[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 179 (Tuesday, October 28, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1009-E1010]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    HONORING KARI BIRDSEYE AS ONE OF CALIFORNIA'S 8TH CONGRESSIONAL 
                      DISTRICT'S WOMEN OF THE YEAR

                                  _____
                                 

                          HON. JOHN GARAMENDI

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 28, 2025

  Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Kari Birdseye, 
recognized as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of 
the Year. Kari is a respected public servant, environmental advocate, 
and community leader whose commitment to civic engagement has made a 
lasting impact on the City of Benicia and the broader Solano County 
region. Elected to the Benicia City Council in 2022, Kari has served 
her community with distinction, building upon a decade of public 
service that began in 2012. She served on the Benicia Human Services 
Board for eight years and as Chair of the Benicia Planning Commission 
for six years. In addition to her local leadership, Kari currently 
serves on the Boards of Directors for the Green Empowerment Zone and 
Marin Clean Energy and is the incoming First Vice President of the 
League of California Cities, North Bay Division. She also contributes 
to regional policymaking as Southern County Vice Chair of the Solano 
County Democratic Central Committee Executive Board. Beyond her civic 
work, Kari has built an accomplished career as Regional Media Director 
for the Natural Resources Defense Council, leading a team that bridges 
environmental science and public communication. A former CNN journalist 
and Emmy Award recipient for coverage of the 1996 Olympic Park bombing, 
Kari brings a wealth of experience in storytelling, environmental 
management, and public outreach. She holds a bachelor's degree in 
journalism from San Francisco State University and a Master of Science 
in Environmental Management from the University of San Francisco. 
Kari's leadership is characterized by persistence and heart. After 
losing her

[[Page E1010]]

first bid for city council, she persevered and ultimately earned the 
trust of her community. Through her integrity, vision, and dedication, 
Kari Birdseye continues to inspire those around her to serve with 
courage and purpose. On behalf of the people of California's 8th 
Congressional District, it is my honor to recognize Kari Birdseye for 
her exemplary service and unwavering commitment to our community.

                          ____________________