Filemon Vela

Mr. VELA

Mr. VELA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Texas Southmost College (TSC) as the institution marks 90 years of educating students and providing opportunity in the Rio Grande Valley. Located in Brownsville, Texas, Texas Southmost College was founded in 1926. It was initially known as The Junior College of the Lower Rio Grande Valley, and in 1931 the college changed its name to Brownsville Junior College. It was not until 1949 that the name was changed to Texas Southmost College (TSC). TSC is located on the U.S.-Mexico border, near the Mexican town of Matamoros, Tamaulipas, in the heart of downtown Brownsville. Texas Southmost College sits on the property once known as Fort Brown, a United States Army post that was active during the Mexican- American War and the U.S. Civil War. TSC occupies former buildings and structures of historic Fort Brown. In May 1991, the Texas Legislature authorized the newly created University of Texas at Brownsville to enter into an agreement with Texas Southmost College to teach courses not offered at the college or university. This resulted in the creation of ``The University of Texas at Brownsville-Texas Southmost College.'' For more than 20 years, UTB and TSC operated simultaneously as one institution. For many years, Texas Southmost College has provided residents of Cameron, Hidalgo and Willacy counties with opportunities to pursue associate degrees, workforce training, and continuing education degrees and certificates. TSC is committed to enhancing student success and degree completion through motivation, learning-centered, and service- oriented educational and skills training programs. The mission of Texas Southmost College is ``Transforming our Communities through Innovative Learning Opportunities.'' Texas Southmost College fulfills this mission by educating our next generation of leaders in public service, science, teaching, medicine and other fields. Some of its notable alumni include Oscar Casares, author of Brownsville: Stories and Amigoland; Dr. Juliet V. Garcia, former president of UTB/TSC; Congresswoman Grace Napolitano of California; and Jaime Zapata, an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent killed in the line of duty while traveling from Mexico to the United States. In 2015, the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanics selected Texas Southmost College as a Bright Spot, highlighting its efforts to close the achievement gap and expand access to quality higher education opportunities for first-generation Hispanic college students. Texas Southmost College has made a lasting, positive impact in our community, and they will continue to play a critical role in shaping our region's future. I rise today to congratulate them on 90 successful years.

Mr. VELA

Mr. VELA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Charro Days Fiesta and commend the 2015 ``Mr. Amigo,'' chosen by the Mr. Amigo Association of Brownsville, Texas, and Matamoros, Tamaulipas, in Mexico. A talented Mexican actress, singer, and dancer, Itati Cantoral has been selected as the 2015 ``Mr. Amigo.'' Her style and charisma have won the admiration of audiences across the world. Through her work as a performer, Ms. Cantoral has brought communities together for more than 20 years. She is an excellent choice to represent the spirit of friendship. First awarded in 1964, the title of ``Mr. Amigo'' is an annual tribute to an outstanding Mexican citizen who has made a lasting contribution during the previous year to international solidarity and goodwill. ``Mr. Amigo'' acts as an ambassador between the United States and Mexico and presides over the annual Charro Days Fiesta. Charro Days dates back to 1937, when the citizens of Brownsville organized the event in the midst of the Great Depression to celebrate the cultural heritage shared between Brownsville and its sister city across the Rio Grande, Matamoros. The first Charro Days celebration featured a parade with horse-drawn floats and participants dressed in traditional Mexican costumes reminiscent of charros, or Mexican cowboys. From these humble beginnings, Charro Days has evolved into a multi- day event, which includes dances, fiestas, a children's parade, and the Grand International Parade. Thousands of participants from both sides of the border celebrate these traditions each year. The 78th annual Charro Days celebration commenced on February 22nd, with a grito, or celebratory yell. And just yesterday, the Mayor of Brownsville and the Mayor of Matamoros met at the Gateway International Bridge to extend their hands across the border, symbolizing the friendship between the two cities. Mr. Speaker, thank you for the opportunity to honor the Charro Days Fiesta and for joining me in recognizing the importance of this annual celebration, which continues to strengthen the relationship between Brownsville and Matamoros, and the bonds between the United States and Mexico.

Mr. VELA

Mr. VELA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Lori Flores, a South Texas native and a leading researcher in the fields of Latino and labor history. Lori attended Yale University, and she was the first woman in her family to earn a college degree. At Yale, she realized her passion to study Mexican American history, ultimately leading her to earn a PhD from Stanford University. Lori's dissertation explored the political development of Mexican Americans and immigrants in California's Salinas Valley during the mid-1900s. Her research on the Latino civil rights movement culminated in the publication of a book which will be released this year. Lori now teaches at the State University of New York at Stony Brook, where she nurtures the thinkers and dreamers of tomorrow. Dr. Flores has received numerous awards, and she continues to be a role model for young people in her community.

Mr. VELA

Mr. VELA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Lori Flores, a native of the Rio Grande Valley and a leading researcher in the fields of Latino and labor history. Lori attended Yale University, and she was the first woman in her family to earn a college degree. At Yale, she realized her passion to study Mexican American history, ultimately leading her to earn a PhD from Stanford University. Lori's dissertation explored the political development of Mexican Americans and immigrants in California's Salinas Valley during the mid-1900s. Her research on the Latino civil rights movement culminated in the publication of a book which will be released this year. Lori now teaches at the State University of New York at Stony Brook, where she nurtures the thinkers and dreamers of tomorrow. Dr. Flores has received numerous awards, and she continues to be a role model for young people in her community.

Mr. VELA

Mr. VELA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ms. Jovita Chase as she celebrates the 40th anniversary of her restaurant, Brownsville Coffee Shop #2. For four decades, Jovita has dedicated her life to serving residents of Brownsville, Texas delicious, well-priced meals. Her restaurant, which features food that is made from scratch, is a favorite of the Brownsville Police Department, the Cameron County Sheriff's Office, teachers, local elected officials and those seeking a hearty meal in a comfortable, homey environment. The restaurant's specialties include homemade flour tortillas and gorditas. Brownsville Coffee Shop #2 was established in 1964 by Jovita's mother, Rafaela Alviar, who opened several coffee shops in downtown Brownsville. After Rafaela passed away, Jovita and her brother, Andres, took over management of these local institutions. Andres continues to run Brownsville Coffee Shop #1, which has been in business for 42 years. In addition to providing a gathering place for the community, Jovita supports higher education by awarding scholarship funds to local students in honor of her mother. She also gives back by hosting a monthly meal for the Good Neighbor Settlement House, and she not only provides her employees with a paycheck but also helps them develop a strong work ethic and leadership skills. Our community benefits greatly from institutions like the Brownsville Coffee Shop #2. Jovita Chase and her restaurant have had a lasting, positive impact on South Texas, and I rise today to share my congratulations along with those of her customers and employees.

Mr. VELA

Mr. VELA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Harlingen, Texas Mayor Chris Boswell who has been awarded the Distinguished Citizen Award by the Rio Grande Council of the Boy Scouts of America. Each year the Boy Scouts of America recognize a noteworthy and extraordinary leader in the Rio Grande Valley community. The award is presented to an individual in honor of their service to the community, and honorees are recognized for their efforts to inspire young people to be leaders. Chris Boswell was first elected Mayor of Harlingen in May 2007 and was re-elected in 2010 and 2013. Prior to being Mayor, he served twice as president of the Lower Rio Grande Valley Development Council. He was also president of the Cameron County Bar Association. Mayor Boswell served 10 years as a Cubmaster and 7 years as an Assistant Scoutmaster. His leadership culminated in his serving as president of the Rio Grande Council and later as President of Area 2 which governs 11 scout councils in Texas and Louisiana. Harlingen and the entire Rio Grande Valley have benefitted greatly from his leadership, vision and expertise, and I rise today to congratulate Mayor Chris Boswell on this well-deserved honor.

Mr. VELA

Mr. VELA. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 2786, the Cross-Border Rail Security Act. Mr. Speaker, in March of this year, the Department of Homeland Security's inspector general released a report on high-risk cross- border rail cargo. The report concluded that U.S. Customs and Border Protection, or CBP, did not always use the required radiation detection equipment to examine shipments it determined to be high risk. Additionally, some ports of entry lacked the appropriate equipment to conduct these screenings, and training and oversight of targeting and examining such shipments was lacking. In response to these troubling findings, my bill would require the CBP Commissioner to submit to the relevant congressional committees within 180 days of enactment a report regarding high-risk cross-border rail cargo shipments entering the United States. Mr. Speaker, my bill would require the report to include information on the number of high-risk shipments crossing the border by rail, details on the radiation detection units at rail crossings, an assessment of whether additional equipment is necessary, and a plan for ensuring that all relevant CBP personnel receive appropriate training to appropriately target, examine, and record the disposition of such shipments. The bill requires the Government Accountability Office to audit periodically CBP operations at rail crossings to ensure rail shipments are being appropriately targeted, examined, and documented. The community I represent has a vested interest in securing cross- border rail cargo. This past August, I was proud to be a part of the opening of the West Rail Bypass International Bridge located in Brownsville, Texas, the first international new rail crossing between the U.S. and Mexico in over a century. Both of our land borders are dotted with these crossings, and, in fact, the majority of them are located on the northern border. The cargo that crosses by rail is destined for locations all over the United States, making the effective targeting and examining of high- risk shipments a national concern. Mr. Speaker, my committee colleagues unanimously supported this bill, and I urge all of my colleagues to help strengthen the cross-border rail security by supporting H.R. 2786. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. VELA. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Mr. VELA

Mr. VELA. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise in strong support of H.R. 2835, the Border Jobs for Veterans Act of 2015. First of all, I would like to thank my colleague, Congresswoman McSally, for introducing this wonderful piece of legislation. It not only helps us expedite the flow of traffic in trade at our borders, but it also helps and assists with our veterans we all represent. H.R. 2835, the Border Jobs for Veterans Act of 2015, would require the Secretary of Homeland Security to consider expediting the hiring of qualified veterans to serve as U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers. The bill also authorizes DHS to enhance its efforts to recruit members of the Armed Forces who are separating from military service to serve as CBP officers and requires DHS to report to Congress on its efforts. Through their service, our Nation's veterans have demonstrated their unwavering commitment to our country and its security. CBP would benefit greatly from their service within the agency's ranks. At the same time, expediting the hiring of qualified veterans could help alleviate the continued shortage of CBP officers at our ports of entry, helping to better secure our borders while facilitating legitimate trade and travel. With that in mind, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 2835, to facilitate the recruitment and hiring of America's military veterans for new careers serving our country as U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. VELA

Mr. VELA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the important and meaningful work that the Community Development Corporation of Brownsville has carried out in the lower Rio Grande Valley over the past four decades. Since 1974, the Community Development Corporation of Brownsville (CDCB), a 501(c) (3) community housing development organization, has been successfully working to utilize collaborative partnerships that create sustainable communities across the Rio Grande Valley. The partnerships have helped ensure quality education, model financing, efficient home design, and superior construction. CDCB is the largest non-profit producer of single family housing in Texas. In 2014, CDCB built 125-plus homes, assisted 178 families, created 375 jobs, and added $4.6 million to the local economy as well as $2.5 million in additional tax revenue. One of the CDCB's latest housing development projects, known as La Hacienda Casitas in Harlingen, Texas, was designed and constructed with the help of local contractors, non-profits, and businesses. This project adopted new construction designs that will work to mitigate flooding and erosion that all too often plague the area. La Hacienda Casitas is a model for housing programs across the nation. For more than 10 years, CDCB's YouthBuild program has been opening doors for 16- to 24-year-olds in Brownsville, Texas, helping them develop life skills and prepare for future careers. By providing opportunities in construction, community service, education and leadership development, the YouthBuild program is preparing students to excel and adapt to diverse workforce opportunities in their communities. The RAPIDO Project, a pioneering $2 million project funded by federal and state post-Hurricane Dolly funds, is a new approach to traditional disaster recovery housing. This project will help those who have lost their homes move into new ones in a matter of weeks, rather than living in a Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) trailer for an unknown period of time. The RAPIDO Project brings together architects, urban planners, developers and project managers, from throughout the state, in an effort to help redefine disaster recovery housing that is affordable and efficient. In 2015, the CDCB was awarded the Energy Star Certified Homes Market Leader Award for 80 homes they built last year. The organization received the Maxwell Award of Excellence and the Federal Home Loan Bank System Community Partnership Award. CDCB has also been recognized with the State of Texas Housing Finance Special Achievement Award, and in 2013 the organization was awarded the Highest Cumulative kW Savings Award by American Electric Power Texas. In July 2013, CDCB became a member of the national Neighborworks Network, an organization focused on supporting housing organizations in bettering their communities. During the past 40 years, the Community Development Corporation of Brownsville has helped many families in the Rio Grande Valley achieve the American dream of owning a home. Mr. Speaker, I thank you for the opportunity to recognize the Community Development Corporation of Brownsville, led by Nick Mitchell-Bennett, for outstanding, innovative, and important work in the Lower Rio Grande Valley.

Mr. VELA

Mr. VELA. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 1634, the Border Security Technology Accountability Act of 2015. Over the past several years, the Government Accountability Office has examined the various Department of Homeland Security programs and concluded that DHS has not followed standard best practices for acquisitions management. Though DHS has taken steps to improve its performance, specific deficiencies in how the Department carries out major acquisitions remain. When a DHS acquisition program falls short in terms of effectiveness or efficiency, it not only risks undermining that program, but also risks wasting limited Homeland Security dollars. For example, DHS spent hundreds of millions of dollars on the SBInet border security program before it was ultimately canceled. No doubt, this funding could have been put to far better use along our Nation's border. The Border Security Technology Accountability Act would require each of the Department's major acquisitions for border security technology to have written documentation reflecting a baseline approved by the relevant acquisition decision authority and demonstrate that the program is meeting agreed-upon cost, schedule, and performance thresholds before moving into the next phase of the acquisition cycle. The bill also requires the Under Secretary for Management, in coordination with the Commissioner of Customs and Border Protection, to submit to Congress a plan for testing and evaluation as well as the use of independent verification and validation resources for border security technology. There is need for improving acquisitions management at the Department of Homeland Security as a whole, and addressing border security technology acquisitions is an important step. We owe it to the American taxpayers to make sure we are managing these investments wisely and preventing wasteful spending. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 1634 aims to focus and improve the way we invest in and manage border security technology by providing a specific framework for accountability and oversight on behalf of the American taxpayer. I thank Congresswoman McSally for her leadership in bringing this bill forward, and I urge my colleagues to support this bill. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. VELA

Mr. VELA. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise in strong support of H.R. 998, the Preclearance Authorization Act of 2015. This bipartisan bill would authorize the Secretary of Homeland Security to establish U.S. Customs and Border Protection preclearance operations with 180 days' prior notification and certification to Congress that certain specified conditions exist. These conditions include that there are Homeland Security benefits for establishment of the preclearance location, a U.S. air carrier service serves the location, and establishment of the location will not significantly increase customs processing wait times in the United States. The bill would require all countries with preclearance locations to routinely submit information about lost and stolen passports of their citizens to INTERPOL's stolen and lost travel document database or make such information available to the U.S. through other means. H.R. 998 is intended to address many of the shortcomings in DHS' deployment of preclearance to Abu Dhabi last year and ensure that Congress receives appropriate notice prior to future expansion of the program to new locations. Similar legislation was passed by the House under suspension of the rules in July 2014, but no action was taken by the Senate. I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 998, sending it to the Senate for consideration in the 114th Congress. H.R. 998 will help ensure that expansion of the Department of Homeland Security's preclearance program enhances our Nation's security, facilitates legitimate travel to the United States, and does not disadvantage domestic air carriers or United States ports of entry. I thank Congresswoman Miller, the chairman of the Border and Maritime Security Subcommittee, for all of her efforts in bringing all these bills forward and for her strong bipartisan leadership. I urge my colleagues to support this bill, and I yield back the balance of my time. Mrs. MILLER from Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I, too, want to again indicate that these are bipartisan bills, the Homeland Security Committee bills that are coming forward on the floor. I really have appreciated the opportunity and look forward to continuing to work with my ranking member, Mr. Vela, shoulder to shoulder on so many of these important issues before our country today. So, Mr. Speaker, I would once again urge my colleagues to support this very strong bipartisan piece of legislation. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. VELA

Mr. VELA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Judge David Silva. Born in Beeville, Texas, on May 26, 1944, to Marcos and Altagracia Silva, Judge Silva passed away on March 16, 2015, after losing a long battle with leukemia. Judge Silva's life exemplified the American Dream. He graduated from A.C. Jones High School in 1963, before joining the U.S. Air Force to faithfully serve his country. While in the Air Force, Silva attended Boise State College in Idaho and married Yolanda Olivares. One year after being honorably discharged from the U.S. Air Force, Silva graduated from Bee County College. He would go on to earn a Bachelor of Arts Degree in American History in 1975 and a Master of Arts Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies: History, Psychology and Sociology from Texas A&M University in Corpus Christi, Texas. Judge Silva understood how education would forever transform his life. From 1974 until his passing, he taught at Beeville College, helping students realize their potential through education. In addition to his active role in educating citizens of Beeville, he was a church pastor, served on the Juvenile Board to help at-risk youth, provided guidance to the Local Emergency Planning Committee, and helped plan the future of Beeville. Silva's contributions to his community are without equal. In 2004, Silva's reputation for fairness, dedication, and love for his community earned him an appointment to the Beeville Municipal Court. This moment in Silva's life arrived after decades of dedicated effort and service to his community. He worked his way through high school as a janitor in the same courthouse where he would later serve as a judge. He lived a life defined by integrity, commitment and dedication. Silva would continue to be a pillar of the Beeville community during his later years. He found time to help lead community boards as he continued his passion for education. His capacity to perform at a high level was second to none. Our community suffered a tremendous loss with Judge Silva's passing, but his legacy will be preserved by the positive change he made in his community and through the many students who had the privilege to learn from him in the classroom. Judge David Silva is survived by his beloved wife of 44 years, Yolanda Olivares Silva; his daughters, Cassandra Dianne Silva (Casey Hawkins), and Cristianna Dawn Silva Meineke (Aaron Meineke); siblings, John Marks Silva, Amado Silva (Zenaida), and Grace Ramirez (Adolfo). He is also survived by a granddaughter, Audria Nouvelle Diem Silva. On this day, I remember Judge David Silva. May he forever rest in peace.

Mr. VELA

Mr. VELA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of Head Start, which provides children from low-income families access to comprehensive preschool programs and prepares children for success in kindergarten and beyond. On May 18, 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson launched Project Head Start as an eight-week summer demonstration project to teach low-income students needed skills before they started kindergarten. Over the past 50 years, Head Start has served 30 million children and families across the country who earn less than 100 percent of the federal poverty line or who have a disability. Head Start is administered by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and directly supports local agencies delivering services. The services Head Start children and their families receive include education, nutrition, dental, health, mental health transition, parental involvement and complete social service support. This strong support network provides the tools families need for their children to succeed upon entering primary school. Continued access to the Early Head Start and Head Start programs helps ensure that children develop the academic and life skills they need to succeed in their academic careers. Head Start alumni are more likely to finish high school, go to college, and be in good health, and are less likely to commit a crime. In 2012, HHS conducted a study that by the end of the 3rd grade, children who participated in the program were more likely to have favorable social emotional developmental outcomes and favorable cognitive impacts. For 50 years, this program has given children the tools to succeed by ensuring a high quality education and access to healthcare and social services. The Head Start program represents a critical investment in the education of our nation's children. In 2014, local affiliates like Neighbors in Need of Services Inc. (NINOS) and Community Action Corporation of South Texas (CACOST) served over 8,000 children in the 34th District of Texas. These organizations help improve the lives of children and their families in South Texas. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Head Start on its 50th Anniversary today, and I wish continued success to all the Head Start staff and volunteers who are helping people, changing lives, and building communities.

Mr. VELA

Mr. VELA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Assistant United States Attorney Charles Lewis and to honor his more than four decades of federal service. In 1973, Charlie began his career as a law clerk to the Honorable Reynaldo Garza in Brownsville, Texas. After completing his clerkship, he joined the United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Texas. Throughout his career, Charlie distinguished himself as a tough and ethical prosecutor who passionately represented the United States in federal court. Charlie's career included positions as Assistant Director of the Attorney General's Advocacy Institute in charge of training federal prosecutors in criminal prosecutions; Coordinator of the Presidential Drug Taskforce for the states of Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi; Coordinator of the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) Houston division; Resident Legal Advisor to the U.S. Embassy in Bucharest, Romania; and Prosecutor Representative for the anti- terrorism advisory committee in Brownsville, Texas. Charlie's dedication to the prosecution of organized crime and drug trafficking resulted in seizures of tens of millions of dollars of currency and property and the convictions of many large-scale narcotics traffickers and corrupt public officials. Many of Charlie's cases included investigations in multiple countries across numerous federal investigative agencies, and took years to develop and prosecute. Charlie was particularly good at explaining complex cases to federal juries and applying the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act. Charlie is particularly proud of the three years he spent in Bucharest, Romania where he helped reform the Romanian legal system and served as the U.S. representative to the Southeast European Cooperative Initiative (now known as the Southeast European Law Enforcement Center) which provides support to member states to combat transnational organized crime and corruption. Mr. Speaker, I thank you for the opportunity to honor Charles Lewis and his more than four decades of public service to the United States. I join my colleagues in Congress in wishing him and Mary, his wife of more than 30 years, the best.

Mr. VELA

Mr. VELA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the upcoming 153rd anniversary of Cinco de Mayo. In May I will join my constituents in Goliad, Texas, to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. The holiday has come to represent a day of celebration of Mexican culture around the world. Goliad, Texas is the birthplace of the young Mexican general, and the hero of Cinco de Mayo--Ignacio Seguin Zaragoza. He initially studied for priesthood, yet took up arms in defense of his country when Mexico slid into the War of the Reform. As the conflict came to a close in the late 1850s, General Zaragoza joined federalist troops with the legendary Benito Juarez and fought in numerous battles, including the Battle of Calpulalpan, which ended the War of the Reform. His strategic acumen in those four years led to his rapid promotion to general. After the war, Mexico's European debt suffocated the economy, forcing then Mexican President Benito Juarez to declare a moratorium on debt payments. In retaliation, Spain, England, and France sent their fleets and forced the surrender of Veracruz, Mexico. President Juarez sent one of his generals to Veracruz in response. When that general observed the forces of the great European powers displayed in front of Veracruz, he resigned. President Juarez turned to General Zaragoza to lead the fight. The Spanish and English withdrew their forces after negotiations with President Juarez, but the French army, arguably the best during that time, marched on to Mexico City. The intent was to conquer Mexico, join forces with the Confederate Army, and attack the Union. However, General Zaragoza stopped this invasion, in Puebla, Mexico. The Battle of Puebla lasted most of May 5, 1862. Despite a severe imbalance in forces, the Mexican army held. General Zaragoza was lauded on his return. Later, while visiting his own sick troops, he contracted typhoid fever and died on September 8, 1862, at the young age of 33. He was honored with a state funeral, and three days later, President Benito Juarez declared May 5, or Cinco de Mayo, a national holiday. Citizens of Goliad maintain a rich cultural heritage, and are fiercely proud of their legacy. Today, festivities center around Zaragoza Plaza, which is located adjacent to the birthplace of Ignacio Seguin Zaragoza. The Texas Legislature has designated this beautiful plaza as the official celebration site for Cinco de Mayo so that future generations may understand its historical significance.

Mr. VELA

Mr. VELA. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise in honor of the Simon Rivera Early College High School Raiders--the 2015 6A Boys Soccer UIL State Champions from Brownsville, Texas. Their undefeated 28 game season proved that the Rio Grande Valley is home to the best soccer team in the State of Texas, and one of the best in the nation. On Saturday, April 18, 2015, the Rivera Raiders beat Katy Cinco Ranch 2 to 0 in Georgetown, Texas. The win cemented their state title and brought a third statewide championship to the Brownsville Independent School District. From the onset of the 2015 soccer season, Coach Salvador Garcia knew the Rivera Raiders were a ``Team of Destiny,'' and would rally the support of an entire community. Coach Garcia's dedication, tenacity and years of experience would transform the Rivera Raiders into an undefeated powerhouse. He knew the hours of practice and commitment would yield only one outcome--a chance to prove what he already knew-- that the Rivera Raiders would be the best soccer team in Texas. Their historic championship season serves as a reminder that through teamwork and perseverance, we are all capable of achieving great things. The entire team of dedicated student-athletes set an example to be emulated. Their accomplishments have earned them a place in the history of Rivera High School, and the legacy of their state championship will live on through the precedent set by an undefeated season. To all those who supported the players, your efforts were critical to the strength of the Rivera Raiders. You drove them to practices early in the morning and picked them up late into the evening. On game days, you prepared them the nutritious meals that would give them stamina. You helped them balance the demands of athletics, studies, and home life, and you instilled the values of humility, sportsmanship and perseverance. To the faculty and staff at Rivera High School: teachers, assistant coaches, counselors, principals, support staff and personnel, thank you for all that you do to help our children accomplish their goals. Your commitment to educating all students is vital as we prepare the next generation of Americans to lead our nation in the future. Keep doing the excellent job you do. The coaches and players who inspired a community and cemented their place in Rivera High School history by winning the 2015 6A Boys Soccer UIL State Championship are Head Coach Salvador Garcia; Assistant Coaches Jose Dominguez, Andres Macias and Jimmy Montalvo; Athletic Coordinator Tom Chavez; and Principal Aimee Garza-Limon. The 2015 Rivera Raiders are Isidro Martinez (named Most Valuable Player); Eliezer Acero; Israel Acero; David Alexander; Erik A. Alonso; Carlos I. Alvarez; Jose R. Alvarez, Jr.; Francisco Cardenas, Jr.; Roberto C. Castro; Jorge A. Cordova; Abdon Cruz; Hernan A. Cruz; Ivan L. Cruz; Julian Espinoza; Marcos A. Hernandez, Jr.; Alexis Herrera; Lee R. Martinez; Roberto J. Melendez; Eliseo F. Ortiz; Edward M. Rojas; Eduardo A. Salinas; Sergio Soto-Ramirez; Jesus A. Torres II; Jose A. Muniz Velazquez; Jose M. Villanueva, Jr.; Alfredo G. Villarreal; and Jesus R. Zaragoza. These students from Rivera High School represented the Brownsville Independent School District and the City of Brownsville in a manner that brings great credit and distinction to our region, and I am proud that they set an example for us all to follow. I wish each of them the best in their future endeavors, and I join with my colleagues in Congress in congratulating them on an undefeated championship season.

Mr. VELA

Mr. VELA. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise in honor of Women's History Month. The 34th Congressional District of Texas is home to inspirational women who have broken barriers and significantly improved the quality of life for countless South Texas families. Today, I take the time to honor two of them--Julieta V. Garcia and Irma Rangel. Dr. Julieta V. Garcia built her legacy on making higher education accessible to South Texans. She served as the president of the University of Texas at Brownsville (UTB) from 1992 to 2014. In 2009, Time Magazine listed Dr. Garcia among the top ten college presidents, and last year, she was named by CNN Money/Fortune as one of the World's 50 Greatest Leaders. During Dr. Garcia's tenure, her relentless advocacy for increasing access to higher education in South Texas is reflected in UTB's enrollment statistics. The UTB student body is 91% Hispanic, and 71% are first-generation college students. Her forward- thinking leadership laid the foundation for establishment of the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Recently, Julieta Garcia took on a new role as the first executive director of The University of Texas-- Americas Institute, which focuses on developing the next generation of leaders through a non-partisan venue that convenes discussions on critical issues of global significance. Irma Rangel, a St. Mary's Law School graduate, served in the Texas State Legislature from 1976 to 2003. She was the first Mexican American woman elected to the Texas House of Representatives. Her legislative career focused on the concerns of women and children and how to provide them a mechanism for progress. She established education and employment programs for mothers on public assistance, built centers to protect victims of abuse, and labored to make voting more accessible for all Texans. In 1994, Irma Rangel was inducted into the Texas Women's Hall of Fame. Rangel's contributions will live on through the many families her work brought into the middle class. She died on March 18, 2003, from cancer. The Irma Rangel College of Pharmacy opened its doors at Texas A&M University-Kingsville on August 10, 2006. During Women's History Month, we are reminded of those who broke down barriers for future generations. I encourage all to take a moment today to reflect on the contributions women have made to our nation. I thank these women and others who have dedicated themselves to service.

Mr. VELA

Mr. VELA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of Brownsville Independent School District (BISD). In March 1915, the Texas House of Representatives and Senate both approved a measure transferring control of the city's public education to the newly created BISD. Prior to the establishment of a school board, the City of Brownsville maintained control of the school system. The Brownsville Board of Trustees met for the first time on March 25, 1915, and was presided by Board President Dr. J.L. Wortman. The newly established Brownsville Independent School District included Brownsville High School, City Grammar School, the Blalack School, the Las Matanzas School, the Media Luna School, the Nopalita School, the Linerro School, and the West Brownsville School. Superintendent of Schools Lizzie M. Bardour and several trustees continued their service as the schools transitioned from city to board control, and the board instituted a new curriculum that included the creation of a department of domestic economy and an improved science department complete with a full skeleton. Today, BISD is made up of 58 schools serving 50,000 students and employing 7,200--making the school district the largest employer within a 95-mile radius in the Rio Grande Valley. Of the 58 schools, there are 7 high schools, 11 middle schools, 37 elementary schools, and 3 alternative schools. One of the schools, Filemon B. Vela Middle School, was named after my father who was a Brownsville native and served as a U.S. District Court Judge for the Southern District of Texas. The school district maintains a rich cultural heritage and prepares graduates to pursue higher education and careers including medicine, engineering, science, technology, mathematics, and law enforcement. BISD is also an active member of the U.S. Chess Federation, and is nationally recognized as one of the top chess programs in the nation. Several years ago, BISD students were featured on HBO's ``Real Sports'' with Bryant Gumbel showcasing the program. The school district is a powerhouse, taking students of all grade levels to compete in tournaments around the nation. Through rigorous academic programs such as early college high school, extracurricular activities ranging from band to estudiantina to actors guild, and highly competitive sports--whether football, soccer or swimming--BISD is leading its students, faculty and staff to new heights. BISD is a trailblazer in its own right and worthy of recognition as it reaches this important milestone. The continued growth in the student population and number of schools has not changed the original mission of BISD, which is to help students become better stewards of society. Mr. Speaker, this month Brownsville Independent School District celebrates its 100th Anniversary and prepares for the next 100 years with continued dedication to providing all students with a high quality education.

Mr. VELA

Mr. VELA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Juan Osorio Ortiz who has been named Mr. Amigo 2014. A Mexican television actor and producer, Juan Osorio Ortiz's distinguished career spans almost three decades. This year from February 22 through March 1, the cities of Brownsville, Texas, and Matamoros, Tamaulipas, will come together to celebrate the 78th Annual Charro Days Fiesta. Charro Days unites the bi-cultural, bi-literate and bi-national communities of Brownsville and Matamoros to commemorate our way of life and shared history and to celebrate the interconnectedness of our two communities. The Rio Grande, ``El Rio Bravo,'' on the southern border of the U.S. and Mexico binds our two communities--one region with family and friends living on both sides of the border. Over generations we have shared memories and built relationships that span beyond any line or boundary. The current security situation has strained our way of life, and those of us who frequented Matamoros to visit family and friends or to have dinner in the heart of the city have not been able to visit in a long time. In the face of today's challenges, the annual Charro Days Fiesta recommits the two communities to our valued friendship. We join in celebration of our shared past, customs, cultures and traditions, and to solidify our resolve for a better tomorrow. Every year, the Mr. Amigo Association Selection Committee names an individual who serves as a role model for the community. The recipient must be a Mexican citizen who has contributed to friendship and understanding between the U.S. and Mexico, and has excelled in their profession, exemplifying the highest standards in their personal and professional lives. Mr. Amigo 2014, Juan Osorio Ortiz, was born on June 24, 1957, in Mexico City. His passion for theatre started as a young boy when he would memorize all the lines and roles in school plays and fill in when someone was absent. At a young age, he went to televicentro, a training school for actors and actresses in Mexico. His interest in telenovelas, or soap operas, was sparked when he participated in ``El Amor Tiene Cara de Mujer.'' Working his way up the ladder in the entertainment industry, he began as a production assistant and had the opportunity to advance in 1986 when he stepped in as executive director on the soap opera ``La Gloria y El Infierno''. Juan Osorio Ortiz has been an executive producer of soap operas ever since. In the past 28 years, he has produced 24 soap operas, including ``Mi Corazon Es Tuyo,'' ``Una Familia Con Suerte,'' ``Tormenta en El Paraiso,'' ``Salome,'' ``Marisol,'' and ``Clarisa.'' Today, we honor Juan Osorio Ortiz for his years of work bringing real life issues to the small screen in a thoughtful and engaging way. I join Brownsville, Texas, and Matamoros, Tamaulipas in welcoming him to Charro Days.

Mr. VELA

Mr. VELA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor South Texas native Harlon Block. Seventy years ago, he was one of six men who were part of an iconic photo that would lift the spirits of an entire nation--the raising of the American flag on Iwo Jima. Born in Yorktown, Texas, in 1924, Corporal Block later moved with his family to Weslaco, Texas in the Rio Grande Valley. Harlon Block attended Weslaco High School, where he led the Weslaco Panther football team to a conference championship and was named All South Texas End. Before the end of his senior year, Corporal Block and seven of his teammates enlisted in the Marine Corps. As a result, the school accelerated their studies and held a special early graduation ceremony in January 1943. Harlon Block left for Marine Corps basic training in February 1943, and he then attended parachute training school. Corporal Block was assigned to the First Marine Parachute Regiment. After the Parachute Regiment was disbanded, he was transferred to Company E. Second Battalion, 28th Marines, Fifth Marine Division. On February 19, 1945, Corporal Block and his company took part in the invasion of the heavily defended island of Iwo Jima. One day into the battle, Corporal Block and the 28th Marines began their assault on Mount Suribachi, a 550-foot-high extinct volcano. After a three-day onslaught, the unit reached the top and defeated the last remaining Japanese defenders. Corporal Block, along with Sergeant Michael Strank, Corporal Rene Arthur Gagnon, Corporal Ira Hayes, Private First Class Franklin Runyon Sousley, and Pharmacist's Mate Second Class John ``Doc'' Bradley, defiantly raised the U.S. flag atop the mountain. Corporal Block guided the base of the pole into the volcanic ash while the others raised the flag upward. This is the scene that was captured in the famous photo at the Battle of Iwo Jima. Corporal Harlon Henry Block was killed in action on March 1, 1945 and never saw the famous photo. His remains were interred beside the Iwo Jima Memorial at the Marine Military Academy in Harlingen, Texas, which is a replica of the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial in Arlington, Virginia. On several occasions I have had the opportunity to visit the memorial located in my Congressional District, and each time I am moved by the courage and dedication of those who fought to win World War II. This memorial is a special place for the Rio Grande Valley, and serves as a reminder that our armed forces and our nation can overcome the greatest of odds. Today, we remember the bravery and valor of Corporal Block and all those who fought at the Battle of Iwo Jima.

Mr. VELA

Mr. VELA. Madam Speaker, I rise to bring attention to the massacre of 43 students in Mexico. Edmund Burke said: All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing. On September 26, students from a teacher training college visited Iguala, Mexico, to participate in a protest. According to media reports, the students were arrested by police forces and handed over to a criminal gang. Their burned bodies have reportedly been found discarded in a river. As The Washington Post reported yesterday: The demand to find the students and punish those responsible for their disappearance has broadened into a more diverse fury about corrupt politicians and their drug- trafficking cronies. Mexican prosecutors have formally charged former Iguala Mayor Jose Luis Abarca in the disappearance of the students. Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident. In the last several months, three constituent families of mine have been touched by murder in northern Mexico. I again call on the United States State Department to ensure that the Mexican Government thoroughly investigates these atrocities and that those responsible be brought to justice and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. The crises of human smuggling, drug smuggling, and illegal migration do not begin or end at the border. Resolving these matters requires that we address issues of economic development and cartel violence in Mexico and that we address the demand for narcotics in the United States, along with eliminating the presence of cartels in an estimated 1,000 U.S. cities. The leaders of the State Department in Washington, D.C., need to understand that this is one of the most pressing foreign policy issues confronting our Nation. Otherwise, evil will indeed triumph.

Mr. VELA

Mr. VELA. Mr. Speaker, I rise to bring attention to the violence in the state of Tamaulipas, Mexico. Last month, three of my constituents were murdered in northern Mexico. Erica Alvarado Salinas, Alex Alvarado, and Jose Angel Alvarado were visiting their father near Matamoros, Mexico, on the other side of my hometown of Brownsville, Texas. The siblings were abducted on October 13 by armed men. Their burned bodies were found on October 29 in a field in northern Mexico. Today I call on the United States State Department to ensure that the Mexican Government thoroughly investigates these heinous crimes and that those responsible be brought to justice and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. These cold-blooded murders demonstrate the brutal violence in northern Mexico. In a travel warning dated October of 2014, the State Department warns: Matamoros, Reynosa, Nuevo Laredo, and Ciudad Victoria have experienced numerous gun battles and attacks with explosive devices in the past year. Violent conflicts between rival criminal elements and/or the Mexican military can occur in all parts of the region and at all times of the day. The number of reported kidnappings for Tamaulipas is among the highest in Mexico, and the number of U.S. citizens reported to the consulates in Matamoros and Nuevo Laredo as being kidnapped, abducted, or disappearing involuntarily in the first half of 2014 has also increased. For the last century and a half, residents of northern Mexico and south Texas enjoyed a bicultural experience where crossing to work, eat, shop, or visit family and friends was a part of everyday life. This way of life has been ripped apart. We should demand that those whose criminal acts have destabilized Mexico be held responsible. Martin Luther King said, ``Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.'' Our country must ensure that those who murdered Erica, Alex, and Jose be brought to justice.

Mr. VELA

Mr. VELA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to urge the inclusion of additional funding for Alzheimer's research in the National Institutes of Health's budget. This disease affects over 5 million Americans, and every 67 seconds, someone develops Alzheimer's. The impact on these patients and their families is immense, and Congress must act now to ensure needed funding is available to researchers willing to understand, treat, and cure Alzheimer's. As the Appropriations Committee drafts spending legislation for the current fiscal year, it is critical that the NIH budget include an initial $200 million for Alzheimer's research. The requirement for this funding was validated by the National Alzheimer's Plan, a comprehensive congressionally-directed initiative which serves as a blueprint to ensure that taxpayer dollars are carefully invested in medical research. One in three seniors who die each year have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's or dementia, and the Centers for Disease Control notes that it is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. In addition to the terrible toll on individuals, the costs of treating Alzheimer's will cost over $214 billion this year. With so much at stake, an investment of $200 million in 2015 is clearly justified, and we must also continue to provide funding for Alzheimer's research in future years. On behalf of south Texas families affected by Alzheimer's, I urge my colleagues in Congress to support increased funding for Alzheimer's research.

Mr. VELA

Mr. VELA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to urge the inclusion of additional funding for Alzheimer's research in the National Institute of Health's (NIH) budget. This disease affects over 5 million Americans, and every 67 seconds someone develops Alzheimer's. The impact on these patients and their families is immense, and Congress must act now to ensure needed funding is available to researchers working to better understand, treat, and cure Alzheimer's. As the Appropriations Committee drafts spending legislation for the current fiscal year, it is critical that the NIH budget include an additional $200 million for Alzheimer's research. The requirement for this funding was validated by the National Alzheimer's Plan, a comprehensive Congressionally-directed initiative which serves as a blueprint to ensure that taxpayer dollars are carefully invested in medical research. One in three seniors who die each year have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's or dementia, and the Center for Disease Control notes that it is the 6th leading cause of death in the United States. In addition to the terrible toll on individuals, the cost of treating Alzheimer's will cost over $214 billion this year. With so much at stake, an investment of $200 million in 2015 is clearly justified, and we must also continue to provide funding for Alzheimer's research in future years. On behalf of South Texas families affected by Alzheimer's, I urge my colleagues in Congress to support increased funding for Alzheimer's research.