Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of this bipartisan conference agreement covering the Commerce, Justice, and Science; Energy and Water; and the Interior and Environment appropriations bills.

This package shows that when Congress works together, we can deliver full-year funding that meets the needs of our communities. This package makes smart, responsible investments in public safety, energy reliability, our public lands and, for those of us in the West, water conservation and infrastructure.

As the only member of the Arizona delegation in both the Senate and the House serving on the Appropriations Committee, I have worked to make sure this bill delivers real results back home in Arizona's Sixth Congressional District. That includes specific Community Project Funding requests developed directly with local leaders who know their communities best and targeted at the issues that matter to our communities the most.

This bill supports, for example, community safety vehicle fleet modernization so that Tucson's first responders have reliable vehicles when every second counts in their line of work. It also includes funding for the Sahuarita Police Department radio replacement, so officers can communicate clearly and safely in the field.

As the Colorado River continues to face a worsening drought, water security is more important than ever. This package helps fund water reclamation facility upgrades in Tombstone that will improve efficiency and replace aging infrastructure.

It supports the multi-municipality sewer treatment project that modernizes systems and protects public health across multiple communities in Graham County.

It also invests in source water system improvements at Marana Regional Airport and the Pioneer Well PFAS Treatment Project to help ensure safe and reliable water for families and businesses. These are practical, locally requested projects that are transparent, accountable, and focused on results.

Mr. Speaker, this conference agreement reflects a responsible use of taxpayer dollars while strengthening public safety, water security, and critical infrastructure. I am proud of the work we have accomplished, and I strongly urge my colleagues to support this package.

Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that when the House adjourns today, it adjourn to meet at 9 a.m. tomorrow.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Salpointe Catholic High School's girls' flag football team for winning the 4A State championship in its first season.

On November 22, the Lancers took home the State title in a fierce match against Mesa Eastmark. Even a 2-hour weather delay couldn't stop the Lancers from taking down the number two ranked Eastmark 17-0, winning them the 4A title in the first year of the girls' flag football program. In an impressive season, they finished 16-1.

Freshman quarterback Isla Collins, who is a youth national team player for the United States, led her team with two rushing touchdowns, scoring her first at the end of the first quarter and adding her second touchdown in the middle of the fourth quarter. Additionally, junior Andie Tkalcevic added a 21-yard field goal, extending the Lancers' lead.

To Coach Barrie Pedersen, the entire team, and everyone who played a part in this successful first season, I congratulate you. There are undoubtedly many, many more to come ahead. They have made their school and our community incredibly proud.

Lancers, enjoy this victory. You earned it. Congratulations once again.

Congratulating Ironwood Ridge Girls' Cross Country Team

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Ironwood Ridge girls' cross country team for winning the 2025 Division 2 State title. This is the fourth time that the Nighthawks have taken home a State championship title.

Senior Sorella Natale was the D-2 runner up, with a finishing time of 19:23.4, securing the Nighthawks' win. Additionally, sophomore Sophia Simmons finished in 9th place, with a time of 20:05.5. Sophomore Kylie Lederhos finished in 10th place, with a time of 20:08.9.

Congratulations to coaches Michael Smith and Bob Jones, the whole team, and everyone who made this win possible. They have made their school and our community very, very proud.

Nighthawks, enjoy this victory. You have earned it.

Congratulating Salpointe Catholic High School Girls' Volleyball Team

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Salpointe Catholic High School's girls' volleyball team for winning the 4A State championship for the first time in 5 years.

The number one ranked Lancers took home the 4A conference State title against the number three ranked American Leadership Academy-Queen Creek, with a score of 3-1. After a struggle to maintain the lead, they prevailed in the end, including an impressive 6-0 run in the fourth set.

Senior Kate Mobley earned the tournament's MVP title, with a powerful performance of 11 kills, 22 digs, 25 receptions, and 5 solo blocks.

On their way to the top, the team took down the number 16 Sahuarita, as well as other teams around the region and across the State.

This thrilling victory marks Salpointe's fourth State championship win and caps off an amazing season in which Salpointe Catholic went 24- 2 overall.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Coach Keith Rubio, the team, and everyone who played a part in this successful season. There are undoubtedly many more wins ahead. They have made their school and community incredibly proud. The Lancers should enjoy this victory. Once again, they have earned it, and I congratulate them.

Congratulating NJROTC Cadets

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the 28 NJROTC cadets from Cienega High School, Andrada High School, Empire High School, and Mica Mountain High School who competed at the Area 20 Stars and Stripes field meet in El Paso, Texas, under the leadership of Commander Micah Brewer.

These cadets did an amazing job and brought home a number of impressive awards. They placed number one overall, as well, for personal inspection, physical fitness team, armed drill team regulation, and unarmed drill team exhibition. They placed second for unarmed drill team regulation and color guard. They placed third for academic team and armed drill team exhibition.

Additionally, Madelyn Michael won the individual award for most sit- ups for girls, completing a total of 178.

Mr. Speaker, to these 28 cadets and all who took part in this special competition, I congratulate them. They have worked hard and made their schools and our community extremely proud. I congratulate them once again on all their wins. They are all well-earned.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of Tiffani Jaseph, who was honorably named the 2026 Arizona Teacher of the Year. Tiffani serves as a special education teacher at Copper View Elementary School in the Sahuarita Unified School District.

Tiffani received her bachelor of arts and masters from the University of Arizona and began her career in general education, later finding that her true passion resides in special education. Fifteen years later, Tiffani has now taught in three Arizona school districts, providing specially designed instruction in her classroom while also supporting students' needs in general education.

She emphasizes inclusive, strengths-based instruction tailored to a variety of learning styles. Before this honor, Tiffani was named the school's Teacher of the Year and has also been a finalist for District Teacher of the Year.

The Arizona Teacher of the Year award is the highest State-level recognition for public school educators. Now, Tiffani will join other State Teachers of the Year from across the entire country in a year of professional learning and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Congratulations to Tiffani. I thank her for all she has done to earn this prestigious award. Arizona's Sixth Congressional District is very lucky to have her.

Cochise College Ranked Number One in Arizona

Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of Cochise College being ranked the number one community college in Arizona, an honor that faculty, students, alumni, and all Arizonans should be very proud of.

Cochise Community College has two campuses and four centers in Cochise County and is known for its affordable tuition, small class size, and programs that lead to real-world success. Cochise College embraces what all colleges should strive to be in this amazing country.

A product of community college myself, I know firsthand that Cochise College remains committed to helping students create bright futures. Cochise College provides both university transfer programs for those wanting to continue education and also offers workforce-ready certificates designed to prepare graduates for immediate employment in southern Arizona's growing job market.

I am honored to represent Cochise College in Arizona's Sixth Congressional District, and I am incredibly proud of their hard work and commitment to excellence.

Congratulations to President James Perey, the board, the faculty, the staff, and all the students that make Cochise College what it is today.

Celebrating Pinal County's 150th Birthday

Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of Pinal County's 150th birthday. Older than the State of Arizona, Pinal County was formed from portions of Maricopa and Pima Counties on February 1, 1875.

While mining in the county was the most dominant force back then, Pinal County's economy has exponentially grown and expanded over time, but agriculture remains a significant part of the county's economy, while large-scale farming operations and ag research also prevail.

Pinal County has experienced significant population growth in recent decades, becoming one of the fastest-growing counties in the entire country. The county's location, infrastructure, and pro-business environment are key factors in its expedited growth and in its development.

The beauty of Pinal County is diverse. With a landscape including both mountains and desert valleys, Pinal County is home to the Casa Grande Ruins National Monument, Picacho Peak, and way, way more.

It is an honor to represent Pinal County in Congress. Happy 150th birthday to Pinal County.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of my bill, H.R. 3579, the Veterans Readiness and Employment Program Integrity Act. This bipartisan bill ensures that veterans have the tools and resources they need to successfully transition to civilian life.

This legislation does so by providing much-needed oversight over the VA's Veteran Readiness and Employment program, which offers specific job training and counseling to veterans with a service-connected disability. This bill requires the VA to track employment outcomes and wait times for participants in order for us to know if this program is fulfilling its core mission, and it enables better evaluation of all tracks in the VR&E so that we can do a better job in understanding what is working and also what is not working.

Far too many veterans wait for months just to meet with a program counselor. I have heard this over and over again in my district. Far too many leave programs without confidence that they have the skills to have a stable civilian career. This bill fixes that.

It is not about giveaways, it is about getting return on our investment in veterans, in dignity, in opportunity, in real jobs. It is about ensuring our veterans transition with the resources that they need, not just to survive, but to thrive.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to vote in support of H.R. 3579. Stand behind our veterans not just with words but with this important oversight, with accountability, and especially with action.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of my bill, H.R. 3951, the Rural Veterans' Improved Access to Benefits Act of 2025.

This bipartisan bill aims to ensure rural veterans have access to quality and timely physician examinations so that they are able to receive the care they are entitled to, regardless of where they live.

This legislation does this by permanently allowing VA providers to perform cross-State disability exams and expanding the pool of providers who can perform medical disability examinations for the VA to include all licensed healthcare professionals.

These changes will help to address the shortage of qualified examiners in rural areas, specifically thereby reducing wait times and increasing the timely release of benefits to our veterans.

I have witnessed firsthand the challenges rural veterans in Arizona's Sixth Congressional District face in getting their medical exams completed in a timely manner.

This bill takes an essential first step toward eliminating these regional healthcare disparities and ensures that all veterans receive the quality care they deserve.

Mr. Speaker, I encourage all my colleagues to vote in support of H.R. 3951. We owe it to our servicemen and -women to make this commitment to timely healthcare access.

Madam Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor Kelly Pierce, who tragically and unexpectedly passed away on August 1 of this year.

Kelly was a beloved mom of three boys. She was a daughter, a granddaughter, a friend, a cousin, an aunt, and a women's soccer coach. Kelly coached at Pima Community College, Mountain View High School, CDO Soccer Club, and FC Tucson, but she was most recently known for coaching the Salpointe High School Lancers varsity women's soccer team, where she graduated from in 1999.

As a player, Kelly won two State championships, and later as coach, she led the Lancers to six State championships in the past 8 years, a truly remarkable feat.

Only 44 years old, Kelly was passionate and devoted to her family and her coaching. She was widely known in our community for her soccer talent and had been involved with youth soccer for nearly 20 years. She was an inspiration to young female athletes, instilling self-confidence and their power as individuals.

Among her cousins, she was the leader with all the confidence who was admired with the biggest, kindest, and most giving heart. Later in life, her boys were her everything. She was a

dedicated mom who always prioritized them and their well-being over anything else.

My prayers are with her three sons; Tyler, Brady, and Camden; her partner, Joey Bernier; her brothers, Jeff and Donald Pierce; and her large extended family, including her mom, grandmother, and cousins; plus all the players she loved so much, both current and former.

Kelly truly reflects what I love the most about our community and our district: hardworking, passionate, and dedicated. She leaves a humongous hole in our community and will be dearly missed.

As her family, friends, and the entire Salpointe community grieves, know that our community is alongside them. May Kelly's legacy on this Earth continue to inspire all of us today and our future generations. She will be dearly missed. May she rest in peace.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Jerry Consiglio, a World War II veteran, former mechanic and aerospace foreman, and a beloved fixture of the Sierra Vista community for more than four decades, who died in July just days before his 102nd birthday.

Born in 1923, Jerry served in the U.S. Army during World War II, where he participated in some of the most harrowing campaigns in Europe. He landed at Normandy on D-day and later fought in the brutal Battle of the Bulge.

Jerry was awarded two Bronze Stars and left the Army with the rank of sergeant. After the war, Jerry built a life grounded in hard work and community. He owned an auto shop and later worked in aerospace, contributing to the early development of the Boeing 747 landing gear at Aerojet.

Jerry moved to Sierra Vista more than 40 years ago. He built deep ties with the community and was well known amongst veterans. He attended Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church and had a vibrant social life even into his second century.

Jerry had relocated to Tennessee earlier this year to be close to family as his wife, Nancy, battled health concerns. Since his passing, his family plans to return his ashes to Sierra Vista, fulfilling his wishes to be remembered in the community that he loved.

My thoughts and prayers are with the Consiglio family and the Sierra Vista community. Jerry was a true role model for absolutely everyone.

Honoring Kelly Pierce

Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor Kelly Pierce, who tragically and unexpectedly passed away on August 1 of this year.

Kelly was a mom of three boys, and she was a daughter, granddaughter, friend, cousin, aunt, and a women's soccer coach.

Kelly coached at Pima Community College, Mountain View High School, CDO Soccer Club, and FC Tucson, but she was most recently known for coaching the Lancers, the varsity women's soccer team at Salpointe Catholic High School, where she graduated in 1999.

As a player, Kelly won two State championships. Later, as a coach, she led the Lancers to six State championships in the past 8 years, a truly remarkable feat.

Only 44 years old, Kelly was passionate and devoted to her family and coaching. She was widely known in our community for her soccer talent and had been involved with youth soccer for nearly 20 years. She was an inspiration to young female athletes, instilling self-confidence and their power as individuals.

Among her cousins, she was the leader with all the confidence, who was admired for the biggest and most giving heart.

Later in life, Kelly's boys were everything to her. She was a dedicated mother who always prioritized her boys and their well-being.

My prayers are with her three sons: Tyler, Brady, and Camden; her partner, Joey Bernier; her brothers, Jeff and Donald Pierce; and her large extended family, including her mom, grandmother, and cousins; plus the players she loved so much, both current and former.

Kelly truly reflects what I love most about our district. She was hardworking, passionate, and dedicated. She leaves a humongous hole in our community and will be dearly missed.

As her family, friends, and the Salpointe community grieve, know that our community is alongside you. May Kelly's legacy on this Earth continue to inspire future generations, and may she rest in peace.

Mr. Speaker, had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 191.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today with the unique opportunity to say congratulations to the fifth and sixth grade Team Army flag football team for winning the Northwest Tucson Under the Lights spring championship, a team that I had the pleasure and the privilege of coaching.

The spring season was our third undefeated season in a row and the second championship in the last three seasons. With this spring season championship, we have qualified to compete in the national tournament in Florida this July.

I absolutely love coaching, and I don't think there is anything better than that. I have been coaching most of these boys since they were in second grade, and it has been amazing seeing them grow up, compete together, and support each other like teammates always should.

My players--Kenny Ciscomani, Augie Axen, Mateo Brandt, Cooper Brayant, Braeydn Darby, Isaiah Davis, Bas Guthrie, Preston Harshberger, Warrick Mendoza, Dominic Olivito, and Cor Pinneo--throughout the entire year, and this season's playoffs in particular, played with grit, determination, and passion. In spite of being down by several possessions at different points, they kept their composure and executed the game plan perfectly against tough opposition. I congratulate the boys. They earned this victory. I am so proud to display the trophy right here in my office in Washington, D.C.

I thank the coaches who often had to take over due to my hectic schedule. We would not be here without them.

I thank the families and fans who came to cheer us on for being with us throughout it all. They were truly an indispensable part of our remarkable season.

The team should enjoy this championship. They earned it.

Now, on to nationals representing Arizona. Let's go get it.

Congratulating Jane Strain on Her Retirement

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate my dear friend and Army veteran Jane Strain on a well-deserved retirement as a trustee of Cochise College's governing board after an incredible 27 years.

Since even before being elected, I have been lucky to have Jane as a resource, and I have come to deeply respect her role as a community leader, a tireless advocate for our veterans, and a devoted volunteer.

A fighter and leader by example, Jane's work on behalf of our veterans is well known across Arizona, which is why I jumped at the opportunity to ask her to be a part of my veteran advisory council.

Jane's powerful voice, grounded by personal experience and genuine desire to help those who served, has been an invaluable resource for me and has greatly informed my efforts working to support the nearly 80,000 veterans in my district that they call home.

Jane's exceptional record reaches beyond our veterans. It also focuses on education and empowering our youth to reach their potential.

As a trustee of Cochise College's governing board, Jane has been instrumental in shaping Cochise College into the innovative institution it is today.

While Jane's retirement marks the end of an extraordinary chapter, I have no doubt that she will continue to do amazing work and will enjoy this new chapter being closer to her children and grandchildren.

On behalf of a grateful community, I thank Jane so much for her service. I look forward to hearing about Jane's next adventure and all the amazing things she will still be doing and be able to achieve.

Congratulating Salpointe Men's Baseball Championship

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to say congratulations to the Salpointe men's baseball team for their remarkable achievement in winning the 4A State championship.

In a thrilling match, they defeated Flagstaff by a score of 8 runs to 0, truly an incredible performance by all the players.

This victory earned Head Coach Danny Preble his second State championship since 2017.

I thank and congratulate Coach Preble, his staff, the players, parents, fans, and everyone who played a part in this special season. They made their school and community incredibly proud.

Once again, I congratulate them. Go Lancers. This is their victory. They earned it, so enjoy.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Empire High School's softball team for winning the 3A State Title.

The Ravens scored a run in the bottom of the eighth inning to defeat Yuma Catholic 1-0, earning their second straight State title and the fourth title in the last 10 years.

This victory caps off an amazing season for the Ravens who finished with an incredible record of 28 wins and only 1 loss.

I congratulate Coach Shannon Woolridge, the players, and everyone who played a part in this special season. They have made their school and community incredibly proud.

The Ravens should enjoy this victory they earned. Congratulations to the Ravens.

Congratulating Salpointe Women's Tennis Team

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Salpointe's women's tennis team for winning the Division II State Championship game.

In a thrilling set of matches, Salpointe defeated Canyon del Oro by a score of 5-2.

This is the first State championship since 2011 for Coach Theresa Sperduto. I know it must have meant a lot to be crowned as a champion once again.

Congratulations to all of the coaches, players, family members, and everyone who played a part in this special season. They have made their school and community incredibly proud. Go Lancers.

Congratulating Catalina Foothills Division II Champions

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Catalina Foothills Falcons boys' tennis team for winning the Division II State Championship game.

In a thrilling set of matches, the Falcons beat the number two ranked Notre Dame in a decisive manner by a score of 5-0.

This victory earned Coach Ben Loeb a remarkable milestone, 20 high school State championships. This State championship marked the Falcons' 10th title in 11 years. Now, that is impressive.

I congratulate and thank Coach Loeb, the players, and everyone who played a part in this special season. They made their school and community extremely proud.

I say to the Falcons, enjoy this victory. You earned it.

Congratulating Pusch Ridge Division III Women's Tennis Team

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Pusch Ridge Christian Academy Lions' women's tennis team for winning the Division III State championship game.

From starting this season with a loss in Nogales, this remarkable team overcame adversity and roared back to be crowned champions.

I congratulate Coach Andy Fetsis, all the players, and everybody who played a part in this special season. They should know that they have made their school and their community incredibly proud.

I say to the Lions, enjoy this victory. You earned it.

Congratulating Buena High School Colts All-State Title

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Buena High School Colts relay team on a remarkable achievement, winning the All- State Title in the 4 by 400 relay race.

After securing the Division II last year, they faced off against top schools from across the State and came out victorious and took the top honor, adding yet another trophy to their cabinet. What a remarkable achievement.

I congratulate and thank Coach Thomas; the relay squad, Ricardo Brooks, Armani Ramirez-Sperle, Vijay Carrier, and Jayden Thomas; and everyone who played a part in this remarkable season. They have made their school and the Sierra Vista community incredibly proud.

Congratulations to the Colts. May they enjoy this State championship. They earned it.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today during National Police Week to honor the men and women in law enforcement for their invaluable service to our Nation.

I especially thank all of the police officers in my district who work tirelessly to ensure that southeastern Arizona is safe, secure, and the best place to live and to carry out our own American Dream.

During times of crisis, when others run away, our brave police officers run toward danger, putting themselves at risk to protect life and property.

Their courage, selflessness, and dedication deserve our deepest respect, not just this week, but every single day.

Let us also remember, honor, and mourn the officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Their legacy lives on in the lives they protected, the officers they mentored, and the communities they kept safe.

Mr. Speaker, I thank every single office across this great Nation for their service. We are a stronger, safer, and more prosperous Nation because of them.

Recognition of Shanequa Matthias

Mr. Speaker, I rise today full of pride to congratulate Cochise County Teacher of the Year and Carmichael Elementary School's fifth grade teacher Shanequa Matthias.

Mr. Speaker, I thank her for her tireless efforts on behalf of our students.

I firmly believe that education is the pillar of the American Dream, and it is our teachers who care for our students, pass on the knowledge and skills that they need to succeed, and inspire them to dream big and embrace all of the opportunities our great Nation has to offer.

As a teacher, she embraced a nontraditional, engaging classroom style, where learning is less about memorization and more about creativity, play, and hands-on experience.

Her dedication, compassion, and unwavering belief in the potential of every single one of her students is deeply inspiring and has left a permanent mark on all who learn from her.

Her work is directly contributing to a bigger, better, and brighter future for Cochise County.

Mr. Speaker, I thank her for always uplifting her students. May she enjoy this well-deserved recognition. Once again, congratulations to Shanequa Matthias.

Congratulating Canyon del Oro High School

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate CDO High School in Oro Valley for receiving an A+ School of Excellence Award by the Arizona Educational Foundation, the highest level recognition given to a public school. Go Dorados.

Congratulating Innovation Academy in Oro Valley

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Innovation Academy in Oro Valley for receiving an A+ School of Excellence Award by the Arizona Educational Foundation, the highest State-level recognition given to a public school. Go Scorpions.

Congratulating Lawrence W. Cross Middle School

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Lawrence W. Cross Middle School in Tucson for receiving an A+ School of Excellence Award by the Arizona Educational Foundation, the highest State-level recognition given to a public school. Go Rams.

Congratulating Mica Mountain High School

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Mica Mountain High School in Tucson for receiving an A+ School of Excellence Award by the Arizona Educational Foundation, the highest State-level recognition given to a public school. Go Thunderbolts.

Congratulating Rattlesnake Ridge Elementary

MR. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Rattlesnake Ridge Elementary in Marana for receiving an A+ School of Excellence Award by the Arizona Educational Foundation, the highest State-level recognition given to a public school. Go Rattlesnakes.

Congratulating Sonoran Science Academy East

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Sonoran Science Academy East in Tucson for receiving A+ School of Excellence Award by the Arizona Educational Foundation, the highest State-Level recognition given to a public school. Go Eagles.

Congratulating Village Meadows Elementary

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Village Meadows Elementary in Sierra Vista for receiving an A+ School of Excellence Award by the Arizona Educational Foundation, the highest State-level recognition given to a public school. Go Wolves.

Congratulating Wrightson Ridge School

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Wrightson Ridge School in Sahuarita for receiving an A+ School of Excellence Award by the Arizona Educational Foundation, the highest State-level recognition given to a public school. Go Road Runners.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor George R. Cunningham, a dedicated public servant who passed away at age 80 on May 7, 2025 at his home in Tucson, Arizona.

George moved to Tucson as a boy with his family from Nashua, New Hampshire and it didn't take long for him to immerse himself in the civic affairs of his new home. His successful run for class president at Catalina High School was a clear indication of the path he was destined to take.

Over the decades that followed, George rose through the ranks like few others. He went from working as an intern for the city manager of one of Arizona's smallest municipalities to the top of state government. He served in the executive branch of government and he served in the legislative branch of government. He worked for Democrats and he worked for Republicans.

George never stopped serving and working for Arizona.

George was a 22-year-old graduate of the University of Arizona when he started as an assistant city manager for the City of South Tucson. He helped run this one-square-mile city as he earned a Master's Public Administration from his alma mater. This, too, was a sign of the path George was destined to take. He would go on to be a master at public administration.

Still in his twenties and now married, George left the city to become the executive director of the Tucson Urban Area Regional Review Committee. Under his leadership, the organization wisely streamlined its name to the Pima Association of Governments. This was 1970 and George was making $11,700 a year.

Opportunity knocked a year later and George took a position as an assistant to William Jacquin, a Tucson Republican who served as president of the Arizona Senate. George's salary went up to $13,200 a year and George moved up to Phoenix. When Jacquin stepped down to run for governor, George stayed on to work for his successor, Bob Stump, who would go on to serve 26 years in Congress. Stump at the time called George a hard working guy--``maybe the hardest working guy in the building.''

George's thorough understanding of the legislative process led to his next post, as an assistant to the president of the University of Arizona. Here, too, he rose through the ranks. He would go on to serve in a number of key positions at the university and play a leading role in shaping the institution we know today. One of his principal duties was lobbying state lawmakers--a task George understood and did well.

George was a UA vice president in 1988 when he was tapped to serve as chief of staff to Governor Rose Mofford, Arizona's first female governor and one of only three female governors in the country. It was a tremendous source of pride in Tucson at the time to have one of our own in such an influential position. According to a front-page profile in the Tucson Citizen, they suggested George could well be ``the most powerful man in all of state government.''

George was back in Tucson a couple years later and in 1992 launched his career as state lawmaker. He served in Arizona's House of Representatives until 1997 and in the Arizona Senate from 1997 to 2001.

After running for Congress and the Arizona Corporation Commission, George became Governor Janet Napolitano's Deputy Chief of Staff for Finance and Budget. And then, in what his son Paul says he considered one of his greatest accomplishments, George created the Grand Canyon Institute, a non-partisan think tank focused on public policies that affect the future of Arizona.

The future of Arizona mattered to George Cunningham. He served our state well.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today as a cosponsor of H. Res. 340, commemorating April as Community College Month to honor and recognize the more than 1,000 public, Tribal, and independent community colleges across the U.S.

Specifically, I want to highlight my alma mater, Pima Community College, and others from Arizona's Sixth Congressional District, Cochise College, Eastern Arizona College, and Central Arizona College.

Together with colleges across the Nation, these institutions serve over 10 million students, equipping them with the skills they need to thrive and succeed.

My time at Pima Community College was deeply impactful and gave me the tools that I needed to pursue my own American Dream, a dream that I am so blessed to live every single day.

For decades, community colleges have empowered students of all ages and backgrounds with the knowledge, certification, and hands-on skills they need to thrive and succeed. From nurses to welders, teachers to construction workers, and so much more, community colleges are responsible for training the workforce that drives our economy forward.

As we wrap up the month, I am proud to celebrate the vital role community colleges play in supporting our students, building communities, expanding opportunities, and strengthening our Nation.

Congratulating Michael Humphries

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Michael Humphries for his distinguished service as Nogales Port of Entry director.

After taking over Arizona's busiest border crossing in 2017, Director Humphries instituted policies that kept communities safe from dangerous contraband while ensuring trade and commerce continued to flow smoothly.

He uncovered record hauls of deadly fentanyl and other dangerous drugs and made sure that essential products like food and medical equipment made it through the port of entry without interruption, even during the COVID pandemic.

His efforts were critical to strengthening the security at our border while supporting economic vitality in southern Arizona.

On behalf of Arizona's Sixth Congressional District, I extend my deepest gratitude to Director Humphries for his years of service and wish him the very best during his well-deserved retirement.

Celebrating Casa Grande Fire Department Promotions

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the hard work, dedication, and courage of seven outstanding members of the Casa Grande Fire Department and congratulate them on a well-deserved promotion.

Congratulations to Captain Matthew Farmer, Chief Tony Fornaro, Battalion Chief Ryan Littrell, and Engineers Iveta Murray, Garrett Walker, Jose Serrano, and Tyler Bogart.

Their courage and selflessness keep our community safe. It is deeply honorable and much appreciated. I thank them for their service.

Congratulations on a well-deserved promotion.

Congratulating Orange Grove Middle School

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Arizona's Sixth Congressional District's own Orange Grove Middle School's eighth grade class for their big victory in the classroom, sweeping the Arizona Council on Economic Education's Economics Challenge.

This competition allows students to compete and test their knowledge on economics, monetary policy, international trade, and even the stock market.

What an incredibly bright group of young students. I know I definitely wasn't studying monetary policy in eighth grade like they are right now.

Since January, 32 students have been hard at work, voluntarily spending their Sundays preparing for this competition.

To all the students, teachers, and parents who had a role in this amazing achievement, I thank them for their dedication. They have proven themselves and made their school and community incredibly proud. They should enjoy this victory. They earned it.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of United States Air Corps sergeant and World War II veteran, Edward James McGraw.

A tail gunner, Purple Heart and Bronze Star recipient, prisoner of war survivor, beloved member of the Greatest Generation, and Green Valley resident, Edward McGraw represented the highest ideals of service, sacrifice, and resilience.

Shot down over France in 1944, Edward's bravery saved countless lives, even as he endured frostbite, captivity, and some of the hardest conditions of the war. While he faced unimaginable

challenges and harsh conditions, he continued to fight for his fellow countrymen and never lost his commitment to justice and freedom.

After the war, he built a joyful life, carrying with him a quiet strength from his time in service.

Edward's lifetime of service and his courage, grace, and patriotism will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

We will never forget the sacrifices that he and countless soldiers made for our freedoms. I thank Edward for his service, and may he rest in peace.

Recognizing Carlo Rivero and Clayton Ratliff

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and highlight Clayton Ratliff and Carlo Rivero, two young athletes from Arizona who were selected to play on the 12U USA Baseball team. This is a monumental achievement that reflects their dedication and perseverance to the sport.

Tryouts start with 25,000 hopeful participants with three rounds of eliminations, ultimately creating a final roster of only 18 players.

Clayton is a proud resident of Casa Grande and an aspiring baseball player who is well respected by everyone in his community. He is a pitcher and outfielder.

Carlo lives in Tucson and comes from a proud baseball family. His dad played college baseball, and his grandfather played professionally in the MLB. He plays as a pitcher and an infielder.

I am grateful for the opportunity to honor these two young athletes for their accomplishments at such a young age. I know we all look forward to rooting for them and seeing all the amazing things that they will accomplish in their baseball and academic careers.

Recognizing Andrada Polytechnic High School

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Andrada Polytechnic High School for receiving an A-plus School of Excellence Award by the Arizona Educational Foundation, the highest State-level recognition given to a public school.

Go Mavericks.