Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I include in the Record a proclamation to honor Eufaula Frazier on this special occasion of her 100th birthday:

Whereas, Eufaula Frazier has been a steadfast advocate and

activist for human rights, dedicating more than 60 years of

her life to the fight for equality and justice in Miami-Dade

County, standing strong against disparities that unfairly

affected the Black community; and

Whereas, born in Dodge County, Georgia, into a family of 11

children, Frazier's early years were spent on one of the few

Black-owned farms in the area, teaching her the importance of

resilience and determination. She later moved to Miami in

1950, where she raised four children and opened a successful

beauty shop called the Little Nook; and

Whereas, witnessing injustices in her Liberty City

neighborhood, Ms. Frazier acted by founding the Tenants

Education Association of Miami, advocating for tenants'

rights, and playing a pivotal role in passing a state law to

protect those rights, helping countless families in the

process; and

Whereas, Ms. Frazier's activism extended far beyond housing

rights. She taught school, registered voters, and advocated

for HIV testing. She stood firm in the face of civil unrest,

such as the Liberty City riots of 1980, when she walked the

streets trying to calm the community, and continued her work

to uplift others even in challenging circumstances; and

Whereas, she earned a degree in social work from Florida

International University at the age of 53, showing her

lifelong commitment to education and social justice, and she

continued to give back to her community by opening Michelle's

grocery store, the only store left standing on her block

after the Liberty City riots; and

Whereas, Ms. Frazier has been an active participant in

national political movements, attending every Democratic

National Convention since 1972. In 2008, at the age of 83,

she witnessed Barack Obama's historic nomination as the first

Black presidential candidate, a moment that stood on the

shoulders of her own decades-long fight for civil rights; and

Whereas, her contributions to the civil rights movement,

her dedication to tenants' rights, and her unyielding spirit

in the face of injustice have made a profound impact on her

community and beyond. Ms. Frazier's legacy includes not only

her activism but also the countless individuals she has

mentored, whose lives stretch from Miami-Dade to across the

nation; and

Whereas, Ms. Frazier's family, including her daughter

Michelle, and her three sons, Maurice Coes, Norland Frazier,

and Edwin Frazier, continue to honor her legacy of service

and commitment to justice, embodying the values she has

instilled in them throughout their lives; and

Whereas, at the age of 100, Eufaula Frazier continues to

inspire those around her, and her unwavering dedication to

justice, equality, and community service stands as a beacon

of hope for generations to come; 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, do

hereby recognize and celebrate we honor and celebrate Eufaula

Frazier, on this special occasion of her 100th birthday, for

her lifelong dedication to fighting for justice, equality,

and human rights. Her enduring legacy is a testament to the

power of activism and the impact one person can have on the

world.

Mr. Speaker, I include in the Record a proclamation to honor Larry Juriga, chief of police in North Miami, Florida, as he enters retirement with over nearly four decades of service to the citizens of the city and county:

Whereas, Larry Juriga is deeply rooted in the North Miami

Community, born in the city and raised in South Florida; and

Whereas, Chief Larry Juriga during his stellar law

enforcement career, has made major philanthropic

contributions to young men and to the 5000 Role Models of

Excellence Project. Role Model Chief Juriga is passionate

about helping and mentoring youth. He is an advocate for

second chances within our juvenile community; and

Whereas, Chief Juriga began his career with the City of

North Miami in 1987, in the Parks and Recreation Department.

However, being inspired by his father, a 30-year veteran of

the North Miami Police Department, Larry attended the police

academy in 1993 and joined the police department in 1994; and

Whereas, Chief Juriga is committed to serving the

community. He worked as a patrol officer before being

transferred to the General Investigations Unit in 1997. He

oversaw major criminal investigations before joining North

Miami S.W.A.T. team a year later. His promotion to rank of

sergeant, appointment to major, then rank of Assistant Chief

of Police followed in rapid succession; and

Whereas, Larry Juriga's appointment to Interim Chief of

Police in May 2017 was followed, less than a year later, by

the pinnacle of Juriga's law enforcement career, the

appointment to Chief of Police. During his tenure as Chief,

the North Miami Police Department earned its accredited

status from the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement

Accreditation after an extensive review of the Department's

enhanced policies and procedures that reflect law

enforcement's highest standards; and

Whereas, Chief Juriga earned a Bachelor of Science Degree

from Barry University, competed as a scholar-athlete in

basketball. He also earned a Master of Public Administration

Degree from Florida International University, and graduated

from the prestigious FBI National Academy, 236th Session; 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,

congratulate Chief Larry Juriga as he starts his retirement

and celebrates nearly four decades of service and peacekeeper

to the citizens of North Miami, Florida and Miami-Dade

County.

Mr. 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 six 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.

Mr. 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.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz on making history as Miami-Dade County's first female sheriff. On January 7, 2025, Sheriff Rosie assumed this historic role as the Miami-Dade Police Department (MDPD) transitioned back into a Sheriff's Office for the first time in nearly 60 years.

Sheriff Rosie is a trailblazer and dedicated public servant with over 28 years of exemplary service in law enforcement. Her steadfast commitment to protecting and serving the people of Miami-Dade County has earned her the respect and admiration of her peers and the community alike. Rising through the ranks from police officer to assistant director, she has gained a profound understanding of the unique needs and challenges facing her community.

Throughout her distinguished career, Sheriff Rosie has served in a wide range of assignments, including uniform patrol, special investigations, Media Relations Bureau, Robbery Bureau, Homicide Bureau, Professional Compliance Bureau, and Economic Crimes Bureau. Her extensive experience in police operations, investigations, supervision, and administration has prepared her to lead with confidence and integrity.

In 2020, Sheriff Rosie was promoted to Police Division Chief of the North Operations Division, where she oversaw the administration and management of multiple districts, including the Intracoastal, Northside, Northwest, and Midwest Districts, as well as the Town of Miami Lakes. In 2022, she was promoted to Assistant Director of Support Services, where she managed Communications, Central Records, Personnel Management, and Cyber Crimes Bureaus. In 2024, she supervised Investigative Services, including the Criminal Investigations, Government Affairs, and Forensic Services Divisions. Sheriff Rosie also led Police Services, which included North and South Operations Divisions, the Airport and Seaport Operations Bureaus, three contractual cities, and the Special Patrol Bureau, serving as acting Assistant Director.

Sheriff Rosie's leadership is defined by her unwavering commitment to safety security, and community trust. Her top priorities as sheriff are to ensure the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office operates with the highest standards of ethics, professionalism, and respect. By maintaining order, protecting residents, and enforcing laws impartially, she is dedicated to making Miami-Dade County a safe and prosperous place for residents and visitors alike.

Sheriff Rosie holds a Master's Degree in Public Administration from Florida International University and a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice from Marist College. She is a graduate of the Executive Leadership Program, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) National Academy (session 265), the Florida Police Chiefs STARS program, the Police Executive Leadership Institute (PELI), and the FBI National Executive Institute for Leadership (Session 46). Additionally, she serves as the current President of the Florida Chapter of the FBI National Academy Associates, the largest alumni chapter in the world.

Mr. Speaker, Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz's groundbreaking appointment is an inspiration to future generations of law enforcement leaders. Her trailblazing leadership, dedication to public safety, and commitment to serving with integrity are truly commendable. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz for her remarkable achievements and invaluable contributions to Miami-Dade County.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Tragil Wade-Johnson, a distinguished entrepreneur, philanthropist inspirational speaker, life coach, and author.

Dr. Wade-Johnson has dedicated her life to the pursuit of improving the lives of others through education, empowerment, encouragement, and enlightenment. As the former caregiver and devoted sister to retired NBA Champion Dwayne Wade, her family's journey from tragedy to triumph inspired her to commit her life to supporting underprivileged youth. Dr.

Wade-Johnson's passion for children led her to found America's Big Sisters Foundation which seeks to change the narrative for youth facing challenges similar to those she and her brother overcame.

Establishing America's Big Sisters Foundation in 2017 as a 501(c)3 organization, Dr. Wade-Johnson continues her mission to empower, encourage, and educate young ladies in underserved communities. The foundation's annual EmpowHERment Conference, uniting girls across backgrounds and providing strategies to overcome societal challenges, has grown exponentially, impacting the lives of thousands. With a city tour reaching multiple states, this visionary leader aspires to touch the lives of 2,500 girls in 2023 alone.

Dr. Wade-Johnson's educational achievements, including degrees in Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education, coupled with her certifications in ministry, leadership, and trauma-informed care, underscore her commitment to lifelong learning and personal development.

Her illustrious career path encompasses roles as a teacher, principal, and executive director, reflecting her diverse skill set and dedication to shaping young minds. Notably, as the Executive Director of Wade's World Foundation from 2006 to 2017, she led the organization in raising more than $3.4 million and garnered numerous awards. Recognitions such as the BET Humanitarian Award, Woman of Excellence, and the Dr. Rita Marley Ambassador Award underscore her impactful presence in the philanthropic landscape.

Dr. Tragil Wade-Johnson's dedication to positive change and her unwavering commitment to uplifting the next generation epitomizes the transformative power of education, resilience, and compassionate leadership, inspiring us all to strive for a better future.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring Dr. Tragil Wade-Johnson for all she has achieved, and for her commitment, dedication and service to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Omar Williams as he is the newly appointed pastor of Pentecostal Tabernacle.

Pastor Omar Williams is a native of St. James, Jamaica. He was born on April 6, 1979, in White Hall, St. Elizabeth as the sixth of seven children of Reginald (deceased 2010) and Agatha (now Abigail) Williams.

Pastor Williams earned a Diploma in Education from Sam Sharpe Teachers' College; a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the International University of the Caribbean, a Master of Arts in Pastoral Care from Fordham University; and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry degree in Ministry Leadership at Southeastern University.

His parents introduced him to the church when they became members of Kingsway

Tabernacle (KWT) United Pentecostal Church of Jamaica (UPCJ) in 1981 under the leadership of Pastor Ambrose Hind. He made his personal commitment to Jesus Christ in 1991 when he was baptized with the Holy Spirit and was subsequently baptized in water.

While residing in New York, Pastor Williams was an active member of the New York Metro District, of the United Pentecostal Church International (UPCI). On June 10, 2017, Mr. Williams was ordained to the ministry by the (UPCI) during the New York Metro District Annual Conference held in Old Westbury, New York.

Since January 1, 2022, Pastor Williams has been serving as the Assistant Pastor for Pentecostal Tabernacle Miami (Pentab) under the leadership of Pastor S. Robert Stewart. He has been providing general and spiritual oversight to the ministry of Pentab under the guidance of Pastor Stewart and in collaboration with the board of elders, associate pastor, ministers, auxiliaries, employed staff, and volunteers. He has been functioning as Pentab's primary Bible teacher and preacher, responsible for the regular Bible studies and ministry of the church.

In June 2023, the baton of pastoral leadership was passed from Pastor Stewart to Pastor Omar Williams. Pastor Williams and his wife Lady Dr. Michell Williams are honored to carry the legacy of Pentecostal Tabernacle International forward for years to come.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring Pastor Omar A. Williams for all he has achieved.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Deputy Chief Timothy Belcher for his stellar and philanthropic contributions to the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project.

Frederick Douglass once said, ``it is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.'' Thank you so much for believing in our mission of interrupting the school to prison pipeline and to guiding our young boys along a cheerfully charted path and sending them to college.

You are investing in the children of our community, and they will be the benefactors of your investment for generations to come. You will always be a part of us, and we will always be a part of you. Thank you for all that you do on behalf of our children.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring Deputy Chief Timothy Belcher, a 2023 Role Model Wall Man with a generous philanthropic spirit, and I ask my colleagues from the 117th Congress to join me in honoring this special circle of brotherhood.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Nancy S. Dawkins, an outstanding educator and community leader, on the momentous occasion of her 100th birthday.

Nancy S. Dawkins was born on October 11, 1923, in Dania, Florida. She received degrees from Bethune Cookman College, Florida A&M University, and the University of Northern Colorado. She worked in the Dade County Public School System for over 30 years. She was married for over 52 years to the late former Miami City Commissioner Miller Dawkins.

As a dean in South Florida's political arena, her activism and influence ranges from Federal, Local and State Judges; Members of the United States Congress on both sides of the aisle; Members of both Houses of the Florida Legislature; Dade County and the City of Miami Commissioners and Managers along with numerous employees in all these institutions. Mrs. Dawkins worked tirelessly and supported many elected officials during their successful campaigns, such as Governor Bob Graham, US Congressman Claude Pepper, US Congresswoman Carrie Meek, US Congresswoman Frederica Wilson, Florida Representative Joe Lang Kershaw, County Commissioner Barbara Carey, Florida Representative and School Board Member Dorothy Mindingall, Florida and Miami City Commission Miller Dawkins, Miami Mayor and Commissioner Xavier Suarez, and Florida Representative Gwen Cherry.

This Miami activist was a founder of the Theodore Gibson Oratorical Contest. This contest is named after the late Reverend Theodore Gibson, a former City of Miami Commissioner and community activist. The competition is designed to refine school children's public speaking skills. Mrs. Dawkins is a former Girl Scout Troop leader. She is a member of the American Association of University Women. She is a member of Mt. Zion AME Church in Dania Beach, Florida where she serves as a Stewardess. She has received numerous awards for her service to the community, including a ``Women of Impact'', Sojourner Truth Award, Dr. Martin Luther King Service Award, US Congressional Award, and numerous other awards and appreciations. Mrs. Nancy Dawkins served as Founder and Charter member of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women--South Florida in every official and organizational position. At the 2015 District Conference, she was presented a ``Strands of Wisdom'' golden medallion for her 50 years of service to the Business and Professional Women's Club. In 2018, she was recognized by Bethune Cookman University as the institution's oldest living graduate and Ms. Mary McLeod Bethune's last living student.

The City of Miami has recognized Mrs. Dawkins countlessly throughout the years. Northwest 50th Street between 12th and 17th Avenues was designated ``Mrs. Nancy S. Dawkins Way'' in her honor in 2018. Also, the Miller and Nancy Dawkins Swimming Complex was named after her and her husband at Charles Hadley Park. She is a life member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and is still active in the Delta Dears. She is a charter member of National Council of Negro Women, charter member and founder of Northwest Miami Chapter No. 4686 of AARP. She is still active in her National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women, the Allapattah Homeowners Association.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring Mrs. Dawkins for becoming a centenarian, and her ten decades of dedication and service to the community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Lee ``Freezy'' Prince, a visionary music manager, astute entrepreneur, dedicated youth advocate, and proud product of Carol City High School whose multifaceted contributions to the entertainment industry, business community, and youth development have made him an exemplary role model and community leader.

Lee Prince has built an extraordinary career as one of the music industry's most respected managers and entrepreneurs. As the long-time manager and business partner of international superstar Flo Rida, Freezy has been instrumental in cultivating one of the most successful careers in contemporary music. In a pivotal strategic decision, Freezy, along with A&R executive Mike Caren, persuaded Flo Rida to expand his artistic vision beyond Miami-focused music and instead focus on larger, universal themes with worldwide appeal, This calculated gamble paid off magnificently. Under Freezy's management through Strong Arm Management, Flo Rida has sold over 100 million records worldwide, with hits like ``Low,'' ``Right Round,'' ``Good Feeling,'' ``Wild Ones,'' ``Whistle,'' and ``My House'' dominating charts across continents.

As Chief Executive Officer of IMG Strong Arm, Freezy oversees overall company operations, including strategic planning, financial management, talent acquisition, and business development. His innovative approach to marketing and management has propelled Flo Rida to achieve numerous chart-topping hits and international acclaim.

Beyond artist management, Freezy has demonstrated exceptional business acumen through strategic real estate investments transforming his community. In 2023, Freezy and Flo Rida made history by purchasing the Cloverleaf Shopping Plaza in Miami Gardens for $10 million, making it Miami Gardens' first entirely Black-owned shopping plaza--a milestone achievement in a city where Black residents comprise the majority yet historically lacked ownership of commercial real estate. Under Freezy and Flo Rida's ownership, the plaza has undergone significant improvements. Tenants have praised the transformation, noting enhanced security, better maintenance, and responsive management.

Freezy's business portfolio also includes Studio 183, a popular entertainment hub, as well as investments in The Licking restaurant and Bar Idol. These strategic acquisitions demonstrate Freezy's commitment to creating economic opportunities and building wealth within the Black community.

Mr. Speaker, while Freezy's business achievements are impressive, his most profound impact lies in his dedication to youth development and community service. Freezy co-founded Big Dreams for Kids with Flo Rida, a charitable organization encompassing multiple programs including the Florida Youth Football League, Strong Arm Elite Track Club, and FYFL Cheerleaders.

The Florida Youth Football League has become one of the premier youth football organizations in South Florida, offering competitive football and cheerleading programs across 22 clubs throughout Broward County. The league provides structured athletic competition while emphasizing character development, academic achievement, teamwork, and leadership skills.

Strong Arm Elite Track Club provides young athletes with high-level training in track and field. The program has produced numerous accomplished athletes who have competed at district, regional, state, and national levels. Known for his exceptional ability to develop talent, Freezy has personally aided scores of students in securing college scholarships and opportunities to pursue their dreams through athletics.

Freezy's dedication to youth is exemplified through his personal involvement as a coach for his son in both the Florida Youth Football League and Strong Arm Elite Track Club. In 2024, Lee Prince, Jr. won the Florida High School Athletic Association Class 4A State Championship in the 100-meter dash, claiming the title of Florida State Champion. He also placed second in the 200-meter dash at the state championships, earning recognition as the Broward County 4A-3A Boys Track Athlete of the Year. As a running back for the St. Thomas Aquinas Raiders football team, Lee Prince, Jr. has also won a state football championship.

Mr. Speaker, Freezy's commitment to community extends far beyond youth athletics. Every Thanksgiving, Freezy feeds community members, ensuring families in need have proper holiday meals. During Christmas, he provides toys to children. Throughout the year, Freezy actively supports worthwhile causes and charitable initiatives.

I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Lee ``Freezy'' Prince for his outstanding contributions to the music industry, his strategic business investments creating economic opportunities in Miami Gardens, and his profound dedication to youth development. Lee ``Freezy'' Prince is a true asset to Miami-Dade County, the State of Florida, and our Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Pastor S. Robert Stewart as he is consecrated to Bishop S. Robert Stewart.

Pastor Sydney Robert Stewart has been an integral part of the Miami Gardens community for over four decades, actively contributing to its development and progress. For 27 years, Pastor Stewart has led the congregation of Pentecostal Tabernacle International in Miami, Florida. His impact extends beyond his role as a pastor, as he has been actively involved in effecting positive change through his passion and commitment to serving others.

Pastor Stewart's tireless work and dedication towards the betterment of the community has resulted in a remarkable achievement. He has managed to unite pastors from different denominations, despite their varying religious affiliations, to come together and collaborate towards a common goal. This collaboration has led to the formation of the Miami Gardens Pastors Lifting Up Services (MGPLUS), which aims to uplift and serve the community. Through his leadership, Pastor Stewart has shown that despite our differences, we can come together for the greater good and make a positive impact in our city.

Over the last 25 years, under the leadership of Pastor Stewart, Pentecostal Tabernacle has led a series of initiatives that have brought immense support and resources to the people of this dynamic community. These programs have played a vital role in improving the lives of countless individuals and families, providing them with the tools and resources necessary to thrive and succeed.

Among the many programs the Ministry offers are General Educational Development (GED) classes, which allow individuals to complete their high school education and receive a diploma. The ministry also provides life skills training and workshops, which equip individuals with the necessary tools to navigate the complexities of daily life. The Ministry also recognizes the importance of business skills in today's economy and provides training and workshops to individuals seeking to acquire or enhance their business acumen. Another vital program of the ministry is the CARE Health Campaign and Community Health Fair, which provides free health screenings, as well as mental and behavioral health screenings, interventions, and referrals. The Ministry also offers support to individuals experiencing grief with the CARE for Grief Groups and the Uplift Summer Grief Camp, which served children who have experienced the loss of a loved one to death and incarceration for the past three years.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring Bishop S. Robert Stewart for all he has achieved.

Mr. 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.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring Philip Davis for all he has achieved.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Wayne A. Jones, an outstanding public servant as he starts his new journey as the first black Police Chief of the City of Miami Beach.

Chief Jones was born and raised in Nassau. Bahamas. He lived between the Bahamas and Miami as an adolescent. He earned a Master of Science degree in Public Administration from Florida international University, a Bachelors degree in Political Science and Public Administration from Florida Memorial University, and an Associate's Degree in Professional Piloting and Technology from Miami-Dade College. He is also a licensed pilot. Chief Jones completed the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Law Enforcement Executive Development Seminar and the Police Executive Research Forum's Senior Management Institute for Police program.

Chief Jones has a career that spans nearly three decades. He began with the City of Miami Beach Police Department in 1996 as a patrol officer and has progressively ascended through the ranks. Chief Jones has worked in multiple department areas, including Patrol Operations, Special Operations, Community Affairs, Internal Affairs, and Criminal Investigations.

During his tenure, Chief Jones created the department's human trafficking unit and developed strong partnerships with the State Attorney's Human Trafficking taskforce. This unit leads Miami-Dade County in investigations and arrests for sex trafficking offenses. As a sergeant in community affairs, he developed the blueprint for MBPD's nationally recognized Homeless Resource Program. As a Major, he crafted a strategy to boost the recruitment of women police officers, which resulted in an increase of female officers from 12 to 18 percent of all new hires. Chief Jones' mission is to prioritize women in leadership.

Chief Jones is an active member of several nationally recognized organizations, such as the International Chiefs of Police and The National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring Chief Wayne A. Jones for all he has achieved.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Lieutenant Colonel Willard Shepard for 28 years of distinguished service in the United States Air Force Reserves.

Lt. Colonel Shepard is retiring from active duty at U.S. Southern Command in Doral, Florida, to become a member of the Civil Air Patrol at Opa Locka Coast Guard Air Station Miami, which is located in Congressional District 24.

Lt. Colonel Shepard is also an awarding winning journalist, attorney and mentor to hundreds of Miami-Dade County School students. He serves as the United States Air Force academic liaison officer, in Congressional District 24; helping students obtain ROTC scholarships and appointments to the United States Air Force Academy.

As a mentor with the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project, Lt. Colonel Shepard is an inspiration to hundreds of young men, and middle and high school students. He is a shining example of what can be achieved through education, hard work and dedication.

Lt. Colonel Shepard is a graduate of the Florida International University College of Law and specializes in media and aviation legal issues. He graduated cum laude from Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with a Bachelors Degree in Communications and Theater, and he is a distinguished graduate of the U.S. Air Force Officer Training School in San Antonio, Texas.

Please join me in honoring Lt. Colonel Willard Shepard for his many years of distinguished service to our country, as a United States Air Force Pilot, and for his unwavering commitment to our young people and our community.

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.

Minister 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, I rise today to recognize and honor the late Mattye Phillips, a lifelong educator, community activist and the first Black Psychometrist (psychological tester) in the State of Florida.

Ms. Phillips began her teaching career at the age of 20. She taught French, English, Drama and Physical Education Theory. Ms. Phillips' career would expand to include the title of lecturer and trainer. She also focused her energy on working with youth through the Alternatives to Incarceration Program. Ms. Phillips worked tirelessly and dedicated her life to changing the lives of young people in the Second Chance Program.

Ms. Phillips drew her thirst for knowledge and her drive to help others from her father's

belief that ``lazy people walk,'' and from that day she always ran.

Ms. Phillips graduated high school at age 16. After graduation from high school, she attended Florida Agricultural Mechanical University (FAMU) where she received a Bachelors of Science Degree and a Master of Education Degree.

Please join me in honoring the late Mattye Phillips, a mother, teacher and nurturer, who dedicated her life to educating and guiding our youth in Miami-Dade County.