Mónica De La Cruz

Ms. De La Cruz

Ms. De La Cruz. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to celebrate more than 40 years of the Wilson County News, a cornerstone of community journalism in south Texas. In 1984, Elaine Kolodziej turned her vision into reality, launching the Wilson County News without any prior publishing experience but with the dream to give her community a true local paper. She even hand- delivered each issue herself every Tuesday to ensure it reached the readers. Under Elaine's leadership, Wilson County News flourished as a woman- owned and -operated small business. Through the years, they have adapted to new technologies to expand coverage and launch their website in 2002 to bring local stories to an even wider audience. Today, the Wilson County News continues its proud tradition of delivering high-quality journalism. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Elaine and the entire Wilson County News team for more than four decades of dedication to delivering news to Wilson County. Recognizing Aiden Reed

Ms. De La Cruz. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to recognize the accomplishments of a Poth High School senior, Aiden Reed, the 2025 UIL 3A State Shot Put champion. After earning silver at last year's championship, Aiden returned with determination and achieved gold to close out his senior season. During the State meet, Aiden sat in second place until his third attempt. A powerful throw secured him the gold medal and broke his own school record. Aiden is a passionate and driven role model for young athletes. His dedication and perseverance reflect the spirit of Poth and the strength of south Texas. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Aiden and can't wait to see what he accomplishes next.

Ms. De La CRUZ

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman from Indiana for yielding her time. Today, Mr. Speaker, I rise with a heavy heart. We should not have to debate this legislation this evening. This legislation is the result of a horrific decision to assassinate a man of faith, a husband, a father, and a friend, Charlie Kirk. My heart aches for his wife, Erika, and their two beautiful children, his loved ones, and all those who looked up to him, including my own two kids. They looked up to Charlie as well. My prayers are with his family and the entire Turning Point community, who lost a leader and a friend. Charlie was taken from us in a cowardly act while exercising our most sacred American right, the right to free speech. He was sharing his values with young people on campus, inspiring them and debating them at a university, a university that should be a safe place where ideas should be debated, not silenced. I am absolutely heartbroken over this evil act. I stand with many of my fellow Americans today mourning this deep, deep loss. I encourage my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this rule and the passage of the resolution to condemn the attack and honor the life of Charlie Kirk. Mr. Speaker, may God bless the Kirk family and the entire Nation that is mourning this deep loss.

Ms. De La CRUZ

Ms. De La CRUZ. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of former Seguin mayor, Mrs. Betty Ann Matthies. Born and raised in Guadalupe County, Mrs. Matthies graduated from Seguin High School in 1953 and went on to become a registered nurse. After marrying her beloved husband, ``Pokey,'' she returned to Seguin to begin her 42-year career helping shape and grow what is now Guadalupe Regional Medical Center. Throughout the years, Mrs. Matthies rose through the ranks, holding to her guiding principle: Always do what is best for the patient. Following her work in healthcare, she carried her passion for service with the Seguin City Council and her work as mayor, always doing what is best for the community. Whether as a leader, a mother, or a friend, she encouraged everyone to pursue their passions and live life to the fullest. Her inspiring legacy and service will always be remembered. Recognizing Sabrina Walker-Hernandez

Ms. De La CRUZ

Ms. De La CRUZ. Madam Speaker, today I rise to celebrate Mr. Henry Joseph Kolinek, Jr.'s 100th birthday on July 28. Born in 1925 in Gruene, Texas, Mr. Kolinek graduated from Kenedy High School before attending Texas A&M. After arriving to A&M, he was drafted into the Army Air Corps and served as a staff sergeant during World War II. He flew 35 combat missions as a tail gunner and courageously protected his fellow soldiers. After his service, Mr. Kolinek returned to Texas A&M and earned a degree in agricultural economics. He worked 15 years at Union Carbide before returning to his hometown to join First-Nichols National Bank. His dedication to the bank for over 37 years carried him from vice president to president, and finally, to chairman of the board. He retired at the young age of 80. Today, Mr. Kolinek remains active in his community and church, serving as a Rotarian and a member of the city council, member of the chamber of commerce, and sits on the Karnes County Airport board, as well. On his leisure time he is often found driving the tractor on his ranch. He is a very proud father, grandfather, and a great-grandfather, as well. Happy 100th birthday to Mr. Kolinek. I thank him for his service to our great Nation and to his beautiful community. May God bless him and his family. Happy birthday.

Ms. De La CRUZ

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the brave service of McAllen Police Officer Ismael Garcia during the horrific attack on the McAllen Border Patrol facility last week. When an active shooter opened fire, Officer Garcia did not hesitate to jump into action. He willingly put himself in harm's way to protect his brothers and sisters in blue and green. In the face of danger, he displayed valor, sacrifice, and selflessness. When I visited him in recovery, he expressed pride in taking the bullet to protect others. Officer Garcia served our Nation for 4 years in the Marine Corps, earning the Combat Action Ribbon for his bravery. For nearly a decade since, he has continued to answer the call of duty as a McAllen police officer, and we wish him a speedy recovery. May God bless Officer Garcia, our law enforcement, first responders, and the Border Patrol. I thank Officer Garcia for his bravery and courage. Thanking Dr. James C. Lee

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize Dr. James C. Lee of Seguin for his lifetime of service and dedication to the well- being of his fellow Texans. Originally born in Houston, Dr. Lee made Seguin his home in the late 1970s. For nearly three decades, he cared for patients of all ages and served as a founding member, treasurer, and finance chair of the Guadalupe Regional Medical Foundation. Mr. Speaker, he served on the medical center's governing board as chairman and on the MHMR board, helping those with disabilities and mental health needs access support. Beloved by both patients and staff, Dr. Lee's presence will be dearly missed. His work to help community members access their healthcare will live on. Outside of his work in the medical field, he was a devout Catholic, president of the Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce, a 50-year member of the Knights of Columbus, and a 30-year member of the Rotary Club of Seguin. Dr. Lee's legacy is remembered by his wife, Janice; his 4 daughters, Crystal, Cynthia, Catherine, and Carol; and his 10 grandchildren.

Ms. DE LA CRUZ

Ms. DE LA CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Palmhurst Police Department for 20 years of service and dedication to public safety. Since 2005, the department's officers and telecommunicators have gone above and beyond the call of duty. They have received recognition for their Mothers Against Drunk Driving efforts, completed advanced rapid response and active-shooter training, and worked hand in hand with local, State, and Federal agencies. Their services extend beyond law enforcement and public safety. The Palmhurst Police Department is also dedicated to giving back to the community by hosting Coffee with a Cop and other events, such as organizing toy drives in partnership with the local schools and bringing neighborhoods together through their annual National Night Out. Mr. Speaker, for 20 years, they have not only protected the safety of Palmhurst but they have also brought Texans together. I thank them for their tireless work and dedication and congratulate them on 20 years of exceptional service to the people of Palmhurst and the great State of Texas.

Ms. De la CRUZ

Ms. De la CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate McAllen High School Mariachi Oro for winning their eighth Texas Association of Mariachi Educators State Championship and tenth consecutive UIL State Mariachi Festival Division 1 Sweepstakes. At the start of this year, many of the musicians were brand new to the team, and they were seen as the underdogs to the competition. Through hard work, through dedication, and daily practices, they worked together to secure these highly competitive titles. Their vibrant performances capture the spirit of Tejano music and continues to impress audiences nationwide. I am honored to have the students and directors here today to share the culture and the music of the Rio Grande Valley. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the Mariachi Oro. Their community is so proud of their hard work, their talent, and their dedication.

Ms. De La CRUZ

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the director of the McAllen Public Library, Kate Horan, on receiving the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award from the Texas Library Association, the highest honor a library professional can receive in the great State of Texas. This recognition is a testament to Kate's leadership, mentorship, and impact. Since moving to McAllen 20 years ago, Kate has been instrumental in transforming the library into what it is today. She took a vacant big-box store and grew it into the largest single-floor library in the United States. She instituted award-winning programs like the South Texas Book Festival, championed bilingual initiatives, and expanded library resources. Kate has made the library more than just books. The McAllen Public Library hosts programs vital to our community, such as providing free lunches for students and job fairs to help connect south Texans with new employment opportunities. Kate's dedication to McAllen and the surrounding area is inspiring. We are grateful for her leadership and for always putting our community first. I congratulate her on this well-deserved honor.

Ms. De La Cruz

Ms. De La Cruz. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to honor the Sisters Boutique & Gifts, Inc. in Floresville, Texas, as the SBA Family-Owned Business of the Year for the San Antonio District. Thirty-five years ago, Sisters was founded by two sisters, Annette and Arlene. What started as a small town shop has grown into a successful small business with multiple locations in Floresville's downtown district, run by three generations of women and fueled by passion. Today, their boutique and children's store is run by Annette's daughters, Stacy and her daughter, Katie. They are dedicated to creating a space where south Texas women feel empowered, celebrated, and inspired. They equally give back to Floresville by sponsoring youth sports teams, school fundraisers, and organizing charity fashion shows and events. We are fortunate to have the incredible small businesses run by passionate owners here in deep south Texas. I congratulate Sisters on 35 years and thank them for supporting Floresville. We look forward to seeing your business continue to thrive for years to come. Honoring the Brave Officers of the McAllen Police Department

Ms. De La Cruz. Mr. Speaker, today, during National Police Week, I rise in honor of the law enforcement officers who have gone above and beyond to protect our families and communities. They have stood as protectors and always answered the call without hesitation. This week, with heavy hearts, we honor the brave officers of the McAllen Police Department in south Texas who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Their courage, dedication, and commitment to their duty reminds us of what it means to serve. They wore the badge not for praise but to make a difference, and they did so every single day. Though they are no longer with us, their legacy lives on. Today, we honor their lives and dedication to south Texas. May their names never be forgotten: Officer Federico Saenz, end of watch, March 26, 1933; Officer Rosalin Suarez, Jr., end of watch, May 19, 1981; Officer Reynaldo Lopez, end of watch, July 10, 1993; Officer Edelmiro Garza, Jr., end of watch, July 11, 2020; Officer Ismael Z. Chavez, end of watch, July 11, 2020. Please join me in praying for our fallen officers and their loved ones. Their service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Ms. De La CRUZ

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Border Patrol Agent Hector Moreno, Jr., for his 27 years of service. Born and raised in McAllen, Texas, Mr. Hector Moreno, Jr., pursued a career of selfless service to our community. He joined the Border Patrol in 1997 and, for nearly three decades, set a high standard for his fellow agents by upholding their core values: service to country, integrity, and vigilance. During Mr. Moreno's tenure, he successfully led specialized operations in the Rio Grande Valley to combat transnational crime and tackle illicit drug trafficking at our southern border. I had the opportunity to join Mr. Moreno in south Texas to participate in a ride-along, hear from Border Patrol agents, and experience their day-to-day assignments to protect our communities. Last summer, Mr. Moreno retired as the division chief for the Rio Grande Valley Sector. We are grateful for his honorable service and exemplary leadership to his fellow agents and our community. In his retirement, he continues to serve others as a criminal justice teacher at Nikki Rowe High School and leads the student criminal justice club in McAllen. Mr. Speaker, once again, I thank Mr. Moreno for his selfless service, and I congratulate him on his well-deserved retirement. Honoring Small Business of the Month Matt's Building Materials

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Matt's Building Materials as Texas' 15th District's Small Business of the Month. In the wake of Hurricane Beulah in 1967, Matt's Building Materials, then known as Valley Cash & Carry Building Materials, was founded to help the community rebuild from the severe damage the hurricane caused in the Rio Grande Valley. Several years later, Ira Matt took over the company and brought Danny Smith on board to manage their various locations. At the time, Matt's was the only lumberyard and building material store to cater to the Hispanic community. Challenges were brought on throughout the decades, but the team at Matt's always stayed true to their values and dedication to faith, family, and service. Four generations of Matt's have operated the business, and today, the business is run by Danny's son, Jeremy, alongside his brothers. Their team goes above and beyond to help south Texans across our communities build and rebuild homes. By providing high-quality service and building materials, the family-owned small business has become an integral part of our south Texas community. In 2022, disaster struck when their flagship location in Pharr caught fire. Their physical store was lost, but their commitment to community was strong. Through unwavering faith and teamwork, their service to the community was able to resume as the team rebuilt their Pharr location. Today, their commitment to community lives on. Following the devastating flooding in south Texas earlier this year, the team immediately launched a flood relief program to help those who are rebuilding from the flood damage, just like they did over 50 years ago. Through faith and hard work, no challenge is impossible to overcome, and we are so grateful to have businesses like theirs in south Texas. Mr. Speaker, I thank the team at Matt's for all they do for our community, for south Texas, and for our State.

Ms. De La CRUZ

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to give a heartfelt welcome to Pastor Eli Lara of McAllen, Texas, as our guest chaplain this morning. It is a special honor to introduce not only a respected pastor from my community but also a mentor and a friend. Pastor Lara was raised in a family of ministers and always had a desire to serve others through faith, even from a very young age. He began his ministry in Florida before returning to south Texas to study theology. Following his studies, the Lord called him to begin a small Bible study, which over the years grew into New Life Family Church, where he now serves as the lead pastor. Pastor Lara is a true man of faith and a leader who has inspired many. Through his preaching at schools, conferences, and camps nationwide, he has impacted countless lives while leading them to Christ. Mr. Speaker, I thank Pastor Lara for continuing to bless our lives. We are so blessed to have him open today's session in prayer.

Ms. De La CRUZ

Ms. De La CRUZ. Madam Speaker, I rise today to share a huge win for Texas agriculture. Recently, USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins joined me in south Texas to announce the deployment of $280 million in economic relief that I secured for our Texas farmers. Farmers and ranchers in the Rio Grande Valley have been struggling for way too long. Mexico's refusal to comply with the 1944 Water Treaty, coupled with drought conditions, has devastated south Texas agriculture. Last year, the last sugar mill in Texas closed, leaving just two regions with the ability to produce sugar. After hearing from south Texas farmers and ranchers, citrus could be next, and this economic relief is absolutely critical to sustaining their businesses. Any impact on Texas agriculture, one of the largest agricultural States, will affect the entire country through severe supply chain disruptions and higher grocery prices for American families. For 4 years, the Biden administration failed to hold the Mexican Government accountable and secure the water that Texas farmers desperately needed. With President Trump in office, I am now optimistic that we will win the war for water. Their decision to deploy the critical aid demonstrates the administration's commitment to safeguarding the backbone of our Nation's economy: agriculture. In addition to the emergency aid, the Trump administration has put its foot down. The State Department is holding the Mexican Government accountable by blocking Mexico's nontreaty request for water from the Colorado River. This is a major win in prioritizing our farmers and ranchers, and it is encouraging to have the support of President Trump in this fight. This is just the beginning of the war for water. I will continue to work to ensure Mexico's compliance with the treaty and deliver the much-needed water to south Texas. Charlie Willmann Celebrates 100 Years

Ms. De La CRUZ. Madam Speaker, today I rise to celebrate Texas U.S. Navy veteran Mr. Charlie Willmann's 100th birthday. Born on March 31, 1925, in Seguin, Texas, Mr. Willmann's roots have run deep in our great State of Texas, from growing up on a farm, graduating from Seguin High School, to attending Texas A&M to study agriculture education. His commitment to service took him into the U.S. Navy during World War II, where he not only selflessly served his country but also met the love of his life, Patricia. Following his service, Mr. Willmann finished his degree and worked for Sears, Roebuck before returning to his roots. In Seguin, he managed the family farm he grew up on and raised his family: three children, five grandchildren, and now five great-grandchildren. His dedication to work, whether raising cattle or cultivating award- winning pecans, embodies his unwavering commitment to doing things right. Mr. Willmann's influence extends far beyond his family. He served his community on numerous boards, including Texas Farm Bureau and in his role as the county commissioner. I thank Mr. Willmann for all of his work in our community in this great country we live in. Today, we celebrate a birthday party, an incredible century of life. Let us congratulate Charlie on this wonderful milestone. Here is to Charlie, 100 years strong and still inspiring us all. We wish him a happy birthday and God bless him.

Ms. De La CRUZ

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material.

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today alongside my friends and colleagues in celebration of Women's History Month. This month, I have reflected on the contributions of the American female leaders who have made our Nation what it is today: a land of opportunity for all. I am proud to be the first Hispanic Republican woman to represent the great State of Texas for a full term. It is because of strong women who have paved the way and never took no for an answer that I can serve in this institution and fight for my community of south Texas. In February, lawmakers from both sides of the aisle came together to support an initiative that will create a legacy for American women, the bipartisan Smithsonian American Women's History Act. This important legislation, which I helped introduce alongside bipartisan Women's Caucus Republican Vice Cochair Nicole Malliotakis, will designate land on the National Mall for the Smithsonian American Women's History Museum. By creating a museum in our Nation's Capital, we are honoring and preserving the incredible contributions of American women whose stories of strength, resilience, and innovation have shaped the fabric of our Nation's history. Trailblazing women deserve a dedicated space of recognition and reference: women like Susan B. Anthony, a pioneer and leader in women's suffrage; Harriet Tubman, the first American woman to run an underground railroad to help slaves reach freedom; Sojourner Truth, a trailblazer in the antislavery movement and advocate for women's rights; and Amelia Earhart, the first woman to bravely fly solo across the Atlantic. We cannot forget our beautiful Selena Quintanilla, a south Texas icon, Grammy-winning singer, and the queen of Tejano music, who shattered glass ceilings and elevated the Tejano genre to the mainstream media. Today marks exactly 30 years since her tragic death, and we honor her passion for music and the lasting impression she has left on our Hispanic culture. Each of their stories have opened the door to opportunities that once seemed unattainable and have inspired millions. We cannot let their stories be forgotten. By passing this critical legislation, we are giving the museum its rightful place on the National Mall and allowing generations of Americans and visitors from across the world to immerse themselves in the often untold stories of the women who paved the way for many, like me, to achieve the American dream. I encourage all of my colleagues from both sides of the aisle to support this important bill. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from Ohio (Mrs. Sykes).

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from New York (Ms. Malliotakis).

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Chu).

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from Florida (Mrs. Cammack).

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from North Carolina (Ms. Adams).

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from Utah (Ms. Maloy).

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.