Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Linda Neal, who has been named the 2025 Agriculturist of the Year by the Napa County Farm Bureau. Ms. Neal is being recognized for her decades of dedicated service and lasting contributions to Napa Valley's agricultural community.

Ms. Neal's path to agriculture began after her family moved from Orange County to Oakdale in Stanislaus County during her childhood. Inspired by local students involved in farming, she joined the Future Farmers of America (FFA) at Oakdale High School, where she earned a State Farmer Degree and numerous awards. Ms. Neal has often said that everything good in her life can be traced back to her involvement with FFA, where she came to see agriculture as the only truly essential industry. She went on to earn an Associate of Science degree in Agricultural Business and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business, graduating summa cum laude, and became a licensed Pest Control Adviser.

Ms. Neal arrived in Napa Valley in 1983, where she initially worked as a sales representative for the French agricultural manufacturer Rhone Poulenc. Soon after, she and her then-husband, Michael Neal, co- founded M&L Vineyard Management, which began with a single quarter-acre vineyard and grew to manage more than 1,000 acres for renowned wineries including Cakebread, Mondavi, and Opus One. In 1986, she represented Napa County at the California Farm Bureau Federation competition in Monterey, earning first

place in debate. The following year, she became a member of the Napa County Farm Bureau and purchased an agricultural property in Oakville. By 1989, she had terraced the hillside and planted four acres of Cabernet Sauvignon on the property her vineyard crew would later name Tierra Roja for its distinctive red volcanic soil.

After two decades leading M&L Vineyard Management, Ms. Neal turned her focus to her own properties. She operated Mellowood Vineyard in El Dorado County before selling the winery in 2018 to concentrate fully on Tierra Roja. Working closely with vineyard manager Ruben Rubio, Ms. Neal manages every aspect of her four-acre vineyard year-round, with each vine individually tended. She produces about 250 cases annually of highly regarded Cabernet Sauvignon from what has been called ``Magic Hill'' for its location among Oakville's most celebrated vineyards.

In addition to her professional success, Ms. Neal has been a driving force for agricultural education and community engagement. Twenty-five years ago, she worked with local farmers, including Larry Bettinelli, to establish the Agriculture Program at St. Helena High School, where she served as treasurer, secretary, and fundraiser. What began as a vision for a single classroom has grown into a three-teacher program with more than half of St. Helena High School's students participating. Ms. Neal was also elected by local farmers to serve on the USDA Farm Service Agency Committee, where she advocated for agricultural producers across the region. Throughout her career, she has mentored many young people entering agriculture, giving individuals who are now industry leaders their first start in the field.

Ms. Neal's commitment to service extended beyond our Napa Valley when she joined the Peace Corps in 2018 and served in Morocco until 2020, sharing her agricultural expertise with communities abroad before returning to continue her work here at home.

Mr. Speaker, through decades of work in viticulture, dedication to agricultural education, and commitment to mentoring the next generation of farmers, Linda Neal has made lasting contributions to our Napa Valley's agricultural community. It is fitting and proper that we honor her here today as the Napa County Farm Bureau's 2025 Agriculturist of the Year.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Lower Putah Creek Coordinating Committee, an outstanding organization in our community. Their 25 years of dedicated service and commitment to restoring Putah Creek demonstrate why they deserve recognition today.

The Lower Putah Creek Coordinating Committee (LPCCC) was established in 2000 under the Putah Creek Accord, a landmark water settlement adopted following years of legal action between Solano County water users and Yolo County environmental advocates. The Accord mandated year-round flows to protect fish and wildlife resources while respecting landowner water rights. The Committee was created to oversee implementation of the settlement, hire a permanent streamkeeper, and coordinate creek studies and restoration. The LPCCC represents the Boards of Supervisors of Solano and Yolo Counties, the Cities of Davis, Fairfield, Suisun, Vacaville, Vallejo and Winters, the Solano County Water Agency, the Solano Irrigation District, the Maine Prairie Water District, the University of California, Davis, the Putah Creek Council and riparian landowners. The Committee's mission is to protect, monitor, and enhance the resources of lower Putah Creek within the framework of the Accord while serving as a forum for dialogue among stakeholders.

The Committee's commitment to our community is clear from their extensive restoration work. Lower Putah Creek stretches 30 miles from below Monticello Dam to the Yolo Bypass through Solano and Yolo Counties. Over the past 25 years, the Committee has led the restoration of over 20 miles of creek habitat by remeandering channels, removing invasive species such as Arundo and Himalayan Blackberry, replanting native vegetation, and reconnecting the stream to its historical floodplain. Their work has leveraged millions of dollars in funding to enhance ecological function, water quality, flood protection, and climate resilience while maintaining strong partnerships with landowners and agencies. The Committee developed a Watershed Management Action Plan that documents the history and present conditions of the creek and provides comprehensive assessment of biological, physical, and cultural resources.

The Committee has rightfully been recognized for the measurable impact of their restoration efforts. Their work has improved groundwater recharge, reduced erosion, and increased the resilience of the creek corridor

to drought and climate change impacts. They have successfully engaged the community through working groups and annual meetings, with nearly 60 percent of landowners along the creek participating in restoration projects. The Committee owns specialized equipment including earth movers and hydroseeders that allow them to accomplish restoration tasks effectively. Most notably, Chinook salmon have returned to Putah Creek each fall to spawn, a remarkable comeback that has been celebrated by our community members and environmentalists. The Winters Salmon Festival now celebrates the return of these iconic fish each October, honoring both the salmon and the decades of restoration work by countless volunteers.

Mr. Speaker, we thank the Lower Putah Creek Coordinating Committee for their dedicated service to our community and their commitment to protecting our natural resources. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor them here today on the 25th anniversary of the Putah Creek Accord.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Judy Ahmann, who has been named the 2025 Member of the Year by the Napa County Farm Bureau. Judy is being recognized for her decades of advocacy for agriculture and her enduring commitment to the Farm Bureau and our Napa County's agricultural community.

Ms. Ahmann was born in Omaha, Nebraska, and later moved with her family to Long Beach, California. She attended Long Beach State College, graduating in 1966, a year after marrying her husband, John. Judy began her professional career at IBM, but her passion for the land soon led her and John to purchase their first 12 acres in California. After a brief relocation to New Jersey for work, they returned to California in 1970 and settled in our Napa County, where they purchased 300 acres and began raising cattle. In 1986, they acquired more than 3,000 acres along Lake Berryessa, establishing Running Deer Ranch. With no prior ranching experience, the Ahmanns turned to the Napa County Farm Bureau and local Cattlewomen's and Cattlemen's Associations for guidance so they could raise their three daughters, Christina, Anna, and Erica, in the ranching tradition.

Ms. Ahmann's commitment to our agricultural community is clear from her extensive advocacy work. She became a long-standing member and leader in California CattleWomen, serving as president at both the local and state levels, including as state president in 2007 and 2008. She later joined the Executive Board of American National CattleWomen, where her leadership earned her recognition as National CattleWoman of the Year in 2014. In 2010, Judy was selected as a member of Common Threads California, which honors women for their volunteer leadership and contributions to agriculture.

Judy has rightfully been recognized for her advocacy at the national level. In 2013, she testified before the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Public Lands and Environmental Regulation in support of the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Conservation Area Act. Her testimony focused on the need to balance conservation efforts with the preservation of working ranchlands and grazing operations for future generations.

Ms. Ahmann's dedication to agriculture extends to supporting the next generation of farmers and ranchers. She and her family have been generous supporters of youth in agriculture, donating time and raising funds for scholarships benefiting local 4-H and Future Farmers of America students. She has been a steadfast supporter of the Napa County Farm Bureau, actively promoting agricultural policy, education, and community engagement. In 2010, Judy and John placed a conservation easement on 1,275 acres of Running Deer Ranch through the California Rangeland Trust, permanently protecting the ranch as a working landscape while preserving its vital wildlife habitat. They also granted a trail easement to open public access to 9,100 acres of Bureau of Land Management land that had been landlocked for more than 150 years.

Judy remains deeply involved in ranching alongside her daughters and their families, who now operate Running Deer Ranch. Despite the devastation caused by wildfires in 2018 and 2020, the Ahmann family has continued to rebuild, demonstrating resilience and an unwavering commitment to sustainable ranching and responsible land management.

Mr. Speaker, we thank Judy Ahmann for her decades of leadership in the cattle industry, dedication to agricultural education and advocacy, and commitment to supporting the next generation of farmers. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor her here today as the Napa County Farm Bureau's 2025 Member of the Year.

Mr. Speaker, I rise with Congressman John Garamendi to recognize Solano County Sheriff-Coroner Thomas A. Ferrara as he retires from law enforcement after 40 years with the Solano County Sheriff's Office and more than 45 years in law enforcement.

Born and raised in Lodi, Sheriff Ferrara began his law enforcement career in 1978 as a police cadet with the Rio Vista Police Department. He went on to serve as a reserve officer and later as a full-time officer with the Isleton Police Department before joining the Solano County Sheriff's Office in 1984. Over the next four decades, Sheriff Ferrara rose through the department's ranks, serving as Sergeant, Chief Deputy, Captain, and Undersheriff. Sheriff Ferrara was appointed Sheriff-Coroner in 2012 and has been elected to three consecutive terms.

Throughout his tenure, Sheriff Ferrara has provided steady, principled leadership and left a lasting mark on our Solano County. He established the Concealed Carry Weapons program, which became a model for departments across the state, and founded the annual statewide CCW Conference, which brings together hundreds of participants from nearly 100 law enforcement agencies for training and collaboration. Under his leadership, our Solano County Sheriff's Office has completed major public safety improvements at their facilities, including the Stanton Correctional Facility, the Rourk Vocational Training Center, and key upgrades to the Justice Center Detention Facility and Animal Care Shelter.

Sheriff Ferrara has also guided our Solano County through some of its most challenging moments. He oversaw emergency operations during the 2014 Napa earthquake, the 2015 Wragg Fire, the 2017 Atlas Fire, the 2020 LNU Lightning Complex Fire, multiple severe winter storms, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout all these crises, Sheriff Ferrara reacted with calm, decisive leadership, helping ensure the safety of our community members and first responders.

Beyond his service to our Solano County, Sheriff Ferrara has been a respected leader among his peers statewide. He has served on the Board of Directors of the California State Sheriffs' Association and has chaired multiple committees, advancing training, standards, and collaboration across California law enforcement. Sheriff Ferrara is also a graduate of the FBI National Academy's 205th Session and holds numerous professional certifications from the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training.

Sheriff Ferrara's lifelong dedication to public safety and his commitment to integrity, professionalism, and community service have earned him the respect of colleagues and the gratitude of the people he has served. A resident of Vacaville, he and his wife, Judi, look forward to retirement filled with travel, local car shows, and time with family.

Mr. Speaker, Sheriff-Coroner Thomas A. Ferrara has devoted more than four decades to protecting the people of Solano County and strengthening our community. It is fitting and proper that we honor him today for his exemplary leadership and service to our district.

Mr. Speaker, I rise along with my colleague Congressman Jared Huffman, to honor Calpine Corporation (Calpine) as The Geysers, located in our Lake and Sonoma Counties, celebrates 65 years of commercial geothermal operations.

Commercial geothermal power generation at The Geysers began in 1960, marking the fIrst such operation in the United States. Today, The Geysers remains the world's largest geothermal field, and Calpine has served as its primary operator for almost three decades.

In 1997, Calpine acquired 19 geothermal power plants and their associated steam fields, creating a unified approach to managing our critical natural resources. That same year, Calpine partnered with Lake County to construct a 29-mile pipeline delivering treated wastewater to replenish the geothermal steam reservoir. In 2003, the company completed a second 40-mile pipeline in collaboration with the City of Santa Rosa. Together, these systems now supply approximately 20 million gallons of treated wastewater each day, sustaining renewable energy production while providing environmentally sound wastewater solutions for our neighboring communities.

Today, Calpine is the nation's largest producer of geothermal energy, operating 13 plants at The Geysers that generate roughly 725 megawatts of baseload renewable power. These operations employ more than 300 full-time workers and support an additional 150 contractors, contributing significantly to the economies of our Lake and Sonoma Counties.

Beyond its role in energy production, Calpine has demonstrated a long-standing commitment to community partnership and philanthropy. Since 2011, the company has contributed over $3.4 million to youth programs, local nonprofits, and schools throughout our region. These efforts include scholarships for graduating seniors, support for 4-H and Future Farmers of America, sponsorship of youth sports, and donations of meat from the Junior Livestock Auction to the Clearlake

Senior Center's Meals on Wheels program. Calpine also sponsors numerous community events, including Windsor's Concerts in the Park, the Cobb Area Council's Cobbler Festival, and the Rotary Club of Cloverdale's Asti Tour de Vine.

The company has shown equal commitment to public safety and environmental stewardship. Calpine has partnered with the Northern Sonoma County Fire Foundation to install helicopter dip tanks that enhance wildfire response in The Geysers region. Calpine also supports the Lake County Sheriff's Foundation, the South Lake Fire Protection District Volunteer Firefighters Association, and the Lake County Silver Foundation. Calpine employees have collectively contributed over 23,000 hours of volunteer service, assisting with local trail restoration, food distribution, and community clean-up projects. The company also hosts annual educational tours for approximately 400 visitors, helping to inspire the next generation of clean energy leaders.

Mr. Speaker, for 65 years, The Geysers has produced clean, reliable power for our region, and Calpine Corporation has been a steadfast partner to our local communities. Their leadership in renewable energy and dedication to community service have strengthened both our regional economy and our shared environmental future. It is fitting and proper that we recognize them here today on this milestone anniversary.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Phil Coturri as he celebrates his 60th harvest in Sonoma Valley. Over six decades, Mr. Coturri has become a pioneer in organic viticulture and a leading voice in sustainable winegrowing, leaving a lasting impact on California's agricultural and environmental landscape.

Born on October 3, 1952, in San Francisco, Mr. Coturri grew up in the Italian neighborhood of Visitation Valley and spent weekends and summers at his family's home in Glen Ellen. When Mr. Coturri was eight, his parents purchased a small property on Sonoma Mountain, where they planted two acres of Zinfandel. By age eleven, he was making wine alongside his father and brother, sparking a lifelong passion for viticulture. Mr. Coturri later earned a Bachelor of Arts in American Literature from Sonoma State University and married his wife, Arden Kremer, with whom he shares two

sons, Sam and Max, and four grandchildren: Althea, Sabine, Hudson, and Wilder.

Mr. Coturri's professional journey began with his first harvest in 1965 at Laurel Glen Vineyard, where he gained firsthand experience in vineyard management. In 1979, he founded Enterprise Vineyards, setting out to prove that organic practices could thrive in commercial winegrowing. At a time when chemical use was the industry norm, Mr. Coturri pioneered a holistic, year-round approach focused on soil health and biodiversity. Under his leadership, Enterprise Vineyards has grown to employ more than 160 full-time workers and manage over 700 acres of certified organic and biodynamic vineyards across our Sonoma, Napa, and Solano Counties. His work has helped establish organic viticulture as a cornerstone of modern sustainable agriculture.

Throughout his career, Mr. Coturri has earned widespread recognition for his leadership and innovation. Often referred to as the ``Master of Mountain Viticulture'' and the ``Godfather of Sonoma Wine Country,'' he has shaped both the cultural and physical landscape of our Sonoma Valley. Mr. Coturri's grapes have supplied many of California's most celebrated wines, with the North Bay Bohemian naming him Winemaker of the Year in 2020 and Winegrower of the Year in 2023. He also played a key role in the 2013 designation of the Moon Mountain District AVA, reflecting his decades of expertise farming the volcanic terrain.

In 2005, the Coturri family founded Winery Sixteen 600, dedicated to Rhone and heritage varietals sourced from notable sites across our Sonoma Valley, including Moon Mountain. In 2015, the family opened the Winery Sixteen 600 Tasting House in downtown Sonoma, which has since become a local hub for music and art. The tasting room features a vast vinyl record collection and artwork celebrating Bay Area creativity. His sons, Sam and Max, now carry on the family legacy through their leadership in the winery and vineyard operations.

Beyond his professional achievements, Mr. Coturri has been an active supporter of the local community. He has contributed to organizations such as the Sonoma Valley Vintners and Growers Alliance, Swim America Sonoma, the Seva Foundation, the Rex Foundation, and La Luz Center, reflecting his enduring commitment to the place and people that shaped his life's work.

Mr. Speaker, we thank Phil Coturri for his six decades of leadership, innovation, and service to our Sonoma Valley. It is fitting and proper that we honor him here today for his lifelong dedication to sustainable agriculture and his lasting contributions to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor E Center, an esteemed organization in our community. Their more than 50 years of dedicated service to our Northern California region and unwavering commitment to fighting poverty and building healthy communities demonstrate why they deserve recognition today.

Founded in 1973 and headquartered in Yuba City, E Center is a nonprofit agency serving eight Northern California counties: Butte, Colusa, Glenn, Lake, Sutter, Tehama, Yolo, and Yuba. For over five decades, the organization has strengthened the well-being and resilience of our communities' families, agricultural workers, seniors, and justice-involved individuals by providing essential services in education, nutrition, healthcare, housing, and environmental awareness.

E Center has rightfully earned recognition for its leadership in early childhood education and family support. Through partnerships with federal and state agencies, the organization administers a range of programs that serve as lifelines for families across our region, including Head Start, Early Head Start, Migrant and

Seasonal Head Start, Migrant Early Head Start, CalAIM Enhanced Care Management, CalAIM Community Support and Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). E Center's Head Start programs provide early childhood education, health, nutrition, and parental involvement services at no cost to participating families. Each year, E Center serves more than 1,100 families, with over 1,300 children enrolled across 83 local classrooms. In 2024, its WIC program celebrated its 50th anniversary, serving an average of 2,200 participants per month in Lake County with nutrition education and breastfeeding support. The organization also offers state-funded general childcare programs for working families, helping parents balance work and family responsibilities while ensuring their children thrive.

E Center's impact extends beyond education through its collaborative and community-centered approach. The organization fosters partnerships with local governments, schools, community organizations, and employers to expand access to health, education, and employment opportunities. In 2024, E Center expanded its Bird Center in Oroville and opened a new facility on Queens Avenue in Yuba City to better serve families across our region. Its CalAIM program, launched the same year, connects individuals and families experiencing homelessness to safe and stable housing resources, reflecting the organization's dedication to advancing equity, stability, and opportunity.

Mr. Speaker, E Center has honorably served our Northern California communities for more than five decades. The grand opening of E Center's new corporate office marks a milestone in the organization's growth and continued commitment to service, innovation, and partnership. It is fitting and proper to honor E Center here today for its enduring work to strengthen families and build healthier, more resilient communities.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today, along with my colleague, Mr. Garamendi, to honor Lisette Estrella-Henderson as she retires after 40 years of dedicated service to public education in our district. Her leadership as Solano County Superintendent of Schools and her lifelong commitment to educational equity have made a lasting impact on thousands of students, families, and educators throughout our region.

Ms. Estrella-Henderson grew up in a military family in Solano County after her father was stationed at Travis Air Force Base. She is a 1980 graduate of Armijo High School and continued her education at Solano Community College. She later earned her bachelor of arts in history from the University of California, Davis in 1984, followed by her teaching credential a year later. Ms. Estrella-Henderson later completed her master's degree in curriculum and instruction at California State University, Sacramento, along with her bilingual teaching and administrative credentials.

Ms. Estrella-Henderson's commitment to education began in the classroom and grew throughout her career. She spent more than 20 years with the Dixon School District, serving as a teacher, program specialist, and principal before moving into district administration. In January 2017, she was appointed as Solano County Superintendent of Schools, becoming the first Latina to hold this position. She was subsequently elected to the role in 2018 and re-elected in 2022.

As Superintendent, Ms. Estrella-Henderson has overseen an $88 million budget while providing leadership and support to six unified school districts serving approximately 60,000 students. Her tenure has been marked by achievements in expanding educational opportunities and student support services. Ms. Estrella-Henderson was able to procure $15.6 million in additional resources for programs focused on job readiness, school safety, student wellness and educational equity in Solano County. Ms. Estrella-Henderson innovative approach to career readiness included launching the Innovation Lab at Golden Hills Education Center and establishing the Education to Employment program for at-risk youth. Under her leadership, the Solano County Office of Education was able to earn WASC accreditation for its Juvenile Court and Community Schools, enabling students to earn high school diplomas from fully accredited programs.

Ms. Estrella-Henderson has been a champion for student wellness and safety. As Superintendent, she partnered with Solano County Behavioral Health to establish more than 50 school-based mental health wellness centers throughout our county. Ms. Estrella-Henderson has also worked with county health officials to launch fentanyl education and awareness campaigns and brought emergency response training to our local educators.

Ms. Estrella-Henderson's service extends far beyond her official duties. She is an active participant in numerous organizations, including the California Association of Latino Superintendents and Administrators, the Association of California School Administrators, and the First 5 Solano Children and Families Commission. Ms. Estrella- Henderson has also received widespread recognition for her leadership including the C-STEM Superintendent of the Year Award, the Beloved Community Award, and being named Woman of the Year for California's Third Congressional District in 2018.

Mr. Speaker, Lisette Estrella-Henderson has spent four decades building bridges, breaking barriers and creating opportunities for students throughout our Solano County. Her legacy of innovation, equity and excellence will continue to benefit our community for years to come. It is fitting and proper that we honor her today for her service to public education and her dedication to our students and families.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor La Luz Center, which is celebrating 40 years of supporting the Latino community of Sonoma Valley. This non-profit organization has provided a variety of essential services from community engagement, family support, youth education, professional development and more to our Sonoma Valley's most vulnerable families.

La Luz was founded by activist Ligia Booker in 1985, during a time when most of our Sonoma Latino population was composed of seasonal workers who would return to their native countries once the harvest concluded. Originally offering seasonal housing for harvest workers, La Luz has expanded into a beacon of cultural resilience in our Sonoma Valley. The organization now works year-round, serving over 2,000 individuals and families accounting for over 80 percent of the Latino population of Sonoma. La Luz has undoubtedly become a significant resource for families seeking assistance with immigration, small business support and learning development.

While the organization has expanded, La Luz's mission to advance immigrant safety and wellbeing has remained the same. La Luz aids those who are in dire need of human services with immediate support including legal assistance and access to food and health care. In addition to providing emergency services to our vulnerable communities, La Luz also offers resources to our community to increase school readiness of local Latino children. The group supports professional development, offering several trainings and workshops in finance and computer literacy to help our Latino community members thrive.

In 2016, the La Luz Center was rebuilt in the heart of Boyes Hot Springs to be able to provide in-person assistance and host community events. Following its humble beginnings in a shared office space, the new La Luz Center proudly hosts annual events such as Cinco de Mayo, Dia de los Muertos, Noche de Luna and many others for our community to come together and celebrate Latino culture through traditional music, dance and food.

Mr Speaker, La Luz is greatly appreciated for their 40 years of service to our Sonoma Valley community. Their noble dream of establishing a safe place for new immigrants to receive support remains alive and well in our region to this day. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor La Luz Center here today.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Enchanted Hills Camp for the Blind as it celebrates 75 years of service to our community. For generations, this organization has provided blind, low vision, and deafblind individuals with opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive in a supportive environment designed specifically for their needs.

Founded in 1950 by Rose Resnick, who was blind herself, and Nina Brandt, Enchanted Hills Camp was established to fill a critical gap. At that time, no recreational facility on the West Coast offered blind children a place to explore, build confidence, and experience the joys of summer camp. Located on 311 acres of Mt. Veeder, the camp became the first of its kind in our region, with a central focus on celebrating individuals' abilities rather than their limitations.

For 75 years, Enchanted Hills has welcomed children, teens, adults, seniors, and families from across California and beyond. It operates year-round, hosting its flagship Changing Vision, Changing Life blindness skills immersion training alongside traditional summer programs. Additional offerings include music academies, woodworking and chemistry camps, horse camps, and family sessions, all designed for blind and visually impaired individuals. The camp also serves deafblind individuals and those with multiple disabilities, ensuring inclusive programming for all.

What makes Enchanted Hills remarkable is its emphasis on fostering confidence and independence. Campers participate in activities such as swimming, archery, drama, horseback riding, and adaptive sports, guided by staff and counselors who are blind or have low vision themselves. These role models provide mentorship and encouragement, helping campers develop self-advocacy and independence.

Enchanted Hills Camp's impact extends beyond its campers. The facility regularly hosts corporate retreats, nonprofit gatherings, and community organizations. It also serves as a fire-resilience hub supporting Napa Valley businesses and residents. The camp maintains active partnerships with the Napa Chamber of Commerce, Napa Rotary Club, and American Camp Association.

Mr. Speaker, Enchanted Hills Camp for the Blind has spent 75 years opening doors, building confidence, and changing lives. Its continued service to the blind and visually impaired community, as well as its support for our broader Napa region, makes it a cherished institution. It is fitting and proper that we honor them today for their extraordinary contributions to our district.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Rowland Freedom Center as it opens its new exhibit commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States Marine Corps. This exhibit honors generations of marines who have served our Nation with distinction and upholds the Center's mission to preserve military history and inspire civic understanding.

Founded in 2017, the Rowland Freedom Center is a nonprofit museum dedicated to honoring those who have defended our Nation and to educating future generations about the value of freedom and patriotism. Originally known as the Center for Freedom and Flight, the museum was renamed in 2020 to recognize co-chair Herman G. Rowland, Chairman of the Jelly Belly Candy Company, whose leadership helped shape the institution's mission. Through its rotating exhibits and aviation- focused displays, the Center serves as an important community resource for veterans, families, and students alike.

The United States Marine Corps' 250th Anniversary Exhibit is the Center's most recent

effort to connect the public with our Nation's military legacy. Curated in partnership with the Solano County Marine Corps League Detachment 1486, the exhibit features artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia that span the history of the Marine Corps from its founding in 1775 to its modern-day role in defending American values. Among the highlights are original marine uniforms, a nine-foot 48-star American flag, and artifacts from World Wars I and II, including sand collected from the beaches of Normandy and Iwo Jima.

As a Vietnam veteran and proud supporter of our armed forces, I am especially moved by this tribute. This exhibit honors not only the institution of the Marine Corps, but also the countless men and women, past and present, who have worn the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor with distinction and proudly served their country on air, land, and sea. I commend the staff and volunteers at the Rowland Freedom Center for their dedication in making this exhibit possible. Their work ensures that our citizens understand and appreciate the sacrifices made by our brave marines to defend our freedoms and way of life.

Mr. Speaker, the Rowland Freedom Center's United States Marine Corps 250th Anniversary Exhibit preserves the stories and honors the sacrifices of our servicemen and women in defending the freedoms we, as Americans, have enjoyed for over two centuries. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor this important exhibit today.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor California Waterfowl as it celebrates 80 years of dedicated conservation service. This organization's decades long work protecting California's waterfowl and wetland resources has made it the largest state-based waterfowl group in the United States and a vital force for environmental stewardship in our state and district.

California Waterfowl was founded in 1945 as the Duck Hunters Association of California by hunters concerned about the rapid loss of wetlands. At the time, California had already lost 90 percent of its original wetlands, and few resources were dedicated to reversing this trend. In 1985, the organization partnered with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to conduct studies that revealed most mallards harvested by hunters in the state were hatched locally, a finding that underscored the importance of in-State habitat to the health of the entire Pacific Flyway.

Today, California Waterfowl includes more than 20,000 members united by a shared vision of a California abundant in waterfowl, vibrant wetlands, and thriving hunting communities. Over the past four decades, the organization has invested $280 million in conservation efforts and completed more than 1,500 projects to protect, restore, and enhance nearly 730,000 acres of waterfowl habitat statewide. More than half of these projects occurred on public lands, including significant work in the Suisun Marsh and California Delta. Recognizing the importance of agriculture to conservation, California Waterfowl has also partnered with landowners through programs such as the Delayed Wheat Harvest Incentive, Rice Levee and Agricultural Corridors Program, and Fallow Agriculture Program to support nesting waterfowl and pollinators while maintaining productive farmland.

The organization's research and education efforts have contributed significantly to wildlife science and public awareness. Its Wood Duck Program has successfully hatched more than one million ducklings and distributed over 165,000 wood duck boxes. More than 180,000 students have participated in their conservation education programs. In 2009, the Hunt Program was launched to improve land access for hunters, now serving nearly 2,000 participants annually. The Veteran Hunt Program has supported over 5,000 service members, while broader outreach efforts have introduced more than 28,000 Californians to hunting and outdoor stewardship.

Mr. Speaker, California Waterfowl's 80 years of conservation leadership have helped restore and protect hundreds of thousands of acres of critical habitat while educating generations of Californians about the importance of wetland conservation. Their work continues to benefit our state and district's wildlife, agriculture, and outdoor recreation opportunities. It is fitting and proper that we honor them today for their outstanding service to our region's natural resources and conservation heritage.

Mr. Speaker I rise today, along with my colleague, Mr. Huffman, to honor Dr. Lynn Cominsky, an esteemed member of the Sonoma County educational community. After 39 years of service to Sonoma State University, Dr. Cominsky will assume the title of Emerita EdEon Director, marking a major milestone in her remarkable career championing public science education and outreach.

Dr. Cominsky earned her bachelor of arts in physics from Brandeis University in 1975, graduating magna cum laude with honors in chemistry. She went on to earn her Ph.D. in physics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1981. In 1986, she joined the faculty of Sonoma State University as an associate professor of physics and astronomy, becoming a full professor at the university in 1991. She served as Chair of the Department of Physics and Astronomy from 2004 to 2019, and twice as Chair of the Chemistry Department from 2005 to 2007 and again from 2018 to 2019. Through her cross-disciplinary leadership, Dr. Cominsky helped shape the academic direction of Sonoma State for nearly four decades.

Throughout her tenure, Dr. Cominsky worked to expand equity in STEM education, especially for underserved and underrepresented students. She was instrumental in supporting Sonoma State's designation as a Hispanic-Serving Institution and helped develop national resources for autistic learners. She secured tens of millions of dollars in grant funding to support inclusive science programming and reduce bias and harassment in academia.

Dr. Cominsky also founded and led EdEon STEM Learning, Sonoma State's education and outreach center focused on space and Earth science. Under her direction, EdEon developed K-14 curriculum and classroom tools that engaged students and educators in cutting-edge research and inquiry- based learning. In partnership with NASA, the National Science Foundation and the Department of Education, EdEon created innovative ways to

engage students with astrophysics, Earth science, and engineering concepts, and built professional learning communities for educators across the country. The center collaborated with NASA on missions such as Swift, NuSTAR, and Fermi, producing educator guides, simulations, and videos used nationwide. EdEon also created programming for the NSF's LIGO project and led teacher training workshops that strengthened STEM education in underserved communities.

Among her many honors, Dr. Cominsky is the recipient of the Frank J. Malina Astronautics Medal, the American Astronomical Society Education Prize, the Sally Ride Excellence in Education Award, and was elected a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. Her work has been recognized nationally for advancing science education and outreach.

Dr. Cominsky currently resides in Sonoma County. She was married to the late Garret Jernigan, with whom she shared 42 years of partnership until his passing in 2022. In addition to her professional work, she is a dedicated mentor, public speaker, and advocate for expanding access to STEM fields across communities.

Mr. Speaker, it is fitting and proper that we recognize Dr. Lynn Cominsky for her extraordinary career and decades of service to education, Sonoma County, and the broader scientific community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dario Sattui and his V. Sattui Winery as they celebrate 50 years of winemaking excellence in our Napa Valley. Mr Sattui's vision, dedication to our community,

and commitment to environmental stewardship have made V. Sattui one of our most treasured wineries and a cornerstone of Napa Valley's agricultural heritage.

Born in San Francisco in 1941 to George and Lucille Sattui, Mr. Sattui grew up understanding the importance of family legacy and hard work. He earned his bachelor of science in accounting and finance from San Jose State University in 1965, followed by his master of business administration with an emphasis in Marketing from the University of California, Berkeley in 1969.

The story of V. Sattui Winery began in 1885 when Mr. Sattui's great- grandfather, Vittorio Sattui, immigrated from Genoa, Italy, and established a thriving San Francisco winery that operated for 35 years before Prohibition forced its closure. In 1975, nearly four decades later, Mr. Sattui revived the family dream by re-establishing V. Sattui Winery in our Napa Valley. When the winery opened its doors on March 4, 1976, it became the 46th winery to operate in Napa Valley since Prohibition, with Mr. Sattui's vision of creating a Napa d'Italia where guests could experience the good life through exceptional wine and warm hospitality.

V. Sattui's commitment to excellence has been widely recognized. The winery has been named ``Winery of the Year'' at the California State Fair four times, earned the title ``Best Winery in the Western U.S.'' at the Critics Challenge Wine Competition, and received ``Domestic Winery of the Year'' from the San Diego International Wine & Spirits Challenge. In 2023, V. Sattui converted to 100 percent organic farming across 200 acres spanning four counties, demonstrating Mr. Sattui's dedication to sustainable agriculture and environmental protection.

Mr. Sattui's commitment to our community extends far beyond winemaking. He has donated $1.6 million to support the Calistoga Boys & Girls Club and contributed $1 million to the Calistoga School District to expand its preschool program. His generosity has also benefited St. Helena Public Schools Foundation, Napa Valley education programs, and disaster relief efforts, including a $100,000 contribution to support victims of the 2017 fires. Through conservation easements with the Land Trust of Napa Valley, Mr Sattui has also protected more than 600 acres from future development, ensuring these lands remain available for agriculture and open space in perpetuity.

Mr. Sattui's dedication to health and medical research is reflected in his $4.5 million donation to the Gladstone Institute for heart health research. He has also supported innovative environmental initiatives, including his investment in Resynergi of Santa Rosa to convert plastic waste into energy, and his support for Meals on Wheels of Napa Valley through the purchase of a new food delivery truck.

Mr. Sattui is married to Irina Sattui. Mr. Sattui has a son, Mario, who is named after his great-grandfather. The Sattui family continues to operate V. Sattui as a direct-to-consumer winery, and is one of the few wineries in our Napa Valley established prior to 1980 that are still operating today with the original founding families. The Sattui family remains committed to maintaining the personal touch and authentic experience that has made it a destination where generations of families return time and again.

Mr. Speaker, Dario Sattui and V. Sattui Winery's 50 years of winemaking excellence, environmental stewardship, and community service have profoundly shaped Napa Valley's cultural and agricultural landscape. It is fitting and proper that we honor them today for their remarkable contributions to our community and their unwavering commitment to preserving our valley's heritage while inspiring future generations.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 35th anniversary of Women For WineSense's Napa-Sonoma Chapter and to commend the organization's longstanding contributions to our wine community and to our district. Since its founding in 1990, the Napa- Sonoma Chapter has served as a hub for education, mentorship, and professional growth in the wine realm.

Women For WineSense began in Napa-Sonoma, founded by Julie Johnson, Michaela Rodeno, and a group of women wine community leaders who came together to counter the growing anti-alcohol sentiment of the time. Through education, outreach, and engagement, they advocated for responsible wine enjoyment and helped shift public perception. Their early efforts contributed to a growing appreciation of wine culture nationwide, reflected in rising wine sales and broader recognition of American winemaking.

As its founding goals were achieved, the organization evolved into a national entity that advances and connects wine professionals and enthusiasts. It has created a lasting platform and expanding community for professional growth, while fostering knowledge and appreciation of wine and its cultural and historical significance. What began as a local initiative has since grown into a national nonprofIt with twelve chapters and over 700 members, including 150 in the founding Napa- Sonoma Chapter.

Central to that success are the four generations of volunteer leaders and members who have continuously sustained and expanded the chapter over the past 35 years. Women For WineSense's Napa-Sonoma Chapter remains an inclusive network, welcoming both wine professionals and enthusiasts into its membership and supporting a wide range of roles within the wine community. Its membership includes winery owners, winemakers, viticulture professionals, marketers, sommeliers, distributors, importers, educators, enthusiasts and others committed to strengthening our wine community. The organization then and now, reflects a shared belief in thoughtful wine enjoyment and the power of education, collaboration, and community.

One of the Napa-Sonoma Chapter's hallmark programs is a collection of Professional Roundtables, which were introduced in 2004. These roundtables bring together groups of professionals from specific roles across the wine community to exchange ideas, share expertise, and foster collaboration. Alongside regular chapter events, these gatherings have created enduring opportunities for learning, mentorship and forging strong community bonds within our region.

In addition to Napa-Sonoma programming, Women For WineSense has hosted national conferences and coordinated educational trips to wine regions around the world. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the organization quickly adapted by expanding virtual programming and virtual Professional Roundtables and launching a national membership model to keep members engaged and connected. The Napa-Sonoma Chapter has additionally stepped up service during multiple declared disasters in our region to connect community members to experts, information and vital resources in times of need.

Mr. Speaker, it is fitting and proper that we recognize the Napa- Sonoma Chapter of Women For WineSense for 35 years of vision, leadership, and service to the wine community. I congratulate the organization on this milestone and thank its members for their continued commitment to excellence and growth in our wine community.