Michael Cloud

Mr. CLOUD

Mr. CLOUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Atzenhoffer Chevrolet in Victoria, Texas, for over 100 years of business. Founded on April 19, 1926, by Ed Atzenhoffer, this dealership began as a modest operation with just two employees in a small downtown building. Through determination, hard work, and a commitment to treating people right, Ed built a business and a lasting institution of the region. Known for his larger-than-life personality, he set a standard of service and integrity that continues to define the company today. Their success is deeply intertwined with the story of Victoria itself. Over the past century, Atzenhoffer Chevrolet has played a vital role in the economic growth and development of Victoria and the surrounding region. From the early days of South Texas expansion to the modern era, the dealership has provided reliable transportation, created jobs, and supported countless local families. This milestone is especially remarkable because of the continuity of leadership across four generations. Each generation of the Atzenhoffer and Greeson families has carried forward the founder's vision while adapting to changing times. From Ed Atzenhoffer, to Milton ``Bully'' Greeson, to Milton Greeson, Jr., and now to current dealer-principal Tommy Taylor, the business has remained rooted in the same values of hard work, community commitment, and long-term stewardship. Reaching 100 years in business is no small feat. It reflects resilience through economic downturns, industry shifts, and changing consumer needs. It is a testament not only to strong leadership, but also to the loyalty of employees and the trust of generations of customers throughout South Texas. Today, Atzenhoffer Chevrolet stands as a cornerstone of the Victoria community and a shining example of the American entrepreneurial spirit at work. Their century-long legacy demonstrates what is possible when dedication, family values, and community spirit animate the principles of an organization. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Atzenhoffer Chevrolet on their 100th anniversary and for their continued work in representing the best of what Victoria has to offer.

Mr. CLOUD

Mr. CLOUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 2026 Police Officer Memorial Ceremony in Corpus Christi, which is taking place as a part of National Police Memorial Week. Today, we honor the courage, sacrifice, and service of our fallen law enforcement officers. Law enforcement officers serve on our frontlines every day, protecting our neighborhoods, standing between our communities and harm, and upholding justice. Those we memorialize gave everything in that service. Their sacrifice must never be forgotten, and their families deserve our deepest and most enduring gratitude. In recent years, we have honored Corpus Christi Police Department's (CCPD) own fallen officers, Kyle Hicks and Vicente Ortiz, who gave their lives in the protection of this community in 2024. This year marks the 134th anniversary of the first CCPD Officer killed in the line of duty, City Marshall Elias Mussett Jr., and the 166th anniversary of the death of Nueces County Sheriff Deputy Thomas Nolan, who was killed in the Line-of-Duty in 1860. We also especially remember Lieutenant Albert Stout from Robstown Police Department, who passed away in August of 2025 after 31 years of service. From Nolan to Stout, we take this opportunity to remember all of our fallen heroes, honor their legacy, and renew our commitment to support and pray for their families. The bonds of brotherhood in this law enforcement community are best known by the example and testimony of their fellow officers. The continued excellent work of the agencies and officers gathered in Corpus Christi today carries on the life and legacy of the fallen. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in remembering these heroes of the Coastal Bend and in expressing our unwavering support for the law enforcement officers across Nueces County and our great Nation.

Mr. CLOUD

Mr. CLOUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the 125th anniversary of Ganado Independent School District, a proud pillar of education and community in South Texas. Established on June 8, 1900, Ganado ISD has upheld a long-standing commitment to excellence. For over 125 years, the district has shaped generations of students, guided by a passionate community that puts kids first. Ganado ISD has achieved remarkable success both inside and outside the classroom. The district has earned eight team state championship titles in athletics, along with numerous individual state championships across athletics and other extracurricular activities. Its award- winning band, known as ``The Pride of the Tribe,'' has been recognized as a state marching medalist. Additionally, Ganado ISD consistently produces high achievers at the state and regional levels in UIL academic contests, art, cheerleading, One Act Play, and FFA. Under the leadership of Superintendent Dr. Jonathon Szymanski, the district continues to build upon its strong foundation while preparing students for the future. As the community gathers to celebrate this historic milestone, we congratulate Ganado Independent School District on 125 years of excellence and wish them continued success in the years ahead.

Mr. CLOUD

Mr. CLOUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Seaman 1st Class Clyde Clifton McMeans, who died aboard the U.S.S. California during the Pearl Harbor attacks, and is now finally being laid to rest at the Coastal Bend State Veterans Cemetery. Identification of McMeans' remains was made in November of 2025, and he now receives full military honors nearjy 85 years after his death. McMeans was born in Karnes City, Texas, in 1915 and was one of 9 children of Elvarena and Clarence McMeans. His family moved to the Coastal Bend in the next decade, and McMeans attended school in Agua Dulce before completing his education at Banquete High School. He enlisted in the Navy in 1940 and was stationed on the U.S.S. California for just over a year before the Pearl Harbor attacks on that fateful day of infamy, December 7th, 1941. Remains that could not be identified from the California were interred at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Honolulu until the Navy contacted McMeans' surviving siblings in the early 2000s to collect DNA samples. In the past year, Navy officials notified the McMeans family of the positive identification of Clyde's body made possible through the work of the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency. McMeans' burial comes after Storekeeper 3rd Class Robert S. Garcia, another Coastal Bend native who served aboard the California and died in the attacks, was also identified and recently buried in Corpus Christi. South Texas and the Coastal Bend Veterans Cemetery now carry the distinct privilege of honoring the life and service of Clyde McMeans and his heroic sacrifice for our nation. I thank the Navy, the several veterans organizations that assisted with this effort, and most of all, the McMeans family for their work to carry on the remarkable life of Seaman McMeans.

Mr. CLOUD

Mr. CLOUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Charles Richter, a World War II veteran and Victoria resident, as he celebrates his 100th birthday. His life reflects service, perseverance, and a deep commitment to family and country. Charles was born on March 23, 1926, in Yoakum, Texas, into a German American family with deep roots in South Texas. He spent his early years in Brownsville before moving to Victoria. As the oldest of six children, during the years surrounding the Great Depression and World War II, he helped support his family while completing his education. The day after graduating from Victoria High School in 1944, Charles enlisted in the United States Navy and served during the final year of World War II as a boiler room technician aboard destroyer escorts protecting merchant convoys in the Atlantic Theater. Following the war, Charles earned a business degree from Texas A&I University in Kingsville, married in 1951, and then began a career as a transportation superintendent. After retirement, he operated a cattle ranch and dedicated his time to mentoring youth as an assistant Scoutmaster. In recognition of his lifelong commitment to service, Charles was awarded the ``Spirit of Scouting'' Award by the Rio Grande Council's South Texas Council on January 22, 2026. As he celebrates a century of life, we honor his legacy of hard work, humility, and devotion to his family, community, and country. I wish Charles a happy birthday.

Mr. CLOUD

Mr. CLOUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Abraham Z. Suarez, a World War II Veteran and Victoria Resident, as he celebrates his 100th birthday. His life reflects courage, sacrifice, and a deep commitment to family and country. Abraham was born on March 16, 1926, in Tynan, Texas, and grew up on a farm near Seguin, Texas. The son of a hardworking sharecropper, Abraham learned the values of dedication and perseverance. He attended a one- room schoolhouse, walking two miles each day with his siblings. Just weeks after turning 18, Abraham answered the call to serve our Nation during World War II. He was inducted into the Army Air Corps, and after training across the United States, he deployed to Okinawa. There, he served with the 1940th Ordnance Ammunition Company, helping distribute vital supplies to U.S. forces. For his service, he received the World War II Victory Medal, the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, and a Good Conduct Medal. After the war, Abraham continued serving, first in Germany, then at Foster and Aloe Field Army Bases in Victoria, and later, Matagorda Island. During this time, he met his future wife, Josephine, at a movie theater in Victoria, and went on to build a loving family, raising ten children. His legacy continues on with 31 grandchildren, 71 great- grandchildren, and more than 30 great-great grandchildren. Today, we honor his extraordinary life and service, an example of the Texas spirit and the best of what the Coastal Bend has to offer. I wish a happy birthday to Mr. Suarez.

Mr. CLOUD

Mr. CLOUD. Mr. Speaker, I applaud the Chair for his diligent work on this piece, and I thank him for his guidance on this committee. I look forward to our continued work, and I encourage support of this legislation.

Mr. CLOUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the fiscal year 2026 Energy and Water Appropriations Act. As vice chair of the Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Subcommittee, I am encouraged by this bill's historic commitment to unleashing American energy dominance, while also responsibly stewarding taxpayer dollars. We are at a time when our Nation is at an energy crossroads. Certainly, as we work to win the AI race against China, energy dominance is mandatory. This bill appropriately allocates resources to invest in our nuclear capabilities, mining production, water resources, and more. Specifically, this bill repurposes wasteful Biden administration spending on things like unproductive carbon capture toward real infrastructure and energy production capabilities. This includes $1.785 billion in total resources for nuclear energy technology, $720 million in investments for fossil energy production, and $190 million to improve cybersecurity and grid resilience. Unleashing American energy dominance means truly building our production and infrastructure to meet the modern demands, not just coming up with more and more regulation. A prime example of real building is found in the $10.435 billion secured for the Army Corps of Engineers and their projects such as improvements to the Matagorda and Corpus Christi Ship Channels in south Texas. The Port of Corpus Christi, for example, is the leading energy exporter in the country, and its strength is essential to our Nation's energy security. In addition to these critical energy investments, this bill points investments toward desalination projects, drought response, and rural water supplies so that our communities can receive much-needed relief and long-term stability. This bill gets us on the right path in accomplishing the Trump administration's goal of energy dominance and leaves behind wasteful and destructive, often counterproductive, Biden administration spending and regulation that created things like the Office of Energy Justice and Equity and crippled our efficient and cost-saving energy production capabilities.

Mr. CLOUD

Mr. CLOUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong opposition to H.R. 2550. The proposed legislation is designed to nullify President Trump's lawful executive order to exclude agencies with national security missions from collective bargaining agreements. Article II of the Constitution is crystal clear: The executive power is invested in the President of the United States. Let me repeat: All authority in the executive branch flows from the people to the duly elected executive. Anyone operating outside of the pleasure of the President in the executive branch is simply part of an unconstitutional fourth branch of government. The President holds the sole authority. Yet for decades, Federal collective bargaining agreements have been allowed, and some are even designed to restrict the President's ability to lead the government we elected him to run. That is why President Trump, acting fully within the authority granted by the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978, amended Jimmy Carter's 1979 executive order, to exempt additional agencies from burdensome collective bargaining agreements--agencies such as the Departments of Defense, State, Justice, Homeland Security, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, as well as many others. The left's disdain for the Constitution cannot be more clear. We saw this during Trump administration 1.0 with the resistance movement. During the Biden administration we saw the auto pen controversy where they even went around the executive. The Biden administration spent the final months, even after being voted out of office, frantically signing union contracts which were explicitly designed to sabotage the incoming administration and prevent President Trump, elected by the people, from carrying out the mandate he was given. These same government unions are not neutral public servants. In the 2023 to 2024 election cycle, the four largest Federal employee unions spent nearly $1 billion on politics, with 98.8 percent of their Federal contributions going to the Democratic Party. Unions like the American Federation of Government Employees, the National Treasury Employees Union, AFSCME, SEIU, and others affected by this executive order have made no secret of their intent to resist the agenda the American people voted for. As Congress, we need to ensure that the Constitution is upheld. We need more legislation like the Preserving Presidential Management Authority Act, which simply reaffirms Article II and ensures that no future administration can permanently handcuff its successor. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to defend Article II, reject this H.R. 2550, and stand with the American people who sent us here to drain the swamp, not to protect it.

Mr. CLOUD

Mr. CLOUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with great pride to honor one of the most beloved sons of the Texas 27th Congressional District, Brother Gary Moses of Victoria, Texas. For more than 50 years, Brother Gary has been the heartbeat of Victoria and the entire Crossroads region. As a longtime educator at Patti Welder Middle School, a legendary radio voice on Majic 95.9, and Victoria's undisputed ambassador of joy, he has touched countless lives with his infectious smile and genuine love for every person he meets. Whether Brother Gary is emceeing the Gorgeous Grandma Pageant, championing the Marine Toys for Tots on television commercials, firing up the crowd at Riverside Stadium for the Victoria Generals, or leading the Christmas parade, Brother Gary shows up with enthusiasm that lifts the entire community. At 73 years young, Brother Gary is always reminding us that, in Victoria, we are all family. His nickname, Brother Gary, is not just a radio handle. It is the truest description of how he treats everyone he encounters. Residents make sure he is invited to every celebration because they know an event simply isn't complete without Brother Gary's presence. Mr. Speaker, Brother Gary Moses embodies the very best of the Texas spirit: faith, family, and hard work. On behalf of the people of the 27th Congressional District and the countless lives he has brightened, I am proud to recognize him today and thank him for reminding us all of how one person truly can make a difference and make a community feel like a home.

Mr. CLOUD

Mr. CLOUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with great pride to honor one of the most beloved sons of Texas's 27th Congressional District, Brother Gary Moses of Victoria, Texas. For more than fifty years, Brother Gary has been the heartbeat of Victoria and the entire Crossroads region. As a longtime educator at Patti Welder Middle School, a legendary radio voice on Majic 95.9, and Victoria's undisputed ambassador of joy, he has touched countless lives with his infectious smile and his genuine love for every person he meets. Whether he's emceeing the ``Gorgeous Grandmas'' pageant, television commercials supporting the Marines Toys for Tots, firing up the crowd at Riverside Stadium for the Victoria Generals, or leading the Christmas parade, Brother Gary shows up with enthusiasm that lifts an entire community. At 73 years young, he is always reminding us that in Victoria, we are all family. His nickname ``Brother Gary'' is not just a radio handle; it is the truest description of how he treats everyone he encounters. Local businesses surprise him with appreciation breakfasts, and residents make sure he's invited to every celebration because they know an event simply isn't complete without Brother Gary's presence. Mr. Speaker, Brother Gary Moses embodies the very best of the Texas spirit: faith, family, and hard work. On behalf of the people of the 27th District and the countless lives he has brightened, I am proud to recognize him today and thank him for reminding us all how one person truly can make a community feel like home.

Mr. CLOUD

Mr. CLOUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Victoria College, one of the oldest community colleges in Texas, as it celebrates its 100th year anniversary. For generations, Victoria College has served families across the Golden Crescent region, and each year, thousands of students enter its doors for education and training. In 1925, Victoria College had a humble beginning in a small classroom on the third floor of a high school with just over 50 students. 100 years later, the campus now spans more than 60 acres and enrolls over 6,000 students each year. The growth and success of Victoria College has been invaluable to the regional and economic development of the Coastal Bend region, and the seven counties it serves (Victoria, DeWitt, Calhoun, Jackson, Refugio, Gonzales and Lavaca). Students can earn degrees or certificates in a number of different programs, including Business & Technology, Industrial Trades, Public Service, and much more. As an institution, Victoria College has been integral in deepening relationships between businesses, government officials, and the regional workforce for decades. Its enduring success is a testament to its identity as an established community partner. Beyond its comprehensive program offerings and its dedicated staff, Victoria College contributes to local cultural and heritage growth. The Museum of the Coastal Bend, located on campus, showcases the rich history of the coastal region. The Leo J. Center for the Performing Arts is owned and operated by the College, and the state-of-the-art Emerging Technology Complex is used for professional development, conferences, and local events. On this 100th Anniversary, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Victoria College and its long-standing history as an example of the importance of civic institutions for the preservation of our future generations.

Mr. CLOUD

Mr. CLOUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the historic City of Gonzales, Texas, as it celebrates 200 years since its founding in 1825. Named by James Kerr after Governor Rafael Gonzales of Coahuila and Texas, this settlement was briefly abandoned and later rediscovered in 1832 by Byrd Lockhart and has grown into a cornerstone of Texas' enduring history. Gonzales is renowned as the birthplace of the Texas Revolution, where the defiant ``Come and Take It'' rally cry first echoed. When Mexican soldiers were sent to retrieve a cannon from the small settlement, a small cohort of men successfully resisted in what is now called the Battle of Gonzales. This heroic stand showcased the unyielding courage and determination of its people--qualities that continue to define the city today. It was this cannon that fired the first shot for Texas' Independence, and today, because of it, the city stands as one of the oldest settlements across the entire state. Just years later, when William Travis sent out a plea for reinforcements at the Alamo, 32 men from Gonzales were the only ones to answer the call. All of these men lost their lives and today are honored as the ``Immortal 32'' for their heroism in fighting for freedom and to overthrow an oppressive government. After the Texas Revolution, Gonzales would rebuild and later become an agricultural hub, reflecting the sacrifices and hardships of Texans on the frontier. Thanks to cattle ranching and this agricultural production, Gonzales helped spur the growth of the larger Texas economy. The story of Gonzales is one of courage and resilience in the face of hardship and toil. Today, the town continues to embrace its rich history and maintains the Texas spirit through its museums, historical sites, and traditional celebrations. As we mark this historic milestone, I congratulate the city of Gonzales on its bicentennial and honor the enduring legacy of resilience and strength that it represents. Representing this city and its people in Congress is a great honor and privilege.

Mr. CLOUD

Mr. CLOUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. C. Frederick Wilson, who is a U.S. Navy veteran and former police officer in Dayton, Ohio. In 1960, during his time in law enforcement, he committed his life to Christ. Sensing a call to ministry, he exchanged his badge for a Bible and entered full-time ministry in 1965. Over the years, Dr. Wilson has served as an evangelist, area director for the Christian Broadcasting Network's 700 Club, and pastor of two churches. In 1977, he and his wife, Katrina, founded Christ Life Ministries in Kettering, Ohio, where he served as senior pastor for over 30 years. Today, he continues to serve as Bishop of the ministry, while Katrina, his longtime copastor, remains an integral part of their shared mission. Together, they have four children and eleven grandchildren. Dr. Wilson earned a B.A. from Lee University and a Doctor of Ministry from Oral Roberts University. In 2008, he was awarded an honorary Doctor of Theology by Christ for India Seminary in recognition of his mission work in India and other nations. A sought-after speaker, Dr. Wilson has ministered across the U.S. and internationally at churches, conferences, and seminars. He has also served as an instructor for Christian Life School of Theology, teaching the course Living by Faith, and is the author of The Ultimate Money Plan for Followers of Christ. Dr. Wilson's deepest desire is to encourage and strengthen others to live a victorious Christian life in today's world by sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ.

Mr. CLOUD

Mr. CLOUD. Mr. Speaker, as I heard the horrific news of the assassination of Charlie Kirk, I was on my way to speak to a group of pastors who had come here to tour the Capitol and take in our beloved National Capital. I couldn't help but in that moment be reminded of Hebrews 11, which people of faith understand to be the hall of fame of faith. It goes through the chapter and explains all the great feats of faith of people like Abraham, Moses, Samson, and David. It talks about how they, through faith, conquered kingdoms, administered justice, and gained what was promised. It goes on, and it continues. It says that there were others who were tortured, refusing to be released, so they may gain an even better resurrection. Some faced years of floggings, even chains and imprisonment. It goes on to say that the world was not worthy of them. The world was not worthy of Charlie Kirk. He spoke truths that we understand that we can build a life upon. He also understood that there were truths that we could build a nation upon. He, more than any, conveyed those things with clarity, especially to a generation who had been taught moral relativism and had been taught that truth could not be found. He spoke very clearly and with compassion and human dignity. Above all, beyond his faith and beyond his policy, he had the courage. He had the courage to make a difference and the courage to stand. I hope that we continue with that same courage, as we continue to serve the people of this great Nation. Mr. Speaker, let's remember his family, as well. God bless Charlie Kirk.

Mr. CLOUD

Mr. CLOUD. Mr. Chairman, I thank our chairman for his great work on this bill. I am happy to say that this bill supports the much-needed transition away from the policies of the previous administration in regard to energy and water and puts us on the right path, which is much needed, to support the President's agenda. It does this in a few ways. It cuts waste, fraud, and abuse. It preserves our nuclear stockpiles so America can continue the President's mandate of peace through strength, and it works to restore our energy dominance and security that President Trump accomplished in his first administration. Yet, the Biden administration worked to undermine us at every step along the way. Mr. Chair, $5.1 billion in green new energy scam funds are being transferred to various nuclear programs, including the Advanced Reactor Demonstration Program, which helps companies get closer to building nuclear facilities. This is extremely important. We saw how the EV mandates and the policies of the previous administration spent billions and billions building only a handful of charging stations, again undermining America's energy dominance. In the base of this bill, there is $50 million for the ARDP demonstration programs and $77 million for risk-reduction projects. We secured close to $5 billion in Army Corps projects that improve navigation and operating waterways for vessels which strengthens our economy, helps us to export, and helps us to lead on the world stage. Projects like the Matagorda and Corpus Christi Ship Channel projects provide waterways for imports and exports, resources like LNG, crude oil, fertilizers, chemicals, and petrochemicals. The Corpus Christi Ship Channel alone exports the highest amount of crude oil in the country and is one of the top exporters of LNG to our allies and friends around the world, being the number one energy export port in the world. Water is going to be a major issue as we continue to go forward and develop. There is language in here that points to desalination projects to help receive research and development funds so we can continue to lead, grow, and develop, and it contains language for the Bureau of Reclamation to develop seawater desalination facilities as we continue to move forward. Mr. Chair, I thank the chairman for his leadership on this and for the great work in supporting the President's agenda. Mr. Chair, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CLOUD

Mr. CLOUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the city of Corpus Christi, officially designated as the first Coast Guard City in the State of Texas. For over 45 years, the men and women of the Coast Guard have served our region with courage: conducting daring rescues, safeguarding our ports, training the next generation, and responding with excellence when disaster strikes. From patrolling our waters to securing energy shipments to their recent heroic efforts responding to the floods in Kerrville, their work keeps both our region and our Nation safe. The Coast Guard in Corpus Christi conducted hundreds of search-and-rescue missions and saved countless lives. I thank the Coast Guard crews up and down our district along the Gulf of America for their hard work and living out their commitment to faith, service, and freedom every single day. I also thank my fellow citizens of Texas' 27th District for living a life and honoring the service of these guardsmen. Congratulations, Corpus Christi.

Mr. CLOUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise as well to honor the Ganado Maidens, our 2025 UIL 2A State champions. With a 5-4 comeback win, the Maidens closed out their season fueled by grit with a 19-game win streak. The Maidens were down, with one out to go, when they delivered a 2-1 rally that turned the game in their favor. As one local paper put it: It took all of Ganado. It certainly did. Congratulations to the Maidens, their coaches, their families, and the entire Ganado community on a championship that reflects the very best of Texas. Honoring the City of Corpus Christi

Mr. CLOUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate the London Pirates baseball team, the 2025 UIL 3A D1 State champions. With a 4-3 win, the Pirates secured their second State title in program history, capping off a dominant postseason and a 14-game winning streak. This championship reflects the discipline and heart that defines London athletics and the unwavering support of a proud community. Congrats to the Pirates on a remarkable season. Congratulating Ganado Maidens

Mr. CLOUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate a historic moment for Calallen High School. The Calallen Wildcats baseball team captured the UIL 4A D1 State championship with a 5-3 win, ending a 17-year title drought and bringing home the program's fourth State title. Ranked number one in Texas and number two nationally, they lived out their motto: Win on the last day. Not to be outdone, the Calallen Lady Cats softball team made history of their own, winning their third consecutive UIL 4A D1 State softball championship. This marks the first time in Coastal Bend history that both the baseball and softball titles were won by the same school in the same year. Congratulations to the Calallen Wildcats Head Coach Steve Chapman, Lady Cats Head Coach Teresa Lentz, and to all the Calallen Wildcats and Lady Cats. What a great year for Calallen. Congratulations. Congratulating London Pirates Baseball Team

Mr. CLOUD

Mr. CLOUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Ganado Maidens softball team--2025 UIL 2A State Champions. With a final score of 5-4 over Riesel, the Maidens capped off a 33-5- 1 season marked by grit, discipline, and heart. They entered the postseason on a 19-game winning streak and held their opponents to just 9 total runs across 10 playoff games. This championship wasn't handed to them. In the title game, they were down to their final out then delivered a two-run rally that turned the tide. That's the kind of resilience that defines Texas athletics and Texas values. It wasn't just one team on the field--it was an entire community behind them. Coaches, families, classmates, and neighbors, each playing a role. As one local paper put it, ``lt took all of Ganado.'' And it did. In a time when the spotlight so often falls on the wrong examples, these young women reminded us what it means to fight for something bigger than yourself. Their victory is more than a trophy. It's a testament to hard work, unity, and the enduring spirit of Texas. I congratulate the Maidens.

Mr. CLOUD

Mr. CLOUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the extraordinary bravery and service demonstrated in response to the devastating flooding across Central Texas. Over the past several days, catastrophic flooding along the Guadalupe and Colorado Rivers has shaken communities across the Texas Hill Country. Lives have been lost, others are still missing, and boots remain on the ground--searching, rescuing, and doing everything possible to bring families back together. On July 4, 2025, as the floodwaters surged near Hunt, Texas, the United States Coast Guard launched a rescue crew out of Air Station Corpus Christi at 5:30 a.m. Despite severe weather and three aborted attempts, the crew aboard an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter pushed through. That crew--Aircraft Commander Lieutenant Ian Hopper, Co-Pilot Lieutenant Blair Ogujiofor, Flight Mechanic Petty Officer Seth Reeves, and Rescue Swimmer Petty Officer Scott Ruskan--is a team of American heroes who carried out one of the most consequential rescue operations this country has ever seen. Petty Officer Ruskan was lowered into the flood zone and coordinated rescues for more than three hours, working with state, local, and military partners across three landing zones. In his first rescue mission, he helped save 165 lives--15 of whom were airlifted directly by the Coast Guard crew. This mission was one part of a larger operation, powered by 54 Coast Guard personnel rotating day and night to keep rescue efforts moving across the region. Every hour, lives are being saved by men and women who step into harm's way so others can make it home. In the face of tragedy, we're reminded of what makes this country strong: selflessness, courage, and Americans willing to step into danger to protect others. Texans are known for their resilience, but no one overcomes disaster alone. I thank every Coast Guardsman, first responder, and local official who acted swiftly and selflessly to help their neighbors. May God strengthen those still searching, comfort those who mourn, and bless the brave men and women who ran toward the rising waters. God bless Texas, and God bless the United States of America.

Mr. CLOUD

Mr. CLOUD. Mr. Speaker, today the House advances another pillar of President Trump's America First agenda with the passage of the American Entrepreneurs First Act of 2025. This bill ensures that taxpayer-funded SBA loans are reserved for American small businesses, not illegal aliens, certainly not children or people who are dead. Americans are grateful to finally have a President in office who is protecting their taxpayer dollars and looking to weed out waste, fraud, and abuse. Billions of loans have been flagged for suspected fraud and ineligible applicants, including illegal aliens. The Trump administration has instituted a policy requiring SBA loan applications to include citizenship verification provisions. It is common sense. This bill codifies these Trump-era safeguards into law so that no future administration can turn Federal relief into a global giveaway. This is about ensuring we have the validation mechanisms in place to ensure the rule of law. It is about prioritizing Americans. It is about making sure that when a small business owner like those in Texas, or anywhere else, fills out an application, they know the system is fair and the resources are theirs to access. With every bill codifying President Trump's EOs, we are moving closer to a government that puts America first, protects American workers, and restores American sovereignty. Let's support this bill.

Mr. CLOUD

Mr. CLOUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Bill Matthys--a man whose life reflects a steadfast commitment to education, public service, and community. Raised in rural Wharton County, Mr. Matthys graduated from El Campo High School in 1965, later earning degrees from Wharton County Junior College and the University of Houston, including a BA in English and Journalism and a master's in Curriculum and Instruction. In 1967, he married Pamela, his high school sweetheart, and together they built a loving family and a legacy of service. Following college, Mr. Matthys served on active duty in the United States Army from 1970 to 1974, including time stationed in Germany, and later in the Army Reserve until his honorable discharge as a Captain in 1981. His service to our Nation was marked by integrity and continued through his 35 years dedicated to public education in Texas. He worked as both a teacher and administrator, with 16 of those years at Cuero ISD. After retiring from education, he continued serving the community through legal work as a certified paralegal at a local firm. His civic involvement has been just as remarkable. He has served on the boards of the Cuero Chamber of Commerce, the Cuero Lions Club, the Cuero ISD Education Foundation, and the DeWitt County Habitat for Humanity. For 17 years, he represented the people of Cuero on the City Council, including 14 years as Mayor Pro-Temp. Mr. Speaker, Bill Matthys represents the very best of servant leadership. His life is a testimony to the impact one person can make through quiet faithfulness, love for family, and a deep-rooted commitment to community. May God continue to bless him, his family, and all those he serves.

Mr. CLOUD

Mr. CLOUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 150th anniversary of St. Michael's Catholic Church in Cuero, Texas--a beacon of faith, education, and community. Since 1875, St. Michael's has stood as a cornerstone for Cuero, proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ, fostering fellowship among believers, and serving as a pillar of the community. Founded on land donated by the Cuero Land and Immigration Company, St. Michael's was established to provide local Roman Catholics with a place of worship without the burden of traveling to Meyersville, Texas each Sunday. It began under the leadership of its first resident pastor, Rev. V.L. Manci, S.J. The church was built on a foundation of faith and dedication--values that continue to flourish today under the guidance of Father Jacob Mendoza. Two years later, in 1877, St Michael's Catholic School opened in the church's rear building, serving nearly 110 students annually and offering an education rooted in the power of God. These two institutions have long stood as backbones of the community. Beside them, the historic bell tower--completed in 1902--also remains a cherished landmark in Cuero. Together, they all remain a lasting symbol of the strong spirit of the Cuero community. This 150th anniversary milestone reflects the enduring faith of St. Michael's parishioners and the church's lasting impact on the Cuero community. From holding food drives to yearly festivities--this congregation shows the power and true testament of God's faithfulness. May God continue to bless St. Michael's, its parishioners, and the entire Cuero community for generations to come.