Vicente Gonzalez

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Santa Rosa High School Warrior Grillers for winning the Third Annual La Feria Independent School District (ISD) BBQ Cook- Off, earning the title of Grand Champion in their very first competition. This remarkable achievement reflects the Valley's deep- rooted tradition of community, culture, and culinary excellence. What began just three years ago as a small local contest has grown into a cherished Rio Grande Valley tradition, bringing together 24 teams of talented young cooks, educators, and families from across South Texas. Competitions like these do more than celebrate great barbecue, they strengthen community ties, honor cultural heritage, and teach students lasting lessons in teamwork, creativity, and pride in where they come from. I want to recognize La Feria ISD Agricultural Science Teacher Mr. Robert Salazar for his leadership in launching this event, and all the educators and mentors who help students develop valuable life skills through barbecue, from collaboration and confidence to craftsmanship and commitment. I congratulate again all the teams who fired up their pits, competed in good spirit, and brought home some serious Valley flavor. I am proud to honor a tradition that is uniquely Texan and deeply rooted in the heart of our community.

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 150th anniversary of the Brownsville Fire Department. Their unwavering service to our community stands as a testament to the courage, dedication, and spirit of public service that defines South Texas. Throughout their 150 years of service, the Brownsville Fire Department has repeatedly proven its devotion to the city of Brownsville and to South Texas. They play a critical role in protecting our community, from extinguishing fires to saving lives in the face of a natural disaster. Not only do they provide an essential service to our community, they also fill a role few others are brave enough to perform. I am proud to represent such courageous individuals, and I look forward to seeing their legacy of dedication and heroism continue for generations to come. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of my grateful constituents in South Texas, I congratulate the Brownsville Fire Department and all the brave men and women who have contributed to its mission over the past century and a half.

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life of a great South Texan, Betty Bentsen Winn, who passed away on January 25, 2025. I include in the Record her obituary: Betty Bentsen Winn, a Valley native, spent her life enjoying a rich cultural tapestry. She gave of herself, and her homeland gave back many times over. She was born in Mission, Texas to the parents of Lloyd and Edna Ruth ``Dolly'' Bentsen on November 22nd, 1931. Her three older brothers, Lloyd, Donald and Kenneth, completed her family circle. She attended elementary school in Mission and graduated from McAllen High School as salutatorian and Lady of the Mirror where her children and grandson also graduated. She married Robert Daniel Winn after graduating from The University of Texas at Austin and proceeded to build a family of three children, Ellen Ruth, Robert Daniel, Jr., and Susan Elizabeth. Her faith and family were tantamount to all else. Betty gave her time to improve her community and church for her children and others. She was a Girl Scout leader, a Cub Scout leader, a Sunday School teacher, a Vacation Bible School volunteer and the leader of Acteens at First Baptist Church for many years. As her children grew older, her philanthropy and volunteerism expanded. Betty was a founder and board member of the Texas Committee for the National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington, D.C. and a founder and board member of the International Museum of Arts & Science in McAllen, Texas. Betty was also instrumental in bringing the Bolshoi Ballet to McAllen whilst being involved with the McAllen Performing Arts. The Easterseals Rio Grande Valley also held a special place in her heart as a volunteer and board member. She is survived by her children Robert Daniel Winn, Jr. and Susan Winn Lowry (William David Lowry, III), grandchildren Carrie Johnson Fiorito (Ted) and William David Lowry, IV (Vanessa), and great-grandchildren William David ``Liam'' Lowry, V, Lilia Ruth Fiorito, and Luke Anthony Fiorito. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents Lloyd and Edna ``Dolly'' Bentsen, her brothers and sisters-in-law Senator Lloyd Bentsen, Jr. (Beryl Ann Longino), Donald Bentsen (Nell McCarter), and Kenneth Bentsen (Mary Bates), her daughter Ellen Ruth Johnson, and former husband Robert Daniel Winn. Betty took great pride in showing people from other parts of the United States and around the world her Valley home. The burgeoning life, culture, flora and fauna never ceased to delight her and she shared that enthusiasm with multiple individuals. They all came away with an awe and new appreciation for the Southern Tip of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I wish to thank Mrs. Bentsen Winn for all she has done for South Texas.

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the extraordinary courage and service of the Brownsville Fire Department's Water Rescue Operations Team, whose selfless actions in the aftermath of devastating storms in Harlingen exemplified the highest standards of public service. In March 2025, the Rio Grande Valley experienced severe storms that unleashed over 20 inches of rain in just 48 hours. The storms caused widespread flooding and damage, forcing families from their homes and leaving communities in urgent need of help. The city of Harlingen and the surrounding areas suffered some of the worst damages, with Valley International Airport inundated and closed from March 27 to March 29, 2025. Without hesitation, the Brownsville Fire Department's Water Rescue Operations Team responded to over 70 emergency calls across Cameron County. Through swift and calculated action, these first responders carried out water rescues that saved lives and brought relief to families stranded by floodwater. The Brownsville team's bravery was a critical component in the broader network of mutual aid and collaboration among first responders across the Valley, who together demonstrated the very best of Texas solidarity in the face of disaster. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of South Texas, I wish to express our profound gratitude to the Brownsville Fire Department Water Rescue Operations Team.

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 25th anniversary of Sunshine Haven, a local hospice care center in Olmito, Texas. Throughout their 25 years, Sunshine Haven has shown true care and empathy for their patients. Their work highlights the best of South Texas--caring for the most vulnerable of our neighbors and community members. I am honored to represent such dedicated individuals who devote their time and compassion to caring for our senior citizens. The end-of-life care Sunshine Haven provides brings peace of mind to patients and their families, knowing their loved ones are cared for with dignity, comfort, and respect. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of a grateful South Texas, I congratulate Sunshine Haven and all those who have contributed to its mission over the past two and a half decades. May they continue to serve and care for our communities for many years to come.

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 60th anniversary of the Diocese of Brownsville, a community of faith that has for decades served as a spiritual home and source of strength for the people of the Rio Grande Valley. Since its founding in 1965, the Diocese of Brownsville has grown into one of the most vibrant Catholic dioceses in the nation. Through its parishes, schools, and ministries, the Diocese has nurtured the faith of its members and provided essential services to countless families across South Texas. The Diocese has long been a committed voice for justice and compassion in our region. Its leaders and parishioners have worked tirelessly to support immigrant communities, provide disaster relief, and advocate for the dignity of all people. This commitment reflects not only the teachings of faith, but also the values of service and solidarity that define the Rio Grande Valley As the Diocese marks its 60th anniversary, it does so with a proud legacy of compassion, inclusivity, and unwavering dedication to the people of South Texas. Its clergy, religious, and lay leaders have carried forward a mission rooted in faith and community, inspiring generations to service others and live lives of devotion. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of a grateful South Texas, I congratulate the Diocese of Brownsville and all those who have contributed to its mission over the past six decades. May the Diocese continue to serve, inspire, and strengthen our communities for many years to come.

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the outstanding service of the Brownsville Police Department during the historic flooding that struck South Texas earlier this year. In just two days, our community in South Texas was hit with nearly a year's worth of rainfall. The city of Harlingen was hit especially hard, receiving over twenty inches of rain, which left vehicles stranded, streets flooded, and many residents without power or access to food. In response to this natural disaster, the Brownsville Police Department answered the call for help. Partnering with The Salvation Army, they served over 600 hot meals to families in need. Their swift action and compassion provided critical relief to families struggling in the aftermath of the storm. Mr. Speaker, this cross-city partnership is a powerful reminder of our region's resilience and commitment to service. When disaster struck, the Brownsville Police Department stepped up when our community needed them the most, exemplifying the highest standards of service and solidarity. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of a grateful South Texas, I am proud to honor the brave men and women of the Brownsville Police Department for their exemplary heroism during a devastating flood.

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the City of Brownsville's Engineering and Public Works Department for their exemplary service following the severe storms that struck Cameron County and devastated neighborhoods in Harlingen and surrounding areas last spring. In March of this year, our region received more than 20 inches of heavy rainfall, which caused widespread flooding, damaged infrastructure, and left countless families in need of urgent support. During this crisis, the Brownsville Engineering and Public Works Department deployed staff, equipment, and expertise to assist flood- impacted communities. Their crews worked tirelessly, operating pumps, heavy machinery, and other resources to help remove water from our streets and restore accessibility for residents. Their work provided not only critical relief, but also a sense of hope to our neighbors in Harlingen. This effort was not theirs alone. The Brownsville Police Department served more than 600 hot meals to affected families at Laureles County Park. Meanwhile the Brownsville Fire Department stood alongside residents to safeguard their health and safety. Together, these coordinated actions reflect the best of who we are in South Texas--neighbors helping neighbors, united through compassion and service. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of South Texas, I wish to extend my deepest gratitude to the Brownsville Engineering and Public Works Department, along with all the city staff who answered the call to serve. Their dedication and solidarity in times of hardship embody the very spirit of community that makes the Rio Grande Valley strong.

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to congratulate and recognize Sidewinder of Texas, a legendary band from Los Fresnos, for bringing joy and pride to South Texas for over four decades. Their music embodies the Valley's resilience, creativity, and pride, reminding us that ``time flies when you're having fun.'' Since its founding in 1984, Sidewinder of Texas has been a defining part of the Rio Grande Valley's music scene, blending their signature ``Texas Style Rock and Roll'' with deep community roots. Formed by David Valdez, Paul Pederson, Rey Ybarra, and Raul Garcia, they quickly earned recognition across the state and beyond with hits like Cruisin' on the Levee, Ready to Rock, Can't Take my Dreams, and My Country. Their music has reached audiences on radio, at the South by Southwest Music Festival, and through countless live performances. Beyond their musical achievements, Sidewinder of Texas has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the community. They have donated their time and talent to many charitable causes, including Toys for Tots, the Muscular Dystrophy Telethon, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and the Wounded Warrior Project. Their generosity and service reflect the spirit of unity and compassion that defines the people of Los Fresnos and the Rio Grande Valley. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the people of South Texas, I join the City of Los Fresnos in honoring Sidewinder of Texas for their outstanding contributions to music, their dedication to service, and their commitment to representing our community with heart and pride.

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride and honor that I rise today to recognize the 175th anniversary of the First United Church of Brownsville, a cornerstone of faith, fellowship, and service in the Rio Grande Valley. For nearly two centuries, this congregation has stood as a beacon of spiritual strength and community engagement, guiding generations of Brownsville. Founded in 1850 by the Reverend Nehemiah Cravens, who traveled from Alabama on horseback, the First Methodist Church began its mission of service to the people of Brownsville, Texas. Over the decades, the church has grown and adapted, relocating several times before establishing its current home on Boca Chica Boulevard in 1974. Through every chapter of its history, the church has remained committed to serving God and neighbor. Among its many contributions, the church founded the Good Neighbor Settlement House in the early 1950s, a ministry that provides meals, shelter, and care to the homeless and migrant populations of Brownsville. This enduring service reflects the congregation's deep commitment to compassion toward the community. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of a grateful South Texas, I congratulate the First United Methodist Church of Brownsville on its 175th anniversary. I commend the church's clergy and all members past and present for their enduring devotion to faith and community. May their light continue to shine brightly for generations to come.

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to speak on the achievements of three outstanding student artists from the Rio Grande Valley: Azeneth Corrales of Harlingen High School; Karla Rivera, a Harlingen High School South graduate now attending the University of Texas at Austin; and Madelynn Gonzalez, a St. Joseph's Academy graduate currently at Texas State University. All three students were awarded RGV Palm Award in recognition of their artistic excellence and dedication. On September 15th, these three talented young women performed at the Noche de Gala, at the 2025 Visioning Summit: Mission Possible hosted by the National Hispanic Foundation for the Arts. The Noche de Gala is a closing celebration of the 2025 Visioning Summit and a true celebration of Latino contributions to culture and the arts. Achievements like theirs provide a valuable opportunity to recognize talents present in the Rio Grande Valley. I am delighted to represent such creative and intelligent students who make our community proud as they excel with their artistic pursuits. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of a proud community, I wish to honor Azeneth Corrales, Karla Rivera, and Madelynn Gonzalez for their dedication and achievements.

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the extraordinary courage and service of the Brownsville Fire Department's Water Rescue Operations Team, whose selfless actions in the aftermath of devastating storms in Harlingen exemplified the highest standards of public service. In March 2025, the Rio Grande Valley experienced severe storms that unleashed over 20 inches of rain in just 48 hours. The storms caused widespread flooding and damage, forcing families from their homes and leaving communities in urgent need of help. The city of Harlingen and the surrounding areas suffered some of the worst damages, with Valley International Airport inundated and closed from March 27 to March 29. Without hesitation, the Brownsville Fire Department's Water Rescue Operations Team responded to over 70 emergency calls across Cameron County. Through swift and calculated action, these first responders carried out water rescues that saved lives and brought relief to families stranded by floodwater. The Brownsville team's bravery was a critical component in the broader network of mutual aid and collaboration among first responders across the Valley, who together demonstrated the very best of Texas solidarity in the face of disaster. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of South Texas, I wish to express our profound gratitude to the Brownsville Fire Department Water Rescue Operations Team.

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with immense pride to recognize Dalilah Garcia, President of FemCity Brownsville, of a women empowerment organization. Ms. Garcia was recently honored as one of twelve 2025 Women of Distinction by the Texas Association of Mexican American Chambers of Commerce (TAMACC) for her unstoppable resilience, dedication to female empowerment, and rich cultural heritage. Dalilah Garcia is an example of what it means to build community, leadership, and foster inclusivity. She boasts over five years of experience in public relations, business, organizational development, and project management. Prior to her role as President of FemCity Brownsville, Ms. Garcia served as a Census Media Specialist at the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA). After her work with the EDA, she assumed her role as President of FemCity Brownsville in December of 2017. In her current role, she collaborates and organizes monthly gatherings, workshops, and business support services for women in our community hoping to become entrepreneurs and success stories in their own right. In addition to her professional endeavors, Ms. Garcia is a recipient of the 2025 Estrella de Tejas Award. This award is presented to outstanding Hispanic women who have made great contributions to their local communities and serve as role models for other women. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of South Texas, I wish to honor Dalilah Garcia for her commitment to women empowerment and our community. Her advocacy has changed the landscape of our region, and her story is only just beginning.

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise today to speak on the passing of Richard ``Dick'' Ervin Messbarger. Mr. Messbarger was an exemplary Texan and a pillar of the Kingsville community. Mr. Messbarger received his bachelor's degree in English Language and Literature from St. Mary's University and master's degree from Texas A&I University, now Texas A&M University Kingsville. His commitment to improving his community will always be remembered. As a proud Navy veteran and the 38th recipient of the Naval Aviation Honorary Wings of Gold, Mr. Messbarger was the founder and key member of the Naval Air Station (NAS) Kingsville Task Force. His devotion to NAS Kingsville helped alleviate many of the concerns that made the base vulnerable to possible closure and ensure that this vital economic engine for Kingsville remained intact. His exemplary efforts have ensured that our military community in Kingsville is up to the highest standards of excellence. Mr. Messbarger was also the former president of the Kingsville Chapter of the Navy League, the former Navy League National Director and, the Executive Director of the Greater Kingsville Economic Development Council (EDC) for 32 years. Mr. Messbarger was a proud recipient of the Sam Walton Business Leader Award. His exemplary work was further recognized when he received the Kingsville Citizen of the Year award in 2008. In 2013, he was the recipient of the Otis West Lifetime Service Award by the Kingsville Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of a grateful South Texas, I wish to honor the life of Mr. Richard ``Dick'' Ervin Messbarger.

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to recognize the inspiring young women from the West Brownsville Little League's Senior Team, aged 15-16, for their astonishing achievement in finishing as runner-up as they competed for a spot in the 2025 Little League World Series. Representing our community to the nation is an unseen achievement in the past 73 years of the team's history in Brownsville. Competing in softball takes dexterity and discipline, but most importantly, sacrifice. A tremendous commitment has been made by the participants and their families as they worked towards this exciting goal. They are showing the country the hard work and team spirit that South Texans have always represented. These young women have made their community, families, coaches and friends immensely proud, and I encourage them to continue supporting each other in the games ahead. But most importantly, I encourage them to cherish every moment as they are making history in The Rio Grande Valley. Rest assured I am cheering for you every step of the way. Mr. Speaker, our West Brownsville Little League Senior Softball Team has made all of us immensely proud.

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, due to unforeseen circumstances, I was not present to vote on Roll Call No. 207. Had I been present, I would have voted NO on Roll Call No. 207. I support the Israeli Cooperative Programs as they are essential for Israel to defend itself and protect U.S. interests.

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of every senior citizen in Texas and across America. Unfortunately, it is not with celebration, but with outrage and disgust. I am here to shed continued light to the damage this institution has caused seniors by the recent passage of this big, beautiful bill, which was anything but. It is the most significant betrayal of our senior citizens yet, a betrayal of our values and our Nation's promise. Let's not be fooled by the branding. This bill wasn't beautiful. It was brutal. It slashed Medicare funding under the guise of reform. It wrapped its cruelty in buzz words like ``efficiency,'' ``modernization,'' and ``fiscal responsibility.'' However, beneath the surface, it is a cold and calculated attempt to strip millions of Americans of the dignity they have earned over a lifetime of work. This bill tells our parents and grandparents: Thank you for building this country, now go fend for yourself. It says to the most vulnerable: Healthcare is a luxury in this country, not a right. They dare to call that beautiful. Let's be clear: Medicare is not a handout. It is a sacred promise paid for by workers every day of their entire lives, and it is a lifeline for seniors choosing between food and prescriptions, for families relying on home healthcare, for Americans who believe that aging should not come with abandonment. Cutting Medicare was not fiscally responsible. It was a moral failure. All of this was done at the behest of their master, their master who wants tax breaks for the ultra-wealthy billionaires and multinational corporations, with empty slogans for the rest of Americans. It sacrificed the well-being of American retirees on the altar of political theater. In fact, they were so diabolical about it that they purposely set a start date for these policies, December 2026, right after midterm elections, trying to poke seniors' eyes. They want to fool voting senior citizens by making these painful policies kick in right after the November elections. They are not fooling anyone. Americans are smarter than this. We need healthcare policies that uplift older Americans, not undermine them; that care for them, not cast them aside; that honor our social contract to American senior citizens. To those who voted for this bill, don't call it beautiful. Own what it is: a betrayal to older Americans who helped build this country. To every senior who is watching today, to every caregiver, to every grandchild and child caring for an older American, to every worker in Texas and across this great Nation who hopes to retire with peace and dignity: We see you. We hear you, and we will not stop fighting.

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Mr. Richard Messbarger for his 32 years of invaluable service to the Greater Kingsville Economic Development Council (EDC). Mr. Messbarger has displayed true dedication to his community. As an exemplary Texan. Mr. Messbarger received his bachelor's degree in English Language and Literature from St. Mary's University and master's degree from Texas A&I University Kingsville. Since then, he has dedicated his life to public service and ensuring the development of our community. A veteran of the United States Navy, he became the 38th recipient of Naval Aviation Honorary Wings of Gold for his contribution to his community. As the founder and key member of the Naval Air Station (NAS) Kingsville Task Force, his commitment to his community has alleviated many concerns which made NAS Kingsville vulnerable to Base closures. His exemplary efforts have ensured that our military community in Kingsville is up to the highest standards of excellence. Mr. Messbarger is also the former president of the Kingsville Chapter of Navy League and the former Navy League National Director. Mr. Messbarger is a proud recipient of the Sam Walton Business Leader Award. His exemplary work was further recognized when he received the Kingsville Citizen of the Year award in 2008. In 2013, he was the recipient of the Otis West Lifetime Service Award by the Kingsville Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Speaker, I wish to thank Mr. Messbarger for his dedication, passion, service to our country and his many years of public service.

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Kingsville Independent School District (ISD) Superintendent, Dr. Cissy Reynolds-Perez on her retirement from 38 years of public service. Dr. Reynolds-Perez is a proud graduate of Texas A&M University- Kingsville where she earned a bachelor's degree in education with a minor in English. She later went on to earn a Doctoral Degree in Educational Leadership from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. Dr. Reynolds-Perez has made incredible contributions to our state's education system, having served as principal for multiple schools and Assistant Superintendent of West Oso ISD. During her tenure as an administrator, Dr. Reynolds-Perez established herself as a leader in school safety. In 2018, Governor Greg Abbott appointed her to serve on the Texas School Safety Center Board of Directors for two terms. Later she was selected to sit on Texas House Chairman Todd Hunter's Suicide Prevention Task Force, where she helped spearhead the passage of HB 3980 and HCR 137, monumental suicide prevention legislation In August of 2020, in the midst of the COVID-19 Pandemic, Dr. Reynolds-Perez was appointed as the Superintendent in her hometown of Kingsville, Texas. Her dedication to education and public service is unmatched, and I thank her for her tremendous work in educating the future generations of South Texans. Mr. Speaker. I wish to thank Dr. Reynolds-Perez for her 38 years of public service and congratulate her on her retirement.

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I was unable to attend votes due to unforeseen flight delays. Due to my absence, I was not present to vote on Roll Call No. 172, Roll Call No. 173, and Roll Call No. 174. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 172. I support safeguarding the economy and the national security interests of the United States. Global trade must be protected against the rising threat of piracy. Likewise, had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 173. I support expanding the accredited investor eligibility requirements to include individuals with qualifying education and job experience to participate in private investment offerings. Moreover, had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 174. I support initiatives that promote capital-raising opportunities for underserved small businesses and businesses in rural areas.

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise today to speak on the tragic and untimely passing of Seaman Angelina Petra Resendiz. I wish to honor her for her invaluable service to our great country. Seaman Resendiz displayed the highest levels of duty and courage in the line of duty. Her service is representative of the many brave men and women who volunteer to serve their country. This exemplary young woman enlisted in August 2023 as a culinary specialist in the United States Navy. During this time, she performed her duties admirably and to the best of her abilities. Unfortunately, Seaman Resendiz was unable to finish her service to our country due to her tragic passing. Nobody should ever be targeted or harmed by their peers or superiors. We owe an enormous debt to our brave service members, and the least we, as Members of Congress, can do is ensure that they are protected regardless of gender, ethnicity, or where they are stationed. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of a grateful Nation, I wish to honor Seaman Resendiz for her service and sacrifice. She was taken from us too soon and I stand in solidarity with her family and so many others in their pursuit of justice.

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Chief Petty Officer Eric Uhr on his well-deserved retirement from the Coast Guard after 20 years of valiant service. I am honored to represent brave individuals like Chief Petty Officer Uhr for their hard work and dedication to our great Nation. Chief Uhr enlisted in the United States Coast Guard (USCG) on June 27, 2005, and completed basic training at USCG Training Center Cape May in New Jersey. After his enlistment, he began his military career as a deck seaman aboard the USCG Edisto in San Diego, California, before being promoted to Officer in Charge of USCG Aids to the Navigation Team in South Padre Island, Texas. Additionally, Uhr also served as the Executive Petty Officer of this team and the first lieutenant of the USCG Station Port Aransas, Texas. Chief Uhr has exemplified the valor and dignity in the United States Coast Guard. His dedication to his county has not gone unnoticed, and I wish him a long and happy retirement with his family, his wife and two children. Mr. Speaker, I wish to congratulate Chief Petty Officer Uhr on his retirement and honor his 20 years of service to our Nation.

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Dr. Rose M.Z. Gowen for 16 noble years of public service as City Commissioner At-Large ``B'' for the City of Brownsville, Texas. Dr. Gowen was elected in 2009 and has served in office since then. In her time as City Commissioner, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to public health and improving the quality of life for all the residents of Brownsville. Dr. Gowen's dedication to promoting healthy lifestyles in our community has not gone unnoticed. Her work has led to many programs which have proven beneficial to the health and wellbeing of our community. These programs include the establishment of the Brownville Farmers' Market and the CycloBia event, which provide nutritious food and exercise through cycling, respectively. In addition, Dr. Gowen also spearheaded the RGV Challenge, an annual 12-week health initiative which has encouraged massive community change in health and wellness. This in addition to her leadership in advocating for sustainable infrastructure such as the Carcara Trails, which is nearly 430 miles of outdoor trails connecting communities across South Texas. All these projects highlight Dr. Gowen's loyal commitment to the betterment of our community. Brownsville is lucky to have public servants who display this level of dedication and drive to create positive change in our region. I am proud to represent communities like Brownsville and the wonderful public servants who continue to make it a better place to live. Mr. Speaker, I wish to congratulate Dr. Rose Gowen for celebrating 16 years of public service.

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate the historic opening of the new Hidalgo County Courthouse in Edinburg, Texas. I am proud to announce that this new and modern courthouse will house 24 district and county courtrooms, a court of appeals and an additional six future courtrooms to accommodate and serve our growing county. This courthouse replaces its outdated predecessor, providing Hidalgo County with the modern judicial space it deserves. I am honored to represent a thriving community and I am excited to see our infrastructure and local government develop alongside with our population. This new courthouse stands as a symbol of our growth and continued development in South Texas, and its design proudly reflects the culture, people, and heritage of the Rio Grande Valley. With local designs, architecture and native vegetation, this courthouse stands as a new pillar for South Texas. Mr. Speaker, I wish to congratulate Hidalgo County on this historic achievement and commemorate the opening of the New Hidalgo County Courthouse.

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas

Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Texas A&M University at Kingsville on their 100-year anniversary. As we celebrate Texas A&M University-Kingsville's 100-year legacy, we must look back at their history and achievements and continue to build upon the university's legacy of Care, Integrity, Pride, Innovation, and Excellence. On February 24, 1917, the State of Texas passed Bill No. 72, to establish a teacher training institution in South Texas. This institution would go on to be called the South Texas Teachers College. Eventually, in 1929, the school would once again change its name to the Texas School of Art and Industries. The Texas School of Art and Industries would later grow and expand to provide courses in agriculture and engineering. In 1941, the school briefly transitioned to a wartime curriculum, teaching national defense courses to support with the war effort. Two decades later it would become officially known as Texas A&I University. In March of 1972, Texas A&I was selected as one of the first schools in the country to offer ROTC for women, to eventually be commissioned into the U.S. Army as Second Lieutenants. In 1975, Texas A&I would be the first university to offer a doctoral degree in bilingual studies. In 1989, Texas A&I University joined Texas A&M University System, one of the largest systems of higher education in the country. The list of achievements is endless, from the establishment of a groundbreaking serpentarium and the National Natural Toxins Center to the Opening of the Music Education Complex. Throughout its entire history, one thing remains certain, since its inception in 1917, Texas A&M-Kingsville (TAMUK) has played a vital role in shaping the minds of some of our region's leading academics and professionals. Through their dedication to higher education, they have provided South Texas with an exceptional opportunity to succeed. Thereby, not only nurturing academic success but also molding the minds of the next generation of South Texans. Mr. Speaker, I wish to thank Texas A&M University at Kingsville for their contributions to our region and congratulate them on this remarkable milestone.