Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Nwaeze Nmereole as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. A devoted advocate for others, Nwaeze has transformed the lives of individuals and families throughout the Nigerian, African, and broader immigrant communities of Contra Costa County and the greater Bay Area.

One of Nwaeze's greatest passions is education and empowerment. She voluntarily tutors individuals preparing for the GED examination, assists prospective Licensed Vocational Nurses with licensing examinations, and teaches basic computer skills to help others pursue employment and become more self-sufficient. She is equally committed to mentoring young people, encouraging them to pursue their education, develop job skills, achieve financial independence, and build productive futures.

Through her work, Nwaeze has become a trusted resource for immigrants, elderly residents, and families experiencing hardship. She helps newly arrived immigrants obtain driver's licenses, open bank accounts, enroll in English as a Second Language programs, and navigate the U.S. immigration process. She also assists elderly community members with transportation to medical care, obtaining prescriptions, and purchasing groceries. Nwaeze has also opened her home to individuals experiencing homelessness, providing temporary shelter until they can regain stability.

Nwaeze has quietly transformed lives without seeking recognition, guided by her faith, compassion, and belief that everyone deserves dignity and an opportunity to succeed. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor Nwaeze Nmereole for her outstanding service and positive contributions to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Carmen Slack as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Carmen has demonstrated a longstanding commitment to strengthening and celebrating the arts throughout Vallejo and Solano County. Through her leadership in the local arts community, she has helped create opportunities that bring residents together while ensuring that artists have meaningful spaces to share their talents and creativity.

Carmen has been instrumental in supporting arts programming, grant writing, free public events, and the fiscal sponsorship of cultural activities throughout the year. She has also played an important role in the continued success of the Vallejo Art Walk, one of the city's longest-running cultural events. Through these efforts, local artists are given opportunities to showcase their work while residents are invited to gather, connect, and experience Vallejo's vibrant artistic community.

As Director of the SoIano County Art Council, Carmen has continued to expand access to the arts and encourage broad participation across the community. Her work has helped ensure that local artists are supported, represented, and included in the cultural life of the region.

On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor Carmen Slack for her dedication to the arts and her many contributions to Vallejo and Solano County.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Dr. Mayra Padilla as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. As a lifelong resident of Contra Costa County, Mayra has committed herself to leadership, service, equity, and educational opportunity in our community. A graduate of Richmond High School, Mayra completed her undergraduate education at Contra Costa College and U.C. Davis, where she earned a degree in applied physics, later earning a doctorate in neuroscience at U.C. Berkeley. After building a career in neuroscience at the San Francisco Brain Institute, SRI International, and Sands Research, Inc., Mayra returned to Contra Costa College to serve as the director of the Hispanic Serving Institution Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math grant. She now serves as Dean of Institutional Effectiveness and Equity at Contra Costa College. In addition to her work with Contra Costa College, Mayra serves the community through roles with the East Bay Center for Performing Arts and the Research and Planning Group for California Community Colleges. Mayra's work has benefited Contra Costa College students and others across the state, and her dedication to the community does not go unnoticed. Her efforts have strengthened those around her and helped create a more connected, supportive, and thriving community. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Dr. Mayra Padilla for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Mary Ann Dawkins-Padigela as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Mary Ann is a dignified U.S. Air Force veteran who continues to serve her community as President of the East Bay Chapter of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists. Under her exceptional leadership, the East Bay chapter has expanded to over 700 members by cultivating an inclusive work environment where pre-licensed and licensed therapists feel respected, supported, and valued. Mary Ann has dedicated herself to bringing people together through meaningful collaborations and turning ambitious ideas into tangible results. From organizing and overseeing numerous initiatives to leading continuing education workshops and community networking gatherings, Mary Ann approaches every endeavor with professionalism, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Her ability to unite people from diverse professional and cultural backgrounds and to translate complex clinical concepts into practical, accessible community solutions is a rare quality that her team and community deeply appreciate. She not only prioritizes excellence and inclusivity, but also strongly advocates for under-resourced and systemically marginalized communities. Mary Ann is the epitome of ideal community leadership and advocacy, and her hard work does not go unnoticed. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Mary Ann Dawkins-Padigela for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Elana ``Lana'' Bolds as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. As a community leader, Elana cares for her neighbors, helps families in need, and makes herself available whenever people call. Since 1995, Elana has organized community events, talent shows, youth opportunities, and other activities that give children positive opportunities to connect and thrive. She has worked in community centers, schools, and programs, helping young people understand the consequences of their choices. More than an event organizer, she creates a true sense of community in her neighborhood, making children feel seen, protected, celebrated, and connected. Elana is also a funeral singer, where she witnessed far too many children from her neighborhood lose their lives to violence. Twenty years ago, she channeled her grief and concern into establishing the annual ``Put the Guns Down'' anti-violence event. Through her organization, Visions of Hope, she continues to bring families, youth, service providers, community leaders, and public safety partners together to address bullying and violence prevention. Elana's commitment to her community has endured through personal loss, the COVID-19 pandemic, and other hardships. While she has mourned children she once worked with, her guidance and unwavering presence have helped many others grow into adulthood. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Elana ``Lana'' Bolds for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Annie King-Meredith as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. A devoted member of the Richmond community, Annie has dutifully served her community in the variety of roles that she has held in her six decades of service. She spent her career working in the defense industry as an engineer and project manager and has been deeply involved in local governance and neighborhood initiatives in Contra Costa County throughout her life. Annie has served the North Richmond Municipal Advisory Council, the Contra Costa County Neighborhood Services, the Shields-Reid Neighborhood Council, and many other organizations. Throughout all of these roles, Annie has demonstrated her dedication to the goal of community planning and city development, as she aims to give back to the communities that raised her. Annie has also dedicated her time to the causes of environmental justice, as she calls attention to egregious environmental hazards, and helps her local community receive more resources and services. In addition to these civic contributions, Annie is also a talented artist; she frequently uses her artistic skills to both demonstrate the beauty of humanity, and to call out injustices. By demonstrating her unwavering service and commitment to environmental justice, Annie embodies what it means to give back to your community. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Annie King-Meredith for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Michelle Denise Milam as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Michelle Milam has devoted her career to making Richmond a safer, stronger, and more compassionate community.

A Richmond native, she began her public service as a teenager with the East Bay Public Safety Corridor Partnership, working to prevent gun violence and building the foundation for a career uniting government and community. She later served as a field representative for the California State Assembly and as a mayoral aide and spokesperson in the Richmond Mayor's Office.

As Crime Prevention Manager for the City of Richmond Police Department, Michelle's work reaches far beyond traditional crime prevention. She helped secure nearly $30 million with city, county, state, federal, and community partners to expand outreach, shelter, treatment, encampment resolution, and pathways to housing.

Michelle also serves as President of the Richmond Public Library Foundation, is a member of the Richmond Rotary Club, and is active in St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church. Grounded in family and community resilience, Michelle leads with compassion, persistence, and creativity, consistently bringing people together to strengthen Richmond. Her work serves as an inspiration to others and demonstrates the meaningful impact that one dedicated individual can have. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Michelle Milam for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Shasa Curl as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Shasa has dedicated more than two decades as City Manager of the city of Richmond, leaving behind a storied career in public service and a lasting legacy in the City of Richmond.

Shasa recently concluded her career as Richmond City Manager after decades of strengthening the community she served. Beginning her public service career with the Redevelopment Agency, Shasa drew on her expertise in urban development to help secure over $300 million in new grant funding for infrastructure, housing, and education. In partnership with the Richmond Fund for Children and Youth, Shasa helped allocate $9 million for youth-serving organizations in the 2026 fiscal year alone. Shasa's leadership strengthened Richmond's financial position, increasing the city's reserves to 21 percent and removing Richmond from the State auditor's high-risk designation. Under her leadership, Richmond recorded its lowest homicide rate in 2025. Throughout her career, she built strong partnerships with community stakeholders and City Councils to advance Richmond's long-term interests. Shasa is a dedicated public servant whose leadership, expertise, and commitment to Richmond have left an everlasting legacy. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Shasa Curl for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Yolanda Mendoza as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. As a member of the local Latina Center, she has dedicated her time to empowering women, supporting families, and supporting our community. Meaningful change does not happen overnight, it happens after years of hard work and dedication. For the past 13 years, Yolanda has shown up for her community with compassion and care for those around her, and she didn't give up until she created real change. She has been a problem solver for those she serves, committed to connecting people with resources, navigating their challenges, and building trust with local families in Richmond, Antioch, Roseville, and Bay Point, making a difference for anyone she encounters. Her reach extends far beyond the district, as she's shown up across California, Mexico, South America, and Spain with compassion and a willingness to help. She not only embodies what it means to be a community leader but also sets others up to do the same. Yolanda's commitment to her community reflects the best traits of a leader, as she consistently shows dedication to empowering those around her. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Yolanda Mendoza for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Amanda Jenkins as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. As a devoted and resilient member of the community who has endured eight years without stable housing, Amanda works for Contra Costa County's Coordinate Outreach Referral and Engagement (CORE) program to provide resources to people experiencing homelessness in the Richmond area. Amanda, a mother of five and grandmother of seven, originally faced homelessness after she made the difficult decision to leave an abusive relationship. Despite facing difficult circumstances, Amanda remained committed to supporting the people around her, establishing the Castro encampment, protecting her neighbors, and sharing resources with her community. She has also remained a fierce advocate for her community, sparking key dialogues between government agencies, homelessness task forces, and people living in unhoused communities. Today, through her work for the CORE program, Amanda engages with and helps stabilize people experiencing unsheltered homelessness through consistent street outreach. She is also attending school to become a Community Health Worker. Amanda is not defined by the years she spent without housing, she is defined by the community she protected, the trust she built, the promise she kept, the people she continues to serve, and the hope her life now gives to others. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Amanda Jenkins for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Annisha

Geran as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year, Annisha Geran, a devoted mother of four and an involved community member, inspires those around her. Driven by her dedication to her children's and the community's education, Annisha has remained actively engaged in the Pittsburg Unified School District (PUSD). She has served as vice president on the school site council at Pittsburg High School for the past two terms and has participated in many PUSD parent classes, including PIQE, Serenamente, and Parent Project. She also founded Parent Appreciation Night at Pittsburg High School, now in its third year.

As a working mother, Annisha has also led by example, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Social Science from Chico State, where she earned the Billie Jackson Award honoring the top African American Scholar at the university. Also, as an alumna of Los Medanos College, she received the college's Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Emerging Leadership Award in 2025, highlighting the impact of her advocacy and leadership throughout Pittsburg.

Annisha has transformed personal hardship into fuel and a commitment to uplifting and empowering others. Her perseverance is inspiring and encourages others to seek support and accomplish their goals. Annisha is a role model in her community and a true symbol of both strength and determination. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Annisha Geran for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Dr. Rocio

Hernandez as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Dr. Rocio ``Cio'' Hernandez is a mental health clinician, public health leader, educator, and philanthropist whose three decades of work center on service to children, families, and communities. She connects individual healing with community leadership, advancing accessibility, inclusion, and opportunities for individuals to build resilience for themselves and others. Her public service includes leadership on the First 5 Children and Families Commissions in Contra Costa and Marin counties, where she advocates for young children and the systems that support them. She has helped lead the Novato Teen Clinic, Young Moms Group, Cio's Angels, and Binational Health Week. As a bilingual public information officer, producer, and host of CONNECT!, Rocio expanded access to mental health, family resources, and public services. Through teaching, clinical practice, and community engagement, she has remained committed to reducing stigma and helping people feel safe seeking support. As founder, president, and CEO of The Be it Foundation, she furthers her work through scholarships, emergency assistance, and behavioral health workforce development. She also founded Got This! Inc. and Levelation International, which promotes resilience and leadership development. She is also a generous friend and colleague, often working quietly behind the scenes to build a healthier community. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Dr. Rocio Hernandez for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Stacy Wayne as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. As principal of El Cerrito High School, Stacy has worked to foster a strong, safe, and high-performing environment for both students and staff. From the beginning, Stacy has brought her innovative vision to El Cerrito High while collaborating with students and faculty members. A committed leader, she has brought new ideas and dynamic energy to the El Cerrito community, elevating opportunities for academic success while prioritizing student well-being and school culture.

A frequent face at school events, from athletics to theater, Stacy is dedicated to ensuring that every student feels supported in their extracurricular pursuits. She has grown large amounts of school spirit, rallying students to support their peers. She further works with faculty and staff, ensuring active collaboration among teachers to foster a school culture that prioritizes education and student success while making students feel seen and valued.

The cohesive, encouraging environment she has cultivated at El Cerrito High School has benefited students, their families, and faculty alike. Stacy's dedication to student success, support for faculty, and outstanding service to the El Cerrito community do not go unnoticed. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Stacy Wayne for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Jamela Smith-Folds as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Jamela Smith-Folds is an exceptional member of the West Contra Costa Unified School District (WCCUSD) Board of Trustees, and she has proven herself an extraordinary leader in her 15-year career in education. A pillar of our community, her deep commitment to student success is rooted in her own remarkable journey.

As a child, Jamela Smith-Folds struggled with reading until a single teacher recognized her potential and invested time in her igniting her lifelong passion for learning, This experience shaped her core philosophy every child deserves to be seen, taught, and championed. She has served as a WCCUSD classroom teacher, homeschool educator, devoted parent

volunteer, and leader of numerous school organizations. From coaching at Hercules Middle School to advocating for families, she has always focused on uplifting others.

In 2020, her dedication culminated in her election to the WCCUSD School Board, where she has found one of her greatest joys serving the community as Trustee. Since taking office, Trustee Smith-Folds has distinguished herself by an unwavering, uncompromising commitment to equity and justice. She played a pivotal role in establishing the school district's equity policies, leading with both heart and backbone to ensure education systems serve all students equitably. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Jamela Smith-Folds for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Rachel Shoemake as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Rachel, a member of IBEW Local Union 302, is a true champion for women in the trades. As the first Business Agent of her local, she has broken down countless barriers and paved the way for other women to follow. Rachel is highly respected not only by her colleagues and peers, but also by the countless tradeswomen and tradesmen who have had the privilege of knowing and working alongside her. A leader by example, she has consistently demonstrated what it means to support, encourage, and uplift others. Rachel has also consistently shown up for The Boilermaker's Women at Work Committee, generously sharing her time, experience, and mentorship to inspire others to pursue leadership within the trades. Rachel's commitment to advancing opportunities for women and her willingness to help others succeed make her an exceptional mentor and role model to women in the trades throughout the Bay Area. Moreover, her relentless advocacy has not only inspired individual growth but has also contributed to a more inclusive and supportive environment within the entire industry. I commend Rachel for her exceptional service, tireless contributions, and unwavering dedication to the community, serving as an inspiration to others. On

behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Rachel Shoemake for her positive contributions to our community.