[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 138 (Monday, September 30, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1854]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                TRIBUTE TO OUTGOING MEMBERS OF CONGRESS

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. SHEILA JACKSON-LEE

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Saturday, September 28, 1996

  Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I want to take time to offer 
my own thoughts and feelings about the Democratic members of the Texas 
delegation who are leaving this year--E Kika de la Garza, John Bryant, 
and Ronald D. Coleman. We have worked together on issues that have 
affected our great State of Texas and I want to express my continuing 
gratitude to them for their service in congress.
  The 15th Congressional District in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas has 
had the able leadership of Congressman de la Garza for 12 terms. He has 
been chairman of the House Agriculture Committee for 14 years, longer 
than anyone else. During his distinguished service he has supervised 
three major farm bills in 1981, 1985, and 1990. He led the 
reorganization of the USDA, overhauled the Federal Crop Insurance 
Program and helped to make sure NAFTA phase out tariffs on fruits and 
vegetables. His leadership will be missed and I wish he and his family 
only the best for the future.
  John Bryant's seven terms in representing the 5th Congressional 
District in Dallas has been remarkable. His commitment to children and 
young people is reflected in his work on the Children's Television Act 
and the Children of Substance Abusers Act. He has consistently spoken 
out for lobby reform and his tireless work on immigration issues will 
not be soon forgotten. His strong voice for Texans will continue to 
echo through the halls of Congress.
  Ronald Coleman's seven terms in representing the 16th Congressional 
District have been marked by his tireless efforts on the National 
Security Committee and the Appropriations Military Construction 
Subcommittee. His support of NAFTA and the military at Fort Bliss must 
be commended. He has truly protected our border with Mexico and his 
presence here in Washington will be missed.
  I only hope that the distinguished careers of these outstanding 
gentlemen will continue in the same vain as they have served the people 
of Texas. My best of continuing good luck to all in whatever endeavors 
they may choose.

                          ____________________