Ben Luján

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, 3 years ago in my home State of New Mexico, our behavioral health system was thrown into crisis when the State froze payments to 15 New Mexico behavioral health providers, resulting in the eventual closure of some and replacement by 5 Arizona providers. This transition and turmoil caused many New Mexicans to fall through the cracks. As a result, too many families are hurting, too many people are suffering, and too many New Mexicans have been unable to access the care they need. To date, 13 behavioral health providers have been exonerated of fraud, the charges leveled by the State of New Mexico as the reason to cut off funding. But the damage has been done. That is why, along with my colleagues, Ms. Michelle Lujan Grisham in the House and Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich, I have called for a Federal investigation into this unwarranted and reckless disruption of services to some of our most vulnerable citizens. I am also working with the delegation on legislation to prevent something like this from ever happening again. I am working to strengthen a behavioral health system that is currently in shambles through legislation that will provide enhanced funding to States that prioritize behavioral health infrastructure, data, and access. If we want States to build and maintain strong behavioral health systems, then we must provide States with the necessary support. During our many conversations with CMS on the crisis and its impact on New Mexicans, it has been clear there is a lack of meaningful data that is needed to hold policymakers accountable. It is unacceptable that after months and months of requesting State-provided data on the behavioral health system in New Mexico, CMS would simply determine this data to have ``significant limitations.'' A report from New Mexico's Legislative Finance Committee identified similar concerns. The report stated that the amount and quality of utilization data collected by the State of New Mexico had ``deteriorated, leaving the question of whether enrollees are receiving more or less care.'' Without access to meaningful data, we cannot determine how best to invest to strengthen our behavioral health system, and we cannot possibly know if we are doing enough to ensure that the most vulnerable are being protected. What we do know is New Mexico's behavioral health system has been needlessly broken and that a full accounting is necessary to rebuild it and ensure that this will never happen again.

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in memory of Dr. and Lt. Col. Miguel Encinias, who passed away on February 20th in Albuquerque at the age of 92. A native of Las Vegas, New Mexico, Dr. Encinias served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War during his long and distinguished military career. After joining the New Mexico National Guard at the age of 16, in the heart of the Great Depression, he applied for and was accepted to the air cadet academy following the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941, where he was one of the very few Hispanic pilots in the academy. Dr. Encinias was shot down over Italy in 1944 and became a German prisoner of war until the Russians liberated his camp in 1945. He also flew in the Korean and Vietnam Wars before retiring as a lieutenant colonel in 1971. During his career, he earned the Distinguished Flying Cross, two Purple Hearts, and fourteen Air Medals, making him one of New Mexico's most decorated veterans. Dr. Encinias continued to serve his country after his time in the Air Force when President Clinton asked him to join the World War II Memorial Advisory Board in 1995, where he helped oversee the creation of the World War II Memorial, a Washington, D.C. landmark that reminds us of the bravery, triumph, and sacrifice of our soldiers who fought for our freedom. Dr. Encinias was also a passionate scholar, studying at Georgetown, the Institute of Political Studies in Paris, and earning his doctorate in Hispanic literature and Education at the University of New Mexico. He taught throughout the state of New Mexico and helped develop New Mexico's Bilingual Education program. He also wrote several books on the rich history of New Mexico. I want to personally thank Dr. Encinias for his many decades of service to his country and his state. His bravery on the battlefield, passion for New Mexico, and love for his family and friends will be sorely missed. I extend my sincere condolences to Dr. Encinias' family--Jeannine, his wife of 52 years; his three children; and four grandchildren--and hope that during this sad time they find comfort in the enduring legacy that Dr. Encinias leaves behind.

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, on roll call no. 87, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted yes.

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize NDI New Mexico as a leader in excellent educational programming in the performing arts for New Mexico's children. NDI New Mexico was founded in 1994 in Santa Fe. Over the last twenty years, NDI New Mexico has grown from serving 100 children in one school to reaching almost 10,000 children through in-school, after-school, summer, and advanced training classes in communities across the state. NDI New Mexico's mission is to provide inspirational programming in the arts that have a unique power to engage and motivate children. These programs have lasting effects on developing positive self-esteem and motivating students to learn inside and outside of the classroom. A recent long-term analysis of NDI's programming shows that students have on average a 1.0 higher GPA and higher standardized test score results than their non-participating peers. These results show the incredible impact that NDI has on its students' educational successes. After-school and outreach programs are an important part of kids' educational opportunities. NDI's program gives students lessons in artistic expression, self-esteem, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to health and fitness. With over 90 programs in 34 communities across New Mexico, NDI works to improve educational outcomes and bridge opportunity gaps for New Mexico's students through the performing arts. The strengths and impacts of NDI on New Mexico's children has been recognized throughout our communities, as it has been awarded Albuquerque Business First's Non Profit of the Year award in the Arts, Culture and Humanities category and Russell Baker, its Executive Director, was named Top CEO in the Non-Profit category. These awards celebrate NDI's outstanding, distinctive programs that aim to help children develop discipline, a standard of excellence, and a belief in themselves that will carry over into all aspects of their lives. Once again, I congratulate NDI New Mexico for its quality educational programming, and thank the entire team for its exceptional work for New Mexico's children.

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mariano Ulibarri, Director of the Parachute Factory of Las Vegas, for his outstanding work in youth community engagement. Mr. Ulibarri is the founder of the Parachute Factory, a community makerspace that has quickly made itself a staple in the Las Vegas community. A makerspace is an area where individuals are able to congregate and engage in creative, do-it-yourself projects that provide beneficial skills and goods for their home communities. After hearing about ``Hacker Scouts,'' an Oakland, California based organization, Mr. Ulibarri was inspired to start a local chapter within the Las Vegas community. Guild #005 has provided the youth of Las Vegas with the opportunity to educate their fellow community members by hosting demonstrations with local groups such as woodworkers and through cultural skills workshops and a variety of other beneficial events. The Parachute Factory works in partnership with the Media Arts/Tech Department at New Mexico Highlands University and the New Mexico State Library. This organization has been recognized by esteemed entities, such as Harvard University's Graduate School of Education, for its innovative approach and effective practices toward progressive community engagement and learning. At a time where our country needs to invest in more Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education and skill building for youth, minorities, and women, the Parachute Factory stands as a shining example for others to emulate. Mr. Ulibarri is currently in Washington, D.C. attending the ``National Science Foundation's 2015 Maker Summit.'' His organization is among 30 groups selected from across the nation that will have the distinct honor of presenting about their charitable work. I applaud Mr. Ulibarri's service to the community and efforts to provide mentoring and learning opportunities for young, tech savvy children. I congratulate Mr. Ulibarri and the Parachute Factory, and thank the entire organization for its exceptional service to our community.

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express the sorrow and profound loss that is being felt in communities across New Mexico following a heinous act of violence that took the life of an innocent young girl. Four year-old Lilly Garcia was in the back seat of her car with her family, when in a case of road rage, a bullet that was fired at her car, hit her, and killed her. This senseless violence was shocking and heartbreaking. It has shaken our community to its core. We cannot turn a blind eye to violence like this. Sadly this story of violence is not unique. In Rio Rancho we lost Officer Gregg Benner who was shot and killed in the line of duty, and in Albuquerque, Officer Daniel Webster died this week after he too was shot in the line of duty. We must have a real discussion about how we address the violence that has taken the lives of too many loved ones, and only by coming together as a community can we make a change. My heart goes out to the family of Lilly Garcia and all those who have lost someone they love to violence.

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Air Force Major Phyllis Pelky, who died earlier this month in a helicopter crash in Kabul, Afghanistan. As a Major in the Air Force, Phyllis Pelky served her nation with distinction as aide-de-camp to the superintendent of the Air Force Academy. Major Pelky had been deployed in support of Operation Freedom's Sentinel in Afghanistan, working as the deputy manpower chief of the American Train, Advise and Assist Command. As we take this moment to honor the service and patriotism of Major Pelky and recognize her sacrifice, the ultimate sacrifice as a member of our armed services, we also thank her for her contributions in the classroom. Major Pelky was a beloved humanities teacher at the Rio Rancho High School. Her commitment to her students, combined with her enthusiasm, encouraged them to learn. She left a lasting impact on those who were fortunate to have her as a teacher. Her enduring spirit will live on through the many students she inspired. As we mourn the passing of Phyllis Pelky and celebrate her life, my thoughts and prayers are with her husband, her two sons, her family, and the Rio Rancho community during this sad time.

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, on roll call no. 546 I regrettably missed roll call vote 546. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yes.''

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize three New Mexican organizations that have gone above and beyond in serving Hispanic students in my home state of New Mexico. Their outstanding work earned them recognition by the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanics as ``Bright Spots.'' Bright Spots are described as organizations or programs that help to close the achievement gap. A total of six organizations in New Mexico have been recognized by the White House and three of those organizations are located in New Mexico's third congressional district. The Los Alamos National Laboratory Foundation (LANLF) encourages Hispanic academic excellence through the support of educational programs. LANLF created programs to support early childhood learning, STEM elementary education, as well as college/workforce development. The second organization in our district is New Mexico Highlands University's Achieving in Research Math and Science (ARMAS). ARMAS has increased the number of Hispanic students earning a Bachelor's of Science degree in a STEM field at the university level. The third organization to receive recognition within our district is Santa Fe YouthWorks! This is a program dedicated to targeting at-risk youth in order to ensure that they have the educational, leadership and life skills to succeed and get ahead. These programs help raise awareness about Hispanic education and the need to address the achievement gap while serving as models of best practices for successfully engaging our diverse population. Together, these programs have helped countless Hispanics achieve academic and social success. These organizations have had a tremendous effect within their particular communities and on New Mexico as a state, by increasing the number of Hispanic students who attain educational degrees. I applaud these outstanding organizations for contributing to Hispanic academic success in New Mexico.

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I have a motion to recommit at the desk.

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico. I am opposed in its current form.

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, this is the final amendment to the bill, which does not kill the bill or send it back to committee. If adopted, the bill will immediately proceed to final passage, as amended. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to offer an amendment to protect sacred sites across America. This issue is not a new one. We have been part of many debates here on the floor and in committee on this important issue. The amendment is straightforward. It reads: ``Nothing in this Act shall contravene the authority of the President to avoid adversely affecting the physical integrity of any site, identified as sacred by virtue of established religious significance to, or ceremonial use by, an Indian religion, under Executive Order 13007.'' Mr. Speaker, as we come from different faiths, we all have respect for one another. Just as we worship in different places, like churches or temples, so, too, should we have respect for these sacred places. Just as we would honor the sanctity of where our loved ones have been laid to rest, so, too, should we honor the sanctity of tribal sacred sites. Sacred sites are an essential part of the culture and heritage of tribal communities, and the degradation of these sites means a loss of identity as well as disrespect for the faith and religion and the culture and the history of our tribal brothers and sisters who are connected to these lands. Sacred sites should not be desecrated. They should be protected. I know it is a sentiment that many of us in this Congress share. Protecting sacred sites is the right thing to do. I ask my colleagues to join me in supporting this very important amendment. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the National Latino Behavioral Health Association Scholarship Recipients for their commitment to promoting the health and well-being of the members of their communities as they pursue a college degree in behavioral health. The National Latino Behavioral Health Association (NLBHA) was established to strengthen the national voice for Latinos in the behavioral health arena and to bring attention to the great disparities that exist in areas of access, utilization, practice based research, and adequately trained personnel. The NLBHA Scholarship provides financial resources and mentorships to students to achieve their goal of college graduation. This year, the NLBHA Scholarship Luncheon recognizes the scholastic achievements of eleven students working toward a degree in behavioral health with a commitment to serving the communities of New Mexico. During Hispanic Heritage Month, it is an honor to support these young Hispanic students as they embark on their journey in higher education. I commend their dedication to addressing the great disparities that exist in the areas of funding, access, and quality of care for Hispanics needing professional mental health and substance abuse services. And while I applaud NLBHA's efforts to recruit and support Hispanics dedicated to behavioral health, and to the students pursuing higher education with the goal of supporting the behavioral needs of New Mexico, I congratulate them on receiving the NLBHA Scholarship and wish them luck in their college and future endeavors.

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of those who have fallen ill or passed on due to radiation exposure from the Trinity test. On this day 70 years ago, rural New Mexico became ground zero for the detonation of the first nuclear bomb. While it would usher in the start of the atomic age, it also marked the beginning of sickness and suffering for generations of people who lived and grew up in the Tularosa Basin and other areas downwind of the test site. Today, we remember those who continue to bear the costs of nuclear testing decades later and recommit to seeking recognition and compensation for the men and women who have been gravely impacted. As a nation we have a responsibility to act and acknowledge the pain that so many New Mexicans and other downwinders have experienced following the Trinity Test. The legacy of that moment in our nation's history is still alive and continues to be felt to this very day by all those battling cancer and other diseases as a result of radiation exposure. It is long past time for Congress to take action and pass legislation expanding the Radiation Expose Compensation Act so that these individuals are no longer left behind, and so that we can come to terms with the full impact of the nuclear age. Though we can never fully compensate these Americans for what they have lost, they deserve to be recognized and receive just compensation that will help generations of families who have gotten sick because of uranium mining or nuclear testing. The men and women who have suffered from radiation exposure must not be forgotten.

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Officer Gregg Benner of the Rio Rancho Police Department, who was killed in the line of duty on March 25. I offer my heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Officer Benner as they mourn the loss of a husband, a father, grandfather, and friend who was taken from them far too soon. Officer Benner dedicated his life to protecting his community and his country. From his career in the Air Force to the Rio Rancho Police Department, Officer Benner put his health and safety on the line to make us safer, and he leaves behind a legacy of valor and service. The loss of any police officer is a painful reminder of the dangers they face. While we are shaken by Officer Benner's loss, we can take comfort in the memories he has left behind for all those who knew him and the example that he set. While a tragedy such as this is unexpected and shocking, the response has brought out the best of the residents of Rio Rancho who have displayed an outpouring of support and sympathy. My thoughts and prayers are with Officer Benner's family, fellow officers, and the entire Rio Rancho community. I hope they find peace in the most difficult time. Officer Benner, may God bless you, and may you rest in peace.

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Officer Gregg Benner of the Rio Rancho Police Department, who was killed in the line of duty on May 25. I offer my heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Officer Benner as they mourn the loss of a husband, father, grandfather, and friend who was taken from them far too soon. Officer Benner dedicated his life to protecting his community and his country. From his career in the United States Air Force to his last 4 years serving as a member of the Rio Rancho Police Department, Officer Benner put his health and safety on the line to make us safer. The same was true last week. When most of us were settling down after a long Memorial Day weekend with family and friends, Officer Benner was doing his duty to protect the people of Rio Rancho. When he didn't return that evening, Officer Benner left behind a legacy of valor of service. The loss of any police officer is a painful reminder of the dangers that they face each and every day. While we are shaken by Officer Benner's loss, we can take comfort in the memories that he left behind for all who knew him and the example that he set for all those in the community. Rio Rancho is a tight-knit community, and while a tragedy such as this is unexpected and shocking, the response has brought out the best of its residents, who have displayed an outpouring of support and sympathy. My thoughts and prayers are with Officer Benner's family, friends, fellow officers, and the entire Rio Rancho community, and I hope that they find peace in this most difficult time. Officer Benner, thank you for your service, and may you rest in peace.

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of this amendment that I am proud to offer with my colleagues. I want to thank Congressman Crowley for his leadership. I want to recognize Chairman Smith for his responsibility in working and looking out for these students as well. In today's world, science, technology, engineering, and math degrees translate into high-paying, in-demand jobs. While we are still struggling with high unemployment in my home State of New Mexico, there are sectors, especially in STEM, that are having difficulty finding qualified workers. To help meet this demand, the National Science Foundation manages a number of programs at minority-serving institutions, including Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Tribal Colleges and Universities. These programs have filled an important void by preparing minority students for meaningful careers in STEM. However, there is no such program and, therefore, a lack of critical support for Hispanic Americans. This is also evident in the fact that Hispanics are severely underrepresented in the STEM workforce. It is time that we fund the creation of a program for Hispanic- Serving Institutions to develop infrastructure, curriculum, and recruit Hispanic students into STEM fields. To do what is best for America, we need to invest and promote these programs.

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor National Service Recognition Day, which was held on April, 7th. Service to our community and our country is an enduring feature of the American spirit, and today we recognize those who have made a commitment to volunteerism. America's cities and communities are at their best when citizens are engaged and take an active role in developing solutions. The Corporation for National and Community Service operates programs that activate and empower communities to tackle some of their most pressing issues such as education, health care, national disaster recovery, and the environment. AmeriCorps and Senior Corps operate in more than 60,000 locations across the country, bolstering both private and non-profit organizations that do vital work in their communities. These programs mobilize millions of volunteers, building skills and educating leaders nationwide. In New Mexico alone, AmeriCorps and Senior Corps involve over 5,000 individuals at more than 640 locations. In honor of National Service Recognition Day I encourage citizens to join me in recognizing the positive impact of national service, to thank those that serve, and to find ways to become involved in their cities and communities.

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I offer my heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Officer Alex Yazzie as they mourn a husband, father, and companion gone too soon. They are joined by the grateful hearts of the community of Shiprock, the Navajo Nation, and the state of New Mexico, as we all honor a tremendous public servant who gave his life in the line of duty. Alex had dedicated his life to serving his country and his community so that we could rest easy. From basic training at Camp Pendleton with the Marine Corps, to 14 years with the Navajo Division of Public Safety, Alex had time and time again rushed into harm's way so that we could be safer. Last Thursday was no different; Officer Alex Yazzie responded because a family was in danger, because his fellow officers were in danger, because his community needed him. When Alex didn't come back that day he left behind a legacy of kindness and service. We are wounded by his loss, but comforted by the memories of all that he gave us and the example that he set for all those in his community. My prayers are with those that Alex has left behind, and I hope that they find peace in this most difficult time.

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, we are only days away from a shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security. When Republicans took control of the House and Senate, they pledged to avoid more government shutdowns. Instead, we have, sadly, learned that Speaker Boehner and Leader Mitch McConnell went nearly 2 weeks--2 weeks--without talking, and their failure to govern us has us, once again, on the brink of a shutdown. I have been shocked and disappointed to hear some of my Republican colleagues say that a shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security would not be a serious issue and try to minimize its impact on people, minimize its impact on workers, and even try to minimize its impact on America. In my home State of New Mexico, a border State, where we have many men and women who proudly serve our country as employees of the Border Patrol, the TSA, and other agencies, getting furloughed or working without a paycheck is a serious issue. If Republicans continue down this path, paychecks will stop, but rent and mortgages and utility bills for these workers will not. Time and again, House Republicans have failed to govern, moving only from one crisis to the next. Sadly, the failure to fund DHS is the latest manufactured crisis that will have a real impact on working families in New Mexico and across America while needlessly putting our national security at risk. It is time for congressional Republicans to stop putting their political security ahead of national security and pass a clean bill. It is time for House Republicans to stop catering to the extreme anti- immigration wing of their party that is willing to sacrifice our Nation's security in order to attack DREAMers who are going to college and serving our great Nation. Mr. Speaker, the eyes of the American people are watching this Republican-led Congress, and so far, all they have seen is gridlock and dysfunction. Mr. Speaker, the United States Senate is moving forward to fund the Department of Homeland Security. House Democrats are ready to support a clean bill. The only ones standing in the way of preventing a Department of Homeland Security shutdown are House Republicans. For our country's sake, let us hope that changes. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that the House bring up H.R. 861, the clean Department of Homeland Security funding bill that will keep the Department open so it can carry out its mission of keeping the American people safe.

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Los Alamos Historical Society for its work to preserve the history of Los Alamos and its advocacy for the Manhattan Project National Park. The Los Alamos Historical Society has done much to promote the history of Los Alamos. As the largest historical society in New Mexico, the Los Alamos Historical Society plays an important educational role in the community by managing the Los Alamos Historical Museum and Archives, producing lecture series, and publishing books on the area history. Moreover, the Los Alamos Historical Society helped to create the ``Voices of the Manhattan Project,'' a public archive of the oral history collections of Manhattan Project veterans and their families. Not only has the Los Alamos Historical Society helped preserve and communicate the story of Los Alamos for future generations of New Mexicans, but it has also helped spread Los Alamos's legacy to visitors from around the globe. The Los Alamos Historical Society has also been a strong advocate for the creation of the Manhattan Project National Park. The Manhattan Project changed the course of the 20th century and has had an enduring effect on American and world history. The new National Park will help future generations understand both the positive and negative impacts of the project, as well as recognize the individuals who played a key role in the national security of our nation. I thank the Los Alamos Historical Society for its efforts to ensure that the legacy and people of the Manhattan Project will not be forgotten, and I applaud the Historical Society for all that they have done to protect and promote the history of Los Alamos.

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Dealer of the Year, The Candyman Strings & Things of Santa Fe. The Candyman Strings & Things, owned by Rand and Cindy Cook, has been a staple in the Santa Fe community since they opened its doors in 1969, and was awarded Dealer of the Year for its innovative and effective practices, as well as for setting an outstanding example for its peers in the musical instrument and products industry. Additionally, Candyman was also given the Music Makes a Difference award for promoting music in its community. Candyman serves to inspire its industry and also aspires to serve its community through numerous educational and scholarship programs. Through its charitable contributions and outreach work, Candyman has made a difference in the lives of customers, schools, and children. Small businesses are an important part of local communities. Candyman is an example of a small business that has been successful and has had a positive impact in Northern New Mexico. While I applaud Candyman's efforts to ensure a high level of service to its customers, I am even more impressed by its service to the community and efforts to provide mentoring and learning opportunities for young music enthusiasts. Once again, I congratulate The Candyman Strings & Things for being awarded both the Dealer of the Year and Music Makes a Difference awards, and thank the entire team for its exceptional service to our community.

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the distinguished career of Regis Pecos, who has dedicated his career to working on behalf of his community and the people of New Mexico. I have had the honor of knowing Regis for many years as he served as Chief of Staff to my father, Ben Lujan, Speaker of the New Mexico House of Representatives. Regis was more than just a trusted advisor, he was a friend to my father and to our whole family. Regis has spent much of his career helping to advance the interests of the people of New Mexico, and has continually been a strong advocate for Native American communities in our state. Regis served his pueblo as both Governor and Lieutenant Governor and went on to work as Executive Director at the New Mexico Office of Indian Affairs for 16 years and under four different governors. While in this important position, he helped gain the support of the New Mexico State Legislature for the State Indian Child Welfare Act. Regis' passion for Tribal public policy and community issues extends beyond his time in government. In 1997, he co-founded the Santa Fe Indian School Leadership Institute, an organization dedicated to creating systemic change within Tribal communities. The Leadership Institute helps create a dialogue on the important policy issues facing Indian Country and also gives youth community members important exposure and education on Native issues. The knowledge and passion that Regis has brought to his endeavors on behalf of the people of New Mexico will be greatly missed as he leaves the Roundhouse. But I know that whatever the next chapter brings for Regis, he will always remember his deep roots and always work to build a brighter future for his community and his state. It is with great honor that I congratulate Regis on his many years of service and wish him continued success.

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico

Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the distinguished career of New Mexico House Chief Clerk Stephen Arias, who is retiring at the end of the year. Mr. Arias began his career with the New Mexico Legislature in 1966 and worked his way through the ranks of the House, starting as a clerk reading legislation, a payroll officer, and even a coat checker. In 1983 he was elected House Chief Clerk by the majority caucus and has served in that position for the past 31 years. In that time, Mr. Arias became the third-longest serving legislative clerk in the country. Originally elected Chief Clerk under Speaker of the House Raymond Sanchez, Mr. Arias went on to serve under four subsequent speakers as he was re-elected time and again by the members of the House--a testament to the tremendous job he did over three decades. Although they may not receive a lot of attention, Chief Clerks are essential to the smooth functioning of the legislature. Chief Clerks are in charge of hiring seasonal staff, tracking and filing bills, maintaining and setting the House budget, keeping communication between the House and Senate chambers flowing smoothly, and helping incoming lawmakers and committees address constituent issues. Mr. Arias has done all these things and more during his tenure as Chief Clerk, and I applaud his tireless work ethic. I congratulate Stephen Arias on his remarkable career, and I wish him the best in his future endeavors.