On 2026-10-06, Representative John Garamendi (D-CA-8) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING WOMEN OF THE YEAR: CHRISTINA STRAWBRIDGE" in the House.
HONORING WOMEN OF THE YEAR: CHRISTINA STRAWBRIDGE Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 158 (Tuesday, October 6, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 158 (Tuesday, October 6, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E1036-E1037] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING WOMEN OF THE YEAR: CHRISTINA STRAWBRIDGE ______ HON. JOHN GARAMENDI of california in the house of representatives Tuesday, October 6, 2026 Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Christina Strawbridge as one of [[Page E1037]] California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. For more than three decades, Christina has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to strengthening the City of Benicia through public service, small-business leadership, historic preservation, and community involvement. Christina owned and operated a successful downtown Benicia business for more than twenty years, contributing to the vitality of the city's historic downtown while mentoring and supporting fellow entrepreneurs. She later served two terms on Benicia's City Council, where she championed economic development, historic preservation, and initiatives that improved residents' quality of life. Among her most significant accomplishments was helping lead efforts to protect Benicia's two State Parks from closure during California's budget crisis. Her advocacy helped preserve important public spaces and historic resources, including the Benicia State Capitol, Fischer-Hanlon House, and Benicia State Recreation Area. Christina also played an important role in revitalizing the Southern Pacific Railroad Depot, helping transform the historic landmark into a community gathering place. As publisher of Benicia Magazine, Christina highlighted the people, businesses, artists, and organizations that make Benicia unique. She is also a founding board member and current President of Benicia Main Street, where she supports small businesses, promotes tourism, organizes community events, and works to preserve downtown Benicia's character. Christina's decades of leadership have strengthened Benicia's economy, preserved its history, protected public spaces, and inspired others to serve. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor Christina Strawbridge for her outstanding contributions to our community. ____________________