Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate a historic moment for Calallen High School.

The Calallen Wildcats baseball team captured the UIL 4A D1 State championship with a 5-3 win, ending a 17-year title drought and bringing home the program's fourth State title. Ranked number one in Texas and number two nationally, they lived out their motto: Win on the last day.

Not to be outdone, the Calallen Lady Cats softball team made history of their own, winning their third consecutive UIL 4A D1 State softball championship. This marks the first time in Coastal Bend history that both the baseball and softball titles were won by the same school in the same year.

Congratulations to the Calallen Wildcats Head Coach Steve Chapman, Lady Cats Head Coach Teresa Lentz, and to all the Calallen Wildcats and Lady Cats.

What a great year for Calallen. Congratulations.

Congratulating London Pirates Baseball Team

Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate the London Pirates baseball team, the 2025 UIL 3A D1 State champions.

With a 4-3 win, the Pirates secured their second State title in program history, capping off a dominant postseason and a 14-game winning streak.

This championship reflects the discipline and heart that defines London athletics and the unwavering support of a proud community.

Congrats to the Pirates on a remarkable season.

Congratulating Ganado Maidens

Mr. Speaker, I rise as well to honor the Ganado Maidens, our

2025 UIL 2A State champions. With a 5-4 comeback win, the Maidens closed out their season fueled by grit with a 19-game win streak.

The Maidens were down, with one out to go, when they delivered a 2-1 rally that turned the game in their favor. As one local paper put it: It took all of Ganado. It certainly did.

Congratulations to the Maidens, their coaches, their families, and the entire Ganado community on a championship that reflects the very best of Texas.

Honoring the City of Corpus Christi

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the city of Corpus Christi, officially designated as the first Coast Guard City in the State of Texas.

For over 45 years, the men and women of the Coast Guard have served our region with courage: conducting daring rescues, safeguarding our ports, training the next generation, and responding with excellence when disaster strikes.

From patrolling our waters to securing energy shipments to their recent heroic efforts responding to the floods in Kerrville, their work keeps both our region and our Nation safe. The Coast Guard in Corpus Christi conducted hundreds of search-and-rescue missions and saved countless lives.

I thank the Coast Guard crews up and down our district along the Gulf of America for their hard work and living out their commitment to faith, service, and freedom every single day. I also thank my fellow citizens of Texas' 27th District for living a life and honoring the service of these guardsmen.

Congratulations, Corpus Christi.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Ganado Maidens softball team--2025 UIL 2A State Champions.

With a final score of 5-4 over Riesel, the Maidens capped off a 33-5- 1 season marked by grit, discipline, and heart. They entered the postseason on a 19-game winning streak and held their opponents to just 9 total runs across 10 playoff games.

This championship wasn't handed to them. In the title game, they were down to their final out then delivered a two-run rally that turned the tide. That's the kind of resilience that defines Texas athletics and Texas values.

It wasn't just one team on the field--it was an entire community behind them. Coaches, families, classmates, and neighbors, each playing a role. As one local paper put it, ``lt took all of Ganado.'' And it did.

In a time when the spotlight so often falls on the wrong examples, these young women reminded us what it means to fight for something bigger than yourself. Their victory is more than a trophy. It's a testament to hard work, unity, and the enduring spirit of Texas.

I congratulate the Maidens.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the extraordinary bravery and service demonstrated in response to the devastating flooding across Central Texas.

Over the past several days, catastrophic flooding along the Guadalupe and Colorado Rivers has shaken communities across the Texas Hill Country. Lives have been lost, others are still missing, and boots remain on the ground--searching, rescuing, and doing everything possible to bring families back together.

On July 4, 2025, as the floodwaters surged near Hunt, Texas, the United States Coast Guard launched a rescue crew out of Air Station Corpus Christi at 5:30 a.m. Despite severe weather and three aborted attempts, the crew aboard an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter pushed through.

That crew--Aircraft Commander Lieutenant Ian Hopper, Co-Pilot Lieutenant Blair Ogujiofor, Flight Mechanic Petty Officer Seth Reeves, and Rescue Swimmer Petty Officer Scott Ruskan--is a team of American heroes who carried out one of the most consequential rescue operations this country has ever seen.

Petty Officer Ruskan was lowered into the flood zone and coordinated rescues for more than three hours, working with state, local, and military partners across three landing zones. In his first rescue mission, he helped save 165 lives--15 of whom were airlifted directly by the Coast Guard crew.

This mission was one part of a larger operation, powered by 54 Coast Guard personnel rotating day and night to keep rescue efforts moving across the region. Every hour, lives are being saved by men and women who step into harm's way so others can make it home. In the face of tragedy, we're reminded of what makes this country strong: selflessness, courage, and Americans willing to step into danger to protect others.

Texans are known for their resilience, but no one overcomes disaster alone. I thank every Coast Guardsman, first responder, and local official who acted swiftly and selflessly to help their neighbors.

May God strengthen those still searching, comfort those who mourn, and bless the brave men and women who ran toward the rising waters.

God bless Texas, and God bless the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, today the House advances another pillar of President Trump's America First agenda with the passage of the American Entrepreneurs First Act of 2025.

This bill ensures that taxpayer-funded SBA loans are reserved for American small businesses, not illegal aliens, certainly not children or people who are dead.

Americans are grateful to finally have a President in office who is protecting their taxpayer dollars and looking to weed out waste, fraud, and abuse. Billions of loans have been flagged for suspected fraud and ineligible applicants, including illegal aliens.

The Trump administration has instituted a policy requiring SBA loan applications to include citizenship verification provisions. It is common sense. This bill codifies these Trump-era safeguards into law so that no future administration can turn Federal relief into a global giveaway.

This is about ensuring we have the validation mechanisms in place to ensure the rule of law. It is about prioritizing Americans. It is about making sure that when a small business owner like those in Texas, or anywhere else, fills out an application, they know the system is fair and the resources are theirs to access.

With every bill codifying President Trump's EOs, we are moving closer to a government that puts America first, protects American workers, and restores American sovereignty.

Let's support this bill.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Bill Matthys--a man whose life reflects a steadfast commitment to education, public service, and community.

Raised in rural Wharton County, Mr. Matthys graduated from El Campo High School in 1965, later earning degrees from Wharton County Junior College and the University of Houston, including a BA in English and Journalism and a master's in Curriculum and Instruction. In 1967, he married Pamela, his high school sweetheart, and together they built a loving family and a legacy of service.

Following college, Mr. Matthys served on active duty in the United States Army from 1970 to 1974, including time stationed in Germany, and later in the Army Reserve until his honorable discharge as a Captain in 1981. His service to our Nation was marked by integrity and continued through his 35 years dedicated to public education in Texas. He worked as both a teacher and administrator, with 16 of those years at Cuero ISD. After retiring from education, he continued serving the community through legal work as a certified paralegal at a local firm.

His civic involvement has been just as remarkable. He has served on the boards of the Cuero Chamber of Commerce, the Cuero Lions Club, the Cuero ISD Education Foundation, and the DeWitt County Habitat for Humanity. For 17 years, he represented the people of Cuero on the City Council, including 14 years as Mayor Pro-Temp.

Mr. Speaker, Bill Matthys represents the very best of servant leadership. His life is a testimony to the impact one person can make through quiet faithfulness, love for family, and a deep-rooted commitment to community.

May God continue to bless him, his family, and all those he serves.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 150th anniversary of St. Michael's Catholic Church in Cuero, Texas--a beacon of faith, education, and community. Since 1875, St. Michael's has stood as a cornerstone for Cuero, proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ, fostering fellowship among believers, and serving as a pillar of the community.

Founded on land donated by the Cuero Land and Immigration Company, St. Michael's was established to provide local Roman

Catholics with a place of worship without the burden of traveling to Meyersville, Texas each Sunday. It began under the leadership of its first resident pastor, Rev. V.L. Manci, S.J. The church was built on a foundation of faith and dedication--values that continue to flourish today under the guidance of Father Jacob Mendoza.

Two years later, in 1877, St Michael's Catholic School opened in the church's rear building, serving nearly 110 students annually and offering an education rooted in the power of God. These two institutions have long stood as backbones of the community. Beside them, the historic bell tower--completed in 1902--also remains a cherished landmark in Cuero. Together, they all remain a lasting symbol of the strong spirit of the Cuero community.

This 150th anniversary milestone reflects the enduring faith of St. Michael's parishioners and the church's lasting impact on the Cuero community. From holding food drives to yearly festivities--this congregation shows the power and true testament of God's faithfulness.

May God continue to bless St. Michael's, its parishioners, and the entire Cuero community for generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Ganado High School Indians' football team on their incredible victory in the 2024 Texas Class 2A, Division 1 championship.

With a 30-28 win that happened in triple overtime, the Indians capped off a remarkable 15-1 season. Under the guidance of Head Coach Josh Ervin, the team showed unparalleled resilience and unity. From the first snap of the season to the thrilling final play, they demonstrated the power of teamwork and perseverance.

This championship is not just a testament to their athletic talent but to the unwavering support of the Ganado community. It is a moment that will inspire future generations to strive for excellence, both on and off the field.

I congratulate the Ganado Indians on this well-deserved championship, and may God continue to bless the players, coaches, families, and the entire community. God bless them.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Henry C. Garrett, Jr., a devoted Chief of Police, Mayor, husband, and father who passed away on December 8, 2024, at the age of 84.

Mayor Garrett dedicated over 30 years to the Corpus Christi Police Department, rising from patrolman in 1963 to Chief of Police in 1989, earning the title ``The People's Chief.'' After retiring in 1996, he continued serving his community as a three-term City Council Member and later as Mayor for two terms, from 2005 to 2009.

Above all, Mayor Garrett was a loving husband, father, and leader whose life exemplified service and a deep commitment to his community. His contributions have left a lasting impact on Corpus Christi, Texas.

Mr. Speaker, so many of America's public servants today--especially our police officers--have a tremendous responsibility of serving our constituents and to do so with grace and integrity. All who knew Henry Garrett would tell you: he exemplified what it meant to be a public servant. His was a life well lived.

I extend my heartfelt condolences to Mayor Garrett's family and all who were blessed to know him. May God bless and comfort them during this time.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 10065 to name a post office in Corpus Christi in memory of Captain Robert ``Bob'' Batterson.

Captain Batterson's life is a life of service and a testament to the very best of American character.

In 1939, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, setting sail on his life's journey of dedicated and devoted service to our Nation.

In 1941, he was stationed at Pearl Harbor and survived the attack that thrust America into World War II. That same resilience carried him to Naval Air Station Corpus Christi, where he earned his wings in 1944 and flew F6F Hellcats in defense of our Nation.

Captain Batterson's service continued long after World War II as he transitioned to the Navy Supply Corps, serving faithfully until his retirement in 1974.

Over the course of his 35-year military career, he exemplified duty and honor, but Captain Batterson didn't stop serving when he took off the uniform. For 26 years, he volunteered at the USS Lexington Museum in Corpus Christi, where he could often be found at the Pearl Harbor exhibit, sharing his firsthand accounts of the attack on Pearl Harbor and other personal stories of valor from the war with visitors from around the world. His personal stories preserved a living history, ensuring future generations understood the sacrifices made for freedom.

Captain Batterson passed away last year at the age of 102 years young, leaving behind his wife, Hilda, and an indelible legacy of service and patriotism. His dedication to his community and his country will not be forgotten.

In naming this post office in his honor, we commemorate a life of extraordinary service to our country and the Corpus Christi community. Captain Batterson's name will continue to inspire all who pass through its door, reminding us of the courage and sacrifice that define our Greatest Generation and should continue to inspire our current and future generations.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this bill to honor a true American hero. May God bless Captain Batterson's memory, his family, the city of Corpus Christi, and our beloved Nation.

Mr. Speaker, as someone who had the opportunity to know him personally, there is no one who could be more worthy of this honor.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life of Judge Richard Meyer of Calhoun County, who passed away on November 18, 2024, at the age of 74. A man of integrity, Judge Meyer's impact on his family, community, and South Texas is a testament to a life well-lived.

Judge Meyer was a proud third-generation Calhoun County resident. His early years were spent exploring the natural beauty of Lavaca Bay alongside his father, instilling in him a deep appreciation for the land and its people. A dedicated farmer and rancher, Judge Meyer was widely recognized for his success, earning accolades from the Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce in 1988 and being named Calhoun County's Man of the Year in 2015.

Yet it was his sense of duty and desire to serve his neighbors that led him to public office. In January 2019, Judge Meyer began his tenure as County Judge, bringing the same tenacity and work ethic to governance that had defined his earlier endeavors. As a champion for economic development, he worked tirelessly to ensure that Calhoun County remained a vibrant and prosperous community. His passion for building connections and supporting growth reflected his commitment to serving others.

Despite his many accomplishments, Judge Meyer's greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted husband to Jackie, his wife of 49 years, a loving father to their two children, Ty and Leslie, and a proud grandfather to nine grandchildren. His family was the heart of his life, and his love for them was evident to all who knew him.

Judge Meyer was a man of compassion, generosity, and faith. His legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched and the enduring contributions he made to his community. As we remember him, let us be inspired by his dedication, humility, and unwavering service to others.

May God bless the Meyer family and bring them comfort during this time.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend the vital work of Starlink in the recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton. With one of its key facilities in Bastrop, Texas, located in the 27th District, Starlink has made a significant impact by providing internet access to areas where traditional communication infrastructure has been severely damaged or destroyed completely. Our South Texas community is honored to play a small role in driving technological innovation that is directly benefiting Americans in times of crisis.

In response to the devastation, Starlink quickly deployed over 20,000 of its satellite kits--many of which were made in Bastrop--reconnecting families and facilitating emergency services in some of the hardest-hit areas. Starlink has extended free satellite internet service through the end of the year, ensuring that Americans maintain access to essential communications as they rebuild and support relief efforts.

In addition, this initiative exemplifies the strength of the free market in delivering rapid, lifesaving solutions. The ability of private-sector companies like SpaceX to innovate and respond to crises faster than traditional channels is a testament to the importance of entrepreneurial spirit in serving the public good. I would also like to personally thank Elon Musk for his leadership and commitment to providing this invaluable resource to disaster-stricken communities.

Mr. Speaker, may God bless the recovery efforts, the victims affected, and those tirelessly working to provide them with relief and support.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Calallen Baptist Church in Corpus Christi, Texas, as it celebrates 150 years of faithful service to its community. This incredible milestone stands as a testament to the church's enduring commitment to faith, fellowship, and ministry, pointing generations of men and women toward the love of Jesus Christ.

Founded on July 4, 1874, Calallen Baptist Church was established by a group of eleven dedicated believers on a donated parcel of land in Nuecestown. From the very beginning, it became a pillar of the community--a place where neighbors gathered to hear the Gospel and encourage each other in the faith.

For a century and a half, the church has faithfully served Corpus Christi, persevering through adversity and disaster. After the devastation caused by Hurricane Celia, which left countless homes destroyed and damaged the church itself, Calallen Baptist continued to hold weekly services and became a refuge for those displaced by the storm. This is just one example of the church's dedication to serving its community even in the most trying of times.

Calallen Baptist Church stands out with their commitment to ministry through service to the community. Whether through outreach programs, compassionate ministries, or disaster relief, the church has actively sought to care for its neighbors and to be a testimony for the Lord's goodness in trial. In recent years, they have expanded their facilities and ministries to include fellowships, mission trips, and a grief recovery group--furthering their outreach to those in need of spiritual and emotional support.

This anniversary is truly a testament to God's sustaining grace and mercy. Paul's letter to the Philippians made note of how the Lord ``shall supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus'' (Philippians 4:19). Through every trial victory in Christ, it is this principle that defines the story of Calallen Baptist.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Calallen Baptist Church on 150 years of remarkable ministry and service. May God continue to bless and sustain them as they press forward in His work, sharing the Good News of Jesus and serving the community for many years to come.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the Honorable Geanie W. Morrison, whose extraordinary 26-year career of public service to the Crossroads region and the state of Texas is coming to a close. Throughout her 13-term career in the Texas Legislature, Representative Morrison has exemplified dedication, leadership, and a tireless commitment to improving the lives of all Texans.

Since her election in 1999, Representative Morrison has represented Texas' 30th District in the Texas House of Representatives which today includes DeWitt, Goliad, Jackson, Lavaca, Matagorda, Victoria counties. Over the course of her tenure, she has become a trusted leader in the Capitol and a steadfast advocate for her constituents.

Representative Morrison's legislative record is filled with notable achievements, but one of her most profound and life-saving contributions is her authorship of the country's first Safe Haven ``Baby Moses'' law, passed in 1999. This legislation provides a compassionate and responsible alternative for desperate mothers who may otherwise feel they have no choice but to abandon their newborns. Through the Safe Haven law, mothers are given the option to safely and legally surrender their babies at designated locations, such as hospitals or fire stations, without fear of prosecution.

This law has had an immeasurable impact on saving lives. Since its passage, hundreds of newborns across Texas have been safely surrendered, and all 50 states have since implemented similar measures. Thanks to Representative Morrison's initiative, countless lives have been saved and will continue to be.

Her work in higher education has been impactful to Texas as well. As Chair of the House Committee on Higher Education, she played a pivotal role in the expansion of the University of Houston-Victoria into a four-year institution, significantly increasing access to higher education for students in the region. Her efforts have been recognized by many, including the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, which awarded her the Leadership Star Award. She has also been named Legislator of the Year by the Texas Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators and honored with the Texas Community College Teachers Association Legislator of the Year Award.

Beyond her legislative work, Representative Morrison has always been deeply committed to community service. Her 17-year involvement with the Junior League of Victoria allowed her to lead programs like ``Making the Grade'' and ``Great Expectations,'' where she worked with young people to inspire academic success and provide support for pregnant teens in completing their education. Her leadership in these initiatives has touched countless lives and opened doors of opportunity for those who need it most.

Representative Morrison's service extended beyond her district and into key leadership positions at the state level. Prior to running for office, she served as Executive Director of the Governor's Commission for Women under Governor George W. Bush, and she was appointed to the Texas Commission for Volunteerism and Community Service and the Texas Juvenile Probation Commission.

Her long-standing dedication to public service has earned her numerous awards, including the Boy Scouts of America South Texas Council's Distinguished Citizen Award, the Victoria Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Citizen of the Year Award, and recognition as one of South Texas' Women of the Year. These accolades are a testament to her unwavering commitment to her constituents and her deep-rooted belief in the importance of community involvement.

As Representative Morrison embarks on this new chapter of her life, it is my honor to recognize her remarkable career and thank her for her faithful service to Texas. We are better off having had someone of Geanie's caliber involved in public service. May God bless her and her family in the days and years ahead.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commend the exceptional bravery, skill, and determination of the United States Coast Guard units stationed along the Gulf Coast. These dedicated men and women came together in a large-scale Search and Rescue operation, resulting in the safe recovery of two scuba divers who had been separated from their dive vessel and lost at sea for nearly two days.

On the morning of July 24th, the Sector Corpus Christi Command Center received a distress call reporting two divers missing more than 30 miles offshore from Matagorda Texas and the Coast Guard immediately mobilized multiple assets.

Leading this Search and Rescue effort was Lieutenant Commander Nina McDonald whose knowledge and experience helped coordinate the safe return of the divers. During the search, the Coast Guard faced severe weather and a vast search area. After hours without any luck, the aircrew of Coast Guard 2306 took over the search efforts. Despite daunting conditions, including reduced visibility, overcast skies, and hazardous flying through numerous cloud layers, this crew pressed on.

After hours in the air, Petty Officer Nathan Cyrus, serving as a visual observer, spotted a faint flash of light on the water and the aircrew quickly maneuvered to the location where Petty Officer James Welzig, the dropmaster, prepared the aircraft for an aerial delivery of rescue equipment. Under the command of Lieutenant Brian Holcombe and Lieutenant Junior Grade Jake Pritchett, the aircrew helped guide the Coast Guard Cutter to the scene where the crew successfully located and rescued the two divers, who had endured 38 harrowing hours at sea.

This remarkable rescue operation is a testament to the unparalleled excellence of our Coast Guard personnel. Their efforts in saving these lives reflect the highest standards of service and sacrifice.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring these courageous men and women of the United States Coast Guard. Their actions over those intense 38 hours exemplify the very best of our Nation's values, and we owe them our deepest gratitude.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor George Hyak, a native of Victoria, Texas, who passed away on May 4, at the age of 104 years.

George's 104 years marked a life well lived. He was a wonderful man whose life truly emulated the values of faith, family, and freedom that built the American miracle.

Growing up in the family grocery store business, George learned early the value of hard work and the importance of family. These values guided him throughout his long life.

When his country called, George answered the call without hesitation and served in some of the most significant battles of World War II, including D-Day, the Battle of the Bulge, and the Ardennes campaign.

It is because of the bravery of men like George that we enjoy the freedoms we do today.

After returning home from the war, George continued his journey and became an entrepreneur, where his work ethic and dedication helped him to grow a successful local business.

He was always ready to give back to the community and even served as a volunteer firefighter, but it was at home where George truly thrived and where he built his beautiful family with his devoted wife of 75 years. He loved nothing more than spending time with his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and even great-great-grandchildren.

Quite the storyteller, those closest to him tell of him captivating family and friends with tales of those significant battle campaigns that he was in.

Faith was the key central focus to George's life. Oftentimes George's powerful voice could be heard singing hymns loudly in worship, praising the Lord with all his heart. This faith guided him, giving him strength and comfort his whole life.

As we look back on George's life, we are reminded of the profound impact one person can have on a family, a community, and a nation. George's life is a testament to service, love, and faith, and he lived fully, loved deeply, and served honorably.

As we honor him today, let's remember the legacy that he left and strive to live with the same courage, dedication, and love that he showed every day of his 104 years.

honoring officer kyle hicks

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Officer Kyle Hicks of the Corpus Christi Police Department who tragically died in the line of duty on April 24, 2024.

Kyle was a dedicated husband, father, and public servant to all who knew him. He was known for his selflessness, steadfast integrity, and tireless commitment to his community.

Kyle was 12 years old when he became a Texan. He graduated from Grace Preparatory Academy in Arlington, marking the start of a life devoted to public service and dedication to others.

Family was central to Kyle's life. In his early years as an employee of Chick-fil-A, he met his future wife, Cassie, whom he married in Arlington, and they soon became proud parents of four.

It didn't take long for Kyle and Cassie to pursue public service as a family. Even after being promoted to general manager at Chick-fil-A, Kyle decided to follow his dream to serve and protect his community, and in January of 2023, he graduated from the police academy to become an officer with the Corpus Christi Police Department.

As an officer, Kyle Hicks was beloved by his colleagues. He was known for his quiet strength, his unique sense of humor, and his unwavering integrity.

Throughout his career as a police officer, Kyle devoted himself entirely to the safety and well-being of our families and our community, serving to make Corpus Christi a better and safer place for everyone.

As we grieve his loss, we take comfort in knowing that he lived a life of profound purpose. His sacrifice is a testament to the courage and dedication of our law enforcement officers, inspiring all of us to honor his memory through our commitment to service.

John 15:13 says this: Greater love has no man than to lay down his life for his friends.

It is humbling to think that we get to enjoy the blessings of liberty because of people like Kyle who have committed their life to service.

May God bring comfort to his loved ones and grant them His peace which surpasses all understanding during this very difficult time. Our prayers are with them.