Floor Statements

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. 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. 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. 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.

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. 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. 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.

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. 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. 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.

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. 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.

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.

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. 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.

Mr. Speaker, from the 24th District of the great state of Florida, I rise today to recognize the grand reopening of the Haitian Historical Museum and Archives in North Miami, Florida and 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. 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.

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. I include in the Record the following proclamation in her honor:

Whereas, Tequila was a vibrant, fun loving and beautiful

12-year-old girl who loved to help others and dreamed of one

day becoming a chef and a detective;

Whereas, Tequila enjoyed mathematics and excelled in her

studies at Brentwood Elementary School and looked forward to

attending Miami Carol City Middle School;

Whereas, Tequila's hard work as a student earned her a

place on the Assistant Principal's Honor Roll and numerous

awards such as the Language Arts Achievement Award, and the

Mathematics Achievement Award;

Whereas, Tequila was a member of the dance praise team at

Gospel of Tabernacle and a water girl at Brentwood Park; and

Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson,

a member of the United States House of Representatives,

representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida,

recognize and pay tribute to Tequila Janae Tekeysha Forshee,

a precious angel with a big heart and who was deeply loved by

her family, friends and classmates.

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. 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. 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.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to commend the late Elder Ruben Alexander Cox, Jr. 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. Wilson,

a member of the United

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.

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. 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. 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.

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. 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. 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

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.

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. He graduated from Miami Jackson

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.

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. 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. 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.

Mr. Speaker, from the 24th District of the great state of Florida,

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. 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. 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.

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 has received numerous awards and

accolades for his enthusiastic performance during his tenure

including perfect attendance, achieving over 1500 hours of

sick leave, and a dedication to service award;

Whereas, Mr. Williams provided an invaluable service to his

country as a member of the United States Army in both Vietnam

and Korea achieving the rank of Sergeant before being

honorably discharged in 1975;

Whereas. Mr, Williams' unwavering devotion to God has been

evidenced by his ministration as Deacon, Assistant

Superintendent of Sunday School, and Usher at Greater New

Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church;

Whereas, Mr. Williams has been the loving and devoted

husband of Sandra Williams for 37 years, father of Senior

Master Chief Heerey C. Gaston, Jr., Tameka W. Jones, Monique

W. Deggins, and Matthew B. Williams, III, and grandfather of

nine grandchildren; and

Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson,

a member of the United States House of Representatives.

representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida,

commend Mr. Matthew Williams, Jr. for his years of commitment

and faithful service to his country, his community, and his

family.