Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Deputy Chief Mike Shikany for his outstanding 31 years of service to the Bedford Police Department and to recognize his well-earned retirement.

Deputy Chief Shikany devoted his career to ensuring the safety and well-being of our community, beginning his journey with the Bedford Police Department in October 1993 as a Police Officer, and through hard work and perseverance, rose through the ranks. From Police Corporal in 2003, to Sergeant in 2008, Lieutenant in 2020, and ultimately to Deputy Chief in 2024, his leadership has been a guiding force for the department.

Throughout his career, Deputy Chief Shikany has played a pivotal role in shaping the department's success, leading the Patrol and Criminal Investigations Divisions, and mentoring countless officers. His commitment to professional development is reflected in his bachelor's degree in criminal justice, the Master Peace Officer Certification from the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement, and graduation from the prestigious Senior Management Institute for Police.

Deputy Chief Shikany has earned numerous accolades, including Employee of the Quarter in 2014, a Certificate of Merit in 2013, and Patrol Divisional Employee of the Year in 2005. His career is further distinguished by numerous letters of commendation, each underscoring his exceptional dedication to law enforcement and the safety of our community.

Deputy Chief Shikany's remarkable service has left a mark on the Bedford Police Department and improved the lives of the people he has served. I thank him for his tireless commitment in protecting North Texans. On behalf of a grateful community, I congratulate him on his retirement and wish him the best in this next chapter of his life.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Collin County Deputy Constables Nolan Bagwell of Dallas and Omar Abuabara of Roanoke for their heroic actions.

On May 6, 2023, a gunman entered the Allen Premium Outlets in Allen, Texas and indiscriminately fired on shoppers, moving methodically through the parking area and promenades of the outlets, shooting 15 people in a matter of minutes. Constables Bagwell and Abuabara were among the earliest first responders on scene, working without hesitation to locate the shooter and secure the area.

Deputy Constables Bagwell and Abuabara moved systematically through stores in the outlet mall, clearing each while ensuring the safety of the individuals inside. After another Allen police officer neutralized the shooter, Bagwell and Abuabara continued to secure the entire premises before assisting with the evacuation of thousands from the premises.

The selflessness and bravery displayed by Deputy Constables Bagwell and Abuabara as they put the safety of others first reflects great credit upon themselves, North Texas, and the State of Texas.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of a grateful Nation and the Citizens of the Twenty-Fourth District of Texas. The 2024 Congressional Veteran Commendation is hereby presented to Robert G. Briggs, Staff Sergeant, United States Army, of Keller, Texas for his honorable service in the Armed Forces of the United States of America and for his continued service to his community.

Mr. Briggs enlisted in the United States Army in 2003, serving as a signal intelligence analyst, with a combat deployment to Afghanistan. During his deployment he served as a low-level voice intercept team leader in remote areas of Afghanistan, supporting an infantry unit with signals intelligence collection and engaged in numerous firefights with insurgent forces.

Mr. Briggs' decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, the NATO Afghanistan Service Medal, the Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal (2nd Award), the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Army Reserve Component Overseas Training Ribbon, the Armed Forces Reserve Medal with M Device, and the Combat Action Badge.

His dedication to service does not stop with his time in the military. He is a public servant to the City of Southlake, serving as the Deputy Director of Economic Development & Tourism, and has worked tirelessly to establish a Veteran's Recognition Program for the city. He also volunteers as a youth baseball and soccer coach, serves at the Tarrant County Food Bank, and works in numerous capacities at St. Ann Catholic Parish.

Mr. Briggs' service is consistent with the finest traditions of the United States Army and reflects great credit upon himself, the State of Texas, and the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of a grateful Nation and the Citizens of the Twenty-Fourth District of Texas. The 2024 Congressional Veteran Commendation is hereby presented to Charles Newton Simpson, Major General, United States Air Force, of Southlake, Texas for his honorable service in the Armed Forces of the United States of America, and for his continued service to his community.

Major General Simpson was commissioned as an officer in the United States Air Force in 1972, serving as an aviator on the F-4 Phantom, F- 16 Fighting Falcon, and Lockheed U-2, with assignments in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. He served as a former commander of the U.S. Air Force Demonstration Squadron, the Thunderbirds, as well as two operations groups and two wings, later serving on the Joint Staff and at Headquarters, U.S. European Command.

Major General Simpson's decorations include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, the Defense Superior Service Medal with oak leaf cluster, the Legion of Merit with oak leaf cluster, the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Bronze Star Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal with three oak leaf clusters, the Air Medal with oak leaf cluster, the Aerial Achievement Medal with oak leaf cluster, the Air Force Commendation Medal with oak leaf cluster, the Air Force Achievement Medal, the Joint Meritorious Unit Award with three oak leaf clusters, the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with three oak leaf clusters, the Air Force Organizational Excellence Award with oak leaf cluster, the Combat Readiness Medal with two oak leaf clusters, the National Defense Service Medal with two oak leaf clusters, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Korea Defense Service Medal, the Air Force Overseas Ribbon--Short with oak leaf cluster, the Air Force Overseas Ribbon--Long with two oak leaf clusters, the Air Force Expeditionary Service Ribbon with Gold Border, the Air Force Longevity Service with silver and three bronze oak leaf clusters, and the Air Force Training Ribbon.

His dedication to service does not stop with his time in the military. He currently works with the ICW Texas Ramp project to build accessibility ramps for those with disabilities, delivers food for Metroport Meals on Wheels, and serves as the Air Force chair for the Dallas Military Ball. He has also been recognized by the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution for his service to the community, earning him the DAR Medal of Honor.

Major General Simpson's service is consistent with the finest traditions of the United States Air Force and reflects great credit upon himself, the State of Texas, and the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of a grateful Nation and the Citizens of the Twenty-Fourth District of Texas. The 2024 Congressional Veteran Commendation is hereby presented to Gavin Darek Tade, Colonel, United States Air Force, of Southlake, Texas for his honorable service in the Armed Forces of the United States of America and for his continued service to his community.

Colonel Tade was commissioned as an officer in the United States Air Force in 1994, serving as an aviator and drone pilot, flying the F-16 Fighting Falcon and the MQ-9 Reaper. He has served in leadership capacities as a Squadron Commander, a Group Commander, Vice-Wing Commander, and as a mobilization assistant to four different general officers. With over 100 combat hours, he conducted missions over Iraq and Afghanistan deploying air-to-ground weapon assets to destroy hostile aggressors in the War on Terror.

Colonel Tade's decorations include the Legion of Merit, the Aerial Achievement Medal, the Remote Combat Effects Campaign Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, the Combat Readiness Medal, the Air Force Achievement Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Leadership Ribbon, the Armed Forces Service Medal, the Military Outstanding Voluntary Service Medal, the Air Force Longevity Service Award, the Armed Forces Reserve Medal, the Air Force Training Ribbon, and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.

His dedication to service does not stop with his time in the military. He coaches youth football, volunteers with schools and boy scout troops, mentors students for future careers in the Air Force, and volunteers to clean up trash alongside the road in his community. Colonel Tade sponsors ride-along flights for future pilots at the Grand Prairie Airport-as well as hosts tours for students interested in military service at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth.

Colonel Tade's service is consistent with the finest traditions of the United States Air Force and reflects great credit upon himself, the State of Texas, and the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Delbert Kohler's 50-year anniversary at Davis Machine, a manufacturing company based in Texas's 24th Congressional District. Delbert began his career at Davis Machine in 1974 and has consistently demonstrated immense dedication and talent.

Davis Machine built a solid reputation among its customers as a high- quality production facility, originally producing a limited range of parts in low volumes. Seeking to expand its capabilities to produce more complex components, the company purchased an Okuma LB-15 lathe equipped with Computer Numerical Control (CNC) technology. This transformed the business from a manual machine shop to a CNC-driven facility. As one of the company's most trusted experts on manual lathes, Delbert was chosen to become the CNC lathe programmer.

A master craftsman, Delbert has been instrumental in transforming the business into a high-volume production shop that continues to serve its valued customers. In 2014, he played a key role in The University of Texas at Arlington's project for the school's FSAE racing team and has trained thousands ofemployees over the years.

I would like to congratulate Delbert on his 50th anniversary with the Davis Machine family and wish him the best as he continues to help this high-tech operation thrive in North Texas.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of a grateful Nation and the Citizens of the Twenty-Fourth District of Texas. The 2024 Congressional Veteran Commendation is hereby presented to Bradley Linch, Specialist, United States Army, of Southlake, Texas for his honorable service in the Armed Forces of the United States of America, and for his continued service to his community.

Mr. Linch enlisted in the United States Army in 1987, serving as a food service specialist in the 25th Infantry Division. During his time in service, Mr. Linch wrote a paper titled, ``The Army's Food'', which his college professor encouraged him to send to Members of Congress. After receiving the paper, former Texas Senator Lloyd Bentsen reached back out to Mr. Linch, and after correspondence, a Senate investigation paved the way for more nutritious food to be served at dining facilities across the Army.

Mr. Linch's decorations include the National Defense Service Medal, the Overseas Service Ribbon, the Good Conduct Medal, and the Army Service Medal.

His dedication to service does not stop with his time in the military. He currently serves as a mentor to students on financial markets, as well as a member of the Southlake Chamber of Commerce assisting with fundraising activities. He also volunteers with the Kids Matter International local chapter, and has coached youth sports for ten seasons with the Miracle League of Southlake. He is also a member of the American Legion and a graduate of the Southlake Citizens Academy.

Mr. Linch's service is consistent with the finest traditions of the United States Army and reflects great credit upon himself, the State of Texas, and the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of a grateful Nation and the Citizens of the Twenty-Fourth District of Texas. The 2024 Congressional Veteran Commendation is hereby presented to Zachary Ceballos, Lance Corporal, United States Marine Corps, of Euless, Texas for his honorable service in the Armed Forces of the United States of America and for his continued service to his community,

Mr. Ceballos enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 2008, serving as a rifleman with 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, deploying to Sangin, Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in 2011. During his deployment, his unit would suffer significant losses that would lay the foundation for his current dedication to supporting veterans from all eras of service.

Mr. Ceballos' decorations include the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with 2 service stars, the NATO Medal--ISAF Afghanistan, the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, and the Expert Rifle Badge.

His dedication to service does not stop with his time in the military. He currently serves as a veteran peer support specialist for GallantFew, a local veteran service organization. He devotes his spare time to coaching veterans on mental health, teaching them rock climbing, helping lead the Metroport Veterans Association, and planning Melborial Day as well as Veterans Day observances in the community.

Mr. Ceballos service is consistent with the finest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and reflects great credit upon himself, the State of Texas, and the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, retired U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Gabriel Griess. After graduating from the U.S. Air Force Academy, Gabriel Griess was deployed to Afghanistan as a C-130 Cargo Aircraft Navigator in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Anaconda. His heroic service included evacuating critically injured troops, destroying Al Qaeda strongholds, flying in critical supplies, and providing air support to ground troops. He continued to serve in leadership and command positions with numerous worldwide deployments and tours of duty, journeying to over 40 countries. His valiant service earned him the Legion of Merit in 2013 and Air Mobility Command Company Grade Officer of the Year in 2003.

After 24 years, Lieutenant Colonel Griess retired from the U.S. Air Force and moved his family to Grapevine. Inspired by the quality of care and commitment of U.S. aero-medical evacuation teams while deployed, as well as the incredible healthcare professionals who treated his daughter's pediatric epilepsy, Mr. Griess founded Excel Medical Staffing and MedForceX, LLC, service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses that provide contingent clinical staffing services across the country. He has been active in our community, serving on multiple city boards, coaching youth lacrosse, and integrating charity work into his company's referral program.

I'd like to thank Mr. Griess for going above and beyond to serve our North Texas community and our great Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Southlake resident Ashley Burnett. Last year, Ashley found out her father, Todd, was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a progressive and fatal neuromuscular disease. Ashley has been working to raise awareness and funds for ALS research ever since. Over the summer, which marked the 10-year anniversary of the original ice bucket challenge to raise money for ALS research, Ashley hosted her own ice bucket challenge at Hawaiian Falls Waterpark in honor of her dad.

In Ashley's own words, ``With a disease that is full of the unknown and often feels so hopeless, raising money through this event gives my family back a little bit of that hope.'' Through her efforts, Ashley is helping those living with ALS, and their loved ones; tackle the physical, emotional, and financial toll that comes from the devastating disease. Her challenge raised over $15,000 for ALS research.

I'd like to thank Ashley for her efforts to support those living with ALS. She is an inspiration to North Texans and a beacon of hope to those suffering from the disease.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Envision Dallas on the grand opening of its new facility in Farmers Branch, Texas. Envision Dallas has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to our community and dedicated countless hours to the development of a state-of-the-art facility that will serve as a beacon of hope, opportunity, and empowerment for many North Texans.

The transformation of the long-abandoned AT&T call center in Farmers Branch is nothing short of remarkable. This building, which had stood vacant for over a decade, has now been revitalized into a hub of economic growth and empowerment. The project has not only breathed new life into this space, but it has also created over 100 jobs for individuals who are blind or visually impaired, providing them with meaningful employment through the AbilityOne program. This level of investment and impact is precisely the kind of initiative that strengthens our communities.

In addition to its direct contributions to economic development, Envision Dallas plays a critical role in supporting our national defense. Through its work as a key AbilityOne provider, Envision Dallas supplies essential items such as battle dress uniforms, office supplies, presentation binders, printing support, and eyeglass cases to our military. This commitment underscores its vital role in supporting those who ensure our national security every day.

Envision Dallas also extends its impact closer to home by directly supporting the State of

Texas through its provision of essential safety gear to our road and highway workers through the Texas Workforce Commission and food products to the Texas prison system. Beyond its contributions to defense and state operations, Envision Dallas offers an array of essential services that will benefit countless families in North Texas. The Cathy G. Hudson Envision Child Development Center will nurture our youngest learners, ensuring children of all abilities have the foundation they need to succeed. The Perot Welcome Center will serve as a vital resource for families and individuals seeking support. The newly established Envision Vision and Rehabilitation Clinic will provide cutting-edge care to those with vision impairments, while the William L. Hudson Workforce Innovation Center will empower individuals who are blind or visually impaired to gain the skills and confidence necessary to excel in today's workforce.

Envision Dallas is setting a powerful example of what it means to truly invest in people, infrastructure, and the future of our community. This transformative facility will no doubt have a positive impact on North Texas for years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jose Luis ``Joe'' Luccioni's dedication to our community and outstanding achievements. Originally from Puerto Rico, Joe eventually moved to North Texas, settling in Grapevine. Joe has become a pillar for our community, contributing significantly to the civic and cultural life for 31 years.

In 2007, Joe joined the Grapevine Police Department's Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS) program, where he has served with distinction for the past 17 years. His dedication is reflected in an extraordinary 8,697 lifetime volunteer hours, a testament to his unwavering commitment to the safety and welfare of Grapevine residents. From 2017 to 2020, Joe served as the Director of VIPS, leading with passion and integrity. His exemplary service was recognized in 2018 when he was honored with the prestigious Presidential Achievement Award for volunteerism, in acknowledgment of his remarkable 4,000 hours of service. Joe's commitment to Grapevine also extends far beyond his work with the Volunteers in Police Service. He played a pivotal role in the construction of the 9/11 Flight Crew Memorial in Grapevine, a project completed in 2008 to honor the brave flight crew heroes of September 11, 2001. Joe's leadership in this initiative was critical to its successful completion, creating a lasting tribute that continues to unite and inspire the community.

In addition to his work on the memorial, Joe has served the community in various capacities. He was a member of the Grapevine Parks and Recreation Board from 2017 to 2021, where he contributed to the enhancement of local parks and community spaces. Since 2014, Joe has also been an active member of the Shield Foundation Board, reflecting his deep commitment to the well-being and development of his community. His involvement in the Grapevine Runners and Walkers since 1997 emphasizes his passion for promoting health and fitness within the community. He has received numerous awards and recognitions for his relentless dedication, humility, and leadership. His selfless contributions have left an indelible impact on the City of Grapevine, the Latino community, and North Texas as a whole. Joe embodies the true spirit of community service and leadership, demonstrating what can be achieved when one devotes themselves to the greater good.

It is my pleasure to recognize Jose Luis ``Joe'' Luccioni for his exemplary contributions and unwavering dedication to North Texas, as well as congratulate him on receiving the 2024 Latino Service Award.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the extraordinary contributions of Jorge Rodriguez. Originally from Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico, he has called Grapevine his home since 1995. Jorge's passion for education and unwavering commitment to his community has made a lasting impact on the Grapevine-Colleyville Independent School District. For 15 years, Jorge served as an elected member of the Grapevine-Colleyville ISD Board of Trustees, where his leadership and vision played a pivotal role in elevating the district's academic performance. Under his stewardship, Grapevine-Colleyville ISD achieved the distinguished rank of sixth in Texas for its advanced studies program, a reflection of his dedication to fostering academic excellence and creating opportunities for all students.

Jorge's leadership was further highlighted in 2018 when the Grapevine-Colleyville ISD Board was awarded the Texas School Board of the Year, an honor that speaks to his forward-thinking approach and commitment to education. His contributions have left an indelible mark on the district, shaping its future and enhancing the educational experience for countless students. In addition to his work on the school board, Jorge founded the Exito Hispano program in 2011, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at empowering Hispanic parents through educational workshops. These workshops provide essential information about public school programs, scholarships, universities, and academic opportunities, helping to bridge gaps and ensure that all Hispanic students in Grapevine-Colleyville ISD have the tools to graduate and pursue higher education.

Jorge Rodriguez's efforts to expand educational opportunities, empower Latino families, and promote youth development have made him a true champion for progress, inclusion, and a brighter future for all in Grapevine and the Hispanic community.

It is my pleasure to recognize Jorge Rodriguez for his exemplary contributions and unwavering dedication to North Texas, as well as congratulate him on receiving the 2024 Latino Service Award.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the Stop Campus Hazing Act. I rise on behalf of those who cannot, including Dalton Debrick, an Irving native who tragically lost his life at the young age of 18.

Dalton loved life and lit up a room with his smile. He grew up participating in sports, including baseball and other activities at the Irving YMCA.

These experiences led Dalton to work with children and, after originally declaring an engineering major, inspired him to switch paths to pursue a career in coaching and teaching.

A kindhearted, bright young man, Dalton played baseball and made an impact in our northeast Texas community through his sports teams and involvement in church programs. After 13 years of hard work, Dalton graduated from Nimitz High School and was excited to attend Texas Tech University in Lubbock.

Like many of us, Dalton's parents, who are with us in the gallery today, were filled with mixed emotions when they dropped off their eldest child,

proud of their son for pursuing his lifetime dream of attending Tech but nervous for his new chapter.

On August 18, 2014, Dalton turned 18. Days later, his loving family moved him into his freshman dorm, and by August 24, 2014, Dalton went home to be with his Lord. He never got to experience his first day of college nor the joy of graduating and beginning his adult career.

The night before he was set to begin his freshman year, Dalton was killed in an alcohol-fueled hazing incident. After being forced to drink a keg of beer in less than 30 minutes and half a handle of whiskey, Dalton was left in a room unconscious and covered in vomit, guarded by a fraternity member so he wouldn't be seen and couldn't be helped.

Mr. Speaker, 911 wouldn't be called until 3 hours after he was found dead, with a blood alcohol content four times the legal limit. Dalton's death was preventable.

Since Dalton's death, his mom, Debbie, has spoken out and used her platform to urge students to look after each other and to be someone her son didn't have.

In her discussions with colleges and universities, Debbie has been an incredible advocate, working to fulfill Dalton's dream of educating children. In doing so, Debbie and Dalton are saving lives.

Debbie has worked with the Anti-Hazing Coalition to warn families about the dangers of hazing and to pass legislation that will help prevent other parents from experiencing this immeasurable loss.

In 2019, Debbie worked to get Texas Senate Bill 38 signed into law, which changed criminal prosecution for hazing offensives and requires universities to be transparent about hazing incidents on campus.

In the more than 10 years since Dalton was tragically taken from us, Debbie has saved countless students and families from suffering the same fate.

Between 1959 and 2021, at least one hazing death occurred per year on a U.S. college campus. Currently, campus safety laws do not require colleges to report data about hazing, and State-level hazing definitions and penalties are inconsistent.

The Stop Campus Hazing Act provides uniform antihazing guidance, mandating that institutions include hazing incidents in their annual reports, requiring them to implement hazing prevention programs and publish their hazing policies online, along with information about which student organizations have a history of hazing incidents.

This is not only a tool for institutions to combat hazing but will also help empower students to make informed decisions when choosing between which schools to attend, clubs to join, and Greek life on campus.

I am hopeful that if we work together, we can put an end to the hazing culture that is all too common on college campuses. It is imperative that we protect students, provide parents with reassurance, ensure accountability for perpetrators, and save lives.

Mr. Speaker, I thank Debbie and her husband for their tireless work, advocating not only for Dalton but the countless other parents who tragically lost their children the same way. I thank my colleagues for supporting this important legislation as we take a crucial step to stop these preventable tragedies.

Mr. Speaker, I thank them for being here today.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Debbie Conard, who has dedicated over 20 years to volunteering with the Richardson Fire Department. On the Fire 1 Rehab Team, Debbie supports firefighters during large fires. She is on call 24/7, leading the photography team and responding to structure fires, capturing firefighters as they save lives and property. These images serve as a visual record of the bravery and dedication of our local firefighters and are on display at fire stations throughout the city.

After completing the Citizen Fire Academy (CFA), Debbie joined the CFA Alumni Association, where she served as President for many years and remains active today. Her dedication extends to the Richardson Police Department, where she has volunteered for over 18 years. After completing the Citizen Police Academy (CPA), she continued to stay involved through the board of the CPA Alumni Association, contributing to special events, including National Night Out and Safety Fairs, as well as photographing for CPA classes.

Debbie's dedication to serving North Texans isn't limited to Richardson city limits. She volunteered at the Scottish Rite Hospital for Children in Dallas where she engaged patients with crafts, books, and games. She also volunteered with Equest, a therapeutic equestrian riding program for children with diverse needs. Through her involvement with the annual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, Debbie helps honor fallen firefighters and police officers who lost their lives in the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Debbie is also a volunteer photographer for Honor Flight, which celebrates America's veterans by inviting them to Washington, D.C. to visit the memorials built to commemorate their service and sacrifice.

Those who know and work with Debbie describe her as humble, sincere, and deeply compassionate. She has a generous heart and never seeks recognition of accolades for her efforts. I'd like to thank Debbie Conard for going above and beyond to serve our North Texas community.