Beth Van Duyne

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, the J.J. Pearce High School swim team. They demonstrated the power of community by rallying behind a mission to support their custodian Van Hua Le. The team learned that Le was experiencing health issues which left him out of work for weeks, and they felt called to use their talents to support him. To help, the swim team organized a Swim-A-Thon, inviting friends, families, and neighbors to pledge donations for laps completed. By the end of the event, they had swam over 4,000 meters and collected $18,000 for their custodian. Their kindness did not stop there. Afterwards, the team gifted Van Hua Le with a new car and bicycle to assist with his six mile commute and set up a GoFundMe campaign for him as well. I thank the J.J. Pearce High School swim team for showing North Texas what it means to lift one another up in difficult times. Their compassion inspires us all.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Gus Cabarcas, a veteran who served as a Combat Medic in the U.S. Army at Fort Hood before continuing his career of service as a Sergeant with the NYPD. After over two decades in public service, Gus brought his passion for helping others to Combined Arms where he served as the North Texas Regional Coordinator and has been an Organizer for Veteran In Business. During his time at Combined Arms, Gus worked hard to serve veterans in our North Texas community and connect them with the resources to successfully transition and thrive after military service. Through his leadership and dedication, he helped strengthen the veterans community across the region. I thank Gus for his continued impact and unwavering support for our veteran community. His dedication is a shining example for us all.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Chief Kevin Richardson, the longtime Coppell Fire Department Chief. Earlier this year, he officially retired after years of public service to our North Texas community. Chief Richardson Joined the department in 1993 and since his promotion to Fire Chief in 2006, the fire department has been performing at an unprecedented level of excellence. Under his leadership, two new fire stations were built, the department achieved and maintained the highest Public Protection Classification rating from the Insurance Services Office, and every firefighter in the department became certified as an emergency medical technician. As Coppell experienced rapid growth, Chief Richardson ensured the fire department grew stronger. The Coppell mayor, city council members, and firefighters have expressed their immense praise for him. I thank Chief Richardson for his leadership of an exceptional fire department and decades of public service. His work has saved lives and kept the Coppell community safe. We wish him the very best in his well- deserved retirement.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Magda Hernandez, she has served as Irving ISD Superintendent for the past eight years and announced her retirement in December 2026. With eight years leading Irving ISD and 34 years in public education, her career reflects a deep commitment to our North Texas students and schools. Hernandez began her journey in Irving ISD as a bilingual aide and went on to serve in many roles from a teacher, to Assistant Principal, and District Administrator, before becoming the district's first female Superintendent. Her leadership has made a lasting, positive impact on public education in the Irving community and beyond. During her time as Superintendent, Hernandez has remained focused on helping students succeed and continuing to move the district forward. She has received numerous awards recognizing her outstanding career. Even after becoming eligible for retirement, Hernandez chose to continue serving, wanting to help the district continue improving. She has described her time at Irving ISD as one of the greatest honors of her life. We thank Magda Hernandez for her commitment to our community and the legacy she leaves behind.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Linda Custard. She demonstrated generosity and support for our North Texas community, and her alma mater, Southern Methodist University (SMU). Her life reflected a deep commitment to the arts, education, and civic engagement. She sadly passed away earlier this year, on January 22, 2026. Custard began at SMU as a speech arts student before earning her undergraduate degree from Mills College and later returning to SMU to complete her MBA at the Cox School of Business. She assumed several leadership roles, including serving on the SMU Board of Trustees. She also played a key role in advancing the Meadows School of the Arts and the Meadows Museum, contributing meaningfully to the university and the wider community. Custard was committed to helping initiatives that advanced the arts and education. She received awards recognizing her leadership and philanthropy at SMU, including the Cox School of Business Distinguished Alumni Award, the SMU Students' Association's Outstanding Trustee Award, the SMU Distinguished Alumni Award, and the Mustang Award. She was known for her dedication, influence, and passion for giving back. We thank Linda Pitts Custard for her service to our North Texas community and the lasting impression she leaves behind.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Aliza Tharani. Aliza is a Euless native who combines academic excellence with a strong interest in science. After graduating at the top of her class from Colleyville Heritage High School, she began her undergraduate studies at Johns Hopkins University, where she is pursuing a degree in Neuroscience. Aliza has served as an Undergraduate Research Assistant in both the Mysore Lab, studying brain pathways, and the Jantzie Lab in Neurosurgery. She has also shadowed in transplant nephrology at UT Southwestern, gaining valuable exposure to patient-centered care. In addition to her academic work, Aliza has given back to the community by volunteering with A Place to Talk (suicide-prevention peer support), serving as a First Aid Attendant with the Jubilee Monument Corp., and participating as a National Alzheimer's Buddies volunteer. Recognized for her achievements, Aliza is an ISEF Finalist, a National Honor Society Scholarship Semifinalist, and the recipient of multiple awards. Through her scholarship and service, she reflects the values of Euless and serves as a positive example for our community.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Officer Tonard ``Tee'' Warmsley, a dedicated school resource officer at Coppell ISD. After serving in the U.S. Army, Officer Warmsley joined the City of Coppell Police Department in 2007, and has served in roles ranging from patrol officer to detective, and now as a School Resource Officer. In 2017, he was named Texas School Resource Officer of the Year by the Texas Association of School Resource Officers and continues to serve as a regional co-director, supporting officers across North Texas. His impact is best seen through his mentorship of students, like Coppell High School graduate Modjet Brown Jr., whom he has guided since middle school. From stepping in on Senior Night to standing beside him as he took his oath to join the U.S. Army. Officer Warmsley has consistently shown what it means to show up for North Texans. His commitment reflects a deep belief that mentorship can change lives and that every student deserves someone who believes in them. I thank Officer Tonard ``Tee'' Warmsley for his dedication and for making a meaningful difference in the lives of students and families across North Texas.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Heros, Mrs. Dillen, Mrs. Hensley, Mrs. Eimers, and Mrs. Landolfa at Forest Vista Elementary School in Flower Mound. In their classrooms, they foster a welcoming environment where every child feels valued and encouraged to learn. Through their dedication, they support both academic growth and the confidence of their students. At Forest Vista Elementary, they go above and beyond to ensure that every child feels seen and supported. Their impact was especially meaningful during Purple Up Day on April 15th, also known as Military Child Day, when they wore purple to honor military children and presented a student with a special recognition certificate. This heartfelt gesture demonstrated their deep understanding of the sacrifices military families make and their commitment to celebrating the strength and resilience of their students. Their actions reflect the best of what our North Texas schools offer, including creating a classroom community, and encouragement at the foundational stages of a child's education. I thank Mrs. Dillen, Mrs. Hensley, Mrs. Eimers, and Mrs. Landolfa, for their unwavering dedication to their students and for the meaningful difference they make every single day at Forest Vista Elementary School.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, the Dragon Pit Masters of Carroll ISD. The Dragon Pit Masters have earned the title of Grand Champion at the Texas High School BBQ State Championship, showcasing exceptional skill, teamwork, and dedication. Competing against top student teams from across the state, these talented students demonstrated mastery in grilling, presentation, and time management to take home the highest honor. Through countless hours of preparation, the Dragon Pit Masters have built a program that emphasizes leadership, collaboration, and excellence both inside and outside the competition. Representing the Southlake community with pride, these students continue to set a high standard and inspire others through their achievements. Congratulations to Carroll's Grand Champion Team, Preston Inouye-- 12th Grade, Darien Kawai--11th Grade, Caden Roberson--12th Grade, Cruz Paredes--10th Grade, and Ryan Vu--12th Grade.

Ms VAN DUYNE

Ms VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, the North Texas Patriot Guard Riders. They are a dedicated volunteer organization that honors the service and sacrifice of America's military members, veterans, and first responders. At the invitation of families, the group attends funeral services for fallen heroes across North Texas, participating in an average of 35 missions each month. Their members come from all backgrounds, some are veterans themselves, and while many ride motorcycles, others drive cars or trucks. What unites them is a shared commitment to showing respect for those who served our country and communities. The Flag Line is their most revered symbol, embodying the Patriot Guard Riders' values of honor, appreciation, and respect. When asked, they display American flags outside funeral homes and at burial sites to pay tribute to these heroes. The North Texas Patriot Guard Riders provide these services at no cost, exemplifying the spirit of service, patriotism, and community that represents the very best of North Texas.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, the Jesuit Dallas Rangers lacrosse team, as earlier this year they won the 2026 Texas High School Lacrosse League Class AA State Championships. Fueled by championship grit, and a never-quit mentality, the Rangers battled through adversity and upset higher-seeded opponents on their way to bringing home the state title. Senior goalie, Gabriel James, was named the Defensive Most Valuable Player after making 11 saves against the Highlanders, and Senior David Atwell earned the Offensive MVP and Senior Jack Steinbach was the Championship MVP. Congratulations to Coach Chris Surran, the players, coaches, and families on securing the program's fifth state championship and continuing a tradition of excellence both on and off the field.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, C.J. Alexander as the new Fire Chief of the Addison Fire Department, stepping into the role after seven years with the department after serving as the Assistant Chief. With over 24 years of experience in fire and emergency medical services, Chief Alexander brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the department. Before joining Addison, he held leadership roles in Farmers Branch and Allen and spent more than a decade teaching fire and EMS courses at Collin College. Throughout his career, he has remained committed to protecting our North Texas communities. Surrounded by colleagues, friends, and community members at his sweating-in ceremony, the strong turnout reflected the respect and trust he has earned throughout his time serving Addison. He is known for his commitment to public service and for preparing teams to respond when it matters most.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I use to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Dr. Chandramallika Basak, a neuroscience professor and researcher at University of Texas at Dallas who's on a mission to protect seniors' memories. Dr. Basak studies how cognitive and physical training, from targeted exercises to meditation, can slow cognitive decline in older adults. She's best known for pioneering the use of video games as brain training for seniors experiencing mild cognitive aging. Her research sparked a startup, Neuroflight Inc., founded with support from UT Dallas' Big Idea Competition and the Darrell K. Royal Alzheimer's Research Fund. The company's patented brain training game helps boost memory, focus, and cognitive vitality--and is already partnering with local assisted living facilities like Belmont Village. In 2026, Dr. Basak was named University Innovator of the Year at the Texas Innovation Conference. She is now working on a consumer app to bring Neuroflight's brain training to everyone.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, the Keller Indians baseball team as the Texas High School State Champions for the first time in program history. On June 6, they secured the Class 6A Division 1 title with a 2-1 victory over Austin Lake Travis. Led by Championship MVP Cole Koeninger, a Tennessee signee and MLB draft prospect, Keller completed an incredible season with a 40-4-2 overall record. The title concludes Head Coach Rob Stramp's remarkable 28-year career and serves as a testament to the dedication and leadership he brought to Keller Baseball. Congratulations to the Keller High School Indians on this historic achievement, which reflects the talent, hard work, and commitment of the entire program.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Chief David Jones, whose career reflected a profound dedication to public safety, with 31 years in the fire service, including 28 serving the Town of Addison. Chief Jones started at the Addison Fire Department in 1998 as a firefighter and licensed paramedic before being promoted to various roles. As Chief, he oversaw 59 employees in the department and managed operations, fire prevention, training, and compliance. Jones was recognized with a Chief Fire Officer designation and holds a four-time Chief Training Officer redesignation, reflecting his excellence in leadership. His guidance and impact will shape the Addison Fire Department for years to come. I thank Chief Jones for his service in the Addison Fire Department and for helping to keep North Texas safe.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Bedford resident and World War II veteran, Vito Defino. Vito was drafted for World War II only one month after graduating high school. When given the choice between the Army Air Corps or Navy, he chose to fly, serving at various bases across the country as a right wing gunner on the B-29 Superfortress. Throughout his time, Vito was promoted to Corporal and then Sergeant in only 14 months. During WWII, he met Mary, his future wife, who was working in military intelligence, and they were both honorably discharged on the same day. Following WWII, Vito earned his degree in education, while working evenings at General Electric. Throughout his career, Vito poured into the students with various roles as a math teacher, physical education coach, and later a vice principal for 30 years. Vito is currently 100 years old and lives in Texas with his daughter, Dee, and her family. I thank Vito Defino for his service to our Nation and for being an inspiration to those around him.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Dallas native, Nina Castro. A 25-year veteran Southwest Airlines flight attendant who went above and beyond when answering the call of duty. On a standard flight from Omaha to Phoenix, Castro met 77-year old passenger, Patrick McGee, who called her ``an angel''. Later in the flight, McGee would suffer a medical emergency. I thank Ms. Castro and her fellow flight attendant's swift action, as they were able to save Mr. McGee when he suffered a heart attack. Ms. Castro described that everybody was in the right place, at the right time. She has since been able to connect with Mr. McGee, who, again, called her an angel, and they are looking forward to an in-person reunion. I thank Ms. Castro for showcasing the very best of North Texas.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Arbor Creek Elementary School teacher, Anquinette Hill. Mrs. Hill was recently named Region 11 Elementary Teacher of the Year. Mrs. Hill has dedicated over 16 years to teaching, pouring into students and staff alike. She is known for always having a smile, and going above and beyond to provide new STEAM-based projects and opportunities to students. Nominees submitted a professional portfolio that included a resume, professional biography, and essays describing their instructional philosophy, contributions to school culture, community engagement, leadership experiences, and vision for the teaching profession. This award puts Mrs. Hill in the running for the State of Texas Teacher of the Year, which will be announced within the coming weeks. I congratulate Mrs. Hill on her recognition and for serving students across North Texas.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero. Detective Scott Hodgins, who recently retired from years of dedicated service to the Irving Police Department. Detective Hodgins began as a Patrol Officer before transitioning to a Detective in the Crimes Against Children Unit. In that role, he helped protect the most vulnerable members of society and help bring victims to justice. During his time, he earned a Certificate of Merit Bar, and hosted a podcast called ``The Case Reopened'', where he examined cold cases with a detective's insight. I thank Detective Hodgins for his service to the Irving Police Department and helping keep North Texas safe.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker. I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Clayton and Ellen Kershaw, who have been named the 2026 University Park Citizens of the Year in recognition of their commitment to serving others and making a lasting impact on their community and beyond. This award honors University Park residents who enhance the city's quality of life, often through service, generosity, and leadership. Since the launch of Kershaw's Challenge in 2011, the Kershaw's have supported vulnerable and at-risk children in Dallas, Los Angeles, Zambia, and the Dominican Republic by providing hope, resources, and opportunities for a brighter future. Through Kershaw's Challenge, the couple has used their platform to empower communities and create opportunities for children and families in need. Clayton, a graduate of Highland Park High School and a former pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers, has also been recognized for his humanitarian efforts with the Roberto Clemente Award. Together, Clayton and Ellen continue to inspire others through their dedication to creating meaningful change.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Southlake Police Department Corporal Joshua Swisher. He was recently honored with the Meritorious Conduct Award, the department's second-highest honor, recognizing his exceptional courage and lifesaving actions in the line of duty. Corporal Swisher was recognized for his response to a vehicle fire on State Highway 114, where he helped rescue a driver trapped inside a burning vehicle. After the car caught fire, Corporal Swisher acted quickly, breaking the window and pulling the driver to safety before the car became fully engulfed in flames. His bravery and commitment to protecting others reflect the dedication and service our first responders provide to our communities every day. I thank Corporal Joshua Swisher for his courage and service to North Texas.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Fort Worth Christian's Grady Emerson, who was the second overall pick in the 2026 MLB Draft, selected by the Tampa Bay Rays. During an impressive senior season, he was named Gatorade National Player of the Year and Baseball America's High School Player of the Year, leading Fort Worth Christian to the TAPPS Division II state championship game. He became the fourth Dallas-Fort Worth area high school player selected in the top 10 of the MLB Draft this century. Additionally, he became the second high school player in the history of USA Baseball's Golden Spikes Award to be named a semifinalist, joining MLB superstar Bobby Witt, Jr. Grady Emerson also made history as the first player to compete on multiple USA Baseball 15U and 18U National Teams, earning three gold medals. Recognized for his exceptional hitting, athleticism, and overall skill, he is regarded as one of the top high school prospects in recent years I congratulate Grady. North Texas is cheering him on in his next chapter.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Dr. Neal Odle, as for more than 50 years, he has built a legacy of education, leadership, and service in North Texas. He was recently honored with Grapevine-Colleyville Independent School District's Walk of Honor, recognizing individuals whose lasting contributions have shaped the community. After graduating from the University of North Texas, where he earned his bachelor's, master's, and later a Doctor of Education degree, Dr. Odle began his career in 1971 as a fifth-grade teacher at Colleyville Elementary School before later serving as the school's principal. In 1986, he opened O.C. Taylor Elementary School, where he served until his retirement, helping lead Grapevine-Colleyville ISD to its first Elementary National Blue Ribbon School designation awarded by the U.S. Department of Education. Throughout his career, Dr. Odle was named Teacher of the Year and received numerous honors, including the National Association of Elementary Principals Award for excellence in education and the Jim Thompson Award for exemplary achievement in education. Even in retirement, Dr. Odle has remained committed to serving his community. Through the Grapevine Volunteers in Police Service program, he has dedicated more than 499 hours, earning the President's Volunteer Silver Service Award. He also serves as an elder and community group leader at Compass Christian Church and enjoys building sets for musicals and for mission outreach programs, both locally and in Mexico. Through decades of leadership, service, and dedication to students, Dr. Odle has made an impact on the Grapevine and Colleyville communities. I congratulate Dr. Odle on the GCISD Walk of Honor.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Heroes, Cecilia Nipp, Angel Chinuntdet, and Phoebe Butler, three educators from Dallas who are representing North Texas on one of the world's biggest stages. Cecilia Nipp, Angel Chinuntdet, and Phoebe Butler of Ursuline Academy were selected as FIFA World Cup 2026 Host City Ambassadors after a highly competitive process that drew more than 33,000 applicants for just over 5,000 volunteer positions. Stationed at the FIFA Fan Festival at Fair Park, they are helping create a welcoming experience for visitors from around the world. For them, the event is about more than volunteering, it is a chance to share their love for the community and showcase the hospitality that defines North Texas. Their dedication to service extends beyond their professional roles as they inspire others through leadership, cultural connection, and community pride. I thank Cecilia, Angel, and Phoebe, for representing North Texas through their service, leadership, and warm welcome to fans from around the world.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Officer Monique Hall. She has dedicated over 25 years to protecting, supporting, and uplifting the Bedford community. She currently works for the Bedford Police Department's Behavioral Intervention Unit, serving as an advocate for victims of domestic violence while helping connect them with the resources they need. Her advocacy work is part of broader efforts in Northeast Tarrant County to prevent domestic violence and reduce repeat offenses through proactIve intervention programs. Since joining the Bedford Police Department in 1999, Officer Hall has served as a Public Service Officer, Patrol Officer, and School Resource Officer. She is also a member of the department's Hostage Negotiations Team and Crisis/Peer Support Team. Through her compassion, dedication, and commitment to helping others, Officer Hall has made a lasting impact on their lives. I congratulate Monique on this well-deserved recognition.