Happy Easter Weekend

Happy Good Friday! For many of us, today represents a time to reflect on Christ’s passion and ground our faith. As Christians, I hope each of you can set aside time this weekend to meet with fellow followers in observance of His suffering, death, and resurrection. Remember Jesus said,

“Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. And you know the way to where I am going… I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you had known me, you would have known my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him.”
John 14: 1-4; 6-7

I wish each of you a hope-filled and Easter weekend.

Raising Up Our Future Leaders

This week I recognized three exceptional high school students from the 17th District, each appointed to prestigious military service academies. Their selection underscores their dedication, excellence, and service to the United States.

Avery Koonce's journey to the U.S. Air Force Academy is due to her exceptional leadership and academic achievements. Avery embodies the discipline and values necessary for success, and her future endeavors will undoubtedly enhance our nation's defense and core principles. Congratulations, Avery, on your well-deserved appointment!

Marshall Kolb, also heading to the U.S. Air Force Academy, exemplifies the remarkable outcomes of combined sportsmanship and academic excellence. I was pleased to present him with his nomination at Midway High School’s baseball game against Temple High School. Congratulations, Marshall, on your distinguished achievement!

Sarah Haisler's appointment to the U.S. Coast Guard Academy signals the arrival of a leader ready to uphold our military's tradition of readiness and excellence. Sarah will significantly contribute to the Coast Guard’s legacy of duty and protecting our homeland. Congratulations, Sarah!

Each of these students embodies the American spirit of service and commitment to a greater cause. Avery, Marshall, and Sarah represent the best of our communities and nation. As they embark on the next phase of their journey, we offer our deepest congratulations and support. I am proud of each of them and eagerly anticipate their contributions to the proud legacy of the United States military.

Honoring our Veterans

This Wednesday, in Franklin, Texas, I participated in a ribbon-cutting for Sergeant Sid Hamid’s (Ret.) newly renovated home, thanks to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. The foundation transformed Sgt. Hamid’s farmhouse to support his significant medical needs resulting from burn pit exposure during his over forty years of service, including as a Green Beret.

The renovation, which includes Smart Home Technology and handicap accessibility, ensures Sgt. Hamid’s comfort and independence at home. This relieves physical and financial barriers, which underscores the deep gratitude we have for our veterans.

Many veterans do not receive the support they need when returning to civilian life. The United States is a grateful nation and on the right path to help these veterans who have given so much. The Tunnel to Towers Foundation’s dedication to our veterans exemplifies the support and recognition they deserve after wearing our country's uniform.

Sgt. Hamid’s story and the foundation's support highlight our collective duty to honor and assist our veterans. The resilience and sacrifice of our nation’s military service members is inspiring. Our nation stands with them, committed to honoring their service.

SHSU Observatory

On Thursday, I attended the grand opening of the Dominey Observatory on the campus of Sam Houston State University (SHSU). This facility isa remarkable testament to the legacy of Sam Dominey and his career of curiosity and pursuit of knowledge.

Sam Dominey’s journey from an eager physics student at SHSU to a pioneer in the fields of nuclear military aircraft development and helicopter safety is a story of innovation and dedication. The discovery and restoration of an antique telescope during his time at the university symbolize the spirit of exploration and preservation that the Dominey Observatory now embodies. This historic telescope, a rare artifact from Alvan Clark & Sons, will be displayed in the observatory, bridging the past with the present and future.

Featuring a domed retractable roof, the Dominey Observatory has been designed to ensure accessibility for all. Its unique periscope attachment, which adjusts the eyepiece to a comfortable seated height, and the inclusion of dual stairways and a lift, exemplify the inclusive spirit of this endeavor. It's a facility that welcomes everyone, from seasoned astronomers to curious novices, to explore the mysteries of the cosmos. It will be a hub for public science engagement and outreach at SHSU. Both astronomers-in-training and the public will be able to appreciate the observatory and the stars in our galaxy.

I extend congratulations to the Department of Physics and Astronomy at SHSU, and everyone involved in bringing this visionary project to life. The Dominey Observatory is a stellar example of how the legacy of curiosity and discovery will illuminate the path to knowledge for generations to come.

In the News

Local

KBTX: Tunnel to Towers renovates home for Robertson County veteran, pays off mortgage

KWTX: Midway Panther appointed to the Air Force Academy

KBTX: Franklin High School student commits to Coast Guard Academy

KLTV: East Texas content creator shares uncertain future amid TikTok bill discussion

KWTX: Central Texas teen becomes first person from Crawford ISD to get accepted into West Point

Groesbeck Journal: COUNTY FAIR AND LIVESTOCK SHOW DEDICATED TO THE GRAY’S

KWKT: Congressman Sessions votes against spending bill

National

The Washington Examiner: Illegal immigration at Canadian border has northern lawmakers on high alert

Newsmax: White House 'Abdicated' Border Authority

The Blaze: Biden's HHS reportedly lost 85,000 migrant children — GOP lawmakers demand answers

The New York Sun: Letter From House, Signaling a Probe Ahead, Asks Georgetown Law To Preserve the Records of Election Project

Sincerely,

Pete Sessions

Member of Congress

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