CVV News l February 29, 2024
As Black History Month comes to a close today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) introduced legislation to award a posthumous Congressional Gold Medal, the nation’s highest civilian award, to American professional boxer and activist Muhammad Ali. The Muhammad Ali Congressional Gold Medal Act would honor the life, legacy, and accomplishments that made Ali one of the greatest athletes and public figures in American history. Representative André Carson (D-Ind.-07) is leading companion legislation in the House of Representatives.
Often referred to as “The Greatest,” Ali earned his title through his inspiring athletic achievements, dedication to ensuring that all Americans have equal rights, and advocacy for underserved communities around the world. Throughout his illustrious career, Ali won three world heavyweight boxing championships and a gold medal at the 1960 Olympic Games in Rome, amid many other accomplishments. His devotion to humanitarian causes and racial equality earned him many accolades, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, an Amnesty International Lifetime Achievement Award, torchbearer at the 1996 Atlanta Olympic games, and his selection as a “United Nations Messenger of Peace.”
“Muhammad Ali served as an example of strength, service, and dedication for all generations, from his boxing career as one of the most decorated athletes of all time to helping our nation overcome the legacy of Jim Crow and segregation in sports,” said Senator Padilla. “He left a lasting impact on the Los Angeles community and inspired generations of Americans to pursue their dreams. The Congressional Gold Medal is a fitting award for an American who devoted his life and career to uplifting underserved communities in the U.S. and abroad.”
Ali lived in Los Angeles for roughly seven years, and five of his professional fights were held in Southern California. Due to his courage and conviction, the 1987 California Bicentennial Foundation for the U.S. Constitution selected Ali to personify the vitality of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.
Ali worked tirelessly to support medical research and charitable organizations, including founding the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center and raising over $50 million for Parkinson’s research.
Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.), and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) are cosponsoring the bill.
Modesto Chamber of Commerce Stands with Adam Gray for Congress
CVV News September 23, 2022
(MODESTO) – The Modesto Chamber of Commerce – the city’s largest business group – has endorsed Assemblymember Adam C. Gray (D-Merced) in his bid to represent the people of California’s 13th Congressional District.
“I’m proud of this endorsement,” said Gray, who has served a portion of Modesto and the west side of Stanislaus County in the Assembly for the past ten years. “The Chamber is involved in the day-to-day workings of most every business in Modesto. It knows the challenges of trying to make a business work in such uncertain times when you have to deal with changing markets, supply-chain problems, drought, and even a pandemic.
“They are great allies in our goal of creating jobs and helping families prosper. I look forward to working with the Chamber to make certain our area will thrive going forward.”
Gray was able to point to specific accomplishments that have benefited the Modesto area, such as finding $1 million to fund the VOLT Institute, which works with local employers to train young adults to work as machinists and large-equipment maintenance workers to meet regional employment needs.
The Chamber recognized Gray’s essential role in protecting the region’s water. He took the lead in organizing a rally on the Capitol steps in 2018 to protest efforts by the State Water Board to commandeer vast amounts of water currently used for agriculture in Stanislaus County. The rally drew some 1,500 people, the largest in Sacramento that year. The state recently agreed on a framework for Voluntary Agreements that will ensure there is enough water for area farmers to grow food for the nation.
“Without water, our region’s economy will be ruined – just as the lives of thousands of people will be ruined,” said Gray. “This an ongoing issue. Working with the Chamber we will remain vigilant as we take this issue to the halls of Congress.”
Gray has also been at the forefront to provide funding for floodplain restoration, establishment of a medical school at UC Merced, expanded residency programs in Modesto hospitals, and more funding for schools. He worked across party lines to bring the ACE train to Modesto, which is expected to start carrying passengers to the Bay Area by 2025.
Gray, born and raised in Merced, is the only candidate who lives in the 13th District. A full list of Gray’s endorsements can be found here.
Adam Gray is running to represent portions of Fresno, Madera, Merced, Stanislaus, and San Joaquin Counties in the 13th Congressional District. He currently serves in the California State Assembly representing Merced County and Stanislaus County.
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