Congressional Record, House, February 2, 2022, Page H905

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A page of the Congressional Record, House, dated February 2, 2022, at page H905. A speaker argues that American security lies in securing the southern border rather than the Russia-Ukraine border and criticizes members who vote no on a bill and then take credit for projects. The Speaker pro tempore reminds Members to refrain from engaging in personalities toward the President. Under the heading Supporting CHIPS for America Fund, Mr. Soto is recognized for 60 minutes as the designee of the majority leader and says 32 Republicans joined Democrats to vote for the Senate's version of the America COMPETES Act, which would boost domestic microchip manufacturing. The remarks are the speakers' own.

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“Congressional Record, House, February 2, 2022, Page H905.” Original at www.govinfo.gov. Archived at Pandemic Darlings, https://pandemicdarlings.com/source-documents/crec-crec-2022-02-02-crec-2022-02-02-pt1-pgh905-45459b89c4/, SHA-256 5efcbf20b03ec155fcadddb455c2f2ac1726b09809dc059f3a757bf50db208cb.

Full text

February 2, 2022 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H905
The path to American national secu- lighted that will happen. I would say, It didn’t stop a few of them from try-
rity does not lie in American inter- as I conclude here, it cannot happen ing to take credit, though, trying to
national interventionism. It lies in se- soon enough. take credit for projects, despite voting
curing our southern border, not the Madam Speaker, I yield back. no. If you vote no and you try to take
Russia-Ukraine border. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- credit now, the message is clear. Amer-
Our greatness is forged in our resist- bers are reminded to refrain from en- ica will shame you every day, every
ance to interference. The war lobby has gaging in personalities toward the time.
no ally in the America First Repub- President. Now, we turn to the America COM-
licans. We will preserve our strength f PETES Act. Madam Speaker, 32 Repub-
through nationalism. We will champion licans joined with Democrats to vote
SUPPORTING CHIPS FOR AMERICA for the Senate’s version of this, boost-
America First today and America First
FUND ing domestic microchip manufacturing,
forever.
Madam Speaker, we earned our The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under which we do in our district, and I am
greatness. Let others earn theirs. If the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- going to go into that a little more in a
Joe Biden hasn’t prostituted our pre- uary 4, 2021, the gentleman from Flor- moment; improving supply chains for
eminence to the military-industrial ida (Mr. SOTO) is recognized for 60 min- medical supplies like PPE, like vac-
complex by the time Donald Trump re- utes as the designee of the majority cines, telecom, solar, all these critical
turns, we will preserve this great city leader. issues; and, yes, enabling us to compete
on a hill for the descendants of our Mr. SOTO. Madam Speaker, you are against economic rivals like China,
grandchildren. in luck. I heard a lot of complaints but like Russia, and others who don’t share
Mr. JOHNSON of Louisiana. Madam no solutions. That is why my col- our values.
Speaker, I thank Mr. CAWTHORN and leagues across the aisle lost the 2020 In the Senate, the vast majority of
appreciate his insights. election miserably. them are able to come together. In the
Madam Speaker, what we have heard We know what they are against. House, I hope we are. I hope we have a
here tonight are Members from across President Biden said it best. What are few of our colleagues.
the country, across the Republican the Republicans for? What are they Then, there is going to be a con-
Conference, who represent Americans for? ference. We are going to conference
all across this great land. They have Some of them joined us in some of this, make some deals between the
expressed the people’s deep concerns the bills I am about to outline. The House and the Senate, and we are going
about the multiple crises that we face. rest of them, it has been nothing. to get something together. That bill is
We have pointed out here and made Meanwhile, Democrats delivered the going to come back.
the case and presented the evidence American Rescue Plan, shots in arms, That is going to be the last shot, the
and money in pockets, and we stopped last shot for both Democrats and Re-
that these crises are the direct result
another Great Recession. Can you publicans to come together to ensure
of policy choices by the White House
imagine how we would be able to re- we produce millions of new jobs in do-
and the Democrat leaders in Congress.
spond to delta or omicron without mestic manufacturing.
It is unconscionable. From the Madam Speaker, I want to commend
fentanyl crisis to the border crisis to passing future relief?
the America COMPETES Act for in-
the energy crisis to this mockery of a Now, unemployment is below 4 per-
cluding $52 billion to incentivize pri-
bill that they are trying to jam cent. We created nearly 7 million jobs
vate-sector investments and continued
through Congress this week, the Amer- last year. In my district, we were dev-
American leadership in semiconductor
ican people recognize this for what it astated by the Great Recession. Fore-
manufacturing and microchip manu-
is. closures devastated central Florida. In
facturing to help address supply chain
Madam Speaker, as I conclude, I 2021, this time around, foreclosures are
disruptions and to ensure more
would just make a couple of reminders down from 2020.
microchips are produced here at home.
about what we call the America con- Americans in central Florida lost I have heard from my local auto deal-
cedes to China act. their homes last time around. This ers. I have heard from local manufac-
This is a 2,900-page bill patched to- time around, we put a stop to it. turers. We need to make these
gether in a back room somewhere with House Republicans voted no, yet Re- microchips at home, and this bill helps
no regular order, no debate, no amend- publican Governors took the American us do that.
ment process, no committee hearings, Rescue Plan money and responded to Within our district in central Flor-
no input from the other side of the our Nation’s crisis. That is what we ida, we have the NeoCity technological
aisle at all. The Democrats went to the should all be doing. campus, which is recognized as an
back room, put together a 2,900-page Next, we go to the bipartisan infra- emerging microchips, microelectronics,
bill. structure framework. There is huge and advanced manufacturing hub. We
It has a price tag of $325 billion. It is support among all Americans to up- have ready-made synergies with insti-
filled with unvetted policies, partisan grade America, our roads and bridges, tutions of higher education across
poison pills, and provisions totally un- our ports and airports, our clean water, Florida and key partnerships with the
related to China. It doesn’t do any- clean and resilient energy, rural U.S. Department of Defense and the
thing to address the threat from the broadband. I have urban, suburban, and U.S. Department of Commerce under
Chinese Communist Party as adver- rural areas in the district. Everyone in both the Trump administration and
tised, and it does more harm than my district, regardless of their party now under the Biden administration.
good. background, is excited about this infra- NeoCity is home to BRIDG, a non-
Madam Speaker, we could be here all structure. We have had meetings with profit public-private partnership spe-
night. We could be here for multiple local officials across the area, and they cializing in domestic semiconductor re-
hours, highlighting all the crises. We are looking to work with us to upgrade search, development, and manufac-
don’t have to because the American America. turing.
people can see this for themselves. According to Republican Senator ROB Imec, a world-renowned international
They see China as the greatest threat PORTMAN, it helps fix supply chains and research and development organization
to our national security and sov- is counterinflationary. That is why 22 active in the semiconductor design and
ereignty and everything else of our Senators from the Republican side architecture space, also has a presence
lifetime. They see the border. They see voted yes and why 10 Republicans col- there.
the energy. They see the COVID crisis. leagues here in the House voted yes. SUSS MicroTec, a leading supplier of

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Everything this White House touches We applaud these 32 Republicans for equipment and process solutions for
has been a disaster. joining all Democrats in voting for the the semiconductor industry, is working
Madam Speaker, it is time for a infrastructure bill. What did the rad- at NeoCity.
change. I think the American people ical House Republicans do? They at- Then there is SkyWater Technology,
will let their voices be heard in the tacked their own over infrastructure. the only domestically owned and oper-
next election cycle this fall. I am de- What a sad, sad legacy that is. ated pure play trusted foundry that

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H906 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 2, 2022
works on leading-edge advanced pack- Science and Technology Policy is re- and local authorities. These action
aging technology for microchips and quired to establish a blockchain and plans will focus restoration efforts
microelectronics. They are all working cryptocurrency advisory specialist po- more effectively. They also allow for
in collaboration at the Center for sition within the Office to advise the emergency grants and emergency funds
Neovation at NeoCity, one of the most President on matters related to for coral disasters. This is critical for
state-of-the-art, advanced manufac- blockchain and cryptocurrencies. hurricane-prone areas like Florida and
turing facilities in the Western Hemi- OSTP advises the President and oth- will assist with hurricanes, typhoons,
sphere. ers within the Executive Office of the tsunamis, as well as oil spills, and
As envisioned by this important leg- President on the scientific, engineer- other major pollution events.
islation, the facility and experts at ing, and technological aspects of the We thank all House Members who
BRIDG, imec, SUSS MicroTec, and economy, national security, homeland supported this for its inclusion, along
SkyWater Technology offer immediate security, health, foreign relations, and with these technological amendments,
capability to accelerate U.S. produc- the environment. It is critical to create these coral reef provisions in this es-
tion of critical semiconductor chips, such a position within OSTP to ensure sential piece of legislation that allows
strengthen the domestic supply chain there is a policy expert capable of ad- us to compete in the 21st century.
so chips are made right here in Amer- vising the President and others within It is in the name, Madam Speaker,
ica, and turbocharge our research ca- the Executive Office on these issues of and together we are going to get this
pacity. growing national importance. done.
Equally as important, NeoCity Acad- Madam Speaker, there is more be- HONORING DR. FAYE BELLAMY
emy, a public STEM magnet high cause we have the Restoring Resilient Mr. SOTO. Madam Speaker, in honor
school, is training the leaders of to- Reefs Act, which passed through our of Black History Month, I would like to
morrow’s science and technology work- Committee on Natural Resources to re- recognize Dr. Faye Bellamy. Dr. Faye
force. authorize the Coral Reef Conservation Bellamy is a retired educator. She
I am proud of the work being under- Act, the CRCA, which expired nearly 15 worked full time in the Polk and
taken in our district to support domes- years ago. It maintains the NOAA Hillsborough County school districts.
tic semiconductor manufacturing tech- coral reef program while also intro- Presently she works part time as a pro-
nology development as they work to ducing overdue improvements to coral fessor at Polk State College.
address the supply chain. I look for- management and restoration efforts In addition to her experience teach-
ward to working with the administra- and giving new, innovative tools to ing various subjects, she has countless
tion and the U.S. Department of Com- States, territories, Tribes, commu- hours organizing and implementing
merce on implementation of the Amer- nities, and universities, partners who dropout prevention programs, training
ica COMPETES Act and the CHIPS for are closest to this crisis. teachers, and working to improve our
America fund. local schools.
In this bill, we were able to get an b 1845
Dr. Bellamy has a bachelor’s degree
amendment to clarify that chips fund- We know that the Great Florida Reef in social science education, a master’s
ing also includes nonprofits in places is in danger, and we are doing every- degree in education administration, a
like NeoCity. We appreciate the House thing we can to restore it. This is crit- specialist degree in administration and
for supporting this, adding nonprofits ical to our recreation, to clean water, supervision, and a doctorate in edu-
to the definition of ‘‘covered entities’’ to protect habitat, and to tourism. cational leadership and higher edu-
to expand the semiconductor incentive A few of the provisions included in cation. She has used the knowledge
program to include nonprofit entities, the Restoring Resilient Reefs Act, a bi- gained from her research and studies to
clarifying that nonprofit entities like partisan bill that passed unanimously help students obtain academic excel-
501(c)(3) facilities in NeoCity are also out of the Natural Resources Com- lence.
eligible for funding under the semicon- mittee, include a 5-year authorization, She has worked many years with
ductor incentive program. with the explicit focus on restoration civil rights organizations to improve
We are helping with aerospace there. activities where natural disasters and the school system for Black people. Her
We are starting to work with commer- human activities have degraded reef focus has been on changing unfair dis-
cial space like NASA and SpaceX and ecosystems. This program is currently ciplinary practices, seeking solutions
Blue Origin. funded at $33 million for 2021, but with- to low academic performance and low
The bill also includes my second out further direction from Congress. test scores, as well as the lack of diver-
amendment. We know that we are It creates a block grant program sity in hiring practices.
boosting forward on artificial intel- where States and territories can re- Dr. Bellamy is the founder and direc-
ligence. We need to make sure, as we ceive Federal matching funds for the tor of Chain of Lakes Achievers, a com-
are doing that and seeing more autono- prior year’s coral expenditures pro- munity tutorial program. COLA was
mous vehicles and other artificial in- vided they have an action plan in designed to assist the schools in im-
telligence uses, we are training our place, so we are getting action plans in proving students’ grades and test
labor force ahead of time for the jobs of place which will incentivize, increase scores.
today and tomorrow. State and local investment in coral Dr. Bellamy has worked in partner-
That is why I am proud that the AI reef management capacity. ship with government officials at all
JOBS Act passed as an amendment and We are also helping intergovern- levels to improve Black neighborhoods.
directs the Department of Labor to cre- mental partnerships that are key for She has been instrumental in bringing
ate a report analyzing the future of our water infrastructure upgrades, pollu- about changes that include installing
artificial intelligence and its impacts tion mitigation efforts, and regrowing sidewalks and speed bumps, creating
on the American workforce. reefs. It allows for the formation of recreational programs, increasing
Specifically, the report would collect public-private partnerships for coral sewer connections, decreasing criminal
data to analyze which industries are management called Coral Reef Stew- activities, upgrading housing, replac-
projected to have the most growth ardship Partnerships. Public-private ing houses, constructing a restoration
through artificial intelligence and the partnerships are critical for sharing re- park, assisting businesses, and more.
demographics which may experience search. She has contributed to the commu-
expanded career opportunities and It also authorizes the U.S. Coral Reef nity by providing housing and employ-
those most vulnerable to job displace- Task Force to ensure States, terri- ment as an entrepreneur. Dr. Bellamy
ment. This is an inclusion of our stand- tories, and other stakeholders continue has also served as a housing commis-

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alone bill, H.R. 6553, the AI JOBS Act. to have a voice in U.S. coral reef man- sioner. She is presently affiliated with
Thirdly, we were able to include an agement. Public feedback is essential. the Hurst Chapel AME, FAMU alumni,
amendment for the blockchain and It establishes a single streamlined NAACP, and the Concerned Citizens of
cryptocurrency specialists within the set of guidelines for action plans to im- Polk County.
Office of Science and Technology Pol- plement the national strategy, with Dr. Bellamy has received recognition
icy. The Director of the Office of maximum flexibility given to State from the National Coalition of 100

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February 2, 2022 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H907
Black Women, Polk County Chapter, HONORING KIMBERLY SAUNDERS and advancing the field of nursing.
Inc., the NAACP, COLA, Chain of Mr. SOTO. In honor of Black History From 2007 to 2014, she engaged with the
Lakes Achievers, and Jewett High Month, I would like to recognize Kim- city of Orlando Office of Community
School Alumni Association, Inc. She berly Saunders. Kimberly Saunders is Affairs to improve social determinants
also received the key to the city of in her fourth year serving as president of health in at-risk populations. During
Winter Haven, Florida. of the Central Florida chapter of the that time, she became a volunteer on
For this and more, Dr. Faye Bellamy, National Black MBA Association, Inc., the citizens’ review panel for the city
we honor you. a not-for-profit organization whose of Orlando. Her leadership was the key
HONORING DR. EUGENIA AGARD mission is to lead in the creation of driver in mobilizing low-income fami-
Mr. SOTO. In honor of Black History educational, wealth building, and lies to mainstream society along with
Month, I would like to recognize Dr. growth opportunities for those histori- the collaborations of nonprofit, faith-
Eugenia Agard. Dr. Agard’s values have cally underrepresented through their based, business, and governmental en-
a direct impact on influencing her de- careers as students, entrepreneurs, and tities.
sire to assist communities in crisis. professionals. Ms. Taylor is a founding member and
Therefore, it is imperative that she Since 2015, she has served in various president of Black Nurses Rock Or-
provide services to aid in alleviating volunteer capacities, such as partner- lando. She is also a board member of
debilitating conditions. ships chair, vice president of oper- the Black Nurses Rock Foundation,
Dr. Agard established and operates a ations, and a continuing role as a men- where she has served as the director of
private practice, HUGS. Her treatment tor for the Leaders of Tomorrow pro- chapter development for 23 chapters
model is to treat the whole person. Dr. gram, which serves high school stu- across the United States. Ms. Taylor
Agard’s areas of specialty are treating dents in the areas of leadership, college was recognized as the Black Nurses
patients suffering from anxiety, depres- and career preparation, financial lit- Rock Foundation Leader of the Year in
sion, PTSD, and physical health issues eracy, and life skills. 2018.
co-occurring with depression. She has been instrumental in devel- Community advocacy has always
Dr. Agard is a very passionate speak- oping corporate partnerships, securing been a priority for Melody. She will
er and a facilitator of education health grants, fund-raising, and facilitating continue to empower and inspire inno-
forums and workshops to promote programs to provide the organization vative leaders to advance in the field of
healthy living from the inside out. Dr. with resources to serve its members nursing and promote preventative
Agard continuously hosts health fo- and community through the central health to decrease healthcare dispari-
rums free of charge for the community Florida region. ties in vulnerable communities.
and schools to prevent barriers to Her dedication and service to the or- Melody is the middle child of five
healthcare, from providing topics fo- ganization and its mission were recog- children and the mother to a handsome
cused on the prevention of hyper- nized in 2021, as she was one of two son named John and a beautiful daugh-
tension, diabetes, STDs, obesity, breast awardees for Chapter President of the ter named Katia. She has six beautiful
cancer, bullying, and more. Year by the national organization, grandchildren: Drevion, Keonte, Sin-
Dr. Agard works diligently to abate which currently has 41 chapters nation- cere, Harmonie, Jayla, and Jaliyah.
the stigma of mental health. Dr. Agard wide. Melody will continue her volunteer
educates the community on signs and Professionally, Kimberly has spent service to build a better community for
symptoms of mental health treatment the last 11 years in the financial serv- the citizens living in central Florida
and support options. Dr. Agard has al- ices industry. She is a managing part- and advance the field of nursing across
ways been on the front line to provide ner for VestWyze, LLC, a State of Flor- the globe.
crisis counseling services during both ida registered investment advisory For this and more, Melody Taylor,
regional crises and world crises. company. In her role as an investment we honor you.
During the Pulse nightclub shooting,
adviser and certified financial planner HONORING CAROL BRADLEY
she provided free and confidential
professional, she serves her clients’ Mr. SOTO. In honor of Black History
counseling to many of the victims and
best interests by providing sound and Month, I would like to recognize Offi-
organized healing forums in Osceola
knowledgeable advice. cer Carol Bradley. Officer Carol Brad-
County for everyone impacted by this
Kimberly also serves as a board mem- ley has proudly served and protected
act of terrorism.
Furthermore, during the COVID–19 ber for the Goldsboro Front Porch the citizens of Winter Haven, Florida,
pandemic, Dr. Agard immediately of- Council, a Florida-designated commu- for 30 years.
fered counseling services to frontline nity. She is also a member of the local Officer Bradley served in the U.S.
workers, creating solutions for self chapter of the National Alumni Asso- Army from 1980 to 1983. In 1986, she de-
care, prevention of burnout, and anx- ciation for Florida Agricultural and cided to follow her dreams and began
iety and depression reduction tech- Mechanical University, otherwise her journey in law enforcement. From
niques. known as FAMU, where she earned her 1986 to 1991, she worked as a correc-
For the general public, Dr. Agard im- bachelor of science in management and tions officer at Polk Correctional Insti-
mediately created a free community master of business administration. tution.
outreach forum, HUGS Healing Hour, At the core of Kimberly’s heart are After working with PCI for 5 years,
via Zoom for individuals and organiza- her faith and family. She hopes to con- she decided to take her dream a step
tions to restore the sense of commu- tinue to positively impact lives person- further and began her career with the
nity amongst the isolation and depres- ally and professional. Winter Haven Police Department as
sion. She provided therapeutic coping For this and more, Kimberly Saun- the first African American female com-
skills to combat depression and anx- ders, we honor you. munity service officer for the city of
iety and assisted children being home HONORING MELODY TAYLOR Winter Haven.
schooled. Mr. SOTO. In honor of Black History Officer Bradley immensely enjoys
Dr. Agard continues to educate the Month, I would like to recognize Mel- serving as a good will ambassador for
community on COVID–19, creating fo- ody Taylor. Melody Taylor is a board- the city of Winter Haven and bridging
rums on support, exploring fiction certified registered nurse with years of the gap between the city police and the
versus fact, and problem-solving vac- experience in the healthcare industry. citizens in the community. In 1993 she
cination hesitancy. She has earned a master of science in transitioned from a civilian position to
Dr. Agard serves in leadership roles nursing leadership and management. a sworn officer position.
on many community agencies, boards, She is currently pursuing a doctoral She was promoted to patrol officer II

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and organizations. She serves as health degree in nursing. Melody serves as a in October of 1997. She then was award-
chair and health director of a nonprofit nurse leader at Orlando Health. ed the chief accommodation for out-
where she provides medical supplies to Ms. Taylor is recognized as a dedi- standing service to her community in
poor areas to prevent the loss of life. cated community and nurse advocate, January of 2001.
For this and more, Dr. Eugenia having led many initiatives empow- She enjoys serving her community
Agard, we honor you. ering low-income families to succeed through her church activities. She also

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H908 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 2, 2022
received the Optimist Club award for cated its employee events building as ther King Jr. Initiative, Truist Advi-
her distinguished services. the Reginald Hardee Employee Pavil- sory Board, Orlando Economic Partner-
She received several letters of ac- ion, honoring his decade of service. ship Board, United Arts Board, and
commodation from the community in Reginald was also recognized by the Florida Association of Chamber Profes-
2009. In addition, she received the bu- Kissimmee City Commission with a sionals.
reau accommodation for the protection proclamation. In 2021, Tanisha was named as one of
of residential property in February of Reginald received the Distinguished the Orlando Business Journal’s CEOs of
2010. Leadership and Service Award from the Year and 50 Central Florida Power
Officer Bradley received the Circle of Osceola Visionaries for positively im- Players. Additionally, the Orlando
Love award for the Ridge Career Center pacting the community in the spirit of Magic recognized Tanisha as a home-
for contributions to single mothers and the teachings and example of Dr. Mar- town hero and a social justice game
the homeless. tin Luther King, Jr. changer.
She was promoted to master officer Reginald is also a recipient of the Tanisha is also a member of Jack and
in May of 2017. American Public Power Association Jill of America, Inc., the Orlando chap-
Mentoring the youth in the Orrin Spence Vanderlinden Public Official ter of The Links, Inc., and a life mem-
Circle community was a rewarding ex- Award. ber of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, In-
perience as well. Hardee is a native of Kissimmee, corporated.
Making history once again in 1998, born to a midwife on Kissimmee’s Lake A graduate of Spelman College and
Officer Bradley became the first HUD Street. Reginald is a veteran of the the Quinnipiac University School of
and homeless coalition officer for the Army Reserves, a University of Florida Law, Tanisha enjoys traveling, read-
city of Winter Haven. Implementing alumnus, and a graduate of Florida ing, baking, and spending time with
that homeless program as an officer State University’s public manager pro- her son.
was also very rewarding for her. gram. For this and more, Tanisha Nunn
From 2006 to 2018, Officer Bradley For this and more, Mr. Reginald Gary, we honor you.
worked in Winter Haven’s public Hardee, we honor you. HONORING TONY JENKINS
schools as a school resource officer. HONORING TANISHA NUNN GARY Mr. SOTO. Madam Speaker, in honor
She also worked with two other offi- Mr. SOTO. Madam Speaker, in honor of Black History Month, I recognize
cers in the DARE program within the of Black History Month, I recognize Tony Jenkins.
elementary schools. Tanisha Nunn Gary. Tony Jenkins is the Florida Blue
Officer Bradley ended her career as a A consummate business professional market president for the central Flor-
law enforcement officer with Winter and accomplished attorney, Tanisha ida region, where he provides strategic
Haven on December 27, 2021, yielding a Nunn Gary is the president and CEO of oversight and leads a team in devel-
total amount of 35 years as a law en- the African American Chamber of Com- oping business plans to increase and re-
forcement officer. merce of Central Florida, a leading ad- tain membership, enhance brand visi-
Officer Bradley is married to her vocate for business development and bility, and coordinate employee en-
spouse, Terry Bradley. They have two economic empowerment. gagement.
daughters, one son, and two grand- As head of the established nonprofit, Tony was instrumental in estab-
daughters. Tanisha is responsible for cultivating lishing Florida Blue’s diversity efforts
For this and more, Officer Carol strong relationships with key commu- in 2001. Prior to joining Florida Blue,
Bradley, we honor you. nity leaders and corporate entities to Jenkins served as the director of diver-
b 1900 enhance opportunities for members and sity for CSX Corporation, the largest
engage partners on initiatives. rail network in the Eastern United
HONORING REGINALD HARDEE Tanisha oversees all outreach efforts States. He also spent 18 years with the
Mr. SOTO. Madam Speaker, in honor for the chamber, which encompasses Walt Disney World Company in various
of Black History Month, I recognize six counties, and she executes strategic leadership roles, specializing in diver-
Reginald Hardee. planning to ensure the chamber’s voice sity, equity, and inclusion.
Reginald Hardee is the information is included in economic, education, and Under Tony’s leadership in central
technology leader for Florida’s Turn- community conversations that impact Florida, Florida Blue has been recog-
pike Enterprise and has more than 22 the region. nized as a Best Place to Work, an out-
years of State government experience The AACCCF boasts a varied mem- standing diverse corporation, and a
with a focus on strategic planning, bership and revolves around four pil- corporate philanthropy honoree.
budgeting, building, and leading sup- lars: advocacy, access to capital, con- Tony is an advocate for several
port and development teams in a pub- tracts, and entrepreneur training and causes throughout the Orlando commu-
lic-sector setting. development. As a former business nity. He is the past chair for United
Reginald earned the Ben G. Watts owner, Tanisha is intimately familiar Arts of Central Florida and the Florida
Leader of the Year for the authority in with what it takes to thrive as an en- Commission on Human Relations. Tony
2020. Reginald currently serves as a trepreneur and is uniquely qualified to currently serves on the board of Flor-
member of the board of directors for lead the AACCCF into its next chapter ida Citrus Sports and is a board trustee
the Osceola County Council on Aging, of growth. at Stetson University.
the Osceola Historical Society, and a Prior to being named president of the Tony is chair-elect for the Orlando
member of the City of Kissimmee Fire AACCCF, she was the principal of a pri- Economic Partnership board, where he
Pension Board. vate law firm focused on all aspects of also serves as chair for their DEI task
Reginald also serves the community litigation for wrongful death cases and force, engaging Orlando’s business
as a member and officer of Bethel AME medical negligence. Her solo practice leaders across varied industries.
Church, NAACP, Kissimmee Masonic and early work as a senior associate for Tony has been recognized by the Or-
Lodge 68, and Alpha Phi Alpha Frater- Gary, Williams, Parenti, Watson & lando Business Journal as one of cen-
nity, Inc. Gary landed multimillion-dollar settle- tral Florida’s Top 10 Businessmen to
Reginald has served for 10 years as a ments. Watch and CEO of the Year. Most re-
member of the board of directors for In addition to her legal prowess, cently, Tony received the publication’s
the Kissimmee Utility Authority and Tanisha served as the executive direc- Diversity in Business Lifetime
was elected to serve as KUA chairman tor of The Gary Foundation, where she Achievement Award. Tony is also an I–
in 2013, a role he served for 4 years. He identified major donor prospects to 4 Business Magazine Business Leader of

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was the first African American to serve help provide scholarships to Florida the Year award recipient.
on the KUA board. youth. Tony holds a bachelor of arts in hos-
The Kissimmee Utility Authority Tanisha is an active member of sev- pitality management from Morris
board of directors established an elec- eral civic and professional associa- Brown College in Atlanta, Georgia.
trical line worker scholarship in the tions, including the Orange County For this and more, Tony Jenkins, we
name of Reginald Hardee and rededi- Mayor Jerry Demings Dr. Martin Lu- honor you.

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February 2, 2022 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H909
HONORING MARECIA JEFFERSON-LIAS HONORING VALPARISA J. BAKER uary 4, 2021, the Chair recognizes the
Mr. SOTO. Madam Speaker, in honor Mr. SOTO. Madam Speaker, in honor gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr.
of Black History Month, I recognize of Black History Month, I recognize PERRY) for 30 minutes.
Marecia Jefferson-Lias. Valparisa J. Baker. GENERAL LEAVE
Hailing from the great city of Quin- Valparisa J. Baker, a native Flo- Mr. PERRY. Madam Speaker, I ask
cy, Florida, Marecia Jefferson-Lias is ridian, most recently served as the unanimous consent that all Members
the daughter of Wilbert Sr. and Janie chief diversity officer at Polk State may have 5 legislative days to revise
Jefferson. College. Prior to her recent retirement, and extend their remarks and submit
Ms. Baker was employed with the col- extraneous material.
Her father’s successful fruit con-
lege since 1988, where she held multiple The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there
tracting business brought the family to
positions of advancement. objection to the request of the gen-
Polk County, Florida, where Marecia
Ms. Baker has a master’s degree in tleman from Pennsylvania?
embarked on an amazing journey of
higher education from the National- There was no objection.
academic excellence. After graduating
Louis University, a bachelor’s degree
from Effingham County High School in b 1915
from the University of Central Florida,
Savannah, Georgia, Marecia returned Mr. PERRY. Madam Speaker, ladies
and an associate’s degree from Polk
to Florida and enrolled in Polk Com- and gentlemen, yesterday, the House
State College.
munity College, now Polk State Col- Ms. Baker has a strong commitment Freedom Caucus held an offsite
lege. to her church, the New Antioch Mis- unsanctioned hearing on our cir-
Marecia received an associate’s de- sionary Baptist Church, where she cumstances at the border.
gree in liberal arts. Marecia then ma- serves as an active first lady. Ms. Now, we did that because we can’t
triculated to the all-mighty Bethune Baker serves as the chairperson for the have a hearing right here in the Cap-
Cookman College, now Bethune education scholarship ministry, adviser itol. It is not allowed. The majority
Cookman University, receiving a bach- for the women intermediate ministry, won’t allow us to talk about it, doesn’t
elor’s degree in education. pastor’s aide ministry, and media min- want to talk about it themselves.
If the phrase ‘‘can’t stop, won’t stop’’ istry. We are expecting the State of the
was a person, then Marecia would be Ms. Baker is the newly appointed Union Address from the President in
the titleholder of that mantra. Marecia vice president for the ministers’ wives about a month, and I suspect he won’t
continued her studies at the University and ministers’ widows of the First talk about it then either. But the
of South Florida, receiving a master of South Florida Missionary Baptist Dis- American people want to talk about it.
education in organizational leadership. trict Association. They want to know about it, and they
Marecia took her educational talent Ms. Baker has received numerous ci- deserve to know about it. It is hap-
to the Polk County School Board, tations and awards from area organiza- pening in their country.
where she spent 16 years as a certified tions. Most recently, she received the Madam Speaker, Article II, Section 3
educator, holding various positions 2021 Drum Major for Justice Award pre- of the Constitution says that the Presi-
such as elementary teacher, reading sented by the Haines City NAACP, was dent shall faithfully execute the laws.
coach, medical academy director, and the 2021 Juneteenth honoree for the We have laws on the books, passed in
health science clinical nurse and in- Juneteenth Observance Lakeland Com- the House, sent to the Senate, and rati-
structor. mittee, as well as the 2018 Distin- fied with a signature by the President
Marecia’s gift of being an educator guished Citizen for the Greater Tampa of the United States that are being vio-
and a nurturer allowed her to receive Bay Area Council Boy Scouts of Amer- lated. They are being violated—not
her bachelor’s degree in nursing from ica. just disregarded—but actively violated
Polk State College. Marecia went to Ms. Baker is a graduate of the Na- by the President of the United States.
Florida Southern College and obtained tional Council of Black American Af- Actively violated. What does that
her master’s degree in nursing, special- fairs Leadership Program, Florida mean? What is that? What would you
izing as a family nurse practitioner. Chancellor’s Leadership Program, Win- call it when the Chief Executive Offi-
Marecia is currently matriculating her ter Haven Chamber of Commerce Lead- cer, the President of the United States,
doctorate at the same college, with a ership, Winter Haven Class XX, and who takes an oath to uphold and de-
projected completion date of 2023. Polk Vision Leadership Polk Class v. fend the Constitution and the law of
Ms. Baker is very active in civic groups the land, not only disregards them but
Mrs. Jefferson-Lias truly lives by the
and serves on numerous boards, includ- actively works to subvert them? What
words ‘‘divinely speaking life one
ing the Florence Villa Community De- do you call that? I will let you decide
breath at a time.’’ Not only has
velopment Center, Polk Vision LIFT that.
Marecia achieved everything that she We learned a lot of things at the
has set her mind to possess, but she is Mentor Leadership Council, and the
City of Winter Haven Juneteenth hearing. It was a great time. One of the
also the epitome of a leader, advocate, things that you might not know as the
nurturer, and mentor. Her compassion Steering Committee.
Ms. Baker has a strong passion for Speaker’s designee, as citizens, is that
for people and helping others stems there is an organization, the Inter-
from a generational line of educators equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Through Ms. Baker’s community in- national Organization for Migration
and nurses, including a great-grand- within the United Nations, the United
mother who was a nurse-midwife. volvement, she continues her commit-
ment to equity, diversity, and inclu- Nations that your tax dollars pay for.
The same dedication Marecia carries We don’t know how much it spends on
sion for all.
as a nurse and community leader al- IOM, but the IOM is counseling people
Ms. Baker enjoys spending time with
lowed her to recognize the need for to come across our border illegally,
her family and traveling. She and her
more nurses and nursing assistants. counseling them so they can subvert
husband of 34 years, Reverend Derrick
Marecia started a company that offers the laws that your duly-elected legisla-
L. Baker, have two children, Stephen
training and prep courses for nurses ture has passed, have been signed by
and Marquitta, and two grandsons,
during the pandemic since that void the President and should be enforced
Gavin and Malachi.
needs to be filled in her community. For this and more, Ms. Valparisa J. by the executive branch.
Marecia currently is the owner of Di- Baker, we honor you. And you are paying. Your tax dollars
vine Essential Medical Academy, LLC, Madam Speaker, I yield back the bal- are going to pay for people to break the
as well as other business ventures. ance of my time. law to come into your country ille-

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Marecia is a blessed wife, mother, f gally, up to 2 million—probably over 2
and godmother. Marecia is an inspira- million—that the border has touched in
tion to her family, friends, and commu- SECURING THE SOUTHERN the last year. Who knows how many
nity. BORDER there are that they haven’t even
For that and more, Marecia Jeffer- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under interacted with? And that is just 1
son-Lias, we honor you. the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- year.

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