Carlos Gimenez

Mr. GIMENEZ

Mr. GIMENEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Jose L. Dotres, superintendent of Miami-Dade Public Schools, following a distinguished career dedicated to education and public service. Dr. Dotres arrived in Miami at 5 years old as an immigrant. He graduated from Miami-Dade County Public Schools and ultimately dedicated his career to serving the same school community that welcomed him. Dr. Dotres has served as a teacher, reading coach, principal, district administrator, and senior leader. As superintendent, he led the third-largest school district in our Nation, serving more than 300,000 students and 34,000 employees. His accomplishments include induction into the Miami Dade College Alumni Hall of Fame, Barry University's Distinguished Alumni Award, and service as president of the Florida Association of District Superintendents. As Dr. Dotres begins this new chapter, I congratulate him on his retirement and thank him for his decades of service to the students, teachers, and families of Miami-Dade County. Mr. Speaker, I wish him and his family all the best.

Mr. GIMENEZ

Mr. GIMENEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Interamerican Bank as it celebrates 50 years of service to South Florida. Founded in Miami-Dade County on September 10, 1976, by Agustin C. Velasco, Interamerican Bank represents a remarkable story of faith, family, perseverance, and the American Dream. Mr. Velasco fled the communist Castro regime in 1961 with his wife, Nieves, and their two young children, Felisa and Agustin, Jr. Like so many Cuban exiles, he arrived in Miami determined to rebuild his life in freedom. He worked in factories, started his own business, and just 15 years after arriving in the United States, founded Interamerican Bank. For five decades, Interamerican Bank has remained a family-owned community bank dedicated to serving the people and businesses of South Florida. Today, the Bank operates five branches, including its Hialeah branch, which proudly celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. The legacy of Agustin C. Velasco, Sr. continues through three generations of the Velasco family. His son, Agustin Velasco, Jr., serves as President and Chief Executive Officer, while his son-in-law, Ibrahim Pacheco, has provided nearly three decades of leadership as Chairman of the Board. His granddaughters, Isis Pacheco Velasco, Christie Velasco, and Lindsie Velasco, are also helping carry this proud family tradition into the future. Interamerican Bank is more than a South Florida institution, its story embodies the promise of our great Nation: that those who flee tyranny for freedom can work hard, build something lasting, and create opportunities for generations to come. I congratulate Interamerican Bank, the Velasco family, and its entire team on 50 years of service and wishing them continued success for many years to come.

Mr. GIMENEZ

Mr. GIMENEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of my bipartisan One-Stop Pilot Program Extension Act. In south Florida, Miami International Airport is one of the busiest international gateways in the United States. Every day, millions of passengers pass through airports like Miami International Airport throughout the country. We have a responsibility to keep those passengers and our airports moving efficiently while maintaining the highest security standards. This bill does exactly that. By extending this successful pilot program, passengers arriving from trusted foreign airports can connect to their final destination without unnecessary duplicate baggage screening. Security is never compromised. Every participating airport must meet strict TSA standards. Customs and Border Protection retains full oversight, and any passenger or bag identified as a security concern receives additional inspection. This commonsense, bipartisan legislation will reduce delays, ease congestion, improve the travel experience, and strengthen our aviation system while protecting our homeland. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Garbarino for his leadership. Also, I thank the gentleman from Louisiana (Mr. Carter) for cosponsoring this legislation. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support the One-Stop Pilot Program Extension Act.

Mr. GIMENEZ

Mr. GIMENEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Michael A. Carricarte, an American of Cuban descent, decorated Army combat veteran, a proud Christopher Columbus Explorer, and one of south Florida's most generous philanthropists. Arriving in Miami from Cuba in 1948, Mr. Carricarte lived the American Dream. He proudly served as a colonel in the United States Army and Green Beret before building one of the leading healthcare and insurance organizations serving Latin America and the Caribbean. Mr. Carricarte devoted his life to his family and helping others, supporting hospitals, schools, churches, orphanages, and organizations. He mentored young people, assisted students in need, and opened doors for countless others, never seeking recognition. Mr. Carricarte believed that every blessing carried with it a responsibility to serve. He lived that principle every day through humility, leadership, and faith. I extend my deepest condolences to his children, grandchildren, and family. South Florida has lost a true giant, but his legacy of service, generosity, and love for others will endure for generations. May God bless the memory of Mike Carricarte, and may he rest in peace.

Mr. GIMENEZ

Mr. GIMENEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the grand opening of Homestead Commerce Park, a major new industrial development that represents continued economic growth, job creation, and investment in South Florida. Located in the City of Homestead, this Class A industrial park reflects the tremendous potential of our community and the growing demand for modern logistics, manufacturing, and commercial space in Miami-Dade County. Developments like Homestead Commerce Park help strengthen our local economy, create high-quality jobs for hardworking families, and attract new businesses to our region. As Homestead continues to grow, investments in infrastructure, commerce, and economic opportunities will remain critical to ensuring a prosperous future for South Miami-Dade. Homestead Commerce Park stands as an example of what can be achieved through collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to strengthening our local communities. I congratulate everyone involved in this important milestone and wish Homestead Commerce Park continued success for years to come.

Mr. GIMENEZ

Mr. GIMENEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Christ Journey Church as the congregation celebrates 100 years of faith, fellowship, and service to the South Florida community. Founded in 1926, Christ Journey Church has spent a century serving families throughout Miami-Dade County growing from 75 members to over 5,000 members through worship, discipleship, leadership development, missions, and community outreach. For generations, the church has stood as a pillar of spiritual guidance and compassion, helping strengthen the values of faith, unity, and service across our community. Christ Journey Church has distributed more than 650,000 pounds of food since 2009, helping provide an estimated 540,000 meals to families throughout South Florida. The church has also mobilized countless volunteers supporting local schools, nonprofit organizations, and families. Beyond South Florida, Christ Journey Church has led mission efforts and partnerships throughout Latin America, the Caribbean, Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and communities across the United States, reflecting its longstanding commitment to serving others. As the congregation marks this historic milestone, we recognize the pastors, leaders, members, and families whose dedication and faith helped shape the church's extraordinary legacy over the past century. Under the visionary leadership of Rev. Dr. William W. White, Christ Journey Church has continued to grow and expand its impact, recently completing a major expansion project that reaffirms its commitment to serving future generations. May Christ Journey Church continue to inspire hope, strengthen families, and serve our community for generations to come.

Mr. GIMENEZ

Mr. GIMENEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable servant of God and our South Florida community, Archbishop Thomas G. Wenski, on the 50th Anniversary of his Priestly Ordination. For five decades, Archbishop Wenski has dedicated his life to faith, service, and the defense of human dignity. Throughout his ministry, he has been a steadfast spiritual leader for the people of South Florida and a strong voice for the oppressed, especially those suffering under tyranny and persecution around the world. As Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Miami, he has guided countless families with compassion, wisdom, and unwavering faith. His commitment to serving the poor, welcoming the vulnerable, and defending freedom has left a lasting impact on our community. Archbishop Wenski's leadership has strengthened the moral fabric of South Florida and inspired generations through his humility, courage, and devotion to Christ and His Church. On behalf of Florida's 28th Congressional District, I congratulate Archbishop Thomas G. Wenski on this extraordinary milestone and thank him for fifty years of faithful service to God, the Church, and our community. May God continue to bless Archbishop Wenski and the Archdiocese of Miami.

Mr. GIMENEZ

Mr. GIMENEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the ``Canto a la Libertad'' concert and the inspiring mission it supports--the Santuario de la Virgen de la Caridad del Cobre in Santiago de Cuba. This effort, led by faithful members of our South Florida community, reflects the deep spiritual bond between the Cuban people and Our Lady of Charity, the patroness of Cuba and a symbol of hope, resilience, and freedom. At the Santuario del Cobre, Father Rogelio Dean Puerta and his team serve some of the most vulnerable, providing nourishment, care, and spiritual guidance to children, the elderly, and families in need. Despite the challenges facing the Cuban people, this sanctuary continues to stand as a beacon of faith and compassion. The ``Canto a la Libertad'' concert is a powerful act of solidarity. It brings together our exile community and supporters of freedom to provide direct assistance to those on the island who need it most, while keeping alive the call for a free and democratic Cuba. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the organizers, supporters, and all those contributing to this noble cause. Their generosity and faith are making a real difference in the lives of many. May we continue to stand with the Cuban people, support those working to alleviate suffering, and never waver in our commitment to freedom.

Mr. GIMENEZ

Mr. GIMENEZ. Mr. Speaker, I come to the floor today to honor the life of Anthony Yaniz, a proud son of Key West and a true pillar of the Florida Keys community. Tony was a former Key West commissioner and a larger-than-life figure who dedicated himself to serving others and strengthening the community that he loved. Tony's work supported important local institutions, including the Key West Veterans Memorial and the Center for Animal Welfare and Education. His commitment to his community was not just public. It was personal. He showed up for his neighbors time and time again. Anthony Yaniz leaves behind a legacy of service, passion, and love for Key West. He will be deeply missed, but his impact will live on for generations. May he rest in peace.

Mr. GIMENEZ

Mr. GIMENEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Bob Fuchs, a leader in South Florida's agricultural community and a third-generation orchid grower from Homestead, Florida, on his induction into the Dade County Farm Bureau Hall of Honor. For more than six decades, Mr. Fuchs has dedicated his life to the cultivation, preservation, and advancement of orchids, helping to elevate Miami-Dade County as a global hub for horticultural excellence. From working alongside his grandfather, Mr. Fuchs developed a deep respect for the land and a passion that would shape his life's work. Mr. Fuchs went on to build that passion into a world-renowned enterprise, R.F. Orchids, while also serving his community as an educator. His contributions to the field extend far beyond our district. Mr. Fuchs has been credited with the discovery of new orchid species in Central and South America and led the American Orchid Society as President. Mr. Fuchs' achievements have earned him widespread recognition, including induction into the Florida Agriculture Hall of Fame and international honors from leading horticultural institutions. Mr. Fuchs' story reflects the very best of South Florida, hard work, resilience, and a deep-rooted connection to the land. His lifelong contributions have strengthened our local economy, advanced agricultural science, and inspired generations of growers and conservationists.

Mr. GIMENEZ

Mr. GIMENEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 65th anniversary of the Bay of Pigs invasion and to recognize the grand opening of the Bay of Pigs Museum and Library, a powerful tribute to the bravery, sacrifice, and enduring legacy of the Cuban patriots who fought for freedom. Sixty-five years ago, in April 1961, courageous members of Brigade 2506 took up arms against a brutal Communist dictatorship in Cuba. These men, many of them young exiles, answered the call of liberty with unwavering resolve. Their heroism stands as a defining moment in the fight against tyranny in our hemisphere. The opening of the Bay of Pigs Museum and Library ensures that future generations will learn the truth about the sacrifices made by Brigade 2506 and the dangers of Communist oppression. It stands as both a place of remembrance and a call to action--a reminder that the struggle for a free Cuba is not over. As the Cuban regime continues to repress its people and deny them basic human rights, we must reaffirm our commitment to stand with the Cuban people in their pursuit of liberty. The legacy of Brigade 2506 demands nothing less. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the heroes of the Bay of Pigs and celebrating this institution that preserves their legacy. May we never forget their courage and always stand on the side of freedom.

Mr. GIMENEZ

Mr. GIMENEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today for Yom HaShoah, or Holocaust Remembrance Day. On April 13th, we joined Jewish communities across South Florida and the world to remember the six million Jews murdered during the Holocaust, to honor the survivors, and to reflect on the immense courage of those who resisted oppression. In South Florida, the Committee of the Yad Vashem USA Foundation hosted a Community-Wide Yom HaShoah Commemoration at the Beth Torah Benny Rok Campus in North Miami Beach. This solemn program brings together civic leaders, clergy, survivors, and families in a shared moment of reflection and resilience. The date of Yom HaShoah, April 14th, was intentionally chosen for its proximity to the anniversary of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising. It is a powerful symbol that the history of the Holocaust is not only one of tragedy and loss, but also of dignity and resistance. As our community gathers, we reaffirm our collective responsibility to stand against antisemitism, hatred, and indifference in all its forms. The work of the Yad Vashem USA Foundation is more critical than ever, ensuring that Holocaust education remains a priority and that the lessons of the past continue to guide future generations. It is a privilege to represent a community so dedicated to the promise of ``Never Again.'' I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the memory of the victims and in thanking the South Florida Committee of the Yad Vashem USA Foundation for their tireless commitment to keeping the light of remembrance alive.

Mr. GIMENEZ

Mr. GIMENEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Miami-Dade County Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez for his outstanding leadership and service to our community. As the first directly elected Tax Collector in Miami-Dade County, Dariel Fernandez has brought greater accountability and a renewed commitment to delivering results for the people of Miami-Dade County. Under his leadership, the office has expanded services, improved accessibility, and modernized operations to better serve residents across our county. Beyond his work at the county level, Mr. Fernandez has also been a strong partner in advancing policies that support freedom and democracy in our hemisphere. In particular, he has stood firmly with our efforts to hold the brutal Cuban regime accountable and to support the Cuban people in their fight for liberty. His leadership reflects the values of our South Florida community--one that understands the importance of standing up to oppression and defending freedom wherever it is threatened. Dariel Fernandez embodies the American Dream. His story is one of perseverance, commitment, and a deep love for the community he serves. His work continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of countless residents across Miami-Dade County. I commend Tax Collector Fernandez for his dedication to Miami-Dade County and wish him continued success.

Mr. GIMENEZ

Mr. GIMENEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding young man from Florida's 28th District, Daniel ``Danny'' T. Iglesias, an Eagle Scout Candidate from Boy Scout Troop 334, for his leadership, service, and commitment to honoring a fallen hero in our community. Danny began his scouting journey at just eight years old with Cub Scouts Pack 425 in Miami Springs and has since demonstrated the values of dedication, integrity, and service that define the very best of our next generation. In addition to his achievements in scouting, Danny is a junior at Christopher Columbus High School, a member of the school's football team, Founder and President of the Explorers for Heroes Club, an active participant in campus ministry, and currently holds the rank of Lieutenant in the City of Coral Gables Police Explorer Program. As part of his path of community service, Daniel has undertaken a meaningful and impactful service project to honor Miami Springs Police Officer Charles ``Bubba'' Brian Stafford, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty on June 11, 1991. Danny is making the effort to create a police memorial which will serve as a lasting tribute to Officer Stafford's courage and dedication, while also providing a place for reflection and remembrance. Daniel's initiative reflects not only his passion for public service and his aspiration to pursue a career in law enforcement, but also his deep respect for those who put their lives on the line to protect others. His project embodies the very spirit of scouting--leadership, perseverance, and a commitment to making a positive difference. I invite my colleagues to commend Daniel Iglesias for his exemplary service, leadership, and continued dedication to strengthening our community.

Mr. GIMENEZ

Mr. GIMENEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 50th Anniversary of United Property Management and to honor the legacy of its founder, Jose Milton, a Cuban immigrant whose vision, determination, and entrepreneurial spirit helped shape the residential communities of South Florida. After arriving in Miami in the early 1960s, Mr. Milton, an architect, founded Jose Milton & Associates in 1963, building a real estate development company committed to quality and affordable housing and responsible growth. In 1976, he established United Property Management to oversee the rental communities his organization developed, laying the foundation for what would become one of the largest privately held property management firms in our region. Over the past five decades, the Milton organization has developed and managed thousands of homes, supported hundreds of jobs, and contributed to the economic vitality of South Florida. In 2008, Mr. Milton expanded his impact by establishing the Jose Milton Foundation, to support educational and healthcare initiatives across the region. Further, the Milton organization has a strong belief that successful enterprises have a responsibility to invest in the well-being of the communities they serve. Through both leadership and service, the Milton Family has helped build not only residential communities but also stronger, more vibrant communities throughout South Florida. Today, Jose Milton's legacy lives on through his family and his organization, a testament to the power of immigrant entrepreneurship, visionary leadership, and a lasting commitment to community. I congratulate the Milton Family and United Property Management on this important milestone and commend their continued contributions to South Florida and beyond.

Mr. GIMENEZ

Mr. GIMENEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Latin Builders Association and to congratulate Rafael Cabrera on his installation as the 26th President of the LBA. For more than five decades, the Latin Builders Association has played a critical role in shaping the construction and development industry across South Florida, promoting high standards of professionalism while helping drive economic growth and opportunity throughout the region. The LBA has been instrumental in empowering local and minority-owned businesses, strengthening the construction workforce, and fostering productive partnerships among industry professionals, community leaders, and government at every level. These efforts have helped expand economic opportunities and strengthen South Florida's diverse business community. As President of the Latin Builders Association, Rafael Cabrera brings a strong commitment to collaboration, innovation, and responsible development. His leadership reflects the organization's longstanding mission of advancing the construction industry while supporting the communities it serves. I commend the Latin Builders Association for its enduring contributions to South Florida and congratulate President Cabrera on this important milestone. I wish him and the entire organization continued success in their efforts to build opportunities and strengthen our community for years to come.

Mr. GIMENEZ

Mr. GIMENEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong opposition to H. Con. Res. 61. This resolution would prohibit the President of the United States from using all tools at his disposal in the fight against designated terrorist organizations in the Western Hemisphere. These are the same narcoterrorists who are waging, and have been waging, a war on the American people through the use of deadly drugs and poison that are flooding into our country. Let's talk about reality, not about rhetoric. First of all, the number one job of any government is to protect its people. Since September 11, 2001, roughly 4,000 Americans have been killed inside the United States either by al-Qaida, ISIS, and similar ideologically linked terrorist groups. Meanwhile, since 2021--I am not talking about 2001--nearly 400,000 Americans have died from overdose poisoning, deaths fueled by foreign terrorist organizations including the Venezuelan regime and violent cartels operating in our own backyard. That 400,000 is about the size of my native city of Miami. This is, in reality, a weapon of mass destruction. Yet here we are, debating whether to retreat from fighting terrorists in our own hemisphere, while continuing to fight them halfway around the world. I have spent my life in public safety. Mr. Speaker, I have seen what happens when you hesitate, when you retreat, and when you take your foot off the gas. People die. Families are destroyed, and communities suffer. This resolution does nothing to promote peace. It invites danger, continued chaos, and the loss of more American lives--more American lives. It tells terrorists and cartels that the United States Congress is willing to tie the hands of our Commander in Chief while they ship poison into our communities and profit from American death. As someone who fled communism, I know this lesson well: Weakness invites aggression. When America steps back, evil steps forward.

Mr. GIMENEZ. We must reject this resolution and make clear to the world that the United States has the will to confront narcoterrorism head-on and that we will never surrender to the very people who are killing our children. Too many Americans have already died because we turned a blind eye to this threat. For the sake of our national security, our communities, and the men and women in uniform who stand the line every single day, I urge a ``no'' vote on this resolution. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague from Florida (Mr. Mast) for yielding me the time to speak on this important matter.

Mr. GIMENEZ

Mr. GIMENEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong opposition to this resolution. This resolution would prohibit the use of United States Armed Forces off the coast of Venezuela without regard for the real and growing threats posed by the foreign terrorist Maduro regime. Let's be clear-eyed about the danger that we face. The Maduro regime is a designated foreign terrorist organization, a narcoterrorist state that collaborates with other foreign terrorist organizations and violent cartels to flood our hemisphere and our communities with deadly poison. Venezuela has been taken over. The Venezuelan people are held hostage by a foreign terrorist regime that uses their land as an operating base for international drug trafficking, fueling a crisis that has cost nearly 400,000 Americans their lives since 2021. This resolution would have us pull back from the fight against designated terrorist regimes and cartels in our own hemisphere, just miles from our shores. It tells the foreign terrorist regime in Venezuela and its criminal allies that Congress is willing to look the other way as hundreds of thousands of Americans continue to die every single year. We must reject this resolution and send a clear message: The United States will confront narcoterrorist regimes in our hemisphere, stand with the Venezuelan people, and never surrender to terrorist regimes that threaten our security. Too many Americans have already paid with their lives because this threat was ignored. For the sake of our national security, our communities, and the men and women in uniform who stand the line every day, I urge a ``no'' vote on this resolution. I thank my colleague for yielding me the time.

Mr. GIMENEZ

Mr. GIMENEZ. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 100th birthday of Mr. Carlos Manuel Halley, an extraordinary member of our south Florida community who embodies perseverance, family, and the pursuit of freedom. Born November 4, 1925, in Santiago de Cuba, Mr. Halley married Marcilia Mancebo de Halley and built a beautiful family. Following the Cuban revolution, as a man of deep conviction who believed in liberty and democracy, Mr. Halley made the difficult decision to leave his homeland. Mr. and Mrs. Halley and their five children settled in Miami, determined to rebuild. Through his faith and perseverance, all of his children became professionals, and his legacy now extends to 56 family members. Surrounded by his family and loved ones, he celebrates this remarkable milestone. Mr. Halley remains full of life. He enjoys spending time with friends, charming everybody with his humor, and he still proudly considers Burger King as his favorite restaurant. I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Mr. Carlos Manuel Halley and recognizing the strength of his faith, the love of his freedom, and deep devotion to family.

Mr. GIMENEZ

Mr. GIMENEZ. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to congratulate my fellow Columbus Explorer, Fernando Mendoza, winner of the 2025 Heisman Trophy. Fernando's remarkable journey began in Miami, Florida, and at Christopher Columbus High School, an institution known not only for producing elite athletes but for installing faith, discipline, leadership, and character. Miami has long been a cradle of football excellence, and Fernando Mendoza now joins that proud legacy. His achievement reflects the values of perseverance, sacrifice, and opportunity that define our community. As the first Cuban American to win the Heisman Trophy, Fernando's victory carries special meaning. His story reminds us that in America, deep faith, hard work, and determination know no limits. Miami is proud. The Columbus Explorers are proud. Today, the United States Congress proudly recognizes Fernando Mendoza for this historic achievement. Congratulations to Fernando on a moment that will inspire generations to come. ``Forward,'' ``adelante.''

Mr. GIMENEZ

Mr. GIMENEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 100th anniversary of St. Theresa Catholic School, a pillar of faith, education, and community in the heart of Coral Gables, Florida. In 1925, the Sisters of St. Joseph opened a school with 70 students, planting the seed for one of south Florida's most distinguished Catholic schools. In 1991, the Carmelite Sisters began administering and teaching, a mission that they continue today. For a century, St. Theresa has remained true to its calling: faith formation, academic excellence, and service in a nurturing Christ- centered environment. Over the years, the school has grown, embraced innovation, and prepared generations of students to face the future while remaining rooted in their faith. St. Theresa continues to shine as a beacon of excellence in Catholic education, with its enduring legacy carried forward by a community that fully embodies its mission. Congratulations to St. Theresa Catholic School on a century of service. Extraordinary Achievements of Miami-Dade County Public Schools

Mr. GIMENEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the extraordinary achievements of Miami-Dade County Public Schools, the third largest school district in our Nation, serving more than 335,000 students. Under the leadership of School Board Chair Mari Tere Rojas, Vice Chair Monica Colucci, and board members Roberto Alonso, Dr. Dorothy Bendross-Mindingall, Mary Blanco, Danny Espino, Dr. Steve Gallon, Joseph Geller, and Luisa Santos, along with Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Jose Dotres, Miami-Dade has once again earned an A rating, the largest district in Florida to do so. This success reflects the tireless work of our students, parents, teachers, administrators, and the entire workforce, and it remains a source of pride for our community. In 2025, 99 percent of Miami-Dade County Public Schools earned school grades of A, B, or C, and the district achieved a record-breaking graduation rate of 95.2 percent. Miami-Dade also received the prestigious 2024 Cognia School/Systems of Distinction award, and the district earned 59 Magnet Schools of Excellence Merit awards, and 32 Magnet Schools of Distinction awards. Miami-Dade County Public Schools continue to lead the Nation with a total of 51 National Academy Foundation distinguished career academies and 3 model career academies, and numerous schools have been designated as National Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence. For the 41st consecutive year, the district was awarded the certificate of excellence in financial reporting by the Association of School Business Officials International. These accomplishments and the strength of Miami-Dade County Public Schools' educational programs in a safe and conducive learning environment reaffirms the district's role in preparing students to thrive in the global and technological marketplace. I am proud to celebrate their success and the bright future they are building for the next generation of Miami-Dade County residents.

Mr. GIMENEZ

Mr. GIMENEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of St. Theresa Catholic School, a pillar of faith, education, and community in the heart of Coral Gables, Florida. In 1925, the Sisters of St. Joseph of St. Augustine opened a single building with seventy students. From that humble beginning, they planted the seeds of Catholic education that grew into one of South Florida's most distinguished Catholic schools. On July 16, 1991, the Carmelite Sisters of the Most Sacred Heart of Los Angeles arrived in Coral Gables to begin administering and teaching at St. Theresa--a mission they continue faithfully to this day. For a century, St. Theresa has remained true to its mission: faith formation, academic excellence, and service in a nurturing, Christ- centered environment. Over the years, the school has expanded its facilities, embraced innovation in technology, and prepared its students to face the future while staying rooted in faith. Now serving more than 900 students, St. Theresa continues to shine as a beacon of excellence in Catholic education. Its enduring legacy is carried forward by devoted teachers, parents, and generations of alumni who embody the values instilled within its halls. I congratulate St. Theresa Catholic School on a century of service.

Mr. GIMENEZ

Mr. GIMENEZ. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of my bill, H.R. 1608, the Department of Homeland Security Vehicular Terrorism Prevention and Mitigation Act of 2025. On New Year's Day 2025, our Nation was shaken by a horrific ISIS- inspired attack in New Orleans that took the lives of 14 innocent people and injured dozens more. This tragedy is a stark reminder that vehicles are increasingly being weaponized as instruments of terror. H.R. 1608 directs the Department of Homeland Security to confront the growing threat of vehicle-based attacks. It mandates a comprehensive assessment of current and emerging tactics, including the potential misuse of autonomous vehicles, rideshare platforms, and connected vehicle technologies. Further, the bill strengthens coordination between Federal, State, and local governments and the private sector to better safeguard public gatherings, critical infrastructure, and high-density urban areas. I thank Congressman Troy Carter, who represents the community devastated by the New Year's Day attack, for his partnership and leadership on this effort. This practical and bipartisan legislation is about honoring the lives we lost by doing everything possible to prevent and mitigate future attacks. With major events on the horizon, including America250, the FIFA World Cup, and the Los Angeles Olympics, we must ensure every necessary security measure is in place to protect the millions of visitors and attendees these events will bring. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 1608.