Floor SpeechCeremonial2026-07-09

HONORING THE 175TH ANNIVERSARY OF RIO GRANDE LODGE NO. 81

Context

On 2026-07-09, Representative Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX-34) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE 175TH ANNIVERSARY OF RIO GRANDE LODGE NO. 81" in the House.

Full Text

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 112 (Thursday, July 9, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 112 (Thursday, July 9, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E662] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE 175TH ANNIVERSARY OF RIO GRANDE LODGE NO. 81 ______ HON. VICENTE GONZALEZ of texas in the house of representatives Thursday, July 9, 2026 Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 175th Anniversary of Rio Grande Lodge No. 81, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, and honor their unwavering commitment to serving the Brownsville community. Since 1851, Rio Grande Lodge No. 81 has strengthened South Texas through dedicated civic engagement and public service. By supporting youth initiatives, assisting seniors, and investing in local facilities, the Lodge has strengthened our community and improved the lives of countless families. Education has long been at the heart of the Lodge's mission. From sponsoring early literacy programs to funding scholarships, their work empowers and provides vital resources for students to finish high school and earn their bachelor's degrees. These initiatives have fostered a love of learning, greater civic responsibility, and patriotism within generations of young people. Beyond the classroom, the Lodge has worked to improve the lives of families throughout our community. Its members have helped provide dental care, medical treatment, and financial assistance, while also helping parents and grandparents by building ramps in homes to enhance safety and accessibility. Rio Grande Lodge No. 81 has also worked diligently to preserve the rich history of Brownsville and South Texas. Through its longstanding support of local museums, the Lodge has helped ensure that future generations understand the sacrifices, traditions, and stories that have shaped our region and our Nation. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the people of Texas' 34th Congressional District, I extend my deepest gratitude for the 175 years of service provided by the Rio Grande Lodge No. 81. Its outstanding contributions have inspired generations of South Texans, and I'm confident they will inspire many more. ____________________

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HONORING THE 175TH ANNIVERSARY OF RIO GRANDE LODGE NO. 81 Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 112 (Thursday, July 9, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 112 (Thursday, July 9, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E662] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE 175TH ANNIVERSARY OF RIO GRANDE LODGE NO. 81 ______ HON. VICENTE GONZALEZ of texas in the house of representatives Thursday, July 9, 2026 Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 175th Anniversary of Rio Grande Lodge No. 81, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, and honor their unwavering commitment to serving the Brownsville community. Since 1851, Rio Grande Lodge No. 81 has strengthened South Texas through dedicated civic engagement and public service. By supporting youth initiatives, assisting seniors, and investing in local facilities, the Lodge has strengthened our community and improved the lives of countless families. Education has long been at the heart of the Lodge's mission. From sponsoring early literacy programs to funding scholarships, their work empowers and provides vital resources for students to finish high school and earn their bachelor's degrees. These initiatives have fostered a love of learning, greater civic responsibility, and patriotism within generations of young people. Beyond the classroom, the Lodge has worked to improve the lives of families throughout our community. Its members have helped provide dental care, medical treatment, and financial assistance, while also helping parents and grandparents by building ramps in homes to enhance safety and accessibility. Rio Grande Lodge No. 81 has also worked diligently to preserve the rich history of Brownsville and South Texas. Through its longstanding support of local museums, the Lodge has helped ensure that future generations understand the sacrifices, traditions, and stories that have shaped our region and our Nation. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the people of Texas' 34th Congressional District, I extend my deepest gratitude for the 175 years of service provided by the Rio Grande Lodge No. 81. Its outstanding contributions have inspired generations of South Texans, and I'm confident they will inspire many more. ____________________