[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 41 (Thursday, March 7, 2024)]
[House]
[Page H1006]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  HONORING THE LIFE OF JOSE SAMANIEGO

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from 
Arizona (Mr. Ciscomani) for 5 minutes.
  Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Jose 
Samaniego, who passed away in 2017, far too early at the age of 33.
  Jose was a firefighter for the Golden Ranch Fire District and will be 
remembered for his passion for community service.
  Jose Samaniego also served on the board of the North Tucson 
Firefighters Association, Local 3832, working to better the community 
through fundraisers for local foster families.
  Jose began his career as a wildland firefighter and member of the 
Avra Valley Fire District before going to Raytheon Missile Systems.
  In 2012, Jose went to work for Golden Ranch, where he became a member 
of the special operations team.
  Beyond his firefighter achievements, Jose was a devoted husband to 
Serena and a loving father to four children: Andres, Alysha, Adam, and 
Annabella, who I had the pleasure of meeting recently and was impressed 
with their drive and their dedication. They have bright futures ahead 
of them, knowing that they proudly carry the legacy of their dad.
  In honor of Jose, the North Tucson Firefighters Association started 
the annual Jose Samaniego Memorial Archery Shoot and BBQ Challenge. I 
was honored to attend this event this past Saturday on March 2 and had 
the opportunity to meet his entire family and experience firsthand why 
the event is a fitting tribute to the passion that Jose had for his 
community and also his fire family, as well as his love for the 
outdoors.
  Jose Samaniego remains a true hero in the hearts of the greater 
Tucson community and the residents of my district. We extend our 
gratitude for his dedicated service and are eternally thankful for his 
contributions.


                          Mi Nidito Restaurant

  Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mi Nidito and 
its owners, Jimmy and Ernie Lopez.
  Mi Nidito, the Lopez family's restaurant, has been a staple in Tucson 
for 72 years.
  Jimmy and Ernie's grandparents, Ernesto and Alicia Lopez, first 
opened the restaurant doors in 1952. Since then, the Lopez family has 
tirelessly upheld Mi Nidito's legacy for three generations.
  Arizonans and visitors from across the country and around the world 
have stood in line for hours to get a taste of their renowned chile 
rellenos and enchilada-style burritos, as well.
  Over the last seven decades, Mi Nidito has also had some notable 
guests, including then-President Bill Clinton, who visited the 
restaurant in 1999.
  As Jimmy and Ernie begin a well-deserved retirement, Laura and I want 
to thank them and the entire Lopez family for their contributions to 
our community.


                       Salpointe Girls Basketball

  Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the 
Salpointe girls' basketball team for winning the 4A State championship.
  In an exciting game, they secured victory over Gilbert's Mesquite 
High by a score of 59-49.
  This marks the Lancer's second State championship in the last three 
seasons. Their hard work and perseverance over the past season has been 
truly commendable.
  I am proud to represent such dedicated student athletes, determined 
coaches, and supportive parents.
  Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Coach Joseph Luevano and this talented 
team for a well-earned title.


                       Recognizing Michael Hyatt

  Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize retiring Border 
Patrol agent, Michael Hyatt.
  Mr. Hyatt currently serves as the agent in charge at the Brian A. 
Terry Station near Naco, Arizona.
  He will retire later this month, ending a 28-year career with Border 
Patrol.
  After joining in 1996, Michael spent the majority of his time with 
Border Patrol in Arizona, with 11 years at the Naco Station.
  His work as agent in charge has been praised by Cochise County 
residents, specifically for his tireless community outreach and strong 
relationships with ranchers.
  As Michael prepares for a well-deserved retirement, I personally 
thank him for all his hard work.

                          ____________________