Henry Cuellar

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the accomplishments of J. Jorge Verduzco of Laredo, Texas. Jorge Verduzco's extraordinary career has been characterized by global citizenship and community service. Before beginning his career, Mr. Verduzco earned a Bachelor's in International Relations from St. Mary's University, a Master's degree in Latin American Studies from Georgetown University, a second Master's from the American Graduate School on International Management, and he completed graduate programs in Bank Marketing and Commercial Lending. Jorge Verduzco worked in the Latin American and Administrative Bureaus of the U.S. Department of State for several years prior to joining the International Bank of Commerce in Laredo in 1981. With IBC, Mr. Verduzco has served admirably for over two decades. In addition, his economic development efforts along the Texas-Mexico border have been outstanding, serving as Chairman of the Texas-Mexico Authority Advisory Board, a member of the Policy Board of the Texas Department of Commerce, a founding member of the Border Trade Alliance and the Association of South Texas Communities, a founding Board Member of the Alliance for I-69 Texas, and a Board Member of the Texas Association of Business and Chambers of Commerce. His service exemplifies a shining example of humility and dedication. In addition to his exemplary career, Jorge Verduzco is a committed husband of forty five years, father, grandfather, and author of ``International Relations, The Organization of American States.'' Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have the opportunity to recognize J. Jorge Verduzco for his many accomplishments and great contributions to the Laredo area. I thank you for this time.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the exceptional career of Judge Stella Hartman Saxon of Karnes City, Texas. Judge Saxon was born in 1948 in El Paso, Texas, to parents Pete and Helen Hartman. The eldest of six children, she graduated from the University of Texas with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Government, and subsequently earned her law degree from the University of Houston. Prior to becoming the 218th Judicial District Judge, Stella Hartman Saxon worked as an Assistant District Attorney. During that time, she was selected as the Aerl Jernigan Law Enforcement Officer of the Year for her successful prosecution of cases from a large undercover operation. Judge Saxon was first elected as District Judge in 1990, and has served admirably for over two decades, boldly advocating for the citizens and employees of Atascosa, Frio, Karnes, LaSalle and Wilson Counties. Throughout her career, she has been a shining example of kindness and fairness and an ever-present role model to those around her. In addition to her exemplary career, Judge Saxon is a committed wife, mother, grandmother, Girl Scout leader, and breast cancer survivor. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have the opportunity to recognize Judge Stella Hartman Saxon. Her dedication to the citizens of Texas has truly made her community a better place to live and work.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the accomplishments of Roberto Galvez Junior of Laredo, Texas. Mr. Galvez was born in 1971 in Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas to parents Roberto Galvez Martinez and Gloria Irma Alcala de Galvez. As the eldest of three brothers, Mr. Galvez studied in Mexico up until high school. For decades, Mr. Galvez has been involved in broadcasting for both Mexico and the United States in radio and television. He began his career as a sports correspondent in 1990, and then became a sports broadcaster for KLDO Univision Laredo in 1998. From 2008 to 2010, Mr. Galvez became editorial director for the popular magazine ``Mas Accion,'' where he emphasized the importance of athletics in Laredo and the surrounding region. Since 2010, Mr. Galvez has worked as Sports Director and Anchor for Telemundo Laredo Channel 25. Motivated by a desire to give back to his community, he has collected toys for underprivileged children during the holidays for the past four years. Mr. Roberto Galvez has been honored with the ``Best Sports Anchor'' national award from the Mexican Federation of Sports Newscasters for his important work in sports journalism. Additionally, he has been named the best sports reporter in the Mexican state of Tamaulipas by this organization and will receive the award in a ceremony in Torreon, Coahuila in February, 2015. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have the opportunity to recognize Roberto Galvez Junior for his many accomplishments and great contributions to the Laredo area. I thank you for this time.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Poth High School Women's Volleyball Team for their ninth state championship win under the leadership of Coach Patti Zenner. On Saturday, November 22nd, the Poth Pirettes emerged victorious over Brock High School during the UIL Class 3A State Final. This was a defining match for the Pirettes, marking their fourteenth appearance at the state tournament and ninth state championship win. With this recent victory, the Poth Pirettes are now tied for the second most championship wins in state history. Pirettes Volleyball Senior Alyssa Kruse was awarded Most Valuable Player of the championship. Mr. Speaker, this is a momentous occasion for Poth High School and I am honored to have the opportunity to recognize the Pirettes Women's Volleyball Team for its record-setting victory. I thank you for this time.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the annual Cowboy Christmas Cook-Off which takes place each December, in Mission, Texas. The Cowboy Christmas Cook-Off is an International Barbeque Cookers Association state championship event; the occasion features a festive combination of good music and good eating, with proceeds benefiting the Silver Ribbon Community Partners, who provide emergency relief assistance and educational programs for seniors and individuals with disabilities. Talented barbeque chefs from Texas face off to see who can cook up the tastiest brisket, pork spareribs, and chicken. The Cowboy Christmas Cook-Off is an exciting time for young and old alike and is a much- anticipated gathering for residents of South Texas. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize this celebration of Lone Star-style food and music and I thank you for this time.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the exceptional career of Atascosa County Judge Diana Bautista. Judge Bautista has served the people of South Texas since she was elected in 2002. Prior to becoming County Judge, Diana Bautista worked for the county as a clerk, as a Secretary for the jail Administrator, and then became a Pleasanton police officer and Atascosa County Sheriffs Deputy. During her time with public service offices such as these, Judge Bautista learned how she could best serve the people of Atascosa County. Taking her oath in 2003, Judge Bautista has served admirably for over a decade, boldly advocating for the citizens and employees of the county. In addition to her exemplary career, Judge Bautista is a committed wife and mother and a cancer survivor. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have the opportunity to recognize Judge Diana Bautista. Her dedication to the citizens of Atascosa County has truly made her community a better place to live and work.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the exceptional career of Wilson County Judge Marvin Quinney. As a veteran of our nation's armed services, a dedicated officer of the State of Texas, and as a man of God, Judge Quinney has and continues to faithfully serve the people of his county to the best of his ability. Marvin Quinney's lifetime of public service began in 1965 when he joined the United States Army to assist military efforts in Vietnam. After two years in the Army, future Judge Quinney spent a year working in a Texas oilfield--a period he cites for shaping his strong work ethic. He returned to public service in 1968 as a Texas Department of Public Safety Trooper from 1968 until 1995. He later served as a Federal Court Security Officer in San Antonio for three years. It was after this period that Judge Quinney announced his bid for the office of Wilson County Judge, promising to serve the County with responsibility, integrity, and confidence. Since his election in 1998, Judge Quinney has stayed true to his word. Among his many achievements in office are the protection of Wilson County's water rights, the continuation of low tax rates and the organization of a successful Sesquicentennial celebration. Currently, he is focused on overseeing the restoration of Wilson County's beautiful, historic Courthouse. When he retires on December 31, 2014, Judge Quinney will have served four terms in office and will leave an honorable legacy in his stead. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have the opportunity to recognize Judge Marvin Quinney. His dedication to his nation, the state of Texas, and especially to the citizens of Wilson County is truly admirable.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the career of Constable Martin Rodriguez. Constable Rodriguez has faithfully served the people of South Texas in many capacities, and he honorably served his country in the Navy during the Vietnam War. Martiniano Rodriguez was born in San Antonio, Texas on December 8, 1944. The second of eight children, Martin graduated from C.W. Fox High School in 1965. Upon graduating from high school, Martin joined the Navy and served two tours of duty in the waters of Vietnam. After completing his Navy service, Martin started work at Kelly Air Force base, where he worked in the civil service for 18 years. He concurrently took classes at San Antonio College and graduated in 1977. In 1985, Martin decided to change careers, and began work at the Bexar County Constable's Department as an investigator. In 1993, Martin began working for the Wilson County Sheriff's Department and retired in 2006. Then in 2009, Martin ran for the office of Wilson County Constable, and has served in this role to this day. In addition to a lifelong career of service to his country and his community, Constable Rodriguez will celebrate his 50th anniversary with his wife Belinda this coming January. Together, they have four children, ten grandchildren, and two great grandchildren. Further, Constable Rodriguez has been a member and Officer of the Board of both the San Antonio and Wilson County Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), served as a life member of the Wilson County Housing Foundation, and served as a member of the Knights of Columbus of Wilson County. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have the opportunity to recognize Constable Martin Rodriguez for a lifetime of service to his family, his community, and his country.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate a momentous occasion--the 120 years of service the Sisters of Mercy have graciously provided the City of Laredo, Texas. For over a century, these Sisters have faithfully contributed to the health and well-being of the residents within my hometown. Three Sisters arrived in Laredo in 1894 with the mission of building the city's first hospital. They came from Dublin, Ireland, and less than one month after their arrival, they accomplished their goal and opened a medical facility with six rooms and twelve beds. Though they were not formally trained in nursing, they committed to learning in order to serve the needy of Laredo. As the population and health care needs grew, Sisters of Mercy expanded to new buildings to care for as many Laredoans as possible. Over the last 120 years, nearly 120 Sisters have faithfully served in Laredo, many of whom served for decades at a time. There are presently five sisters who serve the Laredo community: Sister Maria Luisa Vera, who recently celebrated her 50th jubilee and is President of Mercy Ministries; Sister Rosemary Welsh, who has served Laredo for 22 years and is the Executive Director at Casa de Misericordia and the Director of Outreach Services at Mercy Clinic; Sister Olivia Obregon, who has served for a total of 33 years in various nursing supervisory positions; Sister Kathleen Tinnel, who has served Laredo for 12 years both as a pediatric nurse and a minister; and the newest Sister--Sister Beth Yoest--who is on the faculty at St. Peter Memorial School. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have the opportunity to recognize the Sisters of Mercy for commendably caring for the citizens of Laredo throughout the past 120 years.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the contributions of the late David C. Leyendecker of Laredo, Texas--a well-known citizen and a champion of education, veterans, and his community. Mr. Leyendecker truly embodied the virtue of service in his everyday life. His dedication to his community is evident from the multitude of organizations in which he both led and participated. Mr. Leyendecker served as the Rotary District governor, the president of the Laredo Chamber of Commerce, and a member of the Border Olympics of Laredo. He also was the past president of the Blessed Sacrament School Board, and remained an active member until his passing. Mr. Leyendecker served as a commander of the Laredo Marine Corp League 895, and also was the first chapter president of the Korean War Veterans Association 1950 Chapter 209. His unrelenting dedication to education and the military is a testament to his memory and a shining example to us all. Mr. Leyendecker is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Nancy Knight Leyendecker; children, Nancy Goodman and her husband Andre; Patricia Martinez and her husband David; grandchildren, David Ford Goodman, Andre ``Trey'' Goodman and his wife Victoria, David Martinez, Jr., Jennifer Martinez and Teresa Martinez; and great granddaughter Kennedy Elizabeth Goodman. He is further survived by numerous nieces, nephews, other loved relatives and friends. His family and friends will cherish the values and faith that Mr. Leyendecker instilled in them, and will greatly miss his presence. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have had the opportunity to recognize the late David C. Leyendecker. His hard work and spirit have truly impacted many lives and our community. I thank you for this time.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Officer Fernando Sanchez for his 40 years of dedicated service to law enforcement and for his commitment to Webb County and the state of Texas. Officer Sanchez is a remarkable and highly respected citizen who has dedicated his career to the safety of his community. First serving in 1974, Officer Sanchez worked as a detention officer for Webb County. He then attended Laredo Jr. College, where he worked diligently toward his Basic Texas Peace Officer's Certification which he received in the fall of 1975. It was then that Officer Sanchez was transferred to the Civil Division, where he began his service as a Bailiff of the first County Court at Law under Judge Antonio Zardenetta. When Judge Zardenetta was elected to the 111th Judicial District Court, Officer Sanchez was appointed as the bailiff of the court from 1979 to 1982. In 1982, he relocated to Victoria, Texas, where he served as a Sergeant in the Sheriff's Department before returning to Laredo to continue his service to the 111th Judicial District Court as a Bailiff. After serving as the Bailiff for the 111th Court for a combined fourteen years, Officer Sanchez worked as an investigator for the Webb County Attorney's Office from 1997 to 2004. In 2005 he was appointed as Chief Deputy for the Webb County Sheriff's Department, and within the same year was promoted to Senior Lieutenant until 2008. In August of 2009, Officer Sanchez was hired as a criminal investigator for the Webb County Public Defender's Office. He was then appointed the Bailiff and Interpreter for the 406th Judicial District Court under Judge Oscar J. Hale, Jr. from August of 2010 until his retirement in August of this year. Mr. Speaker, I am honored and pleased to have had this time to recognize Officer Fernando Sanchez not only on his career, but on his loyal service to his community. His willingness to work in various roles where he is most needed is admirable, and has helped to create a better Laredo and Webb County. I thank you for your time.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate a momentous occasion--the 120 years of service the Sisters of Mercy have graciously provided the City of Laredo, Texas. For over a century, these Sisters have faithfully contributed to the health and wellbeing of the residents within my hometown. Three Sisters arrived in Laredo in 1894 with the mission of building the city's first hospital. They came from Dublin, Ireland, and less than one month after their arrival, they accomplished their goal and opened a medical facility with six rooms and twelve beds. Though they were not formally trained in nursing, they committed to learning in order to serve the needy of Laredo. As the population and health care needs grew, Sisters of Mercy expanded to new buildings to care for as many Laredoans as possible. Over the last 120 years, nearly 120 Sisters have faithfully served in Laredo, many of whom served for decades at a time. There are presently five sisters who serve the Laredo community: Sister Maria Luisa Vera, who recently celebrated her 50th jubilee and is President of Mercy Ministries; Sister Rosemary Welsh, who has served Laredo for 22 years and is the Executive Director at Casa de Misericordia and the Director of Outreach Services at Mercy Clinic; Sister Olivia Obregon, who has served for a total of 33 years in various nursing supervisory positions; Sister Kathleen Tinnel, who has served Laredo for 12 years both as a pediatric nurse and a minister; and the newest Sister--Sister Beth Yoest--who is on the faculty at St. Peter Memorial School. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have the opportunity to recognize the Sisters of Mercy for commendably caring for the citizens of Laredo throughout the past 120 years. I thank you for this time.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. I thank Ranking Member Lowey for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of passing this legislation before us. First, I want to thank Chairman Rogers, and I certainly want to thank the ranking member, Mrs. Lowey, for working together to produce this continuing resolution. This continuing resolution will maintain vital funding for the Federal agencies that provide services to taxpayers. Congress has two major responsibilities, which are to pass a budget and to pay our bills on time. This bill would ensure that, while the House and the Senate will pass these appropriations bills probably in the form of an omnibus bill at the end of the year, we need to pass this CR. Additionally, this CR will contain much-needed funds to respond to the Ebola outbreak, to the reauthorization authority for the Export-Import Bank, and to provide the administration funding flexibility to deal with unaccompanied minors at the border. Tomorrow, we will also have an amendment to help fight the ISIS threat, and we must stand together with our President to fight that threat. I know it is a complicated situation, but doing nothing is certainly not an option. Last year, our failure to uphold the basic responsibilities of Congress resulted in a government shutdown, and we must not let that happen again. We do need the CR, but we must get back to regular order--pass full appropriations bills, go to conference, and get our job done. I think, if we are able to do that, we will be able to make sure that we do the hard job that we were sent up here to do. We were not sent up here to make the easy decisions. These are difficult decisions, but this is the responsibility of Congress. Again, I do want to thank the chairman, and I do want to thank the ranking member. I stand in support of the CR and of the amendment that will be coming in tomorrow to fight the threat that we see with ISIS.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Gary Job Corps Center for 50 years of providing successful service to the people of San Marcos, Texas. Located on a campus of 1,000 acres at the former Gary Army Air Field, Gary Job Corps is the largest of 125 Job Corps campuses nationwide, enrolling a growing number of nearly 2,000 young men and women. The increasing number of enrollment at Gary Job Corps represents the fulfillment of President Johnson's 1964 promise he made while visiting the former Southwest Texas State University. President Johnson's promise was to develop a Job Corps camp to train young men and women in the skills that would allow them to contribute to their community and become leaders. For 50 years, Gary Job Corps has continuously helped young men and women achieve their academic and professional dreams. In addition to providing vocational training for careers in health occupations, business, computers, cooking, driver's education, and numerous other industries, their alumni have continued their education to the student bodies of Texas State University, Alamo Community College, and other institutions of higher education. Gary Job Corps has helped countless young Texans achieve their life goals, has helped bring economic growth, educational achievement, and the promise of a better future to Central Texas. I am happy to have this opportunity to congratulate Gary Job Corps on the occasion of its 50th anniversary, and I wish all of its staff and students many more years of success.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. I thank the Chairman. Madam Speaker, we are sent here to Washington not to address the easy problems, but to address the difficult problems that this Nation is facing. When President John F. Kennedy was faced with a very difficult crisis, he said: I am not looking for a Republican answer or for a Democratic answer. I am looking for the right answer. I think today, in a bipartisan way, we need to look for that right answer. I urge ``yes'' on this supplemental appropriation bill.

Mr. CUELLAR. Madam Speaker, I support full comprehensive immigration reform, but today's vote on this supplemental appropriation bill is to provide funding to ICE, Border Patrol, and other agencies to deal with the humanitarian crisis on the border, an area that I represent, an area where I live, an area where 42,000 out of the 58,000 unaccompanied kids have crossed. The policy change in this bill is to get rid of a loophole in the 2008 law that the smugglers in Central America and Mexico have taken advantage of. All due process and legal protections are left intact under this proposed bill. You will see under a CRS report that compares the current law to today's bill, you will see that the same due process and the same legal protections are left intact. In fact, I respectfully ask my colleagues in opposition to show me specifically where there is due process and legal protection that is taken away out of the bill. I yet have heard where it does this. Madam Speaker, I have also asked my colleagues in opposition respectfully to sit down with me and offer their alternative solution or their legislative proposal to this border crisis and have yet to hear those solutions. In this appropriation bill, we have to provide the funding to the Federal agencies to provide an early border, but we can no longer afford to play defense on the 1-yard line called the U.S.-Mexico border. We need to play defense on the 20-yard line, and this is why working with the Central American countries and working with Mexico to address the core issues and to fix and to fight these smugglers is vital. I want to thank the men and women on the border that have defended our homeland, and I want to thank the border communities, the churches, and the nonprofits that have done so much to help these folks at the border. In fact, I want to thank the chairman for allowing a provision for the border communities to seek reimbursement for the allowable expenses under this bill. We cannot leave Washington today without putting the resources and the policy change to address the border crisis. We are sent here to address not the easy problems, but to address the hard problems.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the contributions of the late Master Chief Petty Officer Francis L. Wawroski, Jr., U.S. Navy Ret. of Laredo, Texas--a well-known veteran, educator, and philanthropist. Master Chief Wawroski was a graduate of Southwest Texas State University. After graduating Master Chief Wawroski served a tour of duty in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. After being honorably discharged from the U.S. Army, Master Chief Wawroski enlisted in the U.S. Naval reserve, where he continued to serve for 32 years including service during Operation Desert Storm. Master Chief Wawroski was also a long-term educator; he retired after 33 years of service with the Laredo Independent School District. Master Chief Wawroski was an honorable teacher, administrator and mentor to both colleagues and students. Civic involvements were also considered high priority to Master Chief Wawroski. These civic involvements included various community organizations, most recently with the Laredo Veteran's Coalition. Master Chief Wawroski is survived by his wife of 41 years, Francisca Gamboa Wawroski; their loving children Judith Wawroski-Addison, Valerie Wawroski-Rodriguez, and Dr. Patricia Wawroski-Mendoza; and his first granddaughter Olivia Marie Rodriguez. Master Chief Wawroski is also survived by his brother, MSG John W. Wawroski, U.S. Army Ret.; sister, Sandra M. Wawroski; and a foster brother, Eugene Perales. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have had the opportunity to recognize the late Master Chief Petty Officer Francis L. Wawroski, Jr., U.S. Navy Ret. for his hard work and generosity that has truly impacted many lives and our community.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the contributions of the late Chad Clark of Floresville, Texas--a well-known and respected law enforcement officer. Mr. Clark's story was truly one of hard work and dedication, having climbed his way from the position of nonpaid reserve officer all the way to lieutenant. The nearly 22 years of service Chad Clark gave to the Floresville Police Department is the second-longest stint in the department's history. In 1989, while Mr. Clark was working in a local convenience store, he struck up a friendship with a Floresville PD officer. This new friendship sparked Chad's interest in a career in law enforcement and he soon enrolled in police academy in San Antonio. After working in the Poteet Police Department for two years, Chad Clark returned to Floresville to begin his more than 20 year term of service in the Floresville Police Department. Five years into his career, he was promoted to corporal. In 2001, while working as the day-shift supervisor, Mr. Clark was promoted to detective, where he investigated a wide variety of crimes. In 2012, Chad Clark reached the level of lieutenant within the Floresville Police Department. That same year, he was elected as the Wilson County Precinct 2 constable. He served admirably in both capacities and will be missed dearly by all that had the pleasure of knowing him. Described by those he worked with, Mr. Clark was a kind-hearted, generous man who came into work with a positive outlook that was infectious. Aside from his exemplary career in law enforcement, Chad Clark had served on the boards for the Wilson County Friends of the Library as well as the Floresville Independent School District. Mr. Clark is survived by his two daughters, 21-year-old Kayla and 17-year-old Marah. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have had the opportunity to recognize the late Chad Clark. His hard work and positive attitude have truly impacted many lives and our community.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I first want to thank my good friend, the chairman, for the great work that he and his staff have been doing, and certainly the ranking member and his staff, who have worked so hard, along with the Members, to get this piece of legislation. I have always said, as my fellow colleagues have said, that when one of our men and women go out and fight on a foreign battlefield, they should not come back and fight the bureaucracy of the VA. This is why this legislation is very, very important, that we address some of the issues. As one of the original cosponsors, I think providing an alternative with this emergency bill, H.R. 4810, which is at the top of an emergency, will provide an alternative to those veterans. I represent part of San Antonio, go through a lot of rural areas, go down to Laredo, then go through a lot of rural areas, and then go into the McAllen area, the Valley area. In that area, I think this legislation will be very, very useful in the sense that if somebody has to wait or somebody lives more than 40 miles away from the VA facility, then they should be able to go to one of the local providers in their home area to get that assistance. I think this will save the veterans a lot of trouble, time, and provide them care in their home area. I believe also when they are provided services at a non-VA facility where they can be reimbursed at the rate of the VA, TRICARE, Medicare, whatever is greater, that is, again, another good alternative. The only thing I would caution my friends on is, let's be careful, because I have been pushing the alternative to work with the local providers, and there has been a problem with the VA where they don't provide the reimbursement to those providers on a timely basis, and we have got to make sure that we provide the oversight that if a provider comes in, a private provider, that they are reimbursed and paid promptly. Otherwise we are going to lose those providers. Again, I certainly want to thank the chairman for the great work that he has been doing, the ranking member, the staff, and the other Members. This is a good piece of legislation, a good step forward, and I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 4810.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 96th anniversary of Republic Day in Azerbaijan on May 28. Azerbaijan is a secular, modern, Muslim country, which practices broad religious tolerance. Established in May 28, 1918, the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic was the first republic in any majority-Muslim country. In 1920 Russia occupied Azerbaijan and several Azeris lost their lives fighting for their independence. After years of living under Soviet rule, Azerbaijan reclaimed its independence in 1991 following the collapse of the Soviet Union. Over the last twenty-three years, the Republic of Azerbaijan has strengthened its sovereignty and independence, and has developed into one of the fastest growing economies in the region. Azerbaijan is also a staunch ally and strategic partner of the United States in the decisively important Caspian region. As a valuable international ally, Azerbaijan provided aid to the United States directly following the devastating events of 9/11, assisting the United States on matters of international security. Azerbaijan resides in one of the world's most dangerous neighborhoods, with Russia to the north and Iran to the south; however, the U.S. and Azerbaijan have developed a steadfast relationship through the opening of Caspian energy sources for development. Making significant contributions to the energy security of Europe, Turkey, and Israel, Azerbaijan has materialized as a fundamental player in global energy security. Again, it is my pleasure to honor the Republic of Azerbaijan on the occasion of the 96th anniversary of the Republic Day, and to distinguish the many achievements of Azerbaijan along with the remarkably valuable partnership between the United States and Azerbaijan.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Thank you for yielding to me. I certainly want to thank my friend, Mike McCaul, as both of us have been working with Senator Harkin on this, and it is a very important bill. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the contributions of the World War II members of the Civil Air Patrol, CAP. Today, we are considering S. 309, a bill to award CAP members a Congressional Gold Medal in honor of their service to our Nation during World War II. The Civil Air Patrol was comprised of more than 150,000 volunteers who banded together on December 1, 1941, to create a volunteer air patrol to defend our country. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, it became clear that the establishment of the air patrol was invaluable to the United States, and they were assigned to the War Department under the jurisdiction of the Army Air Corps. During World War II, the CAP logged more than 750,000 flying hours. The CAP aircrews flew in their own personal planes--and I emphasize in their own personal aircraft--in coastal patrols, performing reconnaissance and search and rescue missions. During this time, the CAP reported on 173 submarines sighted, summoned assistance for 91 ships and 363 survivors of submarine attacks in distress, and sank two enemy submarines. These CAP volunteer aircrews risked their lives to protect our freedoms, and 64 members of the Civil Air Patrol died while in service during World War II. On July 1, 1946, in recognition of their service, President Harry Truman signed Public Law 476, incorporating the Civil Air Patrol as a benevolent, nonprofit organization. Two years later, on May 26, Congress passed Public Law 557, permanently establishing the Civil Air Patrol as the auxiliary of the United States Air Force. Today, the Civil Air Patrol's primary missions include aerospace education, cadet programs, and emergency services. CAP volunteers continue to serve our Nation through disaster relief, search and rescue, humanitarian assistance, Air Force support, and counterdrug missions. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have had this time to recognize the Civil Air Patrol for their contributions and their service to our country during World War II. Again, Congressman Michael McCaul and I urge our colleagues to support S. 309. This Congressional Gold Medal recognition is long overdue, and it is well-deserved. I thank you for your consideration.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. I thank the gentleman for yielding. First of all, Mr. Chairman, I want to thank the chairman, my friend from Texas, John Culberson, and I certainly want to thank our ranking member, Mr. Bishop. These two gentlemen are true models of what bipartisanship is here in Congress. They have really done a great job to show the American public that when it comes to veterans and the military, this is not a Democratic or a Republican issue, but it is an issue that we all work together. So I certainly want to thank them. I want to thank them for the work that they have done, but in particular I want to thank both gentleman and the committee about an issue dealing with the backlogs that have existed at the VA for many years. Veterans of all generations deserve a benefit system that is easy to navigate and is responsive to their needs. As of April 26, 2014, the VA claims totaled more than 596,000. Of those, 319,000 have been pending for more than 125 days. This is something that has to be cleared. And this is something that Congress is working on. While Congress has done some work, more has to be done. We need to make sure that in this appropriations bill we not only provide the bureaucrats, with all due respect, with the money, but they have to be provided the oversight and the performance measures to make sure that, if they are given the money, they get to work and eliminate this backlog that has been affecting so many veterans in my district and across the State and the Nation. So I want to thank the members of the Appropriations Committee for supporting the VA's Veterans Benefit Management System so old claims that are filed on paper can now be converted to digital files to make then more accessible and more searchable. I also want to thank them for the money for VA employees' overtime so we can end the backlog by 2015. We have to get this job done. Finally, the last point that I want to make that is extremely important is to make sure that we get the VA and the Department of Defense to create one electronic health records system. Why is it that the Department of Defense has their own records, and once a veteran retires, the VA has a different record? We have to get them together so they can work together to make sure that we have the right paperwork filed and we speed up claims and the process between the VA and the Department of Defense, working together. So, in conclusion, these two gentlemen and the members have been a true model of bipartisanship. I think we need to salute them. If we look at the work that Mr. Bishop and Mr. Culberson have done here, this is the way we get our job done in Congress in a bipartisan way.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the retiring, Director of Foundation, Corporate, and Government Relation at University of the Incarnate Word, Robert Sosa. He has been Director of Foundation, Corporate, and Government Relations at OIW since 1992 and is ending his tenure after twenty two years. His tireless efforts have improved the community and served to better the development and progress for UIW. Robert Sosa was born in San Antonio, Texas. Sosa became the first person in his family to graduate from college, earning a Bachelor's and Master's degree in English from St. Mary's University. Prior to becoming the Director of Foundation, Corporate, and Government Relations he taught high school English for 7 years. Following his career as a teacher he worked at various marketing and advertising agencies before launching his own marketing and advertising company in the 1970s. In 1992 Sosa sold his business and returned to education when the president of the University of the Incarnate Word asked him to launch the university's grants operation. During his tenure at UIW Sosa has been responsible for attracting and managing the philanthropic interests of corporations, foundations, and the government. As Director, Sosa has dedicated his life to helping the university and community develop projects that serve low income residents and first- generation college students. Under his direction the Department of Foundation, Corporate, and Government Relations at UIW has raised $100 million dollars for scholarships, research, academic programs, construction, and healthcare services. Outside of his work as director Sosa has focused much of his time to teaching and community service. He taught English, Sociology, and Marketing at San Antonio College, UIW, and St. Phillips College. He has been a member of the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the Las Casas Foundation and Workforce Solutions Alamo. In addition, he has served as chairman of the board of the Guadalupe Cultural Arts center and has been a committee member of Leadership in San Antonio. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize Mr. Robert Sosa, retiring Director of Foundation, Corporate, and Government Relation at University of the Incarnate Word. His years of dedication and commitment to our community have truly impacted the quality of lives for the people of the city.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize retiring Councilman of Pleasanton, Texas, James Ben Magel. He has served the citizens of the city of Pleasanton well, and is now ending his tenure after 18 years. His tireless efforts have improved the community, and he has served to better the development and progress of Pleasanton. ``Jimmy'' Magel was born in Kenedy, Texas. Shortly after his birth, his family moved to Pleasanton. After graduating from Pleasanton High School in 1966, he attended the University of Texas at Austin, earning a degree in Pharmacy in 1971. He returned to Pleasanton and worked at Henry's Pharmacy. In 1974 he began working for Rexco Pharmacy, which he now owns. In 1970 he married Bernice Tieken. Together, they share two children and one grandchild. Currently, he serves as President of the Pleasanton Ex-Students Association and is a member of the St. John Lutheran Church Council in Jourdanton. One of his proudest achievements was earning the rank of Eagle Scout. A loving husband and father, Mr. Magel has been a devoted public servant and community leader. As Councilman, Mr. Magel has played an integral role in leading change within the Pleasanton community. Particularly, Mr. Magel paved the way for multiple construction projects, such as the construction of a public works facility, the new police department, the expansion of Pleasanton City Hall, a new civic center and library. He was also instrumental in the assembly of the Regional Water Waste Collection Line and various other infrastructure projects. Mr. Magel's commitment to the maintenance of public buildings and infrastructure has helped the city of Pleasanton continue to be a remarkable place to live and raise a family. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize Mr. James ``Jimmy'' Ben Magel, retiring Councilman of Pleasanton. His years of dedication and commitment to our community have truly impacted the quality of life for the people of the city.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Georgetown's 225th anniversary. Founded in 1789 by Bishop John Carroll of Maryland, Georgetown stands as the oldest Jesuit and Catholic University in the United States. For over 225 years Georgetown has educated young scholars of all ages and backgrounds, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to make a difference in the world. What began as a two story old brick building has now become one of the finest universities in the country and I celebrate the University's founding. Bishop Carroll, in his ``Proposals for Establishing an Academy at George-Town, Potowmack River, Maryland,'' envisioned an institution which gave ``undivided attention . . . to the cultivation of virtue, and literary improvement.'' On January 23rd, 1789 he received the first deed for the land that became the campus of Georgetown University. Then in 1815 President James Madison signed an Act of Congress granting a federal charter to ``The College of Georgetown in the District of Columbia.'' Only the U.S. Military Academy had received a federal charter prior to Georgetown. In 1850 the first Catholic Medical School was established and 20 years later Father Patrick Healy, who was born a slave, became the first African American president of a major American university. Much later in 1919 the university added the Walsh School of Foreign Service, of which I am a proud alumnus. For over two centuries Georgetown has grown and evolved along with the Nation; today, it is home to students from all fifty states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the Virgin Islands and the Northern Marianas as well as from 141 countries around the globe. At the university's Centennial Anniversary a speaker noted, ``It has taken a century to develop our country into a mighty nation and a united people. The same century has developed the college founded by John Carroll into a great and prosperous university, fully competent to hold her place among the universities of the world.'' This statement still holds true today and Georgetown stands as one of the most highly ranked educational institutions in the world. In recent years, research at Georgetown has led to important breakthroughs such as the development of a vaccine against the human papillomavirus, and efforts are being made to improve the Nation's capacity to identify and track the outbreak of diseases. The campus has been home to renowned faculty including the late U.N. Ambassador Jeanne Kirkpatrick and the late Carroll Quigley whom, Georgetown alum Bill Clinton quoted in his first inaugural address. Today, fifteen Members of the House of Representatives hold Georgetown degrees including our colleague the Honorable John Dingell, who holds two Georgetown degrees and is the longest serving Member of Congress in the Nation's history. It is a distinct privilege to serve in this body with esteemed colleagues who also studied at Georgetown. Mr. Speaker, I know they, in particular, share my pride in recognizing the 225th anniversary of the university's founding and look forward to a bright future for our alma mater.