Frederica Wilson

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Dale Johnson for his stellar and philanthropic contributions to the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project. Frederick Douglass once said, ``it is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.'' I thank Dale Johnson so much for believing in our mission of interrupting the school to prison pipeline and to guiding our young boys along a cheerfully charted path and sending them to college. He is investing in the children of our community, and they will be the benefactors of his investment for generations to come. He will always be a part of us, and we will always be a part of him. I thank him for all that he does on behalf of our children. Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring Dale Johnson, a 2023 Role Model Wall Man with a generous philanthropic spirit and I ask my colleagues from the 117th Congress to join me in honoring this special circle of brotherhood.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Madam Speaker. I rise today to honor Deputy Chief Timothy Belcher for his stellar and philanthropic contributions to the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project. Frederick Douglas once said, ``it is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.'' I thank Deputy Chief Timothy Belcher so much for believing in our mission of interrupting the school to prison pipeline and to guiding our young boys along a cheerfully charted path and sending them to college. He is investing in the children of our community, and they will be the benefactors of his investment for generations to come. He will always be a part of us, and we will always be a part of him. I thank him for all that he does on behalf of our children. Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring Deputy Chief Timothy Belcher, a 2023 Role Model Wall Man with a generous philanthropic spirit, and I ask my colleagues from the 117th Congress to join me in honoring this special circle of brotherhood.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Ed Haynes for his stellar and philanthropic contributions to the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project. Frederick Douglass once said, ``it is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.'' I thank Ed Haynes so much for believing in our mission of interrupting the school to prison pipeline and to guiding our young boys along a cheerfully charted path and sending them to college. He is investing in the children of our community, and they will be the benefactors of his investment for generations to come. He will always be a part of us, and we will always be a part of him. I thank him for all that he does on behalf of our children. Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring Ed Haynes, a 2023 Role Model Wall Man with a generous philanthropic spirit, and I ask my colleagues from the 117th Congress to join me in honoring this special circle of brotherhood.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Senator Shevrin Jones for his stellar and philanthropic contributions to the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project. Frederick Douglass once said, ``it is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.'' I thank Shevrin Jones so much for believing in our mission of interrupting the school to prison pipeline and to guiding our young boys along a cheerfully charted path and sending them to college. He is investing in the children of our community, and they will be the benefactors of his investment for generations to come. He will always be a part of us, and we will always be a part of him. I thank him for all that he does on behalf of our children. Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring Senator Shevrin Jones, a 2023 Role Model Wall Man with a generous philanthropic spirit and I ask my colleagues from the 117th Congress to join me in honoring this special circle of brotherhood.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Dwight Jackson for his stellar and philanthropic contributions to the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project. Frederick Douglass once said, ``it is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.'' I thank him so much for believing in our mission of interrupting the school to prison pipeline and to guiding our young boys along a cheerfully charted path and sending them to college. He is investing in the children of our community, and they will be the benefactors of his investment for generations to come. He will always be a part of us, and we will always be a part of him. I thank him for all that he does on behalf of our children. Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring Dwight Jackson, a 2023 Role Model Wall Man with a generous philanthropic spirit and I ask my colleagues from the 117th Congress to join me in honoring this special circle of brotherhood.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Larry R. Handfield for his stellar and philanthropic contributions to the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project. Frederick Douglass once said, ``it is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.'' I thank Dr. Handfield so much for believing in our mission of interrupting the school to prison pipeline and to guiding our young boys along a cheerfully charted path and sending them to college. He is investing in the children of our community, and they will be the benefactors of his investment for generations to come. He will always be a part of us, and we will always be a part of him. I thank him for all that he does on behalf of our children. Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring Dr. Larry R. Handfield, a 2023 Role Model Wall Man with a generous philanthropic spirit, and I ask my colleagues from the 117th Congress to join me in honoring this special circle of brotherhood.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Pastor Carl Johnson for his stellar and philanthropic contributions to the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project. Frederick Douglass once said, ``it is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.'' I thank Pastor Johnson so much for believing in our mission of interrupting the school to prison pipeline and to guiding our young boys along a cheerfully charted path and sending them to college. He is investing in the children of our community, and they will be the benefactors of his investment for generations to come. He will always be a part of us, and we will always be a part of him. I thank him for all the he does on behalf of our children. Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring Pastor Carl Johnson, a 2023 Role Model Wall Man with a, generous philanthropic spirit and I ask my colleagues from the 117th Congress to join me in honoring this special circle of brotherhood.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Rick Holton for his stellar and philanthropic contributions to the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Leviticus Gillard for his stellar and philanthropic contributions to the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project. Frederick Douglass once said, ``it is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.'' I thank Leviticus Gillard so much for believing in our mission of interrupting the school to prison pipeline and to guiding our young boys along a cheerfully charted path and sending them to college. He is investing in the children of our community, and they will be the benefactors of his investment for generations to come. He will always be a part of us, and we will always be a part of him. I thank him for all that he does on behalf of our children. Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring Leviticus Gilliard, a 2023 Role Model Wall Man with a generous philanthropic spirit, and I ask my colleagues from the 117th Congress to join me in honoring this special circle of brotherhood.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Madam Speaker, from the 24th District of the great State of Florida, I rise today to recognize and honor the life and legacy of Congresswoman Carrie Pittman Meek and commend her for her devotion to the Nation and its ideals. Whereas, Carrie Mae Pittman was born on April 29, 1926, in Tallahassee, Florida, where she was raised, the youngest of 12 children of Willie and Carrie Pittman. She was the daughter of sharecroppers and granddaughter of a slave; and Whereas, Congresswoman Meek earned a bachelor's degree in biology and physical education from Florida A&M University while setting records as a track and field athlete. Due to a ban in Florida that prevented Black students from attending State graduate schools, Ms. Meek enrolled at the University of Michigan, where she earned a master's degree in public health and physical education; and Whereas, upon graduation, she accepted a position at Bethune Cookman College as an instructor and became the institution's first female basketball coach. In 1958, she returned to Florida A&M as an instructor in Health and Physical Education; a position she held until 1961. Meek continued her teaching career at Miami Dade Community College as the first Black professor, associate dean, and assistant to the Vice President from 1961 to 1979; and Whereas, in 1979, Meek began her trailblazing political career as a Democratic Florida State House Representative. From 1983 to 1993, she served as the first African American woman in the Florida State Senate and went on to become a United States Congresswoman representing Florida's 17th Congressional district. One of the first Black members from Florida elected to Congress since the Reconstruction Era, Meek was a member of the powerful Appropriations Committee and worked to secure $100 million in aid to rebuild Dade County as the area recovered from Hurricane Andrew. While in the House, Congresswoman Meek focused her attention on issues such as economic development, health care, education, and housing. She led legislation through Congress to improve Dade County's transit system, airport, and seaport; to construct a new family and childcare center in northern Dade County; and to fund advanced aviation training programs at Miami-Dade Community College. Meek emerged as a strong advocate for Haitian immigrants and senior citizens; and Whereas, Ms. Meek later retired from public office in 2002 and founded the Carrie Meek Foundation, which provides the Miami-Dade community with critical resources, opportunities, and jobs. Ms. Meek was awarded honorary Juris Doctor degrees from the University of Miami, Florida A&M University, Barry University, Florida Atlantic University, and Rollins College. Ms. Meek was inducted into the Florida A&M University Sports Hall of Fame and honored with the co-naming of its James N. Eaton, Sr., Southeastern Regional Black Archives Research Center and Museum in Tallahassee, Florida. Ms. Meek was honored with the renaming of Broward County's Nova Southeastern College's Outstanding Education Leadership Achievement Scholarship and Miami, Florida's Northwest 27th Boulevard; and Whereas, Congresswoman Meek leaves to continue her work and carry on her legacy her children: Lucia Davis-Raiford, Sheila Davis Kinui (Mike), Kendrick B. Meek (Arshi); grandchildren: Ayo Raiford Barrett, Maggie Aldophe, Ryan C. Aldophe, Amber F. Kinui, Carrie Y. Kinui, Lauren Meek, Kendrick Meek, Jr.; great-grandchildren: Alana Barrett, Carissa Barrett, Anya Bonhomme, Bryce Lim, Chloe Raiford, Aidan Barrett. Woven into the tapestry of her life were special nieces and nephews: Juanita Pittman Bivins, Betty J. Pittman, Samuel Pittman, Jr. (Shirley), Cynthia G. Gilliam, Dr. Vincent June, Carmen V. Terry, Dorothy Ottman, Left to mourn her and sit in the shade under the trees in the forest she planted are a host of family members, dear cherished friends, and a beloved 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, am honored to recognize the late Congresswoman Carrie Pittman Meek for her exemplary career and contributions to public service, the people of Florida, and the American people.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Madam Speaker, from the 24th District of the great State of Florida, I rise today to honor Robert Shelley for his stellar service and contributions as Commissioner of the City of Aventura. Someone once said this about local government, ``when you are in local government, you are on the ground, and you are looking into the eyes and hearts of the people you are there to serve. It teaches you to listen; it teaches you to be expansive in the people with whom you talk to; and that engagement gives you political judgment.'' It is this same standard of leadership and approach that has distinguished his success at the City of Aventura. With input given from passionate public servants like Commissioner Shelley, Aventura is certain to have a bright future guided by a grounded approach to local governance, cooperation, and investment in the well-being of this community achieved during his tenure in office as a Commissioner. Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring Commissioner Robert Shelley for the completion of his term in office, his time, his commitment, and outstanding contribution representing the residents of the City Aventura.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Madam Speaker, from the 24th District of the great State of Florida, I rise today to honor Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist, journalist, and novelist, Leonard Pitts, Jr. Mr. Pitts is the recipient of the 2022 5000 Role Models of Excellence Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Freedom and Justice Award. A native of Southern California, Pitts entered the University of Southern California at 15 through a special honors program and graduated summa cum laude with a degree in English at age 19. Upon graduation, he worked as a freelance music reviewer for a broad range of publications. He wrote scripts for the award-winning documentary films King: From Atlanta to the Mountaintop (1986), Who We Are (1988), and Young Black Men: A Lost Generation (1990). He served as a staff writer for the music countdown show American Top 40 and its legendary host, Casey Kasem, from 1989 to 1991. In 1991, he was hired as a music critic by the Miami Herald and began writing commentary in 1995. He is perhaps best known for his twice-weekly syndicated columns that tackle the race, politics, and culture. He won the 2007 Pulitzer Prize in Commentary ``for his fresh, vibrant columns that spoke, with both passion and compassion, to ordinary people on often divisive issues.'' Other awards include first place for commentary in division four in the American Association of Sunday and Feature Editors' Ninth Annual Writing Awards competition; three National Association of Black Journalists' Awards of Excellence; and NABJ's 2008 Journalist of the Year. He is a five-time recipient of the Atlantic City Press Club's National Headliners Award and a seven-time recipient of the Society of Professional Journalists' Green Eyeshade Award. In 2001, he received the American Society of Newspaper Editors prestigious Award for Commentary Writing and was named Feature of the Year in the column writing division by Editor and Publisher magazine. In 2002, the National Society of Newspaper Columnists awarded Pitts its inaugural Columnist of the Year award; in 2016, it named him to its Hall of Fame. In 2002 and in 2009, GLAAD Media awarded Pitts the Outstanding Newspaper Columnist award. In 2017, he was awarded the Missouri Honor Medal and has received four honorary doctorates. The father of five is the author of four novels and has also written nonfiction books. Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring Leonard Pitts, Jr.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Madam Speaker, from the 24th District of the great State of Florida, I rise today in celebration of the 39th Miami/ Bahamas Goombay Festival and to pay tribute to a group of remarkable individuals for their historic longevity journey and commitment to Miami's Coconut Grove community. The Miami/Bahamas Goombay Festival is a celebration of cultural expression embracing the legacy of Miami's Bahamian-rooted community known as Coconut Grove. The three-day celebration strives to provide a historical overview of the American/Bahamian culture by educating and exposing the public to its rich heritage and traditions. These pillars of the Coconut Grove community have been an integral part in upholding the mission of the Miami/Bahamas Goombay Festival and deserve to be recognized: MayBelle Berry, Elizabeth Daniels, Thelma A. Gibson, Beatrice F. Johnson, Mary B. McCray, Delois McGriff, Hattie Mattox, Hattie M. Nelms, Ethel R. Phillip, and Dr. George A. Simpson. Since the 19th century, Bahamians have played a significant role in the City of Miami representing one third of the registered signatories needed for the city's incorporation. Their rich Bahamian heritage has been preserved throughout the years with the support of individuals like the 39th Miami/Bahamas Goombay Festival honorees. Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring these living legends of Coconut Grove`s rich history.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Madam Speaker, from the 24th District of the great State of Florida, I rise today to honor Fredrika S. Brown, Leona Cooper, and Herb Hiller who have served on the board of the Miami/ Bahamas Goombay Festival since its inception. The Miami/Bahamas Goombay Festival is a celebration of cultural expression embracing the legacy of Miami's Bahamian-rooted community known as Coconut Grove. The three-day celebration strives to provide a historical overview of the American/Bahamian culture by educating and exposing the public to its rich heritage and traditions. The Miami/Bahamas Goombay Festival in Coconut Grove is dedicated to recognizing, promoting and educating the residents of Miami-Dade County and tourists about the rich Bahamian and American Heritage and what makes this such a unique and positive blend. The board strives to provide a historical overview of the Bahamian Culture, the commemoration of the early Coconut Grove settlers, and to introduce their music, native food specialties, artifacts, and crafts that are indigenous of the island. The Miami/Bahamas Goombay Festival is held to bring about unity and bridge a cultural gap by building communities through the understanding of each other's likenesses and differences. Since 1977, the Miami/Bahamas Goombay Festival has celebrated the Bahamian culture of Miami-Dade County. The festival would not be possible without the hard work of the board who has stayed the course. I salute this effort and I am thankful to the Goombay Festival committee for keeping the rich culture of our Bahamian ancestors alive in Miami.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Madam Speaker, from the 24th District of the great State of Florida, I rise today to honor Jawan Strader, Emmy award winning television news anchor. A native of Indianapolis, Indiana, Jawan Strader is an Emmy award- winning journalist and anchor of NBC 6 News South Florida and host of Voices with Jawan Strader, a community affairs show dedicated to the black community and the disenfranchised. Bringing more than 20 years of experience covering the most impactful stories, Jawan Strader has reached into the homes of South Floridians, touching their hearts and lives. Mr. Strader has won a number of Emmy awards, including one for anchoring and his coverage of the heartbreaking Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School massacre in Parkland, Florida. He also covered the Hollywood Hills nursing home deaths of 12 senior citizens following Hurricane Irma and his field anchoring has taken him to Havana, Cuba for President Obama's visit; Orlando for the Pulse nightclub shooting. He was the only South Florida anchor covering the shooting of Black church members in Charleston, South Carolina. In 2018, the Miami New Times recognized Strader as the Best News Anchor in South Florida. In 2016, Strader received the Media Excellence award from CCNN Live for Best News Anchor. He has also received the award of distinction for Media Coverage of Public Education by the education fund of Miami-Dade. Legacy Magazine named Strader one of South Florida's most powerful and influential black people. Mr. Strader is a long time Role Model in the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project. He is also a mentor to a number of young journalists and member of the National Association of Black journalists, 100 Black Men of South Florida, and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. He received his Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from Indiana University Bloomington.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Madam Speaker, from the 24th District of the great State of Florida, I rise today to recognize Dr. Barbara Carey- Shuler, a courageous community leader, dedicated public servant, sagacious mentor, inspiring educator, and loving mother, in honor of a street being named in her honor. Dr. Carey-Shuler has been a powerful force for positive change in South Florida for decades. She is a trailblazer who has paved the way for many successful professionals, entrepreneurs, and businesses. Her efforts have improved the quality of life for thousands of South Floridians. Dr. Carey-Shuler's life is founded on a spirit of generosity. Her unselfish character is only overshadowed by her loving spirit and acceptance of others. She considers her ability to empower and inspire others as her greatest accomplishment. Regarding her passion for helping young people she says, ``I want to exude my passion so that they will have the same passion to give back and help other young people.'' Dr. Carey-Shuler was first appointed to the Miami Dade County Board of Commissioners in 1979. She made a major impact through her progressive policies and legislative decisions. She initiated the groundbreaking legislation to create Affirmative Action and set-aside programs in Miami Dade County which are credited with creating more jobs and opportunities for minorities and women than any other legislation in the county's history. She also created the 15 miles per hour school zone in Dade County and was later adopted by the rest of the State of Florida. She made history in 2002 when she was selected as the first African American woman to serve as chairperson of the Miami Dade County Commission. Dr. Carey-Shuler has never shied away from an opportunity to help others or promote equality without regard to the popularity of her decisions. In 1990, she attended an event where the late South African President Nelson Mandela delivered a speech upon his release after being unjustly imprisoned for 27 years. The event was locally controversial but Dr. Carey-Shuler was among a small group of elected officials who attended because she understood President Mandela's importance to the international campaign for human rights. Her courage and vision earned the respect and admiration of her constituents and was a large part of the reason she was re-elected several times. Above all, Dr. Carey-Shuler values education as the key to a happy and healthy life. She was well-regarded as an administrator with Miami Dade County Public Schools. She was also credited with inspiring and advancing the careers of dozens of educators as an assistant superintendent. She has an impressive educational resume of her own; Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Florida A&M University, Master of Science in Communications from Ohio State University, Specialist Degree in Guidance from the University of Miami, and a Doctorate in Education from the University of Florida. Since retiring from elected office in 2005, Dr. Carey-Shuler has managed very successful family-owned funeral homes in Palm Beach County, Florida. However, she has continued her passion to help others and mentor young people. Her board memberships include Spady Cultural Heritage Museum, West Palm Beach Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Delta Heritage Foundation, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Educational Foundation, Pathway to Prosperity, among several others. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues and all Americans to please join me in recognizing a great woman, a great public servant, a great businessperson, a great mother, and a great American, Dr. Barbara Carey-Shuler for her indelible contribution to our community and our Nation.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Madam Speaker, from the 24th District of the great State of Florida, I rise today to honor Denise Landman for her stellar service and contributions as Commissioner of the City of Aventura. Someone once said this about local government, ``when you are in local government, you are on the ground, and you are looking into the eyes and hearts of the people you are there to serve. It teaches you to listen; it teaches you to be expansive in the people with whom you talk to; and that engagement gives you political judgment.'' It is this same standard of leadership and approach that has distinguished her success at the City of Aventura. With input given from passionate public servants like Commissioner Landman, Aventura is certain to have a bright future guided by a grounded approach to local governance, cooperation, and investment in the well-being of this community achieved during her tenure in office as a Commissioner. Madam Speaker please join me in honoring Commissioner Denise Landman for the completion of her term in office, her time, her commitment, and outstanding contribution representing the residents of the City Aventura.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Madam Speaker, from the 24th District of the great State of Florida, I rise today to honor Marc Narotsky for his stellar service and contributions as Commissioner of the City of Aventura. Someone once said this about local government, ``when you are in local government, you are on the ground, and you are looking into the eyes and hearts of the people you are there to serve. It teaches you to listen; it teaches you to be expansive in the people with whom you talk to; and that engagement gives you political judgment.'' It is this same standard of leadership and approach that has distinguished his success at the City of Aventura. With input given from passionate public servants like Commissioner Narotsky, Aventura is certain to have a bright future guided by a grounded approach to local governance, cooperation, and investment in the well-being of this community achieved during his tenure in office as a Commissioner. Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring Commissioner Marc Narotsky for the completion of his term in office, his time, his commitment, and outstanding contribution representing the residents of the City Aventura.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Madam Speaker, from the 24th District of the great State of Florida, I rise today to honor Enid Weisman for her stellar service and contributions as Mayor of the City of Aventura. Someone once said this about local government, ``when you are in local government, you are on the ground, and you are looking into the eyes and hearts of the people you are there to serve. It teaches you to listen; it teaches you to be expansive in the people with whom you talk to; and that engagement gives you political judgment.'' It is this same standard of leadership and approach that has distinguished her success at the City of Aventura. With input given from passionate public servants like Mayor Weisman, Aventura is certain to have a bright future guided by a grounded approach to local governance, cooperation, and investment in the well-being of this community achieved during her tenure in office as a mayor. Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring Mayor Enid Weisman for the completion of her term in office, her time, her commitment, and outstanding contribution representing the residents of the City Aventura.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today, as the first Bahamian American elected to Congress, to honor and welcome Philip Davis the newly elected Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of the Bahamas. Philip Edward ``Brave'' Davis was born on June 7, 1951, in Nassau, Bahamas, the oldest of eight children born to Dorothy and Brave Edward Davis. Mr. Davis received his primary education at the Old Bight All Age School on Cat Island while living with his grandparents. After returning to Nassau, he went on to receive an education at the Eastern Junior & Senior Schools, and at St. John's College in New Providence. Prime Minister Davis is perhaps best known now as a politician, serving as Leader of the Progressive Liberal Party, and Member of Parliament for Cat Island, Rum Cay and San Salvador. However, he entered politics late in life. Professionally, he is known both locally and internationally as an acclaimed Corporate and Human Rights lawyer, a highly distinguished legal educator, a passionate sportsperson, a sponsor of many sporting activities, and a Toastmaster. After a brief stint in banking, he articled as a Law Clerk in the Law Chambers of Wallace Whitfield & Barnwell. His appointment as Queen's Counsel, the highest possible honor which is conferred on those practicing law in the English legal system anywhere in the world, came in recognition of both his highly successful legal practice, but also his contribution to legal education. A leading litigation lawyer, Philip `Brave' Davis has an impressive record in the Courts of Appeal, with perhaps more appearances before the UK Privy Council than any other Bahamian lawyer. A former Member of the Council of Legal Education for CARICOM, he has made an unprecedented contribution to legal education in the Caribbean region. Mr. Davis twice served as Vice-President of the Bar Council before becoming President of the Bahamas Bar Association in 1995. Since 2002, he has been Managing Partner of the law firm which bears his name: Davis & Co. In 1970 Mr. Davis became a Member of Toastmaster Club 1600, a nonprofit organization established to develop leadership skills through listening, thinking, and speaking. He served as its President in 1979, and as Division Governor of Toastmasters for The Bahamas in 1989. A keen sportsman interested in baseball, softball, swimming, and athletics. Mr. Davis served as Vice-President of the Bahamas Swim Federation from 1986 to 1990 and was President of the Sea Bees Swim Club from 1980 to 1990. Mr. Davis has the love and support of his caring wife, Ann-Marie Davis. They have six children who have inherited their father's passion for sports, hard work and patriotism, which led them to represent the Bahamas at the Caribbean Free Trade Association (CARIFTA) Games. During the last administration of the Progressive Liberal Party, from 2012 to 2017, Mr. Davis ran a super-ministry, the Ministry of Works. His portfolio covered everything relating to the physical infrastructure of The Bahamas, as well as oversight of Bahamasair, BEC, and the Water & Sewerage Corporation. Since May 2017, he has been Leader of the Progressive Liberal Party. On September 16th, he was elected the fifth Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, where he also serves as Minister of Finance.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today, as the first Bahamian American elected to Congress, to honor and welcome Curt G. Hollingsworth as the newly appointed Consul General of the Bahamas in Miami. Consul General Hollingsworth migrated to Miami when he was young, and he is a product of the Miami-Dade County Public School System. He graduated from Miami Carol City High School, and he received his Associates of Arts degree from Miami Dade Community College. He went on to receive a Bachelor of Arts degree in Educational Psychology from Cambridge University. A native of West End Grand Bahama, Consul General Hollingsworth is a seasoned educator with nearly four decades of experience as a teacher, track and field and basketball coach, mentor, and administrator. He is known in the Marco City community as an activist with a mission towards the advancement of young people. Mr. Hollingsworth has had the love and support of his caring wife, Caroline Hollingsworth, for more than 45 years. They are the proud parents of 5 children; 4 sons and 1 daughter. Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring the Honorable Curt G. Hollingsworth as he returns to Miami as the Consul General of Bahamas.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Michael A. Finney, the first Black President & CEO of the Miami-Dade Beacon Council. He is newly inducted into 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project and is the recipient of the 2022 5000 Role Models of Excellence Martin L. King, Jr. Breaking the Glass Ceiling Award. Mr. Finney guides the official economic development partnership for Miami-Dade County focusing on job creation and economic growth. This is the first time that an African American has had the top role in championing the county's effort to market itself as a world class business destination. Mr. Finney has led the organization since 2017. The Miami-Dade Beacon Council serves as the official economic development organization for Miami-Dade County. The not-for-profit public-private partnership focuses on job creation and economic growth. Since 1985, the organization has assisted more than 1,200 businesses that have created more than 74,000 jobs and added more than $6.7 billion in new capital investments. It accomplishes this by marketing Miami-Dade as a world- class business location, growing local companies and entrepreneurs and shaping the local economy's future. The Council engages local, national, and international audiences when facilitating business growth and expansion. Prior to his current role, Mr. Finney served as president and chief executive officer for Community Ventures Resources Inc. in Ann Arbor, Michigan, served as senior adviser for economic growth for the State of Michigan's Governor Rick Snyder and as president and chief executive officer of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. Mr. Finney is a member of the boards of directors of the Miami Branch of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, the Miami Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired, the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce, Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau, Saginaw Valley State University Foundation, and the Florida Memorial University's Social Justice Institute Advisory Board. He received his Bachelor of Business Administration from Saginaw Valley State University and an MA in human resources from Central Michigan University.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Rudolph Moise as he expands his practice to include Comprehensive Medical Aesthetics in Miami, Florida. Dr. Moise was born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. As a tenacious 17-year old, he migrated to the United States, and he received a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago and a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from the Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine before obtaining a federal medical grant to train for four years at a Miami clinic that served Haitian refugees. Dr. Moise's thirst for knowledge coupled with his passion for service inspired to continue this great work. In 1985, he began his private practice in a small storefront in North Miami, which eventually became Comprehensive Health Center, his current medical practice. His passion for learning and dedication to his community led him to earn a law degree and MBA. Dr. Moise never practiced law, but the knowledge he gained assists him to navigate the legal aspect of medicine. His desire to give back to America led him to become a flight surgeon in the Air Force Reserve where he served for 21 years and earned the rank of Colonel, the highest ranking American of Haitian descent to hold such a position. As a native of Haiti, he is an advocate for improving the welfare of his country. In 2003, he was appointed by Gov. Jeb Bush to serve on the Governor's Haiti Advisory Group as part of an effort to advance the economic development and resources in Haiti. Dr. Moise has received numerous leadership accolades over the years, including being named a top finalist for ``Best Physician of the Year'' by the South Florida Business Journal. Among his other notable service awards is the 2012 Dorothy Shula Outstanding Volunteerism Award from the United Way of Miami Dade County, as well as the MCCJ Humanitarian of the Year Award. He formerly served as the president of the Dade County Medical Association and chairman of the Jackson Health Foundation. Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring Dr. Rudolph Moise as he develops his practice to consist of Comprehensive Medical Aesthetics.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Monica R. Richardson, executive editor of the Miami Herald. Richardson, who is the first black person to serve in this role in the publication's 117 year history. She also oversees el Nuevo Herald and the Bradenton Herald, and serves as McClatchy's Florida regional editor. Ms. Richardson is the recipient of the 2022 5000 Role Models of Excellence Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Breaking the Glass Ceiling Award. Her historic January 1, 2021 appointment as executive editor was made during a critical period in American history when, in the aftermath of the cruel and senseless murder of George Floyd. millions of people across the nation experienced a racial reckoning that led to cries for diversity, equity, and inclusion in all facets of life. Nearly 6 months after Mr. Floyd's death, she received a racist email from a reader that included derogatory and misogynistic slurs targeting her. Rather than sweep it under the rug, Richardson chose to address the email in a column and open a dialogue with Miami. ``Miami, who are we in times of challenge? Who are we right now? How are you using your voice?'' she wrote. A native of Charlottesville, Virginia, Richardson is a seasoned journalist and editor. Over the course of her 30-year career, she has worked at the Charlottesville Observer, Florida Times-Union, and the Lexington Herald-Leader. She joined McClatchy after spending 15 years at the Atlanta Journal-Constitution as the newspaper's digital managing editor and senior managing editor. In a statement announcing Richardson's appointment as the Miami Herald's top editor, Kristin Roberts, McClatchy's senior vice president of news, praised her ``strong record of leadership in local journalism at one the great metro newsrooms in the country.'' Richardson has been a champion for diversity and inclusion in newsrooms. She has served as a leader for various journalism industry associations and as a juror to the national Pulitzer Prize board. A graduate of Old Dominion University, Richardson enjoys mentoring young journalists and seasoned professionals. She also is an advocate for foster care and adoption and adopted her daughter in 2014. Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring Monica Richardson for using her position as executive editor to give voice to stories that might otherwise not be told.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Madam Speaker, from the 24th District of the great state of Florida, I rise today to recognize and honor the late Mr. Langston Longley, Sr., a beloved husband, father, and friend. Whereas, Langston O. Longley was born in Nassau, Bahamas. His youth was filled with many activities and organizations, including the Boys Brigade, church and athletics. He came to Miami at an early age and lived in the greater Miami area for over 40 years; and Whereas, Mr. Longley furthered his education in Miami, graduating from Miami Dade Community College, University of Miami & Barry University in Real Estate Business/Marketing Programs. He successfully completed the required courses and training for the American Real Estate University, earning the designation of Certified REO Specialist (CREO) which better equipped him to utilize his real estate knowledge to assist those in critical need; and Whereas, for nearly four decades, Mr. Longley served Dade and Broward counties as a licensed Realtor. He was an experienced Real Estate Developer, having built and sold single family homes. He also provided rental housing for Miami-Dade Section Eight and Moderate Rehab clients for over 25 years; and Whereas, Mr. Longley was an active member in several cultural/ community organizations. He was a mentor with the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project, appointed to the Miami-Dade Housing Program Landlord Advisory Council, a member of Dade and Broward Real Estate Investment Associations as well as a longtime member of the National Association of the Bahamas. Mr, Longley served as Chairman of St. Mary's Wesleyan Methodist Church as Trustee Chairman for over 20 years; and Whereas, Mr. Longley was immensely proud of his Bahamian heritage. He was a Bahamian Junkanoo Musician and Costume Maker. He was the co- leader and founder of the Bahamas Junkanoo Revue of Miami, which performs the colorful Bahamian masquerade tradition throughout the United States. For decades, Langston served as a cultural bridge between the United States and the Bahamas promoting junkanoo all across the United States; and Whereas, Mr. Longley leaves behind to cherish his precious memory: his lovely wife of 50 years Lula; his three children; seven adorable grandchildren; and numerous relatives and friends; 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 late Mr. Langston Longley, Sr. for his commitment, dedication, and service to our community.