Beth Van Duyne

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today because our Nation is in crisis. One cannot overstate the absolute border disaster and national security threat that we have been living under as a direct result of Biden's, Mayorkas', and the Democrats' deliberate actions. None of this is an accident. On day one, they got to work eliminating successful Trump border policies that had us at the lowest levels of illegal immigration in years, actually, probably illegal immigration in our history. From that first day, the Biden administration made clear that they would not enforce our laws and that they would not protect our country. They did this knowing the consequences. They ignored Border Patrol and Immigration and Customs Enforcement whose officers warned that these actions would create an unprecedented disaster and dangers for Americans. Guess what, Mr. Speaker? That is exactly what happened. President Biden and Secretary Mayorkas have opened our borders to more than 10 million illegal immigrants, including millions of known got-aways and God knows how many potential terrorists and narco gang members into our country. By the way, that is more than the population of 38 States. Mr. Speaker, we have had enough. Cities all across America are being overrun. Mexican cartels own the southern border. They are causing tens of thousands of fentanyl deaths in our country ushering in a new era of human slavery and crushing our cities and towns. We are feeling the pain of Biden's border crisis not just in New York City where the border crisis is defunding the police department and other city services, but all across the Nation where it is driving up crime rates in our communities, letting fentanyl kill our children, and allowing terrorists into our Nation. What is happening in New York City should be a wake-up call for cities all across America, but it is just the tip of the iceberg. Texas right now is being particularly hit hard and continues to have to fight its own Federal Government to be able to take care of its citizens. Our Nation is less safe because our borders are not secure, and President Biden and Secretary Mayorkas continue to make things worse. It is clear. They have no regard for the law, they don't want to secure our borders, and they don't care about keeping us safe. If they cared about keeping Americans safe, why would they want our public spaces, which are paid for with taxpayer dollars, to become massive encampments for unvetted illegal immigrants, many of whom are indebted to dangerous and violent cartels? Although this national security bill is an important reform, it is clear that as long as Secretary Mayorkas remains in office, our border will remain unsecured and vulnerable to human and drug trafficking. Taxpayers in cities all across the country are footing multimillion- dollar bills. Hundreds of thousands of families are losing loved ones in fentanyl-related deaths. The American people deserve better. I stand firm in calling for Secretary Mayorkas' impeachment. I urge the Biden administration to work with border States like Texas to offer the support that we need to keep our communities safer.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Ryan McDermott. Ryan was an advocate for all North Texans. He had a talent for reaching out to new people and organizations while truly valuing each person he met. One of his new projects was to establish constituent services expos at senior centers across DFW so he could meet people where they were and offer them help with Social Security, Medicare, or other services. Always offering support and assistance to everyone he met, his enthusiasm showed what a truly noble soul he possessed. As an incredible advocate for our North Texas Job Fair, Ryan recruited the most new businesses of anyone on staff. His work to make the North Texas Job Fair a tremendous success connected people who needed new job opportunities with employers who were thrilled to have new workers. Ryan's efforts changed people's lives for the better. As a member of Team Van Duyne, Ryan was always there to help others with all projects and shoulder responsibilities that made each of our days a little easier. Ryan tragically passed away on October 24, 2023, and will be sorely missed by so many. I am forever grateful to Ryan for his incredible service to North Texas and all those whose lives he touched. We ask for prayers for his family and to remember him as the incredible man he was.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Southlake Carroll's Water Polo Team, the Lady Dragons. In only their second year as a UIL program, the Southlake Carroll Lady Dragons Water Polo team has already achieved back-to-back appearances at the UIL 6A state tournament. This year, they took 2nd place at the State Championships. The Lady Dragons finished their 2023 season as District Champions, Regional Champions, and State Runner-Up, achieving a 23-2 overall record for the season. Congratulations to the Southlake Carroll Lady Dragons Water Polo team on an amazing season and all of their accomplishments. I look forward to cheering them on next season and wish all graduating seniors the best of luck.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Chair, I have an amendment at the desk.

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Chair, my amendment No. 144 prohibits funds from being used to enforce unnecessary reporting requirements from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services on ambulatory surgical centers. I was first made aware of this requirement by my constituents when I toured a local outpatient facility back home in north Texas. As they pointed out, this forces ambulatory surgical centers to report the COVID-19 vaccination status of each employee every quarter or punish them with a payment reduction. Mr. Chairman, I am sure my colleagues on both sides of the aisle hear the same thing when we return to our districts. Healthcare facilities are struggling to find workers at every single level, yet CMS does not hold every facility to the same standard. CMS removed COVID-19 vaccination and testing requirements for hospitals on May 31, which was 20 days after the President declared the public health emergency was over. Meanwhile, CMS continues to require ambulatory surgery centers to report their workers' vaccination status or face a sharp cut in payment. To be clear, my amendment is not meant to dissuade individuals from choosing to receive a vaccine. Rather, it will give them a choice similar to every other healthcare worker who wants the freedom to choose what is best for their health. Mr. Chair, I urge all of my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this amendment and to support our healthcare workers who not only serve our communities but also support thousands of small ambulatory surgical center businesses. Mr. Chair, I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Chairman, I urge the gentlewoman from Connecticut to actually read the amendment. I am in no way saying that people should not get a vaccine. What this does is it allows them the freedom to choose. If the gentlewoman believes that healthcare workers should all be vaccinated, then tell me why that does not extend to hospital workers. We know a lot of people go to an ER when they need help, yet this is potentially calling out just workers at ambulatory surgical centers. Mr. Chair, I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, FMC Fort Worth Warden, Freddy Garrido. Warden Garrido has spent almost 30 years in the Bureau of Prisons and is retiring on October 31, 2023. During his impressive career, Warden Freddy Garrido has served selflessly to promote responsibility and lifelong skills for those incarcerated. Through his passion for service, Warden Garrido has used his role to give an underserved community hope and a second chance. Warden Garrido served at various duty stations including, FDC Oakdale, FCI Forrest City, FCC Butner, FMC Lexington, FCC Florence, FCC Victorville, and FCC Beaumont before moving to North Texas at a critical time to provide leadership and direction at FMC Fort Worth. Those who work closely with him say that his attitude and leadership style make them more empathetic and compassionate in fulfilling their own duties. During his time at FMC Fort Worth, Warden Garrido has made leadership development and training a priority. By establishing vocational programs, like a ``second chance cafe'' and HVAC program, the incarcerated have the opportunity to learn valuable life skills to equip them upon their release into society. I want to congratulate Warden Garrido on his retirement and thank him for his outstanding career of service.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Senior Pastor Chul Lee for his service with the Dallas Central Methodist Church and to congratulate him on his retirement. Pastor Lee's exceptional leadership at the Dallas Central Methodist Church has brought about remarkable initiatives that have made a significant impact on our community. One of the standout achievements during his tenure has been the church's dedication to providing scholarships to various segments of our community. Over the past 15 years, these scholarships have totaled an impressive $500.000, making it possible for numerous young individuals to pursue their educational aspirations. These segments include students attending university from the Irving Police Department, students from the firefighting community, and students from Irving Senior High School who are seeking higher education. Pastor Sung Chul Lee's unwavering commitment to our community's welfare serves as a testament to his profound dedication to the well- being of our citizens and his faith. Through his leadership and the contributions of the Dallas Central Methodist Church, they have greatly improved the lives of numerous Irving residents. It is my honor to congratulate Senior Pastor Sung Chul Lee on his successful career and retirement.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, retired United States Secret Service Special Agent in Charge (SAIC) of the Dallas Field Office William Smarr. SAIC Smarr has spent more than two decades protecting our nation's leaders before retiring on October 13, 2023. Mr. Smarr began his career in 1999 in the Pittsburgh Field Office with subsequent assignments in the Houston Field Office and the Presidential Protective Division in Washington, D.C. In addition to providing protection to our nation's leaders and investigating threats against the President, Mr. Smarr managed high-profile transnational fraud investigations involving the targeting of U.S. financial infrastructure and private industry victims. During his time as the Senior Executive for the North Texas District, SAIC Smarr led all operations involving executive protection and criminal investigations with offices in Dallas, Lubbock, Tyler and Waco. Before assuming his role in the Dallas Field Office, Mr. Smarr led as the Deputy SAIC in Houston, TX, where he oversaw the Secret Service's investigative and protective portfolio covering all southeast Texas and the country of Mexico. SAIC Smarr has dedicated his life to the integrated mission and responsibilities of the United States Secret Service and fulfilled his role with honor. I thank SAIC Smarr for all he had done to protect and serve our great Nation. I wish him the best in his well-deserved retirement.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Arthur Watson. Arthur never shied way from protecting his country and fellow man. Before joining the Merchant Marines in 1943, Arthur spent two years helping with reconstruction in Pearl Harbor where he built warehouses and storage facilities to support the Pacific War effort as a member of the Civilian Construction Corps. As a Mariner during the height of WWII, he was stationed on the SS Oklahoma when his ship was torpedoed by a German Nazi sub. Despite the explosion throwing him to the ground, the heat blistering his face, and flames engulfing the ship, Arthur fought to make his way below deck. He rushed to his station to help an Officer crank the lifeboat out to the ocean where he and 21 others survived for 18 days at sea. After this harrowing experience, his work was not done. He would sail out again, bringing supplies to the forces across Europe before eventually leaving the Merchant Marines. An honorable Veteran and hero to 21 shipmates, he passed away on Thursday, October 5 at the age 103 in Grapevine, TX. Through his courage and bravery, Arthur encapsulated what it means to have selfless service and patriotism. I would like to thank Arthur for his irreplaceable sacrifices to protect our freedom, and I hope you'll join me in praying for his family and friends.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today to thank Corporal Scott Gilley for his service with the Euless Police Department and to congratulate him on his retirement. Corporal Gilley has spent 28 years as an officer with Euless PD protecting his community and countless North Texans. I'd like to extend my sincere appreciation for his selfless service. Before pursuing his aspirations to become a police officer, Scott served in the United States Coast Guard for 8 years. After attaining an Honorable Discharge, he was hired as a Euless Police Officer in 1995. His primary assignment with the department was working as a senior member in the patrol division. Scott's leadership and work has had a significant impact leading many of his fellow officers on to very successful careers due to his mentorship. Over his many years of service, Scott has received four police certifications, his Corporal rank, and a variety of police in-service training. He's used this knowledge to provide countless hours of police training to other officers and mentor new ones straight from the academy. During his time with Euless PD, Scott has received 40 police commendations in which he was commended for his service and professionalism to the department and community. It has always been my view that public service is among the most admirable of callings, one that demands the very best among us to tackle monumental challenges in the name of selfless service to others. Corporal Gilley has always been known and appreciated as an ``informal leader'' of the troops and one that can be counted on in any situation. The courage and dedication he displayed during his many years of service in both the United States Military and Euless Police Department is admirable, and Texas-24 is better for having the benefit of leadership. It is my honor to congratulate Corporal Scott Gilley on his successful career and retirement.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today to recognize G.K. Maenius, long-time Tarrant County Administrator, embodies what it means to selflessly serve your community. Over his 35-year tenure as County Administrator, G.K. Maenius guided Tarrant County through numerous challenges, four county judges, and a doubling in population from 1.1 million in 1988 to 2.2 million today. With a staff over 4,600 and operating budget of $900 million, he masterfully managed personnel and taxpayer dollars, creating a county with a reputation marked by efficiency and fiscal responsibility. The years he spent supporting businesses, spearheading bond programs, and modernizing county technology have not gone unnoticed I thank G.K for consistent commitment to the welfare of our community. I wish him the best in his well-deserved retirement.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today to recognize the 2nd Annual Celebra Grapevine festival which will take place on October 7th in Grapevine, Texas and is dedicated to celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month. In 1988, President Ronald Reagan established Hispanic Heritage Month to celebrate the histories, cultures, and contributions made by Americans of Hispanic descent. Consistent with this fine tradition, Celebra Grapevine provides North Texans with an opportunity to embrace diversity and honor the Hispanic heritage that has influenced traditions, art, and cuisine throughout our community. Celebra means to celebrate in Spanish, which is a fitting name for this festival. Grapevine's Latino population, which makes up more than 30 percent of the city's population, plays an important role in growing the city's economy and making the city a great place to live, work, and raise a family. I commend the City of Grapevine and Celebra Grapevine for their commitment to fostering unity and building bridges in our community. I hope their festival is a great success.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Grapevine-Colleyville ISD's (GCISD) Director of Facility Use, Ryan Martin. A star athlete at the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO), Ryan Martin brought his talent and dedication to helping others to North Texas when he joined GCISD faculty 25 years ago. Since then, he's taught and coached students across several schools in GCISD, including Vista, Grapevine High School, and Colleyville Middle School, working as a special education teacher, history teacher, principal, interim principal, and head wrestling coach before becoming the Director of Facility Use. Recently, Ryan had the distinction of being inducted in the University of Central Oklahoma's Athletics Hall of Fame, one of just 172 individuals in school history to earn the honor. Ryan wrestled for UCO from 1989 to 1994, becoming a national champion and two-time All- American. He won 91 matches in his 4-year career, including 30 bonus- point victories, qualified for nationals three times, and was a two- time regional champion. I'd like to congratulate Ryan on his induction into the University of Central Oklahoma's Athletics Hall of Fame.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Heroes, Elizabeth Pickett and Noelle Dorgan. Over the summer, when a woman dialed 9-1-1 as her husband experienced a cardiac event, Elizabeth and Noelle stepped up to help save a life. As Emergency Communications Specialists for the Grapevine Police Department, they successfully guided the caller through the steps of CPR. Thanks to the clear instructions of these first responders and the caller's immediate action, the patient was able to be saved once paramedics arrived. Recently, Elizabeth and Noelle earned well-deserved recognition from the Grapevine Fire Department for their heroic efforts. Their composure amidst this intense situation was the difference between life and death. I want to thank both Elizabeth and Noelle for their dedication to serving the community and their efforts to tend to the safety and health of Texas-24.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to this motion, although I will admit that it is very nice to hear my Democrat colleagues are finally concerned with military recruitment. I wish they were worried about military recruitment when they were voting to kick out of the military members who didn't want to get the jab or when they were voting to support the botched Afghanistan withdrawal that led to so many unnecessary deaths. They seem to have already changed the recruitment videos from ``Be All You Can Be'' to come and get an abortion. How proud they must be. This is no more than a Federal power grab usurping State laws that were legally and constitutionally created by State legislators elected by a majority of voters from each State. This is a Federal power grab by a party intent on forcing its radical political agenda down the throats of Americans, who overwhelmingly don't want it. As President Biden and my colleagues on the other side of the aisle know, the Hyde amendment, which President Biden supported for decades, explicitly prohibits Federal dollars from being used for taxpayer- funded abortions. Nearly 60 percent of Americans agree that taxpayer dollars should not be used to fund abortions.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to discuss the Biden family business of selling out America. Here is just a sliver of what we know: The Biden family and associates received nearly $20 million in payments funneled through shell companies. They were paid by Russia, China, Kazakhstan, Ukraine, and Lord knows who else. Joe Biden lied about his family receiving over $1 million in payments from China through an associate. Hunter put Joe on the phone at least 20 times in business meetings with foreign nationals. Hunter Biden's business associates visited the White House at least 80 times while Joe Biden was Vice President. There were more than 150 bank transactions involving the Biden family that U.S. banks flagged as suspicious. Not only was Joe Biden involved with Hunter's clients and flying Hunter around the world on Air Force Two to generate more business, but it is also apparent that Joe was using his office as Vice President to manipulate U.S. policy. We see that with Ukraine, Burisma, in the firing of the prosecutor. Unraveling the mountain of Biden's lies, his shell companies, and Joe's actions as Vice President is part of what we will be investigating in these hearings, in the impeachment inquiry. If you are going to sell out America, this is what it looks like.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize our Texas-24 hometown hero, the Grapevine High School wrestling team. This week, on the 22nd anniversary of the horrific September 11 terrorist attacks, Grapevine High School wrestling team paid their respects by hosting a tribute climb. On the steps of Mustang-Panther Stadium, participants climbed a symbolic 110 flights in remembrance of this tragic day. Student athletes, first responders, and members of the community all climbed side by side to mourn those lost and remember the sacrifices our first responders made for the American people. I am so encouraged by the leadership displayed by the members of the Grapevine High School wrestling team and their work to unite the community in commemoration of the heroes of September 11. Their patriotism and love for country is apparent. I thank the Grapevine wrestling team for hosting this event and representing north Texas so well.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero of the week, Keller High School student, Maximus Williamson. At 14 years old, Maximus set a new National Age Group record for the boys 13-14 age group at the 2021 Texas Age Group Swimming Championships, becoming the fastest American male in the event's history for his age range. He has continued to excel, recently breaking more records, and taking home the gold in the 200 meters individual medley course at the World Junior Championships. As if Maximus taking home gold wasn't impressive enough, his performance at the championships is matched by only 1 other American teenager, a man who went on to win 4 consecutive Olympic gold medals in the race. His time compares to what the great Michael Phelps accomplished at that age. I congratulate Maximus on his win and thank him for representing North Texas well. I wish him all the best in his future competitions and will be rooting for him.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero Krissy Sarine-Van Brunt, who founded the non-profit organization Just Because, which is dedicated to giving back to under- resourced communities in North Texas. Krissy founded Just Because after she and her daughter observed the hardship of homelessness in the scorching Texas heat. She compiled a list of several necessities that the homeless desire and went to Facebook to seek help. Through that act, Just Because was started after she received overwhelming support online. Krissy has also partnered with Bombas to donate over 8,000 pairs of socks to the homeless in our community. In addition to providing Blessing Bags to the homeless, Krissy also volunteers at nursing homes and animal shelters in her spare time. I'd like to thank Krissy for going above and beyond for our community. Her selflessness and dedication do not go unnoticed.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Grapevine Police Officer Patrick O'Neal. In 2017, Officer O'Neal stalled working on a project to help law enforcement find any area or room on a school campus in an emergency, within seconds. After realizing this could be lifesaving for officers who are responding to an emergency at a school campus they may not be familiar with, Officer O'Neal embarked on his mission of numbering every door and hallway in Grapevine ISD, then creating digital maps of the floor plans to share across departments. It took years to gather the information for all the schools in the district. The maps include detailed information about all doors, their accessibility to police, the most efficient points of entry and directions to specific classrooms, and even indicate which doors require keys to open. As a result of Officer O'Neal's work, Grapevine Police now have detailed maps of each campus in Grapevine ISD which the police department can access via a digital system on their phone. Earlier this year, Officer O'Neal was honored with the 2023 State of Texas Law Enforcement Achievement Award for Public Services at the State Capitol. I'd like to thank Officer O'Neal for his tireless efforts and profound dedication to keeping North Texas students and staff safe.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize David Grenier, founder of Hero Grain. David crafts wooden, handmade American flags that he sells and donates to organizations that assist veterans and first responders. David is a Hero himself as he served our country for 13 years as a U.S. Marine and then a Navy SEAL. He left the service to look after his daughter who has special needs. David struggled with his transition from military to civilian life, but he found his passion when he created Hero Grain to make a difference in both his own life and veterans at large. His company's mission is to employ combat veterans and donate flags to the families of the fallen and extraordinary heroes. David has a great sense of pride when he accredits outstanding soldiers by donating one of his handcrafted American flags. I thank him for his service, and for going above and beyond for service members across our community.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, the Grapevine Lady Mustangs soccer team. Earlier this year, the Grapevine Lady Mustangs won the Texas 5A UIL Girls Soccer State Championships. Over the last few years, the team has overcome great adversity. In overcoming these challenges, the team has shown the power of hard work and dedication. Our North Texas community is proud of our Lady Mustangs, and I thank the team and coaches for setting a great example for the next generation of student-athletes.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Matthew JC, founder of Operation Rock the Troops. Operation Rock the Troops has traveled around the world to perform music for U.S. troops since 9/11. Matthew's mission is to use music to fight back and heal the heroes that serve our great Nation. Since 2003, Operation Rock the Troops has completed 7 World Tours in 15 countries at over 40 military bases. He also hosts performances in North Texas at local charity events to continue spreading awareness of music's healing power for veterans struggling with PTSD, TBI, and drug reliance. Matthew also utilizes his music to raise money through their Runway Rock Show to support veterans and other charities. He implemented a Songwriting Healing Program to provide veterans with a positive, non-drug related solution to good health through the art of music. I'd like to thank Matthew for going above and beyond to help heal and bring extra joy to the service members across our community.

Ms. VAN DUYNE

Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Brenda and David Hughes, creators of the ``Stay in the Light'' Christmas light exhibit. Their award-winning ``Stay in the Light'' spectacle was started in memory of their son, Nathaniel, who struggled with depression. Nathaniel passed away in April of 2019, and the festivities that the Hughes' host are in honor of his memory. The Hughes family accepts donations of blankets and socks that are donated to Meals on Wheels Senior Services of Rockwall County for the elderly. Food items and toys are also accepted for donation. Brenda and David commit over 100 hours and hang 60,000 lights to honor Nathaniel and give back to those in need within their community. I thank Brenda and David Hughes for bringing extra light to our North Texas community.