Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize Shannon Starzyk for her years of tireless service and unwavering dedication to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. As she retires from her role at the Contra Costa Family Justice Center, I would like to commend Shannon for her extraordinary contributions to justice, advocacy, and support for the most vulnerable in our community.

Throughout her career, Shannon has been a fierce advocate for those seeking safety and justice. Her leadership has been critical in providing comprehensive services that empower survivors and guide them toward healing. She has worked closely with law enforcement, social service providers, legal professionals, and community organizations to build a collaborative network dedicated to breaking the cycle of violence.

Shannon's compassion and determination have directly impacted countless lives. Whether through policy advocacy, crisis intervention, or program development, she has continually prioritized the needs of survivors, ensuring they have access to legal assistance, emergency shelter, counseling, and long-term support. Her dedication to intersectional and trauma-informed care has set a high standard for victim advocacy and community-driven solutions.

As Shannon embarks on this next chapter, we celebrate the incredible impact she has had in our community. I am confident that her influence will continue to shape the work of the Contra Costa Family Justice Center and the broader movement to end violence in our communities.

Please join me in extending our deepest gratitude to Shannon Starzyk for her years of devoted service.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Reverend Phil Lawson, a civil rights leader, pastor, tireless advocate for social justice, mentor, and friend.

From a young age, Reverend Lawson committed himself to faith and peace, studying nonviolent direct action under the leadership of Bayard Rustin. He emerged as a powerful voice for civil rights, participating in events like the historic 1965 Selma to Montgomery marches alongside his friend, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

After leading a Methodist parish in Kansas City, Reverend Lawson took a job with the city of Berkeley, California. He later served in roles at two local Methodist parishes before being appointed to lead the Easter Hill United Methodist Church in Richmond, California. His work on social justice issues earned him recognition as the Contra Costa County Humanitarian of the Year in 2003.

After a distinguished life of service, Reverend Lawson passed away earlier this year at the age of 92. He will be remembered for his outstanding character and his deep impact on this country and our community in California.

I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Reverend Phil Lawson.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life and service of Thurman Gupton, who was a compassionate mentor, dedicated community leader, and advocate for positive change. Thurman leaves a legacy of service in Contra Costa County and beyond.

Thurman dedicated his life to uplifting others, particularly young men navigating fatherhood. Through his role as Mentor Coordinator at the Family Wellness Center and his tireless work on the ``Young Men as Fathers'' program, he transformed lives by providing incarcerated and at-risk young fathers with essential parenting skills and mentoring opportunities. Thurman believed that it was critical to break cycles of neglect and dysfunction and foster better futures for families in our community. His dedication to the program left an indelible mark on the young men who worked alongside him. Through the program's structured guidance, he helped many young men in developing a greater sense of purpose and community as they built parenting skills, fostered emotional growth, and set positive examples for their children.

Furthermore, Mr. Thurman Gupton was a dedicated advocate for equity and community empowerment, reflected in his active participation in the Black Families Association, the

Black Student Union, and his service on the Equal Employment Opportunity Advisory Council. Through these roles, he championed resources, guidance, and educational opportunities for the Black community while advocating for workplace equity and fair hiring practices.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Thurman was a man of varied and profound interests that reflected his deep commitment to his community and personal growth. He was an avid reader and writer, often using his talents to contribute to civic and community functions. Additionally, his faith inspired his actions, and he took great pride in being a supportive and engaged member of his congregation.

Thurman's life will be remembered for his outstanding character and his devotion to our community. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched through his mentorship, education, and advocacy. Please join me in honoring Thurman Gupton.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Bill Whitney as he retires from the Contra Costa Building & Construction Trades Council, AFL-CIO.

Throughout his life, Bill has demonstrated his dedication to his family and community. He was born in Erie, Pennsylvania and worked on his family's farm alongside his three brothers. The family moved around Pennsylvania before eventually settling in Walnut Creek, California when Bill was twelve years old. Bill attended Ygnacio Valley High School and went on to earn his degree in Zoology from the University of California, Davis. While attending U.C. Davis, he was deeply involved in sports and other extracurricular activities, including football, baseball, basketball, tennis, and swimming. His commitment to service was evident though his participation in Boy Scouts, Key Club, and his fraternity, Theta Xi.

Bill moved to Benicia in 1977, where he was a devoted advocate for his community. Bill was a proud member of the Lions Club, Rotary Benicia historical Society, and the Chamber of Commerce. His dedication to public service was exemplified by his election to the Benicia City Council, where he served from 1999 to 2007.

Bill has been a powerful advocate for working people throughout his career, having been a member of three unions: the Retail Clerks Union, Inland Boatman Union, and United Association of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry. In each of these organizations, he played a pivotal role in advancing workers' rights, improving workplace conditions, and ensuring fair wages for workers. His work has been critical in expanding economic opportunities for working families and in preparing our workforce for the jobs of the 21st century. Additionally, as an ERISA trust fund trustee, Bill worked diligently to protect workers' pensions and retirement security. Bill has been a key figure in the labor movement in California and beyond and his leadership has benefitted countless workers.

As Bill steps into retirement, we recognize a lifetime of service, advocacy, and leadership. Please join me in thanking Bill for his remarkable service and wishing him the very best in his well-earned retirement.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the service and extraordinary life of long-time community leader and commissioned 2nd Lieutenant, Gerald ``Jerry'' Yahiro. Jerry was a remarkable human being who dedicated his life to his country, his community, and his fellow veterans. Born in Wailuku, Hawaii in 1943 to Yoshisuki and Miyuki Yahiro, Jerry throughout his life exemplified the values of service, leadership, and compassion.

Jerry graduated from St. Anthony High School in Maui and went on to Seattle University where he earned his degree in Political Science. He answered the call of duty and served our Nation with honor as a 2nd lieutenant in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War from June 1967 to June 1968. He displayed extraordinary courage and commitment on behalf of his fellow soldiers and his country.

Following his military service, Jerry moved to California and began a career in marketing and sales. Upon retirement, Jerry began his ``second career'' and was a tireless advocate for veterans and military families. As president of the Viet Nam Veterans of Diablo Valley (VNVDV) from 2010 through 2011 and later as event director from 2013 through 2024, Jerry provided critical services to veterans in need. He co-founded the East Bay Stand Down (EBSD) which has supported countless initiatives for the veteran community. Additionally, Jerry served on the board of trustees for the Veterans Memorial Building of San Ramon Valley, in Danville.

Jerry is survived by his life partner of 35 years, Patti Kintz, and his brother, Michael Yahiro. His legacy of kindness and service will be remembered by all those who knew him. Please join me in recognizing Jerry Yahiro for his incredible impact on our community.

Mr. Speaker, immediately after taking office, the current President granted sweeping pardons and commutations to over 1,500 insurrectionists who stormed the Capitol on January 6, 2021.

At least 174 police officers were injured while protecting the Capitol that day, and 5 officers who responded later died.

One of the people the President deemed fit to be released from prison shot a stun gun directly into the neck of an officer, causing him to suffer a heart attack and sustain a traumatic brain injury. Another attacked officers with bear spray. After being released for these crimes, he is now at large for allegedly soliciting a minor in 2016.

I was one of the last Members who was evacuated from this building on January 6. I have vivid memories, as many of us do, of the Capitol Police officers battered and exhausted but still defending us.

The decision to grant clemency to many violent and dangerous individuals is an affront to our democracy, our justice system, and the brave police officers who defended us that day and every day.

Mr. Speaker, I ask Members and Americans to reflect on this decision.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to call attention to the continued suffering and amazing destruction caused by wildfires in southern California and the critical need for this body and for the President to aid those Americans affected by this natural disaster.

Over 16,000 homes and structures were destroyed in the L.A. fires, and at one point, 200,000 residents were under evacuation orders. Severe drought and powerful winds made firefighters' jobs even more difficult.

While we should be discussing how we, as Americans, help other Americans, as we have always done in other disasters, somehow we have gotten districted with political theater and trying to score political points.

Successful recovery from any disaster wherever it is takes cooperation across all levels of government. We have done it before, and we can do it again. We can't afford to waste time with political games or unnecessary conditions on aid.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues on both sides to do the right thing and deliver aid to their fellow Americans who have had their lives upended by tragedy.

Mr. Speaker, I regret that I was unable to vote today, as I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 34, on the motion to recommit on H.R. 26, the Protecting American Energy Production Act, and NAY on Roll Call No. 35, H.R. 26, the Protecting American Energy Production Act.

personal explanation

Mr. Speaker, I regret that I was unable to vote today as I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 32, Amendment No. 2 to H.R. 27 and NAY on Roll Call No. 33, H.R. 27, the HALT Fentanyl Act.

Personal Explanation

Mr. Speaker, I regret that I was unable to vote today, as I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 30, on ordering the previous question on H. Res. 93, and NO on Roll Call No. 31, H. Res. 93, the Rule providing for consideration of H.R. 27, the HALT Fentanyl Act.

personal explanation

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Brother Ronald Gallagher who passed away earlier this month after a distinguished life of service to Lasallian education.

Brother Ron was a son of California. He took his final vows in 1972 and went on to earn his Ph.D. in comparative literature. He began teaching at the high school level before joining the faculty at Saint Mary's College of California in the early 1980s.

After a successful teaching career, Brother Ron served as the college's president from 2005 until 2013. As president emeritus after his term as president, he oversaw academic and athletic facility improvements. Brother Ron was honored for his work during all of that time with the naming of the Brother Ron Gallagher Baseball Stadium at Saint Mary's.

Brother Ron will be remembered for his vocation, for his sense of humor, love of sports, and passion for literature. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Brother Ronald Gallagher for a life of unwavering commitment to service, education, his faith, and his community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life of Debbie Shess.

Debbie was a devoted mother and wife and a tireless advocate for her community. She was a dedicated parent, serving as the Elementary School Auction Chair at her children's schools and cheering her sons on as a De La Salle Baseball Mom. Throughout her life, she continually exemplified her commitment to service and was highly active in the community. Debbie was critical in organizing the Contra Costa County Wine, Women, and Shoes Event which worked with businesses to raise money for local non-profits. She also played a key role in her husband Zac's campaign for Pleasant Hill City Council, serving as his Assistant Campaign Manager and helping to organize community events, parades, and fundraisers.

When she was diagnosed with breast cancer, Debbie became a strong advocate for breast cancer awareness. She took part in the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer Awareness and served as a Breast Cancer Representative, always willing to provide support and comfort to others facing cancer.

Sadly, Debbie passed away at the age of 59 on October 7, 2024. She is survived by her loving husband, Zac and her children, Cole and Jackson. She will be remembered for her outstanding character, kind spirit, and compassion. Please join me in recognizing Debbie Shess for her many contributions to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life and service of Pam Kessler.

Pam was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan and graduated from the University of Colorado, Boulder. She worked in television in the Denver area before relocating to the Bay Area in the 1980s with her husband, Anthony. Pam and Anthony were highly active in the community and raised their two children, Lauren and

David, in Walnut Creek. At this time, Pam made a career shift toward sales and marketing. She served as President and Publisher of Walnut Creek Magazine for over ten years, highlighting the City's residents and businesses. Pam has been a fierce advocate for our local businesses and her work has helped to bring community members together and spotlight local history, entertainment, restaurants, and more. As small newspapers and news outlets become more scarce, Pam's efforts to support local journalism have been critical in keeping our community connected and the public informed on local issues. Through her work with the magazine, Pam has fostered a strong and vibrant community in Walnut Creek and beyond.

Outside of her work with Walnut Creek Magazine, Pam was a devoted wife and mother. Additionally, she continually demonstrated her commitment to service, supporting local education and youth sports and often engaging in volunteer and philanthropic efforts. In her free time, she loved walking the East Bay's beautiful trails with her dog, Sadie.

Sadly, Pam passed away in January 2025. She will be remembered for her passion, leadership, and her deep love for this community. Please join me in honoring Pam Kessler for her many contributions to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life of Debra Gonsalves.

Throughout her life, Debra demonstrated her deep love for her family, friends, and her community. She was a proud alumna of Clayton Valley High School, often attending football games and sporting her CVHS jacket. Debra adored her family and was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She often volunteered at her daughters' schools, helping to plant flowers and leading yard duty. She regularly attended her children and grandchildren's sporting events and organized family gatherings. Additionally, she loved to travel and often visited Cabo San Lucas, Mexico where she was affectionately known as ``Miss Debra''. When Cabo was impacted by hurricanes, Debra worked quickly to provide support to victims and organize relief efforts. Debra's kindness and compassion were evident to all who knew her.

Sadly, Debra passed away at the age of 70 on October 4, 2024. She is survived by her husband of 48 years, Steve Gonsalves; her daughters, Kelli Dupell (Josh) and Jennifer Herrera (Brandon); her grandchildren, Whitney, Andrew, Steven, Camden, and Paige; her mother, Marie Culum; her sisters, Demery Donovan, Denise Willett, and Diane Culum; her brothers, Frank Culum, Donald Culum, and David Davi; as well as numerous in-laws, nieces and great-nieces, nephews, and great-nephews.

Debra will be remembered for her warm and caring nature and her heart of gold. Please join me in recognizing Debra Gonsalves for her incredible impact on our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life and service of Brother Ronald Gallagher. Ronald was born in Oakland, California and grew up in Santa Cruz and Central California. He later moved to Napa, California where he attended the Christian Brothers Juniorate at Mont La Salle. Ronald entered the Novitiate in 1964 then took his final vows in 1972.

He received his B.A. from Saint Mary's College, his M.A. from San Francisco State University, and his PhD in Comparative Literature from the University of Washington. Shortly after earning his Masters, Brother Ron became a teacher, going on to shape generations of students. He was a devoted educator and encouraged students to grow both academically and spiritually. He taught at Saint Mary's College High School in Berkeley, Justin-Siena in Napa, and joined Saint Mary's College faculty as a professor of English in the early 1980s.

Brother Ron was a monumental figure at Saint Mary's College and his authenticity and commitment to faith were evident to all who knew him. He served as Residence Hall Director and Assistant to the President before serving as the 28th President of Saint Mary's College from 2005 through 2013. During his tenure as President, Ronald spearheaded the construction of the Kalmanovitz School of Education building, improvements to Oliver Hall, and the creation of the Athletics and Recreation Corridor. He returned to the college in 2018 as President Emeritus where he remained involved in campus activities and continued supporting the college's mission. In 2023, the college's newly renovated baseball facility was named Brother Ronald Gallagher Stadium in recognition of his outstanding service.

Further, Ronald served as Vice Chancellor of Bethlehem University in Palestine and as Secretary General of the global Lasallian Institute. He was a regular attendee at Collegiate Seminar retreats at the Russian River and Huntington Lake and started a class at Saint Mary's to share his love of Irish literature and culture with students. Additionaljy, Brother Ron was known for his sense of humor, love of sports, and passion for literature.

Sadly, Ronald passed away on January 4, 2025. He will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to service, education, and his faith. Please join me in recognizing Brother Ronald Gallagher for his indelible impact on our community.