[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 102 (Friday, July 20, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1385]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 BROWNSVILLE TEXAS IS ALL AMERICAN CITY

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. SOLOMON P. ORTIZ

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 19, 2001

  Mr. ORTIZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise to share my pride today in the 
beautiful South Texas city of Brownsville which was chosen by the 
National Civic League and Allstate Insurance Company as an ``All 
American City.'' Brownsville was one of 10 municipalities named All 
American Cities.
  This is a recognition for civic excellence honoring communities where 
citizens, government, businesses, non-profits and others demonstrate 
successful partnerships to resolve critical challenges before the 
community. Brownsville is a great example of this dynamic.
  Brownsville's unique location ``On the Border by the Sea,'' with its 
multi-cultural, historical and natural resources, is a good look at 
what America will be, and should be, over the next decades. It is a 
friendly city, populated by smart, visionary people which borders both 
the Gulf of Mexico and Mexico itself.
  Brownsville's rich history includes: Karankawa Indians, Spanish 
explorers, vaqueros (Mexican cowboys), ranchers, soldiers, prospectors 
and present day captains of business and industry. The City of 
Brownsville was incorporated in 1853, taking its name from Fort Brown 
Post Commander Major Jacob Brown.
  But of all the natural resources, easily the most valuable, most 
often-cited natural treasure is the people of Brownsville themselves. 
The nicest people I know live in the Rio Grande Valley. The life is 
easy, but the work is hard. So often, the border area is seen by both 
the United States and Mexico as a separate region, a place unto itself.
  But the people there find ways to deal with the challenges that face 
them . . . the challenge of finding the water the community needs, 
keeping up with the rapidly-growing population, and supporting 
infrastructure for the international trade that flows across the U.S.-
Mexico border.
  This bi-cultural city, which is big, but not too big, is a family 
oriented place of beauty. The unique plants and wildlife, resacas, 
proximity to the beach and to the neighboring country of Mexico, all 
bring tourists to this area of the country in droves.
  This leading border city whose people come together when the mission 
or purpose calls is most deserving of this award. All the people who 
participated in the award process are to be commended.
  I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the community of 
Brownsville on this outstanding achievement.

                          ____________________