Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Honorable Judge Maryellen Hicks and to recognize the renaming ceremony held in her name, a tribute to a trailblazing jurist whose legacy has profoundly shaped Tarrant County and the State of Texas. This historic occasion, led by the Black Women Lawyers Association, reflects Judge Hicks's extraordinary impact on the legal profession and her commitment to justice and public service.

Judge Hicks's distinguished career stands as a testament to perseverance, excellence, and leadership. As the first African American woman to graduate from Texas Tech University School of Law in 1974, Judge Hicks broke numerous barriers in Tarrant County, serving as the first Black female Municipal Judge, Chief Municipal Judge, Probate Court Master, District Judge of the 231st Court, and later on the Second Court of Appeals. Her service on the bench was defined by integrity, and a deep respect for the rule of law, earning her the trust and admiration of colleagues and community members alike.

Beyond her judicial service, Judge Hicks has been a dedicated mentor and role model, investing in the growth and advancement of future legal professionals. Her influence extends far beyond the courtroom, leaving an enduring mark on the legal landscape through her advocacy, guidance, and commitment to ensuring equal access to justice for all.

The decision by the Black Women Lawyers Association to formally change its name in honor of Judge Hicks reflects the magnitude of her contributions and the lasting legacy she leaves behind. This renaming not only celebrates her accomplishments but also serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of representation, leadership, and service in the pursuit of justice.

Today, as we gather to commemorate this momentous occasion, we celebrate and extend our deepest gratitude to the Honorable Judge Maryellen Hicks for her lifetime of service and the profound difference she has made in our community. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations of attorneys, judges, and leaders who strive to build a more just and equitable society.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Ms. Brenda Sanders-Wise for her extraordinary life of service, historic leadership, and enduring commitment to preserving the cultural legacy of Tarrant County through her lasting contributions to the Tarrant County Black Historical and Genealogy Society, and the Lenora Rolla Heritage Center Museum.

Despite facing the harsh realities of segregation, which once prevented her from continuing her education in the very school district she now serves, Ms. Sanders-Wise persevered. She went on to become the first Black graduate of Haltom High School and, years later, made history again as the first Black school board trustee of Birdville Independent School District. Her journey stands as a testament to resilience, courage, and faith in the power of progress.

For more than five decades, Ms. Sanders-Wise has been a steadfast steward of Fort Worth's Black history and culture. As Executive Director of the Tarrant County Black Historical and Genealogical Society, a role she has held with distinction for 15 years, she has preserved irreplaceable narratives, provided educational programming and genealogy workshops for adults and children, and championed the importance of historical truth. Her

leadership has also guided the development of the Lenora Rolla Heritage Center Museum, fulfilling a long-held vision to create a permanent home dedicated to Fort Worth's Black history and culture.

Ms. Sanders-Wise's tenure has been marked by passion, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to historical truth. Through her guidance, the Society has remained a vital institution, strengthening community pride and honoring the legacy of pioneers such as the late Honorable Frank Moss, whose vision continues to inspire this important work.

As the Tarrant County Black Historical and Genealogical Society gathers under the theme ``A Legacy of Love--A Garden of Gratitude'' to celebrate her retirement, it is fitting that we pause to reflect on the profound impact of Ms. Sanders-Wise's labor of love. Her leadership has not only enriched our understanding of the past but has also laid a strong foundation for future generations to learn, grow, and lead.

Today, we commend Ms. Brenda Sanders-Wise for her years of faithful service and extend our deepest gratitude for her enduring contributions to history, culture, and community. We wish her a joyful and fulfilling retirement, and we celebrate a legacy that will continue to bloom for generations to come.

Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor the life and legacy of my good friend and former Fort Worth City Councilmember, Franklin Douglas Moss, better known as Frank Moss.

Frank Moss was an incredible man. He worked in real estate and had his own real estate firm, Moss RED Group. He was so well known throughout the community for the work that he did in the Stop Six area and the Carver Heights community in which he lived. He was just an incredible believer in the community, helping on maternal health issues, HIV awareness, and preserving historic neighborhoods.

He was an incredible person, and the family had just such a long and distinguished legacy of service to the community, as his wife was one of our former school board members. However, most of all, Frank Moss was the keeper of the Black history in Fort Worth, Texas. He knew about the first African-American politicians, doctors, lawyers, dentists, people who really helped change and shape Fort Worth for all. He did such a tremendous job in sharing those stories.

I know that he is going to be missed as a deacon at Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church in Fort Worth, where he was a proud member. We will all miss Frank not just because of his work on the council, but because he really cared about making sure that stories in our community were elevated in Fort Worth and Tarrant County. That is something that we will all truly miss.

My prayers go out to his family during this time.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Bishop Kenneth Spears, pastor of First St. John Missionary in Fort Worth, who passed way suddenly on November 17.

Bishop Spears was a proud son of Fort Worth and devoted more than four decades of his life to the ministry and service and spiritual uplift of our community.

Bishop Spears answered his calling at just 17 years old, and from that moment forward, he dedicated himself to learning, teaching, and leading. He pursued theology study at Bishop College, which he was very proud of, and the United Theological Seminary College there.

In 1995, he faithfully shepherded First Saint John Cathedral, guiding its growth to a vibrant multicampus ministry with much outreach. His ``Be Restored'' broadcast reached thousands each week, offering hope, healing, and encouraging words.

Within the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship, he rose to the district overseer to state bishop of north Texas and was always committed to expanding the Fellowship's reach and strengthening its mission.

Bishop Spears was not only a spiritual leader but he also was the author of several books. He served alongside his wife, Angela, and his sons, Kenneth and Kyle, who were the joy of his life.

Mr. Speaker, Bishop Spears' ministry transformed lives in Fort Worth and north Texas, and I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring his extraordinary service, his enduring faith, and the powerful legacy that he leaves behind.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a legend in Arlington, Texas, who passed away, the former mayor of Arlington, Elzie Odom. He was 96 years old. Mayor Odom was a trailblazer in every sense of the word. Born in east Texas, he moved to Arlington and made his mark in the city very quickly.

His journey was a testament to a determination of dignity and faith. He was an elected official in Arlington for 14 years and very active in the Mount Olive Baptist Church in Arlington, Texas, where he and his wife, Ruby, of 78 years spent most of their time worshipping.

He was very instrumental in making sure that we kept General Motors in Arlington. We almost lost the plant back in the 1990s, and it was Elzie's leadership that helped us keep the plant. He kept the Texas Rangers baseball club there as well. He talked about bringing the Olympics to Arlington, and people didn't believe it would happen, but then it got serious consideration, and we were on the short list.

This was an incredible man.

His daughter, who is on the city council, Barbara Odom-Wesley, said that he taught others that ``service is the price you pay for the space you occupy.''

I have to tell you there are so many things that I can say great about Mayor Odom, but this man absolutely loved his family. His grandkids called him Grandee, and he and his wife of 78 years had one of the most beautiful relationships in all of the Dallas-Fort Worth- Arlington area.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions and enduring legacy of the Junior League of Arlington (JLA), an organization that has been empowering women and strengthening the Arlington community for nearly five decades.

Founded on October 22, 1975, as the Service League of Arlington with 45 charter members, the organization was officially welcomed into the Association of Junior Leagues International on February 22, 1982, becoming the 248th Junior League and adopting the name Junior League of Arlington. Since that time, JLA has remained steadfast in its mission to advance women's leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration, and training.

Over the years, the Junior League of Arlington has invested more than $3 million and over one million volunteer hours into more than 100 local agencies. Through these efforts, the League has made a tangible difference in the lives of countless residents across North Texas. This year alone, JLA is providing $100,000 in grants to 10 community organizations, continuing its long tradition of philanthropy and partnership.

Beyond its financial and volunteer contributions, the Junior League of Arlington's influence is seen in its enduring commitment to service and empowerment. From its collaboration with Arlington ISD on the annual Back to School Kick-off at AT&T Stadium, to its many ``Done in a Day'' projects, JLA consistently answers the call to serve families, women, and children in need.

As the League begins a new chapter in its new home at Wellspring on Main--The Arlington Center for Community Engagement--it reaffirms its dedication to building stronger, more inclusive communities. Through leadership training, volunteerism, and a commitment to diversity, equity, and belonging, JLA continues to shape women into leaders who create lasting, positive change.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the Junior League of Arlington for its nearly 50 years of outstanding service, leadership, and community partnership. The League's unwavering dedication to empowering women and strengthening the Arlington community stands as a model of civic engagement and compassion for us all.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the remarkable legacy of Mrs. Shirley Knox Benton, a pioneering educator whose leadership and vision broke barriers as the first female principal in her community.

Throughout her distinguished career, Mrs. Benton dedicated herself to creating opportunities for young people, ensuring that every student had access not only to quality education but also to the encouragement and support needed to succeed. Her historic appointment as the first woman to lead a school as principal paved the way for generations of women to follow in her footsteps, serving as a beacon of progress and possibility.

Mrs. Benton's leadership extended beyond the classroom. She championed innovation in education, built meaningful partnerships with families and communities, and instilled in her students a lasting sense of discipline, perseverance, and hope. Her contributions have had a profound and enduring impact, shaping not only the schools she led but also the countless lives she touched.

Today, we celebrate Mrs. Shirley Knox Benton not only for her historic achievement but also for her unwavering devotion to education and the advancement of future generations. Her example continues to inspire, reminding us of all of the power of determination, service, and trailblazing leadership.

I congratulate Mrs. Benton on a legacy that she will endure for many more years through the lives of those she guided and inspired.

Mr. Speaker, I am deeply heartbroken over the loss of Miguel Angel Garcia-Hernandez, who succumbed to his injuries following the horrific shooting at the Dallas ICE facility. Miguel was a husband, a father, and a hardworking man whose greatest joy was providing for and being present with his family. His death is an immeasurable tragedy that has left a lasting void for those who loved him most.

My prayers and deepest condolences are with Miguel's wife, Stephany Gauffeny, their four children, and the baby they were expecting, as they face this devastating loss. To lose a loved one under such violent circumstances is a burden no family should ever bear. His loved ones should know that they are not alone in their grief--our community mourns alongside them, and we extend every measure of compassion and support possible.

We will always remember Miguel Angel Garcia-Hernandez as a hardworking father, husband, neighbor, and colleague. Today, we stand in solidarity with the Mexican community as we grieve this loss together, and we hold on to the hope that his memory will strengthen our resolve to bring an end to the epidemic of gun violence in our country.

Mr. Speaker, I am profoundly saddened by the heartbreaking loss of Norlan Guzman-Fuentes, whose life was tragically taken in the recent attack at the Dallas ICE facility. His death is a sobering reminder of the human toll that violence leaves behind and the fragility of life when communities are confronted with such senseless acts.

At a time like this, my deepest condolences go out to Mr. Guzman- Fuentes's wife, Berenice Prieto, loved ones, and all who knew him. Their grief is immeasurable, and they deserve the comfort, compassion, and solidarity of their community as they endure this painful loss. My prayers are with them, and I hope they find strength in the love and memories they shared with Norlan.

As a community, we must stand together to reject violence and embrace peace and humanity. Every life lost diminishes us all, and we honor Norlan's memory by recommitting ourselves to building a safer, more compassionate future where gun violence must end. May his family be surrounded by support and healing in the difficult days ahead.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Leadership and Staff of JPS Health Network.

On the occasion of the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Psychiatric Emergency Center, I extend my deepest congratulations and recognition on behalf of the people of the 33rd Congressional District.

This remarkable facility represents more than bricks and mortar--it is a testament to vision, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to meeting one of our community's most urgent needs. By tripling capacity and providing 24/7 specialized behavioral health services for both adults and adolescents, JPS is not only expanding access to care but also affirming the dignity, safety, and hope that every individual deserves.

As Tarrant County's only psychiatric emergency center--and one of the busiest in the Nation--the opening of this center is a milestone in advancing compassionate, high-quality care. It reflects the dedication of the JPS leadership team, the skill and perseverance of the staff, and the broad collaboration that made this achievement possible.

I commend them for their service to our community, and I look forward to the positive impact this facility will have on countless patients, families, and first responders in the years to come.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Robert ``Bob'' LeGrand, a pioneering figure in Texas basketball who passed away on July 19.

From 1976 to 1987, Coach LeGrand, also known as ``Snake,'' led the UTA men's basketball team, guiding them to their first 20-win season and a historic NIT berth in 1981.

Snake was known for his energy, his drive, his showmanship, and his humor. His legacy goes far beyond the wins. He helped the University of Texas-Arlington Movin' Mavs wheelchair basketball program start, and he was also very active in the Fort Worth chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi. Coach LeGrand, or Snake, as everybody affectionately called him, was someone everyone loved.

Madam Speaker, you would see him in downtown Fort Worth, and you would see him in Arlington holding court with his sense of humor. Regardless of your background, Snake was someone whom you embraced. He is going to be missed. He was figuratively and literally speaking a towering figure in our community. He will be greatly missed.

I send my condolences to his wife, Gloria, his children, and his grandchildren.

Mr. Speaker, yes, the resolution was voted down by Republicans last night, so let's speak the truth because there are two Americas right now.

In their America, billionaires can buy silence, sweep crimes under the rug, and count on friends in high places to protect them. In our America, Mr. Speaker, if you break the law, you are held accountable.

In their America, wealth and power buy secrecy. In our America, justice demands sunlight and truth.

In their America, underage girls are treated like disposable property by predators who believe they will never face consequences. In our America, victims deserve justice, and the predators should face the full weight of the law.

Time and time again, this administration has chosen them--the billionaires, the elite, the people who think children are theirs to exploit--over us, the American people.

Time and time again, they have looked into the cameras and promised the American people: We will release the Epstein files.

We heard it over and over again: We will tell you the truth.

When the moment of truth comes, they slam the door shut. Why? It is because their loyalty is not to justice. It is about protecting the rich, the famous, and the powerful, no matter how monstrous their crimes are.

Meanwhile, Republicans in this Chamber are working overtime to gut healthcare for 17 million Americans, to rip food off families' tables, and to kill good-paying jobs in their so-called big, ugly bill.

When it comes to exposing the powerful predators who preyed on underage girls, suddenly, they have nothing to say. That is because they think there is one set of rules for billionaires and another for the rest of us. They think the American people will forget, that we will stop asking questions, and that we will let them keep secrets.

Let me be crystal clear: This is not about partisanship. This is about people. It is our America. No one, no matter how rich, famous, or well-connected, is above the law.

Mr. Speaker, in our America, no one is beyond accountability. We will not forget. We will not look away. We will not stop demanding the truth.

We demand the immediate release of the Epstein files--no more games, no more lies, and no more protection for predators hiding behind the rich and powerful.

Mr. Speaker, I honor the Army & Air Force Exchange Service, the Department of Defense's largest retailer, as the organization reaches a tremendous milestone, 130 years of serving the military community.

Since July 25, 1895, the Exchange has lived out its motto of ``We Go Where You Go,'' providing the best tastes of home to Soldiers, Airmen and Guardians around the world. The Exchange, also known as the PX or BX, is a thriving tax-free benefit that strengthens our nation's military lethality. The Exchange serves those who serve with department stores, restaurants, malls, wellness services, combat uniforms at cost, school meals for military children overseas, a robust presence at

ShopMyExchange.com, a leading credit option and more.

At 130, the Exchange, now based in Dallas, Texas, is among the oldest U.S. retailers in America--and remains a vital part of military readiness. 100 percent of Exchange earnings support critical Quality- of-Life programs. In the last 10 years, the Exchange delivered $15 billion in value to the military community.

Congratulations to the Exchange on 130 years of serving those who serve. Here's to ``going where you go'' for many more years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the amazing life of Sallye Ruth Moore, a trailblazer in education, a fierce advocate for equity, a beloved daughter of Grand Prairie, and a pillar of the community in Dalworth on San Antonio Street.

Ms. Moore passed away this year at 91. She leaves behind a major legacy of education in the north Texas community.

For over four decades, she devoted her life to uplifting students and breaking barriers, becoming the associate superintendent in the Grand Prairie ISD. Her journey began as a teacher, counselor, and principal, where she received numerous accolades for her excellence in the classroom and for shaping and forming students for generations.

Ms. Moore's leadership wasn't just about academics. It was about dignity, discipline, and love. She was just an amazing person. A school was named after her, Sallye Moore Elementary, in the Dalworth community in Grand Prairie in 2001. Her legacy will live on for a very long time. She leaves behind a son, Greg.

If she looks familiar, it is because she was the last remaining sibling out of the four Johnson kids. Eddie Bernice Johnson, our former colleague, was her sister.

We remember Ms. Moore today as a servant leader, a giant in Texas education, and a beacon of hope. May her memory be a blessing, and may we all strive to follow her excellent example.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the Army & Air Force Exchange Service, the Department of Defense's largest retailer, as it marks its 130th year of serving our military community with distinction.

Since its founding in 1895, the Exchange has brought a piece of home to Soldiers, Airmen, and Guardians around the world, staying true to its motto: ``We Go Where You Go.'' From providing uniforms and meals to managing stores, wellness services, and online retail, the Exchange has stood as a pillar of support for those who serve.

Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, the Exchange continues to reinvest in military families--returning $15 billion in value to the community over the last decade alone.

As we reflect on its 130-year legacy, we celebrate not only its longevity but the critical role it plays in supporting readiness, morale, and quality of life.

I congratulate the Exchange. Here's to many more years of dedicated service.