[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 46 (Wednesday, March 23, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E378]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       RECOGNIZING THE 40TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE LATIN EXPRESS BAND

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                          HON. MARC A. VEASEY

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 23, 2016

  Mr. VEASEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the 40th Anniversary of 
The Latin Express Band. The Latin Express Band has serenaded Dallas-
Fort Worth residents for four decades and counting and given back to 
the community in a variety of ways. Mr. Carlos Saenz, a graduate of 
Fort Worth's North Side High School, founded The Latin Express Band in 
1976 after fundraising for a school trip. After receiving support and 
recognition from his classmates, Mr. Saenz added his younger brother, 
Leo Saenz, to join as drummer and vocalist.
  Since their formation, the Latin Express Band has played at music 
venues throughout the DFW Metroplex and the United States, even playing 
in the nation's capital. In January 2001, they were invited to perform 
during the Presidential Inaugural Ball for President George W. Bush.
  The Latin Express Band has received several accolades for their 
musical contributions throughout the years. Dating back to 1998, the 
Fort Worth Star-Telegram presented the band with its first award, the 
``Best Tejano Band.'' They would go on to receive additional awards 
from Fort Worth Weekly, Hispanic Council of Tarrant County, and the 
Dallas Morning News. The Latin Express Band was inducted into the 
Tejano Roots Hall of Fame in 2008.
  Additionally, the Latin Express Band supports various charitable 
groups and makes significant contributions to local organizations such 
as the Tarrant Area Food Bank. The Latin Express Band has inspired 
future generations of local musicians by supporting music education for 
children, youth and adults throughout the Metroplex.
  On March 31, 2016, the band will perform for the first time at Fort 
Worth's historic Casa Manana Theatre. Proceeds from the concert will 
support music education programs in the Fort Worth Independent School 
District. The concert takes place on the birthday of the legendary 
Latino civil rights leader, Cesar Chavez. The band will play in honor 
of Chavez, an activist who continuously fought to gain equal rights for 
all minorities.
  The Saenz brothers are a staple in the Fort Worth community, both 
through sharing their musical talents and service to the Metroplex.

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