of her new community. This prompted her to join AmeriCorps and serve as a VISTA volunteer so she could help families obtain their much-needed Social Security benefits. Dominga then stayed the path of serving others by becoming a CSO Organizer. From driving the elderly to their appointments to interacting with local and county officials, she remained dedicated to ensuring the citizens of San Joaquin and neighboring communities received fair and equitable rights.

Recognizing her passion for advocacy, Dominga diversified her efforts across various roles throughout the community including law enforcement interdiction advocate, bilingual instructional aide, certificated health provider, and social and political advocate. She supported the youth by serving as a teen anxiety first responder and advisor for the San Joaquin Teen Club.

She also became known for going above and beyond to welcome new Hindu and Sikh families to the community as an unofficial ``Welcome Host.'' In recognition of these efforts and more, California Latina Leaders in Action honored Mrs. Bustamante with the prestigious ``Lifetime Achievement Award'' in 2002.

In addition to serving her community, Dominga also honored her faith as a beloved Catechism teacher for over 30 years. The Diocese of Fresno eventually acknowledged her

service with the ``Bishop's Catechist Appreciation Certificate'', recognizing her as a faithful minister of God's Word.

During her retirement years, Dominga continued educating and volunteering at organizations such as the Central California Food Bank. She treasured her time with family and always opened her home for family gatherings on holidays and birthdays. She became an accomplished seamstress and quilter and created beautiful handmade blankets for each of her 13 grandchildren.

Mrs. Bustamante is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Cruz Bustamante Jr. She is survived by her six children, Cruz, Belinda, Dorothy, Ron, Andrew and Naomi and 13 grandchildren and 24 great- grandchildren.

In Dominga's passing, we celebrate a life that embraced adventure, embodied generosity and left an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to know her. Let us express our deepest gratitude for her immeasurable contributions to her community in the San Joaquin Valley.

Mr. Speaker, I invite my esteemed colleagues to join me in commemorating the selfless life of Mrs. Dominga Bustamante. May her life's journey be an inspiration to us all.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the extraordinary spirit and life of Stephen W. Schilling: a great son, husband, father, advocate, and community leader.

Bill and Ruth Schilling gave birth to Stephen on Thanksgiving Day, 1946, in San Francisco, California. He graduated Marin Catholic High School in 1964. In 1969, he graduated from California State University- Chico majoring in businesses. He also pursued his graduated studies in Public Administration. President Kennedy's call to public duty inspired him to join the United States Peace Corps, where he served in Venezuela from 1971 to 1973. Schilling took over the clinic at a difficult time, as it was on the verge of bankruptcy and was about to be closed down by financial and regulatory officials.

After a few years, he was promoted to Clinica Sierra Vista's CEO. His tremendous work, combined with an amazing staff, allowed the clinic to flourish and become one of the largest varied and clinically trained health and human services nonprofits in the country. Clinica Sierra Vista's operations has had a good impact on the lives of many different communities, including farmworker and senior populations, rural villages, unhoused persons, the urban poor, and those without insurance.

Steve spent nearly 45 years, and his transformative leadership can be seen in the growth of the clinic, going from a dozen employees to twelve hundred; from two hundred thousand dollars to one hundred twenty million dollars per year and from an operation housed in a trailer to more than 70 service locations throughout three counties in Central California serving thousands of people every day.

His joy for life was mirrored in his interests, which included gardening in his yard, sports,

fishing, hunting, and travel, as well as community activities. Steve was a founding member of the Rotary Club of Bakersfield. He was also a member of several community organizations, including the Human Relations Commission, the Children's Network, nine chambers of commerce, and numerous other organizations, demonstrating his commitment to serving by staying informed about the needs of the valley's many vulnerable populations.

In Steve's passing, we celebrate a life that left an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to know him. His legacy lives on in his family; wife Deidre, children Christina, Mari, Sheridan, John, and grandchildren Sofia and Vivienne. May we draw inspiration from Steve's enduring spirit and the richness of a life well-lived.

Mr. Speaker, I invite my esteemed colleagues to join me in paying tribute to the memory of Stephen W. Schilling.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to eulogize three individuals who made a difference in their lives, in so many different ways, to our community and to our country.

Glen Neff McGhie, Jr., was one of those whose life made a difference. He exemplified service to our community and to our country.

He served in Vietnam. After coming home, he continued to dedicate much of his life to helping veterans in need, who needed support after serving our country, as well as those who had suffered disabilities.

He was a devout volunteer to the Disabled American Veterans organization and served as president of the Veterans Home of California, a home that I have worked with for many, many years that we brought together with State and Federal funding.

Glen was very proud of the ability to provide services to our veterans throughout the San Joaquin Valley. One of his last major accomplishments was building a monument, which is seen here, to honor veterans in the San Joaquin Valley whose lives exemplified public service. For a grateful Nation, we can never ever be thankful enough, and Glen understood that.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring the memory of Glen Neff McGhie. He will be remembered for so many of the invaluable contributions he has made, not only to our community, but to our valley, to our State, and to our Nation.

Honoring the Life of Kathy Bonilla

Mr. Speaker, I also rise today to honor the life of Kathy Bonilla. Kathy was a stellar educator who represented Fresno City College and the State Center Community College System, again, in the San Joaquin Valley.

She understood the importance of the community college system in California, which encompassed 116 community colleges. State Center was where she did so much for so many who have received their community college education.

Since 1991, she served as a public information officer for Fresno City College, home of the Rams, ensuring that the community learned about the college's exemplary programs and outstanding students, who were all using this opportunity to further their education so that they could have opportunities for career paths that would add value and make a difference for our country.

Her extensive contributions established her as an expert in media, and her work extended to the State level as an active member of the California Community College Public Relations Organization because it was important to talk about all the incredible things that Fresno City College did and the opportunities that they provided for students throughout our valley.

Above all, Kathy was a wonderful mother and wife to her husband, Jesse, and their daughter, Angelina.

She is missed. Her humor will remain a reminder of the joy she has filled countless lives with. We mourn the loss of this esteemed member of our community.

Dr. Carole Goldsmith knows that she made a difference. The people in Fresno know that she made a difference, and we will miss her.

Honoring the Life of Dorothy ``Dottie'' Jones

Mr. Speaker, I also rise today to honor the life of Dottie Jones, and what an incredible life it was. She lived 103 years, and she lived with passion and determination.

A loving mother of four children and a lifelong friend, she peacefully passed away at 103 years of age.

When Dottie was 21 years of age, she saw the attack on Pearl Harbor. A year later, in 1942, she enlisted in the United States Navy to serve our country.

She was among the first of women to join the United States Navy and served during World War II with distinction and honor, where only 350,000 females served in the United States military during World War

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the indomitable spirit and extraordinary life of Susan Rowe; a true icon whose legacy transcends the ordinary.

Born on February 20, 1956, to Jo Ann and John Warren Smith, Susan was not just a woman; she was a force of political activism and civic engagement, embodying the essence of California's Democratic traditions.

Raised in Anderson, Indiana, Susan lived through her passion for singing and dancing in plays and musicals. After graduation from Anderson High School in 1974, Susan attended Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana where she was a ballet major and a member of Alpha Phi sorority. Susan attended both high school and college with her eventual husband Michael Rowe. Susan and Mike were married on June 25, 1983, at St. Mary's Church in Anderson Indiana. Their love would endure for many years to come.

Although Susan spent a significant portion of her life in the Hoosier state, she managed to make a major impact as a Central Californian who changed a countless number of lives.

Susan honorably advocated for and served the people of the Central Valley for twenty years as a dedicated and relentless grassroots volunteer for the California Democratic Party. She was a tireless champion of democracy in which she contributed greatly by getting out the vote, promoting voter registration, and encouraging and recruiting candidates to run for public office.

For her efforts, Susan was rightfully recognized in 2004 and in 2015 when she was twice awarded the CDP Regional Volunteer of the Year Award. Her work and leadership skills were recognized as she served honorably in several leadership positions. She was elected to a two- year term in 2007-08 as Regional Director of Region 8 of the statewide party. Beginning in 2005 and until her passing she served as the chair of the Madera County Democratic Central Committee and also served multiple terms as the Vice-Chair of the Rural Caucus of the California Democratic Party. Additionally, Susan promoted political freedoms and activities as evident in her co-founding of the California Latina Democrats in Fresno.

In Susan's passing, we celebrate a life that embraced activism, supported the democratic process, and left an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her legacy lives on in her family: her husband Michael Rowe and her brother Carlton B. Smith of Indianapolis. May we draw inspiration from Susan Rowe's enduring spirit and the richness of a life well-lived. I extend my deepest condolences to her family, friends, and all who mourn the loss of this remarkable Californian. Mr. Speaker, I invite my esteemed colleagues to join me in paying tribute to the memory of Susan Rowe, a true Californian and inspiration to the Central Valley.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the distinguished career of Mark Keppler, a leader, educator and advocate of the Central Valley.

Prior to his professional embarkation, Mark achieved academic distinction earning a bachelor's degree (Magna Cum Laude) in business administration, with a minor in economics, from the State University of New York, as well as his master's degree, and a law degree in industrial relations with a concentration in collective bargaining and negotiations from the University of Wisconsin.

Following his educational achievements, Mr. Keppler began his career in the East Coast where he practiced labor-management law in Hartford, Connecticut and was an adjunct professor at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute's Hartford Graduate Center, where he taught labor and employment relations and negotiations. In 1987, he relocated to the Central Valley to join the Craig School of Business at California State University, Fresno as the Director of Graduate Programs from 1998 through 2003. During this tenure, Mark shaped the valley's future leaders through his teachings of employment law, industrial relations, and ethics.

Mark was then promoted to the Kenneth L. Maddy Professor of Public Affairs on June 1, 2004. In this role, his responsibilities were expanded to serve as the Executive Director of the Maddy Institute for the Valley's four public universities: University of California, Merced, California State University Fresno, California State University Stanislaus, and California State University Bakersfield.

His dedication to education and career development has shone through his exemplary leadership of the Maddy Institute, where he carried out their mission to elevate citizen participation and government performance at all levels through leadership education for public service. In this effort, he also provided his oversight to the Maddy Institute's Legislative Internship program which provides students with the opportunity to intern in legislative offices throughout the San Joaquin Valley, Sacramento and even Washington, D.C. Under his diligence, The Maddy Institute and Costa Scholars program provided over 500 scholarships to students across the Valley to pursue these distinguished internships. Throughout his journey, Mark has been a source of guidance and wisdom for the students at California State University Fresno and beyond He has shared his knowledge as a teacher leaving a lasting impact on both local and national levels.

Rooted in advocacy, Professor Keppler earned honors and recognitions along the way such as the Clovis Citizen of the Year, Faculty Advisor of the Year (twice) from the Society for Human Resource Management-- Region VI, Duncan Enterprises Faculty Award, the School of Business Faculty Award for Classroom Excellence and currently holds the Chair of the Clovis Community Foundation.

In addition to his remarkable professional achievements, Mark is a devoted husband to Karen Keppler, and a loving father to his daughter Caroline Keppler whom he will spend his well-deserved retirement with.

We thank professor Keppler for his devotion to empowering students in the pursuit of their educational and professional aspirations.

Mr. Speaker, I invite my esteemed colleagues to join me in commemorating the phenomenal career of Director Mark Keppler of The Maddy Institute. May we continue to be inspired by his good work for years to come.

Mr. Speaker, today, we gather to commemorate a remarkable milestone in the field of children's education and economic empowerment for families--the 25th Anniversary of Reading and Beyond (RAB). This historic occasion is a testament to the enduring legacy and unwavering commitment of RAB to improving literacy and success for children and empowering families across California.

Founded in 1999, RAB was started by members of the First Covenant Church bringing together community leaders to find a solution for children that were struggling to read in the neighborhood. Since then, RAB has been a leader for families in the San Joaquin Valley, providing educational and wellness opportunities that have been carried on through generations.

In 2003, RAB was selected by the U.S. Department of Education in a competitive process to receive national funding. Through this, they were able to develop their Early Childhood Education program into a model that other organizations could replicate. Within the same year, the Fresno Unified School District also honored RAB as a ``model for other organizations.'' In 2008, RAB was recognized by Kern Briggs, the Department of Education Assistant Secretary for Elementary and Secondary Education, as a ``remarkable example of the impact that faith-based organizations have in a community.'' In 2014, RAB was chosen as one of only ten national projects to receive funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture for their Fresno Bridge Academy program, for which they were awarded $12 million to achieve their goal of lifting families out of poverty through educational services.

The RAB mission is both clear and commendable: to empower children and families to achieve productive, self-reliant lives through its holistic, research, and results-based programs with the end goal of helping children succeed. Through this two-generation approach, RAB has been able to create a lasting effect on families that is passed down generationally. As a result of their commitment to this mission, RAB has grown from what started out as a community effort to help children in Fresno's neighborhoods improve their reading into the pillar of children's and family wellness and empowerment throughout the San Joaquin Valley that it is today. Beyond preschool and early childhood education, their services now include youth prevention and intervention programs, parent engagement and family strengthening programs, health and wellness education, training programs and workforce development for adults, and college preparation for students.

As Reading and Beyond reaches their 25th Anniversary, we must recognize and celebrate this momentous occasion. It represents a quarter of a century of dedication, commitment, and service to the families and communities of the San Joaquin Valley. Their work has impacted not only the individual children and families, but also the overall well-being of the Valley.

Mr. Speaker, I invite my esteemed colleagues to join me in honoring the 25th Anniversary of Reading and Beyond. Let us celebrate their legacy and their ongoing commitment to advancing educational, health and wellness opportunities to underserved families and children.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Tad Weber, an esteemed journalist, and Opinion Page Editor at The Fresno Bee, on his retirement.

Mr. Weber has dedicated more than 50 years of his life to a career in journalism, of which over a decade was carried out here in Fresno at The Fresno Bee newspaper. Before coming to The Fresno Bee in 2013, Mr. Weber worked at newspapers in Santa Maria, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo, California. His journey eventually led him to Fresno, where he served as Metro Editor of the Fresno Bee, directing news coverage of the Central San Joaquin Valley. In 2018, Tad was promoted to the Opinion Page Editor, a position which granted him the responsibility of writing editorials shaping opinion on key issues impacts the Valley. He is known for his dedication, fairness, and well-thought-out commentaries.

Over his lengthy career, Tad earned many awards and leaves a legacy of fair and accurate news coverage. The Executive Editor of the San Luis Obispo Tribune, Sandra Duerr, describes Tad as ``a key player in strengthening news coverage countywide, producing terrific journalism that has made a difference to readers and won many state and national awards.'' Most recently, Mr. Weber was awarded Best Editorial in Large Digital/Print for the 2024 George F. Gruner Awards for San Joaquin Valley news outlets.

Tad will enjoy his retirement in Clovis, California, with his wife Donna and adult children, Katie and John, and their family dog, Ginger.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in commemorating the phenomenal career of Tad Weber. May we never forget his contributions and commitment to journalism throughout his life. We hope his legacy of excellence inspires future generations of journalists.

Mr. Speaker, today, we gather to commemorate a remarkable milestone in the field of healthcare and community service--the 50th Anniversary of West Care. This historic occasion is a testament to the enduring legacy and unwavering commitment of West Care to improving various physical, mental, and behavioral health issues in the community.

Comprehensive Drug and Alcohol Abuse Program of Central California (CDAAPCC) was founded in the spring of 1973 under the visionary leadership of four master's graduates from California State University of Fresno in aspirations of finding a solution of the rising issue of substance abuse in Fresno, CA. Of the four initial founders, only one, Robert ``Bob'' Klise, MSW, continued the original mission. What began as a thesis, would grow exponentially over the next 50 years to provide behavioral health and human services in the Golden State and beyond.

The legacy that has transcended from 1973 until 2024 has left an undeniable impact on many. In 1973 the Comprehensive Drug and Alcohol Abuse Program of Central California (CDAAPCC) was founded to facilitate the creation of a treatment program. In 1974, The Third Floor of the program received funding and was able to admit its first client in 1975. The project at hand continued to prosper and in search of new ways to assist the community, residential services expanded to include women's treatments in 1985.

Further expansion allowed for a new recovery residence to promote aftercare in 1988. In 1992, The Third Floor entered a management contract with West Care following the passing of founder, Bob Klise. In efforts to continue his legacy after his passing, The Third Floor began offering outpatient treatments. 1999 was a pivotal year for The Third Floor as it merged with West Care to become West Care California, Veteran services were introduced with the Homefront Grant-Per-Diem Transitional Housing Program. Education, and prevention services were also introduced with the Women 2 Women program for mothers, who were affected by or at risk of HIV/AIDS. Treatment services broadened into perinatal services to tie young children into their parent's treatments. Last, but most certainly not least, California's longest running program, MLK residential, was founded with the management provided by West Care. Within the following years, many programs, such as: The Living Room, San Joaquin Valley Veterans, Youth Services in Kings, and Options Program were introduced and merged with West Care.

In 2014, the Criminal Justice Services expanded with the introduction of the Custody to Community Transition Reentry Program (CCTRP) in San Diego. That same year, extension into Housing Opportunities for non- Veteran individuals and families experiencing homelessness with the project LiftOFF program was also introduced. Within 2021-2023 more programs such as Housing Support, New Model of Care, and Wings Advocacy Fresno also collaborated with West Care to provide additional support.

West Cares mission is both clear and commendable. The community outreach efforts have left an indelible mark on the Central Valley. Their commitment to uplifting the human spirit is unwavering, with numerous organizations and program support. Their advocacy efforts are rooted in the promotion of working, growing, and learning together. As we stand on the cusp of West Cares 50th Anniversary, it is incumbent upon us to recognize and celebrate this momentous occasion. It represents five decades of unwavering dedication, advocacy, and service to the community.

Mr. Speaker, I invite my esteemed colleagues to join me in honoring West Care. Let us celebrate their legacy and their ongoing commitment to changing lives and improving communities in which it operates.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the distinguished life and incomparable spirit of Margaret ``Marge'' M. Medellin, an inspiration and trailblazer of public service.

Born on October 8, 1937, to Mary and James Martinez, Marge was a lifetime resident of Madera, California. As a child, she discovered her love of reading and learning, laying the foundation of her 46-year career at the Madera County Office of Education beginning in July 1956. Married in July 1957 to Victor M. Medellin, Marge and Victor raised four children. They were blessed with 35 years of marriage before his passing in 1991.

Dedication to her community and a call to service led her to run for Madera City Council. Beginning her campaigning in 1977, she won her first term as the First Councilwoman in the City of Madera. This was Marge's first step in her successful political journey spanning 1978 to 2002. Winning her second term in 1982 and elected as mayor of Madera on April 20th, Marge was recognized as California's First Hispanic Female Mayor in the State of California. She served for two consecutive terms and an additional 4-year term.

In December 2016, Marge and her son, Andy Medellin, made history when she swore him in as the mayor of Madera. They are believed to be the first mother and son duo that have been elected mayor of the same city in California.

Marge's passion for learning and love of helping people was not limited to her career in office. Serving on countless boards and commissions, she worked to understand and assist residents of the Central Valley. She was a founding member of the Pan American Club which provides college scholarships for young Hispanic students. She was also a founding member of Latinas Unidas which empowers young Hispanic women.

In Marge's passing, we celebrate a life that has left an indelible mark on the world and all who were fortunate enough to know her. Marge's legacy lives on in her family: son, Paul Medellin and Frances Harris; Rick Medellin and Fiance Tammy Parnow; Andy and Marsela Medellin; daughter Teri (Medellin) and Sid Greene; 8 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren. I extend my deepest condolences to her family, friends, and all who mourn the loss of this remarkable Californian. May we draw inspiration from Marge Medellin, a catalyst of change and beloved friend to the Central Valley.

Mr. Speaker, I invite my esteemed colleagues to join me in paying tribute to the memory of Marge Medellin, a true pioneer, advocate, and mentor.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the distinguished career of John Telles, a true son of the San Joaquin Valley whose journey began as he left the halls of Los Banos High School in 1966. Dr. Telles' path has been one of unwavering dedication, passion, and service to both medicine and his community.

After earning his chemistry degree from the University of California, Davis, in 1970, Dr. Telles ventured to the bustling Texas Medical Center in Houston, to pursue his dream of becoming a doctor at Baylor College of Medicine. Inspired by the pioneering work in cardiovascular care of Dr. Michael DeBakey, Dr. Telles embarked on a journey that would shape the course of his career.

From his internship at the University of Cincinnati Medical School to his residency at the University of Rochester in New York, Dr. Telles honed his skills and expertise, laying the foundation for his future endeavors. His Fellowship in Cardiology at UCLA Harbor General Hospital under the mentorship of Dr. Michael Criley was a formative experience.

In 1979, Dr. Telles joined Cardiovascular Associates as a Board- Certified Cardiologist, where he became an integral part of a team committed to excellence in patient care. Over the next four decades, he dedicated himself to practicing cardiology at St. Agnes Hospital, leaving an indelible mark on the field. Dr. Telles' pioneering spirit extended into the evolving field of Electrophysiology where he spearheaded the development of an electrophysiology program at St. Agnes Hospital, and he became the first Board Certified Electrophysiologist in Fresno.

Dr. Telles sought to address the broader issues impacting cardiovascular health in the San Joaquin Valley. His leadership as President of the Fresno-Madera Medical Society and as Chairman of Cardiology at St. Agnes Hospital underscored his commitment to improving healthcare delivery. Dr. Telles, together with his colleagues, established The Fresno Heart Hospital expanding the number of beds and services for patient care in the valley.

Beyond the walls of the hospital, Dr. Telles championed efforts to address air quality issues in the Valley. His service on the San Joaquin Valley Pollution Control District Board in Fresno and his three years' service on the California Air Resources Control Board in Sacramento, highlighted his dedication to the well-being of his community .

Over the past four decades, Dr. Telles and The Heart Group have worked tirelessly to expand their practice, committed to Serving patients across Fresno and Clovis, ensuring that individuals throughout the Valley receive the highest standard of cardiovascular care.

Through leadership and vision, The Heart Group, has transformed the landscape of cardiac care, leaving an enduring legacy for generations to come.

Amidst his professional achievements, Dr. Telles has found strength and support in his beloved family. Alongside his devoted wife, Jolene, he has raised four sons: Connor, Kyle, Rainer and Finn, who have returned to the Valley, bringing with them their talents and dedication to reinvest in their hometown.

As Dr. Telles embarks on this new chapter of his life, let us express our deepest gratitude for his immeasurable contributions to cardiovascular healthcare in the San Joaquin Valley.

Mr. Speaker, I invite my esteemed colleagues to join me in commemorating the phenomenal career of Dr. John Telles.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the incomparable spirit and extraordinary life of Lucio ``Chio'' Gonzales; a true icon whose legacy transcends the ordinary.

Born on December 15, 1931, to Claro Sr. and Francisca Guzman. Chio was not just a man, he was a force of advocacy, embodying the essence of California's oldest civic traditions.

A native of Blythe, California, Chio settled in the Central Valley after spending his early years working as a migrant farmworker in the region's rich agricultural fields. He met his late wife Butter in the historic farmworker community of Delano in 1946. It was love at first sight for both Butter and Chio, and their love would endure for all the years to come as they married on November 24, 1956. The couple took over ownership of the People's Market in 1969, and the two worked together side by side managing the grocery store in Delano for over 40 years.

The Gonzales family formed a strong bond over the years with the Filipino Community of Delano. They served as advocates and allies for the inclusion and representation of Filipinos in Delano civic life. Their efforts played an instrumental role in electing the first Filipino American to serve on the elected body and worked to ensure the success of Delano's Philippine Weekend community celebration for the last 45 years. Chio engaged in a rich tapestry of civil service activities for the improvement of the community he loved so much. He founded the local chapter of the Mexican-

American Political Organization, aided the founding of the Ideal Club, and helped register people to vote at his market. Additionally, Chio served in a variety of different capacities through his memberships in the Delano City Planning Commission, St. Mary's School Board, Kern County Board of Trade, Delano Elementary School Board, and the Department of Corrections Citizens Advisory Committee.

His love for life was not only confined to politics and community service but also translated to the field with a lifelong passion and loyalty to the Dodgers. Lucio also loved playing golf with his sons and enjoyed attending church every Sunday with his beloved wife Butter.

In Chio's passing, we celebrate a life that embraced adventure, challenged norms, and left an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to know him. His legacy lives on in his family; daughter Hedi and sons Eddie and Anthony. May we draw inspiration from Chio's enduring spirit and the richness of a life well-lived. I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who mourn the loss of this remarkable Californian.

Mr. Speaker, I invite my esteemed colleagues to join me in paying tribute to the memory of Lucio ``Chio'' Gonzales.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the extraordinary spirit and life of Karen Elaine Thompson; a beloved daughter. sister, wife. and mother.

On May 11, 1960, Karen was born to Allan and Elaine Johnson in Moscow, Idaho. Just two weeks after her birth, Karen, her mother, and her brother reunited with Allan in Watsonville, California where he had recently taken his first position with Bank of America. Karen began her schooling in Modesto, but as Allan rose through the ranks at the bank, she continued her education wherever work took him including Novato, Shafter, Lindsay, and finally Madera where she graduated high school in 1978.

Karen then chose to further her education at Fresno City College and Heald Four C's Business College with a special focus on secretarial courses. Utilizing her education, she landed her first secretary position at Fresno Federal Land Bank where she met her first love, Mark Thompson. Later, Karen shifted her focus to marketing as the administrative assistant for the CEO of Fresno-Madera Farm Credit before taking her expertise to Citizens Business Bank in Madera. The zenith of Karen's career would come in the years she spent working as an executive assistant at Fresno Heart Hospital, EyeQ, and Community Cancer Institute, places where her importance cannot be understated. One of her greatest achievements was her work alongside executives in building the Cancer Institute in Clovis.

During these years, Karen also raised her two sons, Kyle and Alex, in Madera. Then, when the opportunity presented itself. Karen and Mark took a chance and purchased a home and acreage in Madera Ranchos and eventually married in 2014.

Wherever she lived, Karen always sought to improve her community. She engaged in a variety of volunteer activities for the Big Fresno Fair Livestock Auction, The Kids Breakfast, and the Toolbox Program. Additionally, Karen was always willing to lend a helping hand in events related to agriculture such as those put on by the Cattlemen's Association. Fresno County Farm Bureau, and Reedley College Ag Backers. Equally important, Karen served in a variety of different capacities through her memberships in PEO and Chapter VO where she provided excellent leadership and communication skills. She also was a member of the Clovis Rodeo Association where she served as secretary of the board since 2022.

Her love for life was reflected in her many hobbies, Karen loved photography, camping, sporting clays, gardening, fishing, camping, hand crafts, traveling, and of course, her grandson Liam.

In Karen's passing, we celebrate a life that left an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her legacy lives on in her family; husband Mark and sons Kyle and Alex. May we draw inspiration from Karen's enduring spirit and the richness of a life well-lived.

Mr. Speaker, I invite my esteemed colleagues to join me in paying tribute to the memory of Karen Elaine Thompson.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Kern Energy on its remarkable 90 years of service as a vital family-owned and operated transportation fuel producer in the Southern San Joaquin Valley. Since its founding in 1934, Kern Energy has exemplified a resilient ``small but mighty'' ethos, continuously evolving to meet California's dynamic energy needs. As the sole refinery producing gasoline and diesel between Los Angeles and the Bay Area, Kern Energy plays a crucial role in fueling both our state's agricultural heartland and its major transportation networks. Today, they proudly contribute 1 percent of California's gasoline and 3 percent of its diesel supply.

Refining up to 27,000 barrels per day of crude oil and producing a wide range of ``California Clean'' renewable products, Kern Energy's team of 185 continues to proudly meet the transportation needs of the Central Valley and the state. Kern Energy takes a pragmatic approach to producing the clean energy California needs now and in the future. With a focus on driving down the carbon intensity of gasoline and diesel, reducing the environmental footprint of their facility, and innovating toward next-generation renewable fuels, their mission is both essential and commendable.

Throughout its history, Kern Energy has not only adapted to California's rigorous regulatory landscape but has thrived as an innovator in renewable fuel production. A powerhouse for innovation, they were among the first in the Nation to produce renewable diesel through bio-feed co-processing and the first small refinery in our state to blend biodiesel, aligning with California's Low Carbon Fuel Standard and the Federal Renewable Fuel Standard. Their efforts have resulted in over 58 million gallons of renewable diesel and 74 million gallons of biodiesel blended into their fuels.

Beyond their contributions to clean energy, Kern Energy has been a steadfast community partner, committed to both economic growth and environmental stewardship. Over the years, Kern Energy has demonstrated a strong commitment to their workforce and the communities they serve, ensuring that their operations contribute positively to our region's prosperity.

As we celebrate Kern Energy's 90th anniversary, I commend them for their leadership in energy innovation and their dedication to preserving our community's quality of life. Here's to another 90 years of excellence, job creation and sustainable solutions as Kern Energy continues to pave the way for a cleaner, brighter future for California.

Mr. Speaker, I invite my esteemed colleagues to join me in honoring Kern Energy. Let us celebrate their legacy and their ongoing commitment to advancing California's climate goals.

Mr. Speaker, the House has lost a giant and a trailblazer for justice and a good friend for so many of us, Sheila Jackson Lee, whom we honor here today and remember.

Born in Queens, New York, she was among the first women to graduate from Yale, and she dedicated her life to public service. For nearly 30 years she represented the people of Houston, Texas, in the House of Representatives. She was a role model for so many and for young women seeking to serve.

She led the reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act, VAWA, and established with her colleagues Juneteenth as a Federal holiday. Not only that, but she authored the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act with so many of her colleagues. The list goes on and on and on.

Sheila was my friend and had a thoughtful approach to foreign policy. Many don't know her efforts for years interacting with our colleagues in Europe and the European Parliament, always willing to participate and share her point of view. She was respected, and she noticed that dialogue and diplomacy should be the tools first rather than the last resort.

Her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of leaders.

We will miss you, Sheila, our friend.

May you rest in peace.

Mr. Speaker, I commend the hard work and the efforts and the passion that Representative Takano, the ranking member on the committee and previous chair, has given to this issue. The hard work finally has paid off, and for that we thank him.

For far too long, our Nation has failed to honor its promise to all our veterans who are victims of toxic exposures. It is our sacred obligation, I believe, to take care of the troops we send in harm's way--that is the American way--and to take care of them and their families when they return home.

Sadly, nearly 3.5 million veterans have been exposed to the contaminants such as burn pits, toxic fragments, radiation, and other hazardous materials during their deployment.

Until the mid-2010s, the burn pits were commonly used in Iraq and Afghanistan and other locations to dispose of waste collected at military bases.

Well, we have discovered that the aftermath has resulted in drastic impacts to those veterans. Nearly 3.5 million deployed veterans were exposed to burn pits in the last 30 years. Think about that, 3.5 million veterans. Mr. Speaker, 70 percent of the disability claims involving these toxic exposures were denied--they were denied by the Veterans Administration, and that is just wrong--leaving many of them, including 750,000 Iraq and Afghanistan veterans, without any benefits. That is disgraceful.

House Democrats and President Biden fought like hell to change this, and we did. The PACT Act is the largest expansion--think about this-- the largest expansion of benefits for service for toxic-exposed veterans in over 30 years through the hard work of Representative Takano and other members on that committee joining with our Democratic Caucus.

We have added over 23 presumptive conditions, or categories as was noted before, for burn pits and Agent Orange and expanded the VA healthcare to millions of veterans, including those who served in Vietnam, the Gulf war, and post-9/11 eras.

Mr. Speaker, 2 years later, we are beginning to see the results. It is long overdue. More than 5.6 million veterans have received screenings for toxic exposures. Over 1 million veteran claims have been granted by the Veterans Administration, a 75 percent approval rate for PACT Act-related claims.

What a change.

Nearly 24,000 veterans in my district alone, the 24th District in the San Joaquin Valley, are eligible for benefits, including 2,100 processed claims and a total of over $5.17 billion in retroactive awards for PACT Act-related benefits for veterans and their survivors. This is a sea change. It is a big deal.

I thank President Biden, and I thank Secretary McDonough for their help. I thank all those Members who have been involved in this for their hard work. I am proud to have been a cosponsor and to have voted for this historic law that has improved the lives of veterans in my district and nationwide and their families, for the families sacrifice, as well, and we should never ever forget that.

In closing, we must continue to build upon the success and to ensure that our veterans can retire with the dignity and the respect they deserve because they have earned it. They have earned it.

The bottom line is this: For those men and women who are currently serving our country, we thank you, and we think of you every day. For the veterans and their families--as I said, the families sacrifice, as well--a grateful nation can never ever say thank you enough.