Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize President Jaehyung Kim of the Dallas Taekwondo Association, a dedicated leader whose work has advanced both sport and community across North Texas and beyond.

Through his leadership at White Tiger Taekwondo and the Dallas Taekwondo Association, Mr. Kim has elevated the practice of Taekwondo while instilling discipline, pride, and cultural identity in generations of students. His efforts have created a community rooted in respect and unity.

Mr. Kim's passion for youth development and multicultural outreach has helped foster deeper understanding across communities, and his role in bringing the 23rd Annual Korean American National Sports Festival to North Texas underscores his commitment to cultural celebration and civic engagement.

We honor Mr. Kim for his service, his vision, and the inclusive spirit he brings to our region.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the remarkable life of Mr. Grayson ``Rocky'' Cocharo, a centenarian whose strength, humility, and quiet heroism have inspired generations.

Born in 1924 in Pueblo, Colorado, Mr. Cocharo's early life was marked by resilience, having lost both parents and been raised by his grandmother. At the age of 18, he answered the call to serve in World War II, becoming a navigator with the elite ``Carpetbaggers'' operation. Flying covert missions behind enemy lines, his bravery remained unspoken for decades, yet left a lasting legacy.

Following his service, Mr. Cocharo built a life of purpose and devotion--marrying his beloved Beatrice and working for over 40 years in aeronautical engineering. Known for his craftsmanship and intellect, he brought joy to others through hobbies like restoring antique toys and refinishing furniture.

He is celebrated not only for his remarkable longevity but for a lifetime defined by service, love, and community. His family and all who know him are deeply enriched by his legacy.

Happy 101st Birthday, Mr. Cocharo. I thank him for his service, and thank him for the life he has lived in quiet strength.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Mr. Jounghun Bang, Vice President of the Dallas Taekwondo Association, whose leadership and mentorship have left a lasting mark on youth and families throughout North Texas.

Through his commitment to training the next generation of athletes, Mr. Bang has fostered excellence on and off the mat. His students' success in national competitions reflects not only technical mastery but the values of perseverance and discipline that he instills.

Mr. Bang's contributions extend beyond the dojang. His support for the 23rd Annual Korean American National Sports Festival exemplifies his broader mission to highlight cultural pride and build community.

For his tireless dedication to sport, culture, and the development of young people, we extend our heartfelt thanks and congratulations.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize Mr. MyoungSub Choi for his exceptional efforts to preserve and share cultural heritage through the practice of Taekwondo.

Mr. Choi understands that Taekwondo is more than a martial art--it is a means of storytelling, cultural connection, and youth empowerment. Through his leadership and mentorship, he has inspired students across North Texas to embrace both the physical and philosophical dimensions of the sport.

By nurturing discipline and pride within a diverse community, Mr. Choi has built a lasting legacy. His work during the 23rd Annual Korean American National Sports Festival is a testament to his enduring commitment to cultural celebration and civic unity.

We commend Mr. Choi for using sport as a bridge across generations and communities.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Mr. Sangho Ko, Vice President of the Dallas Taekwondo Association, for his steadfast dedication to Taekwondo as a vehicle for cultural diplomacy and community empowerment.

Mr. Ko has long championed Taekwondo not only as an athletic discipline but as a cultural bridge that fosters mutual understanding and global citizenship. His work has nurtured countless students who carry with them the values of humility, cooperation, and perseverance.

His leadership in the 23rd Annual Korean American National Sports Festival helped showcase the richness of Korean culture and the unifying power of sport.

We thank Mr. Ko for his vision, his commitment to excellence, and his role in bringing communities together through shared purpose.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the life and legacy of Alma Allen, a pillar of our Fort Worth community and a woman whose presence touched the lives of so many.

Alma was born on December 5, 1932, in Fort Worth, Texas, to Leroy Tucker and Luvane Edwards. After graduating from I.M. Terrell High School in 1949, Alma began her career as an interior decorator, using her eye for design and creativity to bring warmth and beauty into the homes of others. Later in life, she turned her attention toward advocacy, becoming a passionate activist and respected historian of the Stop Six neighborhood in Fort Worth--a role in which she preserved and uplifted the stories of our community.

Throughout her life, Alma enjoyed a wide range of interests that reflected her creativity and love for simple joys. She found fulfillment in sewing, cooking, working in her garden, and relaxing with adult coloring books. In quieter moments, she looked forward to her favorite television programs, especially westerns, soap operas, and episodes of Judge Judy, which never failed to bring a smile to her face.

Her family remembers her not only for her many talents but for her deep well of love. She was a devoted mother and grandmother, affectionately known to those closest to her by many names, but most lovingly as ``Ma'Maw.''

Alma was preceded in death by her parents; her daughter, Rosaline Dory; her son, Zachary; and her sisters, Doris and Vera. She is survived by her children: Regina, Raymond, Megal, and Jessica, her sister Barbara, and a large extended family of grandchildren and great- grandchildren who carry forward her legacy.

While our community mourns the loss of this extraordinary woman, we should also take this moment to celebrate a life defined by compassion, strength, and service. She will not be forgotten.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Christian Gbaranen Birabil, a pillar of our Dallas-Fort Worth community. Born on March 22, 1955, in the Gokana town of Barako, Rivers State, Nigeria, Christian's life exemplified the very essence of the American dream.

Christian's lifelong passion for knowledge and discovery guided him from his boyhood dreams in Nigeria to becoming a pioneering Black neuroscientist at the UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. His work advanced biomedical research, leaving a lasting impact that continues to resonate within the scientific community. Through his professional accomplishments, Christian broke barriers and paved the way for future generations of scientists.

Beyond his scientific work, Christian was deeply involved in civic engagement and community activism. He served diligently as a valued staffer in my office, demonstrating exceptional service, integrity, and compassion. I remain grateful for his wisdom, loyalty, and the positivity he brought to our team.

Christian's family remember him as someone who lived life to the fullest, enriching those around him with humor, wisdom, and curiosity. Whether pursuing his career, playing tennis, cooking, or tending to his garden, Christian inspired others to embrace life.

A devoted family man, Christian's legacy of love and resilience endures through his daughter, Hon. Lorraine Burata Birabil, his son-in- law Joseph Amyson, and his grandchildren, Natalia Iyabo Kilsi and Nathaniel Kiele Olawale Birabil-Amusan. He also leaves behind siblings Mary, Barine, Nduki, and Bariep, as well as countless friends who became family. Christian was preceded in death by his parents, Nathaniel and Elinah, and his brother, Mene Birabil.

As we honor Christian's memory, let us all strive to embody the values he held close and continue his legacy by uplifting and enriching our communities. Christian's life should serve as an inspiration to us all who want to leave our communities a better place than we found them. May he rest in peace.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the extraordinary life and legacy of a true Texas trailblazer, Mrs. Sallye Ruth Moore--a pioneering educator, a fierce advocate for equity, and a beloved pillar of the Grand Prairie community. Mrs. Moore passed away in 2025 at the age of 91, leaving behind a profound legacy that will continue to inspire generations.

Over the course of more than four decades, Mrs. Moore dedicated her life to uplifting children and advancing educational excellence. She made history as the first African American to serve as Associate Superintendent of the Grand Prairie Independent School District-- shattering glass ceilings and opening doors for so many who followed in her footsteps.

Before her tenure in district leadership, Mrs. Moore served as a devoted teacher at Dalworth High School and Grand Prairie High School, later rising through the ranks as a counselor, instructional leader, and principal of Dalworth Elementary School. She was widely respected for her vision, discipline, and her deep love for students. As Assistant Superintendent of Instruction and later as Associate Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction, she led with clarity and compassion--setting high standards and helping multiple GPISD campuses earn the coveted ``Exemplary'' status under the Texas Accountability system.

But Mrs. Moore's contributions extended far beyond the classroom. She was a champion for justice and fairness--a tireless advocate who worked throughout Grand Prairie to ensure equal opportunity for all. She was honored with countless awards throughout her life, but remained grounded in grace, humility, and her enduring belief in the power of education. In 2001, her impact was forever immortalized when a school was named in her honor: Sallye Moore Elementary. Today, that name is not only etched on a building, but etched in the hearts of the many students, educators, and neighbors whose lives she forever changed.

Mrs. Moore is survived by a loving community that will carry forward her legacy. Congress joins me in remembering Sallye Ruth Moore--a giant in Texas education, a servant leader, and a beacon of hope and excellence. May her memory be a blessing, and may her legacy continue to inspire us all.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposition to the so-called SAVE Act.

This bill, coupled with the President's executive order on elections, is a crazy, disgusting, thinly veiled attempt at disenfranchising legal citizens from voting.

It claims to make it illegal for noncitizens to vote, which we already know is not a problem, but this bill would also disenfranchise millions of Americans who don't even have a passport. Millions of Americans do not have a passport.

It also hurts people who were born in rural America, people who were born during a time when births were recorded in family Bibles.

This would just really be devastating. It would also hurt women whose legal names do not match their birth names.

It would end automatic voter registration, voter registration by mail, and other reforms many States have adopted, overriding federalism and State control over elections.

This bill is part of a long-term effort by Republicans to literally make it harder to vote.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues, when this bill comes up, to vote ``no'' because it will be a disaster for America and a disaster for democracy.

Mr. Speaker, it is with the greatest admiration, respect, and heartfelt gratitude that I write to honor and celebrate the extraordinary life and accomplishments of Pearl Hunt, who reached the remarkable milestone of her 100th birthday on March 1, 2025.

Pearl Hunt is a beloved figure whose legacy of kindness, wisdom, and generosity has deeply impacted the lives of many. Over the course of her century of life, she has been a source of inspiration and guidance for her family, friends, and community. Through her unwavering commitment to supporting those around her, she has become a pillar of strength and compassion.

Throughout her life, Pearl has demonstrated an extraordinary ability to bring people together. Her warm heart and giving spirit have touched the lives of countless individuals, shaping the community and enriching the lives of all who have had the privilege of knowing her.

Pearl's legacy extends beyond her remarkable longevity. She has lived a life filled with purpose, making significant contributions to the lives of those fortunate enough to cross her path. As we celebrate this incredible milestone, we reflect on the profound impact she has had and continue to draw inspiration from her example of living a life of service, kindness, and love.

Today, as we honor Pearl Hunt on her 100th birthday, we also extend our deepest congratulations and warmest wishes. Her accomplishments and her lasting impact on those around her will never be forgotten.

On behalf of the people of Fort Worth and the U.S. House of Representatives, I express my sincere congratulations to Pearl Hunt on this monumental achievement. May she continue to experience good health, happiness, and the love of those around her for many years to come.

I thank Pearl for her enduring legacy and the many ways in which she has touched all of our lives. We are incredibly fortunate to have her as a member of our community, and we look forward to celebrating many more milestones with her.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of a true community leader in the west Dallas area, Reverend Dr. M.L. Curry.

For 44 years, Dr. Curry preached the Word of God from west Dallas and beyond North America, always living by the words of his first sermon: ``Here I Am Lord, Send Me, I'll Go.''

Throughout his years of service, he went out into our communities lifting up the lost, strengthening the faithful, and fighting for justice.

Dr. Curry was a man of deep conviction. He was a true servant, an activist, and a champion for the west Dallas community. He was one of my first friends in the west Dallas area.

He marched for the homeless and did everything he could to help make housing more secure for vulnerable families in Dallas. He was also the president of the West Dallas Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance for over 25 years, leading clergy in that area to help improve outcomes in the community.

Today, we remember a man of deep faith, deep action, and someone who was a man of love.

Dr. Curry has gone home to glory, but his legacy will live on forever. May he rest in peace.

Mr. Speaker, I honor Sharon Lavonne Harris Rischer, a beloved member of our Fort Worth community, who passed away on February 12, 2025, at the age of 70. Sharon was a dedicated daughter, mother, sister, aunt, and friend, whose impact will be felt for generations to come.

Born on October 7, 1954, in Fort Worth, Texas, Sharon was a proud graduate of the Lake Como Class of 1973, having attended both Lake Como High School and Western Hills High School. She further pursued her education at Tarrant County College before beginning a distinguished career that spanned several decades. Sharon worked with unwavering commitment at Standard Meat Company from 1979 to 1993 and then with Tarrant County MHMR from 1993 until her retirement in 2014.

Sharon's faith was an integral part of her life. She was baptized at an early age and remained a devoted member of the Lake Como Church of Christ, where she was a constant source of love and encouragement to those around her. Beyond her professional and spiritual dedication, Sharon found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She was an avid cook, enjoyed shopping, and brought warmth and laughter to family gatherings, particularly during friendly card games that brought her loved ones together.

Her life was characterized by her deep care for others, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. I would also like to extend the family's gratitude to the Advanced Heart and Lung Disease Center at Baylor Scott & White Fort Worth Campus and Dr. Salmon Gohar for their compassionate care during Sharon's final days.

Sharon Lavonne Harris Rischer was truly a pillar of our community, and her legacy of kindness, faith, and family will endure in the hearts of those she leaves behind. May she rest in peace, and may her memory continue to inspire all who knew her.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the extraordinary life of Judge L. Clifford Davis who passed away February 15 at 100 years old.

Judge Davis was a remarkable man and had been a judge. He was appointed by Governor Mark White back in the eighties to serve as a criminal justice judge.

However, what he will be known and remembered for is that he was the lawyer back in the 1950s who worked to desegregate the Mansfield Independent School District. Before Judge Davis worked on this case, Black children from Mansfield literally were bused on Trailways buses from Mansfield all the way out in the country into Fort Worth every day just so they could get an education.

Judge Davis worked with Thurgood Marshall and other lawyers to make sure that school systems like Mansfield were integrated. It was ugly. They hung effigies up of Judge Davis in the school, and the principal literally let them stay there for weeks just to make a point that they were standing against integration.

His mentorship to so many young lawyers around Tarrant County and the things that he accomplished in his life to help make Tarrant County, Fort Worth, and Mansfield a better place for all will never be forgotten.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the incredible career of Tarrant County Commissioner Roy Charles Brooks, whose decades of service have positively impacted not only his home county but also the State of Texas and the entire Nation. Commissioner Brooks has spent over 30 years working tirelessly for the people he serves, whether as a community volunteer, an elected official, or as a steadfast advocate for the most vulnerable among us.

Tarrant County, one of the fastest-growing urban counties in the United States, has seen incredible progress and innovation under Commissioner Brooks' leadership. With a population nearing 2 million, it is no small feat to address the diverse needs of such a large and growing community. But Commissioner Brooks has risen to the challenge, always putting the welfare of his constituents first.

Since taking office in 2004, Commissioner Brooks has been at the forefront of tackling healthcare disparities, working diligently to bring healthcare to those who need it most. He has advocated for the expansion of access through the Affordable Care Act, fought for healthcare for the homeless, and worked tirelessly on issues like infant mortality, obesity, and health disparities. His dedication to healthcare is not just a matter of policy--it's personal. It's about ensuring that everyone in his community has the opportunity to live a healthy, thriving life.

On the national stage, Commissioner Brooks has shown his leadership as well. As the 2017 President of the National Association of Counties (NACo), he led with a vision of serving the underserved, focusing on breaking the cycles of poverty and addressing the long-lasting impacts of childhood trauma. His initiative, ``Serving the Underserved,'' has inspired countless others to fight for policies that protect and uplift our Nation's most vulnerable communities.

Moreover, Commissioner Brooks has driven transformative programs in Tarrant County. He spearheaded the Tarrant County Ex-Offender Re-Entry Program, which provides crucial support to those re-entering society after incarceration. He launched the Nurse Family Partnership, an evidence-based program supporting first-time mothers, and has been a vocal advocate for the health and wellbeing of the homeless through the Blue Ribbon Task Force on Healthcare for the Homeless.

In all of his work, Commissioner Brooks exemplifies the qualities of integrity, compassion, and innovation. He has been a pillar of his community, not just in his role as a public servant, but as a father, husband, and leader. He is married to Dr. Jennifer Giddings Brooks, an accomplished educational consultant, and together they have raised two outstanding children--Royce, a Harvard-trained attorney and Executive Director of Annie's List, and Marion, an entertainment lawyer based in Los Angeles.

Roy's legacy is one of service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of those around him. His efforts have made Tarrant County a better place, and he leaves behind a legacy of positive change that will continue to impact the county, state, and Nation for years to come.

I want to personally thank Roy for his dedication, his tireless work, and his incredible service to the people of Tarrant County and beyond. His leadership has been a beacon of hope, and he has left an indelible mark on this country. On behalf of the people of Texas and the United States, I congratulate him on his retirement and thank him for his extraordinary career. May his next chapter be just as rewarding as the one he has just completed.

God bless, and I thank Roy Charles Brooks.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Judy McDonald for her extraordinary service to the people of Tarrant County. For nearly 28 years, Judy has dedicated herself to improving the lives of countless individuals by helping them find meaningful careers, ensuring businesses thrive, and offering unwavering support to our community. Her leadership has left an indelible mark on Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County, transforming it into a nationally recognized leader in workforce development.

Her passion, commitment, and tireless work have touched the lives of so many. No job was too small, no business too insignificant, and no individual ever beyond help. She has been a beacon of hope for those looking to build better futures, and your impact can be seen in the thriving businesses and empowered individuals across our region.

As Tyrone Taylor, Chair of the Workforce Development Board, so aptly said, ``Judy's commitment to our cause and her ability to inspire and mobilize our team has been instrumental in achieving our goals.'' Her leadership has inspired and empowered all those around her, and the legacy she has built will continue to benefit our community for generations to come.

I thank Judy for her incredible service. Her dedication has shaped the future of Tarrant County, and it is with great pride that I acknowledge and celebrate her contributions here today.