Floor SpeechCeremonial2026-10-05

HONORING WOMEN OF THE YEAR: ELANA BOLDS

Gun Policy

Context

On 2026-10-05, Representative John Garamendi (D-CA-8) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING WOMEN OF THE YEAR: ELANA BOLDS" in the House.

Full Text

HONORING WOMEN OF THE YEAR: ELANA BOLDS

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 157 (Monday, October 5, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 157 (Monday, October 5, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1015] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING WOMEN OF THE YEAR: ELANA BOLDS ______ HON. JOHN GARAMENDI of california in the house of representatives Monday, October 5, 2026 Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Elana ``Lana'' Bolds as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. As a community leader, Elana cares for her neighbors, helps families in need, and makes herself available whenever people call. Since 1995, Elana has organized community events, talent shows, youth opportunities, and other activities that give children positive opportunities to connect and thrive. She has worked in community centers, schools, and programs, helping young people understand the consequences of their choices. More than an event organizer, she creates a true sense of community in her neighborhood, making children feel seen, protected, celebrated, and connected. Elana is also a funeral singer, where she witnessed far too many children from her neighborhood lose their lives to violence. Twenty years ago, she channeled her grief and concern into establishing the annual ``Put the Guns Down'' anti-violence event. Through her organization, Visions of Hope, she continues to bring families, youth, service providers, community leaders, and public safety partners together to address bullying and violence prevention. Elana's commitment to her community has endured through personal loss, the COVID-19 pandemic, and other hardships. While she has mourned children she once worked with, her guidance and unwavering presence have helped many others grow into adulthood. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Elana ``Lana'' Bolds for her positive contributions to our community. ____________________

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HONORING WOMEN OF THE YEAR: ELANA BOLDS Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 157 (Monday, October 5, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 157 (Monday, October 5, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1015] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING WOMEN OF THE YEAR: ELANA BOLDS ______ HON. JOHN GARAMENDI of california in the house of representatives Monday, October 5, 2026 Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Elana ``Lana'' Bolds as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. As a community leader, Elana cares for her neighbors, helps families in need, and makes herself available whenever people call. Since 1995, Elana has organized community events, talent shows, youth opportunities, and other activities that give children positive opportunities to connect and thrive. She has worked in community centers, schools, and programs, helping young people understand the consequences of their choices. More than an event organizer, she creates a true sense of community in her neighborhood, making children feel seen, protected, celebrated, and connected. Elana is also a funeral singer, where she witnessed far too many children from her neighborhood lose their lives to violence. Twenty years ago, she channeled her grief and concern into establishing the annual ``Put the Guns Down'' anti-violence event. Through her organization, Visions of Hope, she continues to bring families, youth, service providers, community leaders, and public safety partners together to address bullying and violence prevention. Elana's commitment to her community has endured through personal loss, the COVID-19 pandemic, and other hardships. While she has mourned children she once worked with, her guidance and unwavering presence have helped many others grow into adulthood. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Elana ``Lana'' Bolds for her positive contributions to our community. ____________________