Henry Cuellar

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Webb County Sheriff Rick Flores for a lifetime of dedication to law enforcement. Rick Flores is an excellent example of a Sheriff who understands the needs of his community. Sheriff Flores spent six years working for the District Attorney's Domestic Violence Unit. A dedicated public servant, Mr. Flores has experience in providing crisis intervention and counseling for local families. Sheriff Flores is a man who believes in the value of community involvement and intervention. He has been the recipient of numerous awards, including the Webb County Domestic Violence Coalition's ``Breaking the Cycle'' Award and his induction into the National Future Leaders Hall of Fame by the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities. Sheriff Flores believes that an informed public is better equipped for preventing crime in our streets and neighborhoods. He has organized numerous events and workshops helping to educate Webb County citizens on pressing issues such as drug abuse, sexual assault and teen violence. Rick Flores is an example of proactive law enforcement in our communities. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to honor the achievements of Webb County Sheriff Rick Flores.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the distinguished public service of San Antonio Mayor Ed Garza. A native of San Antonio, Garza is a graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School, and still lives in the same historic Woodlawn Lake neighborhood where he grew up. He attended the University of Texas at Austin and Texas A&M University, where he received a Bachelor's degree in Landscape Architecture. He has retained his connection with Texas' colleges, serving as an adjunct professor at the University of Texas at San Antonio and at St. Mary's University. Mr. Garza has had a tremendously productive career in public service. He served two terms as District 7 Representative on the San Antonio City Council, where he focused on economic, urban, and human development. He was elected Mayor of San Antonio, and re-elected in 2003. Following the attacks of September 11, Mayor Garza collaborated with other local elected officials to create one of the nation's first comprehensive city-county antiterrorism plans, leading CNN to recognize San Antonio as the second most prepared city in the country, after New York. He has worked to ensure that San Antonio remains a defense leader, and to constantly reform city government to make it more efficient and responsive. Mayor Garza has volunteered his time to advocate for health and fitness in San Antonio. He has helped raise awareness for organizations such as the American Diabetes Association and the Cystic Fibrosis foundation, and has raised money for the Cancer Therapy and Research Center and the San Antonio Children's Shelter. Mr. Speaker, Ed Garza is an exemplary public servant. His work has made San Antonio 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 today to honor the exemplary work of Eddie Aguilar of Seguin, Texas for his dedication and commitment to community service. Eddie Aguilar has made the people of my Congressional district proud, by tirelessly dedicating his time to many non-profit organizations. Mr. Aguilar is a self-proclaimed ``full-time volunteer,'' since his retirement from military service. He has been an active volunteer with the Salvation Army, The Cranny, and the Guadalupe Family Violence Shelter. The life lessons that Eddie gained while he served two years in the United States Army, and fifteen years as a U.S. Marine have aided him when he volunteered his help during times of disaster; such as floods and fires that have affected his community. Eddie also holds the position as disaster relief coordinator with the Salvation Army, and he formally served as a board member of the Guadalupe Family Violence Shelter and The Cranny. His work with the women's shelter and various children's groups has not gone overlooked. Mr. Aguilar was honored by the Seguin community when Councilwoman Jo Anne Sutherland nominated him for the 2004 Time Warner Hometown hero award, many of his family and friends were in attendance when he accepted this award during a banquet in San Antonio, Texas. Honorees of this award are considered to be among the best of the community, and it is an opportunity to honor the area's un-sung heroes. Aguilar takes no credit for his work, and praises his 78-year-old mother as being his constant inspiration. He recognizes his mother with instilling in him the belief of making a difference in someone's life and to think of others well-being ahead of his own. I believe Mr. Aguilar has the qualities that make up a great citizen of Seguin. He demonstrates great dedication to community service, and I am further impressed by the little credit he wishes to receive for his work. Mr. Speaker, I'm proud I have had this opportunity to recognize the noble service of Eddie Aguilar.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Laredo Independent School District Parliamentarian Jesus J. Guerra for his honorable service to his country, his state, and his home town of Laredo, Texas. Jesus Guerra attended Laredo Junior College, Mount View College in Dallas, and the University of Texas at Arlington. He is a lifelong civil servant: he was an employee of the U.S. Postal Service, and rose to the rank of Assistant Superintendent of Operations and Postmaster for Zapata, Texas before his retirement. He is also a military veteran; he served in the United States Air Force from 1961 through 1970, and received an honorable discharge. Jesus Guerra has continued to enrich his community in a variety of ways: he is a member of the City of Laredo Cable commission, a softball coach, and a catechist at St. Vincent and Santo Nino churches. He received the Community Service award from the Federal Bureau of Investigations, and was one of the first Hispanics to receive this high honor. Jesus Guerra continues to reside in Laredo with his wife, Estella, with whom he has six children. He has been a member of the Laredo ISD Board of Trustees since 2001. Jesus Guerra has led a life of exemplary service as a postal worker, a soldier, a volunteer, and an education advocate. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to have this opportunity to congratulate him on his accomplishments, and to thank him formally for all he has done.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize United Independence School District Superintendent Roberto Santos for his many contributions to education in the City of Laredo. Roberto Santos has been a longtime advocate for education in the State of Texas. He received his BA from St. Edward's University in Austin, and completed his Masters in Education at the University of Texas--Pan American campus. Beginning in 1966 as a teacher at Laredo Independent School District, he worked his way up through successive positions in the educational system. He worked as Director of Human Resources, Assistant Superintendent for Support Services, and finally Superintendent of the entire United Independent School District, serving the students of Laredo. Roberto Santos has also enriched the community through his work as a businessman. He began as an auto salesman in 1975, and has been owner or part owner of two businesses, Santos Auto Sales and Homeland Mobile Homes. On top of all this, he has given his time and energy to a multitude of volunteer organizations. He served as President of the Texas Association of School Personnel Administrators and the Kiwanis Club, and served on the boards of the United Way, Laredo Community College, the Laredo South Girls Little League, and the City of Laredo Parks and Recreation. At each step, Roberto Santos has given of himself to make Laredo stronger, and to ensure a quality education for its children. Mr. Speaker, United Independent School District Superintendent Robert J. Santos life is a model of community involvement, and I am pleased to have this opportunity to publicly thank him.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the important contribution of United Independent School District Board Member Juan Roberto Ramirez in Laredo, TX in my Congressional District. Juan Roberto Ramirez is the Secretary on the United I.S.D. Board of Trustees. Even though Ramirez is the District 6 representative, he says his goal is to serve the District as a whole and give the students the best education programs possible. ``Let's not forget that we work united for what is best for our children,'' Ramirez said. Ramirez is a retired U.S. Customs Agent. He is a veteran of the Vietnam conflict, serving his country in the U.S. Army. After graduating from high school, Ramirez attended Laredo Community College and earned a degree in Business Administration. He is also a graduate of the Federal Law Enforcement Academy. Presently, Ramirez works full- time as a Career Advisor for the Laredo Job Corps, is a self-employed businessman, and a notary public. Ramirez served as Vice-Chairman for the Webb County Appraisal District Board of Directors from May of 2002 to July of 2004. Ramirez is grateful for being elected and he feels honored by the confidence the voters have in him. He promises to work hard for his constituents. ``I have an open door to hear everyone's concerns,'' Ramirez said. ``It's an extraordinary experience to be able to work for the kids in the district, to be part of a team that makes decisions for kids and staff.'' Ramirez says it's a thrill to be part of the Board, ``it's a great honor to work for my District.'' Mr. Speaker, I am proud to have this opportunity to recognize the contributions of United Independent School District Board Member Juan R. Ramirez.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Laredo Independent School District Board Member Jorge Luis Rodriguez for a lifetime of distinguished public service. Jose Luis Rodriguez has always been interested in education, and has been a member of the Laredo ISD School Board since May 2000. He is the School Board Trustee for District 2 which oversees Dovalina Elementary school, Macdonell Elementary School and Daiches Elementary School. LISD Board Member Jorge Luis Rodriguez is a credit and an inspiration to his community and a tremendous resource to his county. He believes in helping the children of his community strive to be the best individuals they can be, by giving them a quality education. He instills in the children the value of hard work and determination, and has been able to implicate many positive changes for students, parents, and LISD faculty. Rodriguez is grateful for being elected and thanks his constituents by working hard and earning their confidence. He is currently employed in construction management and automotive sales. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have had this opportunity to recognize the many achievements of Laredo Independent School District Board Member Jorge Luis Rodriguez.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the contributions of Laredo Independent School District Board Member George M. Beckelhymer, of my Congressional District in Laredo, Texas. Mr. Beckelhymer graduated from the University of Texas at Austin, earning his bachelor's degree in radio, television, and film. After graduation he decided to venture into the business world, and he became part owner of L. Bufalo Pawn Shop. In May 2002 he was elected to District 4 of the LISD Board of Trustees, and currently serves as Secretary of the Board. His District includes Sanchez/Ochoa Elementary, Alma Pierce Elementary, K. Tarver Elementary, and J.W. Nixon High School. Mr. Beckelhymer believes in working together with all of the appointed Trustees to create a good working environment between faculty, parents, and children. Mr. Beckelhymer enjoys working for the community, and is an active member of the Citizens Environmental Advisory Committee in the City of Laredo. Beckelhymer hopes to ensure that all students receive the best quality education to prepare them for the future, and he is proud that he is able to help the community move in a positive direction. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to have had the opportunity to honor Laredo Independent School District Board Member George M. Beckelhymer.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the important contribution of United Independent School District Board of Trustees President John Bruce in Laredo, TX in my Congressional District. John Bruce is the President of the U.I.S.D. Board of Trustees. Bruce decided to make a run for elected office because he did not agree with some of the decisions the Board was making. Armed with that motivation, he ran for and was elected to the board in May 2002. ``It's been a challenging and interesting experience,'' Bruce said. ``I've met a lot of fine people.'' John Bruce is the Director of the Laredo Job Corps, an education training facility. As Center Director of Laredo Job Corps, Bruce oversees an organization with an annual budget of $5,500,000. Bruce is also a certified commissioned peace officer and a licensed law enforcement instructor. He is a certified k-9 trainer, a member of the Sheriff's Department SWAT team, and is a former Special Forces Operations officer in the U.S. Army Reserve. Bruce ran on the platform of safety in our schools. He initiated the K-9 Patrol Program in UISD to help curtail drug and gang activity at district campuses. Job Corps recently donated two K-9s, which saved the district nearly $12,000. Bruce has a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism and history from Texas A & I University in Kingsville. He is also a licensed customs broker. Bruce has held numerous positions in several civic and community organizations. He was a member of the 2001 UISD Blue Ribbon Committee, he was vice president of the United High School Booster Club, and Bruce also serves as an advisor to Explorer Post 437. He is a member of the Laredo Masonic Lodge, the Laredo Shriners, and the Elks Lodge. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to have this opportunity to recognize United Independent School District Board President John M. Bruce.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the important of contributions of Laredo Independent School District Superintendent Sylvia Bruni. Ms. Bruni graduated from Incarnate Word College in San Antonio, with a Bachelor of Science Degree in English, Spanish, and Education. She became a high school English teacher, and taught at the United Independent School District for 17 years. In addition to providing an education for others, Sylvia Bruni has served as an example herself of the importance of continuing education throughout life. While teaching at the United lSD, she received her Master of Science in Education from Laredo State University. She also completed programs certifying her as a professional reading specialist, professional supervisor, professional mid-management administrator, and superintendent. Ms. Bruni has held a variety of prestigious posts in Texas education. She was principal at Salinas Elementary School, Director of Curriculum and Instruction at the United lSD, as a faculty member at Laredo Community College, and as Director for the Office of Special Programs at Texas A&M International University. She held the post of Director of Research, Planning, and Development before being named Superintendent of the Laredo Independent School District. These activities, along with her commitment to community volunteerism, have earned Ms. Bruni a variety of awards, including Laredo Community College Top 50 Distinguished Alumni and Laredo Morning Times ``Laredoan of the Year.'' Mr. Speaker, I am proud to add my name to the long list of people who have congratulated Sylvia Bruni on her competent and dedicated service, and her enormous contribution to the state of education in Southwest Texas.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the distinguished public service of Laredo Independent School Board President Dennis Cantu. Dr. Cantu grew up in Texas, graduating from J. W. Nixon High School. He majored in Biology at Baylor University in Waco, and received his Doctorate in Medicine from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston at the age of 23. He specialized in internal medicine, and is currently a Board Certified Internist who practices at Laredo Medical Center and Doctor's Hospital. Dr. Cantu continues to serve the community as Medical Director of the Laredo Fire Department Paramedics. He was recently honored for his enormous contribution to the health and safety of Laredo when one of the Laredo schools was renamed the Dr. Dennis D. Cantu Health Science Magnet School in his honor. Dennis Cantu is now serving his fifth term as President of the Laredo Independent School District Board of Trustees. He has been a trustee for 15 years, and has previously held the posts of Secretary and Vice President. Dennis Cantu is an invaluable resource for Laredo, Texas, and a tireless advocate for the health and education of his fellow citizens. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to have this opportunity to recognize Laredo Independence School District Board President Dennis Cantu, and to thank him for his service.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the important contribution of United Independent School District Board Member Juan A. Molina, Jr. in Laredo, TX in my Congressional District. Juan A. Molina, Jr. is the newest member to join the United ISD Board of Trustees. Molina was elected to the district four seat on May 15, 2004. Molina will serve parents and students attending L.B. Johnson H.S., United South H.S., Los Obispos M.S., United South M.S., the new Centeno Elementary, Perez Elementary, Prada Elementary, Roosevelt Elementary, Ruiz Elementary, and Salinas Elementary. Molina serves on the school district's Student Expulsion Appeals Committee. UISD also has two board members who represent the district's property value interests on the Webb County Appraisal District's (five- member Board of Directors), Juan A. Molina, Jr. is one of two UISD representatives. Molina was born, raised, and educated in Laredo. He spent his after school hours working part-time in his family's business. He is a 1988 graduate of Nixon High School. After obtaining a computer programming and business management degree from Computer Business Management Systems, Molina went to work with his father for six years. He eventually purchased the business from his father in 1994. Under his leadership, the business has prospered and has expanded into new fields. Molina is the owner of South Texas Neon Signs. Molina is married and has three children who attend UISD schools. ``I am involved in my children's education through participation in the school PTC' s and as a Site Based Decision Making Committee member of two schools. I am also a Cub Scout Master because I believe in our kids and want to see a better future for them.'' Molina has gone through special training sessions to provide Laredo Boy Scouts with more camping and outdoor learning opportunities. His new training has allowed him to direct an adventure weekend and assist in another. He helped organize and direct a scout show and ``Spookery'' at Camp Huisache. Molina plays an active role in the Perez Elementary Boy Scout Color Guard. In addition, he was. also a little league assistant coach for two years. He is involved with his church as a choir member, and as an active participant in the annual fund-raising Jamaica. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to have this opportunity to recognize the contributions of United Independent School District Juan A. Molina, Jr.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Laredo Independent School District Board Member John Peter Montalvo for a lifetime of distinguished public service. Mr. Montalvo was elected to the Laredo Independent School District Board of Trustees in May 2000. He is a retired employee of the U.S. Postal Service and former City of Laredo council member. He has contributed much of his time and efforts toward social causes. He has worked with numerous capital improvement projects which included housing rehabilitation, street paving and recreational parks. He also has initiated many health-related programs for low income citizens of his district. As the school board representative for District 3 he serves the parents and children of Bruni, Tarver, and J.C. Martin Elementary school, but believes in serving the community as a whole to give the children the best opportunities possible. Montalvo is an inspiration to all in his community, through his lifetime service to education and the children of Laredo. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to have had this opportunity to recognize the dedication of Laredo Independent School District Board Member John Peter Montalvo, and I thank you for this time.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor County Judge Donald L. Schraub for his years of contribution to the Guadalupe County community as an educator, business professional and county judge. Born in LaVernia, Texas, Judge Schraub graduated from LaVernia High School. He attended the University of Texas at Austin and earned a Bachelors Degree in Zoology and a Teaching Certificate. Before becoming an elected official, Schraub committed years in education and business. Judge Schraub started as a biology teacher in Midland, Texas before returning to the Seguin Independent School District to teach Earth Science. After getting a Master's degree in Education, Schraub continued to serve the school district by becoming a school counselor. Schraub then worked 12 years for the Wholesale Beverage Distribution Company. Following his retirement from business, Schraub returned to be a school counselor in the Nixon Independent School District. As the current Guadalupe County Judge, Schraub has aimed to provide a stable, well balanced fiscal base for the county while insuring the needs of the taxpayer are met. In the Alamo Area Council of Governments, Judge Schraub serves on the Housing Finance, Planning and Program Development, and Rural Area Judges Committees. In his spare time, Judge Schraub likes to hunt, fish, and go camping. Married to his wife Gloria for 16 years, Schraub and his family also enjoy attending the local Christ Lutheran Church. His family has attended the same Christ Lutheran Church for four generations. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have this opportunity to recognize Judge Donald L. Schraub, and to thank him for his years of public service and positive influence on both the young and old of our community.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the accomplishments of Comal County Commissioner Jay Millikin. His patriotism stems from a lifetime of service to both town and country. Jay Millikin served for 24 years in the United States Air Force before becoming a City Councilman, and the eventual Mayor, of the City of Garden Ridge. Commissioner Jay Millikin's commitment to the community is exemplified through his membership and involvement with countless environmental, transportation, and development councils and committees. His diligent efforts have served the citizens of Comal County with distinction since 1999. Commissioner Millikin is a man that understands community needs and the value of hard work and dedication. It is important to recognize the accomplishments of Comal County Commissioners such as Jay Millikin, because they are an inspiration to many others in the community. They are the backbone of positive action in our local counties and communities. Mr. Speaker, it is a pleasure to recognize the accomplishments of Comal County Commissioner Jay Millikin.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Guadalupe County Commissioner Cesareo Guadarrama for his outstanding service to his community. Commissioner Guadarrama is a native of Seguin, Texas. He is the owner of G3 Plumbing, and his experience in small business has given him the skill in leadership and organization that he uses on behalf of his district today. Guadalupe County Commissioner Cesareo Guadarrama has a long history of civic volunteer activity. He has worked especially hard to help the youth and children of Seguin. He has been a part of many volunteer organizations, including Seguin Youth Services, the Guadalupe County Juvenile Citizens Advisory Council, and the Seguin Noon Lions Club. He served as Director of the Seguin Toys for Tots program, and was a member of the Seguin Independent School District Board of Trustees when it was recognized as the Outstanding School Board in the state of Texas, in 1990. Cesareo Guadarrama's work has helped to create a brighter future for the youth of Seguin, and for all of the citizens of Guadalupe County. I applaud him for his spirit of service, and thank him for all he has done for his fellow Texans. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to have had this opportunity to recognize the achievements of Guadalupe County Commissioner Cesareo Guadarrama.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the dedicated public service of Comal County Judge Danny Scheel. Judge Danny Scheel is an essential part of Comal County. He is a fifth-generation resident of the county, and has spent a distinguished career in the public sector, holding the positions of Comal County Constable and Comal County Commissioner. He has also been active as an advocate for his community on the State level. He is a member of the Alamo Area Council of Governments, represents Comal County on the Texas Association of Regional Councils Service Board and Employee Health Benefits Board, and he is Co-Chairman of the Central Texas County Judges' Mobility Alliance. He has been responsible for major improvements in Comal County's emergency management program. In response to the flood of 1998, he hired an Emergency Management Coordinator and established emergency procedures that helped the county cope with the flood of 2002. Danny Scheel has been recognized as New Braunfels Citizen of the Year, A Friend of the 4-H, and was selected to interview with the Today Show during the 2002 floods. Mr. Speaker, he has set a wonderful example of commitment to public service, and I am proud to have this opportunity to thank him.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the accomplishments of Commissioner Gregory Parker. Commissioner Parker is not only the youngest Commissioner to win a seat in Comal County, he is also the first African American elected to this office. Commissioner Parker is a military veteran who has served his country through hard work and commitment to his values. Like many of us, Commissioner Parker had to work his way to the top. He spent 13 years working in the technology sector, eventually earning the title of Director of Software Development at Austin Data Systems. Commissioner Parker founded Gregory Parker Consulting in 1999, where he serves as Senior Partner and Senior Policy Analyst. It was here that Commissioner Parker distinguished himself with his commitment to the issues important to Comal County and to the State of Texas. He is a man who believes that through dedicated community research, and traditional American values, we can provide the quality of policy that our citizens deserve. Commissioner Gregory Parker, who resides in New Braunfels, is also the hard working single father of Jean Luc Parker. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to have this opportunity to honor the past and future accomplishments of Commissioner Gregory Parker.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the accomplishments of Commissioner Jack Dawson. Commissioner Dawson is a life-long resident of Texas and a pillar of the Comal County community. From his first career as a computer programmer for Shell Oil to his current seat as a Comal County Commissioner, Jack Dawson has served his community with distinction. Jack Dawson opened what is now Dawson Realty with his wife Bonnie, and he has also founded the local subdivisions first homeowners association. Commissioner Dawson has spent his life in the service of the public. As the Board President of Canyon Lake Volunteer Fire Department, he helped to form new fire and emergency services districts for the community. He has consistently worked to improve the local communities of Comal County and the State of Texas. Commissioner Jack Dawson has lived with his wife Bonnie Dawson in Comal County since 1976. He is a man that understands community needs and the value of hard work. Mr. Speaker, it is a pleasure to recognize the accomplishments of Comal County Commissioner Jack Dawson.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Guadalupe County Commissioner Jim Wolverton for the important contributions he has made to his community. Jim Wolverton is the son of a military family, and was born in Frankfurt, Germany. He moved to Texas at the age of two, and attended Samuel Clemens High School and San Antonio Junior College. For nine years, Jim owned an electrical contracting business, and learned important lessons about leadership and organization. He has now put those lessons to work for the citizens of Guadalupe County, to great effect. Under his supervision, Guadalupe County has passed legislation which greatly increased the amount of money available for health care for the indigent. He increased county services such as Fire, MES, and Libraries, and supervised the construction of a new, fourteen million dollar jail facility. He has worked with the municipalities in his district to establish quality, long-term business growth, and has worked with organizations outside the county government to ensure an adequate water supply for the residents of Guadalupe County. Jim Wolverton is an intelligent and committed public servant, and the citizens of Guadalupe County are better off as a result of his work. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to have had this opportunity to honor the contributions of Guadalupe County Commissioner Jim Wolverton.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jan Kennady for a lifetime of dedicated public service. Jan Kennady served on the New Braunfels City Council from 1993-1996, and as Mayor of New Braunfels from 1996-1999. Her energy and organizational skill were a tremendous boon to New Braunfels, and she was honored by the Texas State Legislature with a resolution expressing the State's appreciation. She has also worked for years as a volunteer leader and organizer, and has been honored with multiple awards, including 1995 Citizen of the Year, the Chamber of Commerce President's Award, the Women of Distinction Award, and the 10 Outstanding Republican Women Award. In 1998, Governor Bush appointed her to a three-year term on the Texas Commission on Volunteer and Community Service. Her work on education, senior health, and other issues has earned her the thanks of a grateful community. Jan Kennady is a model of initiative, commitment, and talent. She has made her city, her State, and her party stronger by her service. Today, she continues to serve her fellow Texans as Comal County Commissioner. I am honored to have this opportunity to recognize Jan Kennady, and to thank her for all she has done for those people whose lives she has touched. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have had this opportunity to recognize the many achievements of Comal County Commissioner Jan Kennady.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the work of Guadalupe County Commissioner Roger Baenziger. Roger Baenziger is one of Guadalupe County's most loyal and accomplished native sons. He was born and raised in Seguin, attended Seguin High School and received an accounting degree from Texas Lutheran University. He returned to the community to join his father's business, Model Market, which he helped his father run for the last 30 years. As a lifelong small businessman, Roger is uniquely aware of the importance of small business to the health of his community. He works to promote enterprise and innovation as a member of the Chamber of Commerce and the Farm Bureau, and continues to operate his own small ranch. Roger is committed to using his position as Guadalupe County Commissioner to promote orderly growth and fiscal responsibility. As a public servant and a volunteer, he has given an enormous amount back to the community in which he was born and raised. I am proud to have this opportunity to honor his service, and to thank him for all he has done for the people of Guadalupe County. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have had this opportunity to recognize the many achievements of Guadalupe County Commissioner Roger Baenziger.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the dedication of Guadalupe County Commissioner Judy Cope for her civic service. Judy Cope graduated from MacArthur High in San Antonio, and went on to attend the College of the Mainland, receiving a degree in criminal justice. She has put her training to work as a special investigator, compliance officer, gang issues coordinator, and concealed handgun instructor. Commissioner Cope's experience has not been limited to law enforcement; she has held positions in various different fields. Early in her career she worked as an accountant, owned a feed and tack store, assisted with operations at her husband's construction company, and held a state real estate license for 21 years. She now puts this tremendous diversity of experience to work for the citizens of Guadalupe County. She is a strong believer in government transparency and accountability, and she has worked hard to help the public be more involved in county government. Mr. Speaker, Guadalupe County Commissioner Judy Cope's efforts to enforce the law, forge community ties, and open government to the public are worthy of praise, and I am proud to have this opportunity to recognize her work publicly.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Carter Casteel for her service to the people of Texas. Carter Casteel was born in Monahans, Texas. She comes from a family with a tradition of public service; her mother was Monahans city secretary during the community's early founding, and was one of the first women elected to office in West Texas. Ms. Casteel studied at the University of Texas, where she majored in government and history. She received her Masters from Southwest Texas State University, and moved with her husband and children to New Braunfels. After a stint as a public school teacher in Comal, she attended law school and began practicing law in 1985. She was elected to the office of Comal County Judge in 1990, and served there until 1999. She was elected to the Texas House of Representatives in 2001, and works to represent the Texas Hill country and its interests. In addition to her public service career, Carter Casteel has found time to run a successful law practice, Casteel and Casteel, with her son. She has also been involved in a wide variety of community organizations, including the Comal County United Way, Communities in Schools, Habitat For Humanity, and the Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation Committee. She had the honor of being appointed to the Battleship Texas Advisory Board by President George W. Bush, and has served as President of the Comal Independent School District Board of Trustees. Mr. Speaker, throughout her career, Carter Casteel has been an advocate for education, tax reduction, preservation of natural resources and the community values for which the Hill Country of Texas is known. She has done a great deal of good for her community, and I am pleased to have this opportunity to offer her my thanks.

Mr. CUELLAR

Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize all the efforts the San Marcos Mayor Susan Narvaiz has made to her community. Since she moved to San Marcos in 1995 she has worked for the strengthening of the community in a countless number of ways. Susan Narvaiz has been very involved in the advancement of the workforce in San Marcos starting with her first major accomplishment to the community through her business Core Strategies, Inc. which provides employment and training to the people along Interstate 35. In 2000 she launched a similar business Sedona Staffing Industrial Development Center which offers free-of-charge training to citizens so they can find work. Both of these services helped a countless number of people receive the necessary training to successfully compete in the modern work force. Mayor Narvaiz's presence extends for beyond the employment issues she has tackled; she is also an active participant in such organizations as the American Cancer Society and United Way of Hays County. It is also not out of the ordinary to find her supporting the San Marcos High School Basketball and Baseball Boosters Club at a high school function. There is one role that San Marcos Mayor Susan Narvaiz plays in the community that trumps everything; she is married to Mr. Mike Narvaiz and the mother to six beautiful children. For all the ways she serves San Marcos, I would like to thank Mayor Narvaiz for committing her time and energy to the better of San Marcos.