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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“Aronowitz led successful reform initiatives, including a secondary school reform model for senior high schools and a School Improvement Zone for underperforming schools within Miami-Dade County, which served as a national model for improved school performance; Whereas, Mrs. Aronowitz created UTD's Education Summit which brings educational leaders and social issue activists to Miami-Dade in interactive sessions with teachers: Whereas. Mrs. Aronowitz established the UTD Teaching Excellence Foundation to promote professional development opportunities for educators; Whereas, Mrs.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E693] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] COMMENDING KAREN ARONOWITZ ______ 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 Karen Aronowitz, and I include in the Record the following proclamation in her honor: Whereas, Karen Aronowitz served three terms as President of United Teachers of Dade (UTD) and represented 32,000 teachers and education support professionals in the Miami-Dade County Public Schools system; Whereas, Mrs.”
“He has performed with iconic musicians, including Maxi Priest, Wyclef Jean, Buju Banton and Big Youth; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, commend Hugh Beresford ''Beres'' Hammond for his talent and dedication to his art, and for his contributions the music industry. ____________________”
“Hammond's distinctive, romantic and soulful style, which was influenced by American soul and jazz music, and native Jamaican artists he grew up listening to in Annotto Bay, Jamaica, has garnered him international notoriety and acclaim; Whereas, Mr. Hammond began singing and performing in local talent shows in the 1970's, and his career spanned more than 40 years, resulting in numerous hit singles and albums that have topped music charts. Whereas, Mr. Hammond formed his own record label, Harmony Records, in 1985 and released his album ``Make a Song,'' which had two Jamaican chart-toppers and set the stage for his success and recognition in the Reggae music industry; Whereas, Mr. Hammond's 2012 album ``One Love, One Life,'' topped the Billboard Reggae Albums chart.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E692] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] COMMENDING HUGH BERESFORD ``BERES'' HAMMOND ______ 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 commend legendary Reggae superstar Hugh Beresford ``Beres'' Hammond, known to his legions of fans and the music world as Beres Hammond, and I include in the Record the following proclamation in his honor: Whereas, Mr.”
“Wilson, a member of the United [[Page E692]] States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, commend the late Elder Ruben Alexander Cox, Jr. for his dedication to his family, his church, our youth and our community. ____________________”
“and I include in the Record the following proclamation in his honor: Whereas, the late Elder Ruben Alexander Cox, Jr., at an early age, was ordained to the gospel ministry, committed to the work and calling of God and served as a ministry for over 50 years; Whereas, Elder Cox dedicated his life to preaching and teaching the word of God, and by teaching messages of hope and love became a spiritual blessing to many; Whereas, Elder Cox gave abundantly to charity and to his community throughout his lifetime; Whereas, Elder Cox was an advocate for community and social change, and one of the community's unsung heroes: Whereas, Elder Cox built his life around faith, family and friends; Whereas, Elder Cox, even in retirement, continued to work with the youth in his community, mentoring and guiding them to become selfless members of society; Whereas, Elder Cox was a devoted father and husband who always had a wise sermon for anyone who would listen; 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] [Pages E691-E692] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] COMMENDING THE LATE ELDER RUBEN ALEXANDER COX, JR. ______ 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 the late Elder Ruben Alexander Cox, Jr.”
“Gibson was an active member in her community and often lobbied the State Legislature as a children's advocate; Whereas, Mrs. Gibson was honored by the Miami-Dade County Child Development Services and received numerous awards, including the daycare center she founded, Michael's Kindergarten, Inc., being named Day Care Center of the Year; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, honor the life and accomplishments of Mrs. Dorothy Ballard Gibson. ____________________”
“Gibson dedicated her life to healthcare in South Florida, working as a registered nurse at Jackson Memorial Hospital in 1956, Kendall Hospital in 1962, and as a supervisor at the Veterans Administration Hospital from 1966 until her retirement in 1990; Whereas, Mrs. Gibson and her husband Sampson established Michael's Kindergarten, Inc., and educated thousands of children from Miami's Liberty City, Opa-locka, Carol City and numerous other communities, at four-day care centers; Whereas, Mrs. Gibson was an active member of Mt. Zion AME Church, where she served with the Missionary Society, the Trustee Board, Youth Development Department, the Little Folk Choir and the Founder of the Dorothy Gibson Lay Organization; Whereas, Mrs.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E691] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LEGACY AND IMPACT OF DOROTHY BALLARD GIBSON ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Wednesday, July 15, 2026 Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the legacy and impact of Dorothy Ballard Gibson, and I include in the Record the following proclamation in her honor: Whereas, Dorothy Ballard Gibson graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in 1948, and went on to pursue a career in healthcare, earning her Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing from the Medical College of Virginia; Whereas, Mrs.”
“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.”
“Aronowitz led successful reform initiatives, including a secondary school reform model for senior high schools and a School Improvement Zone for underperforming schools within Miami-Dade County, which served as a national model for improved school performance; Whereas, Mrs. Aronowitz created UTD's Education Summit which brings educational leaders and social issue activists to Miami-Dade in interactive sessions with teachers: Whereas. Mrs. Aronowitz established the UTD Teaching Excellence Foundation to promote professional development opportunities for educators; Whereas, Mrs.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E693] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] COMMENDING KAREN ARONOWITZ ______ 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 Karen Aronowitz, and I include in the Record the following proclamation in her honor: Whereas, Karen Aronowitz served three terms as President of United Teachers of Dade (UTD) and represented 32,000 teachers and education support professionals in the Miami-Dade County Public Schools system; Whereas, Mrs.”
“He has performed with iconic musicians, including Maxi Priest, Wyclef Jean, Buju Banton and Big Youth; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, commend Hugh Beresford ''Beres'' Hammond for his talent and dedication to his art, and for his contributions the music industry. ____________________”
“Hammond's distinctive, romantic and soulful style, which was influenced by American soul and jazz music, and native Jamaican artists he grew up listening to in Annotto Bay, Jamaica, has garnered him international notoriety and acclaim; Whereas, Mr. Hammond began singing and performing in local talent shows in the 1970's, and his career spanned more than 40 years, resulting in numerous hit singles and albums that have topped music charts. Whereas, Mr. Hammond formed his own record label, Harmony Records, in 1985 and released his album ``Make a Song,'' which had two Jamaican chart-toppers and set the stage for his success and recognition in the Reggae music industry; Whereas, Mr. Hammond's 2012 album ``One Love, One Life,'' topped the Billboard Reggae Albums chart.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E692] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] COMMENDING HUGH BERESFORD ``BERES'' HAMMOND ______ 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 commend legendary Reggae superstar Hugh Beresford ``Beres'' Hammond, known to his legions of fans and the music world as Beres Hammond, and I include in the Record the following proclamation in his honor: Whereas, Mr.”
“Wilson, a member of the United [[Page E692]] States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, commend the late Elder Ruben Alexander Cox, Jr. for his dedication to his family, his church, our youth and our community. ____________________”
“and I include in the Record the following proclamation in his honor: Whereas, the late Elder Ruben Alexander Cox, Jr., at an early age, was ordained to the gospel ministry, committed to the work and calling of God and served as a ministry for over 50 years; Whereas, Elder Cox dedicated his life to preaching and teaching the word of God, and by teaching messages of hope and love became a spiritual blessing to many; Whereas, Elder Cox gave abundantly to charity and to his community throughout his lifetime; Whereas, Elder Cox was an advocate for community and social change, and one of the community's unsung heroes: Whereas, Elder Cox built his life around faith, family and friends; Whereas, Elder Cox, even in retirement, continued to work with the youth in his community, mentoring and guiding them to become selfless members of society; Whereas, Elder Cox was a devoted father and husband who always had a wise sermon for anyone who would listen; 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] [Pages E691-E692] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] COMMENDING THE LATE ELDER RUBEN ALEXANDER COX, JR. ______ 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 the late Elder Ruben Alexander Cox, Jr.”
“Gibson was an active member in her community and often lobbied the State Legislature as a children's advocate; Whereas, Mrs. Gibson was honored by the Miami-Dade County Child Development Services and received numerous awards, including the daycare center she founded, Michael's Kindergarten, Inc., being named Day Care Center of the Year; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, honor the life and accomplishments of Mrs. Dorothy Ballard Gibson. ____________________”
“Gibson dedicated her life to healthcare in South Florida, working as a registered nurse at Jackson Memorial Hospital in 1956, Kendall Hospital in 1962, and as a supervisor at the Veterans Administration Hospital from 1966 until her retirement in 1990; Whereas, Mrs. Gibson and her husband Sampson established Michael's Kindergarten, Inc., and educated thousands of children from Miami's Liberty City, Opa-locka, Carol City and numerous other communities, at four-day care centers; Whereas, Mrs. Gibson was an active member of Mt. Zion AME Church, where she served with the Missionary Society, the Trustee Board, Youth Development Department, the Little Folk Choir and the Founder of the Dorothy Gibson Lay Organization; Whereas, Mrs.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E691] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LEGACY AND IMPACT OF DOROTHY BALLARD GIBSON ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Wednesday, July 15, 2026 Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the legacy and impact of Dorothy Ballard Gibson, and I include in the Record the following proclamation in her honor: Whereas, Dorothy Ballard Gibson graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in 1948, and went on to pursue a career in healthcare, earning her Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing from the Medical College of Virginia; Whereas, Mrs.”
“As President of the Women's History Coalition, she fought to secure literature on the contributions of women for Miami-Dade County Public Schools and she helped to initiate a scholarship for young women from the Women's History Coalition. Ms. Shirley is also a member of the Florida Association of School Administrators and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. Ms. Shirley earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education from Florida Memorial College in 1980. She received her master's degree in Guidance and Counseling in 1989 from Barry University and attended Florida International University for her post graduate studies in Education Administration and Supervision. Please join me in honoring Ms. Rhoda Omega Shirley for her commitment, dedication and service to our students and to her community.”
“She also taught adult and secondary students part-time for eight years. Her love of teaching and fighting for educational opportunities for our children would catapult Ms. Shirley into leadership roles throughout her career. She has served as: Lead Education Specialist/Coordinator, Instructional Staffing Officer, District Supervisor Summer and Extended Year Programs, Director Area Center for Educational Enhancement (ACEE), Executive Director, and Director Summer Services/HIPPY. Ms. Shirley believes that all communities are rooted in the values of their ancestors and cultures. She leads by example and her dedication to her profession and work with our children extends far beyond the classroom.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E690] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING MS. RHODA OMEGA SHIRLEY ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Tuesday, July 14, 2026 Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, from the 24th District, of the great state of Florida, I rise today to recognize and honor one of South Florida's most respected educators, Ms. Rhoda Omega Shirley, who is retiring after thirty-three years as a teacher and District Director with Miami-Dade County Public Schools. Ms. Shirley began her teaching career in 1980 as a full-time elementary school teacher.”
“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. There are more than 2.9 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. I am honored to recognize Pamela Burnett, breast cancer survivor and founder of The Beautiful Gate Cancer Support & Resource Center, for her dedication and commitment to our community. ____________________”
“Burnett opened the doors to the Beautiful Gate Cancer Support & Resource [[Page E690]] Center. Its mission is to provide African-Americans with the support they need to survive this illness. The center also services the community by increasing cancer awareness amongst African-Americans in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. 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.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E689-E690] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING PAMELA BURNETT ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Tuesday, July 14, 2026 Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and pay tribute to Pamela Burnett, a breast cancer survivor and the founder of The Beautiful Gate Cancer Support & Resource Center in Miami, Florida. Ms. Burnett was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2002. In 2005, she started holding support group meetings out of her home for African- Americans battling cancer. A year later, in 2006, Ms.”
“He was born December 15, 1924, in La Gonave, an island off mainland Haiti. Mr. Juste arrived in South Florida with his wife and children in 1973, after spending a few years in New York. Please join me in honoring the late Viter Juste for his commitment, dedication and many years of distinguished service in Miami-Dade County. ____________________”
“As Haitian immigrants arrived and settled into South Florida, in the 80s, Juste fought against discrimination against Haitians and was successful in getting a reversal of a Miami-Dade School Board decision that prohibited the enrollment of undocumented Haitian students. He also started an adult- education program, where he taught English to new arrivals. Mr. Juste is one of the founders and was the first chairmen of the Haitian-American Community Association of Dade, which was one of the first social-service agencies dedicated to the Haitian community. As a businessman, Mr. Juste established one of the first Haitian- owned businesses in the community. He opened a French-and-Creole- Language records and bookstore called [[Page E689]] Les Cousins Records and Books. He went on to publish a French-Ianguage 12-page weekly newspaper.”