[Pages H1379-H1380]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     HUGE WIN FOR TEXAS AGRICULTURE

  (Ms. De La Cruz of Texas was recognized to address the House for 5 
minutes.)
  Ms. De La CRUZ. Madam Speaker, I rise today to share a huge win for 
Texas agriculture.
  Recently, USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins joined me in south Texas to 
announce the deployment of $280 million in economic relief that I 
secured for our Texas farmers.
  Farmers and ranchers in the Rio Grande Valley have been struggling 
for way too long. Mexico's refusal to comply with the 1944 Water 
Treaty, coupled with drought conditions, has devastated south Texas 
agriculture.
  Last year, the last sugar mill in Texas closed, leaving just two 
regions with the ability to produce sugar. After hearing from south 
Texas farmers and ranchers, citrus could be next, and this economic 
relief is absolutely critical to sustaining their businesses.
  Any impact on Texas agriculture, one of the largest agricultural 
States, will affect the entire country through severe supply chain 
disruptions and higher grocery prices for American families.
  For 4 years, the Biden administration failed to hold the Mexican 
Government accountable and secure the water that Texas farmers 
desperately needed. With President Trump in office, I am now optimistic 
that we will win the war for water. Their decision to deploy the 
critical aid demonstrates the administration's commitment to 
safeguarding the backbone of our Nation's economy: agriculture.

[[Page H1380]]

  In addition to the emergency aid, the Trump administration has put 
its foot down. The State Department is holding the Mexican Government 
accountable by blocking Mexico's nontreaty request for water from the 
Colorado River. This is a major win in prioritizing our farmers and 
ranchers, and it is encouraging to have the support of President Trump 
in this fight.
  This is just the beginning of the war for water. I will continue to 
work to ensure Mexico's compliance with the treaty and deliver the 
much-needed water to south Texas.


                 Charlie Willmann Celebrates 100 Years

  Ms. De La CRUZ. Madam Speaker, today I rise to celebrate Texas U.S. 
Navy veteran Mr. Charlie Willmann's 100th birthday.
  Born on March 31, 1925, in Seguin, Texas, Mr. Willmann's roots have 
run deep in our great State of Texas, from growing up on a farm, 
graduating from Seguin High School, to attending Texas A&M to study 
agriculture education. His commitment to service took him into the U.S. 
Navy during World War II, where he not only selflessly served his 
country but also met the love of his life, Patricia.
  Following his service, Mr. Willmann finished his degree and worked 
for Sears, Roebuck before returning to his roots. In Seguin, he managed 
the family farm he grew up on and raised his family: three children, 
five grandchildren, and now five great-grandchildren.
  His dedication to work, whether raising cattle or cultivating award-
winning pecans, embodies his unwavering commitment to doing things 
right.
  Mr. Willmann's influence extends far beyond his family. He served his 
community on numerous boards, including Texas Farm Bureau and in his 
role as the county commissioner.
  I thank Mr. Willmann for all of his work in our community in this 
great country we live in. Today, we celebrate a birthday party, an 
incredible century of life. Let us congratulate Charlie on this 
wonderful milestone.
  Here is to Charlie, 100 years strong and still inspiring us all. We 
wish him a happy birthday and God bless him.

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