[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 118 (Friday, July 31, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2149]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               HONORING THE MEMORY OF CAROL BROOKS CASEY

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JO BONNER

                               of alabama

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, July 31, 2009

  Mr. BONNER. Madam Speaker, the city of Mexia and indeed all of Monroe 
County recently lost a dear friend, and I rise today to honor her and 
pay tribute to her memory. Carol Brooks Casey was a beloved citizen 
with a long and distinguished record of community service.
  Carol, a renowned radio announcer, began her 32-year broadcasting 
career in 1977 at WMFC station in Monroeville. Although she initially 
professed a disinterest in radio, Carol possessed self-confidence, 
determination, and graciousness that earned her the affectionate title 
``The Voice of Monroe County.'' Her radiant presence brought joy to 
those with whom she worked and earned her ``star status'' among her 
frequent listeners.
  A leader for a host of philanthropic causes, Carol was honored by the 
local Kiwanis Club as its ``2008 Citizen of the Year.'' She served as 
chairwoman for the Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade, was one of the 
organizers of Excel's Pioneer Days, established a Christmas toy drive 
for children, and helped promote the national Angel Tree organization. 
She was also an active member in a number of civic organizations, 
including: the American Cancer Society, Peddlin' for a Cure, the 
American Red Cross, Kiwanis Club of Monroeville, and the Monroeville/
Monroe Chamber of Commerce, among others. She also organized the first 
Veteran's Day Parade in Monroe County in 2007.
  Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in remembering a 
dedicated community leader, a generous friend, and an inspirational 
voice for Monroe County and Southwest Alabama. Carol will be dearly 
missed by her family--her husband, Mike Casey; her son, Calvin Casey; 
her daughter, Adrienne Casey; her three sisters, Helen Tucker, Land 
Watford, and Wanda Brooks; and her brothers, Mike Brooks and Cliff 
Brooks--as well as the countless friends and devoted listeners she 
leaves behind.
  Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time.
  Madam Speaker, I ask that the following poem--written by Reverend 
Wayne McMillian, pastor of the Mexia Baptist Church, as a tribute to 
Carol--be entered into the Congressional Record:

                          A Voice in the Wind

     The Morning Dove arose with the dew
     Her voice on the wind like pigeon flew
     Bringing music, joy, and laughter she knew
     Would brighten a dull and somber world.

     She knew us well, that voice on the wind
     The hand she held of many a friend
     Through concerts, charities and raffles send
     Help to the needy in this crippled world.

     Now the Morning Dove from here has flown
     Her voice on the wind, in a celestial dome
     Yet the Waves she rode right here at home
     Will be her legacy in that perfect world.

                          ____________________