Frederica Wilson

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and pay tribute to Demetres L. Parrish, a co-founder and membership chairwoman of the Miami, Florida Chapter of Sisters Network Incorporated. In 2011, Ms. Parrish, an advocate for breast cancer awareness joined with three breast cancer survivors to found the Miami Chapter of Sisters Network, Inc., a national African-American breast cancer survivorship organization. Its mission is to address the needs particular to African-American women, the underinsured and the underserved around the country by getting the message out that ``we must stop the silence about breast cancer so women can start beating the odds.'' The organization has since provided a strong support group for hundreds of women with breast cancer and survivors in South Florida. Experts estimate that about one out of every eight women born today will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some time during her life. The strongest risk factor for breast cancer is age. A woman's risk of developing this disease increases as she gets older. However, thanks to the work Ms. Parrish is doing and improvements in cancer treatment and early detection, millions of women and thousands of men are surviving breast cancer today. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States, other than skin cancer. It is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, after lung cancer. The disease occurs almost entirely in women, but men can get it, too. Today, there are more than 2.9 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. I am honored to recognize Demetres L. Parrish, a co-founder and membership Chairwoman of the Miami Chapter of Sisters Network, for her dedication and commitment to our community and the fight against breast cancer.

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 Mr. Leonard Burgess was appointed on June 8, 2014 to the position of Police Chief for the North Miami Police Department in Miami-Dade County Florida. I include in the Record the following proclamation: Whereas, Chief Burgess is a long-standing and progressive law enforcement officer well suited to lead North Miami Police Department. Having started his law enforcement career in North Miami Florida in 1984, he spent the past 29 years amassing, diversifying and refining his professional qualifications and his personal attributes; Whereas, during his 20-year tenure with the Miami-Dade Police Department, Chief Burgess diligently and effectively served in numerous capacities, during this period he advanced from the rank of police officer to the position of Division Chief, where he was responsible for managing and supervising hundreds of personnel; Whereas, from October of 2006 through December 2006, Chief Burgess was appointed and served as interim Director of the Miami-Dade Corrections and Rehabilitation Department. Later, again he responded to the call for service when he was requested and voluntarily returned as the Department's Deputy Director; Whereas, as the father of three children, Chief Burgess takes great pride in sharing his wisdom with young people to positively contribute to their growth and development. Chief Burgess has maintained a commitment and has worked tirelessly for more than 15 years to assist children serving as a mentor with and through the 5000 Role Model of Excellence Program; Whereas, prior to his serving the South Florida communities of Miami-Dade County and North Miami Florida, Chief Burgess proudly served his Country in the United States Marine Corps and was honorably discharged after service was complete; 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 Chief Leonard Burgess for his dedication to his profession, and his commitment to serve others and maintain a pledge to commitment and to personal involvement and assuming leadership roles.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a South Florida philanthropist and public servant, Attorney Larry R. Handfield, who is the first graduate of Bethune-Cookman University, located in Daytona Beach, Florida, to have two on-campus buildings named in his honor, the ``Dr. Larry R. Handfield Athletic Training Center'' and the ``Dr. Larry R. Handfield Music Building.'' Attorney Handfield is a nationally known trial lawyer who has received national recognition for his work within the judicial system. He has been appointed to three statewide commission posts by three different Governors. He was first appointed to the Statewide Sentencing Guideline Commission by Governor Robert Martinez. Florida Governor Lawton Chiles appointed Attorney Handfield to the Judicial Nominating Commission for the Miami-Dade County Court System. And his third appointment was to the post of State Commissioner to the Statewide Ethics Commission by Florida Governor Charlie Crist. Mr. Handfield is currently Chairman of the Board of Bethune-Cookman University, and he is the first of its graduates to hold the position. Attorney Handfield received his bachelor's degree from Bethune- Cookman University and then rcceived the degree of Juris Doctor from Howard University, School of Law, located in Washington, D.C. The degree of Doctor of Law was later conferred on by Bethune-Cookman University. Mr. Handfield has worked as a Federal Prosecutor, and as a State Prosecutor under former United States Attorney General, Janet Reno. Mr. Handfield's accomplishments are too numerous to count, and he has truly lived up to his motto: ``Service is the price we pay for the space we occupy on this earth.'' Please join me in honoring and recognizing Attorney Larry R. Handfield for his dedication and commitment to his community, family and friends.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and pay tribute to Catherine A. Minnis, a strong and well-known advocate for breast cancer awareness in South Florida. In 2006, Ms. Minnis overcame a cancer scare when a lump found by her doctor turned out to be benign. That same year, a former boss died from breast cancer. Shortly thereafter, Ms. Minnis joined the Dade-Monroe Unit of The American Cancer Society and was named Volunteer of the Year for her activism in the fight against breast cancer and for raising nearly 400,000 dollars for cancer research. A coffee-table book with stories from breast cancer survivors written by Ms. Minnis to empower, educate and encourage women with breast cancer and breast cancer survivors, will be released in November of 2012. Experts estimate that about one out of every eight women born today will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some time during her life. The strongest risk factor for breast cancer is age. A woman's risk of developing this disease increases as she gets older. However, thanks to the work Ms. Minnis is doing and improvements in cancer treatment and early detection, millions of women and thousands of men are surviving breast cancer today. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States, other than skin cancer. It is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, after lung cancer. The disease occurs almost entirely in women, but men can get it, too. Today, there are more than 2.9 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. I am honored to recognize Catherine A. Minnis, a long-term advocate for breast cancer awareness, for her dedication and commitment to our community and the fight against breast cancer.

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 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; Whereas, the proud people who, through uncertainty and tough economic times, remained steadfast and determined to build a brighter future after their hard-fought independence, showed great strength and unwavering will; 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 arts & humanities, business, activism, 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 the late Mrs. Jeanet Grayson, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, daughter, friend, and a 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 seventeen children, sixty- eight grandchildren, sixty-three great grandchildren, ten great-great grandchildren, two brothers, two nephews, two nieces, two great nephews, one great niece, two Godchildren, three adopted daughters, seven sisters-in-law and six brothers-in-law; Whereas, Mrs. Grayson was entrusted with the lives of hundreds of school 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; Whereas, Mrs. Grayson was a founder of The Road Runners, an organization of Southwest Transportation; 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, 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 the late Mr. Clarance Patterson, a devoted public servant, union representative, husband, father and friend. I include in the Record the following proclamation: Whereas, Mr. Patterson's career as a Waste Management expert, City Manager and Union Representative spanned sixty years; Whereas, Mr. Patterson held the position of Superintendent of the Department of Solid Waste for Metropolitan Dade County, was appointed the first Black director for the City of Miami's Solid Waste Department and held the position of Assistant Manager for the city of Miami; Whereas, Mr. Patterson also served as City Manager for the cities of North Miami and Opa Locka; Assistant City Manager of Miami Springs, Director of Solid Waste and Public Works; and Director of Public Works for the city of South Miami; Whereas, Mr. Patterson was an advocate for city, county and state employees and served as an international staff representative for the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFL-CIO) for seven years; Whereas, Mr. Patterson was a faithful and active member of the King of Hearts and the Kiwanis Club, Greater Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church and Universal Truth Center; 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 Mr. Clarance ``Pat'' Patterson for his unwavering commitment and dedication to his family, his church, and our community.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, as a descendant of Caribbeans, to recognize National Caribbean American Heritage Month and the countless contributions made to South Florida by Caribbeans and their descendants. National Caribbean American Heritage Month reminds us of the diversity of the people and cultures that make South Florida great and like no other community in the world. Let us remember the early Caribbean immigrants who helped build and settle South Florida. Let us pay tribute to the Caribbean Americans in South Florida who helped shape the American dream and continue to work to make it accessible to all who seek it and its promise of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Let us be proud of the contributions made by Caribbean Americans to education, business, the arts and politics. Let us mark National Caribbean American Heritage Month by supporting individuals and organizations that continue to build upon the foundation of economic inclusion and equal rights. While there are countless shining examples of groups and organizations working to improve the quality of life for all South Floridians, I include in the Record the Caribbean organizations listed below for their commitment and dedication to making a difference in our community: Association of Caribbean Law Students, Caribbean Bar Association, Caribbean Students Association (FIU), Caribbean Today, and Caribbean-American Visual Cultural Preservation.

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 Reverend Nigel Leon Lovell-Martin, dedicated servant of God, respected spiritual leader, educator, and community activist, who is celebrating 25 years as the Pastor of Myrtle Grove Presbyterian Church in Miami, Florida. I include in the Record the following proclamation: Whereas, Reverend Lovell-Martin is credited with bringing stability to struggling Myrtle Grove Presbyterian Church, when he became pastor in 1997, and building, over the past 25 years, a sound foundation for the church that is supported by loyal and dedicated members; Whereas, Reverend Lovell-Martin has initiated numerous successful ministries at the church that tackle issues facing youth and adults, the poor and the homeless; Whereas, Reverend Lovell-Martin is an adjunct professor at Florida Atlantic University, holds a Ph.D., a Masters, and several other degrees in Education and raises money yearly for scholarships to help students further their education; Whereas, Reverend Lovell-Martin served the Presbyterian Church in various capacities including as commissioner to the 214th and the 219th General Assemblies, commissioner to the 11th stated meeting of the Synod of South Atlantic, presbytery staff and moderator, and Committee/Commissioner on Ministry moderator; 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 Reverend Doctor Nigel Leon Lovell-Martin on his 25th anniversary as pastor of Myrtle Grove Presbyterian Church, for his commitment to God, his congregation and our community.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and pay tribute to Karol Toomer, a breast cancer survivor and secretary of Miami, Florida, Chapter of Sisters Network Incorporated. Ms. Toomer was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008. In September of 2012, Ms. Toomer, who has been a strong advocate for breast cancer awareness, became the Secretary for the Miami Chapter of Sisters Network, Inc., a national African-American breast cancer survivorship organization. Its mission is to address the needs particular to African-American women, the underinsured and the underserved around the country by getting the message out that ``we must stop the silence about breast cancer so women can start beating the odds.'' The organization has since provided a strong support group for hundreds of women with breast cancer, as well as survivors in South Florida. Experts estimate that about one out of every eight women born today will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some time during her life. The strongest risk factor for breast cancer is age. A woman's risk of developing this disease increases as she gets older. However, thanks to the work Ms. Toomer is doing and improvements in cancer treatment and early detection, millions of women and thousands of men are surviving breast cancer today. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States, other than skin cancer. It is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, after lung cancer. The disease occurs almost entirely in women, but men can get it, too. Today, there are more than 2.9 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. I am honored to recognize Karol Toomer, a breast cancer survivor and secretary of the Miami Chapter of Sisters Network, for her dedication and commitment to our community and the fight against breast cancer.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and pay tribute to LaRhonda Lampkin Sharp, a breast cancer survivor, and co- founder and treasurer of the Miami, Florida, Chapter of Sisters Network Incorporated. Mrs. Sharp was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2007. In 2011, she and four other breast cancer survivors founded the Miami Chapter of Sisters Network, Inc., a national African-American breast cancer survivorship organization. Its mission is to address the needs particular to African-American women, the underinsured and the underserved around the country by getting the message out that ``we must stop the silence about breast cancer so women can start beating the odds.'' The organization has since provided a strong support group for hundreds of women with breast cancer, as well as survivors in South Florida. Experts estimate that about one out of every eight women born today will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some time during her life. The strongest risk factor for breast cancer is age. A woman's risk of developing this disease increases as she gets older. However, thanks to the work Mrs. Sharp is doing and improvements in cancer treatment and early detection, millions of women and thousands of men are surviving breast cancer today. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States, other than skin cancer. It is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, after lung cancer. The disease occurs almost entirely in women, but men can get it, too. Today, there are more than 2.9 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. I am honored to recognize LaRhonda Lampkin Sharp, a breast cancer survivor and co-founder and treasure of the Miami Chapter of Sisters Network, for her dedication and commitment to our community and the fight against breast cancer.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and pay tribute to Felicia Weatherspoon, a breast cancer survivor and co- founder of the Tenaciously Pink Cancer Support Group at Trinity Church, in Miami Gardens, Florida. Ms. Weatherspoon was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1996. After more than a decade of activism and advocacy for breast cancer awareness, Ms. Weatherspoon helped found the Tenaciously Pink Cancer Support Group, in May of 2012. The support group meets every fourth Sunday. Its mission is to provide spiritual one-on-one support to people undergoing treatment for cancer and comfort the patients, care givers, and their families. Tenaciously Pink also hopes to enable cancer patients/ survivors and supporters to look beyond the diagnoses to cope with treatments and resume living life to its fullest. Experts estimate that about one out of every eight women born today will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some time during her life. The strongest risk factor for breast cancer is age. A woman's risk of developing this disease increases as she gets older. However, thanks to the work Ms. Weatherspoon is doing and improvements in cancer treatment and early detection, millions of women and thousands of men are surviving breast cancer today. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States, other than skin cancer. It is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, after lung cancer. The disease occurs almost entirely in women, but men can get it, too. Today, there are more than 2.9 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. I am honored to recognize Felicia Weatherspoon, a breast cancer survivor and co-founder of The Tenaciously Pink Support Groups, for her dedication and commitment to our community and the fight against breast cancer.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and pay tribute to Edith Morgan, founder of the Mom-2-Mom 58 Foundation, in Miami, Florida, a support group for mothers that focuses on issues such as breast cancer, child safety and empowerment, juvenile delinquency, domestic violence and many other topics. The Mom-2-Mom 58 Foundation is a non-profit faith-based organization that was born out of the tragic death of the late Kansas City Chief linebacker Derrick Thomas on February 8, 2000. Thomas' death was the result of a car accident; he was not wearing a seatbelt. His mother, Mrs. Morgan, felt a pressing need to get the word out to other mothers about the importance of training our children in the use of seat belts. She also realized there were other issues she wanted to address, wherein she could be of service to the community. In 2006, the Mom-2-Mom 58 Foundation started a breast cancer support group, and each year holds a fundraising walk and spa day for women with breast cancer and survivors. The goal is to empower and to encourage women with breast cancer and survivors of breast cancer. Experts estimate that about one out of every eight women born today will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some time during her life. The strongest risk factor for breast cancer is age. A woman's risk of developing this disease increases as she gets older. However, thanks to the work Mrs. Morgan is doing and improvements in cancer treatment and early detection, millions of women and thousands of men are surviving breast cancer today. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States, other than skin cancer. It is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, after lung cancer. The disease occurs almost entirely in women, but men can get it, too. Today, there are more than 2.9 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. I am honored to recognize Edith Morgan, founder of the Mom-2-Mom 58 Foundation, for her dedication and commitment to our community and the fight against breast cancer.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and pay tribute to Patricia Johnson, a breast cancer survivor, and co-founder of the Tenaciously Pink Cancer Support Group at Trinity Church, in Miami Gardens, Florida. Ms. Johnson was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008. After many years of activism and an advocacy for breast cancer awareness, Ms. Johnson helped found the Tenaciously Pink Cancer Support Group in May of 2012. The support group meets every fourth Sunday. Its mission is to provide spiritual one-on-one support to people undergoing treatment for cancer and comfort the patients, care givers, and their families. Tenaciously Pink also hopes to enable cancer patients/survivors and supporters to look beyond the diagnoses, cope with treatments, and resume living life to its fullest. Experts estimate that about one out of every eight women born today will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some time during her life. The strongest risk factor for breast cancer is age. A woman's risk of developing this disease increases as she gets older. However, thanks to the work Ms. Johnson is doing and improvements in cancer treatment and early detection, millions of women and thousands of men are surviving breast cancer today. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States, other than skin cancer. It is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, after lung cancer. The disease occurs almost entirely in women, but men can get it, too, Today, there are more than 2.9 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. I am honored to recognize Patricia Johnson, a breast cancer survivor and co-founder of the Tenaciously Pink Support Groups, for her dedication and commitment to our community and the fight against breast cancer.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and pay tribute to Adrian B. McClenney, a breast cancer survivor and co-founder and president of the Miami, Florida, Chapter of Sisters Network Incorporated. Mrs. McClenney was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2011. During treatment and her search to find support, she learned about Sisters Network, Inc., a national African-American breast cancer survivorship organization. Its mission is to address the needs particular to African-American women, the underinsured and the underserved around the country by getting the message out that ``we must stop the silence about breast cancer so women can start beating the odds.'' Mrs. McClenney contacted the organization and was so moved by their support and encouragement that in 2012, she and three other breast cancer survivors founded the Miami Chapter of Sisters Network. The organization has since provided a strong support group for hundreds of women with breast cancer, as well as survivors in South Florida. Experts estimate that about one out of every eight women born today will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some time during her life. The strongest risk factor for breast cancer is age. A woman's risk of developing this disease increases as she gets older. However, thanks to the work Mrs. McClenney is doing and improvements in cancer treatment and early detection, millions of women and thousands of men are surviving breast cancer today. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States. other than skin cancer. It is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, after lung cancer. The disease occurs almost entirely in women, but men can get it, too. Today, there are more than 2.9 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. I am honored to recognize Adrian B. McClenney, a breast cancer survivor and co-founder and president of the Miami Chapter of Sisters Network, for her dedication and commitment to our community and the fight against breast cancer.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and pay tribute to Andrea Ivory, a breast cancer survivor and the founder of The Women's Breast Health Initiative (WBHI) in Hialeah, Florida. Ms. Ivory was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2006. While she was fortunate that her breast cancer was detected early and that she had insurance and access to doctors, she knew that many other women did not. To better the odds for at-risk women with fewer resources, she founded the Women's Breast Health Initiative in 2008. WBHI is an outreach organization dedicated to educating women about the importance of breast health and providing them with the resources to beat the disease. Since it was founded, WBHI has delivered literature to 50,000 households and by use of a mammography van, the organization has provided free breast cancer screening for thirteen hundred women. For her contributions to the fight against breast cancer, Ms. Ivory was named Cable News Network's (CNN) Hero, in 2009. CNN ``Heroes'' is a tribute to ordinary people changing the world. Experts estimate that about one out of every eight women born today will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some time during her life. The strongest risk factor for breast cancer is age. A woman's risk of developing this disease increases as she gets older. However, thanks the work Ms. Ivory is doing and improvements in cancer treatment and early detection, millions of women and thousands of men are surviving breast cancer today. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States, other than skin cancer. It is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, after lung cancer. The disease occurs almost entirely in women, but men can get it, too. Today, there are more than 2.9 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. I am honored to recognize Andrea Ivory, a breast cancer survivor and founder of The Women's Breast Health Initiative, for her dedication and commitment to our community.

Ms. WILSON of Florida

Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and pay tribute to Vice Mayor Felicia M. Brunson, chairman of West Park Relay For Life, in West Park, Florida. Relay For Life is the main volunteer- driven cancer fundraising event of the American Cancer Society. Vice Mayor Brunson lost her grandmother to breast cancer in 1996. In 2006 she formed West Park Relay For Life. Through community-based fundraising and little corporate sponsorship, West Park Relay For Life has raised more than $150,000 in the fight against breast cancer. In 2010, Vice Mayor Brunson was the driving force behind the City of West Park designating the third week in October as ``Paint the City Pink Week.'' Experts estimate that about one out of every eight women born today will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some time during her life. The strongest risk factor for breast cancer is age. A woman's risk of developing this disease increases as she gets older. However, thanks to improvements in cancer treatment and early detection, millions of women and thousands of men are surviving breast cancer today. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States, other than skin cancer. It is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, after lung cancer. The disease occurs almost entirely in women, but men can get it, too. Today, there are more than 2.9 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. I am honored to recognize Vice Mayor Felicia M. Brunson for her dedication and commitment to empowering women in the fight against breast cancer.

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 pay tribute to Mrs. Dorothy Wright Edwards, a beloved and well-respected educator, mentor, a trail blazer and pioneer for women in the field of Physical Education, and a lifelong community servant. I include in the Record the following proclamation: Whereas, Mrs. Edwards is receiving one of the highest honors bestowed in the renaming of the student services area at Miami Northwestern Senior High School to the Dorothy Edwards Student Services Center; Whereas, during her tenure with Miami-Dade Northwestern Senior High School, Mrs. Edwards was a business teacher, all- girls dean and later became the school's assistant principal from 1955 until her retirement in 1971; Whereas, Mrs. Edwards was the second female physical education teacher hired by the Miami-Dade County Public School System and was also a teacher, counselor and administrator for students at Booker T. Washington High and Dorsey Elementary Schools; Whereas, Mrs. Edwards, an advocate for education and physical fitness, is recognized in Who's Who in American Education, and received the Florida State Teacher Award from the Florida State Chamber of Commerce in 1966 and 1977; Whereas, Mrs. Edwards, a graduate of Florida A&M College (now University), was inducted into the university's Sports Hall of Fame and has received numerous awards from various 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, am proud to pay tribute to Mrs. Dorothy Wright Edwards for her dedication to education and physical fitness, for her commitment to our students, for her contributions to Miami Northwestern Senior High School and to the Miami-Dade County Public School District and for life-long service 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 late Gregory Blatch, a dedicated, well respected and beloved teacher with Miami-Dade County Public Schools, who was affectionately called ``Coach.'' Coach Blatch was employed with Miami-Dade County Public Schools for 34 years. He spent thirty-three of those years teaching at Ojus Elementary School, where he was an institution. In addition to being an exceptional instructor, Coach Blatch was also a mentor, a motivator and a friend to his students, whom he often referred to as ``my children away from home.'' Coach Blatch participated in and sponsored numerous activities which included student government, the annual Washington D.C. trip, the safety patrol program, Drug Awareness and Resistance Education, and student physical fitness. He was staunch advocate for students' health and safety. Coach Blatch was also heavily involved in the Parent Teacher Association at Ojus Elementary. He donated a great deal of his time orchestrating and participating in fund raisers from carnivals and talent shows to community outreach programs to support the school. Coach Blatch was a graduate of Florida A&M University where he received his Bachelor of Science degree. He received his Master of Science degree from Nova Southeastern University. Coach Blatch was a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. and a thirty-four-year member of the United Teachers of Dade. Please join me in honoring the late Gregory ``Coach'' Blatch for his dedication to education, to our children 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 recognize Sergeant Major Arthur Wells who has been named South Florida Federal Employee of the Year, for his selfless service to our veterans and their families. I include in the Record the following proclamation: Whereas, Sergeant Major Wells is assistant chief of Prosthetics Service at the Bruce W. Carter, Miami VA Healthcare Systems in Miami, Florida, where he has been a compassionate, dedicated and devoted employee for 25 years; Whereas, Sergeant Major Wells has proven himself to be a leader and an advocate for all veterans and has effectively and tirelessly used his expertise to assist 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 task; Whereas, Sergeant Major Wells is the president of two non- profit organizations, the South Florida Chapter of Blacks in Government (BIG) and the Army National Guard Family Support Foundation, which assists deployed soldiers' families with funds to pay bills while the soldier is overseas; Whereas, Sergeant Major Wells has received numerous accolades and awards for outstanding community service which includes helping the elderly, raising money for back-to- school supplies and college scholarships and building homes in Miami's Liberty City and Overtown neighborhoods with Habitat for Humanity; Whereas, Sergeant Major Wells is a decorated, U.S. veteran who served in numerous U.S. operations and conflicts, including the Vietnam Conflict and Operation Iraqi Freedom before his retirement in 2007 which ended 39 years of military service; 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 Arthur Wells for his service to our country and for his dedication and commitment to our veterans, their families 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 recognize the late Pastor Jeffrey N. Hamilton, a faithful-servant of God, an advocate for education, community activist, 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; 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; 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 farther his education and pursed a master's degree in divinity and special education from St. Thomas University and from Nova University; 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, from the 24th District of the great state of Florida, I rise today to recognize the late Mrs. Leome Scavella Culmer, a faithful servant of God, a community, and a beloved mother and friend. I include in the Record the following proclamation: Whereas, Mrs. Leome Scavella Culmer, a native Miamian and product of Miami-Dade County Public Schools, graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in 1944 and later received a bachelor's degree in Secondary Education and English from Bethune Cookman College in 1949; Whereas, Mrs. Culmer was the widow of the Venerable Father John E. Culmer, the rector of St. Agnes Episcopal Church and beloved mother to their five children: Francena Culmer Brooks (deceased), John E. Culmer, XI, Angela M. Culmer, Lona Culmer Shelback and James A. Culmer; Whereas, Mrs. Culmer was a third-generation member of Historic St. Agnes' Episcopal Church where she served as Historian of the parish, President of St. Cecelia's Chapter of the Order of the Daughters of the King/ECW, a Vacation Bible School teacher, a member of the Executive Board of St. Agnes' Branch of the Episcopal Churchwomen and a member of the Parish Council; Whereas, for 21 years Mrs. Culmer served as the Chair of the Program Committee of the African American Committee of Dade Heritage Trust and was an advocate for historic preservation through her words, deeds and actions; 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. Leome Scavella Culmer, 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 recognize the late Mrs. Blanche Simmons, a faithful servant of God, beloved wife, mother and friend. I include in the Record the following proclamation: Whereas, Mrs. Simmons was a strong supporter of parent teacher associations and other school activities that encouraged children to ensure their growth and development as productive citizens; Whereas, Mrs. Simmons, who knew the value of an education and service to one's country, saw many of her of children graduate from colleges and universities, become educators and lawyers and serve in the United States Army; Whereas, Mrs. Simmons was an active member of Salter's Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Miami, Florida; 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 the late Mrs. Blanche Simmons for her commitment to God and her church, and for her dedication and devotion to her family, friends 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 pay tribute to the late Mr. Harcourt Irvin Clark, Sr., a trailblazer, patriot, loving husband, father, grandfather and friend. Mr. Clark worked tirelessly to make a difference in his community and break down barriers. He became the first African-American police officer in the city of Coral Gables, Florida. Determined to break more barriers, he went on to serve as Chief of Police for the University of Miami Police Department, Director of Campus Safety for Florida International University, and as the first Administrative Director for the Miami-Dade County Equal Opportunity Program Social Service Agency, which is now the Community Action Agency of Miami-Dade County. He later shared his expertise and experiences as a professor of criminal justice at Florida International University. Mr. Clark capped his public service journey as a librarian in the city of North Miami. He went on to pursue his entrepreneurial spirit by opening ``The Hickory Pit Barbeque Restaurant.'' Before his stellar career in law enforcement, Mr. Clark dutifully served his country as a solider in the United States Army. After his tour of duty, he completed his college studies, earning a bachelor's degree, two master's degrees, and various certifications. Mr. Clark was born on December 23, 1934, to the late Zena Marie Sawyer-Clark and Irwin Harcourt ``Christmas'' Clark in Coconut Grove, Florida. He fulfilled his dream of becoming a member of the famed Marching 100, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University's (FAMU) marching band. While at FAMU, he also met Alice Martha Cabrera, who would become the love of his life and his wife of 44 years, before her death. Mr. Clark was a devout Christian and lifelong member of the Christ Episcopal Church in Coconut Grove. He was also a Life Member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated, and a member of The Free and Accepted Masonic Lodge, Prince Hall Affiliated. Please join me in paying tribute to the late Mr. Harcourt Irvin Clark, Sr., who lived a life of purpose, commitment, and service to his family, his friends and to his 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 and congratulate Bishop Walter H. Richardson, a man of God, a well-respected spiritual leader and a beloved husband and father, who is celebrating 49 years as Pastor of The Church of God Tabernacle (True Holiness), in Miami-Dade County. Bishop Richardson is one of the longest serving pastors in Miami-Dade County. Under Bishop Richardson's leadership, the church has grown to include congregations in Belle Glade, Florida and Valdosta, Georgia. Bishop Richardson is also highly recognized for the work he does in the community through the church's non-profit organization ButlfNot, Incorporated. Bishop Richardson was called to the ministry at an early age. Under the tutelage of his uncle, the late Elder Thomas J. Richardson, the founding pastor of The Church of God Tabernacle (True Holiness), and Elder Richardson's wife, the late Evangelist M.E. Richardson, a young Bishop Richardson would embody the skills to carry on the legacy begun by his uncle and aunt to lead one of the South Florida's most influential congregations. On November 30, 1946, Bishop Richardson was ordained an evangelist at The Church of God Tabernacle (True Holiness). He was named pastor of the church in May of 1965 and elevated to the position of Elder in 1967. He was ordained and installed as the first Bishop of The Church of God Tabernacle (True Holiness) in 1996. Bishop Richardson is the husband of Missionary E.C. Betty Forbes Richardson, the father of Dr. Walter T. Richardson and Elder Alfred J. Richardson, and the stepfather of Clifford J. Forbes and Dobrie Forbes. Please join me in honoring Bishop Walter H. Richardson for his commitment to spreading the Word of God and for his commitment to his congregation, his family, friends, and to our community.