Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Airport Dedication Ceremony in honor of Mr. Duane Spalsbury.

Mr. Spalsbury served as an officer in the Army Air Corps during WWII. He served in the air force as a fighter pilot in the European Theater. He flew a variety of planes including P47, P51, P38, P39 and P63.

When he returned home from the war, he moved to the Gila Valley with his wife Laura Lee Golden where he worked as an accountant. Mr. Spalsbury also helped to found and serve as the first chairman of the Mt. Graham Community Hospital.

He then turned his attention to remote controlled airplanes. He built them and flew them. Mr Duane Spalsbury passed away in Safford, AZ on Friday, November 16, 2012.

We extend our gratitude for his dedicated service and are eternally thankful for his contributions to our country.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 37th Salute to Centenarians recently hosted by the Tucson Medical Center in Pima County. It is the largest gathering of all centenarians in the United States.

Honorees include retired generals, race car drivers, actors, and my friend Walter Ram, a World War II veteran. I am so grateful to represent them in Congress.

Arizona's Sixth District has more than 143 centenarians, making this the largest centenarian gathering in the United States.

I will continue to fight for our seniors in Congress. Recently, I introduced, with Don Davis from North Carolina, the Oversight of Medicare Billing Code Cost Act, which will increase transparency with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid. We must do everything in our power to protect Medicare and Medicaid for our seniors.

I am so proud to be representing great people like this in the district and will continue to fight for our seniors like this group of great centenarians.

Congratulating Deputy Chief Lawrence Boutte

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Deputy Chief Lawrence, known by his friends as Butch, Boutte on his retirement from the Sierra Vista Police Department in March.

With a law enforcement career spanning 26 years, Butch was committed to serving his community both on and off the force. His knowledge and leadership skills helped to shape the Sierra Vista police station.

Even before his career with the police department, Butch was no stranger to public service. He served in the Army for 4 years in military intelligence as an electronic warfare interceptor/locator.

Last year, Butch joined 11 other Arizonans in being recognized by the Canyon Vista Medical Center and the Legacy Foundation of Southeast Arizona in their Veterans Wall Ceremony.

As he enjoys a well-deserved retirement, he leaves behind an incredible legacy in Sierra Vista.

Laura and I join the entire community of Sierra Vista, Cochise County, and Arizona's Sixth District in thanking the deputy chief for his service. Men and women like him, who dedicate their lives to the safety of their neighbors, represent the very best of us.

Our Border is Broken

Mr. Speaker, let me be clear: Our border is broken and has been for a long time.

For 3 years, Americans across the Nation, and especially in border communities like mine, are suffering the consequences of this historic crisis every single day.

The ineffective open-border policies implemented by Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas have made our country less safe at a time when the world is most dangerous.

Disturbingly, new documents subpoenaed by the Homeland Security Committee uncover the egregious lengths Secretary Mayorkas goes to to ensure inadmissible migrants are let into the United States. The committee found that DHS used over 50 airports, including in my home State of Arizona, to help illegally process more than 400,000 inadmissible migrants into the country through their unlawful mass parole program.

Implementing this program was not done for the benefit of the public or for urgent humanitarian need. It was done as an unlawful sleight of hand by Secretary Mayorkas to hide the true scale of the crisis he created from the American people.

The Immigration and Nationality Act clearly states that parole may only be granted on a case-by-case basis for significant public benefit or urgent humanitarian need.

These flights are none of these things. Granting mass parole to hundreds of thousands of inadmissible migrants in this district is in direct violation of the law and is yet another in a long list of failures by the DHS Secretary that has been derelict in his duties.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor U.S. Army veteran and former Pima County Supervisor and my friend, Mr. Paul Marsh, for his service to our country, his advocacy for his fellow veterans, and his contributions to southern Arizona. His service in different capacities throughout the years has left a mark on our communities forever.

Paul's journey began when he enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1952, bravely serving in the medical corps during the Korean war until his honorable discharge in 1954.

His commitment to his country did not end there. It continued throughout his life as he has tirelessly advocated for veterans' rights and support services, specifically those which address chronic homelessness among our veterans.

His compassion and dedication to improving the lives of his fellow veterans knows no boundaries. As a founding member of the Arizona Veterans' Memorial Cemetery Foundation in Marana, Paul spent 10 years advocating for a final resting place for our Nation's heroes in Tucson.

Paul understood the importance of having a central location for family members to visit their loved ones and started the Arizona Veterans' Memorial Cemetery.

Despite facing numerous challenges along the way, the Arizona Veterans' Memorial Cemetery broke ground in 2014, thanks in large part to Paul.

A few short years later, I reconnected with Paul when I was with the State of Arizona, and the cemetery needed signage on the I-10.

Paul was determined to see it happen, and I am proud to have played a very small part in that, in his ensuring that there was visibility for the Arizona Veterans' Memorial Cemetery in Marana.

I am grateful to Paul for his own service, his continued advocacy, and his unwavering dedication to his fellow veterans.

Paul, your work will forever inspire us to strive for a better world for all who have served our country.

Honoring the Life of Jacob Dindinger

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember the life of Jacob Dindinger, one of Arizona's brave first responders who tragically passed away on July 29, 2021. At just 20 years old, Jacob lost his life while serving our community so bravely in Tucson.

He was a graduate of CDO High School in 2019 and earned his EMT certificate in May of 2020 from Pima Community College.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember the life of Lieutenant Commander Lou Conter, the last survivor of the USS Arizona during the attacks on Pearl Harbor.

At 102 years old, Lou passed away in his home in Grass Valley, California, surrounded by his family on April 1, 2024.

He enlisted at the age of 18 and just two short years later was at the center of the Pearl Harbor attacks on December 7, 1941.

Then quartermaster, Lou was on the deck when the ship was hit. Ultimately, 1,177 of his shipmates from the USS Arizona perished that day.

He went on to serve 27 years in the Navy, rising to the rank of lieutenant commander. He spent his life keeping the memories of Pearl Harbor alive, educating others and even doing interviews up until he was 100 years old.

Lieutenant Commander Conter was committed to helping others in times of need and truly loved making a difference in his community.

He leaves behind a daughter, Louann Daley; three sons, Tony, Jim, and Jeff; stepson, Ron; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

We will never forget his sacrifice or the sacrifice of his fellow sailors on the USS Arizona. We extend our gratitude for his dedicated service and are eternally thankful for his contributions.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my friend from Alabama for yielding me time. I am glad to see this body taking up my border security legislation today alongside these other important packages as well.

Now, the gentleman from New York calls this a joke. Well, I don't know what he finds funny, but nothing about this situation is funny. It is not funny to our Border Patrol agents; it is not funny to my border communities; and it is certainly not funny to the hundreds of thousands of women and children being trafficked by the Mexican cartels at our southern border. There is nothing funny about this situation.

Let's be clear: Our border is broken and has been for a long time. At a time where our world is more dangerous than ever and our adversaries are emboldened, protecting our homeland is our most critical priority. Attacks by our adversaries have spurred the urgent need to support our allies. Congress should be able and must do both, and it all starts with a secure border, Mr. Speaker.

This bill takes major strides in addressing our porous border. It would immediately restart construction of the border wall, end the disastrous catch and release policies, and streamline the asylum process. We have seen policies that work, including remain in Mexico and Asylum Cooperative Agreements in the Northern Triangle. This bill would start the process of going back to those policies and, in turn, stem the flow we are seeing.

The United States Congress is the most powerful body in the world. We must be able to support our allies while we protect our homeland as well.

The world is looking to America for strength, and our country is looking to Washington for leadership. The administration is nowhere to be found, has been nowhere to be found. We must step up and fill the gaps the White House has left by their weakened foreign and domestic policy stances.

Since January of 2021, there have been more than 7.6 million migrant encounters at our southwestern border. In addition to this staggering 7.6 million, estimates suggest upwards of 1.8 million additional illegal immigrants that evaded Border Patrol and entered our country. Most notably, 169 individuals on the terrorist watch list were apprehended at the border in FY23.

These are no longer just families coming to America in search of a better life. In FY24 so far, we have witnessed over 20,000 Chinese nationals at the southwest border. Encounters of Chinese nationals have already surpassed all of last fiscal year.

I recently went to Israel and personally walked through the devastation of October 7. Make no mistake, Hamas wishes the same fate on Americans.

This bill does not just address a major national security weakness, it solves a crisis that millions of Americans already live with. In my district alone, we have seen close to 1,000 migrants per day enter our communities. Arizonans have seen a spike in high-speed car chases and illicit activity by Mexican cartels.

In FY 2023, fentanyl overdoses in the U.S. rose above 112,000. Fentanyl overdose death is becoming the number one cause of death among young people in my home county of Pima County.

My colleagues from New York to Oregon have seen the effects of our border crisis in their own communities. We must send the signal that the U.S. southern border is not open. Our adversaries, whether it is the Mexican cartels or the CCP, will seize any moment to take advantage of American weakness.

Each of these packages take a firm stance to stand with our allies in Israel, Taiwan, and Ukraine. In turn, my bill takes a firm stance on America's strength in our homeland. Mr. Speaker, this is personal to me. Not only is it the number one issue in my district, it is the number one issue for Republicans and Democrats in my district as well.

I am a third-generation American. I immigrated here with my family when I was a young boy. Today, the open-border policies of the Biden administration are not the way of the American dream. It dilutes and diminishes the efforts and sacrifice of so many immigrants that came before us to open the way, invest in this country, and became Americans.

It is fueling human trafficking and enabling the cartels and flooding our country with fentanyl and other deadly drugs. America is the land of opportunity. I believe that. I am a proud product of the American dream, living it every single day, Mr. Speaker. But the crisis at our southern border is not the American Dream. It is a nightmare. We must take steps to secure our southern border immediately. This legislation is a start. I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes.''

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the town of Oro Valley's 50th anniversary.

On April 15, 1974, Oro Valley started as a small town with only 1,200 people. Today, it has grown into a booming community with a population of over 48,000 Arizonans.

The town recently celebrated its 50th anniversary with community performances from local bands, fireworks, and parades. This celebration was a testament to the sense of community and strong neighborly values my family and I have been fortunate enough to experience ourselves over the years.

Mr. Speaker, I thank Mayor Winfield and Vice Mayor Barrett for their leadership of the community.

I am so proud to represent Oro Valley and so many other wonderful communities like this in our district.

Remembering the Life of Lead Police Officer Adam R. Buckner

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember the life of Lead Police Officer Adam R. Buckner, one of Arizona's brave law enforcement officers who tragically passed away on Sunday, March 31, 2024.

At just 31 years old, Adam lost his life while serving our community so bravely in Tucson.

Officer Buckner started his law enforcement career with the New Orleans Police Department in 2017 and then joined the Tucson Police Department in November 2021.

Officer Buckner recently won the Midtown Division's Officer of the Month award for his dedication to the community. His commitment to community service shined bright during his time as a lead police officer at the Tucson Police Department.

Officer Buckner was committed to helping others in times of need and truly loved the Tucson community. He is remembered as a loyal, kind, and selfless friend and remains a true hero in the hearts of our Tucson community.

Officer Buckner is survived by his wife, mother, sister, and three brothers. We will never forget Officer Buckner's sacrifice or the ultimate sacrifice of any first responder. His death is a reminder that our police, fire, and medical personnel and all first responders risk their lives every time they put on the uniform. We extend our gratitude for his dedicated service and are eternally grateful for his contributions.

U.S.-Israel Friendship More Crucial Than Ever

Mr. Speaker, this past week, Iran has launched a direct, aggressive, unprovoked attack on our ally, Israel.

I was on the ground in Israel less than 2 weeks ago with a group of 18 of my colleagues to hear from Israeli police, soldiers, and officials about the importance of the United States' partnership.

As Israel defends itself in their war against Hamas, Iran, and other proxy terrorists, the U.S.-Israel friendship is more crucial than ever. I met with families of hostages and visited sites of the October 7 attacks, one of the most impactful parts of my visit.

We have seen the names, numbers, and footage, but when you meet the families who lost loved ones or visit with them like we did this week, it is even more gut-wrenching.

We also met with several Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Herzog.

Mr. Speaker, 193 days is how long the Israeli hostages have been held by Hamas terrorists. In Israel, I spoke with the families of the hostages. For months, these families have agonized over not knowing the status of their loved ones. As a parent myself, it is an unimaginable pain. We must stand in solidarity with Israel and bring every hostage home now.

It was a somber but incredibly impactful visit and only reinforced my support for our friends in Israel.

Then, 6 days after I returned, Iran launched an attack on our ally, Israel. Over the weekend, Iran launched an attack on Israel that included the use of 185 drones, 110 surface-to-surface missiles, and 36 cruise missiles. Despite the scale, this attack was rendered unsuccessful due to Israel's multilayered air defense and its partnership with the United States.

I am now more than ever going to continue to protect the U.S.-Israel relationship. I am a proud cosponsor of the Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act.

This body must act now. We need to come together to support our ally. Time is of the essence.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to stand united on this issue immediately.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Chiricahua National Monument on the centennial anniversary of its designation as a national monument.

Recently, I visited the Chiricahua National Monument and explored parts of the 12,000 acres of hiking trails, campgrounds, and scenic views.

Chiricahua National Monument is one of the most treasured landmarks in Arizona. This ``Wonderland of Rocks'' features unique, boulder- balancing rock pillars formed by volcanic eruptions. These abstract formations draw visitors from across the nation and around the world to the Southeast corner of our state.

It is a privilege to have this incredible landscape in our own backyard. Not only does it provide great recreational opportunity and natural habitat, it is also a major driver for southern Arizona's economy.

The monument annually supports over 40 jobs and produces $4.4 million of economic output, with 60,000 visitors that come each year generating $4.1 million in spending.

Last year, I proudly introduced a bipartisan bill, the Chiricahua National Park Act (H.R. 1479), aiming to update the national monument to the status of a national park.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor U.S. Army veteran and former Pima County Supervisor, Paul Marsh for his service to our country, his advocacy for his fellow veterans, and his contributions to southern Arizona.

His service in different capacities throughout the years has left a mark on our communities forever.

Paul's journey began when he enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1952, bravely serving in the Medical Corps during the Korean War until his honorable discharge in 1954.

His commitment to his country did not end there. It continued throughout his life as he has tirelessly advocated for veterans' rights and support services, specifically those which address chronic homelessness among veterans.

His compassion and dedication to improving the lives of his fellow veterans knows no boundaries.

As a Founding Member of the Arizona Veterans' Memorial Cemetery Foundation in Marana, Paul spent 10 years advocating for a final resting place for our nation's heroes in Tucson.

With veteran cemeteries in Flagstaff and one in Sierra Vista, Paul understood the importance of having a central location for family members to visit their loved ones and started the Arizona Veterans' Memorial Cemetery.

Despite facing numerous challenges along the way, the Arizona Veterans Memorial Cemetery broke ground in 2014, thanks in large part to Paul.

A few short years later, I reconnected with Paul while I was with the State of Arizona and the cemetery needed signage near I-10.

Paul was determined to see it happen and I am proud to have been a small part in ensuring there was visibility for the Arizona Veterans' Memorial Cemetery in Marana.

I am grateful to Paul for his own service, his continued advocacy, and his unwavering dedication to his fellow veterans.

His work will forever inspire us to strive for a better world for all who have served our country.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Marana Junior Little League Softball team that made it to the Little League Junior Softball World Series quarterfinals. This team is the only team from Marana Little League Baseball and Softball to advance to a world series.

It was not an easy road for the team during the West Regional Junior League Tournament. They had to win five consecutive elimination games, and their final game was delayed for over 2 hours. Yet, they still came home with the win, and during the Junior League Softball World Series, the Marana Junior League Softball team made it all the way to the quarterfinals.

The team is coached by Head Coach Sam Mills, Coach Jason Angell, and Coach Chris Beck.

The 12 extraordinary players are Addison Angell, Addison Lee, Adelaide Bradshaw, Aubrianna Gray, Bella Brooks-Rojel, Bella Sayre, Brooke Beck, Cadence Beck, Emma Winter, Kyla Layton, Malia Mills, and Mariah Moreno.

These young girls have a bright future ahead of them, and I am excited to see what the future holds for all of them.

Way to represent Marana and Arizona in the World Series, and congratulations.

Congratulating Coach Misty Opat

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Misty Opat, the women's basketball coach at Cochise College, who recently achieved her 300th career win.

Misty has over two decades of collegiate coaching experience and is in her fourth year at Cochise College. Last week, under Misty's coaching, the women's basketball team clinched their seat in the NJCAA National Tournament.

Misty recently said she would rather impact 300 lives than get 300 wins, but I think it is safe to say that she has done both.

I congratulate Misty and the Apaches, the Cochise College Women's Basketball team. They have made Cochise County and southern Arizona very proud.

Honoring Mica Mountain's Kim Farr

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Kim Farr, a teacher of Mica Mountain High School and the Arizona Athletics 2023- 2024 High School Teacher of the Year.

Kim Farr has been a teacher for over 17 years. Throughout her career, she has taught science classes of all levels, from biology to AP research.

Outside of the classroom, you can find Mrs. Farr coaching swimming and traveling the world with students in Costa Rica, Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands, and Belize.

I congratulate all the nominees from southern Arizona: Mark Calton from Marana High School, Jordan Castle from CDO High School, Abigail Francis from Mountain View High School, Bridget Montoya from Flowing Wells High School, Tiffany Newton from Andrada Polytechnic High School, Cristina Parks from Cienega High School, Shawn Smith from Amphi High School, and Michelle Tozer from Empire High School.

I am grateful for all the teachers and everything they do. I am proud to represent them in Congress, and I thank them for the work that they do for our next generation.

Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that when the House adjourns today, it adjourn to meet at noon on Monday next for morning-hour debate and 2 p.m. for legislative business.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Jose Samaniego, who passed away in 2017, far too early at the age of 33.

Jose was a firefighter for the Golden Ranch Fire District and will be remembered for his passion for community service.

Jose Samaniego also served on the board of the North Tucson Firefighters Association, Local 3832, working to better the community through fundraisers for local foster families.

Jose began his career as a wildland firefighter and member of the Avra Valley Fire District before going to Raytheon Missile Systems.

In 2012, Jose went to work for Golden Ranch, where he became a member of the special operations team.

Beyond his firefighter achievements, Jose was a devoted husband to Serena and a loving father to four children: Andres, Alysha, Adam, and Annabella, who I had the pleasure of meeting recently and was impressed with their drive and their dedication. They have bright futures ahead of them, knowing that they proudly carry the legacy of their dad.

In honor of Jose, the North Tucson Firefighters Association started the annual Jose Samaniego Memorial Archery Shoot and BBQ Challenge. I was honored to attend this event this past Saturday on March 2 and had the opportunity to meet his entire family and experience firsthand why the event is a fitting tribute to the passion that Jose had for his community and also his fire family, as well as his love for the outdoors.

Jose Samaniego remains a true hero in the hearts of the greater Tucson community and the residents of my district. We extend our gratitude for his dedicated service and are eternally thankful for his contributions.

Mi Nidito Restaurant

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mi Nidito and its owners, Jimmy and Ernie Lopez.

Mi Nidito, the Lopez family's restaurant, has been a staple in Tucson for 72 years.

Jimmy and Ernie's grandparents, Ernesto and Alicia Lopez, first opened the restaurant doors in 1952. Since then, the Lopez family has tirelessly upheld Mi Nidito's legacy for three generations.

Arizonans and visitors from across the country and around the world have stood in line for hours to get a taste of their renowned chile rellenos and enchilada-style burritos, as well.

Over the last seven decades, Mi Nidito has also had some notable guests, including then-President Bill Clinton, who visited the restaurant in 1999.

As Jimmy and Ernie begin a well-deserved retirement, Laura and I want to thank them and the entire Lopez family for their contributions to our community.

Salpointe Girls Basketball

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Salpointe girls' basketball team for winning the 4A State championship.

In an exciting game, they secured victory over Gilbert's Mesquite High by a score of 59-49.

This marks the Lancer's second State championship in the last three seasons. Their hard work and perseverance over the past season has been truly commendable.

I am proud to represent such dedicated student athletes, determined coaches, and supportive parents.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Coach Joseph Luevano and this talented team for a well-earned title.

Recognizing Michael Hyatt

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize retiring Border Patrol agent, Michael Hyatt.

Mr. Hyatt currently serves as the agent in charge at the Brian A. Terry Station near Naco, Arizona.

He will retire later this month, ending a 28-year career with Border Patrol.

After joining in 1996, Michael spent the majority of his time with Border Patrol in Arizona, with 11 years at the Naco Station.

His work as agent in charge has been praised by Cochise County residents, specifically for his tireless community outreach and strong relationships with ranchers.

As Michael prepares for a well-deserved retirement, I personally thank him for all his hard work.

Mr. Speaker, had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on rollcall No. 60.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and remember U.S. Air Force General Earl T. O'Loughlin, who passed away November 10, 2023, at the age of 93 years old. General O'Loughlin was a distinguished four-star general, who commenced his military journey during the Cold War in 1951.

An exceptional pilot, he navigated various aircraft, ranging from the B-29 to the KC-135. Over the course of his career, he accumulated approximately 6,000 flying hours, including 224 combat hours. Beyond his military achievements, Earl was a devoted husband to Thelma Bentley, a loving father to his daughter, Kris Rudin, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and a cherished friend.

The general emphasized the mantra ``freedom isn't free'' throughout his entire life. Among his numerous accolades are the Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, and Air Force Commendation Medal adorned with four oakleaf clusters.

In the hearts of the Tucson community and the residents of District 6, General O'Loughlin remains a true hero.

We extend our gratitude for his dedicated service, and I am eternally thankful for his contributions.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Pusch Ridge Christian Academy boys' soccer team for winning the 3A State championship.

By beating the number one ranked Gilbert Christian School, they secured the title with a score of 2-1.

Pusch Ridge Christian Academy is known for its sports and does not fail to disappoint when it comes to State championships.

Head Coach Geoff Neale led the team to the championship alongside Assistant Coaches Adam Odell and Taric Doyle.

This team has a great future ahead of them. I am excited to see what the future holds for all of them.

As Congressman of Arizona's Sixth Congressional District, I take pride in the accomplishments of these talented young athletes.

Keep up the great work. Congratulations.

Recognizing Salpointe Catholic High School Boys' Soccer Team

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Salpointe Catholic High School boys' soccer team. The Lancers won their fourth straight 4A State championship, defeating the Mica Mountain High School Thunderbolts 4-1.

Salpointe's fourth straight State title ties the school with Lakeside Blue Ridge, Chino Valley, and Yuma Catholic for the most consecutive State championships in Arizona's history.

Wolfgang Weber, head coach of the boys' soccer program and a legendary local youth soccer coach, led the team to their 11th State championship.

I am so proud of these boys, and I am excited to see where their soccer careers take them.

Go Lancers. Congratulations.

Recognizing the Salpointe Catholic High School Wrestling Team

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Salpointe Catholic High School wrestling team. Nate Higgins and Che Jenkins, class of 2025, secured the State championship for the Salpointe Catholic Lancers this year.

Their dedication, skill, and perseverance have brought immense pride to their school. Salpointe Catholic High School is a hub for athletes in our district, offering 26 sports with 52 teams. With those, the Lancers have won 78 State championships.

Mr. Speaker, I am excited to see the bright and promising futures of these exceptional athletes as they excel both on and off the mat.

Congratulations.

Congratulating Walden Grove High School Girls' Soccer Team

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Walden Grove High School girls' soccer team for winning the Arizona 4A State championship.

In an exciting match, Coach Troy Bosley and his team secured victory over Salpointe by two goals with a final score of 3-1.

This was Walden Grove's first State championship since 2014. Their dedication and perseverance throughout the past year has been truly commendable. It is no surprise that they emerged with the victory this season.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to represent such talented student athletes, determined coaches, and supportive parents.

Keep up the great work, and congratulations.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to share the story of Omri Miran, a 46-year-old husband and father of two small daughters.

On October 7, Omri was 1 of more than 240 men, women, children, and elderly who were brutally kidnapped by Hamas terrorists.

He and 134 hostages are still held captive in Gaza, enduring unthinkable torture and trauma.

I stand here today to demand that Hamas release Omri immediately, along with all the remaining hostages.

Those who have been released have shared horror stories of abuse, children being forced to take drugs, and inhumane conditions.

We must stand with Israel as it works to destroy Hamas and free its citizens wrongfully held by the terror group.

Israel has proven its willingness to pause the fighting for hostages to be returned home. Despicably, Hamas broke the first hostage deal just as it broke a cease-fire that was in place before October 7.

I call on all nations with ties to Hamas to increase the pressure on the terrorist group to immediately free all of those it is holding captive.

Hostages like Omri Miran have endured horrific abuse, sexual assault, torture, and heavy drugging from their Hamas captors. It is time to bring Omri home. It is time to bring them all home now.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize someone who made a resounding impact on both me personally and also the Tucson community: My mentor, my pastor, and my friend, Arnoldo Gutierrez.

Throughout his life, Pastor Gutierrez played many roles, from Air Force veteran to pastor and loving father and grandfather.

Having served his Nation during the Vietnam war, he taught me how to live my faith, how to live a life of public service, and how to live a life with a strong sense of true patriotism. While he and his generation fought a thankless war in Vietnam, Arnoldo Gutierrez remained an unwavering patriot and was the perfect example of the American Dream.

He immigrated to the United States when he was 3 years old. He was a standout high school athlete who enlisted in the United States Air Force in his senior year of high school. He met the love of his life while he was serving in Spain, Belen.

He retired after 21 years of service, founded a church in south Tucson, and continued his service to his community that way.

Today, I extend my deepest appreciation to Arnoldo Gutierrez and all those who served our Nation. He passed away Thanksgiving weekend of 2017. Not a day goes by when I don't remember him and the lessons he taught me.

Today he is laid to rest in Tucson, Arizona, but I know his legacy will live on forever in our community and in all those whose lives he touched.

In honoring Arnoldo Gutierrez, we not only recognize his contributions but also recognize the sacrifice and bravery of all our veterans. May he rest in peace.

Recognizing SkillsUSA Region 6 Competitors

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding southern Arizona high schoolers who showcased their construction skills at the SkillsUSA Region 6 construction competition.

Hosted at Catalina High School, this event welcomed 120 high school students eager to put their skills to the test. These students worked over the weekend in seven distinct construction-related categories, from plumbing to cabinetmaking.

SkillsUSA, a national organization dedicated to promoting career and technical education, hosts competitions annually at local, State, and national levels. The competition wasn't limited to construction alone. Other SkillsUSA events span various categories, from robotics to media arts, and took place throughout the entire weekend in Tucson.

Participating high schools came from all across southern Arizona, including Benson Unified School District, Bisbee Unified School District, Douglas Unified School District, Duncan Unified School District, Sierra Vista Unified School District, Pima County JTED, Pima Unified School District, and many more.

It is inspiring to see the dedication and talent of these hardworking students. I look forward to seeing what the future holds for them.

University of Arizona Mining School

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the University of Arizona San Xavier Mining Lab where our next generation in the mining industry is growing and learning.

The School of Mining and Geological Engineering dates back to 1885, standing as one of University of Arizona's founding programs. This lab has notable achievements, including being ranked first nationally in metallurgical engineering and fourth nationally in mining engineering programs. In addition, it also has a commendable track record of 100 percent job placement for graduating seniors.

Recently, I led a group of my Western Caucus colleagues on a trip to the San Xavier mining site where they were able to meet students and see firsthand the innovation happening there. This program is leading the country in developing our future leaders in mining. They have set the standard for mining engineering programs and are an incredible point of pride for our community.

I recognize the students, professors, and stakeholders who work tirelessly as a part of this program. Of course, Bear Down.