[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 142 (Thursday, September 22, 2011)]
[House]
[Page H6357]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                              {time}  1220
                        WE LOVE OUR CARRIE MEEK

  (Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN asked and was given permission to address the House 
for 1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
  Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor an 
extraordinary woman, a dedicated public servant, and a dear friend: 
Congresswoman Carrie Meek. Carrie has lived a life of distinction, and 
her legacy is extensive and incredible.
  The granddaughter of a slave, Carrie became the first African 
American woman to serve in the Florida Senate. My husband, Dexter 
Lehtinen, and I had the honor of serving with Carrie in the Florida 
House and then in the Florida Senate, and then Carrie went on to become 
the first African American from Florida since Reconstruction elected to 
Congress. What an honor.
  While in Congress, Carrie worked vigorously and resolutely for her 
constituents in all of south Florida, playing an instrumental role in 
rebuilding our community after the devastation of Hurricane Andrew.
  Her accomplishments and service to our south Florida community are 
too many to be enumerated; however, she hasn't rested on her laurels. 
Since leaving this Chamber, she continues her commitment to service 
through The Carrie Meek Foundation.
  I ask my colleagues to join us today in paying tribute to our dear 
friend, Congresswoman Carrie Meek.

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