Congratulating President Chris Bailey on His Retirement

Floor Speech

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Ms. PEREZ. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to thank president Chris Bailey, who is retiring after dedicating 12 years to Lower Columbia College. Throughout his tenure, he diligently served students, staff, and the community, transforming Lower Community College into a vital educational hub in the region.

As a testament to Chris' leadership, Lower Columbia College developed the Lower Columbia Regional Center, enabling folks to work and access higher education pathways. Chris was pivotal in introducing the college's first two bachelor of applied science degrees, as well as a vocational skills center, reflecting his commitment to expanding career opportunities for those at the college.

We have been lucky to have a leader like Chris at Lower Columbia College. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chris for his dedication and wish him all the best in a well-deserved retirement. Recognizing Mallonee Farms

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Ms. PEREZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mallonee Farms, a family-owned dairy farm in my district. A few weeks ago, I was able to visit the farm in Curtis, Washington, where I met the farm's owner, Maynard Mallonee. Maynard is a third-generation dairy farmer and a member of the Organic Valley co-op.

During my visit, I toured their farm, saw their new robotic milkers, and heard how Congress can support small, organic farms. Maynard is passionate about working for something bigger than himself. He works to be a good steward of his land, and he is already taking steps with his son, Jack, to ensure that the family farm continues for generations to come.

Everyone at Mallonee Farms is fighting hard for their farm, and I am grateful to be in this fight with them. My focus is to ensure that Federal policy supports small, family farms like theirs. Cowlitz Complex Fires in Gifford Pinchot National Forest

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Ms. PEREZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to address the Cowlitz Complex fires in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Thirty fires might sound like a bad movie plot, but with 695 acres in flames and 342 hardworking folks trying to keep it all under control, it is the reality of our community.

To the diligent task forces--the California Incident Management Team 13 and Rocky Mountain Incident Management Team 2--patrolling and monitoring the fires, especially around Pothole, Jackpot, and the Adams Fork regions--your steadfastness does not go unnoticed.

We are thankful that potential threats, like the heat near Pothole, turned out to be benign. The task forces' preemptive actions are the backbone of our community's safety.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the folks working these fires. Their tireless efforts protect our homes, our forests, and our future. Their commitment to contain these forests showcases the resilience of our community.

Honoring a Dedicated Public Servant, Sergeant Richard Kelly

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Ms. PEREZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a dedicated public servant and cherished member of our community, Sergeant Richard Kelly.

On August 10, we lost Sergeant Kelly unexpectedly due to a medical emergency while in the line of duty. He was only 54.

Sergeant Kelly's commitment to safeguarding our community was unwavering. He served the Battle Ground Police Department since 2005, where he ultimately rose to the rank of sergeant in 2019.

Not only was he an officer of the law, he was a husband, father, brother, and a pillar of our community. He was respected and loved by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

I personally recall his attentive presence at my Battle Ground townhall, a testament to his deep sense of duty and connection to the people that he served. His loss leaves a void in our community and in the hearts of all who knew him.

Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life and service of Sergeant Richard Kelly. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, his colleagues, and the entire Battle Ground community during this time. May his dedication serve as a lasting inspiration to us all. Remembering and Honoring Corporal Zachary ``Zac'' Clayton Merrill

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Ms. PEREZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember and honor Corporal Zachary ``Zac'' Clayton Merrill, who passed away on August 20.

After graduating from college, Zac joined the Army, distinguishing himself as captain of the 82nd Airborne and leading an explosive ordnance team in Afghanistan.

His commitment and valor earned him the Bronze Star, among other commendations. After the Army, Zac's call to service led him to the Vancouver Police Department, where he became an integral member of the crisis negotiation team and was eventually named unit leader. However, beyond the badges and commendations, Zac was a loving husband, son, brother, and uncle.

He also had a profound bond with his grandfather, Stanley Merrill, also a Korean war veteran, which speaks volumes about his deep roots in service and sacrifice.

Corporal Merrill's legacy of service, both on the battlefield and on our streets, will forever inspire and remind us of the sacrifices made by those who choose to serve.

Mr. Speaker, I send my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

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