Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, I thank Chairman Neal and Ranking Member Brady for their hard work on this important piece of legislation.

The Securing a Strong Retirement Act of 2021 is bipartisan legislation that gives workers the tools they need to retire with the financial stability they deserve and worked so hard to obtain.

Importantly, this legislation allows individuals to pay down a student loan instead of contributing to a 401(k) plan while still receiving an employer match in their retirement plan.

I have heard from thousands of individuals in my district who are facing an overwhelming amount of student loan debt. These are people who are struggling to start their careers while also trying to pay off their loans. The SECURE Act provides the opportunity to make payments on their student loans now while also investing in their future.

I am proud to support this legislation that we are hearing today, and I thank you for this great bipartisan bill that you have put before us.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 6968 which will cut off oil and other energy imports from Russia which provide key support to Putin's war machine.

This bill stands in solidarity with the proud Ukrainian people fighting for their homeland and builds on President Bidens executive actions to ban Russian energy imports.

The crippling sanctions the Biden Administration has coordinated with our allies have isolated Russia to an unprecedented degree: are weakening Russia's ability to fund their illegal military offensive.

I believe that we can and should do even more. Although our European allies have moved quickly to support punishing sanctions against Russia and its corrupt leaders, other countries are providing aid and comfort by actually stepping up trade with Russia.

As we look to ratchet up the pressure on Russia to force them to stop the needless bloodshed, we need to ensure that every country is doing their part to help end this war and hold Russia accountable.

Mr. Speaker, as an original cosponsor of this bill, I urge my colleagues to vote yes to send a strong unified message that we are committed to doing everything we can to fight Russian aggression, stand with the Ukrainian people, and provide the military assist Ukraine desperately needs to defend itself.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Captain Tim Celli in celebration of his outstanding career in the Clearlake Police Department.

Captain Celli was raised in Clearlake, California, attending Burns Valley Elementary School, Oak Hill Middle School, and Lower Lake High School. His interest in law enforcement began at an early age and led him to become a youth explorer in 1986. After graduating high school, Captain Celli joined the California National Guard in 1993, serving as a military policeman in the 649th Military Police Company.

The next year, Captain Celli graduated from the police academy and began serving as a reserve police officer in the city of Waterford, California. In 1995, Captain Celli returned home to Clearlake and served as a reserve police officer and community service officer until 1999, when he was promoted to a full-time police officer. In his new role, he served as patrol officer, detective, field training officer, narcotics agent, explorer advisor, and president of the Clearlake Police Officers' Association.

In 2005, he was promoted to sergeant, supervising both the patrol unit and the Crime Suppression Unit, which was formed to address violent crime in Clearlake, California. In 2012, Captain Celli was promoted to Lieutenant, based on his excellent supervisory skills and his devotion to the community. In October 2015, Captain Celli took on the role of as interim chief of police, which he served as for over two years. In this role, he improved community engagement, introduced a dedicated traffic enforcement officer, addressed violent crime associated with illegal cannabis grows, and oversaw the department's response to numerous major fires.

In addition to being a devoted officer of the Clearlake Police Department, Captain Celli is an active community member through his participation in the Lion's Service Club and a devoted husband to his wife, Amanda, who he has been married to for 24 years. Additionally, he has served as a coach of youth football, high school football, and youth wrestling in Lake County. Captain Celli is retiring after a 26- year career in law enforcement.

Madam Speaker, it is evident that Captain Celli has dedicated his life to the people of Clearlake through his public service. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor him here today.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Rear Admiral Raymond Charles Smith, Jr. in celebration of his outstanding career in the U.S. Navy.

Rear Admiral Raymond Charles Smith, Jr. was born and raised in Vallejo, California, graduating from St. Vincent's High School in 1961. Admiral Smith began his career in the Navy in 1962. Shortly after enlisting, he attended the U.S. Naval Academy, which he graduated from in 1967. Later, in 1974, he earned a master's degree in Physical Oceanography from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California.

Admiral Smith served as First Lieutenant on USS Floyd B. Parks for two years before participating in Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL Training. After graduating from his SEAL Training in 1970, Admiral Smith served in a variety of positions on Underwater Demolition Team Thirteen, including as Ordinance Officer, Operations Officer, and Platoon Commander.

In August 1990, he deployed to the Arabian Gulf in response to the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait, where he led Naval Special Warfare Task Group Central during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Then in June 1992, he assumed command of Naval Special Warfare Command at Coronado, California, where he was responsible for over 2,300 SEALs and support personnel. From 1996 to 1998, Admiral Smith moved to Tampa, Florida, and served as both Director of Resources and the Deputy Commander-in- Chief of the Special Operations Command. He retired from active duty in 2001 after 34 years of service.

During his retirement, Admiral Smith devoted himself to his three passions: family, fitness, and community service. Admiral Smith was described as a great husband, father, and friend. He was married to his wife, Kathleen, for 54 years, with whom he had three sons: Raymond III, Nate, and Adam. Admiral Smith passed away peacefully at his home in Coronado, California, on February 6,2022.

Madam Speaker, it is evident that Rear Admiral Raymond Charles Smith, Jr. dedicated his life to military service and our country. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor him here today.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 735, my legislation to rename the Cotati Post Office in honor of the Pasta King, Arturo Luis Ibleto.

Art was the embodiment of the American Dream. Born in Italy, Art fought for resistance groups at the age of 17 against Nazi Germany and Fascists during World War II.

After valiantly serving his home country, Art immigrated to Sonoma County where he met his wife Vicki and they began a new life. They built a successful restaurant and catering business that became an institutional landmark and local residents affectionally started to refer to him as the ``Pasta King.''

During his time in Sonoma County, he raised over $500,000 for charitable causes. His commitment to the people of Sonoma County and our communities cannot be overlooked.

His work and philanthropy have left an indelible mark on Sonoma County which is why the City of Cotati asked that we recognize the legacy of Mr. Ibleto, and I am honored to help make this tribute possible.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Richard ``Rich'' Freedman in celebration of his longstanding career in journalism.

Upon graduating from Ygnacio Valley High School in Concord, California, and later from San Jose State University with a bachelor's in journalism, Mr. Freedman began a 27-year long career with the Vallejo Times-Herald. Largely inspired by his late professor, Roger Budrow, and his late father, Bernie, Mr. Freedman had an immense passion for every meaningful story.

While he ended his long and illustrious career with the Times-Herald as the Community Editor, he spent time covering the arts, sports, features, and wrote his own column. As the entertainment writer, he interviewed astronauts, authors, a CIA operative, singers, motivational speakers, and so many more.

In addition to Mr. Freedman's career with the Times-Herald, he spent much of his time serving his community. As a member of Reach Out Benicia, Contra Costa County Child Abuse Prevention Council, and the Benicia/Vallejo Humane Society, Mr. Freedman received an Honorable Mention from the Contra Costa Press Club and Humanitarian of the Year Award from the Vallejo Boys and Girls Club. He was also recognized by the California Army National Guard and received a California Commendation Medal.

Mr. Freedman and his wife, Megan, have three children, Toby, Charlotte, and Beau, and one son, Cameron, who passed away in 2020. Mr. Freedman, throughout his career, has been known for his sense of humor, his passion, and willingness to serve his community.

Madam Speaker, it is evident that Mr. Freedman has dedicated his life and career to the betterment of Vallejo, Benicia, and journalism. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor him here today.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Nikola ``Nick'' Voyvodich in celebration of his longstanding career in law enforcement.

Born in Oakland, California, at Oaknoll Naval Hospital, Nikola ``Nick'' Voyvodich was no stranger to the definition of bravery, as his father was wounded in action as a United States Marine. After receiving an associate of the arts degree from Ohlone College, on August 25, 1994, Mr. Voyvodich joined the Newark Police Department as a reserve officer, jump starting his career in law enforcement. A few years later, on March 2, 1994, Mr. Voyvodich became a full-time police officer with the Martinez Police Department.

His illustrious career included a strong dedication to training others in the law enforcement field and in defensive tactics, and so much more. He served as a member of the bicycle patrol team, detective, corporal, and a special agent in Central County Narcotic Enforcement Team (CNET), which is a team that specializes in narcotics. He was often accompanied by his beloved late K9 partner, Brit.

Mr. Voyvodich received two awards while serving as the President of the Police Officers Association, further highlighting his dedication to his community. He received a Chiefs Commendation in 2012 and a Life Saving Award in 2016. Specializing in narcotics, he worked tirelessly to maintain the safety of Martinez.

Mr. Voyvodich and his wife Melissa Voyvodich have six beautiful children: Austin, Elizabeth, Kaitlin, Christopher, Thomas, and

Dakota. Christopher and Thomas are currently serving in the United States Marine Corps. Mr. Voyvodich's family describes him as a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather. His tireless dedication has resonated with his family, his co-workers, and his community.

Madam Speaker, it is evident that Mr. Voyvodich has dedicated his life for the betterment and safety of the Martinez community through his service. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor him here today.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Kim Forrest to commemorate her 45 years of service with the United States Fish and Wildlife Service.

Raised in Seaside on the Monterey Peninsula of California, Kim Forrest's youth was marked by adventure, spending her days exploring the vast biodiversity of the Pacific coast. Each summer, Kim and her parents would camp in the High Sierra where her appreciation of wildlife grew. Shortly after her college graduation from Utah State University, Kim's steadfast admiration of wildlife led her to join the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as an entry level employee at Bear River National Wildlife Refuge (NWR). Later, Kim became acting Manager of Fish Springs NWR.

After a brief stint at the Charles M. Russell NWR in Montana, Kim returned to her home state of California where she became the primary manager of the Merced NWR in the San Joaquin Valley. Subsequently, she became Deputy Project Leader at the Sacramento NWR, supervising a crew of equipment operators and biologists. Furthermore, Kim became project leader at the San Luis NWR complex, a wildlife refuge with an area of 40,000 acres, establishing herself as a well-respected conservationist.

Kim's contributions to California wildlife are plentiful, including the development and acquisition of riparian zones, the elimination of invasive plant species, and the recovery of the endangered Riparian Brush Rabbit. Kim's conservation efforts are continued through her work to connect wildlife corridors and protect the wildlife that remains in California's Central Valley. November 11th marks Kim's 45th anniversary of working for the National Wildlife Refuge System.

Madam Speaker, it is evident that Kim Forrest has made an everlasting impact on Californian wildlife conservation efforts through years of dedicated service. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor her here today.

Mr. Speaker, this is historic legislation, one of the most impactful investments in American workers, families, and communities during my time in Congress.

This bill includes the most sweeping and ambitious climate policy ever passed by Congress--the GREEN Act, legislation I was proud to lead with my Democratic colleagues on the Committee on Ways and Means. It provides 4 weeks of paid family leave and funds universal pre-K. It extends the child tax credit, a tax cut for working families that has dramatically reduced child poverty since it was signed into law.

This bill makes healthcare premiums more affordable, provides tax incentives to improve disaster resiliency, and funds the VA so our veterans get the services they earned. And this bill is paid for.

The investments in this bill are too many to list; but it is just that, an investment. This bill will pay dividends for generations, and I urge everyone to pass the Build Back Better Act.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the Rotary Club of Vallejo as it celebrates its 100th year anniversary.

The Rotary Club of Vallejo was temporarily formed by 19 businessmen in July 1921 before its permanent admittance to Rotary International on November 6, 1921. As a part of Rotary International, the club's mission is to provide humanitarian service to the community through the improvement of health, support of education, and alleviation of poverty, while promoting high ethical standards, goodwill, and peace.

The Rotary Club of Vallejo promotes local programs, many that benefit the youth in the Vallejo community. They organized the Dictionary Program to give every third grader a dictionary within the Vallejo City Unified School District and in Vallejo private schools. With a goal to create strong leaders within the community, the Vallejo Rotary Club created a Youth Leadership Program where seven Vallejo high school students participate in a week-long program to learn leadership skills at an outdoor camp. The Club has also generously supported the ``Breakfast Club'' program, providing breakfast and a safe space to do homework for Vallejo's middle school students before the start of the school day.

Along with the services it has provided, the Rotary Club of Vallejo has also funded the development of many community projects, including the Mullen Theater at the Children's Wonderland Park and the flag pavilion and fountain at California Maritime Academy. Further, the club has generously contributed to the art mural in the children's section at the Vallejo John F. Kennedy Library, and a scholarship program for six graduating seniors.

Madam Speaker, there is no doubt that the Rotary Club of Vallejo's achievements and contributions have left a profound impact on the Vallejo community. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor it here today.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Ridge Greene, who demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the betterment of the Port Costa community in California's 5th Congressional District.

Born in Burlingame, CA, Mr. Greene spent years cruising the South Pacific before moving to Port Costa in Contra Costa County in the 1980s. Since his arrival, Port Costa has felt the impact of his tremendous compassion and dedication to community activism. As Senior Project Manager at RGM Karmer INC, Mr. Greene paved the way for large- scale construction projects for Bay Area School Districts. Utilizing his expertise in construction, he became a crucial member of the Port Costa Recycles, an innovative grassroots community recycling program.

Among a multitude of community involvements, Mr. Greene played a key role in the Port Costa Conservation Society as well as the restoration of the Port Costa School building. As a board member of the Port Costa Conservation Society, Mr. Greene helped save the historic, but physically neglected school building. He became the chairman of the board, and continually used his role as chairman to lead restoration efforts. Mr. Greene was vital in the planning and oversight of the construction work for the school building, and his knowledge of the State Historic Preservation Office's requirements proved invaluable in preserving the historic status of the Port Costa School.

After 30 years, Mr. Greene retired on April 15, 2021 from the Board of Directors of the Port Costa Conservation Society. Nonetheless, Mr. Greene continues to serve his community. His relentless will and caring heart have led him to serve as a construction consultant to the board. Additionally, Mr. Greene is a lifetime member of E Clampus Vitus, where he is described as a ``Clamper,'' and a retired member of the fire commission in Crockett-Carquinez's fire district. In retirement, he looks forward to traveling more with his wife, Monica, and spending time with his two loving children, Clare and Aaron.

Madam Speaker, it is no doubt that the historic 1911 Port Costa School will serve as a visual testimony to Mr. Greene's impact for generations to come. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor him here today.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Rob S. Weiss in recognition of his 25-year career at Mentis, Napa's oldest non-profit organization dedicated to providing affordable bilingual mental health services.

Born and raised in Los Angeles, California, Mr. Weiss earned his bachelor's degree in sociology from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) in 1989. He then entered UCLA's Master of Social Welfare (MSW) program, where he received his graduate degree in social welfare in 1995 and became a licensed clinical social worker. Early in his career, Mr. Weiss discovered a passion for helping those struggling with their emotional and mental health. In 1996, Mr. Weiss began working at Mentis, providing therapy and supportive structure for adults living with mental illness. As a result of Mr. Weiss' dedication and service, he was promoted first to clinical director and then to executive director of the agency in 2011. His tireless work and stewardship of the agency is reflected in the growth of the population Mentis serves each year, which has grown from a few hundred people a year to over 3,500 individuals.

In addition to aiding those with mental health illnesses, Mr. Weiss has dedicated time to support youth through coaching youth sports. His holistic philosophy to coaching has provided hundreds of young athletes with the mental and emotional skills to face challenges both on and off the court.

Mr. Weiss' numerous leadership roles include serving on the Providence Queen of the Valley Medical Center's Committee on Community Benefits to measure progress of the Center's community outreach health initiatives. Mr. Weiss has also served on the Adventist Health Community Health Needs Assessment Steering Committee to better understand the needs of his community. He is a member of both the Napa County Aging Population Initiative, a group dedicated to supporting older adults in Napa County, and the Community Leaders Coalition, a group that supports vulnerable populations in Napa County.

Madam Speaker, it is evident that Mr. Weiss has worked endlessly to serve the most vulnerable individuals in our community. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor him here today.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Elba Gonzalez-Mares in celebration of her 15th anniversary at Community Health Initiative (CHI) in Napa County.

Born in Puebla, Mexico, Ms. Gonzalez-Mares moved to California when she was just a year old, and now lives in Napa, California. She attended the University of California, Davis where she received her bachelor's degree in international relations in 2005. After finding her passion for helping the most vulnerable in her community, Ms. Gonzalez- Mares began working as a health access assistant at Community Health Initiative, a nonprofit organization dedicated to enrolling families in affordable health insurance plans. She then became the coordinator and manager for the organization before working her way up to becoming the executive director. She has expanded CHI from serving only the Napa community to serving several counties throughout California. As a result of her commitment to aiding underprivileged communities, Ms. Gonzalez-Mares has helped thousands of individuals and families gain access to quality health care coverage.

In addition to serving in her various roles at CHI, Ms. Gonzalez- Mares has held numerous positions dedicated to helping underserved communities. She became the board chair of California Coverage and Health Initiatives (CCHI), a statewide association that helps families navigate through affordable healthcare services. Ms. Gonzalez-Mares became commissioner for First 5 Napa County, a nonprofit that provides support services for early childhood development. She was also elected as the president of the Napa Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees. Ms. Gonzalez-Mares is a member of the Community Leaders Coalition, an organization that advocates for vulnerable populations within the Napa County community. Additionally, Ms. Gonzalez-Mares has assisted in creating a model for organizations similar to CHI to help individuals enroll in health care coverage and access health care services.

Madam Speaker, it is evident that Ms. Gonzalez-Mares has selflessly dedicated her career to helping Napa's most vulnerable communities. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor her here today.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor my good friend Art Ibeleto in commemoration of his substantial contributions to Sonoma County through his remarkable career as the Pasta King.

Art was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on October 2, 1926, but moved with his family to Sesta Godano, Italy, as a toddler. At age 17, he was drafted into Mussolini's Hitler-propped Republic of Salo Army, but shortly after joining the Army, he made the brave decision to join the Italian resistance and fight against the Fascists and Nazi Germany. Following the end of World War II, Art immigrated to Petaluma, California where he met his wife, Vicki Ghiradelli Ibeleto, and worked as a farmer, a mechanic, a truck driver, and a factory worker.

In 1961, Art purchased land in Sonoma County where he and his wife started building their business empire with a Christmas tree farm. In 1974, Art created the Spaghetti Palace as a booth at the Sonoma County Fair as a United Lodges, Sons of Italy project. As his booth grew in popularity, Art started building other businesses including a catering and freezer-case foods company, vineyards to grow premium wine grapes, and Art's Place, a popular Italian restaurant in Rohnert Park. As a restaurateur, Art gained notoriety for his savory dishes. He was dubbed the ``Pasta King'' by journalist Bill Soberanes and became known by that title for the rest of his career.

Art's contributions to the Sonoma County community extended beyond his entrepreneurial endeavors. Over multiple decades, Art held benefit pasta feeds that brought the community together to raise money for charitable, educational, and civil causes. Furthermore, Art co-founded the North Bay Italian Cultural Foundation and served as state president of the Order of the Sons and Daughters of Italy in America. For his contributions to the community, Art won a number of local, state, and congressional awards, including Representative Mike Thompson's Fifth Congressional District American Dream Award in 2017, and a lifetime achievement award from Senator Mike McGuire in 2018. In 2021, I introduced a bill to rename the Cotati Post Office after Art to honor his contributions to the Sonoma County community. The bill was passed through the House Oversight Committee and was reported out of the Committee on June 29.

Madam Speaker, there is no doubt that Art's innovative entrepreneurship and selfless service made a profound impact on Sonoma County. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor him here today.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor George M. Taber for his monumental contributions to the California wine community.

Born and raised in Riverside, California, in 1942, Mr. Taber attended Loyola High School in Los Angeles where he graduated in 1960. He then graduated from Georgetown University in 1964 where he received his BA in Political Science. One year later, Mr. Taber attained his Degree in European Studies while attending the College of Europe in Bruges, Belgium. Although he never moved back to California, he reconnected with his Californian roots after writing his article on the 1976 Judgement of Paris, an event that showcased California's finest wines in competition with top wines from France. At this event, Napa Valley Wineries took first prize for both their red and white wines. He was the only reporter who covered this event that forever changed California's standing in the wine community and attracted world-wide attention. The influence of Mr. Taber's reporting was so influential that the San Francisco Chronicle deemed his article as ``the most significant news story ever written about wine.''

As a hard-working and dedicated journalist, Mr. Taber dedicated 21 years of his life as a reporter and editor with TIME Magazine based in Bonn, Germany; Paris, France; Houston, Texas; and New York. With his growing love for wine, he went on to write several books, including ``Judgment of Paris: California vs. France and the Historic 1976 Paris Tasting That Revolutionized Wine'' and ``To Cork or Not to Cork,'' which won the Jane Grigson Award from the International Association of Culinary Professionals. This award is given to those who have demonstrated distinguished scholarship and research into cookbooks. Mr. Taber was also a finalist for the James Beard Award for best book on wine and alcohol and the Andrew Simon Award for best wine book.

Madam Speaker, it is evident that Mr. Taber's exemplary journalism has brought great prosperity to California's wine community. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor him here today.