Frederica S. Wilson
Representative for Florida · Democratic · United States
“Speaker, I rise today to recognize Valley Grove Missionary Baptist Church for 50 years of service to the City of Miami, and I include in the Record the following proclamation in its honor: Whereas, Valley Grove Missionary Baptist Church was founded in 1963 and has been a leader in our community spreading the Word of God; Whereas, Valley G…”
“Speaker, I rise today to recognize Valley Grove Missionary Baptist Church for 50 years of service to the City of Miami, and I include in the Record the following proclamation in its honor: Whereas, Valley Grove Missionary Baptist Church was founded in 1963 and has been a leader in our community spreading the Word of God; Whereas, Valley G…”
“Speaker, I rise today, to pay tribute to and honor the life and legacy of the late Pastor James Frederick ``Rick'' Hines, Jr., a well-respected man of God, spiritual leader and mentor, loving son, husband and father, and I include in the Record the following proclamation in his honor: Whereas, Pastor Hines was a passionate and beloved you…”
“Speaker, I rise today, to pay tribute to and honor the life and legacy of the late Pastor James Frederick ``Rick'' Hines, Jr., a well-respected man of God, spiritual leader and mentor, loving son, husband and father, and I include in the Record the following proclamation in his honor: Whereas, Pastor Hines was a passionate and beloved you…”
“Williams has received numerous awards and accolades for his enthusiastic performance during his tenure including perfect attendance, achieving over 1,500 hours of sick leave, and a dedication to service award; Whereas, Mr.”
“Williams has received numerous awards and accolades for his enthusiastic performance during his tenure including perfect attendance, achieving over 1,500 hours of sick leave, and a dedication to service award; Whereas, Mr.”
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“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E712] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] PAYING TRIBUTE TO TEQUILA JANAE TEKEYSHA FORSHEE ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Monday, July 20, 2026 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 Tequila Janae Tekeysha Forshee.”
“Wilson, a member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 25th 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. ____________________”
“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 include in the Record a proclamation on commending the efforts of Haitian American Historical Society (HAHS): 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 serve to educate future generations of Haitian Americans about their heritage and build a connection to Haiti; Whereas, the Haitian Historical Museum and Archives serve to foster understanding, tolerance and cooperation between South Florida's diverse communities; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E711] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] COMMENDING THE HAITIAN AMERICAN HISTORICAL SOCIETY ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Monday, July 20, 2026 Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr.”
“She was the oldest of six children, and after losing her father at a young age, she helped raise her siblings. Mrs. Clark Lyons is the mother of four: Leonard, Rosemary, Franklin, and Marvin (deceased). She has sixteen grandchildren and eight great- grandchildren. Ms. Clark Lyons has been an active member of Mt. Hermon A.M.E. Church for over fifty years. She enjoys cheering for the Miami Dolphins and the Miami Heat; her favorite sports teams. She also enjoys cooking Bahamian food, and her specialty is pigeon peas and rice. Please join me in honoring Mrs. Fannett Clark Lyons on this remarkable milestone, her 100th birthday. ____________________”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E710] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING MRS. FANNETT CLARK LYONS ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Monday, July 20, 2026 Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to extend my sincerest congratulations, and birthday wishes to Mrs. Fannett Clark Lyons, an outstanding citizen, wife, mother and friend who celebrated her 100th birthday. Mrs. Clark Lyons has lived an exemplary life of service to her family, her church and her community. Mrs. Clark Lyons was born in the Miami's Overtown neighborhood, on September 14, 1913.”
“Pastor Anderson earned a bachelor's degree from Jacksonville Theological Seminary; a Master of Theology Degree and Posthumous Doctoral Degree in Theology from Practical Christianity Institute of Evangelism (PCIE), School of Bible Theology. Please join me in honoring the late Pastor Dr. Annette Anderson, for her commitment, dedication and service to God, her congregation, her family and friends and our community. [[Page E710]] ____________________”
“She lived her life based on the teachings and lessons in the Bible, which also served as a guide to raising her family and working to improve our community and quality of life. Pastor Anderson never met a stranger, nor tired of helping those in need. Her unwavering faith in God, love for all people and words of wisdom are credited with bringing comfort to the suffering at their darkest hour and restoring their faith. As pastor and teacher of Light of Life Ministries, a weekly prayer and Bible study ministry, and assistant pastor of Breakthrough Deliverance and Healing Prayer Ministries, Incorporated, Pastor Anderson touched the lives of countless people. She did not believe in dwelling on the past and past circumstances but using life's struggles as steppingstones to strengthen one's faith in Jesus.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E709-E710] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LATE PASTOR, DR. ANNETTE ANDERSON ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Monday, July 20, 2026 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 Pastor Dr. Annette Anderson, a true servant of God, a beloved and respected spiritual leader, and a dedicated social activist in Miami Gardens, Florida. Pastor Annette Anderson devoted her life to serving God and spreading His Word.”
“Wilson, a member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, commend the late Officer William J. Calhoun for his service to our country and our community, for his activism, and for his dedication to his family and friends. ____________________”
“Calhoun dutifully served and protected the citizens of the City of Miami and was one of the police department's first African-American dispatchers; Whereas, Officer Calhoun bravely served his country as a member of the United States Navy and the United States Army; Whereas, Officer Calhoun's valiant efforts lead to the restoration and preservation of the Black Police Precinct and Courthouse and its designation as a historical site in the City of Miami; Whereas, Officer Calhoun selflessly gave back to his community by serving as a board member for many Liberty City organizations such as the Martin Luther King Economic Development Corporation, the Belafonte Talcolcy Center, and the City of Miami Department of Code Enforcement; Whereas, Officer Calhoun was a devoted member of the New Way Fellowship Praise and Worship Center where he assisted in the security and the retirees' ministries; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E708] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] COMMENDING OFFICER WILLIAM J. CALHOUN ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Monday, July 20, 2026 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. William J. Calhoun one of the first African-American police dispatchers for the City of Miami Police Department, and dedicated community activist. I include in the Record the following proclamation in his honor: Whereas, Officer William J.”
“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. ____________________”
“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 and Mechanical University, a Master 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 her experiences through social media websites; Whereas, Mrs.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E707] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] COMMENDING MRS. MARIA H. ARENAS ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Monday, July 20, 2026 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. Maria H. Arenas, beloved educator, wife and mother who passed away on June 21, 2013. I include in the Record the following proclamation in her honor: Whereas, Mrs.”
“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. ____________________”
“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; 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 whom 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.”
“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; 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; Whereas, Mrs.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E706] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] COMMENDING MRS. AGENORIA LUCILLE SPEARMAN PASCHAL ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Monday, July 20, 2026 Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend and honor retired educator, Mrs. Agenoria Lucille Spearman Paschal, a legendary pioneer in education in Miami-Dade County Public Schools, a visionary way ahead of her time, a dedicated community servant, and an advocate for students, teachers, parents and our schools, and I include in the Record the following proclamation in her honor: Whereas, Mrs.”
“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. ____________________”
“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 Solid Waste and Public Works for the city of South Miami; Whereas, Mr.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E705] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] COMMENDING MR. CLARANCE ``PAT'' PATTERSON ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Monday, July 20, 2026 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 ``Pat'' Patterson, a devoted public servant, union representative, husband, father, and friend, and I include in the Record the following proclamation in his honor: Whereas, Mr.”
“I encourage all residents to celebrate the rich culture of the Caribbean during National Caribbean-American Heritage Month. ____________________”
“history, and the influence of Caribbean people and their descendants on American culture; Whereas, South Florida is home to many Caribbean-Americans who make up a large percent of the population; Whereas, Caribbean-Americans have played a major and notable role in the growth and development of South Florida, from holding public office, prominent positions in education and religion, to owning successful businesses and being vocal community activists; 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 who also has Caribbean roots, am proud to recognize the contributions of Caribbean-Americans to South Florida and to our country.”
“I include in the Record the following proclamation in honor of National Caribbean Heritage Month: Whereas, the President of the United States of America, Barack Obama, has issued the annual proclamation in 2013 recognizing June as National Caribbean-American Heritage Month; Whereas, National Caribbean-American Heritage Month recognizes the significance [[Page E705]] of Caribbean people in U.S.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E704-E705] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING NATIONAL CARIBBEAN HERITAGE MONTH ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Monday, July 20, 2026 Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Caribbean-Americans to South Florida and the Nation through the arts and humanities, business, science and engineering, activism, and military leadership as we celebrate the 8th anniversary of National Caribbean-American Heritage Month.”
“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. [[Page E704]] ____________________”
“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 black vote in history and landed Dr. Braynon an invitation along with several other Black leaders to a ``White House Luncheon''; 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; Whereas, Dr.”
“for sixty-eight 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; 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, Perseverance and Uplift; Whereas, Dr.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E703-E704] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] COMMENDING AND HONORING DR. EDWARD J. BRAYNON, JR. ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Monday, July 20, 2026 Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, to commend and honor Dr. Edward J. Braynon, Jr., a dedicated community-servant, civil rights activist, role model, and mentor, and I include in the Record the following proclamation in his honor: Whereas, Dr. Braynon has been a loyal and faithful member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.”
“Because of his efforts to keep crime and drugs from ruining the lives of those in his community, he has been awarded the key to the city of Miami by Mayor Manny Diaz and County Mayor Alex Alvarez. He was also given the honor of having April 1st designated as Wilner Maxy Day in the City of North Miami by Mayor Andre Pierre. Please join me in honoring Reverend Wilner Maxy for his commitment, dedication and service to our community. ____________________”
“In that time, he has served as a dedicated liaison between Miami-Dade County's Haitian and Baptist communities and the local and statewide government officials. His selfless service as chairman of the Haitian Pastors Association, a member of the Board of Trustees for Baptist Health Systems, and other boards in the community show his passion for both his religion and his community. In his 30 years of passionate leadership, Reverend Maxy has helped the Emmanuel Haitian Baptist Church grow from 200 members to over 1,300, created a scholarship for young men and women who wish to go to seminary and enter the ministry, expanded the church's outreach program to include eight churches and three schools in Haiti, as well as planned to broaden the ministry to Orlando, Pompano Beach, and South Miami.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E697] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING REVEREND WILNER MAXY ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Wednesday, July 15, 2026 Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, from the 24th District of the great state of Florida, I rise today to recognize and honor Reverend Wilner Maxy, a well-respected religious leader, and dedicated community and international activist. Reverend Maxy is one of the founding members of Emmanuel Haitian Baptist Church, in Miami, in 1973, and has been the pastor of the church since 1983.”
“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. ____________________”
“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.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E696] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] COMMENDING MR. RAY MOU ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Wednesday, July 15, 2026 Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise to commend Mr. Ray Mou. I include in the Record the following proclamation in his honor: 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.”
“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. ____________________”
“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.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E695] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] COMMENDING MR. MATTHEW WILLIAMS, JR. ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Wednesday, July 15, 2026 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 in his honor: Whereas, Mr.”
“Williams served in the United States Navy, and is a veteran of World War II; 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 accomplishments of Mr. Johnnie L. Williams, Jr. ____________________”
“Williams, Jr., served Miami-Dade County with integrity and commitment to protecting and serving its citizens for over 40 years; Whereas, Mr. Williams was bound by his beliefs in equality, fairness and justice for African Americans, employees of Miami-Dade County, students and families. He generously gave and supported various charitable organizations, including little league teams in Opa locka, Miami Gardens and Liberty City; Whereas, Mr. Williams worked tirelessly to ``balance the scales of justice.'' and ensure the safety of our youth; Whereas, Mr. Williams was one of the first Black business owners in Miami-Dade County, running an NFL Skycap and Porters business; Whereas, Mr. Williams was a member and advocate of the Miami-Dade Chamber of Commerce and served as the President of the Orange Ridge Corporation; Whereas, Mr.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E694-E695] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING MR. JOHNNIE L. WILLIAMS, JR. ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Wednesday, July 15, 2026 Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, from the 24th District of the great state of Florida, [[Page E695]] I rise today to recognize and honor Mr. Johnnie L. Williams, Jr., one of Miami's first Black business owners. I include in the Record the following proclamation in his honor: Whereas, Mr. Johnnie L.”
“Wilson, a member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, recognize and honor the late Mr. Clifford Chesson for his commitment to his family, our community and our country. ____________________”
“Chesson was a strong advocate for the safety and well-being of Miami-Dade Public Schools' students, faculty and staff, administrators, school board members, employees, volunteers and vendor; Whereas, Mr. Chesson performed his duties with dedication, passion and integrity; Whereas, Mr. Chesson stood up for what he believed in and answered the call to serve our country in 1978, by joining the United States Army, where he served 20 years, and another five years in Army Reserve; Whereas, Mr. Chesson dedicated his life to public service and offered inspiration to many; Whereas, Mr. Chesson was a man of strong faith in God, a dedicated husband to his wife Barbara, and daughters Camille, Shanika Chesson-Ivy and Frederica Parks; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E694] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING MR. CLIFFORD CHESSON ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Wednesday, July 15, 2026 Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, from the 24th District, of the great state of Florida, I rise today to recognize and honor Mr. Clifford Chesson a longtime Miami Dade County Public Schools Employee. I include in the Record the following proclamation in his honor: Whereas, Mr. Chesson was an employee of the Miami-Dad County Public Schools security team for many years; Whereas, Mr.”
“He graduated from Miami Jackson [[Page E694]] Senior High School and continued his education at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) and the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science. Please join me in honoring Minister Gary Range for his commitment, dedication and service to our community. ____________________”
“Minister Range is also known for reaching out to those in our community who have lost their way in life and their faith. He brings hope and inspiration by sharing through his motivational words and vast knowledge of the Bible. Public service is a way of life for Minister Range, who carries on family legacy of service begun by his late mother, M. Athalie Range, and his father, the late Oscar L. Range. Mrs. Range was the first African American to serve as a Miami City Commissioner and the first African American and woman to head a Florida state agency, the Department of Community Affairs. Minister Range's father was also a well-known community activist, mortician, and entrepreneur. Minster Range is a proud father of seven children.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E693-E694] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING MINISTER GARY RANGE ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Wednesday, July 15, 2026 Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Minister Gary Range, a lifelong community activist and spiritual leader. Minister Range is a member of 93rd Street Community Baptist Church and has spent his life working to improving the quality of life for the less fortunate and spreading the word of God.”
“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. ____________________”
“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; Whereas, Mrs, Aronowitz has been featured in The Wall Street Journal for her work in career research with high school students, is a multiple year honoree in Who's Who Among American Teachers, is a recipient of the Jewish Museum of Florida's Breaking the Glass Ceiling Award, received the Monty Trainer Chairman's Award in 2011 for Speaking UP for Public Education and honored in 2012 by the Bethune-Cookman University Miami-Dade Alumni Association as a ``Trail Blazer for Education;'' and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S.”