[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 161 (Friday, September 17, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E984]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    REMEMBERING JAY ROBERT SORENSEN

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOHN GARAMENDI

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 17, 2021

  Mr. GARAMENDI. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory and 
life of Jay Robert Sorensen, a U.S. Navy veteran, dedicated public 
servant, and lifelong outdoorsman. Jay's passion for the outdoors was 
not limited to his own fishing, as he took any opportunity to share 
California's natural wonders with those around him. His endless love of 
the water led him to become one of California's most outspoken 
conservationists, constantly working to protect the state's complex 
ecosystems.
  Born on September 28, 1936, Jay grew up in Stockton before enlisting 
in the Navy in 1954. Upon the conclusion of his service, Jay returned 
to Stockton where he spent the next 17 years working for the Stockton 
Unified School District. When presented with the opportunity to turn 
his lifelong passion for the outdoors into a career, Jay purchased a 
local bait shop where he spent decades helping others enjoy the Delta 
as much as he did.
  Jay's passion for fishing led to him becoming an outspoken 
conservationist. He was among the earliest leaders to draw attention to 
declining fish populations and the loss of crucial spawning 
environments in the Delta. In order to protect the Delta's fragile 
ecosystem, Jay helped found the California Striped Bass Association and 
wrote about the need to protect fish populations in numerous 
publications. I was lucky to work alongside Jay for many years in my 
efforts to protect California's unique natural gems. His passion for 
the Delta was unmatched, and his legacy will live on through the 
continued efforts to preserve its wildlife populations.
  He is survived by his two step-daughters Sandi Smith and Theresa 
Forbes. I know that they, along with the rest of his extended family 
and friends, join me in celebrating his life and his memory.

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