Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Barbara Nemko, Ph.D., on the occasion of her retirement after 28 years as Napa County Superintendent of Schools and a lifetime of service to education.

Dr. Nemko was born in the Bronx, New York, where her journey in education began. She earned her Bachelor of Arts and Master's degrees from Queens College, and started her career as a second-grade teacher in New York City. Her academic work continued at the University of California, Berkeley, where she earned her Ph.D. in Reading and Evaluation of School Programs in 1981, a milestone that also began her love affair with California.

After joining the Napa County Office of Education in 1991, Dr. Nemko was appointed as the Napa County Superintendent of Schools in 1997, and later elected to the position in 1998. Dr. Nemko held this role for an unprecedented 28 years. At the time of her retirement, Dr. Nemko was the longest-serving county superintendent in office in our state. Her tenure transformed Napa County's education system, establishing the Office of Education as a regional leader in early learning, special education, career technical education, mental health services, and professional development for educators.

Dr. Nemko was known for her forward-thinking leadership, particularly in advancing educational technology. She was an early advocate for closing the digital divide, securing technology and internet access for thousands of students in Napa County. She pioneered programs like the Superintendent's Fund to provide children with eyeglasses, orthotics, and other critical needs not covered by existing budgets.

Her leadership has extended beyond the classroom. Dr. Nemko served on the Community Corrections Board and Juvenile Justice Committee for her entire tenure as Superintendent, completed Leadership Napa Valley in 1999, and later joined its Board of Directors. She also served as President of the Rotary Club of Napa from 2013 to 2014. In recognition of her advocacy, she was named Woman of the Year for the 7th Assembly District by the California Legislature in 2009, received the Public Policy Advocate Award from the International Society for Technology in Education in 2014, and earned the Platinum Disk Award from Computer Using Educators in 2019.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dr. Nemko is deeply committed to her family

and the arts. She has performed in numerous community theater productions with Dreamweavers, Lucky Penny, and Valley Players. She is married to Dr. Marty Nemko, an accomplished career coach, author, and writer. Together they raised their daughter, Amy Zubrensky, who served as a researcher in the Clinton White House, earned her law degree from Yale, and now serves as an Assistant U.S. Attorney at the U.S. Department of Justice. Dr. Nemko and her husband are the proud grandparents of Lea and Sara Zubrensky.

Mr. Speaker, for nearly three decades, Dr. Barbara Nemko has dedicated herself to strengthening Napa County's education system and enriching her community. It is fitting and proper that we recognize her extraordinary career, leadership, and service here today.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Phil and Toni Scully, leaders and public servants who have been named the 2025 Lake County Farm Bureau Lifetime Achievement Award Winners.

Phil was born and grew up in San Francisco, California while Toni grew up in Galt, California. Phil earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Economics from UC Davis. Toni also attended UC Davis, where the two met and later married while still students. Toni earned a Bachelor of Arts in English and Spanish, followed by a teaching credential. Their diverse academic backgrounds--Phil's in agriculture and economics, Toni's in language and education--proved to be a powerful combination, laying a strong foundation for the success of their family business: Scully Packing Company.

Phil and Toni's commitment to our community is evident from their long history of advocating for agricultural policy. Toni has served as a powerful voice and bridge between Lake County agriculture and policymakers at every level. In 1996, while I was in the California State Senate, I had the honor to work with Toni to pass SB 1988, a bill that safeguarded the ability of Lake County teens to work during the pear harvest. In 2006, Toni partnered with U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein to support and promote the Agricultural Jobs Bill, aimed at providing a more stable, legal workforce for American agriculture while safeguarding the rights and livelihoods of farmworkers. Meanwhile, Phil has been a true innovator in the pear industry. He has introduced River Pears to Lake County, extending the marketing season. Additionally, he pioneered the use of electronic sizers, plastic bins, and PLU stickers in California's pear industry.

Toni and Phil stay busy around the district. Toni is a current member of the AgVenture Steering Committee, past President of California Women for Agriculture, a former member of the Executive Committee for the California Grape and Tree Fruit League and has been a member of the Lake County Farm Bureau Presidents' Club for over 30 years. Toni was also the recipient of the 2014 Common Threads North Award. Phil is a former member of the California Tree Fruit Agreement, a former board member of the California Pear Advisory Board, and a former board member of the California Grape and Tree Fruit League.

Together, Phil and Toni have four children: Tom, Pat, Katie, and Andy. Today, Pat and Andy serve as co-owners of Scully Packing Company, continuing the family legacy. Katie is a food scientist and a floral farmer, and Tom is a flight instructor and pilot for United Airlines. Toni and Phil are proud grandparents to nine grandchildren and great- grandparents to two. This year, they celebrate 61 wonderful years of marriage--a testament to their enduring partnership in both life and business.

Mr. Speaker, we thank Phil and Toni Scully for their dedicated service to California's 4th District. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor them here today.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Pemba Sherpa, a leader and community-rooted entrepreneur who has been named California's 4th Congressional District 2025 American Dream Award Recipient for Sonoma County. This award recognizes the achievements of immigrants in our district who have made remarkable contributions to our communities in the areas of Arts and Culture, Professional Achievement, Entrepreneurship and Innovation or Community Service.

Mr. Sherpa was born and raised in Namche, Nepal, a small village in the Himalayas. Mr. Sherpa came to the United States in 1997 with a dream of pursuing a college education. In 2002, he received his bachelor's degree in business administration from Manchester College in Indiana. Mr. Sherpa then moved to the town of Sonoma where he and his business partner opened the first location of the Taste of the Himalayas in 2003. In 2009, while pursuing his master's degree, Mr. Sherpa enrolled in the International Culinary Center in Campell. Today, Sonoma County knows Pemba for his tireless work ethic, entrepreneurship and leadership. He is the owner of Farmhouse Sonoma and multiple locations of Taste of the Himalayas. Mr. Sherpa is also president of the Himalayan Sherpa Club and a member of the Sonoma Valley Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Sherpa's most important role is that of a proud husband to his wife, Tenzin, and father to their children, Osel and Rigsel.

Mr. Sherpa has created more than jobs, cultivating a welcoming space for different cultures to blend. Mr. Sherpa prioritizes local sourcing, sustainable practices and uses his businesses to support community events. Mr. Sherpa has organized and contributed to numerous fundraisers benefiting wildfire relief, local families in crisis and public-school initiatives. Whether feeding first responders or helping a neighbor in need, he consistently shows up to provide generosity and care for our community.

As president of the Himalayan Sherpa Club, Mr. Sherpa leads efforts to preserve Himalayan heritage. He has played a key role in organizing cultural festivals, fundraising dinners and community aid drives, particularly during natural disasters and local emergencies. His involvement spans civic, cultural and philanthropic engagement always with a commitment to support others in Sonoma County, the place he now calls home.

His journey is a testament to the American promise of opportunity and his strength of character. Admired for his generosity, resilience and innovation, Mr. Sherpa embodies all pillars of what it means to not only achieve the American Dream, but also share it with others.

Mr. Speaker, it is fitting and proper that we honor Pemba Sherpa for his innovation, leadership and dedication to California's 4th Congressional District.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Robert Gayaldo, an esteemed member of our Lake County community. Robert's dedicated membership to the Lake County Farm Bureau Board and vocal support for agriculture exemplify why he has been named as the 2025 Lake County Farm Bureau Member of the Year.

Born in Lakeport, Robert currently lives in Kelseyville, California and has two children, Charlene and Niki.

Robert has been an instrumental member of the Lake County Farm Bureau Board for over 40 years. He has previously served as President of the Bureau's board of directors, where he played a vital role in addressing the challenges of farmers, ranchers, and rural landowners in Lake County. He has also represented the Lake County Farm Bureau on the California Farm Bureau state board.

Robert's commitment to the Lake County Farm Bureau and our community is evident. As member of the Lake County Farm Bureau, he has been a visionary leader for the organization, inspiring membership growth that led to the Bureau being selected as a County of the Year Award recipient by the California Farm Bureau.

He also continues to support many agriculture-based companies in the community as well as support community youth programs such as 4-H, FFA and youth sports programs.

Mr. Speaker, it is fitting and proper that we honor Robert Gayaldo for his service and dedication to California's 4th District.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Bonnie Sears, an esteemed member of the Lake County agricultural community. Mrs. Sears' leadership and dedication to Lake County's wine grape industry exemplify why she has been named as a Friend of the Farm Bureau.

Mrs. Sears, office manager for Beckstoffer Vineyards, Red Hills, has worked for various agriculture-related businesses, including Snows Lake Vineyard, where she was involved in multiple aspects of the winegrowing business. Previously she was employed by a fruit importer in Kelseyville.

Mrs. Sears and her family moved to Lake County in 1987. She served two years on the board of the Lake County Winery Association and was on the Wine Adventure committee for several years. She has also been involved with the Lake County Chapter of California Women for Agriculture. In 2010, she decided she wanted to know more about the business of growing grapes and began her pursuit of a certificate in viticulture with Vesta, an online viticulture program.

As a longtime member of the Lake County Winegrape Commission board, Mrs. Sears has been instrumental in advocating for growers, advancing sustainable practices, and fostering collaboration across the region's vineyards. Her professional expertise and passion for viticulture have helped elevate Lake County's reputation as a premier wine grape growing region, benefiting farmers and businesses alike. Beyond her industry contributions, Mrs. Sears' commitment to community service and partnership with the Farm Bureau exemplify the spirit of cooperation that drives Lake County agriculture forward.

Mr. Speaker, it is fitting and proper that we honor Bonnie Sears for her service, leadership, and dedication to California's 4th District.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Helene R. Dillard, an academic leader and member of our Davis community, on the occasion of her retirement as Dean of the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences at UC Davis. After more than 11 years of service in this role, and a career spanning four decades, Dean Dillard leaves behind a legacy of excellence in education, research, and public service.

A native of San Francisco, Dean Dillard earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology of Natural Resources from UC Berkeley in 1977, followed by a Master's in Soil Science in 1979 and a Ph.D. in Plant Pathology from UC Davis in 1984. She went on to spend three decades at Cornell University, where she served in several leadership roles, including Chair of the Department of Plant Pathology, Director of Cornell Cooperative Extension, and Associate Dean in both the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and the College of Human Ecology.

Dean Dillard returned to UC Davis in 2014 to lead the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, widely recognized as the top- ranked agricultural school in the Nation and second in the world. As dean, she served as the college's chief academic and administrative officer, overseeing 14 departments, 29 centers and institutes, and a community of more than 7,600 students, 320 faculty, and 585 staff.

Under her leadership, the college advanced major research and infrastructure initiatives. These included six new greenhouses, among them a 14,400-square-foot facility designed to protect critical grapevine collections, upgrades to the Center for Aquatic Biology and Aquaculture, improvements in water and irrigation systems, and the development of a new indoor vertical farm and goat dairy. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dean Dillard guided the college through budget reductions and campus closures, overseeing the transition to online learning and the implementation of safety measures across research and teaching spaces.

Beyond her administrative leadership, Dean Dillard has also led efforts to make education more inclusive and accessible. She has been a strong advocate for experiential learning, supporting opportunities that take students beyond the classroom and into the field. Her commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion has included co-leading the college DEI committee, piloting faculty diversity statement requirements, and supporting the launch of Aggie Jumpstart, a program serving first-generation and underserved students.

Dean Dillard's contributions have been widely recognized by her peers and beyond. She is a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, a Fellow of the American Phytopathological Society, and recipient of the Excellence in Extension Award, the New York Farmers Medal, and the Walter A. Robinson Community Champion Award, among others. Over the past decade, she has helped secure more than $442 million in philanthropic support for the college, including 50 million for the Lynda and Stewart Resnick Center for Agricultural Innovation, the largest individual gift in UC Davis history.

Dean Dillard is known throughout the campus community not only for her leadership but also for her open-door approach, mentorship, and deep commitment to students, faculty, and staff. Dean Dillard is a proud Aggie, a supporter of women's basketball, and enjoys pickleball, fishing, and world travel. She and her husband, Victor, have been married for 44 years and are the proud parents of Jamar Dillard.

Mr. Speaker, Dean Helene Dillard has had a distinguished career in education, research, and public service. Her leadership at UC Davis has made a lasting impact on the university and on the lives of students and colleagues across our region. It is fitting and proper that we recognize her here today and thank her for her many contributions to our Davis community and beyond.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Edgar Ontiveros, a leader and public servant who has been named California's 4th Congressional District 2025 American Dream Award Recipient for Lake County. This award recognizes the achievements of immigrants in our district who have made remarkable contributions to our communities in the areas of Arts and Culture, Professional Achievement, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, or Community Service.

For many years, Mr. Ontiveros came to Hidden Valley to visit his uncle during the weekends. In 2003, he had the chance to visit Clearlake for the first time, sparking his love for the Lake County community. By 2004, he had the opportunity to purchase a house in Clearlake and has lived in the area ever since.

In 2009, Mr. Ontiveros joined the staff of Lake County Behavioral Health Services (LCBHS) as a Cultural Specialist and Ethnic Services Peer Support Specialist. In 2014, LCBHS created the La Voz De la Esperanza community center, appointing Mr. Ontiveros as the center's supervisor. The La Voz, or the Latino Wellness Center, located in Clearlake, works to connect the Latino Community to culturally relevant service and ensure that Spanish speakers are equipped with tools to navigate health and wellness services. With volunteer translators and various educational opportunities, they help to break the language barrier that often prevents people from seeking help and offer referrals for mental health services when requested.

Mr. Ontiveros' leadership and work as the supervisor of La Voz integral in ensuring countless community members have access to mental health support, help to navigate the health care system, and a sense of community and support. As a Certified Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist, he works to assess critical needs of Latino community members regarding mental health services and support clients, both individual and family.

Mr. Ontiveros also works tirelessly to develop, implement, and maintain activities and programs related to the Latino Wellness Center. He recruits and trains volunteers and develops relationships with partner agencies and community entities. Additionally, Mr. Ontiveros connects Latino community members to services through the Behavioral Health Department, providing key mental health services for those who may not otherwise have access.

Mr. Ontiveros' commitment to service extends well beyond his professional duties. Mr. Ontiveros has taken to the front lines of community support following the countless fires that devastated Lake County, communicating important information and ensuring that Lake County residents have equitable access to emergency services and necessities during major disasters. Mr. Ontiveros is an ordained minister and faith leader. He works as a preacher in Middletown for the South Lake County community.

Mr. Speaker, it is fitting and proper that we honor La Voz director Edgar Ontiveros for his service, leadership, and dedication to the Lake County community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Cinthya Cisneros, a leader and public servant who has been named California's 4th Congressional District 2025 American Dream Award Recipient for Napa County. This award recognizes the achievements of immigrants in our district who have made remarkable contributions to our communities in the areas of Arts and Culture, Professional Achievement, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, or Community Service.

Ms. Cisneros was born in Michoacan, Mexico, as the oldest of three siblings and has grown up in Napa since the age of four. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Sonoma State University and holds a Single Subject Teaching Credential from Sacramento State University.

Ms. Cisneros began her career in 2018 working as a bartender shortly after finishing her last year of teaching high school chemistry. In 2020, she founded La Cheve Bakery and Brews, a family-owned Mexican bakery, craft beer taproom, and restaurant. She is also the owner of the upcoming restaurant Con Amor Botanas y Tequila, co-founder of La Lucha Wines, and advisory board member of the nonprofit scholarship organization 10,000 degrees.

Ms. Cisneros and La Cheve regularly give back to our community. Since its founding, La Cheve has provided scholarships for undocumented, Latino, and low-income, first-generation college students in the science and business field. La Cheve has also supported our community through fundraising efforts for organizations such as: If Given a Chance, Migrant Farmworkers, LGBTQ Connection, Puertas Abiertas, COPE, NEWS, Napa Valley Education Foundation, Red Cross, Molly's Angels, IIBA, Mariposa, Napa High School, Vintage High School, Valley Oak High School, Napa United, and Girls on the Run.

Ms. Cisneros has always dreamed of helping her parents, who she notes as being her biggest role models. At La Cheve, she works alongside them. For her work, Ms. Cisneros was recognized as this year's American Dream Award Recipient in Napa County.

Mr. Speaker, it is fitting and proper that we honor Cinthya Cisneros for her service and dedication to California's 4th District.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 25th anniversary of the St. Helena High School Agricultural Program, an esteemed organization of our Napa community. This milestone reflects decades of dedication, community support, and profound impact on students' futures. This program is more than just an educational opportunity; it is a cornerstone of the community.

The Agriculture Program at St. Helena High School aims to shape young minds, nurture responsible leaders, and prepare students for successful careers in agriculture and beyond. This program not only fosters practical skills and knowledge but also instills values such as stewardship, leadership, and community service in our students.

The St. Helena Agriculture Program has touched the lives of over 3,500+ students in the St. Helena community through positive experiences in relevant, rigorous, and relationship driven coursework and involvement in the National Future Farmers of America Organization. These opportunities have been made possible by the financial backing of the St. Helena Agriculture Booster Organization.

The Ag Boosters have supported state-of-the-art facilities improvements, curriculum development and equipment, student travel, student leadership conference participation, supervised agricultural experience participation, and making sure that all students can take advantage of what the Future Farmers of America and Agriculture Education have to offer.

Mr. Speaker, it is fitting and proper that we honor the St. Helena High School Agricultural Program on the 25th anniversary of their founding. Through their advocacy, leadership, and commitment to excellence, they have become a cornerstone of our Napa County's agricultural community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Andres Olmedo, a leader and public servant who has been named California's 4th Congressional District 2025 American Dream Award Recipient for Yolo County. This award recognizes the achievements of immigrants in our district who have made remarkable contributions to our communities in the areas of Arts and Culture, Professional Achievement, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, or Community Service.

Mr. Olmedo was born in Jocotepec, Jalisco, Mexico to Andres and Concha Olmedo. Mr. Olmedo and his wife Carolina are the proud parents of Andres, Alexis Andrea, and Johan Adrian, and the proud grandparents of Nicholas. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and a master's degree in Sports Science and Recreation.

In 1998, Mr. Olmedo started his teaching career instructing elementary, middle, and high school students in the Woodland Joint Unified District. Since then, he has served as an AP World Language Teacher, Girls Varsity Head Soccer Coach, and Boys Junior Varsity Soccer Coach at Woodland High School. He is also the founder and head coach of Woodland Community College Soccer and serves as a college advisor for Davis Legacy Soccer Club.

Mr. Olmedo has led his various soccer teams to local, regional, and state championships. He has helped countless student-athletes receive soccer scholarships to schools like UCLA and Stanford. Even more impressive, his World Language students have more than a 90 percent pass rate on their AP Exam. Under Mr. Olmedo's leadership, 9 out of every 10 of his students earns a high enough score on this very rigorous test that qualifies them for college credit.

Around our district, Mr. Olmedo is known for his constant mentorship and dedication to his students and players. He is always looking for ways to help students and athletes alike reach their goals, whatever they may be. For his work, Mr. Olmedo was recognized as this year's American Dream Award for Yolo county.

Mr. Speaker, it is fitting and proper that we honor Andres Olmedo for his service, leadership, and dedication to California's Fourth District.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Riitta DeAnda, a leader and public servant who has been named California's 4th Congressional District 2025 American Dream Award Recipient for Solano County. This award recognizes the achievements of immigrants in our district who have made remarkable contributions to our communities in the areas of Arts and Culture, Professional Achievement, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, or Community Service.

Mrs. DeAnda was born in Turku, Finland, and immigrated with her parents to Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, where they became Canadian citizens. Eight years later, they moved to Richmond, California, fulfilling her father's long-standing goal of settling in the United States. Mrs. DeAnda became a U.S. citizen at age 22.

Mrs. DeAnda worked for a large commercial insurance company in San Francisco for many years, after which she founded an insurance agency in Vallejo and later moved its office location to American Canyon. She became involved in the communities where her office was located by joining the local Chamber of Commerce. Mrs. DeAnda feels it is important to make a difference in the communities in which you work and live. In 2018, she sold the insurance agency but has not slowed down.

Around the district, Mrs. DeAnda is known for her enthusiasm and dedication to various organizations, many of which she has been involved with for years. Currently, Mrs. DeAnda serves as the Chair of the Napa-Solano Area Council on Aging, the Treasurer of Sierra Club Solano, and the Secretary of the Northern Solano Democratic Club. Additionally, she was a Board Member of Travis Unified School District and served as its President from 2020-2021. Mrs. DeAnda actively engages with our community as she serves as a Committee Member of Walk to End Alzheimer's Solano, leadership of Solano Together, and a Board Member of the Finnish American Home Association (FAHA). She is involved in organizations that reflect her personal experiences and values, allowing her to advocate for causes that resonate with her identity and represent the needs and perspectives of her community.

Mrs. DeAnda also aids our district by helping community members. Licensed by the IRS, Mrs. DeAnda has been able to help our community members prepare their tax return documents. Additionally, Mrs. DeAnda has helped produce a monthly newsletter for Councilmember Jeannette Wylie, has become a Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy counselor, and has helped distribute quilts to those in need through Lutheran World Relief. Her dedication to philanthropy and helping others is admirable and has a positive impact on our community.

Mrs. DeAnda is a powerful embodiment of civic engagement, where she has exercised her rights and voted in every election since she became a citizen. It is a right she is proud to have and even spurred her to join the Northern Solano Democratic Club, later becoming the organization's Secretary, and has phone-banked during numerous election cycles, motivating others to become civically involved.

Mrs. DeAnda earned her master's degree from San Francisco State University. She was married to the late James DeAnda and is the proud mother of their daughter, Kristina, who resides in Denver, Colorado, and their son, James, who lives in Vacaville with his wife and their five children.

Mr. Speaker, it is fitting and proper that we honor Riitta DeAnda for her service, leadership, and dedication to California's 4th District.

Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to amend the rule and to make in order the amendment at the desk that protects against any cuts to Medicaid and SNAP.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me time.

Mr. Speaker, this bill shamelessly hurts our constituents, cuts healthcare for 17 million Americans, and closes one in four nursing homes and many rural hospitals. It rips nutrition assistance away from 11 million Americans, and it cedes leadership in the green energy economy to China--to China.

It raises energy bills for hardworking Americans. It cuts Pell grants for millions of students. It adds $5 trillion to our national debt to give a tax break to billionaire donors who don't need the help in this environment. Mr. Speaker, $5 trillion will be added to our national debt.

It pushes the American Dream out of reach for millions of working- class Americans. Every Member who votes ``yes'' will forever carry the shame of betraying hardworking Americans and put our kids and our grandkids in great, great debt.

Mr. Speaker, I urge a ``no'' vote on this bill. It is bad for our constituents. It is bad for America. It is bad for our future.

Mr. Speaker, I have a point of parliamentary inquiry.

As a combat veteran, I want to know--

Mr. Speaker, I move that the House do now adjourn.

Mr. Speaker, I demand a recorded vote.