Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the distinguished career and leadership of David P. Engel, Chairman of the Port of Corpus Christi and respected business executive, community leader, and dedicated public servant.

A proud graduate of Southern Methodist University, where he earned his bachelor's in

business administration, Mr. Engel further honed his expertise through the Owner President Management Program at Harvard University. For over 50 years, he has applied his knowledge and vision to every aspect of business management, including operations, acquisitions, divestitures, and financial performance improvement.

Before founding Engel and Associates, LLC, a management consulting firm, Mr. Engel served as President of Airgas Southwest, Inc., overseeing operations across Texas, New Mexico, and Northern Mexico. Under his leadership, the company thrived as a subsidiary of Airgas, Inc., the largest distributor of welding supplies and packaged gases in the United States.

Mr. Engel's influence extends well beyond the private sector. He currently serves on the board of Susser Bank and the advisory board of Heldenfel's. He has also served as Chairman of the Corpus Christi Regional Economic Development Commission, the CHRISTUS Spohn Health, and the Lexington Museum, leaving a lasting impact on economic development, healthcare and cultural preservation in his community.

During Mr. Engel's chairmanship at the Port of Corpus Christi, the Port of Corpus Christi experienced record-breaking tonnage in 2024 and the first half of 2025. Under his leadership, the Port of Corpus Christi achieved transformative milestones including the successful completion of the new Port of Corpus Christi Executive Administration Building, the opening of the Port of Corpus Christi Center for Wildlife Rescue at the Texas State Aquarium, and the completion of the new Harbor Bridge. Mr. Engel worked closely with the Port Authority's commissioners, executive leadership, staff, industry partners and the federal government to complete the milestone of the Corpus Christi Ship Channel Improvement Project, which increased the depth of the Corpus Christi Ship Channel from 47 to 54 feet and widened it from 400 to 530 feet, ensuring that the Port of Corpus Christi will continue to advance its position as America's energy export gateway to the world.

Through his career, David Engel has demonstrated unwavering commitment to excellence, strategic leadership, and service to others. His efforts have strengthened businesses, enhanced regional development, and enriched communities across South Texas.

Mr. Speaker, Chairman David Engel embodies the highest values of leadership, dedication, and civic responsibility.

I commend him for his outstanding career and thank him for his continued commitment to our Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the distinguished service of Chief Patrol Agent Jesse D. Munoz, a dedicated law enforcement leader and a proud representative of the U.S. Border Patrol Laredo Sector.

For over twenty-five years, Chief Munoz has served our Nation with honor. A member of the 448th session of the Border Patrol Academy, he began his career at the Laredo North Station and quickly demonstrated the skill, discipline, and commitment that would define his service.

In 2004, he graduated from Class 7 of the BORSTAR Selection Course, joining an elite cadre of agents trained in rescue, trauma response, and high-risk operations. His career has taken him across the country and around the world.

From his early leadership roles in the Tucson Sector and the Special Operations Group in El Paso, to his service as Assistant Chief at CBP Headquarters, Chief Munoz has consistently answered the call to duty.

He has deployed on missions throughout Mexico, Central America, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, bringing his expertise to some of the most complex security challenges facing our Nation and our partners.

Before joining the Border Patrol, Chief Munoz served eight years in the U.S. Army as a Combat Medic and Vocational Nurse, including deployment to Turkey and Iraq with the Third Infantry Division in 1991. That foundation of service, rooted in courage, care, and leadership, has guided him throughout his USBP career.

Today, as Chief Patrol Agent of the Laredo Sector, he leads with the same steadfast dedication he has displayed since his first day in uniform.

His work has strengthened border security, enhanced emergency response operations, and safeguarded communities across South Texas.

Mr. Speaker, Chief Patrol Agent Jesse D. Munoz embodies the highest values of service and duty.

On behalf of the 28th District of Texas, I commend him for his exemplary career and thank him for his continued commitment to our Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Edna Vernette Odell Carranza, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, educator, and health care leader whose steadfast service strengthened the Laredo community for more than half a century.

Born on October 17, 1944, in Austin, Texas, Vernette dedicated her life to caring for others. She served as a school nurse at Nye Elementary, later becoming the Director of Nursing at Laredo Community College, where she helped guide and mentor a generation of future medical professionals.

She went on to serve as President of Texas Health Staffing, providing compassionate home-health care to families across South Texas.

Vernette's greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted wife to Dr. Henry Santos Carranza, and together they built a life of faith, service, and commitment to their community.

She was a loving mother, grandmother, and matriarch whose kindness, patience, and steady presence left an enduring imprint on all who knew her.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Vernette was known for her humility, warmth, and willingness to help anyone in need.

She lived her life guided by compassion and integrity, touching countless lives through both her vocation and her example.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Vernette O. Carranza, a woman whose legacy of service, love, and leadership will continue to inspire the Laredo community for generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Professeur Paul- Raymond Buitron, III--an internationally acclaimed martial artist, educator, and cultural ambassador whose life's work has elevated both the sport and the spirit of martial arts.

Professeur Buitron began his training at the age of six under his uncle, Maitre Isidro Chapa, studying the Basque art of Zipora. His early discipline and creativity shaped a lifetime dedicated to mastery, mentorship, and cultural exchange.

Through years of study in Aikido, Kung Fu, Kenpo, Boxing, and especially Savate, Professeur Buitron broke barriers.

He became the first American and first non-Frenchman to earn the title of Professeur in all disciplines of Savate and was the first American to receive France's prestigious Silver Glove and Silver Troisieme Degre.

After an injury cut short his competitive career, he founded the first official School of Savate in the United States, training generations of champions and introducing Savate to countless communities.

His leadership through the Buitron Academy and his creation of the Savate Danse De Rue movement have bridged cultures and inspired athletes worldwide.

Mr. Speaker, Professeur Paul-Raymond Buitron, III's achievements as a teacher, innovator, and cultural ambassador embody excellence and perseverance.

On behalf of the 28th District of Texas, I commend him for his lifelong contributions to sport, education, and international friendship.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of Judge Oscar O. Martinez, Sr., a distinguished public servant, businessman, and lifelong resident of Laredo, Texas.

Born in 1941 to Arnulfo and Adela Martinez, Judge Martinez graduated from Martin High School, attended Laredo Junior College and Texas A&I University in Kingsville, and proudly served his country in the United States Air Force.

After his honorable discharge in 1969, he returned home, working first in radio sales before venturing into business with Martinez Brothers' Gulf Service Station. He later founded Border Realty, building a career in real estate that reflected his entrepreneurial spirit.

In 1991, Judge Martinez was appointed Justice of the Peace for Webb County Precinct Four, and the voters returned him to office six more times. Over 24 years on the bench, he was a tireless advocate for the youth of our community.

He co-founded the Texas Court Judges Association, directed the South Texas Justice of the Peace and Constable Association, and launched truancy prevention and disciplinary programs such as Parents' Against Crime, graffiti clean-up initiatives, and youth groups with city and county partners.

His partnership with Border Patrol and IBC created the R.E.A.L. Mission Program, which served at-risk students in Laredo and was later expanded across the Rio Grande Valley and El Paso.

Beyond the courtroom, Judge Martinez lived a life of faith and service. An active parishioner of St. Patrick Catholic Church, he was a

longtime member of the Knights of Columbus and the St. Patrick's Men's Club.

He devoted over four decades to LULAC serving as District 14 director and president of Council No. 12, co-founding the Senor Internacional program, and creating the ``Lo Mejor de lo Nuestro'' award.

His dedication to youth and education earned him recognition from schools, civic organizations, and his peers, including honors such as ``Tejano Achiever,'' Rotary's ``Service Above Self,'' the Laredo Bar Association's Liberty Bell Award, and the title of ``Tiger Legend.''

He also gave 44 years of service to the Laredo International Fair and Exposition, where he was named ``Rancher of the Year,'' and was appointed by Governors Dolph Briscoe, Ann Richards, and George W. Bush to the South Texas Workforce Commission.

He loved ranching at the family's Santa Teresa Ranch in Ramireno, where he spent his spare time.

Judge Martinez retired in 2014, and in recognition of his lifetime of service, Webb County named the Precinct Four Justice Center in his honor.

His legacy will be remembered in the youth programs he created, the civic institutions he strengthened, and the countless lives he touched.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the life of Judge Oscar O. Martinez, Sr.--a devoted husband, father, veteran, public servant, and proud Laredoan who leaves behind a legacy of service above self.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ms. Fina Bazan of Rio Grande City, who, after 48 years of service at the local Dairy Queen, has retired.

For nearly half a century, Fina has been a familiar and welcoming face to countless families and neighbors.

Though she may not always recall every name, she has always remembered the faces of those she served, treating each with warmth and kindness.

Her dedication to her work and her community is an inspiration, and her story is one I hold close. My very first job as a young man was also at a Dairy Queen.

I know firsthand the hard work and commitment it takes, and I deeply admire Fina's devotion over these many decades.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in thanking Fina for her service, congratulating her on her well-earned retirement, and wishing her many years of health and happiness ahead.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 50th anniversary of American Legion Post 667 in Universal City, Texas.

Since its chartering in 1975, Post 667 has stood as a cornerstone of service, supporting veterans, active-duty service members, and families across northeast Bexar County.

For five decades, the Post has served as a hub for camaraderie, patriotic education, civic engagement, and community service.

From mentoring youth through programs that instill duty and honor, to assisting veterans as they transition to civilian life, Post 667 has embodied the American Legion's mission of service not self.

Their members have organized countless community events, supported patriotic observances, and provided a strong voice for those who have worn the uniform of our Nation.

Mr. Speaker, this milestone is an opportunity to celebrate a proud legacy and to honor those who have selflessly given back to our country and community.

I commend American Legion Post 667 for fifty years of leadership, service, and sacrifice, and I wish them continued success in the decades ahead.

Mr. Speaker, I was unable to vote today due to adverse weather delaying my flight to Washington, D.C. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 240 and YEA on Roll Call No. 241.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of Judge Edmundo B. Garcia, Jr., a devoted husband, father, public servant, and community leader from San Diego, Texas.

Born in 1936, Judge Garcia dedicated his life to education and public service. For 32 years, he served the San Diego Independent School District as a teacher and administrator, shaping the lives of countless students.

He later went on to serve as Duval County Judge from 1995 until his retirement in 2006, and again as Interim Judge in 2022, earning the respect and trust of his community.

Beyond public office, Judge Garcia was a proud U.S. Army veteran, a 4th Degree Knight of Columbus, and an active member of the San Diego Rotary Club and the Sociedad Catolica Mutualista. His civic leadership extended to board service, including the First State Bank of San Diego, and he will be fondly remembered as ``the voice'' of the San Diego Fighting Vaqueros.

Judge Garcia's legacy is rooted in faith, family, and service. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Rosa Maria, his children, grandchildren, great-granddaughter, and a grateful community.

Mr. Speaker, Judge Garcia lived a life defined by devotion to God, family, and the people of Duval County. Let us be inspired by his legacy.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 50th anniversary of the Order of Granaderos y Damas de Galvez, an esteemed organization dedicated to honoring the rich historical legacy of Spain's contributions to the shaping of the United States.

Founded in 1975 in San Antonio, the Order emerged from a collaboration between local leaders and the Spanish consulate during preparations for the U.S. Bicentennial. Their vision was to ensure that Spain's role in our national story--particularly through the leadership of General Bernardo de Galvez--would be recognized, preserved, and celebrated.

Since then, the Order has expanded across Texas, the Gulf Coast, and even into Spain, with active chapters engaged in educational outreach, historical research, and cultural exchange. Through lectures, reenactments, school presentations, and partnerships with academic institutions, the Order brings history to life and fosters deeper understanding of the transatlantic bonds that helped shape our nation.

From their role in the successful campaign for General Galvez's honorary U.S. citizenship to supporting historical monuments and public performances, the Granaderos and Damas have made invaluable contributions to civic life. Their efforts ensure that Spain's lasting impact--military, cultural, and diplomatic--is neither overlooked nor forgotten.

Mr. Speaker, I commend the Order of Granaderos y Damas de Galvez for five decades of service, and for strengthening the ties of heritage, history, and friendship between our nations.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the exceptional service of Dr. Victor Trevino--physician, public health advocate, and the 85th Mayor of the City of Laredo.

A native son of Laredo and descendant of its founder, Captain Tomas Sanchez, Dr. Trevino is a proud graduate of Nixon High School and the Laredo public school system. He pursued higher education at Laredo Junior College and Texas A&M-Kingsville before earning his medical degree in Coahuila, Mexico. After completing his residency in New Orleans, he returned home to serve the people of Laredo.

For nearly four decades, Dr. Trevino has cared for the most vulnerable in our community. As Medical Director of the Laredo Health Department, he expanded access to maternity care, public health clinics, and preventive services. He also held leadership roles at multiple hospitals, nursing facilities, and continues to serve as a trusted physician in the community.

His leadership during the COVID-l9 pandemic was especially critical. As Health Authority, Dr. Trevino launched a binational vaccination program with Nuevo Laredo and Colombia, Nuevo Leon--administering nearly 300,000 vaccines and significantly reducing hospitalizations and deaths on both sides of the border.

Elected Mayor in 2022, Dr. Trevino continues to serve with compassion and a deep belief in the betterment of our city.

Mr. Speaker, Dr. Trevino's life is a testament to service rooted in heritage and guided by purpose. On behalf of the 28th District of Texas, I thank him for his enduring commitment to Laredo.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a historic milestone for my hometown--the 270th anniversary of the founding of the City of Laredo, Texas.

Founded in 1755 along the banks of the Rio Grande, Laredo stands as one of the oldest communities in our Nation--established even before the birth of the United States. Originally known as Villa de San Agustin de Laredo, it was founded by Don Tomas Sanchez de la Barrera. Nearly three centuries later, we continue to celebrate the enduring spirit, culture, and resilience that define our community.

Throughout its history, Laredo has flown under seven different flags: Spain, France, Mexico, the short-lived Republic of the Rio Grande, the Republic of Texas, the Confederate States of America, and ultimately, the United States. Each chapter reflects the complex and vibrant story of a city shaped by shifting borders and strong people.

Today, Laredo and its sister city, Nuevo Laredo, form the Dos Laredos--creating the largest inland port in both the United States and Mexico. This dynamic economic engine is a hub for land, rail, and air cargo, driving billions in trade annually and supporting families across both nations.

But Laredo is more than just a commercial gateway--it is a cultural cornerstone. From the Washington's Birthday Celebration, one of the oldest and largest of its kind in the country, to our strong educational institutions and proud neighborhoods, Laredo remains rooted in tradition while embracing innovation and growth.

Mr. Speaker, Laredo is a city of hardworking families, a city rich in heritage, and a city that stands as a testament to the enduring promise of the American Dream.

Happy 270th birthday to Laredo. May we continue to thrive for generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Juan Francisco ``Don Pancho'' Ochoa of Laredo, Texas. Mr. Ochoa is a longtime Laredo restaurateur and is integral to the culture of South Texas and beyond.

Born in a large family in Sinaloa, Mexico, Mr. Ochoa first operated a small shoe store. After creating a novel way to marinate chicken, Mr. Ochoa knew he had a successful business opportunity.

Soon after, Mr. Ochoa's restaurant success began in 1975 when he opened El Pollo Loco, a legendary restaurant chain across Mexico and into California.

In 1987, Mr. Ochoa founded Taco Palenque, a second successful Mexican fast-casual chain. Today, Taco Palenque features 42 locations in Texas and Mexico.

Finally, in Laredo 2005, Mr. Ochoa started Palenque Grill, a family- style restaurant featuring live music and authentic Mexican recipes, many of which were created by his wife, Flerida.

Mr. Ochoa is an exemplar of the American Dream. It is our country's promise that any dedicated, hard-working individual can build a business and thrive.

As someone born and raised in Laredo, Texas, I have always enjoyed spending time with family and friends at Taco Palenque and Palenque Grill. These restaurants are an institution in South Texas and are a cornerstone of our community.

On top of achieving the American Dream, Mr. Ochoa is also one of Laredo's greatest cultural ambassadors. His restaurants and kitchens bring the cuisine of south Texas and northern Mexico to the world.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating ``Don Pancho'' Ochoa for his incredible success.

Let us all strive to share our passion for our communities and honor those who show what it means to be an American.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to commemorate Texas State Representative Tracy King. King has served in the Texas state legislature since 1995. We actually served together for a few years in Austin, Texas. I want to wish him well as he enters retirement.

Representative King graduated from Carrizo Springs High School, Southwest Texas Junior College, and Texas A&M University where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Engineering.

He spent his professional career providing hearing aids across south Texas and later sold his business to spend more time with his beloved family.

He served his first term back in 1995 representing nearby Uvalde, Texas. In 2005, he was elected to represent the 80th House district, which covers much of my district--parts

of Webb County along with the entirety of Atascosa, Dimmit, Frio, Uvalde, and Zavala counties.

Representative King has had a storied history in the Texas State House. Over the course of his fifteen terms, King has served as chairman of the committees on Border and International Affairs, Agriculture and Livestock, and Licensing and Administrative Procedures. He currently serves as the chair of the House Natural Resources Committee.

King has also served as a member of the Board of Trustees for the First United Methodist Church and is a past president of the Kiwanis Club and the Texas Hearing Aid Association.

I am proud to honor the career of this great public servant. South Texas owes him a great debt for his decades of hard work to improve the lives of all his constituents.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor forty years of the Laredo Daybreak Rotary Club. Their civic and community engagement has been a force in south Texas for decades, and I cannot wait to see what they can accomplish in the future.

Founded in 1984, the Laredo Daybreak Rotary Club has kept a keen focus on the healthcare of the community. And that focus has produced incredible results.

The club's first major initiative, helping Rotary International eradicate polio, raised more than 100 percent of their chapter goal. They then raised $125,000 to establish aerobic exercise courts on several school campuses across the district.

Laredo Daybreak Rotary Club also put on annual screenings for glaucoma and assisted with Shots Across Texas. In districts like mine, such work is extremely important in promoting a healthy community. They are also involved in international health projects like building a clinic in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico. I applaud them for it.

I also want to take note of perhaps one of their greatest accomplishments. The Laredo Daybreak Rotary Club has presented $100,000 for the endowment of Texas A&M International University and another $100,000 for Laredo Community College.

These funds, which were raised by an annual raffle originally started to help eradicate

polio, are integral in promoting higher education in south Texas.

The club also presents $1,000 scholarships each year to a graduating student from all eight of Laredo's high schools.

Mr. Speaker, Laredo has been forever changed by the incredible work of our local Rotary organization. It's been an inspiring four decades: I look forward to their continued work in the local community.