[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 1 (Tuesday, January 6, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E17]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            RECOGNIZING VERA BRYANT OF BROOKSVILLE, FLORIDA

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. GINNY BROWN-WAITE

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, January 6, 2009

  Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to 
honor Vera Bryant of Hernando County, Florida. Vera will do something 
later this year that all of us strive to do, but that very few of us 
will ever accomplish, celebrate her 100th birthday.
  Vera Bryant was born May 7, 1909, in Twin Lakes, Florida. A native 
Floridian, she married her sweetheart Robert Bryant and together they 
had two beautiful children, both girls. After finishing school, Vera 
worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant for 33 years while raising her 
two children.
  A dedicated church member that gives her much happiness in life, Vera 
attends the Bethlehem Progressive Baptist Church where she is the 
oldest member. Today she spends much of her time visiting with her 
family and her church. At one time, Vera enjoyed delivering the Tampa 
Tribune, where she had her own paper route. Vera said she did a lot of 
volunteer work and was a Lilly White Convention Member and sang in the 
Church Choir.
  Vera's proudest moments now are having time to spend with all of her 
grand, great- and great-great-grandchildren. She also has many 
wonderful memories of riding her father's horses. Vera's advice to 
young people today is to be sure to get a good education and make 
something of their lives.
  Madam Speaker, I ask that you join me in honoring Vera Bryant for 
reaching her 100th birthday. I hope we all have the good fortune to 
live as long as her.

                          ____________________