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[Page H3986]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
RESILIENCY OF FLORIDIANS
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from
Florida (Mr. Spano) for 5 minutes.
Mr. SPANO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the
resiliency of the people of my home State of Florida.
Floridians have long been recognized for their ability to persevere
amidst crisis and hardships. From hurricanes to flash floods, from war
efforts to pandemics, our homestead is the most resilient place in the
world, but it is the people who make it truly special.
During these difficult days, I have traveled throughout our district,
meeting unsung heroes in our communities. From first responders and
medical personnel risking their lives and health to small business
owners adjusting to continue serving their community, the dedication
and passion for others and for our community is truly inspiring.
It is during trying times that we truly get to know who we are, what
we are made of. And I can tell you this: The good people of Florida 15
stand strong.
Whether you live or work in Hillsborough, Polk, or Lake Counties, you
know how special our district and Main Streets truly are. So today, I
thought I would take just a moment to say thank you to all those who
make Florida 15 what we call it, our home.
Honoring Lakeland City Manager Tony Delgado
Mr. SPANO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Tony Delgado
for his 23 years of service to the city of Lakeland, Florida.
Mr. Delgado began his service to city residents in 1997 as a
facilities assistant director and, through hard work and dedication,
quickly climbed the ranks to become Lakeland's city manager, known as
someone who is approachable and always accessible to his colleagues,
his staff, and the city's residents.
Mr. Delgado leaves behind a legacy of accomplishments, an impact that
won't soon be forgotten. Mr. Delgado has always been known as someone
who builds bridges and brings people together. In my time of knowing
him and his team, they have been nothing but helpful and professional,
exuding the values of our district.
A loving and devoted husband to his wife, Robin, I want to wish them
both the very, very best in the next chapter of their lives.
Tony, all the best to you. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for
your hard work and your dedication. Lakeland is a better city, a better
community, because of your selfless service.
Supporting Border Security
Mr. SPANO. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to once again express my full
support of President Trump's efforts to secure our borders, restore law
and order, and complete the wall on our southwestern border.
Since I joined Congress, time and time again, Democrats in this
Chamber and their allies have sought to stop the President from
securing our borders and protecting the American people.
Even this week, Democratic leadership has continued this attack on
the President and on the American people. In multiple portions of the
bills meant to fund the government next year, Democrats have not only
prohibited funds from being used to build the wall, but they have also
sought to rescind funds already allocated for border security by
President Trump.
I have traveled to the border myself, and I will tell you this: Walls
work. And the Border Patrol officers I spoke with when I was there
agree: Walls work.
According to Customs and Border Protection, during the first 6 months
of 2020 this year, 180,000 people were apprehended or deemed
inadmissible. In 2019, last year, during the same period, this number
was almost 600,000. That is a reduction of 416,000 people, or a
whopping 70 percent.
A more secure border means safer communities across America, and as
of July 27, 256 miles of the border wall system has been completed.
As our Nation experiences social unrest from coast to coast, it is
critical that we restore law and order, to include our borders.
President Trump has pledged to continue to do just that, and I am proud
to stand with him in this effort.
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