[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 96 (Thursday, June 16, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E946]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





             IN REMEMBRANCE OF JASON BENJAMIN JOSAPHAT BEBE

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                          HON. KYRSTEN SINEMA

                               of arizona

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 16, 2016

  Ms. SINEMA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember Jason Benjamin 
Josaphat Bebe, a 2014 graduate of Skyline High School in Mesa, Arizona. 
Jason was the oldest son of Myrlande Bebe and Jackson Josaphat and a 
beloved nephew, brother, and friend.
  On Sunday, June 12, 2016, Jason's life was cut tragically short in a 
hateful act of terror at Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida that 
claimed his life and 48 others. He was just 19 years old. We join all 
Americans in grieving this senseless loss.
  At Skyline High School, Jason was a popular and active student, 
involved in both the hip-hop dance club and the spirit squad. Friends 
and classmates described him as a goofball, full of energy and 
optimism, and with a contagious and persistent smile that could light 
up a room. He was computer savvy, had a passion for physical fitness, 
and took a great interest in photography.
  Jason was a bright and talented student that strived to help others 
succeed academically. After graduating from Skyline, he enrolled at 
Southern Technical College in Florida. He graduated from their business 
office specialist program just two weeks before his death. Jason had 
enrolled at Valencia College to continue his education by studying 
computer science.
  Friends, family, former classmates, and hundreds of community members 
gathered on Wednesday in Mesa to celebrate Jason's life. In the years 
he spent in Arizona, it is clear he made a positive impact on so many. 
We were fortunate to have him for the short time that we did.
  Mr. Speaker, Jason deserved a long, fulfilling life with the richness 
of experience that the rest of us hope for for ourselves and for our 
children. We stand together with Jason's family and friends in solemn 
remembrance.

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