Mayra Flores

Madam Speaker, today, I rise to honor Texas State Senator Eddie Lucio, Jr. for his 36 years of service to the residents of South Texas, 32 of which have been spent in the Texas State Senate.

Senator Lucio was born in Brownsville, Texas, and graduated from Pan American University. His public service career began in 1971 when he was elected Cameron County Treasurer at just 24 years old. For the next 15 years, Senator Lucio served in the local county government before being elected to the Texas House of Representatives in 1986 and then to the Texas State Senate in 1990.

While serving in the Texas State Senate, Senator Lucio was a champion for education, including the creation of South Texas College, the University of Texas at Brownsville, and the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. In addition, he spearheaded efforts for the creation of the University of Texas RGV School of Medicine.

Not only did he make significant advancements in establishing these colleges, but he also improved teachers' retirement system and expanded universal breakfast and lunch plans for students.

As a devout Catholic, Senator Lucio is affiliated with organizations like the Knights of Columbus and Catholic Legislators Network and has been unapologetic about his convictions. Throughout his time in the Texas State Senate, Senator Lucio remained steadfast to his values, even when this meant not being popular within his own party.

Senator Lucio has been married to his wife, Minnie Lucio, for 54 years and is the father of 2 children, Lynda Lucio-Cisneros, a school counselor, and Eddie Lucio IV, a member of the Texas House of Representatives.

For this, and for his great mentorship, I am truly grateful for Senator Lucio's service and know that the RGV region and the State of Texas, are forever better because of his dedication and service.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mrs. Gloria Moreno of Cameron Park, Brownsville, Texas on her amazing work as the community leader of Cameron Park.

Mrs. Moreno currently serves as the community leader of Cameron Park, Brownsville. For the past 45 years, Mrs. Moreno has served her colonia by lobbying her local and state officials for the needs of her community. Her work as a community leader has brought many needed utilities to her neighborhood such as the paving of the streets and the installment of running water and sewer lines. Mrs. Moreno is the prime example of a community leader who is focused on helping her community grow.

Mrs. Moreno has served Cameron Park faithfully by being a voice for her fellow residents and advocating for the needs of Cameron Park and beyond. Her commitment to her home and her community deserves honor, praise, and gratitude. It is only fitting that Mrs. Moreno celebrates amongst her friends and family as her impact will be felt by generations to come.

Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Mrs. Moreno for her accomplishments.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Alfredo and Roxanna Trevino, owners of Nana's Taqueria in Weslaco, Texas. Originally from Nuevo Progresso, Mexico, Alfredo and Roxanna immigrated to the United States and opened Nana's Taqueria in January 2010.

Since then, Nana's has become a staple in the Rio Grande Valley, serving thousands of hungry customers over the last twelve years. Roxanna, a breast cancer survivor, has continually served as a source of inspiration for all of us in South Texas as the embodiment of the Hispanic values of God, family, and hard work.

The generosity and hospitality shown by the Trevino family are second to none, and it is an honor to represent them in Congress. Their family is living proof that the American Dream is alive and well, and I congratulate them for their incredible work in the Rio Grande Valley.

I am grateful to have the opportunity to recognize this incredible family and restaurant.