Henry Cuellar

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 15th International Festival of Language and Culture (IFLC).

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the life of Mrs. Peggy Dietrick, a beloved artist and entrepreneur from Laredo, Texas. Mrs. Dietrick was born on July 24th, 1924, to parents Adolph and Flavia (Branch) Dietrick in Salem, Illinois. Over the course of her career, she traveled throughout the world to perform. Her career led her to Las Vegas, where she performed for several years before ultimately moving to Texas. After moving to Laredo in 1965, Dietrick established the Laredo Beauty College, which is still in operation today. An actress, musician and singer, Dietrick was unquestionably an instrumental force in the local theater community. She was involved in productions with the Laredo Little Theater, where she starred in many plays, performed with the Laredo Philharmonic Orchestra and was a patron of the Laredo Theater Guild International. Her dedication to the arts serves as a model that all should strive to emulate. Serving others was at the heart of all that Dietrick did throughout her life. Her commitment to improving the lives of others, such as through helping people to find employment opportunities after graduating from the beauty college, exemplifies her passion for serving others. In addition, her commitment to the arts highlights her firm belief in the value of education for the public. Without a doubt, her life clearly demonstrates what it means to be a charitable and caring person. Peggy is survived by her husband, John of St. Louis, Missouri; nephew, Michael Rhoads of San Antonio, Texas; niece, Deborah Dietrick; great-nephews, Christopher Holm (Ashley), Andrew Holm (Anne), Scott Holm (Susan) and Chad Rhoads; as well as many great-great nieces, nephews, other family members and countless friends. Both her family and the community as a whole will remember Peggy for her unforgettable charm, utter kindness and commitment to service. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have the opportunity to recognize the life of Mrs. Peggy Dietrick.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise to thank Chairman Frelinghuysen and Ranking Member Lowey for their hard work on this good bill. This bill today is a compromise bill. It is a good bill because this is the way Congress is supposed to be working. I say it is a good bill because it provides an increase to the Pell grants, authorizes them in the summertime, year long. That will be good to get kids into education. It provides $2 billion to the National Institutes of Health. It provides a solution to the citrus greening crisis that is impacting our citrus growers in south Texas and other parts. It provides funding for 10 additional immigration judges and their support staff to help cut down the backlog of over half a million cases that we have on top of the 55 immigration judges we had last year. As Chairman Carter said a few minutes ago, it adds $1.5 billion to improve the Nation's border security without funding the medieval wall that we have. Again, I thank all of my colleagues for working in a bipartisan way.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, on Monday, May 1, I was delayed in my travels back to Washington due to a delayed flight. If I had been present, I would have voted: ``Yea,'' on rollcall 237, passage of H.R. 910--Fair Access to Investment Research Act of 2017; ``Yea,'' on rollcall 238, passage of H.R. 1312--Small Business Capital Formation Enhancement Act; and ``Yea,'' on rollcall 239, passage of H.R. 657--Follow the Rules Act.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today along with Congressman Filemon Vela Jr. and Congressman Vicente Gonzalez to commemorate the life of Congressman Eligio ``Kika'' de la Garza of Texas' 15th district. Congressman de la Garza was born on September 22nd, 1927, in Mercedes, Texas and raised in Mission, Texas. When he was 17 years old, he enlisted in the United States Navy, where he served during the final months of World War II. Upon his return home, he enrolled in Edinburg Junior College, and later transferred to St. Mary's University in San Antonio. Eventually, he would serve during the Korean War as a second lieutenant with the Army's 37th Division Artillery. After his service, he went on to earn a law degree from St. Mary's University in San Antonio. At 24 years old, Congressman de la Garza was elected to the Texas House of Representatives. He was an important leader in his community, who served as delegate in the Texas House for six consecutive terms. In 1965, Congressman de la Garza was elected to the United States House of Representatives, where he spent the next 32 years advocating for civil rights, food security, affordable health care, and access to education for all citizens. He was first a member, and later the chairman of the U.S. House Agricultural Committee. He and his committee crafted legislation focused on rural economic development, improved nutrition, and environmental protection. His legislative programs often brought together farmers, ranchers, consumers, and other interest groups. During his career in the House of Representatives, he also advocated for improved U.S. and Mexico relations including the North American Free Trade Agreement. For his efforts, he later received the Order of the Aztec Eagle, the highest honor Mexico can give to non-citizens. Congressman de la Garza was a pioneer who paved the way for more Hispanics to participate in our nation's legislative process. For a time, he was the only Hispanic member of the Texas House, and later became the second Hispanic member of Congress from the state of Texas. His dedication to the Hispanic community is evident in his role as a founding member of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. Congressman de la Garza was an inspiration for the Hispanic community, and has empowered others to become active in our legislative process. His memory will be honored by his family, his friends, and the communities which he served. He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Lucille, as well as his three children, eight grandchildren, and one great-grand child. He will also continue to be honored at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, where they have the E. ``Kika'' de la Garza Endowed Scholarship Fund. Mr. Speaker, we are honored to have the opportunity to remember the legacy of Congressman Eligio ``Kika'' de la Garza. His dedication to his country, and his community, will not be forgotten.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. I thank Mr. Johnson. I thank Ranking Member Conyers for the leadership that he provided the committee for so many years. I thank Chairman Goodlatte and Congressman Graves for working in a bipartisan way. Mr. Chairman, this amendment is common sense. It calls on the government to bring transparency to the major rules. Once an agency finalizes a major rule, that is the end of it. They are not required to review the benefits or the economic impacts. This amendment, however, holds the agency accountable by requiring that it look back and assess the costs and benefits of that rule after it has taken effect. Should the cost of the regulation exceed the proposed costs under the rule, then, under this amendment, this agency will report back the increase to the Congress. This amendment would facilitate a dialogue between the agency and the stakeholders. If the costs have gone up, then the agency must open up a comment period to hear the stakeholders and consider possible modifications or alternatives to reduce the cost and increase the benefits. We do that in Congress. Every time we pass a piece of legislation, we go back and fine tune the legislation, and I think we need to do the same thing here. Again, we must not allow regulations to run out of control. We should hold agencies accountable. This amendment will bring transparency and begin those conversations between stakeholders and the agencies. Again, I thank Congressman Graves for this bipartisan amendment.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Butch Ramirez, a professional photographer whose work has been chosen to be displayed as part of the newly commissioned nuclear submarine, the USS Illinois (SSN-786). Growing up in Webb County, Texas, hunting and fishing were regular parts of Mr. Ramirez's life. Mr. Ramirez decided to expand his passion for hunting and fishing by pursuing an interest in photography. He quickly developed a talent and enthusiasm for capturing some of nature's most beautiful and rare wildlife in the South Texas area. Over the course of his career capturing photos of wildlife, Mr. Ramirez's photographs have been selected for the cover of magazines on 25 separate occasions. One of Mr. Ramirez's most notable pieces of photography is his photo of the White-tailed deer that has been chosen to represent the crest of this newest Virginia class submarine through an extensive selecting process. Mr. Ramirez has also led exclusive photo workshops for people from all over the world at his ranch in Laredo, TX. In addition, his ranch, Rocking R6, is an official stop for the Laredo Birding Festival. Those interested in the history and photography of animals come to his ranch specifically because of the rare species of birds that can be found there including, the Crested Caracara, Green Jay, and the Red-billed Pigeon. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to recognize the work of Mr. Butch Ramirez.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise to commemorate the life of one of Laredo's most caring and dedicated citizens, Mr. John McKeown. Mr. McKeown was born on February 4th, 1929, in Tulsa, Oklahoma to John Mayo McKeown and Mary Grace McVey McKeown. He attended Cascia Hall Preparatory School in Tulsa and eventually went to the U.S. Naval Academy where he graduated with a degree in Chemical Engineering. At the age of 24, Mr. McKeown entered the Korean War where he served on a transport ship and a destroyer. For his service he received the National Defense Medal, Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, and the China Service Medal. After the war, he moved to Texas to work for a maquiladora that manufactured electronics. It was during this time that he met his beloved wife Jeanette. They soon got married and eventually had two children. Mr. McKeown also went on to start a successful business called McKeown Customs Brokers Inc. which saw over forty years of success. Mr. McKeown was very involved in his local community. He not only helped start one of Laredo's first youth soccer teams but helped referee Saturdays and Sundays. He was also an active member of the Laredo Licensed U.S. Customs Brokers Association, Laredo Noon Rotary Club, St. Patrick Men's Club, and was past president of the Laredo Animal Protective Society. Mr. McKeown, however, was most noted for his work with helping local veterans. As an active member of the Laredo Korean War Veterans Association and chaplain of the Laredo 1959 chapter, Mr. McKeown was considered one of the first people veterans could turn to in their time of need. He was also involved with helping to designate segments of state highways 359, 16, and 285 as the Veterans of the Korean War Memorial Highway. He even went so far as to use his own money to help pay for the highway signs. Mr. McKeown is survived by his wife, Jeanette Moser McKeown; daughter, Carolyn J. McKeown; grandchildren, Carolyn Lauren Hinojosa Walker, Ann Michelle Hinojosa (Ari) Hoffman, and Eduardo Javier Hinojosa Jr.; great grandchildren, William Christopher Walker, Rheya Ashley Walker; siblings, Patricia (Herbert) Stanley, and Thomas (Ruth) McKeown. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have the opportunity to remember the legacy of Mr. John McKeown.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the career of Dr. Louis J. Agnese, Jr. who served as president of the University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) in San Antonio, Texas for thirty-one years. Dr. Louis J. Agnese grew up in Brooklyn, New York, as the youngest of five children. He received his Bachelor of Arts in History and Psychology from St. Mary of the Plains College; his Master of Education in Counseling and an Education Specialist Degree in Supervision of Counseling Services from Gannon University; and a Ph.D. in Counselor Education from The University of Pittsburgh. He went on to work at Briar Cliff University before interviewing for the presidency of Incarnate Word in 1985. UIW eventually hired Dr. Agnese to become the university's eighth president. Dr. Agnese was only 33 at the time, making him one of the youngest college presidents in the nation. Immediately upon being hired, he sought ways to help improve the university. He spent much of his time researching the university's history, meeting with staff and faculty, as well as looking for innovative ways to help improve student enrollment, which had been declining for several years. During Dr. Agnese's presidency, student global enrollment rose from 1,296 students in 1985 to 11,422 in 2016. This growth turned UIW from the 19th largest private university in Texas to the 3rd largest private university in the state. The number of living alumni has increased from 8,000 in 1985 to nearly 40,000 today. Not only did the student enrollment grow, but the number of academic programs doubled. The university created its first Ph.D. program and added professional doctoral programs in pharmacy, optometry, physical therapy, nursing practice, business administration, and beginning in 2017, osteopathic medicine. The university's endowment also increased from $3 million in 1985 to $130 million today, while the school's budget grew from $2 million to $217 million. UIW has received numerous recognitions throughout Dr. Agnese's tenure. The university has been noted for eight consecutive years as one of the Great Colleges to Work For in the U.S. by the Chronicle of Higher Education, chosen as one of the Top Workplaces in San Antonio by The San Antonio Express-News, included in The Chronicle's national Top 10 Honor Roll category for medium-sized universities for the seventh straight year, and today, with more than 1,100 employees, UIW has an estimated $100 million impact on the San Antonio economy. UIW is also currently ranked No. 1 nationally among private, not-for-profit universities in conferring the most bachelor's degrees to Hispanics, a group that continues to be underrepresented nationally in higher education. Dr. Agnese's long and successful career has brought with it numerous awards. His many honors include: the Humanitarian Award from the National Conference of Christians and Jews, the Outstanding leader in Catholic education by the Archdiocese of San Antonio, the Ford Salute to Education Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to higher education, the Sister Cecilia Bush Award from the Dear Neighbor Ministries for his commitment to Minority Education, and multiple honorary doctorates along with several distinguished alumni awards. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have the opportunity to remember the legacy of UIW's eighth president, Dr. Louis J. Agnese, Jr.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the life of Detective Benjamin Edward Marconi of the San Antonio Police Department who was tragically killed in the line of duty on November 20th, 2016. Detective Marconi was born in the City of San Antonio on January 8th, 1966 to James and Minerva Marconi. In the mid-1970s, Detective Marconi and his family moved to Floresville, Texas, where he lived until he graduated from Floresville High School. After receiving a business degree from Texas A&I-Kingsville, Detective Marconi later joined the San Antonio Police Department, where he served for 20 years. Throughout his life, Detective Marconi was always held in high regard by his family members, friends and colleagues for his dedication to serving the public as well as his unwavering care and compassion for his family, whom he loved dearly. His friends and family cherished his ability to put a smile on anyone's face, bringing about joy and laughter wherever he went. Detective Marconi's commitment to protecting the people of San Antonio led to his distinguished career in law enforcement as a member of the Special Victims Unit for SAPD. A decorated police officer, he had the distinct honor and privilege of assuming the rank of Detective in Major Crimes. His passion for serving the community is an example that each of us should strive to follow. Detective Marconi is survived by his son, Dane Marconi; grandson Mason Marconi; stepdaughter Jacy Lewis; brother Tom Marconi and wife Diana, their sons, Adam and Andrew Marconi, and their grand-daughter, Anastazia Zamora Marconi; sister Debbie Saldana and husband Danny and their sons, Ross Gonzales Jr. and Nick Saldana, their daughter, Danielle Saldana, and their granddaughter, Hailey Gonzales; sister Terri Marconi McKnight and her son, Blake Kirkland; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. The legacy of Detective Marconi lives on through the kindness and compassion that he shared with those who surrounded him. His dedication to the people of San Antonio will be remembered throughout the greater Bexar County community. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have the opportunity to remember the legacy of Detective Benjamin Marconi.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mrs. Sylvia L. Hernandez, Regional Administrator for the U.S. General Services Administration's (GSA) Greater Southwest Region, who will be retiring after 38 years of service Mrs. Hernandez was born on May 31, 1956 in Deming, New Mexico. She attended Deming High School and eventually received her Bachelor of Arts degrees from New Mexico State University and the University of Texas at Arlington. She also earned a Master's Certification in Telecommunications Management from the University of Dallas, Texas. After college, Mrs. Hernandez would soon join the GSA, starting a career that expanded over three decades. Mrs. Hernandez's hard work and dedication at GSA allowed her to serve in several important capacities throughout her time in the organization. She served as Director for the Technical Services Division, Federal Acquisition Service (FAS), in the GSA Greater Southwest Region. In addition, she served as the Acting Deputy Regional Administrator for the Greater Southwest Region. Mrs. Hernandez's experience eventually led her to be appointed as the Acting Regional Administrator for the GSA's Greater Southwest Region, through which she oversaw all of GSA's activities in Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas as the Regional Administrator. Mrs. Hernandez's success with GSA earned her the prestigious FAS Commissioner's Award. Mrs. Hernandez will now get to spend more time with what she values most: her family, which includes her husband of 38 years, their children, Claudia Hernandez and Eloy Hernandez, and grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to recognize the service of Mrs. Sylvia L. Hernandez whose dedication to work and family serves as a model for us all.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the life of one of Laredo's most passionate educators, Lupita Cortez. Mrs. Cortez was born in Laredo, Texas on the 16th of February in 1956 to Teresa and Vicente Gutierrez. After graduating high school in 1974, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Texas A&M--Kingsville and a Master of Science in Educational Administration from Texas A&M International University. Her passion for learning led her to dedicate her life to teaching the children of Laredo through the Laredo Independent School District, where she worked to better students' lives for over 35 years. Mrs. Cortez's devotion to the school district led her to assume the role of principal at the elementary, middle and high school levels. She ended her career in education at Don Jose Gallego Elementary School, a school given its name to appreciate and honor the contributions of her very own grandfather. Throughout her life and career, Mrs. Cortez, was always held in high regard because of her unwavering belief in love and selflessness, as well as her steadfast leadership. Through a combination of optimism and strong will, Mrs. Cortez worked hard to bring out the best in everyone in her company. This extended to her children as well, who have gone on to excel in the fields of education, medicine and law. She held herself to the highest of standards in both her professional and personal life, and this was reflected in the way that she interacted with those around her: treating everyone with the utmost kindness and respect. Mrs. Cortez is survived by her parents, Teresa and Vicente Gutierrez; siblings, Vicente (Gloria) Gutierrez, Jr., Teresita Gutierrez, Margie Gutierrez, Javier (Elvira) Gutierrez and Nora (Ernesto) Meza; husband, Oscar Cortez; and children, Christine Alyson Cortez, James Vincent Cortez, M.D., Leslie Ann Cortez and Oscar Cortez, Jr. Her legacy will remain strong through the seeds of hope, wisdom and endurance that she planted in those around her. The mentoring and guidance that she provided will persevere throughout the community she touched. Her passion for serving others through her love of education will not be forgotten, and her dedication to her work is a model that all should strive to emulate. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have the opportunity to remember the legacy of Lupita Cortez.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the retirement of Mr. Paco Valentin after 37 years of dedicated service to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Mr. Valentin was born on November 14, 1951 in Brownsville, Texas. After graduating from St. Joseph Academy high school in Brownsville, he went to Texas State University, where he received a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture. Mr. Valentin began his career with the USDA in 1979. Throughout his tenure, he served in numerous leadership roles including USDA Rural Development Housing Loan Specialist, Assistant County Supervisor, and eventually County Supervisor for the USDA Farmers Home Administration. In 2009, the Obama Administration appointed Mr. Valentin to be the Texas State Director of Rural Development for the USDA. During his tenure as State Director, Rural Development has provided nearly $12 billion in rural investments throughout Texas for housing, rural utilities, community facilities, and rural business and cooperative development. He also dedicated his time to the promotion, retention, and recruitment of minorities and women, as well as establishing a diverse senior management workforce in an effort to create jobs and spur economic growth in rural communities with limited resources and incomes below the poverty line. Mr. Valentin dedicated his professional career to working for agricultural and rural interests. His passion and devotion for helping others serves as a model for all of us. Among his numerous awards, he has been recognized with the Habitat Texas 2014 Statewide Community Partner of the Year Award, 2013 Statewide Rural Leadership Award by the Coordinating and Development Corporation of the Ark-La-Tex region, the recipient of the Urban Counties Leadership Award in 2010, and awarded the USDA Rural Development Distinguished Service Award. Upon retiring, Mr. Valentin plans to spend his time in the company of his wife, Angie, and their two daughters, Jordan and Taylor. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have shared with you the legacy of Mr. Paco Valentin, who has had the support and confidence of the Texas Delegation and was honored with the privilege of serving as a presidential appointee under the Obama administration.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. Neal) and his staff for helping to put this together. I appreciate it. I also want to thank the gentleman from Louisiana (Mr. Boustany) and his staff for putting this bill on a very fast-moving track. And in particular, I want to thank my good old friend--and I say ``good old friend'' in a nice way--Chairman Kevin Brady. We go back to working together in the State legislature. We have been working in Texas on issues like this for so many years, and I certainly want to thank Chairman Brady for his work and the bipartisan staff for moving this bill quickly. In particular, I want to thank my colleagues. Mr. Hurd over here, who has a lot of border and he has got a lot of ports of entry, I want to thank him for his leadership on this bill. I also want to thank Beto O'Rourke, my friend from El Paso, who also understands, just like Mr. Hurd does, the importance of trade. I thank our Senate sponsor, Senator Cornyn, who has done a great job on this particular bill. The Cross-Border Trade Enhancement Act of 2016 is a bill that builds upon the work that Chairman John Carter and myself added in the appropriations bill back in 2013 and 2014 to ease the delays and improve the infrastructure at our Nation's land and sea and air ports of entry. As has been said, trade and travel to the U.S. has been increasing for the last 10 years. In fiscal year 2015, our Nation saw 382 million travelers processed at the Nation's 328 land, sea, and air ports of entry. In particular I want to emphasize the land ports of entry. Over 80 percent of all of the people who come into the United States, all of the goods that come into the United States, come in through land ports of entry, and that is why this bill is very important. As was mentioned a few minutes ago, $2.4 trillion of trade was processed at our ports of entry. And just as an example--and I know Mr. Hurd mentioned it; I know Mr. O'Rourke is going to mention it--in my port of entry, Laredo, for example, it is a small town of 250,000, but it handles 14,000 trailers a day of trade between the U.S. and Mexico. If you look at the largest customs districts, you have L.A., New York, and then you have Laredo. So this bill is very important to Laredo and the rest of the border itself. Despite this growing trade that we have at our ports of entry, CBP staffing levels have been stagnant. Back in 2014, the Appropriations Committee and Congress authorized over $255 million to increase the CBP workforce, which includes hiring 2,000 new CBP officers. However, they have been struggling to hire those 2,000 CBP officers due to attrition, but also due to the long time that it takes to hire those new officers. The other part that is important is, if you look at the land ports of entry, for example, there are a lot of challenges--and I am talking about the southern and the northern ports of entry that we have. In fact, it would cost us about $5 billion in capital improvements to make sure that we do this work. What are we doing in Congress? Well, we are adding about $146 million a year to meet this $5 billion that we need. So at this rate of $146 million a year, it would take 34 years to meet that $5 billion that we need. Therefore, the Federal Government is not going to add those appropriations. I understand money is tight. We need to bring in the local government and especially the private sector to make sure that we address the undersized facilities, the outmoded technologies that we have, the officer safety issues that we have, and the long wait times that we have, which I call parking lots, because a lot of times these trucks are waiting in the middle of the bridge. Therefore, on sections 559 and 560, what we did is we said we are going to bring the private sector in, and it has worked well in doing this. We have seen--and I think it has been mentioned, but I will mention it again. We entered into 29 of those stakeholder reimbursement service agreements, and we saw more additional processing hours to make sure that we moved 3 million additional travelers and almost 460,000 new vehicles. Again, this is going to help us. What does this bill do? This bill will help us expand that pilot program in many ways and authorize it for 10 years. This bill will limit the number of reimbursable service agreements that we have at the ports of entry, but, more importantly, it is going to allow us to hire CBP officers faster. I know the chairman knows this very well. Imagine if we have this. We have got to bring officers into the CBP faster, and this is what this bill will do. So again, I want to thank the House sponsors, Kevin Brady, Chairman Michael McCaul, Mr. Hurd, and Mr. O'Rourke, and, of course, on the Senate side, Senator Cornyn and Senator Klobuchar for making sure that we did it and that we are doing it in a bipartisan way. I ask that we pass this bill.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the life of Gold Star Mother and Laredoan Mrs. Francisca Martinez. Mrs. Martinez was born September 3, 1911, in Linares, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, to parents Jesus Jasso and Francisca Trevino Jasso. She immigrated to the United States when she was fourteen years old. Her family settled in Laredo, Texas, and she soon became a United States citizen. Mrs. Martinez later met Enrique Martinez who would become her husband in 1929. Francisca was a proud mother of eight children, Estanislado, Guadalupe, Petra, Maria Antonietta, Enrique, Jesus, Antonio, and Maria Aurora. Five of her sons served in the United States Army. Her oldest son, Estanislado Martinez, was wounded in the Korean War and her second eldest, Sgt. First Class Guadalupe Martinez, a Green Beret, was killed in action during the Vietnam War. It is because of her son's brave service and sacrifice that she became a member of the American Gold Star Mothers Organization. Francisca was affectionately called ``Panchita'' by those close to her, who remember her passion and commitment to serving the community. She instilled a sense of service and charity in all her children. Francisca spent her life caring for others, continuing to volunteer at the local food bank on a weekly basis even into her later years. Mrs. Martinez is survived by her sons, Jesus and Antonio Martinez; her daughters, Petra Hill and Maria Aurora Gutierrez; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and countless friends. Her legacy will live on in Laredo and she will be remembered for the countless lives that she touched in our community. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have the opportunity to recognize the life of Francisca ``Panchita'' Martinez.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the life of one of Laredo's finest teachers, Yolanda Urby Urrabazo. Mrs. Urrabazo was born on February 12, 1947 to Juan and Carolina Urby in Del Rio, Texas. She was considered a miracle baby due to being born ten years after her nine siblings. Although her first language was Spanish, she quickly learned English and excelled in her studies. She had straight A's throughout her grade school education and graduated in the top five percent of her class from Del Rio High School in 1965. She was one of the few Hispanics in the National Honor Society all four years and participated in many extracurricular activities. She received her bachelor's degree in Spanish Literature and a minor in English from Texas Woman's University and then a Master's degree in Spanish Literature from The University of Texas-El Paso in 1977. Many of her loved ones knew that her favorite novel was Don Quixote de la Mancha by Cervantes and she could quote Shakespeare eloquently and effortlessly. Her enthusiasm for literature and poetry was most evident to everyone she met. This eventually led her to a passionate and fulfilling teaching career of 32 years, recently retiring from United High School in June 2016. Yolanda's devotion to her students is shown by her long and passionate career in teaching where she prided herself in teaching in every decade since the 1960s. For decades, she dedicated her life to educating generations of students, including her own seven children. She also inspired two of her daughters, Elizabeth U. Velasquez and Veronica Urrabazo, to follow in her footsteps and become educators themselves. This commitment to education is an inspiration, and serves as reminder for how important educators are to our community. Her dedication to serving others will not be forgotten and will serve as a testament to what we should all strive for. Mrs. Urrabazo is survived by her beloved husband Ignacio Urrabazo and their seven children (Tom, Elizabeth, Jaime, Yolanda, Veronica, Alejandra, and Claudia) and six grandchildren, as well as her five siblings. Her legacy will live on in the countless people she helped shape--she was intelligent, humble, strong, and compassionate to all. The mentoring and guidance that she provided will be shown throughout the community she touched. I have personally seen her impact through the great work her daughters, Yolanda Urrabazo and Claudia Urrabazo, provided when they worked in my Congressional office. It was clear through their hard work and ability that their mother had taught them very well. She serves as reminder for how much one person can do to affect so many lives. Not only her family, but students, teachers, community members, and both the young and old, mourn her passing. Her legacy will live on through her good deeds and through our cherished memories. The city of Laredo will miss her and cherish the kindness and inspiration that she brought to our community and our education system. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have the opportunity to remember the legacy of Yolanda Urby Urrabazo.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the life of former Floresville Mayor Diana Garza. Mrs. Garza was born January 17th 1956 to parents Cipriano Villarreal and Florinda Tejada Villarreal in Floresville, Texas. She graduated from Floresville High School where she met her soon to be husband Casimiro ``Cassy'' Garza. Eventually, they moved to Laredo, Texas where she worked for the Laredo Morning Times and then Rodriguez Pharmacy. They ultimately moved back to Floresville where she felt the calling to serve. Diana was always dedicated to her community. She was a tireless worker and always considered the well-being of others before herself. Along with these qualities she always stood her ground and never wavered when trying to help those around her. These qualities led her to being elected to two terms as Floresville city's first female mayor and an active member of the local Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club, and church. It is the personal stories, however, that truly exemplify her character. If you were to ask those who knew her, you would surely hear how kind and warm she was. You would hear about her visits to the sick, the critical help she provided to Floresville after a terrible tornado, and the respect she always showed to those around her. I personally remember her hard work when we successfully obtained funding for the city's water treatment facilities. These were qualities that she was known for; everyday acts of kindness, appreciation, effort, and generosity. Diana is survived by her husband, Casimiro, and their three children. Her legacy lives on in the work she did for her city, local community, friends, and family. She will also be remembered for the countless lives that she had touched and as an example of how we should live our lives. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have the opportunity to recognize the life of Diana Garza.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the life of one of Laredo's finest teachers, Yolanda Urby Urrabazo. Mrs. Urrabazo was born on February 12th 1947 to Juan and Carolina Urby in Del Rio, Texas. She was considered a miracle baby due to being born ten years after her nine siblings. Although her first language was Spanish, she quickly learned English and excelled in her studies. She received her bachelor's degree from Texas Women's University and then a master's degree in Spanish literature from The University of Texas-El Paso. This enthusiasm for literature eventually led her to United High School in Laredo, Texas where she taught English literature for 32 years. Yolanda's devotion to her students is shown by her long and passionate career in teaching. For over three decades she dedicated her life to educating generations of students. This commitment to education is an inspiration, and serves as a reminder for how important educators are. Her dedication to serving others will not be forgotten and will serve as a testament to what we should all strive for. Mrs. Urrabazo is survived by her husband Ignacio, seven children, six grandchildren, and five siblings. Her legacy will live on in the countless people she helped shape. The mentoring and guidance that she provided will be shown throughout the community she touched. I have personally seen her impact through the great work her daughters Yolanda and Claudia provided when they worked in my office. It was clear through their hard work and ability that their mother had taught them very well. She serves as a reminder for how much one person can do to affect so many lives. The city of Laredo will miss her and cherish the kindness and care that she brought. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have the opportunity to remember the legacy of Yolanda Urby Urrabazo.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Linda Kazen Garza on her new position as President of the Advocates for the American Osteopathic Association; a national organization that supports and promotes the osteopathic profession through education, advocacy, and collaboration. Linda Kazen Garza was born on December 1, 1963 to Antonio and Josie Kazen in Laredo, Texas. While growing up in Laredo she was a member of the Blessed Sacrament Church youth choir and a participant in the Junior Miss Laredo Pageant. Interestingly enough, it was during her time in choir that she met a fellow guitarist named David Garza, who later became her husband. After graduating from Nixon High School she went on to the University of Texas at Austin where she received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Communications. Mrs. Garza's involvement with advocacy efforts within the osteopathic medical profession began during her husband's education at the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine (TCOM) in Fort Worth. She would even go on to serve as the Vice President for TCOM's chapter of the Student Advocates Association. Eventually, she would go on to serve in her husband's medical practice as an office administrator. She has been serving alongside her husband for over two decades. Linda's passion for the osteopathic medical field led her to become an active member of multiple advocacy groups. Her involvement includes: Treasurer and former President of the Advocates of the Texas Osteopathic Medical Association (ATOMA), Director at Large on the Board of Trustees and delegate to the Advocates for the American Osteopathic Association (AAOA), and she has been a member of several AAOA committees. Linda Kazen Garza currently resides in Laredo, Texas where she is married to Dr. David Garza and has two sons named Joseph and Nicholas. In addition to her exemplary career and advocacy efforts; she's been an active member of her local community where she was a trustee for the Laredo Center for the Arts and former President of the Laredo Business and Professional Women's Association. In her free time she enjoys hunting, fishing, traveling, and going to the beach. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have the opportunity to recognize Mrs. Linda Kazen Garza on her recent appointment and for her many years of service to the osteopathic community. It is pleasing to see this ninth generation Texan and Laredoan and niece of former Congressman Abraham Kazen doing great work for the community.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I want to say, first of all, that I rise in support of H.R. 5591, which designates the facility of the United States Postal Service in Zapata as the Zapata Veterans Post Office. I would like to thank Chairman Chaffetz and Ranking Member Cummings for their leadership and their support in this bill and, of course, the staff on both the majority and the minority. I especially want to thank also the chairman, the managing Member from Georgia (Mr. Jody B. Hice) for his kind words to the veterans in Zapata, and also my friend, the gentlewoman from the District of Columbia (Ms. Norton)--both of them for their leadership. I thank them so much for the work that they have done. Zapata County is home to 503 veterans, according to our U.S. Census. It is imperative that we honor the service and dedication of those veterans in Zapata to our Nation. Dedicating this post office in Zapata to the Zapata veterans will serve as a constant reminder of the sacrifice that our friends, our neighbors, and our families have made while serving our country. Today, I particularly want to acknowledge the sacrifice of those veterans in Zapata County. These are veterans who put country ahead of self for whom I am proud to recognize in dedicating the Zapata postal facility in their name. As an example of some of the heroic actions of some of the veterans of Zapata, let me mention the six Trevino brothers: Teodoro, Leopoldo, Antonio, Anselmo, Filberto, Jr., and Jose Manuel, who served honorably for a combined 15\1/2\ years in our armed services during World War II before they returned home to Zapata. Despite the many hardships that these brothers faced, six of them were able to overcome whatever obstacle was put before them. Among their many acts of bravery, they fearlessly took down enemy planes and protected fellow soldiers using their bodies as shields. Their courage and dedication to our Nation--those six brothers and the other veterans who we have in Zapata--demonstrate what it really means to be an American. They are, again, just an example of many of the veterans who have made countless sacrifices for their country in the face of danger. I also would like to thank the Veterans' Service Office in Zapata for their work in providing care to the veterans in Zapata. Again, they are only one of many local organizations. Again, using the words of President John F. Kennedy: ``As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.'' This bill allows us to show our appreciation and make sure that their service and the sacrifice to our country is not forgotten. So, again, I want to thank, Mr. Speaker, both the chairman and the ranking member, Ms. Norton and Mr. Jody B. Hice, and, of course, the staff that has worked so hard.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, Sergio Sanchez was born on October 9th, 1969 in McAllen, Texas to Samuel and Luisa Sosa Sanchez. At the age of 9, he moved from Reynosa, Mexico to Houston, Texas where he learned English and attended elementary school. Mr. Sanchez graduated from the South Houston High School in 1987 and went on to attend San Jacinto College where he entered the music and civilian airline pilot programs. In 1990, he moved to McAllen, Texas and enrolled in Pan American University. Mr. Sanchez began his broadcasting career as a part time news reader at News Talk 710 KURV in Edinburg, Texas while working full time nights at the McAllen Post Office. In 1997, he was hired full time at KURV as an anchor and reporter. He eventually became KURV news manager, running both the morning and evening news reports. Later on in his career, Mr. Sanchez created the KURV ``Drive Home Show,'' an evening talk show. In the spring of 1999, he entered radio advertising and successfully sold sports radio and KURV news radio while broadcasting the morning show. He then launched his own weekend talk show, ``Saturday Open Phones,'' in 2009. Mr. Sanchez currently serves as the KURV Program Director and host of the KURV Morning News, which he has hosted for 20 years. Throughout his 20 years of radio broadcasting, Sergio Sanchez has received more than 20 awards from the Texas Associated Press Broadcasters including Best News Anchor, Best Reporter, Best Investigative Report, and Best Editorial. Press associations in Dallas and Houston have also recognized him for his accomplishments as a broadcaster. Along with these accomplishments and awards he is a fundraiser for the Salvation Army's annual Angel Tree program. He has also been recognized as the top fundraiser in the Rio Grande Valley for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation of Texas. In addition to his impressive career as a celebrated radio broadcaster, Sergio Sanchez is a devoted husband to his wife, Delia, and father to their children, Noah and Elim. The family resides in McAllen, Texas. Mr. Sanchez also recently entered politics, becoming Chairman of the Hidalgo County Republican office in 2014. Additionally, he serves as Chairman-Elect of the board of the academically respected Idea Public Charter School System in Texas.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, Dr. Ray Marvin Keck III was born in San Antonio, Texas to Mr. Ray Keck and Mrs. Joyce Keck. Dr. Keck grew up in Cotulla, Texas but considers Laredo to be his hometown. He attended The Texas Military Academy and went on to earn an AB and a PhD in Romantic Languages and Literature from Princeton University. Beyond that, Dr. Keck studied at Harvard Divinity School, the National Autonomous University of Mexico, the Center of Hispanic Studies in Madrid, and the German Summer School. Dr. Keck began his teaching career at the Hotchkiss School in Connecticut in 1970. He then joined the Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) faculty in 1979, and went on to become a professor, department chair, provost and the university's longest-serving president. Under his leadership, TAMIU has doubled its enrollment and serves a higher percentage Hispanic population than any college or university in the country. Under his administration, the university has improved with the upgrade of the Lamar Bruni Vergara Planetarium, the creation of the Senator Judith Zaffirini Student Success Center, and the creation of the Texas Academy of International STEM Studies. During Dr. Keck's tenure as TAMIU president, the university has been consistently recognized in rankings by Washington Monthly Money Magazine, and The Economist for providing a high value education for its students. Dr. Keck has received many awards and honors recognizing his advocacy of higher education, promotion of art and culture, study of the riches of the Spanish language, and his devotion to advancing his hometown, Laredo. In May 2016, Dr. Keck was named the interim president at the Texas A&M University-Commerce. Dr. Ray Keck is a devoted husband to his wife, Patricia Cigarroa Keck and father of three daughters Teresa, Joyce, and Lacey, who is no longer with us. He is a proud grandfather of Adam and Laila. Dr. Keck is also an accomplished organist, having performed as a guest artist with the Laredo Philharmonic Orchestra and others around the nation. He is the author of Love's Dialectic: Mimesis and Allegory in the Romances of Lope de Vega and supports the need for a comprehensive, dual- language program for all students in Texas schools.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, this July marks the 100-year anniversary of the Farm Credit System, and I rise today to commend the cooperative owners and employees for their continuing service and support in meeting the financial needs of rural communities and agricultural producers in the 28th District of Texas and across the country. I was pleased to cosponsor House Resolution 591, introduced by House Agriculture Committee Chairman Mike Conaway and Ranking Member Collin Peterson as well as the Chairman and Ranking Member of the Subcommittee for Commodity Exchanges, Energy & Credit, Chairman Austin Scott and Ranking Member David Scott, and join my colleagues in celebrating the Farm Credit System for its 100 years of service. Congress established the Farm Credit System through the Federal Farm Loan Act of 1916, which was signed into law on July 17, 1916 by President Woodrow Wilson. The Farm Credit System is comprised of independently owned cooperatives that are controlled by their borrowers. Each cooperative is therefore responsive to its borrowers' individual credit requirements and can continually adapt to the changing needs of our rural communities and agricultural producers. Today, the Farm Credit System plays a vital role in the success of our country's agricultural sector, and the vibrancy of rural communities throughout the country. The Farm Credit System provides more than $237 billion in loans to more than 500,000 customers nationwide. In the state of Texas specifically, Farm Credit has issued over 47,000 loans, providing $9.5 billion in credit to farmers and other agricultural borrowers. 1,443 of those loans were made to people in the 28th District of Texas, totaling over $593 million in loans. In 2013, Farm Credit returned nearly $258 million to its borrowers in the state of Texas alone. Farm Credit actively supports the next generation of agricultural producers by providing billions of dollars of funding to emerging farmers and producers, and providing financial support for organizations like 4-11 and Future Farmers of America. Additionally, Farm Credit finances reliable energy sources for farms and rural towns, clean water systems, and modern telecommunications systems that connect rural America with the rest of the world. By financing these vital infrastructure projects, Farm Credit supports the agricultural and rural communities in my congressional district and across the country. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize the Farm Credit System on the occasion of its centennial and extend my appreciation to the cooperative owners and employees for their commitment to providing innovative financial services to the people of the 28th District of Texas and to the nation as a whole.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the retirement of Bruce Pearson, who has been City Manager of Pleasanton, Texas since 2012. Mr. Pearson was born and raised in Waco, Texas where he attended Richfield High School. He later graduated Summa Cum Laude from Texas State University-San Marcos and received a Master's Degree from the University of Texas at San Antonio in Public Administration where he was a Recognized Scholar. Mr. Pearson also holds a Certified Public Manager's Certification from the William P Hobby Center for Public Service at Texas State University. In 2000, Mr. Pearson began working for the San Antonio Water System, where he was involved in the implementation of a revolutionary water recycling system that provides over 35,000 acre feet of water for non- potable uses throughout San Antonio. The water recycling program remains the largest in the country to date. The Water Reuse Foundation recognized Mr. Pearson for his contributions to water conservation efforts in 2005. Additionally, Mr. Pearson advised on the design of a customer service and site certification manual for the Water Reuse Foundation, and worked on the Cibolo Canyons Professional Golfers' Association Project for the San Antonio Water System. Mr. Pearson began his career in public service in 2008 when he was named Assistant City Manager for the City of Cibolo. As Assistant City Manager, he oversaw the implementation of a capital improvement project that allowed the city to build a new police and fire Station, a public park, and to reconstruct the city's Main Street. In 2012, Mr. Pearson was named City Manager for the City of Pleasanton; a position through which he contributed to the city's growth, development, and prosperity. He oversaw the development and implementation of a multifaceted city master plan, a parks master plan, and contributed to the design and construction of a civic center, library, and the Freedom Center Project. Mr. Pearson has done an extraordinary job of bringing a vision of long term progress in every community he has worked in. In addition to his impressive career in public service and municipal development, Mr. Pearson is a devoted father and grandfather. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize Bruce Pearson for his extensive achievements and important contributions to the communities of Cibolo and Pleasanton, Texas.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the retirement of Abraham Saenz, Jr., Council Member for the City of Pleasanton, Texas. He has proudly served the people of Pleasanton for 33 years. Mr. Saenz was born on June 27, 1931 in Lytle, Texas to Mr. Abraham Saenz, Sr. and Ms. Aurora Saenz. Mr. Saenz moved to Pleasanton, Texas in 1935 and attended Pleasanton High School. He joined the United States Air Force in 1952 and served in the Air Force Supply Unit until 1956. While in the Air Force, Mr. Saenz courageously served his country and fought in the Korean War. Following his years of service, Mr. Saenz returned to Pleasanton and opened a barber shop, which he owned and operated until 2014. During this time, Mr. Saenz was also a devoted community member. He was Scout Master for the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 194, a member of the Pleasanton Lion's Club, and a member of the Atascosa County Economic Development Board. Mr. Saenz's involvement in government began in the early 1980's when he assisted Mr. Daniel Struve in his successful campaign for Texas State Representative. Mr. Saenz then pursued his own career in public service and was elected City Alderman for the city of Pleasanton on April 3, 1982. In 1984, the people of Pleasanton elected Mr. Saenz to serve as a member of the Pleasanton City Council, a position which he has proudly held for 33 years. During his tenure on the City Council, Mr. Saenz accomplished several important community developments, including the construction of a new public works and police department building, the remodeling of the Pleasanton City Hall, the building of the Pleasanton Sports Complex, additions to the Pleasanton River Park, and construction of the Civic Center and Library. In addition to his exemplary career as an esteemed public servant, Abraham Saenz is a devoted husband to his wife, Ermelinda, and father to their four children. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have the opportunity to celebrate the successful career of Abraham Saenz, a patriotic American citizen, devoted city council member to Pleasanton, and a loving husband and father.