Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Miriam Wong as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Ms. Wong is the founder and Executive Director of The Latina Center, a Richmond-based nonprofit organization she established in 1999 to empower and support Latina women across the San Francisco Bay Area. For more than two decades, she has dedicated her life to advancing leadership, healing, and opportunity within the Latino community. Under her leadership The Latina Center has become a trusted community institution devoted to improving the physical, mental, and spiritual health of Latina women and their families. In 2000, she founded Women, Health, and Leadership, a one-year leadership and community service program that began humbly in her own living room. What started as small gatherings to build peer support among Latina women has since grown into a transformative program that has graduated more than 420 women as Peer Leaders. The Latina Center's impact extends far beyond leadership training. Its programs provide parenting classes, mental health support, and resources for survivors of domestic violence, while also offering small business training and access to microloans to promote self-sufficiency. Graduates of The Latina Center's programs now serve as staff, volunteers, and board members, continuing the cycle of mentorship and empowerment that fulfills Ms. Wong's vision of community-led change. Ms. Wong's leadership is defined by empathy, inclusion, and cultural pride. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, I am honored to recognize Miriam Wong for her extraordinary leadership and her decades of service to Latina women and families throughout the Bay Area.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Regina Whitney as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year for her extraordinary public service and mentorship, for more than four decades she has advanced justice, equity, and opportunity for countless Californians. Regina began her professional journey as a legal secretary in family law, where for over a decade she supported attorneys and families facing some of life's most challenging circumstances. Her compassion and meticulous attention to detail reflected her belief that every person deserves dignity and fairness under the law. Building upon that foundation, Regina devoted more than 20 years to the California State Attorney General's Office, where she served with distinction in the Department of Justice. Her work supported major legal operations that safeguarded the rights of Californians and strengthened public trust in government. During this time, she helped organize Blacks in Government, a national network advocating for equity in public service. Regina's leadership within the organization opened pathways for advancement, mentoring, and professional development for countless Black employees across state agencies. Today, Regina continues her advocacy with SEIU Local 1000, one of California's largest and most influential public-sector unions. In her role as a leader in labor relations and organizing, she has fought tirelessly for fair contracts, safe workplaces, and respect for public employees. Her work has secured tangible gains in wages, benefits, and working conditions, improving the lives of thousands of workers and their families across the state. Beyond her professional achievements, Regina has spent decades serving her community through volunteerism and mentorship. She has long been involved with Battered Women's Alternatives, providing shelter and support for survivors of domestic violence; serves as Secretary of the Richmond Commission on Aging, advocating for seniors' health and dignity; and contributes her energy to the NAACP Richmond Branch, promoting civil rights and community empowerment. She has also led women's mentoring programs for many years, teaching self-confidence, etiquette, and leadership to young women entering adulthood. Through her compassion, professionalism, and leadership, she has demonstrated that true service is measured not by recognition, but by the lives uplifted and the opportunities created for others. Her impact on California's public institutions and her enduring mentorship of others represent the highest ideals of civic leadership and public service. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Regina Whitney for her invaluable contributions to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Jana Modena as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. With over 20 years of committed service to the community, Jana's work has already had lasting impacts and will continue to do so in the years to come. She currently serves as Special Project Coordinator for the Fairfield Suisun Chamber of Commerce, where she assists in leading strategic initiatives and community programs to support local business development and regional economic growth. Through this position, she takes the important and compassionate role of providing the necessary assistance and support to local businesses, in order to ensure their longevity, and thereby bring a positive impact to the Fairfield community. This position requires a high level of knowledge and expertise, which Jana is well-equipped for. Over the years, she has gained ample experience in similar, community- based positions such as Community Liaison and Director of Grant programs for Leaven Kids, CEO and Executive Director for the Benicia Chamber of Commerce, and Marketing and Advertising for Jelly Belly Candy Company. Jana also plays a major role in the civic engagement community, as she coordinates a Fairfield-Suisun Local Leaders Roundtable within her current position and has served as Senior Field Representative for Assemblymember Tim Grayson. Perhaps what makes Jana's refined, expert-level career so notable is the compassion that she brings to each of her positions and accomplishments. She has managed to overcome several life obstacles, including a breast cancer diagnosis, and even dedicates her time to be an advocate for betterment of our region through roles like: Vice Chair for the Measure J and S Oversight Committee, Advisory Board for the public Safety Academy, and Board Member for the 100 Club of Solano and Yolo counties. Jana's tenacity, leadership, mentorship, and commitment to public service will continue to impact the community in numerous ways, for the years to come. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Jana Modena for her positive contributions to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Jennie Mojica, recognized as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Jennie Mojica has made important contributions to the Filipino community in Vallejo and beyond. Ms. Mojica grew up in Vallejo, and while in high school, she created ``Phone Friends'' under the sponsorship of Filipino American Social Services, which was a hotline for elementary school-aged students. After earning her master's from Sacramento State University and a Project Management Certificate from Stanford, she joined Leadership Vallejo, where she now serves as a freelance consultant and senior project manager. Ms. Mojica played a central role in organizing Vallejo's largest free community festival, ``Pista Sa Nayon,'' which celebrates the diversity of the Filipino community. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Jennie Mojica for her invaluable contributions to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Joy Bruno, recognized as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. A beloved member of our community, Joy's life is a testament to service, compassion, and leadership. Since joining the Northern Solano Lodge No. 2534 of the Sons and Daughters of Italy in America in 1994, Joy has devoted over three decades to strengthening cultural heritage and community bonds. She has served as Lodge President two times and has held numerous leadership roles, including Vice President, Trustee, and Orator. Her commitment has also extended statewide, where she has served as State Deputy for several Northern California lodges and as a board member of the Grand Lodge of California. For over twenty years, Joy has chaired

the Lodge's Contra Costa and Solano Food Bank Committee, ensuring that vulnerable families receive the resources they need. Her boundless energy, optimism, and kindness have earned her the affectionate nickname ``the Energizer Bunny,'' reflecting a spirit that continues to inspire at the young age of 90. Joy's legacy of service lives on through the members she mentors and the countless lives she has touched through her generosity and leadership. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my honor to recognize Joy Bruno for her lifelong dedication to community, culture, and service.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Kari Birdseye, recognized as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Kari is a respected public servant, environmental advocate, and community leader whose commitment to civic engagement has made a lasting impact on the City of Benicia and the broader Solano County region. Elected to the Benicia City Council in 2022, Kari has served her community with distinction, building upon a decade of public service that began in 2012. She served on the Benicia Human Services Board for eight years and as Chair of the Benicia Planning Commission for six years. In addition to her local leadership, Kari currently serves on the Boards of Directors for the Green Empowerment Zone and Marin Clean Energy and is the incoming First Vice President of the League of California Cities, North Bay Division. She also contributes to regional policymaking as Southern County Vice Chair of the Solano County Democratic Central Committee Executive Board. Beyond her civic work, Kari has built an accomplished career as Regional Media Director for the Natural Resources Defense Council, leading a team that bridges environmental science and public communication. A former CNN journalist and Emmy Award recipient for coverage of the 1996 Olympic Park bombing, Kari brings a wealth of experience in storytelling, environmental management, and public outreach. She holds a bachelor's degree in journalism from San Francisco State University and a Master of Science in Environmental Management from the University of San Francisco. Kari's leadership is characterized by persistence and heart. After losing her

first bid for city council, she persevered and ultimately earned the trust of her community. Through her integrity, vision, and dedication, Kari Birdseye continues to inspire those around her to serve with courage and purpose. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my honor to recognize Kari Birdseye for her exemplary service and unwavering commitment to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Katherine Stokes, recognized as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Katherine is an innovator, entrepreneur, and community leader whose compassionate vision has reshaped how care, education, and service are delivered across California. As the founder and CEO of Spongies Comfort, a medical innovation company based in California, Katherine has brought humanity and creativity to healthcare. Katherine's invention of the Spongies Heart Armrest, a reusable, medical-grade cushion is now used in oncology, infusion, and radiology departments across leading hospitals such as Stanford, Kaiser, and UCSF. Her simple yet transformative design has improved patient comfort, reduced anxiety, and supported healthcare providers in delivering more compassionate care. Beyond her entrepreneurial achievements, Katherine serves on the Board of Directors of A Loving Organization Consortium (ALOC), a nonprofit dedicated to transforming healthcare systems from fear-based to love-based operations. She is also the founder of Innovation Rewards in School (IRIS), an educational initiative that teaches middle school students creativity, entrepreneurship, and purpose-driven leadership. Locally, Katherine coaches youth soccer for the Solano County Surf Soccer Club and continues to donate Spongies cushions to under-resourced clinics, children's hospitals, and veteran care facilities, providing comfort where it is needed most. Her latest project, a purple Heart Armrest and under-knee wedge, designed specifically for veterans, honors service members with dignity and care. Through every endeavor, Katherine exemplifies integrity, empathy, and resilience. She approaches every challenge with grace, turning obstacles into opportunities to serve. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my privilege to recognize Katherine Stokes for her groundbreaking innovation, compassionate leadership, and unwavering dedication to uplifting others.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Lakisha Mitchell- Keith, recognized as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. A proud Richmond native and third-generation member of the Mitchell family, renowned for civic and faith-based service, Lakisha has long exemplified leadership rooted in purpose and compassion. Her 15-year career as a federal law enforcement officer and supervisor with the Department of Justice and Department of Homeland Security demonstrated integrity, professionalism, and an enduring commitment to justice and safety. After her federal service, Lakisha earned her Juris Doctor from Golden Gate University School of Law with a specialization in Public Interest Law, preparing her to advance equity and uplift underserved communities. She brings that same passion to her volunteer and advocacy work across Richmond and the Bay Area. A lifelong member of Bethel AME Church in San Francisco, she serves in multiple leadership roles, including President of the Lay Organization, Trustee Board Member, and is a part of the Stewardship & Finance Commission and Strategic Planning Team. She also holds regional leadership positions in the California Annual Conference Lay Organization and the Conference Board of Trustees. In 2025, she embraced a new chapter in her spiritual journey, becoming a licensed Licentiate in the AME Church. Lakisha's recent advocacy at Stege Elementary School further demonstrates her drive for educational justice. As a School Site Council member, she helped bring visibility to longstanding facility concerns and was a key force behind renewed public commitment to the school's future. Whether in law enforcement, legal advocacy, faith leadership, or local activism, Lakisha Mitchell- Keith brings courage, vision, and integrity to everything she does. Her life's work reflects the highest ideals of public service. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my honor to recognize Lakisha Mitchell-Keith for her devotion to justice, community empowerment, and spiritual service.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Latyna Young, recognized as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Dr. Young is a lifelong educator, community leader, and advocate whose 45-year career in education has left an enduring mark on Vallejo and Solano County. Elected to the Vallejo City Unified School District Board of Trustees in 2020, where she represents Area 4, Dr. Young's leadership reflects her deep commitment to equity, empowerment, and excellence in education. A proud graduate of Vallejo schools herself, she began her career in the same district as a teacher before serving as coordinator, vice principal, principal, and director of student support services. Though retired from full-time service, she continues to champion educational opportunity and student success as a trustee and mentor to the next generation of educators. Beyond her service to the school district, Dr. Young is President of Fighting Back Partnership, a nonprofit organization dedicated to ending poverty and strengthening families in Vallejo and across Solano County. She is also an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (Kappa Beta Omega Chapter), the California Association of African American Superintendents and Administrators (CAAASA), and the Solano-Napa Chapter of Black Women Organized for Political Action (BWOPA). Dr. Young's academic achievements are as impressive as her professional record--holding two master's degrees, in early childhood and special education from Sonoma State University and in counseling from the University of La Verne, along with a doctorate in educational leadership in urban schools. Her lifetime of service embodies perseverance, compassion, and faith in the transformative power of education. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, I am proud to honor Dr. Latyna Young for her remarkable leadership, her dedication to the Vallejo community, and her lifelong commitment to public service.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Lisa Nelson- Bonnington, recognized as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. In addition to being a prominent business leader and community advocate, Lisa currently serves as the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Fairfield-Suisun Chamber of Commerce. With more than thirty years of experience in marketing, public relations, and organizational management, Lisa has dedicated her career to strengthening local economies and supporting small businesses across the Bay Area. Prior to her current role, she served as President and CEO of the Martinez Chamber of Commerce and as Vice President of the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce, where she championed initiatives to promote economic growth and workforce development. As an active participant in the Western Association of Chamber Executives Academy, Lisa brings both expertise and passion to her work fostering collaboration between businesses, government, and community organizations. Since joining the Fairfield-Suisun Chamber in 2024, she has focused on expanding outreach to local entrepreneurs and strengthening partnerships that enhance economic vitality for both Fairfield and Suisun City. Lisa's work is rooted in inclusion and long- term sustainability, ensuring that every sector of the community has a voice in shaping its shared prosperity. Through her service, Lisa continues to embody integrity, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to empowering others. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Lisa Nelson-Bonnington for her outstanding leadership and unwavering dedication to economic and community development.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Lt. Col. Brenda Strength as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year for her exceptional leadership, operational excellence, and dedicated service to both the United States Air Force and the Northern California community. Lt. Col. Strength leads a team of 372 military and civilian personnel in managing the Air Mobility Command's largest logistics portfolio, valued at over $983 million. Under her leadership, her unit executed over 58,000 passenger movements and transported more than 5 million pounds of cargo, while simultaneously planning and executing 12 high-priority Presidential support missions, mobilizing 123 personnel across 22 locations in less than 24 hours. She played a pivotal role in finalizing a 15-year modernization effort involving the transfer of 3,000 legacy weapons systems across three wings. Through innovative joint training with the U.S. Marine Corps, she established three cross- service exercises and embedded 25 Air Force reservists into five critical logistics functions, enhancing operational readiness and joint interoperability. Her logistical acumen led to major advancements: a 30 percent reduction in overdue parts in the ``Due In From Maintenance'' program, a 15 percent increase in Specialized Fueling qualifications, and the resolution of a vital Base Exchange agreement benefiting over 135,000 members of the Travis AFB community. Further demonstrating her strategic foresight, Lt. Col. Strength oversaw a zero-cost warehouse floor plan redesign that consolidated 124 locations for 11,000 line items, resolved 132 asset discrepancies, and bolstered the Air Force's largest mobility account. Her innovation directly enabled a 26 percent increase in qualified aircrew by resolving a 9-month gap in hot refuel kit certification. Beyond her military service. Lt. Col. Strength has strengthened community bonds by encouraging squadron engagement in local volunteerism, including youth mentorship, highway cleanups, STEM and robotics initiatives, and support for local athletics and the arts. Her commitment to community partnerships highlights the Air Force's enduring connection to the people it serves. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Lt. Col. Brenda Strength for her invaluable contributions to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Lucinda Bazile, recognized as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. As Chief Executive Officer of Cancer Support Community San Francisco Bay Area, Lucinda has dedicated her life to advancing health equity, expanding access to care, and empowering those affected by cancer and chronic illness. With over three decades of experience in community health and nonprofit leadership, she has built a legacy defined by compassion, integrity, and impact. Prior to leading Cancer Support Community, Lucinda served as Deputy Director at Lifelong Medical Care, where she helped establish key departments, including Human Resources, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, AmeriCorps, Outreach, Compliance, and Marketing. Her leadership strengthened partnerships among healthcare providers, community organizations, and public institutions, ensuring that underserved populations, especially seniors and communities of color, receive the care and dignity they deserve. Deeply motivated by personal experience, Lucinda transformed loss into purpose, becoming a tireless advocate for early diagnosis, patient education, and culturally competent care. A proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., she mentors young women, broadens pathways into healthcare careers, and continues to champion diversity and inclusion in medicine. Her advocacy extends beyond professional settings as she remains an active volunteer supporting seniors and families throughout the Bay Area. Through her unwavering commitment to health justice and community empowerment, Lucinda Bazile exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose and compassion. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my honor to recognize Lucinda Bazile for her invaluable contributions to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize former First Sergeant Delphine Metcalf-Foster as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year for her trailblazing military service, steadfast advocacy for veterans, and lifelong commitment to public service. A native of Vallejo, California, First Sergeant (Ret.) Delphine Metcalf-Foster proudly served in the United States Army Reserve with the 689th Quartermaster Unit, 6253rd Hospital Unit, and 6211th Transportation Unit at the Letterman Army Medical Center. During Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm, she sustained injuries while serving in Saudi Arabia in support of the Grave Registration Company mission and was medically evacuated to Germany for care. Her service and courage reflect the highest traditions of the U.S. Armed Forces. Following her retirement from the Army Reserves in 1996, Ms. Metcalf-Foster continued to dedicate her life to veterans causes and public service. A life member of Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Chapter 81 in Vallejo, she made history in 2017 when she was elected National Commander of the DAV. The first woman and the first person of color to hold that position in the organization's 100-year history. She previously served as the DAV Department of California Commander in 2003, again breaking barriers as the first woman to hold that role. Her distinguished civilian career includes decades of leadership at the Alameda Naval Air Station, where she served as a quality assurance work leader. Ms. Metcalf-Foster has also lent her expertise to numerous veterans' advisory bodies, including the Secretary of Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee on Women Veterans, the DAV Department of California Claims and Service Committee, and the First Data Military Advisory Council. Among her many honors, she has received the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal (10LC), National Defense Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal, and the Southwest Asia Service Medal with Bronze Star. In 2018, she was recognized as one of the ``Top 40 Military People'' in the United States for her impact in helping veterans. Her favorite quotes, ``Tell me what I can't do, and I will show you what I can do,'' and ``I had to go through, in order to get to,'' embody the spirit of resilience and purpose that defines her life and service. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize First Sergeant (Ret.) Delphine Metcalf-Foster for her courageous service to our nation and her extraordinary contributions to the veterans' community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Dr. Nicola Parr as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Dr. Nicola ``Nikki'' Parr for her exemplary leadership and service to students and families across Solano County. Dr. Parr is a lifelong educator and public servant whose 25-year career in education has been defined by equity, compassion, and a deep commitment to student well-being. A proud graduate of the Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District, Dr. Parr now serves as the Interim Solano County Superintendent of Schools and is the first African American woman to hold this position in the County's history. Her leadership reflects both professional excellence and personal dedication to the community that raised her. She also served as Senior Director of Student Services and Educational Options at the Solano County Office of Education, where she led programs supporting school-based mental health, foster and homeless youth, and at-promise students. Prior to joining the Solano County Office of Education, Dr. Parr spent eight years with the Vacaville Unified School District as an Alternative Education Principal and Director of Student Services, where she strengthened alternative pathways and wraparound supports for students facing unique challenges. She has also served as a trustee for the Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District Board, demonstrating her lifelong investment in local education. A passionate advocate for mental health and equity in schools, Dr. Parr has presented at statewide conferences on multi- tiered systems of support and cross-agency collaboration. Her accomplishments are grounded in both scholarship and service--holding a Doctor of Education from Capella University, a master's degree, and a bachelor's degree from Old Dominion University. Dr. Parr's leadership is marked by empathy, innovation, and resilience, guiding Solano County's schools through both challenge and change. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, I am proud to recognize Dr. Nicola Parr for her historic leadership, her unwavering dedication to student success, and her lifelong commitment to the advancement of equitable education in Solano County. It is my pleasure to honor and recognize Dr. Nicola Parr for her historic leadership and unwavering dedication to student success.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Alize Johnson as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Alize has served her community of Solano County in several meaningful capacities. Despite losing her mother at a young age, she turned her pain into purpose and has dedicated her life to uplifting others through service, advocacy, and leadership. Her impactful service began by advocating for other youth in the community, as a Youth Community Organizer with CCISCO and as a student representative on the West Contra Costa Unified School District's LCAP Committee. However, this was only the beginning of her work, making her a champion in advocacy for equity in education. Alize continued to open doors for inner-city youth as a recruiter for ONYX Scholars, where she assisted in providing access to HBCUs and career opportunities. She has transformed personal adversity into community empowerment, emboldening those she works with to do the same, primarily by leading by example. Her work with Keyz 2 Future and Motivated 2 Help Others(M2HO) exemplifies this exceptional leadership, as she mentors youth affected by gun violence and helps those in need. Alize's resilience has also taken her beyond the scope of her local work, as she has amplified issues of youth empowerment, environmental justice, and gun safety laws through various platforms, including Miss California USA 2024, Delegate for Miss Earth 2025, and as part of the Everytown National Training Team. Alize is a dedicated member of the community, an ardent supporter of youth opportunities, and her collective work makes Solano County a better place for everyone. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Alize Johnson for her positive contributions to our community.