Henry Cuellar

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the accomplishments and initiatives of Judge Marcia S. Weiner, Justice of the Peace Precinct 2 of San Antonio, TX. Judge Marcia Weiner first became a resident of San Antonio in 1956 when her husband, Dr. Bernard K. Weiner, was transferred to Lackland Air Force Base. Since then, Judge Weiner has become an attorney, teacher, active community leader, mother of three daughters, and a grandmother. Judge Weiner earned a BA degree and lifetime teacher's certificate with honors in 1965, followed by a Doctor of Jurisprudence in 1970 from St. Mary's University. In 1971, Judge Weiner began her legal career with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Judge Weiner continued to work for HUD for over 26 years and retired as Chief Counsel. While a Chief Counsel, Judge Weiner was responsible for all HUD program legal issues throughout a 57 county jurisdiction and was named the most outstanding HUD Chief Counsel in the country. In January of 2001, Judge Weiner became a Justice of Peace for Precinct 2 of San Antonio, TX. As Justice of Peace, she has continued to improve the Precinct 2, which oversees evictions, small claims, juvenile disorderly conduct cases, misdemeanors and truancy. Judge Weiner strongly believes that juveniles can be redirected through early intervention with the right kind of counseling. As an active volunteer and leader in the community, Judge Weiner continues to make significant contributions to the advancement of equal opportunity, the elevation of federal women's careers, and to the legal awareness of aging seniors and retired federal employees. Among her many honors and awards, Judge Weiner was recognized as ``Texas Women to Watch'' from 2002 to 2004 by the Business and Professional Women Foundation. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor today to recognize Judge Marcia Weiner for her dedication, commitment, and service to the betterment of society.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Superintendent of the San Antonio Independent School District, Dr. Ruben Olivarez, for his contributions to the local community. Dr. Ruben Olivarez has dedicated his career to educating our youth. In 1970, Dr. Olivarez started his career in education. Having taught at J.T. Brackenridge Elementary School, he is no stranger to the educational needs of our community. He has held a number of important educational posts over the years, including a professorship at the University of Texas at Austin, the title of Principal in the Fort Worth Independent School District, the post of Deputy Commissioner of the Texas Education Agency, and many others. On January 11, 2000, Dr. Ruben Olivarez was named Superintendent of the San Antonio Independent School District, which has a student population of approximately 57,000. He is currently responsible for the ``Vision 2005 and Beyond'' plan for educational improvement. Dr. Olivarez has helped to provide the guidance our schools need, keeping the needs of our students an important priority. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize the Superintendent of the San Antonio Independent School District, Dr. Ruben Olivarez, for his dedicated service to our local schools.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Mark T. Wilson, Mayor of Charlotte, Texas, for his dedicated service to his community. Mayor Wilson is one of Charlotte's proudest native sons. Born and raised in Charlotte, he graduated from Charlotte High School and attended TSTI in Waco, TX. While in school, he studied farming and ranching in preparation for a career as a rancher. Mr. Wilson's family has been in the ranching business for many years, and he has established himself in the business community as well, owning and operating heavy equipment and providing road construction and land clearing for local ranchers. In addition, he has given back to the community through his work as a public servant for the City of Charlotte. He began his service as an Alderman, and rose through the rank of Mayor Pro-Tem to become Mayor, a post he has held with distinction for the past 8 and 1/2 years. He has left his mark on the community in other ways, as well. He and his wife, Jenci, are the parents of four children of their own, and have selflessly given their time to the foster parents' program. Mayor Wilson continues to give his time to his local church, the 4-H, and the Future Farmers of America. Mayor Mark Wilson is a tremendous asset for the City of Charlotte, Texas. His work as a public servant, a successful businessman, and a dedicated father serve as an example to the rest of us. I am proud to have the opportunity to thank him here for all he has done.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the distinguished public service of San Marcos City Council member Bill Taylor. In 1971, Bill Taylor earned his Bachelor's Degree in Government, graduating with honors from San Marcos Baptist Academy. He served for 6 years in the Texas Army National Guard, and has been a member of the National Society of Certified Insurance Counselors. Currently, he is a Commercial Marketing Manager for Bill Taylor & Associates, Inc. Mr. Taylor was elected to the San Marcos City Council in 2002. He has had a tremendously productive career in public service, working on the City's Airport Commission and on the Small Business Development Council. Bill has spent his spare time volunteering for the San Marcos CISD Bond Committee, the Chilympiad Board of Directors, and has been honored with the title of El Jefe. Bill Taylor has lived a life of enormous service to his community. Since arriving in San Marcos 39 years ago, he has been at the center of volunteer project after volunteer project. Along with his many accomplishments for the people of San Marcos, Bill has 6 children with his wife Debbie. Mr. Speaker, City Council member Bill Taylor is an exemplary public servant. His work has made San Marcos safer, healthier, more efficient and more prosperous. I am proud to have the chance to thank him here today for all he has done for his fellow Texans.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Pastor Terrence K. Hayes of St. Paul United Methodist Church for his exceptional career in public service. Terrence K. Hayes has served our community for over thirty years. He has provided spiritual guidance and community leadership for those who need it the most. Pastor Hayes has served as the senior pastor of St. Paul United Methodist Church since 1996. He is a man who believes in the importance of reaching out and helping those in need. An active and passionate advocate of the people, he has held a number of leadership and community service positions. Pastor Hayes is the recipient of numerous awards including the Outstanding Young Men of America, the National Fellowship Fund, the Earl L. Harrison Fellowship, the Henry C. Maynard Award of Outstanding Pastoral Potential, and the Who's Who in America College Students from Hampton Institute. He has written numerous publications including Collaborating in Ministry, Fundraising Resources of the United Methodist Church, and a number of short stories and newspaper articles. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have the opportunity to recognize the hard work and important community achievements of Pastor Terrence K. Hayes.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Jerry Dailey for his dedication and service as a Pastor and community leader in San Antonio, Texas. Dr. Dailey was born in Anderson, Indiana. He attended the public schools of Duval County Florida, and later graduated from Andrew Jackson Senior High School. After high school, Dr. Dailey received a basketball scholarship to study at Bethune-Cookman College. In college, Dr. Dailey was elected Senior Class President and was also a recipient of the Crown Zellerbach Foundation Scholarship to study one year at the University of California, Berkeley. In 1975, he graduated cum laude with a B.S. in Psychology. Dr. Dailey went on to obtain a Masters of Divinity degree in 1979 from Philadelphia's Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary and a Doctor of Theology degree in 1991 from San Antonio's Guadalupe College. Dr. Dailey also holds many other honorary degrees for his work in divinity. For the past 28 years, Dr. Dailey has served many communities as a pastor and community leader. Since 1985, Dr. Dailey has been the Pastor of Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church in San Antonio, Texas. He continues to lead the church today and has led many initiatives in Macedonia's major expansion and renovation efforts. Other community projects of Dr. Dailey's have been establishing the Good Samaritan Food Ministry and Youth Scholarship Fund. Among his many accolades, Dr. Dailey received the 2000 MLK Distinguished Achievement Award Nomination from the City of San Antonio MLK Commission and was the first African American appointed to the Administrative Executive Board of the Baptist General Convention of Texas (BGCT). He is now the newly elected President of the African American Fellowship of the BGCT. His many awards and recognitions attest to the breadth of his service through the years. Dr. Dailey is married to the former Janice M. Pullen and they are the parents of three daughters named Joy Marie, Jasmine Noelle, and Jeri Nicole. He constantly serves as a role model and inspiration for his congregation and the local community. It honors me today to have the chance to recognize and thank Dr. Dailey for his many years of service and contribution.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ed Mihalkanin for his nine years of service to the people of San Marcos, Texas. In addition to serving the City of San Marcos on the Council, Mr. Mihalkanin works at Texas State University as an Associate Professor of Political Science. He has been teaching at Texas State since 1990, and previously taught at Gettysburg College in Gettysburg, PA. He received a Master's Degree in 1985 and a Ph.D in 1991 from American University in Washington, DC. Mr. Mihalkanin is originally from Hanover Park, Illinois, and he received his undergraduate degree at Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois. Mr. Mihalkanin was first elected to the Council in 1996, and currently represents the City Council on the Economic Development Council. He has served as Mayor Pro Tempore in 1999 and Deputy Mayor Pro Tem in 2003-2004. Mr. Mihalkanin is a member of the Downtown Association, the Greater San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce, and many other organizations that help to better the San Marcos community as a whole. Mr. Mihalkanin is a model of hard work and dedication to the city and to his students. By working as project director for the ``Civitas Project,'' Mr. Mihalkanin helped to revive civic life in the communities of Lockhart, San Marcos, and Wimberley, Texas. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have had this opportunity to recognize the many achievements of San Marcos City Councilman Ed Mihalkanin.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Alderwoman Hilda Calvillo for her public service to the city of Charlotte, Texas. Hilda Calvillo was born, raised, and educated in the city of Charlotte. As an active participant in local events, she understands the specific needs of her community. As the first woman to ever be elected, Mrs. Calvillo has served in her city as Alderwoman since 1999. She spends much of her time working in school functions and focusing on local community projects. Having graduated from local schools, she works passionately to ensure that quality education is kept a priority. Also working to keep our communities beautiful, Hilda Calvillo has recently been instrumental in the recent building of a Charlotte city park. Hilda Calvillo lives in Charlotte with her husband. She has three children and two grandchildren. Mrs. Calvillo and her family enjoy sports and spending time with the rest of the community. Mr. Speaker, I am deeply proud to have this opportunity to recognize Alderwoman Hilda Calvillo of Charlotte for her dedicated public service.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize alderman Buddy Lee Daughtry for his public service to the city of Charlotte, Texas. Buddy Lee Daughtry is a hard working alderman in the City of Charlotte. Raised on a small farm, Mr. Daughtry is a family man who continues to help his parents whenever the need arises. While in high school he won numerous awards in science, and later graduated from Charlotte ISD. Working for the prison system, Buddy Lee Daughtry works tirelessly to keep our streets safe. He has served the city of Charlotte as Alderman for the past eight years and has been involved in numerous local programs. It is important to recognize the contributions of citizens like Buddy Lee Daughtry. Their hard work has vastly improved our local communities. Buddy Lee Daughtry lives with his wife Karen in Charlotte and enjoys spending time with his family. Their daughter studies at A&M Commerce. Mr. Speaker, I am deeply proud to have this opportunity to recognize Alderman Buddy Lee Daughtry of Charlotte for his dedicated public service.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Bishop Samuel Edward Iglehart for his unparalleled dedication to his community, church, and family. It is rare to find many people who have gone through life so humbly helping others. However Bishop Samuel Edward Iglehart is one of them. Ordained at the age of 31, Bishop Iglehart has gained a great familiarity with the people of his church and community. Whether it is a fellow officer of the church or a small child in need of assistance, serving humanity is always a top priority for Bishop Iglehart. This priority can be seen in the everyday mission of his church, the Childless Memorial Church of God in Christ. Future goals and milestones Bishop Iglehart plans to implement for the Memorial Church consist of providing a daycare and Christian Academy for children, a learning center for adults, and a Christian book store. Memorial Church has not been the only medium for Bishop Iglehart to serve the community. He is a life-time member of the NAACP and a strong supporter of the United Negro College Fund. For his active community involvement, Bishop Iglehart was inducted into the ``Who's Who Society of Outstanding Church Leaders'' in May of 1989. Besides his commitment to the community Bishop Iglehart dearly loves and is dedicated to his family. His wife Glorious Cosey Iglehart and their six children have a very special bond that can stand the test of time. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to be given the time to pay reverence to the lifetime of service of Bishop Samuel Edward Iglehart and his lifetime of service.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the important achievements of Hays County Sheriff Don Montague, of my Congressional District. Don Montague was elected Hays County Sheriff in 1996, and was re- elected in 2000. As a fourth generation Hays County resident, he began his law enforcement career in 1967 when he joined the Highway Patrol and he rose quickly through the ranks of Hays Counties finest. He has served prior posts as a Patrol Officer, Field Deputy, Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Captain. Sheriff Montague was instrumental in forming and commanding the Hays County Drug Task Force. Under Sheriff Montague's administration, the sheriff's department has evolved into a thriving, highly successful, and professional organization with unprecedented personnel and equipment growth. He currently holds a Master Proficiency Certificate and Instructors License with the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officers Standards and Education. Sheriff Montague is a man who believes in the value of community involvement and intervention. He is a past director of the Sheriffs Association of Texas, a past President of the Texas Capital Area Law Enforcement Association, a past President Hays County Criminal Justice Association, a member of the Texas Crime Prevention Association, and member of the Texas Narcotics Officers Association. Don Montague is an example of proactive law enforcement in our communities. Along with his many contributions to the people of Hays County, Sheriff Don Montague has been married to his lovely wife, Harpie, for 36 years and has 3 children and 5 grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, Sheriff Montague has enriched the community with his vision and I am proud to have this opportunity to thank him.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Judge Keith Baker for his long standing career of service to his country and community. A Vietnam veteran who had served at Cam Ranh Bay and Chu Lai, Mr. Baker is no stranger to dedicated commitment and sacrifice for his country. During his stay at Chu Lai, Keith Baker worked at the Adjutant 27th Surgical Hospital. He helped to serve our troops where his assistance was greatly needed. Having started a distinguished law career in the field of law in 1973, Keith Baker has over 30 years experience serving the needs of our citizens. He has also authored numerous articles for the American Bankruptcy Institute Journal. Mr. Baker additionally serves as Trustee to numerous community organizations, including the Texas Military Institute, the Texas Bar Foundation, the North San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, and the San Antonio Manufactures Association. Judge Baker was first elected in Bexar County as Justice of the Peace in 1982. A dedicated civil servant, Judge Baker works hard for our communities. He specializes in misdemeanor criminal cases, civil cases involving our businesses, consumer cases, and tort. Mr. Speaker, Judge Keith Baker is an exemplary public servant. I am proud to have the opportunity to thank him here today for all he has done for his fellow Texans.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Hays County Commissioner Will Conley for his contributions to the community. Will Conley was born in Lake Charles, Louisiana and then went on to attend high school in Houston, Texas. After graduating from high school, Conley spent one year ranching and outfitting in Uvalde, Texas before attending Southwest Texas State University in San Marcos. During his college tenure, Conley was involved in the Student Body Council, South West Texas Ducks Unlimited and Pi Sigma Alpha. Conley graduated in 2000 with a degree in Political Science and a minor in Business. After receiving his bachelor's degree, Will demonstrated his entrepreneurship abilities when he founded Conley Enterprise Incorporated and the environmentally conscious business of Conley Carwash and Detail. It was working with Conley Carwash and Detail that Will's concern for the environment shown through with the company's policy of recycling 85 percent of the water used for operations. Over the years, Conley's companies have received numerous awards for environmental-soundness such as the Water Efficiency Achievement Award. After producing great results as an entrepreneur, Conley became the youngest elected County Commissioner of Hays County in 2004. As County Commissioner, Conley has promised to work for the improvement of Hays County by focusing on economic development and instilling a more fiscally responsible policy when it comes to the appropriating of tax payer's dollars. During his short time in office, he has already shown the results he has been known for; he has improved road conditions, extended park development and done so much for the better of Hays County. Mr. Speaker, Will Conley has a rare youthful spirit that is dedicated to improving Hays County's quality of life for its citizens and I feel greatly privileged to recognize his accomplishments.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the important contributions of Judge Hector J. Liendo in Laredo, TX in my Congressional District. Born July 10, 1950, Judge Liendo attended Leyendecker Elementary School, L.J. Christen Jr. High and Martin High School. He later attended Laredo Junior College and received his Associates Degree in Computer Science. Judge Hector J. Liendo enlisted in the military and chose the U.S. Navy right after high school. Through the navy he traveled to south East Asia, China, Philippines, Taiwan, Vietnam, Thailand, Borneo, Pakistan, Australia, Singapore, Okinawa, Japan, a brief tour to the ship's maiden name, ``The Anchorage Alaska'' and crossed the equator twice with a big celebration. While in the navy, he made five tours to Vietnam during his four-year enlistment. He was awarded the Vietnam service medal, the Vietnam campaign medal, the combat action ribbon and the Philipino Presidential Citation. He received an honorable discharge in February 1973. Shortly after arriving in Laredo, Judge Liendo left for Michigan where he worked as a crane operator for the Pontiac Motor Company. Later in 1973, he worked at the Laredo City Drug Store in downtown Laredo. He got married in June 17, 1974 and started attending Laredo Junior College, full time. In 1978, Judge Liendo went to Houston, to work in the Seismic Processing Department. He was employed as a computer operator and his duties entailed payroll, accounts payable & receivables, and accounting general ledger. He then worked for Entex as a marketing representative and served as a City Councilman for District VII from 1988-1992. In 1993 he was elected Justice of the Peace, Precinct One, Place One and ran unopposed for a second term in 1997. As Justice of the Peace Judge Liendo deals with civil cases, criminal cases, traffic citations, fines and court hearings. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to have this opportunity to recognize the contributions of Judge Hector J. Liendo.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Alderman Paul Garcia for his public service to the city of Charlotte, Texas. Paul Garcia joined the Army when he was 19 years old. He served throughout Europe for 7 years on various assignments for the United States. During his stay in service, he received the Instructor of the Year Award in 1997 and the Joseph Hibbs Award. He was also awarded of the Kentucky Colonel Award from the Governor of Kentucky. In 1998, he retired after 20 years of service in the military. Mr. Garcia is currently serving his second term as Alderman Place 1. He works on several committees and fundraisers within the community. Currently Paul Garcia has been playing an active role in the establishment of a park in Charlotte. Paul Garcia lives in Charlotte with his wife Frances and they have two children together. As a pillar of his local community, he is a route manager for all of San Antonio and the surrounding country. Mr. Speaker, I am deeply proud to have been given this opportunity to recognize Alderman Paul Garcia of Charlotte for his dedicated public service.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Alderman Augustine Munoz for his public service to the city of Charlotte, Texas. Augustine Munoz is no stranger to serving his country. A veteran of the Korean Conflict, he served as an artillery trainer. It was this same patriotism and dedication that later led him into the service of his local community. Augustine Munoz has lived in Charlotte for over 72 years. His experience spans across many trades, including work in construction and the oil fields. He currently works on numerous committees and has spent time working with the Democratic Party. As a longstanding community participant, he has dedicated much of his life to improving the City of Charlotte. While times may have changed, Augustine Munoz remains a steadfast community leader and organIzer. Augustine Munoz has been married for over fifty years. He is a devoted family man who loves to spend time with his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I am deeply proud to have this opportunity to recognize Alderman Augustine Munoz of Charlotte for his dedicated public service.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize attorney Joaquin L. Rodriguez for his many years of service and civic involvement. Born and raised in Uvalde, Texas, Mr. Rodriguez first attended Southwest Texas Junior College before transferring to University of Texas at Austin and attaining a B.A. in Government. Later, Mr. Rodriguez attended the Texas Tech School of Law and obtained a Doctor of Jurisprudence from the University of Texas School of Law. After passing the Texas Bar in 1982, Mr. Rodriguez started his legal career and quickly became partner at Knickerbocker, Cowan, Heredia & Rodriguez law firm in Eagle Pass, TX. Over the years of his career, Mr. Rodriguez has mainly dealt within the area of personal injury and the representation of Plaintiffs. In 1997, Mr. Rodriguez became a founding partner at Rodriguez & Muniz-Berain Law Firm and worked there for 11 years. Afterwards, Mr. Rodriguez found Joaquin L. Rodriguez & Associates in 1999 and has since been working there, serving the citizens of Eagle Pass. While living and working in Eagle Pass, TX, Mr. Rodriguez has continued to involve himself and serve in the civic community. Among his involvements, Mr. Rodriguez has served as Chairman of the Eagle Pass Housing Authority, Legal Counsel of the City of Eagle Pass Library Foundation, and as Advisory Board Member on a number of local Texas banks. Mr. Rodriguez was also elected as Mayor of Eagle Pass with an impressive 94 percent vote in May, 2002. Among his honors and awards, Mr. Rodriguez was distinguished as ``Professional of the Year'' in 1999 by the Eagle Pass Business Journal. He also became a Keeton Fellow of the University of Texas School of Law Alumni Association in 2001. Mr. Speaker, it has been my pleasure today to recognize the accomplishments and services of Mr. Joaquin L. Rodriguez.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Hal Baldwin, mayor of Schertz, Texas, for his commitment to public service. Hal Baldwin's life has been fully dedicated towards helping of his fellow citizens ever since he served with the 51st Fighter Interceptor Wing at Naba Air Force Base during the Korean war. He continued to serve with the U.S. Air Force until 1974, when he retired from the military profession as a senior master sergeant. After the conclusion of his military tenure, Baldwin moved back to Schertz where he served 6 years as the assistant city manager of Schertz. After his tour of duty as the assistant city manager, Baldwin was appointed to the Schertz City Council in 1983. He served his community with distinction in this post until May 1994 when the City Councilman Hal Baldwin became the Mayor Hal Baldwin. Now, going on 11 years of service to Schertz as Mayor, Hal Baldwin also has spent 48 lovely years with his wife Barbara. They have five children, eight grandchildren, and two great-grand children, all of whom Mayor and Mrs. Baldwin love dearly. Mr. Speaker, I am deeply proud to have been given this opportunity to recognize the Schertz mayor, Hal Baldwin, for his dedicated public service.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the many contributions that Reverend Howard Anderson has made to his community. Howard Anderson is a native of New York City. He first came to Texas to attend the Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, from which he received his Masters in Divinity. Reverend Anderson was ordained in 1980 under the authority and order of St. Paul Baptist Church in San Antonio. He served under the leadership of Live Oak Baptist Church in New Braunfels, and began his interim tenure at Coliseum Park Baptist Church in San Antonio in October 1995. Mr. Anderson has also had a distinguished career in military service. He served for 15 years, winning the Military Excellence Award from the U.S. Navy Senior Enlisted Academy and rising to the highest possible enlisted rank: Chief Master Sergeant. Finally, Reverend Anderson has been a tireless volunteer and community activist. He is an active Mason, a life member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, and a Golden Heritage Life Member of the NAACP. He serves as President of the Ministers Conference of the American Baptist Convention of Texas, and is an adjunct faculty member at the United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio. Mr. Speaker, Reverend Howard Anderson has proven himself to be an outstanding leader, a committed community activist, and an exceptional spiritual resource for the San Antonio community. He has truly distinguished himself, and I am proud to have the opportunity to thank him.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Saul Ramirez for his commitment to serving the citizens of Laredo, Texas. Saul Ramirez began his career as a Laredo City Council Member in 1982. He has held a number of positions in local government, and his contributions to town and country have helped transform Laredo into an international center of commerce. As the Assistant Secretary for Community Planning and Development, he handled major federal neighborhood revitalization, economic development, and homelessness programs within the Department of Housing and Urban Development. As Assistant Secretary he oversaw rehabilitation programs such as Community Block Grant, Hope for Ownership of Single Family Homes, Home Investment Partnership, and various other programs that establish funding for housing and support services. Among other accomplishments in his distinguished career, Mr. Ramirez created the Laredo Affordable Housing Finance Corporation in 1990. He has worked hard to help some of Laredo's poorest neighborhoods. Working to improve housing in the Laredo community, Saul Ramirez's tireless efforts ensure that our citizens have a decent place to live. A former mayor of Laredo, Mr. Ramirez is no stranger to the unique needs of his community. Serving at a time of great community growth, he has helped to provide guidance and leadership for our changing city. Saul Ramirez is the recipient of numerous honors and awards, including Newsweek Magazine's ``25 Most Dynamic Mayors'' in 1996. He has served as Director of the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials, as a Board Member of the U.S. Council of Mayors, and with the Texas Municipal League. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to have this opportunity to recognize the important contributions of Saul Ramirez. His hard work and community dedication have helped to transform Laredo into the city it is today.

Mr. HENRY CUELLAR

Mr. HENRY CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the important contributions of the Reverend Paul D. Stevens, Sr. Rev. Stevens was born the third of seven children in Westlake, Louisiana. His father, Willie Stevens Jr., was also a minister. Paul Stevens first came to Texas to study for his Master of Arts degree, which he received from the Houston Graduate School of Theology. Rev. Stevens has been a minister for over 20 years, and is a certified Pastoral Care Specialist. Under his leadership, the New Covenant Missionary Baptist Church has grown from 188 to over 560 members. He has served the needs of his growing congregation by overseeing the construction of a 1.5 million dollar worship center, and the founding of several new ministry programs. In addition to his formal duties, Rev. Stevens has found the time to participate in several community organizations. He is a member of the NAACP and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, a board member of the Community of Churches for Social Action and the Cooperative Ministry for Higher Education, and a member of the Baptist Ministers Union of San Antonio and Vicinity. Reverend Stevens has been married to Belinda Hubbard Stevens for 20 years, and is the father of two teenagers, Paul Jr. and Kayla. Mr. Speaker, he is a source of tremendous strength for his community and his congregation, and his commitment to serving his fellow man serves as a powerful example. I am proud to have the chance to honor him here today.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the important contributions of the Reverend Edward L. Hayes. Reverend Hayes, who was born in 1948, is a long-time Texan. He attended school in the San Antonio area and later became a graduate of the Guadalupe Seminary. In 1982 Reverend Hayes was ordained to the ministry at Shiloh. He served as Pastor at St. Frederick Baptist Church for nine years before moving to St. Stephen Baptist Church in October of 1994. A dedicated and passionate member of our local community, Reverend Hayes has worked tirelessly as the MLK Commission Chairman for San Antonio and has been instrumental in the Meals on Wheels for Christian Senior Services program. His dedicated community service has helped those who need it the most. It is important to recognize the good work of spiritual leaders in our community. The service and leadership of people like Reverend Hayes is important, especially for the elderly or less fortunate among us. Reverend Hayes spends his days providing not only community guidance, but also leading by his good example. Reverend Edward Hayes and his wife Rice have three children and one grandchild. Rice Hayes is a local teacher at the Judson School District. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to have this opportunity to recognize the contributions of Reverend Edward L. Hayes.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Reverend L.A. Williams for his service to the Wheatley Heights First Baptist Church and to the San Antonio community. Reverend L.A. Williams is a native Texan whose ministry reaches far beyond the walls of the Wheatley Heights First Baptist Church and into the San Antonio community. Currently serving as the Moderator of the Guadalupe District Missionary Baptist Association, College, Incorporated, and other organizations such as the Baptist Minister's Union of San Antonio and Vicinity, Reverend Williams is always trying to reach out to the community to offer a helping hand. Born in Houston, Texas, Reverend Williams attended E.L. Furr High School, and upon graduating studied at Southwestern Business College and the Union Baptist Bible College and Seminary. His awe-inspiring dedication to spreading the Word of God officially started when he delivered his first sermon on the third Sunday of July 1973 at the Greater Mount Olive Baptist Church. He went on to serve many churches across the state of Texas, but since 1984 he has found himself at Wheatley Heights First Baptist Church. It is here in San Antonio that Reverend L.A. Williams has touched the lives of many and helped them realize that there is always much to hope for. Whether he is rebuilding the Church itself due to a flood or helping a kid in need, the Reverend always is serving his fellow man and woman to the greatest degree. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have had the privilege and opportunity to recognize this man of faith, Reverend L.A. Williams.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the important achievements of San Marcos Councilman Daniel Guerrero, of my Congressional District. Daniel Guerrero is a native of San Marcos, and graduated from San Marcos High School in 1995. He decided to further his education and earned his Bachelors Degree in Mass Communication/Public Relations in 2000 from Texas State University. Mr. Guerrero was elected to the San Marcos City Council in 2004. He is actively involved in the community, giving his time to a variety of organizations that work for the public good. He has worked as City Councilman to improve city planning and the city's quality of life. Daniel Guerrero served as President of LULAC No. 654, and was appointed by the City Council to serve on the Arts Commission. He is an inspiration for his public service, and believes deeply in the role of the community in supporting and encouraging strong families. Daniel currently works as a national recruiter and professional development specialist with Inroads, Inc. He is a member of the Austin Chapter of the Society of Mexican American Engineers and Scientists, the Texas State University Alumni Association, and Omega Delta Phi Alumni Association. Mr. Speaker, Daniel Guerrero's career as a public servant has done credit to the city of San Marcos, and I am proud to have the opportunity to thank him.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize distinguished civic service of Seguin Mayor Betty Ann Matthies. Betty Ann Matthies is a native of Guadalupe County. She graduated from Seguin High School, and attended the University of Texas at Austin. She graduated from the Steton School of Nursing in Austin in 1976, and received her Certificate in Heath Care Administration from Trinity University in 1978. Ms. Matthies has been a strong advocate for health care in Guadalupe County. She has been involved in nursing for almost 30 years, and is a member of the American Nurses Association, the Texas Nurses Association, the Texas Organization of Nurse Executives, and the American Organization of Nurse Executives. Betty Ann Matthies entered public service in 2000, as Seguin District 7 City Council Member. In 2004, she was elected Mayor of Seguin. In addition to her executive responsibilities, she finds time to give to a variety of volunteer organizations. She is a member of Seguin Senior Citizens, the Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce, the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and she is director of the Pecan Museum. Betty Ann Matthies has done a great deal for the people of Guadalupe County, both as a nurse and a public official. Her energy and spirit of volunteerism serve as a wonderful example to all of us. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have had this opportunity to recognize the many achievements of Seguin Mayor Betty Ann Matthies.