Beth Van Duyne

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Dr. William ``Bill'' Acree, Jr. for his longstanding dedication to mentoring student researchers. Dr. Acree has been named the 2026 Council on Undergraduate Research (CUR) Goldwater Scholars Faculty Mentor Award recipient. A professor of chemistry at the University of North Texas (UNT) and a UNT faculty member since 1988, Dr. Acree has combined decades of research with an unwavering commitment to student mentorship and fostering scientific excellence. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry and the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry and previously served as co-editor of the Journal of Chemical Thermodynamics. He has mentored more than 250 undergraduate and high school students, helping them earn prestigious honors, including the Goldwater Scholarship, and inspiring them to pursue impactful careers in STEM and beyond. Dr. Acree's dedication to student success and advancing undergraduate research reflects the lasting impact of a true mentor. I congratulate him on this well-deserved honor.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, AT&T Dallas Volunteers. In a remarkable display of teamwork and community spirit, 633 AT&T employees from across North Texas came together at the AT&T Discovery District in Dallas to break not one, but two Guinness World Records: the Most Backpacks Packed in an Hour and the Most People Simultaneously Stuffing Backpacks. Their collective efforts resulted in over 10,000 backpacks filled with essential school supplies, from pens and notebooks to headphones, and even laptops for qualifying families. The event showcased great volunteerism, as team members from across the region united to make a tangible impact. I thank everyone who dedicated their time to making a real difference in our community.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Grapevine High School Baseball Team. The Grapevine Mustangs Baseball Team clinched their second consecutive state title at the UIL 5A Division II State Championship in Round Rock, Texas. With a 9-5 victory over Humble Kingwood Park High School, the Mustangs became the first UIL 5A team to go back-to-back since 2003. Throughout the season, the team displayed incredible resilience, teamwork, and sportsmanship representing North Texas well. With the strong leadership of Head Coach Jimmy Webster, Grapevine finished with an impressive 36-3 record and ranked number 1 in the Texas High School Coaches Association Rankings. The Mustangs' hard-fought championship run is more than just a victory on a field, it is a testament to their dedication and commitment. I congratulate the players, coaches, and families on this unforgettable season. The Grapevine High School Mustangs Baseball Team has given us in Texas-24 something to celebrate.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Assistant Police Chief Kevin Palmer. Kevin lived a life of service, an Air Force veteran, dedicated public servant, and a respected leader in the North Richland Hills community. His journey of service began in the Air Force before he joined the North Richland Hills Police Department in 2004. Over the next two decades he rose through the ranks to become Assistant Police Chief in 2023, overseeing patrol, traffic, SWAT, and criminal investigations. Throughout his career in public service, he received more than 40 police service awards, graduated from the FBI National Academy's 283rd session, and graduate of the PERF--Senior Management Institute of Police. His absence is felt throughout the community today, Kevin's legacy lives on through the many men and women he mentored, and the community he served with dedication and heart. Assistant Chief Kevin Palmer served with honor and led with an unwavering commitment. We are thankful for his sacrifice and we will never forget the legacy he leaves behind. May his memory continue to inspire us all.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Chief Justin Ball. Dallas Fire-Rescue has named a new fire chief, Justin Ball, a veteran of the department with nearly three decades of service to North Texas. Chief Ball began his journey with Dallas Fire-Rescue in 1997, and has worn many hats throughout his time with the department, starting as Firefighter Paramedic, to Executive Assistant Chief of Operations, and most recently serving as the Interim Chief, before being named as Chief permanently. Through dedication, leadership, and commitment to public service, he earned the trust of the department, city leadership, and most importantly, the people of North Texas. I congratulate Chief Justin Ball on his well-deserved new role. His leadership and commitment to keeping our communities safe is appreciated by Texas-24 and all of North Texas.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Dr. Brad Hunt. After 35 years in public education, including eight years as Superintendent of Coppell ISD, Dr. Brad Hunt is set to retire at the end of the school year. Starting as a teacher at Coppell High School in 1990, he went on to serve as principal and then superintendent. His leadership has helped shape Coppell ISD into one of the most respected school districts in Texas. Dr. Hunt has inspired generations of students, supported countless educators, and left a lasting mark on every campus in the district. His dedication to student success and his vision for excellence have touched thousands of lives, and his impact will be felt for years to come. I thank Dr. Hunt, for his incredible service, his belief in our North Texas students, and his commitment to Coppell. We wish him the very best in his next chapter.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Cason Wallace. Cason, a Dallas native and Richardson High School alumni, recently helped lead the Oklahoma Thunder to a NBA Championship. In the Game 7 victory, he contributed 10 points and 3 steals in 26 minutes played. His championship win is not just a personal victory, but a proud moment for the entire community that have watched him play in Richardson throughout the years. From the beginning of his athletic career at Richardson High School to his collegiate success at the University of Kentucky, and now a world champion on the NBA stage, his roots in North Texas remain strong, continuing to inspire young athletes across our community. I thank Cason for showing us what it means to lead with heart and hustle. Cason has given North Texas something unforgettable to celebrate, and we look forward to watching his NBA career continue.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Ashlea Quinonez. Ashlea is a North Texas native and accomplished leader with an impressive career in politics, government, and healthcare. She was recently appointed as Regional Administrator for Region VI of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. In this role, she will be based out of Fort Worth, and represent Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, New Mexico, and Arkansas. Ashlea's interest in politics began when she was just seven years old when she helped stuff envelopes with campaign letters for a family friend that was seeking county office. A graduate of Texas A&M with a B.S. in Political Science, she went to work for former Senator Phil Gramm. Her career has led her to working for a North Texas political party, running a district office for a member of Congress, and working in government relations for the Memorial Hermann Health System. Through her service on numerous boards and task forces across Texas, Ashlea has left a lasting impact on our communities across the state. I congratulate Ashlea on her new role and thank her for her continued commitment to serving others in North Texas and across the country.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, HerStory Gallery. As wildfires continue to displace families and destroy homes in California, the need for aid is greater than ever. HerStory Gallery, a North Texas store dedicated to empowering and uplifting women, has stepped up in an incredible way. Their latest initiative embodies the spirit of compassion and service--organizing donation drops in HerStory locations across our community to support those affected by the devastating fires. Joining forces with Revell with a Cause, Giving Generously, and the L.A. Dream Center, HerStory cleared floor space at their galleries in Dallas and Fort Worth to make room for donations and rallied our community to provide essential supplies such as non-perishable food, clothing, hygiene products, and emergency relief items for those impacted. Their efforts remind us that, even from miles away, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in crisis. I thank HerStory Gallery for leading with heart and showing what it truly means to serve others through their generosity and compassion.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, University Emergency Medical Response at UT Dallas. The University Emergency Medical Response (UEMR) of the University of Texas at Dallas was recently recognized as the Collegiate EMS Organization of the Year for 2025 at the National Collegiate EMS Foundation Conference. Since being founded in 2017 by just two students, UEMR at UT Dallas has grown into an award winning team of over 90 volunteers who are certified as EMTs, Advanced EMTs, and paramedics. These volunteers answer over 500 emergency calls, support over 65 events each year. In addition to keeping the campus community safe, UEMR provides training to over 350 students annually through EMT and paramedic courses. With their seventh recognition, we are happy to celebrate their commitment to keeping the UT Dallas community safe.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Chief Daniel Comeaux. Daniel Comeaux is the new Chief of Police for the City of Dallas, bringing more than three decades of law enforcement experience to North Texas. Chief Comeaux began his career with the Houston Police Department in 1991 before joining the DEA, where he eventually served as the Special Agent in Charge of the Houston Field Division. Over his 33 years of service, he has led major operations across the country, including along the Southern border, and achieved significant results, such as a 40 percent reduction in overdose deaths in Laredo, Texas. He is an experienced leader known for his collaborative and community-focused approach. I congratulate Chief Comeaux, and welcome him to North Texas. I wish him the very best as he takes the helm of the Dallas Police Department and leads it into a new era of service and excellence.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Officer Trey Toney on his retirement from the Grapevine Police Department after 25 years of service. With decades in law enforcement, Officer Toney has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to public safety and serving our North Texas community. Officer Toney began his law enforcement career in 1994 with the Texarkana Police Department, where he served as a Patrol Officer before joining the Housing Projects and Gang Unit. In 2001, he joined the Grapevine Police Department and went on to serve the community in numerous capacities throughout his distinguished career. During his time with the Grapevine Police Department, Officer Toney served in Patrol and spent a decade in the Motor Unit before transitioning to Commercial Vehicle Enforcement, where he developed specialized expertise and worked to ensure the safety of Grapevine's roadways. In 2023, he transitioned into a new role as a School Resource Officer, continuing his commitment to public service by fostering positive relationships between law enforcement and students, staff, and families. Over the past two years, Officer Toney has served at Grapevine Elementary, where his daily commitment to safety and building trust has made a lasting impact on the school community. I thank Officer Toney for his decades of service in protecting and serving others and wish him all the best as he begins his well-earned retirement.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Senior Police Officer Steven Snyder on the occasion of his retirement from the Euless Police Department. Officer Snyder has dedicated his life to service. Before beginning his career in law enforcement, he served our Nation as a Gunnery Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps from 1972 to 1994. Following his military service, he joined the City of Euless in July 1999 as a Police Officer and was promoted to Senior Police OffIcer in May 2003. Throughout his career, he has served with distinction as a Detective and Crime Scene Investigator. Officer Snyder's commitment to public safety, professionalism, and excellence has left a lasting impact on the Euless community. His extensive training in crime scene investigation, counterterrorism, gang intelligence, forensic pathology, and emergency response reflects his dedication to continually strengthening his ability to serve and protect others. In 2011, Officer Snyder was named Euless Police Officer of the Year, and he has received numerous letters of commendation throughout his career. His dedication to service also extends beyond the department through his involvement with organizations including the Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion, Brotherhood of the Fallen, Masonic Lodge, Scottish Rite, and Shriners. I thank Officer Steven Snyder for his many years of honorable service to our Nation, the City of Euless, and the people of North Texas. I congratulate him on his well-earned retirement and wish him all the best in this next chapter.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Honorable William D. Tate as he celebrates his Golden Jubilee of service to the City of Grapevine, Texas. A native of Grapevine, Mayor Tate grew up along the city's historic Main Street and developed a deep appreciation for its heritage, character, and people. For more than fifty years, he has served his community with steadfast leadership. integrity, and an unwavering commitment to preserving the qualities that make Grapevine unique. Throughout his distinguished tenure. Mayor Tate has played an instrumental role in protecting Grapevine's historic charm while thoughtfully guiding its growth into the vibrant and thriving community it is today. His leadership has encouraged economic development, strengthened civic pride, and helped establish Grapevine as a destination recognized throughout Texas and beyond. In addition to his service as Mayor, William D. Tate is a respected attorney, historian, and storyteller whose knowledge and passion have enriched the cultural fabric of Grapevine. As one of the longest- serving mayors in the United States, his remarkable legacy reflects a rare and enduring dedication to public service. Mayor Tate's Golden Jubilee represents far more than a milestone of years served. It is a celebration of a lifetime devoted to the citizens of Grapevine and of the profound impact his leadership has had on the identity and success of the city. I congratulate Mayor Tate on his Golden Jubilee and thank him for his extraordinary service and enduring commitment to the Grapevine community.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 8873, the Recover COVID Unemployment Fraud in Banks Act, which I was proud to introduce with the gentleman from New York (Mr. Suozzi), my bipartisan partner. This commonsense legislation creates a Federal task force to work with States to recover unspent Federal pandemic unemployment funds that remain frozen in financial institutions and return those taxpayer dollars to the U.S. Treasury, but Congress must act quickly. Last December, the Department of Labor's Office of Inspector General issued two fraud alerts identifying nearly $1 billion in unspent Federal unemployment funds frozen by banks because of suspected fraud. Those funds are now sitting on millions of prepaid debit cards that States used to distribute supplemental unemployment benefits during the pandemic. More than 6 years later, many of these accounts have simply been forgotten. They remain unreconciled by State workforce agencies and, in many cases, have even been transferred to State unclaimed property divisions, making recovery even that much more difficult. Without congressional action, hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars could be lost permanently. The Committee on Ways and Means has made combating pandemic unemployment fraud a top priority. Earlier this year, the Subcommittee on Work and Welfare held a hearing that examined the scope of this problem and the consequences of failing to act. During that hearing, the Department of Labor Inspector General testified that the fraud alerts covered prepaid debit card accounts across 21 States and that more than $200 million in suspected fraudulent funds have already been transferred into State unclaimed property programs. H.R. 8873 addresses this problem by establishing a Federal task force, led by a national recovery coordinator, to partner with States in identifying, recovering, and returning those Federal unemployment dollars to taxpayers. The bill also extends the statute of limitations for prosecuting pandemic unemployment fraud from 5 years to 10 years. This provision mirrors H.R. 1156, the Pandemic Unemployment Fraud Enforcement Act, which passed the House last year with bipartisan support. Federal investigators are still actively pursuing hundreds of pandemic fraud cases. Since October 2025 alone, the Department of Labor Inspector General has brought 59 criminal matters to prosecution, resulting in charges against 131 individuals and more than $16 million in recoveries. Extending the statute of limitations ensures prosecutors have the time they need to hold fraudsters accountable. This legislation has earned bipartisan support from the National Association of State Workforce Agencies, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the Taxpayers Protection Alliance, and Strategic Services on Unemployment & Workers' Compensation. Every dollar stolen through fraud is a dollar that cannot serve hardworking Americans or reduce our Nation's debt. It is not too late to recover these taxpayer funds, and it is not too late to hold criminals accountable. H.R. 8873 gives us the tools to do both. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bipartisan legislation.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Officer Richard Weber of the Grapevine Police Department on the occasion of his retirement after more than 29 years of dedicated service in law enforcement. Throughout his distinguished career, Officer Weber has demonstrated professionalism, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to protecting the citizens of North Texas. Officer Weber began his law enforcement career in 1991 and joined the Grapevine Police Department in 1996. Much of his career was dedicated to the Criminal Investigations Unit, where he focused on Crimes Against Children, reflecting his deep commitment to protecting the most vulnerable members of the community. In addition to serving as a patrol officer and investigator, Officer Weber was a member of the Grapevine Emergency Response Team, serving as a Sniper/Marksman and later as Sniper Team Leader. He also specialized in computer forensics and cell phone investigations, earning certification as a Forensic Computer Examiner. After obtaining his Master Peace Officer License in 2005, Officer Weber later transitioned into the role of School Resource Officer, where he continued serving and mentoring students and families in the Grapevine community. His dedication to youth earned him the Friend of the Children Award in 2024 and the Texas PTA Honorary Life Membership Award in 2025. Officer Richard Weber's commitment to public service has left a lasting impact on the Grapevine community. I extend my sincere gratitude and best wishes to him as he begins his well-earned retirement.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Police Corporal Marco Valladares for his outstanding service to the City of Euless as he retires after more than three decades in law enforcement and a lifetime dedicated to serving others. Before joining the Euless Police Department, Corporal Valladares proudly served in the United States Marine Corps from 1982 to 1990 as a RADAR Technician on the F-4 Phantom Jet Fighter, earning an Honorable Discharge for his service to our Nation. Throughout his distinguished career with the Euless Police Department, Corporal Valladares served in numerous roles, including Patrol Officer, Gang Officer, SWAT Officer, Bicycle Patrol Officer, Field Training Officer, Criminal Investigator, and School Resource Officer. Promoted to Police Corporal in 1993, he served with professionalism and integrity for more than 30 years. Among his many contributions, Corporal Valladares established the Euless Bicycle Patrol Program, strengthening relationships between officers and the community through neighborhood policing efforts. He also served on the Euless SWAT Team for more than a decade and later became a SWAT Hostage Negotiator and Criminal Investigator, bringing steady leadership to some of the department's most difficult situations. Since 2012, Corporal Valladares has served as the School Resource Officer at Central Junior High School, where he became a trusted mentor and role model to countless students and families in the Euless community. A dedicated public servant and lifelong learner, Corporal Valladares earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Criminal Justice, Summa Cum Laude, from Columbia College and obtained numerous advanced certifications throughout his career, including his Texas Master Peace Officer License. I thank Police Corporal Marco Valladares for his leadership and unwavering commitment to protecting and serving others and wish him all the best in his well-deserved retirement.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and warmly welcome the 8th grade class of WiIIiam B. Travis Vanguard & Academy for the Talented and Gifted--known as Travis TAG--from Dallas, Texas, as they visit our Nation's Capital from May 1 through May 4, 2026. This outstanding group of 83 students, accompanied by their dedicated teachers and chaperones, represents the very best of Dallas ISD. Travis TAG, located in Uptown Dallas and represented by the Timberwolf mascot, has once again been named the number one public middle school in Texas by U.S. News & World Report's 2026 Best Schools rankings. The school earned an A+ rating from Children at Risk and a 10 out of 10 rating from GreatSchools--a testament to the excellence, commitment, and talent of its students, educators, and families. These students have demonstrated remarkable achievement both inside and outside the classroom. They excel in fine arts, athletics, debate, robotics, student government, and academic competitions across science, math, and beyond. Their presence here in Washington reflects not only their academic success, but also the strong support of their families and community, including partners like Uptown Dallas Inc. and Bread Winners Uptown, whose generosity helped make this trip possible. As part of their 8th grade U.S. History curriculum, these students have spent the past year studying the foundations of our Nation--from the colonial era through Reconstruction. Their visit brings those lessons to life. During their time here, they will tour the United States Capitol, visit the National Archives Building to see the founding documents, and explore institutions such as the National Museum of American History. They will walk the grounds of Mount Vernon to learn about George Washington, and visit Fort McHenry, a defining site of the War of 1812. They will also engage with the broader American story through visits to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and honor those who have served our country with a wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery. This visit is especially meaningful as our Nation approaches its semiquincentennial. For many of these students, who have spent years learning and growing together, this trip marks both the culmination of their middle school experience and the beginning of their journey as engaged citizens. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in welcoming the Travis TAG Class of 2026 to Washington, D.C. May their time here deepen their understanding of our Nation's history, inspire a lifelong commitment to civic engagement, and remind them that the future of this country rests in capable hands such as theirs. It is an honor to have them here.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for yielding, and I thank my colleague Congressman Panetta from California for also helping to introduce this bill. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of my bill, H.R. 6903, the Ensuring Children Receive Support Act. Nearly 2 weeks ago, families experienced one of the largest tax refund seasons on record, with an estimated $91 billion already issued as part of an expected $370 billion refund season. On average, families can look forward to nearly $4,000 back in their pockets compared to last year, and families with two children earning $73,000 will have no Federal income tax liability. Supporting working families is more important than ever, especially now that the working families tax cuts have been signed into law. By claiming the standard deduction and the child tax credit, families keep more of their hard-earned money to be able to provide for their families by putting food on the table, covering rent, or keeping up with everyday expenses, giving them immediate relief when it matters most. However, ensuring children are taken care of should not be negotiable, particularly in joint custody households where both parents share responsibility. When child support obligations go unmet, that responsibility breaks down, leaving children without the consistent support they deserve. In 2024 alone, there were over 8 million unpaid child support cases-- at the direct expense of our children. That is why stronger enforcement tools are necessary to hold delinquent parents accountable. Mr. Speaker, just weeks after the Ways and Means Committee marked up my legislation, we have seen reports that the administration is moving to proactively revoke passports for individuals who owe significant child support. That reinforces exactly what this bill is about: making sure the tools we already have are used both effectively and consistently. The passport denial program administered by the State Department currently allows for the denial or revocation of a passport when an individual owes more than $2,500 in past-due child support and seeks consular services. My bill strengthens this program by requiring the State Department to revoke an individual's passport and notify them of the intent to take such action. If an individual is abroad when their passport is revoked, the State Department may make an emergency exception to allow that individual to return to the United States. Since its implementation, this program has successfully collected over $600 million in past-due child support, including $30 million in 2024 alone. This legislation builds on that success by strengthening enforcement and ensuring accountability for those who deliberately evade their obligations as parents. When parents meet their responsibilities, children have greater stability. Families are stronger, and taxpayers are not left picking up the tab. Mr. Speaker, this is a commonsense, bipartisan step forward and a clear win for children and families. I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize TRAC Global Group for its commitment to economic development, international partnership, and cultural exchange, and to commend its growing investment in North Texas. I include in the Record the following proclamation in recognition of it: Whereas, TRAC Global Group is a global developer and investor headquartered in South Korea with a strong record of success in international real estate and infrastructure development, and is expanding its presence in North Texas; and Whereas, under the leadership of Chairman Chong Mun, a distinguished Korean American entrepreneur, TRAC Global Group has demonstrated visionary leadership and has played a meaningful role in strengthening economic and cultural ties between the United States and South Korea; and Whereas, the company has successfully collaborated with global partners. financial institutions, and public entities on major residential and commercial developments, showcasing its ability to execute transformative, large-scale projects; and Whereas, TRAC Global Group has proposed the K-Wave Cluster Project as a multi-phase development in the Dallas-Fort Worth region, designed to serve as a hub for Korean lifestyle, integrating food, beauty, entertainment, culture, and technology into one destination; and Whereas, this project is expected to generate significant economic impact by creating jobs, supporting small businesses, encouraging workforce development, and contributing to long-term regional growth; and Whereas, the project will further position North Texas as a center for innovation, international collaboration, and cultural exchange, strengthening the relationship between local communities and global partners; and Whereas, TRAC Global Group's commitment to innovation, sustainability, and economic vitality reflects a shared vision for continued growth and opportunity in the region; and Now, therefore, I recognize TRAC Global Group for its contributions to economic development, cultural exchange, and international partnership, and commend its leadership for its investment in the North Texas community. I extend my best wishes for continued success in its future endeavors and for the positive impact it will bring to the region and beyond.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Officer Brad Mitchell of the Grapevine Police Department on the occasion of his retirement after 30 years of distinguished service in law enforcement. Officer Mitchell's career has been defined by dedication, professionalism, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to our North Texas communities. Officer Mitchell began his law enforcement career in September 1993 with the Colleyville Police Department, where he served until April 1996. He then joined the Grapevine Police Department, where he dedicated the remainder of his career to protecting and serving the residents of Grapevine and the surrounding North Texas community. Throughout his tenure with the Grapevine Police Department, Officer Mitchell served in numerous assignments, including Patrol, Traffic, the Mall Substation, and the Criminal Investigations Division (CID). He also served as a Field Training Officer, mentoring and guiding new officers entering the profession. His work in Traffic as a DWI/DRE Traffic Investigator and in CID as a Traffic Investigator and Fraud Investigator reflects the breadth of his experience and his steadfast commitment to public safety. His career exemplifies the very best of public service, and his contributions have left a lasting impact on the Grapevine Police Department and the community he has served for three decades. I extend my sincere gratitude and best wishes to him as he begins this well- deserved retirement.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Lieutenant Tim Gill for his distinguished 29-year career in law enforcement and his dedicated service to our North Texas community. Lieutenant Gill began his career with the Grapevine Police Department on February 24, 1997, and was certified as a Texas Peace Officer on July 7, 2004. Over nearly three decades, he has demonstrated unwavering commitment, leadership, and professionalism in every role he has held. Lieutenant Gill holds a master's degree from Southern Methodist University and a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from Bluefield College. He is also a graduate of the FBI National Academy, the Senior Management Institute for Police, and the Police Executive Research Forum, reflecting his continued commitment to professional development and excellence in law enforcement. Throughout his career, Lieutenant Gill has served in a wide range of impactful roles, including Patrol Officer, Field Training Officer, Instructor, and Explorer Advisor. He made significant contributions to community engagement and public safety through his work as a Crime Prevention Officer, Crime Prevention Inspector, and Homeowner's Insurance Inspector. He also served in both the Patrol and Criminal Investigation Divisions before advancing to Lieutenant in Patrol and later serving as the Office of Professional Standards Lieutenant. In addition, Lieutenant Gill played a critical role as the Accreditation Manager for the Grapevine Police Department's first accreditation through the Law Enforcement Accreditation Program, helping to advance the department's professional standards and accountability. Lieutenant Gill's career exemplifies integrity, leadership, and dedication to service. His contributions have left a lasting impact on the Grapevine Police Department and the community he has faithfully served. As he moves into this next chapter, I offer my best wishes for his well-earned retirement.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the students and faculty of Arbor Creek Elementary School in Euless, Texas for their participation in our 2026 Valentines for Veterans program. Through this initiative, students created more than 50 Valentine's Day cards for veterans in our North Texas community, sharing encouragement, appreciation, and heartfelt support with those who have served. Their commitment to honoring our heroes helped make this project a tremendous success, contributing to over 1,800 Valentine's Day cards received by our office. This outpouring of kindness reflects the deep gratitude for our veterans that remains strong throughout North Texas. The creativity and compassion demonstrated by these students are a testament to the caring spirit present throughout their school. I commend them for their generosity and community involvement and thank them for helping make this year's Valentines for Veterans program so meaningful. It is an honor to represent them in Texas' 24th District.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the students and faculty of Berkner High School and STEM Academy in Richardson, Texas for their participation in our 2026 Valentines for Veterans Program. Through this initiative, students created more than 20 Valentine's Day cards for veterans in our North Texas community, sharing encouragement, appreciation, and heartfelt support with those who have served. Their commitment to honoring our heroes helped make this project a tremendous success, contributing to over 1,800 Valentine's Day cards received by our office. This outpouring of kindness reflects the deep gratitude for our veterans that remains strong throughout North Texas. The creativity and compassion demonstrated by these students are a testament to the caring spirit present throughout their school. I commend them for their generosity and community involvement and thank them for helping make this year's Valentines for Veterans program so meaningful. It is an honor to represent them in Texas' 24th District.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the students and faculty of RISD Academy in Dallas, Texas for their participation in our 2026 Valentines for Veterans program. Through this initiative, students created more than 290 Valentine's Day cards for veterans in our North Texas community, sharing encouragement, appreciation, and heartfelt support with those who have served. Their commitment to honoring our heroes helped make this project a tremendous success, contributing to over 1,800 Valentine's Day cards received by our office. This outpouring of kindness reflects the deep gratitude for our veterans that remains strong throughout North Texas. The creativity and compassion demonstrated by these students are a testament to the caring spirit present throughout their school. I commend them for their generosity and community involvement and thank them for helping make this year's Valentines for Veterans program so meaningful. It is an honor to represent them in Texas' 24th District.