NEWS FROM THE 15th DISTRICT

Dear Friends,

Congress is back in session and it's been a productive month so far. I wanted to take the time to give you all an update on the recent work in the 15th District of Texas.

As always it is my honor and privilege to serve the 15th District of Texas. Here are a few highlights and updates for October.

 $24,875 EPA Grant for UTRGV

On October 1, I announced I a $24,875 grant in federal funding for the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV). This grant was awarded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) National Student Design Competition for Sustainability. It will fund the Biochar-Geomedia Water Filter project that will create a low-cost prototype water filter to treat lead and other chemicals in drinking water.

$2.6 Million Grant for IDEA Public Schools

On October 1, I announced a $2.6 million grant in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Education to the IDEA Public Schools. The award will be used to implement the Mathways to STEM Success program which will promote STEM education and serve more the 43,000 high-need students in grades 6 through 12.

$3.75 Million Grant for Seguin Independent School District

On October 2, I secured a $3.75 million grant in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Education for Seguin Independent School District. The funding will be used for the School Climate Transformation initiative.

Nearly $3.7 Million Grant for Vanguard Academy Charter Schools

On October 2, I secured close to $3.7 million grant in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Education for the Vanguard Academy Charter Schools. The grant will be used for the School Climate Transformation initiative.

$16.6 Million FAA Grant for McAllen International Airport

On October 16, I secured a $16,680,726 federal funded grant by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) through the Airport Improvement Program (AIP) for the McAllen International Airport. This grant will be used to cover 90% of the costs for the storm water management system improvement project.

Rep. Vicente Gonzalez welcomed Nick Vujicic to the U.S. Capitol

(Congressman Gonzalez and Nick Vujicic at the Cannon House Office Building.)

On October 17th, I had the honor of welcoming my dear friend Nick Vujicic to the U.S. Capitol in Washington D.C. We discussed the importance of anti-bullying campaigns for young people. His life has been one of struggle and strength, and he came to share his story with my colleagues and fellow lawmakers.

Rep. Vicente Gonzalez meets with Argentinian Congresswoman Marcela Campagnoli

(Congressman Gonzalez and Argentinian Congresswoman Marcela Campagnoli.)

On October 16th, I met with Argentinian Congresswoman Marcela Campagnoli in Washington, D.C. We discussed ways to work together on energy and agricultural issues and improve the U.S. - Argentina relationship and an increase cooperation in the agriculture and energy sectors.

Rep Vicente Gonzalez meets with Texas Farm Bureau member Darren Fey

(Congressman Gonzalez and Darren Fey discuss agriculture and trade.)

On October 16th, I met with Texas Farm Bureau member and third generation rancher, Darren Fey. We discussed trade, the importance of securing trade routes in Mexico, and maintaining federal funding to combat cattle fever tick.

Sincerely,

Vicente Gonzalez
Member of Congress