Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, from the 24th District of the great State of Florida, I rise today to honor Marc Narotsky for his stellar service and contributions as Commissioner of the City of Aventura.

Someone once said this about local government, ``when you are in local government, you are on the ground, and you are looking into the eyes and hearts of the people you are there to serve. It teaches you to listen; it teaches you to be expansive in the people with whom you talk to; and that engagement gives you political judgment.''

It is this same standard of leadership and approach that has distinguished his success at the City of Aventura. With input given from passionate public servants like Commissioner Narotsky, Aventura is certain to have a bright future guided by a grounded approach to local governance, cooperation, and investment in the well-being of this community achieved during his tenure in office as a Commissioner.

Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring Commissioner Marc Narotsky for the completion of his term in office, his time, his commitment, and outstanding contribution representing the residents of the City Aventura.

Madam Speaker, from the 24th District of the great State of Florida, I rise today to honor Enid Weisman for her stellar service and contributions as Mayor of the City of Aventura.

Someone once said this about local government, ``when you are in local government, you are on the ground, and you are looking into the eyes and hearts of the people you are there to serve. It teaches you to listen; it teaches you to be expansive in the people with whom you talk to; and that engagement gives you political judgment.''

It is this same standard of leadership and approach that has distinguished her success at the City of Aventura. With input given from passionate public servants like Mayor Weisman, Aventura is certain to have a bright future guided by a grounded approach to local governance, cooperation, and investment in the well-being of this community achieved during her tenure in office as a mayor.

Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring Mayor Enid Weisman for the completion of her term in office, her time, her commitment, and outstanding contribution representing the residents of the City Aventura.

Madam Speaker, I rise today, as the first Bahamian American elected to Congress, to honor and welcome Curt G. Hollingsworth as the newly appointed Consul General of the Bahamas in Miami.

Consul General Hollingsworth migrated to Miami when he was young, and he is a product of the Miami-Dade County Public School System. He graduated from Miami Carol City High School, and he received his Associates of Arts degree from Miami Dade Community College. He went on to receive a Bachelor of Arts degree in Educational Psychology from Cambridge University.

A native of West End Grand Bahama, Consul General Hollingsworth is a seasoned educator with nearly four decades of experience as a teacher, track and field and basketball coach, mentor, and administrator. He is known in the Marco City community as an activist with a mission towards the advancement of young people.

Mr. Hollingsworth has had the love and support of his caring wife, Caroline Hollingsworth, for more than 45 years. They are the proud parents of 5 children; 4 sons and 1 daughter.

Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring the Honorable Curt G. Hollingsworth as he returns to Miami as the Consul General of Bahamas.

Madam Speaker, I rise today, as the first Bahamian American elected to Congress, to honor and welcome Philip Davis the newly elected Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of the Bahamas.

Philip Edward ``Brave'' Davis was born on June 7, 1951, in Nassau, Bahamas, the oldest of eight children born to Dorothy and Brave Edward Davis. Mr. Davis received his primary education at the Old Bight All Age School on Cat Island while living with his grandparents. After returning to Nassau, he went on to receive an education at the Eastern Junior & Senior Schools, and at St. John's College in New Providence.

Prime Minister Davis is perhaps best known now as a politician, serving as Leader of the Progressive Liberal Party, and Member of Parliament for Cat Island, Rum Cay and San Salvador. However, he entered politics late in life. Professionally, he is known both locally and internationally as an acclaimed Corporate and Human Rights lawyer, a highly distinguished legal educator, a passionate sportsperson, a sponsor of many sporting activities, and a Toastmaster.

After a brief stint in banking, he articled as a Law Clerk in the Law Chambers of Wallace Whitfield & Barnwell. His appointment as Queen's Counsel, the highest possible honor which is conferred on those practicing law in the English legal system anywhere in the world, came in recognition of both his highly successful legal practice, but also his contribution to legal education. A leading litigation lawyer, Philip `Brave' Davis has an impressive record in the Courts of Appeal, with perhaps more appearances before the UK Privy Council than any other Bahamian lawyer.

A former Member of the Council of Legal Education for CARICOM, he has made an unprecedented contribution to legal education in the Caribbean region. Mr. Davis twice served as Vice-President of the Bar Council before becoming President of the Bahamas Bar Association in 1995. Since 2002, he has been Managing Partner of the law firm which bears his name: Davis & Co.

In 1970 Mr. Davis became a Member of Toastmaster Club 1600, a nonprofit organization established to develop leadership skills through listening, thinking, and speaking. He served as its President in 1979, and as Division Governor of Toastmasters for The Bahamas in 1989. A keen sportsman interested in baseball, softball, swimming, and athletics. Mr. Davis served as Vice-President of the Bahamas Swim Federation from 1986 to 1990 and was President of the Sea Bees Swim Club from 1980 to 1990.

Mr. Davis has the love and support of his caring wife, Ann-Marie Davis. They have six children who have inherited their father's passion for sports, hard work and patriotism, which led them to represent the Bahamas at the Caribbean Free Trade Association (CARIFTA) Games.

During the last administration of the Progressive Liberal Party, from 2012 to 2017, Mr. Davis ran a super-ministry, the Ministry of Works. His portfolio covered everything relating to the physical infrastructure of The Bahamas, as well as oversight of Bahamasair, BEC, and the Water & Sewerage Corporation. Since May 2017, he has been Leader of the Progressive Liberal Party. On September 16th, he was elected the fifth Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, where he also serves as Minister of Finance.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Michael A. Finney, the first Black President & CEO of the Miami-Dade Beacon Council. He is newly inducted into 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project and is the recipient of the 2022 5000 Role Models of Excellence Martin L. King, Jr. Breaking the Glass Ceiling Award.

Mr. Finney guides the official economic development partnership for Miami-Dade County

focusing on job creation and economic growth. This is the first time that an African American has had the top role in championing the county's effort to market itself as a world class business destination. Mr. Finney has led the organization since 2017. The Miami-Dade Beacon Council serves as the official economic development organization for Miami-Dade County. The not-for-profit public-private partnership focuses on job creation and economic growth. Since 1985, the organization has assisted more than 1,200 businesses that have created more than 74,000 jobs and added more than $6.7 billion in new capital investments. It accomplishes this by marketing Miami-Dade as a world- class business location, growing local companies and entrepreneurs and shaping the local economy's future. The Council engages local, national, and international audiences when facilitating business growth and expansion.

Prior to his current role, Mr. Finney served as president and chief executive officer for Community Ventures Resources Inc. in Ann Arbor, Michigan, served as senior adviser for economic growth for the State of Michigan's Governor Rick Snyder and as president and chief executive officer of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.

Mr. Finney is a member of the boards of directors of the Miami Branch of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, the Miami Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired, the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce, Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau, Saginaw Valley State University Foundation, and the Florida Memorial University's Social Justice Institute Advisory Board.

He received his Bachelor of Business Administration from Saginaw Valley State University and an MA in human resources from Central Michigan University.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Rudolph Moise as he expands his practice to include Comprehensive Medical Aesthetics in Miami, Florida.

Dr. Moise was born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. As a tenacious 17-year old, he migrated to the United States, and he received a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago and a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from the Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine before obtaining a federal medical grant to train for four years at a Miami clinic that served Haitian refugees. Dr. Moise's thirst for knowledge coupled with his passion for service inspired to continue this great work.

In 1985, he began his private practice in a small storefront in North Miami, which eventually became Comprehensive Health Center, his current medical practice. His passion for learning and dedication to his community led him to earn a law degree and MBA. Dr. Moise never practiced law, but the knowledge he gained assists him to navigate the legal aspect of medicine. His desire to give back to America led him to become a flight surgeon in the Air Force Reserve where he served for 21 years and earned the rank of Colonel, the highest ranking American of Haitian descent to hold such a position.

As a native of Haiti, he is an advocate for improving the welfare of his country. In 2003, he was appointed by Gov. Jeb Bush to serve on the Governor's Haiti Advisory Group as part of an effort to advance the economic development and resources in Haiti. Dr. Moise has received numerous leadership accolades over the years, including being named a top finalist for ``Best Physician of the Year'' by the

South Florida Business Journal. Among his other notable service awards is the 2012 Dorothy Shula Outstanding Volunteerism Award from the United Way of Miami Dade County, as well as the MCCJ Humanitarian of the Year Award. He formerly served as the president of the Dade County Medical Association and chairman of the Jackson Health Foundation.

Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring Dr. Rudolph Moise as he develops his practice to consist of Comprehensive Medical Aesthetics.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Monica R. Richardson, executive editor of the Miami Herald. Richardson, who is the first black person to serve in this role in the publication's 117 year history. She also oversees el Nuevo Herald and the Bradenton Herald, and serves as McClatchy's Florida regional editor. Ms. Richardson is the recipient of the 2022 5000 Role Models of Excellence Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Breaking the Glass Ceiling Award.

Her historic January 1, 2021 appointment as executive editor was made during a critical period in American history when, in the aftermath of the cruel and senseless murder of George Floyd. millions of people across the nation experienced a racial reckoning that led to cries for diversity, equity, and inclusion in all facets of life. Nearly 6 months after Mr. Floyd's death, she received a racist email from a reader that included derogatory and misogynistic slurs targeting her. Rather than sweep it under the rug, Richardson chose to address the email in a column and open a dialogue with Miami. ``Miami, who are we in times of challenge? Who are we right now? How are you using your voice?'' she wrote.

A native of Charlottesville, Virginia, Richardson is a seasoned journalist and editor. Over the course of her 30-year career, she has worked at the Charlottesville Observer, Florida Times-Union, and the Lexington Herald-Leader. She joined McClatchy after spending 15 years at the Atlanta Journal-Constitution as the newspaper's digital managing editor and senior managing editor. In a statement announcing Richardson's appointment as the Miami Herald's top editor, Kristin Roberts, McClatchy's senior vice president of news, praised her ``strong record of leadership in local journalism at one the great metro newsrooms in the country.''

Richardson has been a champion for diversity and inclusion in newsrooms. She has served as a leader for various journalism industry associations and as a juror to the national Pulitzer Prize board. A graduate of Old Dominion University, Richardson enjoys mentoring young journalists and seasoned professionals. She also is an advocate for foster care and adoption and adopted her daughter in 2014.

Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring Monica Richardson for using her position as executive editor to give voice to stories that might otherwise not be told.

Madam Speaker, from the 24th District of the great state of Florida, I rise today to recognize and honor the late Mr. Langston Longley, Sr., a beloved husband, father, and friend.

Whereas, Langston O. Longley was born in Nassau, Bahamas. His youth was filled with many activities and organizations, including the Boys Brigade, church and athletics. He came to Miami at an early age and lived in the greater Miami area for over 40 years; and

Whereas, Mr. Longley furthered his education in Miami, graduating from Miami Dade Community College, University of Miami & Barry University in Real Estate Business/Marketing Programs. He successfully completed

the required courses and training for the American Real Estate University, earning the designation of Certified REO Specialist (CREO) which better equipped him to utilize his real estate knowledge to assist those in critical need; and

Whereas, for nearly four decades, Mr. Longley served Dade and Broward counties as a licensed Realtor. He was an experienced Real Estate Developer, having built and sold single family homes. He also provided rental housing for Miami-Dade Section Eight and Moderate Rehab clients for over 25 years; and

Whereas, Mr. Longley was an active member in several cultural/ community organizations. He was a mentor with the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project, appointed to the Miami-Dade Housing Program Landlord Advisory Council, a member of Dade and Broward Real Estate Investment Associations as well as a longtime member of the National Association of the Bahamas. Mr, Longley served as Chairman of St. Mary's Wesleyan Methodist Church as Trustee Chairman for over 20 years; and

Whereas, Mr. Longley was immensely proud of his Bahamian heritage. He was a Bahamian Junkanoo Musician and Costume Maker. He was the co- leader and founder of the Bahamas Junkanoo Revue of Miami, which performs the colorful Bahamian masquerade tradition throughout the United States. For decades, Langston served as a cultural bridge between the United States and the Bahamas promoting junkanoo all across the United States; and

Whereas, Mr. Longley leaves behind to cherish his precious memory: his lovely wife of 50 years Lula; his three children; seven adorable grandchildren; and numerous relatives and friends; and now, therefore,

Be it resolved That I, Frederica S. Wilson, a Member of the United States House of Representatives representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, am honored to recognize the late Mr. Langston Longley, Sr. for his commitment, dedication, and service to our community.

Madam Speaker, I rise to honor the service of Taylor Burtch, my fellow who has worked to improve our Nation's education system. Taylor has proven to be a talented and intelligent policy analyst, always ready to take on any task and apply her knowledge.

Taylor assisted my education policy team, where she worked on legislation, partook in stakeholder meetings, and considered various ways to improve education and teacher assistance. She is a detailed and focused professional with the ability to excel in her projects.

Originally from Dundee, Michigan, Taylor completed her bachelor's degree in Women's Studies at the University of Toledo and her master's degree in Gender and Sexualities Research at the University of Florida. Currently, Taylor is a doctoral candidate at the University of Florida. She will receive her PhD in Higher Education Administration and Policy after successfully defending her dissertation, which focuses on the exploration of college trajectories among young persons with adverse childhood experiences, in the Summer of 2023. Taylor will use her passion for education equity to continue her policy research and advocate for improve conditions for marginalized communities.

The first fellow to serve in the University of Florida's Legislative Education Fellows program, Taylor has made my office proud to receive the university's inaugural fellow.

On behalf of Florida's 24th Congressional District, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Taylor Burtch for her inevitable success.

Madam Speaker, I rise today as a descendant of Bahamians, to recognize Senator Dwight Bullard for his contribution to the City of Miami's designation of the Little Bahamas of Coconut Grove on July 19, 2020.

Since the 19th century, Bahamians played an integral role in the founding of the City of Miami, representing one-third of the registered signatories on the July 28, 1896, date of the city's incorporation.

Much like Miami's original Bahamian signatories, Senator Dwight Bullard's commitment to preserving the rich Bahamian culture and history of Miami has helped to ensure the designation of the Little Bahamas of Coconut Grove.

Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring Dwight Bullard for his contributions to the community and his role in the historic designation of the Little Bahamas of Coconut Grove.

Madam Speaker, I rise to honor the service of Veer Sawhney, my intern who has completed his Winter 2022 semester serving the people of Florida's 24th Congressional District. Veer has proven to be a very capable young man and shows great promise for his future endeavors.

Veer has assisted my office in various areas, including education policy, communications, and constituent engagement. He has shown a great understanding of the legislative process and has demonstrated his ability to adapt to the political arena. Veer has presented an excellent work ethic and willingness to learn.

Veer is a proud first-generation Indian-American from Leonia, New Jersey. A student at American University, Veer is working to receive his bachelors in Political Science and his master's in Public Policy with a concentration in education policy and policy, management, and leadership.

Veer is using his time at American University to gain practical skills which he plans to use in his future endeavors. His passion will drive him to work in education policy, where he plans to develop policies to improve our nation's education system.

On behalf of Florida's 24th Congressional District, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Veer Sawhney for his hard work and accomplishments.

Madam Speaker, I rise to honor the service of Annett Reyes-Alvarez, my intern who has completed her Winter 2022 semester serving the people of Florida's 24th Congressional District. Annett has proven to be a curious and intelligent young woman.

Annett has assisted my office in various areas, including foreign relations, communications, and constituent engagement. She has demonstrated her ability to adapt and her willingness to learn and research. Annett has exhibited her ability to grow and improve her skillset.

The daughter of Loreley Alvarez and Jorge Luis Reyes, Annett is a first-generation Cuban-American from Miami, Florida. She is majoring in International Relations at Florida International University's Honors College. During her time at Florida International University (FIU), Annett has joined many organizations such as UN Women and UNICEF. She took part in FIU's Hamilton Scholars program to gain a deeper knowledge and understanding of America's place in the global arena. Annett will use her lessons to pursue a career in foreign affairs.

On behalf of Florida's 24th Congressional District, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Annett Reyes-Alvarez for her professional growth, service to her community, and her present and future accomplishments.

Madam Speaker, I rise today as a descendant of Bahamians, to recognize Monty Trainer for his contribution to the City of Miami's designation of the Little Bahamas of Coconut Grove on July 19, 2022.

Since the 19th century, Bahamians played an integral role in the founding of the City of Miami, representing one-third of the registered signatories on the July 28, 1896, date of the city's incorporation.

Much like Miami's original Bahamian signatories. Monty Trainer's commitment to preserving the rich Bahamian culture and history of Miami has helped to ensure the designation of the Little Bahamas of Coconut Grove.

Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring Monty Trainer for his contributions to the community and his role in the historic designation of the Little Bahamas of Coconut Grove.

Madam Speaker, I rise today as a descendant of Bahamians, to recognize Pastor Nathaniel Robinson for his contribution to the City of Miami's designation of the Little Bahamas of Coconut Grove on July 19, 2022.

Since the 19th century, Bahamians played an integral role in the founding of the City of Miami. representing one-third of the registered signatories on the July 28, 1896, date of the city's incorporation. Much like Miami's original Bahamian signatories, Pastor Nathaniel Robinson's commitment to preserving the rich Bahamian culture and history of Miami has helped to ensure the designation of the Little Bahamas of Coconut Grove.

Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring Pastor Nathaniel Robinson for his contributions to the community and his role in the historic designation of the Little Bahamas of Coconut Grove.

Madam Speaker, I rise today as a descendant of Bahamians, to recognize Miami-Dade County Commissioner Raquel Regalado for her contribution to the City of Miami's designation of the Little Bahamas of Coconut Grove on July 19, 2022.

Since the 19th century, Bahamians played an integral role in the founding of the City of Miami, representing one-third of the registered signatories on the July 28, 1896, date of the city's incorporation.

Much like Miami's original Bahamian signatories, Commissioner Raquel Regalado's commitment to preserving the rich Bahamian culture and history of Miami has helped to ensure the designation of the Little Bahamas of Coconut Grove.

Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring Commissioner Raquel Regalado for her contributions to the community and her role in the historic designation of the Little Bahamas of Coconut Grove.