Frederica Wilson

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, from the 24th District of the great State of Florida, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Leona Cooper-Baker, a lifelong resident of the City of Miami's Coconut Grove neighborhood. I include in the Record the following proclamation: Whereas, Leona Louise Cooper was born on December 26, 1936. She is a proud descendant of Miami's original Bahamian settlers, and her life was a testament to the rich history and enduring legacy of Miami's newly designated Little Bahamas of Coconut Grove neighborhood; and Whereas, she was one of nine children born to parents who migrated to Miami from Eleuthera, Bahamas, and she lived her entire life in the City of Coral Gables' Golden Gate subdivision, known for their historic Bahamian bungalow and shotgun wood frame style houses, in a home built on the land where her parents first settled; and Whereas, after graduating from George Washington Carver School in 1954. Mrs. Cooper-Baker pursued higher education at Lincoln University of Missouri, earning a degree in Elementary Education in 1960; and Whereas, Mrs. Cooper-Baker dedicated over three decades of her life to educating the youth of Miami-Dade County, beginning her career at Rainbow Park Elementary School in Opa-Locka, continuing at Bunche Park and George Washington Carver, and concluding her distinguished service, in 1992 at Shenandoah Elementary, where she retired; and Whereas, affectionately known as the ``Coconut Grove Historian,'' Mrs. Cooper-Baker was a passionate advocate for the preservation of Black and Bahamian history in Coconut Grove and Coral Gables' compiling an extensive archive of historic photographs, books, and articles that document the rich cultural heritage of the community; and Whereas, Mrs. Cooper-Baker's contributions to historic preservation extended to her leadership roles with the Miami/ Bahamas Goombay Festival's Historical Committee, the Historical Museum of Southern Florida, the Coral Gables Museum, and the Black Archives, ensuring that the stories of Coconut Grove's pioneers would be preserved for future generations; and Whereas, Mrs. Cooper-Baker played an instrumental role in securing the designation of Coral Gables MacFarlane Homestead Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places and served as a member of the Coral Gables Historic Preservation Board; and Whereas, her tireless work to preserve the history of the Little Bahamas neighborhood, Golden Gate subdivision, and the broader Coconut Grove community has left an indelible mark, earning her widespread respect and admiration; and Whereas, Mrs. Cooper-Baker was preceded in death by her parents and siblings, and she is survived by numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and other relatives, including her beloved niece Clarice Cooper, president of the Coconut Grove Village West Homeowners and Tenants Association; and Whereas, the Coconut Grove community and all who were touched by her life will forever cherish the memory of her generosity, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to the preservation of history and education; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a member of the United States House of Representatives representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, am honored to recognize the life of Leona Louise Cooper-Baker, extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends, and loved ones, and honor her immeasurable contributions to the community and to the preservation of Black and Bahamian history and culture.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, from the 24th District of the great state of Florida, I rise today to honor Commissioner Kionne L. McGhee for his philanthropy and commitment to at-risk youth. On behalf of the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project, I am proud to present a Congressional Award in recognition of his exceptional leadership and dedication to Miami-Dade County. Each year, we have the privilege of acknowledging distinguished Role Model Mentors, and it is with great pleasure that I congratulate him on joining this esteemed group. His status as a graduate of the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project underscores the ideals we uphold. His leadership as Vice-Chair of the Miami-Dade County Commission has been crucial in advancing equitable policies that empower our youth. His efforts to create opportunities for education and mentorship demonstrate a deep understanding of the challenges faced by many in our community. The 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project shares his vision of uplifting future leaders. His collaboration with local organizations and schools has created essential pathways for success, instilling hope in our youth. His commitment serves as an inspiration not only to those he mentors but also to his colleagues and constituents. We recognize his achievements and extend our gratitude for his tireless work to enhance the quality of life in Miami-Dade County. I congratulate him on this well-deserved honor. We look forward to our continued partnership in developing the next generation of leaders. We now recognize Role Model Miami-Dade Commissioner Mr. Kionne L. McGhee as a distinguished role model. As a proud alumnus of the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Program, Mr. McGhee has successfully transformed from a past characterized by challenges to becoming one of the program's most accomplished and dedicated mentors. In his capacity as Vice-Chair of the Miami-Dade County Commission, his leadership has been pivotal in advancing policies that foster equity, education, and empowerment for all community members.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, from the 24th District, of the great state of Florida, I rise today to recognize the grand reopening of the Haitian Historical Museum and Archives in North Miami, Florida and commend the efforts of The Haitian-American Historical Society (HAHS). I include in the Record the following proclamation: Whereas, The Haitian Historical Museum and Archives-- through artifact, paintings, photography and performances-- tells the story of Haiti's history and rich culture; Whereas, The Haitian Historical Museum and Archives documents and showcases the contributions of Haitians and Haitian descendants to South Florida, the United States and other parts of the world; Whereas, The Haitian Historical Museum and Archives serves to educate future generations of Haitian-Americans about their heritage and build a connection to Haiti; Whereas, The Haitian Historical Museum and Archives serves to foster understanding, tolerance and cooperation between South Florida's diverse communities; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, commend the Haitian American Historical Society for preserving Haitian history and fostering a resurgence of interest in Haitian culture among South Floridians.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, from the 24th District, of the great state of Florida, I rise today to recognize and honor life of the late Mrs. Maria H. Arenas, beloved educator, wife, and mother who passed away on June 21, 2013. I include in the Record the following proclamation: Whereas Mrs. Arenas was an enthusiastic educator and administrator in the Miami-Dade County Public School system for over thirty years until her retirement in summer of 2006; Whereas, Mrs. Arenas was a lifelong devotee to the pursuit of knowledge, earning her high school degree from Miami Northwestern High School in 1965, a Bachelor of Science degree in Speech and Theater Arts from Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University, a Master's of Science degree in Educational Curriculum, and had, at the time of her passing, completed all of the required coursework toward earning a Doctoral degree in Education; Whereas Mrs. Arenas travelled extensively around the world and allowed others to share in her experiences through social media websites; Whereas Mrs. Arenas was a vibrant member of the Red Hatters and numerous other civic and social organizations; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, commend Mrs. Maria H. Arenas for her years of service and dedication to Miami-Dade County Public Schools, her community, and to her family.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, from the 24th District, of the great state of Florida, I rise today to recognize and honor retiring United Teachers of Dade, Union President Karen Aronowitz for her leadership and dedication to our students, teachers, parents and schools. I include in the Record the following proclamation: Whereas Karen Aronowitz served three terms as President of United Teachers of Dade (UTD), represented 32,000 teachers and education support professionals, led successful reform initiatives, including the School Improvement Zone for underperforming schools within the Miami-Dade County Public Schools system, which served as a national model for improved school performance; Whereas, Mrs. Aronowitz created professional improvement and development programs for educators through the establishment UTD's Education Summit and the UTD Teaching Excellence Foundation; Whereas, Mrs. Aronowitz has been featured in numerous national publications, such as The Wall Street Journal and Who's Who among American Teachers, for her work and research in education, for which she has also received several awards including the Jewish Museum of Florida's ``Breaking the Glass Ceiling Award, the Monty Trainer Chairman's Award for Speaking UP for Public Education and honored as a ``Trail Blazer for Education by the Bethune-Cookman University Miami- Dade Alumni Association; Whereas, Mrs. Aronowitz serves on the American Federation of Teachers Executive Council, is a member of AFT's Human Rights and Community Relations Committee and Democracy Committee, serves on the United Way of Miami-Dade Public Policy Committee and is a member of the Miami-Chapter of the NAACP; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, commend Karen Aronowitz for her dedication and commitment to our students, our teachers, our parents and our schools.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, from the 24th District of the great state of Florida, I rise today to honor the life of the late Reverend Shedrick Edward Gilbert, dutiful servant of God, well respected and admired religious leader, community activist, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend. I include in the Record the following proclamation: Whereas, Reverend Gilbert served Historic Saint Agnes Episcopal Church in Miami, Florida, for 57 years before his retirement in 2012 from the Deaconate and active ministry at age 90; and Whereas Reverend Gilbert served in various roles at St. Agnes Episcopal Church which include, Vestryman, Treasurer and Clerk and the Deaconate; and Whereas, Reverend Gilbert dedicated his life to the ministry, his church and to helping his community by advocating for support and funding from the City of Miami Commission for St. Agnes' Rainbow Village Community Development Corporation, a housing development program for Miami's Overtown community; and Whereas Reverend Gilbert served as Director of St. Agnes' Rainbow Village Community Development Corporation and coordinated an eight-week Summer Program for the youth in the Overtown area; and Whereas, Reverend Gilbert served on several committees for the Diocese of Southeast Florida, including the Credentials Committee for 13 years, served as president of the Algonquin Club and president of the Booker T. Washington Class of 1938; and Whereas Reverend Gilbert was presented with numerous awards among them the Unsung Hero award from the Booker T. Washington Alumni Association and the Man of the Year award for outstanding community service from the King of Clubs of Greater Miami; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, commend the late Reverend Shedrick Edward Gilbert for his commitment to God and spreading God's message, for his devotion to his family and his congregation and for his dedication to our community.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, from the 24th District of the great state of Florida, I rise today to honor the life of the late Pastor Jeffrey N. Hamilton, a faithful servant of God, an advocate for education, community activist, and devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. I include in the Record the following proclamation: Whereas, in 1991, as a member of Mt. Tabor Missionary Baptist Church, Pastor Jeffrey Hamilton was called into the ministry. After moving his membership to Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church, he was ordained to teach the word of God and went on to serve as the youth minister at Greater Peace Missionary Baptist Church. In 2006, he was called to pastor at Shady Grove Missionary Baptist Church and then went on to establish his own church, the New Life Christian Worship Center Family in Miami's Liberty City; and Whereas Pastor Hamilton was considered a beacon of light by his congregation and his community, and was affectionately called ``Coach Ham'' by the thousands of children he worked with through numerous community organizations including the Children of Inmates and The Drug Free Coalition, the Miami Dade County School Board, the Healthy Mind Healthy Heart Program, the Hosanna Community Baptist Church Foundation and the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project; and Whereas Pastor Hamilton believed that education is an essential building block to success and, as a strong believer in the expression ``practice what you preach,'' went back to school to further his education and pursed a Master's Degree in Divinity and Special Education from St. Thomas University and from Nova University; and Whereas Pastor Hamilton's passion for students was unmatched and he touched the lives of elementary, middle and high school students across Miami-Dade; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, am honored to pay tribute to the late Pastor Jeffrey Hamilton, for his passion and devotion to God, his church, to our students and community.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Haitian Heritage Museum. I include in the Record the following proclamation: Whereas, the Haitian Heritage Museum is an integral part of our community, embodying and preserving Haiti's rich culture and heritage; Whereas, the Haitian Heritage Museum has given Haitian art a permanent and prominent place in South Florida's art community; Whereas the Haitian Heritage Museum's scholarship program provides deserving students an opportunity to further their education and perfect their talent as artists; Whereas, the Haitian Heritage Museum will honor community leaders who have made extraordinary contributions to Haitian heritage and culture during its 9th Annual Discover Haiti Gala on Saturday, February 23rd; Whereas, the Haitian Heritage Museum will present the Father Jean Juste Visionary Award, named after the visionary leader who advocated for human rights and social justice on behalf of Haiti's poor; Whereas Father Jean Juste is widely regarded as the ``Godfather'' of Miami's Little Haiti community; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida-- 1. Recognize the tremendous contributions of the Haitian Heritage Museum to South Florida; 2. Affirm the importance of promoting and preserving Haitian art and culture; and 3. Honor the recipients of the Father Jean Juste Visionary Award.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, from the 24th District of the great state of Florida, I rise today to honor the life of the late Mrs. Mattie Mae Paul, a faithful servant of God, a community activist--who lived in the district for 57 years--a beloved mother and friend. I include in the Record the following proclamation: Mrs. Mattie Mae Paul, an inspiration to all who knew her, returned to school at the age of 59 fulfilling a lifelong dream to further her education by earning her AA Degree in Education; and Whereas, Mrs. Paul, after her retirement from Saint Francis Hospital following a 23-year career, went to work for Miami- Dade County Public Schools at Henry E.S. Reeves Elementary School; and Whereas, Mrs. Paul was an active member of New Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church for 40 years, where she was active with the Mission Ministry, Music Ministry/Mass Choir, Usher Ministry, Woman's Ministry and was an assistant Sunday School Teacher; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida. am honored to pay tribute to the late Mrs. Mattie Mae Paul, for her commitment to God and her church, and for her dedication and devotion to her family, friends and to our community.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, from the 24th District, of the great state of Florida, I rise today, to pay tribute to the late Pastor James Frederick ``Rick'' Hines, Jr., a well-respected man of God, spiritual leader and mentor, loving son, husband and father. I include in the Record the following proclamation: Whereas Pastor Hines was a passionate and beloved youth pastor, at Koinonia Worship Center and Village, who was dedicated to spreading the Word of God; Whereas Pastor Hines devoted countless hours to mentoring young people and often credited the church's success with its youth, to practicing the teachings of one of his favorite Bible verses Proverbs 22:6: ``Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it;'' Whereas Pastor Hines served his country dutifully as a soldier in the United States Army from 1977 to 1979; Whereas Pastor Hines was a lifelong resident of South Florida who loved his community and worked to make it a better place to live; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida honor the life and legacy of the late Pastor James Frederick ``Rick'' Hines, Jr. and commend him for his commitment and dedication to his family, his church and our community.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, from the 24th District, of the great state of Florida, I rise today to recognize and honor retired mail clerk, Mr. Matthew Williams Jr., an ardent and honorable member of the United States Postal Service for 32 years, who began his career as a truck driver before rising through the ranks to become a mail clerk. I include in the Record the following proclamation: Whereas, Mr. Williams has received numerous awards and accolades for his enthusiastic performance during his tenure including perfect attendance, achieving over 1500 hours of sick leave, and a dedication to service award; Whereas Mr. Williams provided an invaluable service to his country as a member of the United States Army in both Vietnam and Korea achieving the rank of Sergeant before being honorably discharged in 1975; Whereas Mr, Williams' unwavering devotion to God has been evidenced by his ministration as Deacon, Assistant Superintendent of Sunday School, and Usher at Greater New Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church; Whereas, Mr. Williams has been the loving and devoted husband of Sandra Williams for 37 years, father of Senior Master Chief Heerey C. Gaston, Jr., Tameka W. Jones, Monique W. Deggins, and Matthew B. Williams III, and grandfather of nine grandchildren; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, commend Mr. Matthew Williams, Jr. for his years of commitment and faithful service to his country, his community, and his family.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ray Mou. I include in the Record the following proclamation: Whereas, Mr. Ray Mou, Director General of Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO), in Miami since September 2010, has overseen trade relations between Florida and Taiwan that have improved by 20 percent with an average bilateral trade volume of more than $817 Million; Whereas, Mr. Mou has worked closely with the Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce in Florida to explore and develop business opportunities, such as trade missions between Miami entrepreneurs and Taiwan; Whereas, Mr. Mou has worked to strengthen relations between Taiwan and Miami political and business leaders by coordinating annual visits; Whereas, Mr. Mou has worked to foster a relationship between 32 universities to promote language and cultural learning programs offered at the Taiwan Academy; Whereas, Mr. Mou has taken an active role in Haiti's reconstruction after the earthquake by taking part in humanitarian aid projects of the international charity NGO ``Food for the Poor,'' Whereas, Mr. Mou has worked to educate South Floridians about Asian culture through Chinese gourmet cuisines, traditional artistries and Taiwanese products; Whereas, Mr, Mou has spent the past three years working to promote a strong and lasting business relationship not just in South Florida but across the state; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida-- commend Mr, Ray Mou, Director General of Miami's Taipei Economic and Cultural Office, for his commitment to our community's economic, educational and humanitarian growth

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, from the 24th District of the great state of Florida, I rise today to recognize the late Mrs. Jeanet Grayson, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, daughter, friend, and devoted member of Bethel Baptist Church. I include in the Record the following proclamation: Whereas, Mrs. Jeanet Grayson was the rock and foundation of her large and loving family of 17 children, 68 grandchildren, 63 great-grandchildren, 10 great-great-grandchildren, 2 brothers, 2 nephews, 2 nieces, 2 great nephews, 1 great niece, 2 godchildren, 3 adopted daughters, 7 sisters-in-law, and 6 brothers-in-law; and Whereas, Mrs. Grayson was entrusted with the lives of hundreds of schol children and took great responsibility in caring for them as a bus driver and food service provider with Miami Dade County Public Schools, and as a bus driver and student attendant at Whole Word Christian Academy: and Whereas, Mrs. Grayson was a founder of The Road Runners, an organization of Southwest Transportation; and Whereas, Mrs. Grayson was a faithful member of Bethel Baptist Church, where she sang in the choir and was a driver for the Evangelism Ministry; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a Member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, commend the late Mrs. Jeanet Grayson for her dedication to her family and friends and her church and for her commitment to our community.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, from the 24th District of the great state of Florida, I rise today to recognize and honor retired educator Mrs. Agenoria Lucille Spearman Paschal, a legendary pioneer in education in Miami-Dade County Public Schools; a visionary ahead of her time; an advocate for students, teachers, parents, our schools; and a dedicated community servant. I include in the Record the following proclamation: Whereas, Mrs. Paschal served Miami-Dade County Public Schools and her community for over 40 years, inspiring thousands of students and developing programs that resulted in groundbreaking changes and improvements within the Miami- Dade County Public School System, for which she was honored with numerous awards and national recognition; and Whereas, Mrs. Paschal held the positions of teacher, assistant principal, principal, and director, and implemented programs including the Mobile Reading Clinic, Non-Graded Grouping, Magic Circle Awareness, and extended Public Library Services; and Whereas, Mrs. Paschal was instrumental in the writing of an educational proposal that led to the opening of the first segregated elementary school in the Miami-Dade County Public School System, initially called Primary School C and later named Thena Crowder Elementary School; and Whereas, Mrs. Paschal opened Olinda Elementary School in Liberty City, served as its first principal and successfully ran its Triple-T Program, a collaboration between Miami-Dade County Public Schools and the University of Miami that provided training and further education for teachers and paraprofessionals, many of who went on to become assistant principals, principals, and directors who also made outstanding contributions to education; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a Member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, commend Mrs. Agenoria Lucille Spearman Paschal, for her leadership and outstanding contributions to education in Miami-Dade County Public Schools, and for her selfless, unwavering commitment and dedication to our community.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, from the 24th District of the great state of Florida, I rise today to recognize and honor Dr. Edward J. Braynon, Jr., a dedicated community-servant, civil rights activist, role model, and mentor. I include in the Record the following proclamation: Whereas, Dr. Braynon has been a loyal and faithful member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. for 68 years and has served as Basileus of Sigma Alpha Chapter, Florida's State Representative, First Vice Seventh Representative (Alabama, Florida, Georgia and Mississippi), Seventh District Representative, First Vice Grand Basileus, and Grand Basileus, and Whereas, Dr. Braynon's leadership, vision, and integrity have played a vital role in building, binding, and strengthening Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and Sigma Alpha Chapter. He is credited with remaining steadfast to enhancing and promoting the organization's principles of Manhood, Scholarship, Perserverance, and Uplift, and Whereas, Dr. Braynon as Grand Basileus of Sigma Alpha Chapter played a key role in a massive ``Get Out The Vote,'' initiative where Omega chapters around the country were actively involved and helped win Jimmy Carter the Presidency with the largest Back vote in history and landed Dr. Braynon an invitation along with several other Black leaders to a ``White-House Luncheon,'' and Whereas, Dr. Braynon touched and impacted the lives of countless young men as a mentor with the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project and won the admiration and respect of our community for his activism and community service, and Whereas, Dr. Braynon used his dental skills to meet the needs of our community, served as a member of the Dental Society providing leadership and guidance to new generations of dental professionals, and was a member of numerous civic and community organizations dedicated to the betterment of the quality of life for South Floridians, and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a Member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, am proud to recognize and honor Dr. Edward J. Braynon, Jr., for his unwavering commitment to Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., community service, our youth, and his profession.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, from the 24th District of the great state of Florida, I rise today to recognize Sergeant Major Arthur Wells who has recently been selected as the South Florida Federal Employee of the year. Whereas, Sergeant Major Wells has been a devoted leader and driving force in his community and is an active advocate for veterans for he is a veteran. Wells served his country with pride for 39 years, until his retirement in 2005. I include in the Record the following proclamation: Whereas, Sergeant Major Wells has been a tireless worker for Miami-Dade County, Broward County, and Monroe County, assisting many veterans to obtain prosthetic limbs and devices such as electric wheelchairs, scooters, patient lifts, and many other instruments to ease any vet's daily tasks. Further, into his efforts of helping United States solders, he is the president of South Florida Army National Guard Family Support Foundation, a nonprofit organization that assists deployed soldiers' families with funds to pay bills while the soldier is overseas; and Whereas, Sergeant Major Wells' compassion has helped propel his success amongst Bruce W. Carter Miami VA Healthcare Systems being the assistant chief of prosthetics service for 25 years. As a mentor and supervisor of 21 staff members, Sergeant Major Wells constantly exceeds the expectations of his colleagues; and Whereas, Sergeant Major Wells is also an outstanding president to multiple nonprofit organizations, including South Florida Chapter of Blacks in Government and the chairperson of the EEO Black Employment Program, with a list of accomplishments including scholarship programs and fundraising events; and Whereas, Sergeant Major Wells has a bachelor of specialized training in military science from the National Consortium Staff College and an honorary degree of doctor of humanities National Consortium Staff College as well; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a Member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, commend Sergeant Major Wells for his dedication to his profession and our veterans and commitment to the community.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, from the 24th District of the great state of Florida, I rise today to recognize and honor legendary reggae superstar Hugh Beresford Hammond, known to his legions of fans and the music world as Beres Hammond. I include in the Record the following proclamation: Whereas, Mr. Hammond's distinctive, romantic, and soulful style, which was influenced by American soul and jazz music, and native Jamaican artists he grew up listening to in Annotto Bay, Jamaica, has garnered him international notoriety and acclaim; and Whereas, Mr. Hammond began singing and performing in local talent shows in the 1970s, and his career has spanned more than 40 years, resulting in numerous hit singles and albums that have topped music charts; and Whereas, Mr. Hammond formed his own record label, Harmony Records, in 1985 and released his album ``Make a Song,'' which had two Jamaican chart-toppers and set the stage for his success and recognition in the reggae music industry; and Whereas, Mr. Hammond's 2012 album ``One Love, One Life,'' topped the Billboard Reggae Albums chart. He has performed with iconic musicians, including Maxi Priest, Wyclef Jean, Buju Banton, and Big Youth; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a Member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, commend Hugh Beresford ``Beres'' Hammond for his talent and dedication to his art, and for his contributions to the music industry.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, from the 24th District of the great state of Florida, I rise today, as a descendant of Bahamians, to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Bahamian independence and to pay tribute to its citizens and Bahamian-Americans living in South Florida and across the United States. I include in the Record the following proclamation: Whereas, the Islands of the Bahamas became an Independent Commonwealth Country on July 10, 1973, after centuries of British rule; and Whereas, the proud people who, through uncertainty and tough economic times, remained steadfast and determined to build a brighter future after its hard-fought independence, showed great strength and unwavering will; and Whereas, today, The Bahamas has a thriving economy built around tourism and financial services; the tenacious and enduring spirit of the Bahamian people, and its rich traditions and culture; Whereas, Bahamians and Bahamian-Americans have made significant contributions to the United States through the art and humanities, business, activism, and local and national government, and remain an integral part of the South Florida community; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a Member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, and a person of Bahamian descent, am proud to recognize the 40th anniversary of this resilient, free, and sovereign nation, and pay tribute to the wonderful people and descendants who make it great.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, from the 24th District of the great state of Florida, I rise today to recognize and honor Dr. Freeman T. Wyche, Sr., an inspirational man of God and a revered spiritual leader in the Miami's Liberty City community who has served as senior minister of the Liberty City Church of Christ for 35 years. I include in the Record the following proclamation: Whereas, Dr. Wyche is dedicated to his church and to his community, having chaired and served on the boards of many civic and educational organizations in Miami-Dade County and the State of Florida; and Whereas, Dr. Wyche was mentored by the late renowned Dr. Marshall Keeble, and has earned several degrees from the University of Houston, New York Theological Seminary, and Faith College; and Whereas, Dr. Wyche provided an invaluable service to his country, having served as an air traffic controller and a hospital administrator in the United States Air Force and achieving the rank of master sergeant before retiring at Homestead Air Force Base in 1990; and Whereas, Dr. Wyche's unwavering devotion to God has been evidenced by his decades of ministration, teaching, evangelizing, and counseling across the Nation and around the world; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a Member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, commend Dr. Freeman T. Wyche, Sr., for his years of faithful service to his family, his church, and our community.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, from the 24th District of the great state of Florida, I rise today to recognize Mrs. Eunice J. Davis, a proud, dedicated member of Gamma Zeta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, a dynamic leader and a devoted community servant. I include in the Record the following proclamation: Whereas, Mrs. Eunice J. Davis has been a faithfu1 member of Gamma Zeta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and committed to the sorority's mission of service to all mankind; and Whereas, Mrs. Davis has exemplified exceptional leadership and organizational skills to become the new president-elect of Gamma Zeta Omega Chapter; and Whereas, Mrs. Davis joined Gamma Zeta Omega Chapter in 1990, was named 2002 Soror of the Year, and has been an invaluable member for 23 years; and Whereas, Mrs. Davis served as co-chair of the board of directors of Women Involved in Service to Humanity (WISH) Foundation, Incorporated, served as chairperson of the Spring and Fall Life Skills Workshops for the Jefferson Reaves House Women's Residential Center Substance Abuse Treatment Facility, and held several chapter offices and chaired numerous committees; and Whereas, Mrs. Davis was awarded the WISH Foundation's Chairman of the Board Award for outstanding service and, although retired, is recognized as an outstanding educator and school principal who has received community-wide recognition along with many other awards; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a Member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, commend Mrs. Eunice J. Davis, my friend and Soror, for her dedication to Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and for her commitment to serving the people of South Florida.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dorothy Ballard Gibson. I include in the Record the following proclamation: Whereas, Dorothy Ballard Gibson graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in 1948 and went on to pursue a career in healthcare, earning her bachelor of science degree in nursing from the Medical College of Virginia; and Whereas, Mrs. Gibson dedicated her life to healthcare in south Florida, working as a registered nurse at Jackson Memorial Hospital in 1956, Kendall Hospital in 1962, and as a supervisor at the Veterans Administration Hospital from 1966 until her retirement in 1990; and Whereas, Mrs. Gibson and her husband, Sampson, established Michael's Kindergarten, Inc., and educated thousands of children from Miami's Liberty City, Opa-Locka, Carol City, and numerous other communities, at four day care centers; and Whereas, Mrs. Gibson was an active member of Mt. Zion AME Church, where she served with the Missionary Society, the Trustee Board, Youth Development Department, and the Little Folk Choir, and was the founder of the Dorothy Gibson Lay Organization; and Whereas, Mrs. Gibson was an active member in her community and often lobbied the State legislature as a children's advocate; and Whereas, Mrs. Gibson was honored by the Miami-Dade County Child Development Services and received numerous awards, including the daycare center she founded, Michael's Kindergarten, Inc., being named Day Care Center of the Year; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a Member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, recognize the tremendous contributions made by Mrs. Dorothy Ballard Gibson. I affirm her positive and far-reaching impact upon our community and our children. I honor her many years of dedication and service to South Florida.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, from the 24th District of the great state of Florida, I rise today to recognize and honor the late Mrs. Gussie Mae Hall of Miami, Florida, an exceptional woman who has left an enduring legacy of humbleness, kindness, and strength. I include in the Record the following proclamation: Whereas, Mrs. Hall was a tireless supporter of local African-American elected officials and actively engaged in the democratic process by educating members of the community on the importance of the right to vote and encouraging their registration and participation; and Whereas, Mrs. Hall was a lifelong resident of South Florida who was born in Homestead, Florida, formally educated in the Miami-Dade County Public School system, and worked through her church, He Reigns Interdenominational Ministries, Incorporated, to improve our community; and Whereas, Mrs. Hall was an outstanding citizen, wife, mother, and friend; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a Member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, commend the late Mrs. Gussie Mae Hall for her years of loving and faithful service to her family, her church, and our community.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, as Chair of the U.S. Commission on the Social Status of Black Men and Boys, on the occasion of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's Annual Legislative Conference, where we gathered to officially cut the ribbon for the Commission and to honor the memory of young Black boys who were murdered, and the parents who continue to carry their sons' legacies forward. It is in that spirit that I pay tribute to my colleague, Congresswoman Lucy McBath of Georgia's 6th district whose journey from a grieving mother to one of this Nation's most persistent voices against gun violence continues to shape the work we do in this Congress. In 2012, Lucy's son, Jordan Davis, was shot and killed at a Jacksonville gas station after an argument over the volume of his music. He was seventeen years old. In the years that followed, Lucy refused to let his death become another statistic. She became the national spokeswoman for Everytown for Gun Safety and Moms Demand Action, carrying Jordan's story into communities and statehouses across the country, and in 2018 she carried it all the way to the floor of this House. Since coming to Congress, Lucy has turned personal loss into legislative action. She has been instrumental in passing the Bipartisan Safer Communities Law, helped secure funding to study gun violence as the public health crisis it is, after decades in which that research had gone unfunded, and now serves as Vice Chair of the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force. She has stood on this floor to mark the anniversary of Sandy Hook and has authored legislation to fund community-based violence intervention, understanding that the fight against gun violence must be waged in neighborhoods as much as in this chamber. Today, Lucy continues to bring that same commitment to this panel, sharing Jordan's story once more, this time alongside other families who understand exactly what she has carried for over a decade. Her willingness to keep telling that story, even after years in public life, reflects a truth she has lived every day since 2012: that the pain of losing a child to gun violence never truly ends, but it can be transformed into the work of protecting other families from that same loss. Lucy's path from a mother on a mission to a leader on this floor stands as a testament to what grief can become when it is met with purpose. She has shown her colleagues, and the country, that advocacy borne of unimaginable loss can still change laws, change funding priorities, and change how this Nation talks about gun violence. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Congresswoman Lucy McBath for her tireless advocacy against gun violence, and for continuing to carry Jordan's memory into every fight she takes on for the families of this country.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, as Chair of the U.S. Commission on the Social Status of Black Men and Boys, on the occasion of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's Annual Legislative Conference, where we gathered to officially cut the ribbon for the Commission and to honor the memory of young Black boys who were murdered, and the parents who continue to carry their sons' legacies forward. It is in that spirit that I pay tribute to Attorney Benjamin Crump, who spent his career confronting the disparities Black men and boys face in our criminal justice system, our schools, our hospitals, and our workplaces. For nearly two decades, families who had nowhere else to turn have turned to him. As founder and principal owner of Ben Crump Law, he has stood beside the families of Trayvon Martin, Michael Brown, Stephon Clark, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and George Floyd, and he has fought for the residents of Flint, Michigan, in their long battle for clean water. He carried the case for reparations on behalf of the family of Henrietta Lacks. As this panel's participants share the pain of losing a child and the fight that grief has demanded of them, Mr. Crump is not hearing their stories for the first time--he has lived alongside families carrying that exact weight for most of his career. What sets his work apart is that it rarely ends with verdicts alone. Time and again, he has taken the outcome of a single case and pushed it further, turning accountability for one family into policy that protects others--legislation restricting excessive use of force and requiring implicit bias training within law enforcement agencies. He understands, in other words, how an individual family's tragedy becomes the basis for the very kind of systemic reform this Commission was created to recommend. That commitment to building something lasting extends beyond any single case. Mr. Crump founded and directs the Benjamin Crump Social Justice Institute, and in 2023, St Thomas University's College of Law in Miami was renamed the Benjamin L. Crump College of Law in his honor--the first law school in the country named for a practicing Black attorney. It is that same investment in the next generation, and in turning individual pain into lasting institutions, that he brings to this panel today: a chance to ensure the stories shared by our families are not simply heard, but translated into the policy recommendations this Commission is charged with delivering. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Attorney Benjamin Crump for his extraordinary contributions to civil rights and social justice, and for lending his voice and his experience to this vital conversation on behalf of Black men and boys across America.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, as the Chair of the U.S. Commission on the Social Status of Black Men and Boys on the occasion of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's Annual Legislative Conference, where we gathered to officially cut the ribbon for the U.S. Commission on the Social Status of Black Men and Boys and to honor the memory of young Black boys who were murdered, and the parents who continue to carry their sons' legacies forward. It is in that spirit that I pay tribute to Santonio and Monica Carter, the parents of King Carter, a six-year-old boy from Miami whose life was taken by a stray bullet as he walked to a nearby store. In the years since, Mr. and Mrs. Carter refused to let his death be reduced to a headline. King was walking to buy candy near his home in Liberty City when he was struck and killed in the crossfire of a dispute that had nothing to do with him. In the aftermath, his parents did what no parent should ever have to do: they buried their son, and then they turned their grief into a demand that the community around them do better by its children. Mr. and Mrs. Carter have since become fixtures in their community, not as bystanders to its violence but as people actively working to interrupt it. They founded ``Save Our Kings and Queens'' in their son's honor, offering young people in their neighborhood an alternative to the streets and a reminder that someone is watching out for them. They have stood at rallies, spoken to reporters, and shown up year after year at prayer vigils and balloon releases marking the day their son was taken, insisting each time that King's name not be allowed to fade. The street where King was killed now bears his name, a small but permanent reminder to everyone who passes that a child's life was lost there and that his family refused to let the moment pass quietly. Santonio has said plainly that he cannot get much out of life right now except helping somebody else, and that spirit has carried him and Monica through a grief no family should have to bear. The Carters carry with them not only the memory of their son but years of hard-won experience turning private loss into public purpose. Their presence is a reminder that the fight against gun violence is not an abstraction debated in hearing rooms alone--it is carried, every day, by parents like them who have chosen to keep showing up. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Santonio and Monica Carter for their courage, their persistence, and their unwavering commitment to ensuring that their son, King Carter's life continues to mean something for the children who come after him.