[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 4 (Monday, January 8, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E11]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          IN HONOR OF LAKELAND MAYOR HOWARD WIGGS'S RETIREMENT

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                          HON. DENNIS A. ROSS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, January 8, 2018

  Mr. ROSS. Mr. Speaker, some people want to be something. Some people 
want to do something. Lakeland Mayor Howard Wiggs has been a doer for 
our community, a leader, and perhaps most important, a friendly 
neighbor. For 25 years, Mayor Wiggs has reformed local government, 
inspired residents to get more involved, and cut more ribbons than 
anyone can count. And while that last part may sound ceremonial, it's 
not: He got to cut those ribbons because during his tenure, and with 
his leadership, Lakeland has flourished with tremendous growth, 
economic development and revitalization, and the expansion and 
improvement of critical public infrastructure. Now, as we bid him a 
happy retirement, he should know: We all love Lakeland, and Mayor 
Wiggs, through his wisdom and discernment, has made it even more 
lovable.
  Our nation's prosperity relies on the strength of strong local 
governance, and for 25 years, Mayor Wiggs has made his corner of 
America that much stronger. It has been my privilege to work with Mayor 
Wiggs, both as a Member of the Florida House of Representatives and now 
in the United States House of Representatives. He has been a stalwart 
advocate for common sense, for decency, and for hard work. I know that 
my wife Cindy and I will always have him and his wife Linda in our 
hearts and prayers for continued blessing, good health, and God's favor 
for the future. We thank him for his service, and wish him all the 
best.

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