[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 32 (Wednesday, February 27, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E249]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                NUECES COUNTY COMMISSIONER CHUCK CAZALES

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. SOLOMON P. ORTIZ

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 27, 2008

  Mr. ORTIZ. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Nueces County, 
TX, Commissioner Chuck Cazales on winning the 2008 Walter B. Jones 
Memorial Award for Excellence in Local Government. This award 
recognizes those public officials all around the country who promote 
and protect our vital coastal resources.
  The Texas Coastal Bend is a unique area that provides our citizens 
with a sense of pride. The natural beauty and beaches in Nueces County 
contribute to the economy of our communities and offer recreational 
opportunities and tourism.
  For 6 years, Commissioner Cazales has served with distinction on the 
Nueces County Commissioners' Court. Among his priorities is to protect 
our coastal communities and resources so that future generations may 
enjoy them. Last year, I was pleased he joined me at a field hearing on 
beach erosion with the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on 
Fisheries, Wildlife and Oceans. Commissioner Cazales has always 
advocated for increased coastal zone management programs and his 
testimony at the hearing was integral to its success.
  The award, named after the late Congressman Walter B. Jones of North 
Carolina, provides the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 
with the authority to honor those dedicated to helping the Nation 
maintain healthy coastal and ocean resources and balance the needs of 
these resources with human use. I served with both Congressman Jones 
and his son, Walter Jones, and know their strong dedication to coastal 
welfare.
  This prestigious award is a testament to Commissioner Cazales's 
service to the Gulf Coast and South Texas. I am confident that he will 
continue to inspire positive change in the field of coastal management, 
and can think of no one else more deserving of this award.

                          ____________________