[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 95 (Tuesday, June 1, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E598]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    HONORING THE LIFE OF TOM GUARINO

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. MARK DeSAULNIER

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, June 1, 2021

  Mr. DeSAULNIER. Madam Speaker, I rise today with Congresswoman 
Barbara Lee and Congressman Eric Swalwell to recognize the life of Tom 
Guarino.
  A lifelong Californian, Tom was born in Hollywood in 1953, and grew 
up in Covina. Tom graduated from California State Polytechnic 
University, Pomona in 1977, and later earned a certificate in 
Organizational Management from the University of California Los 
Angeles. In 1978, Tom moved to northern California, where he began a 
career in journalism. He worked as a radio news director, correspondent 
for the Sacramento Bee, and freelance writer for the Associated Press, 
United Press International, Mutual Radio, and NBC Radio. Tom later 
joined Assemblymember Chris Chandler's office in Yuba City, where he 
continued building community relations. Tom's experience was further 
broadened by his work as the CEO of the Chico and San Leandro Chambers 
of Commerce. In San Leandro, Tom worked with the City Council on a 
project called ``Business Walk,'' where the chamber and the council 
visited every business in the city to assess their needs. Tom's ability 
to make connections between the public and private sectors not only 
increased chamber membership in San Leandro, but also helped develop 
successful partnerships and new opportunities.
  Tom combined his many years of experience and began working for 
Pacific Gas & Electric Company (PG&E). We were fortunate to have Tom as 
PG&E's Senior Government Relations Representative with the East Bay 
Public Affairs Team. His breadth of experience and vast knowledge 
allowed Tom to navigate relationships with elected officials, community 
leaders, and organizations. He was known for always answering the call 
for help and successfully engaging individuals with their public 
utility provider.
  Tom's involvement in the community, however, went beyond his work 
with PG&E. His personal philanthropy extended to, among other things, 
the arts, parks, youth; especially those in foster care; and aging 
adults. He supported numerous local organizations in any way he could, 
including volunteering his time. It was through Tom's natural ability 
to build authentic connections that he became a friend to so many.
  Sadly, Tom passed away in December 2020, at the age of 67. He was a 
cherished member of Contra Costa and Alameda Counties, and he will be 
remembered for his generosity, integrity, and humor. Please join me, 
Congresswoman Barbara Lee, and Congressman Eric Swalwell in honoring 
Tom for his many contributions to our community.

                          ____________________