[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 37 (Thursday, March 1, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E243]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                      REMEMBERING MS. JO ANN FLIRT

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BRADLEY BYRNE

                               of alabama

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 1, 2018

  Mr. BYRNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember the life and legacy 
of Ms. Jo Ann Flirt. Jo Ann was a vibrant member of the Mobile 
community. To me, Jo Ann was a dear and trusted friend.
  Jo Ann attended both undergraduate and graduate school at the 
University of Alabama, where she went on to teach journalism and public 
relations. Upon returning to Mobile, she was a founding member and 
former president of the Press Club of Mobile and a founding member of 
the Mississippi-Alabama chapter of the Public Relations Society of 
Alabama.
  Jo Ann was known for her immeasurable work ethic. She started two 
businesses in Mobile, the Public Relations Counsel Inc., an advertising 
and public relations firm, and the Mobile Record, a daily legal 
publication with real estate and other civil business news. She also 
founded a group called Alabamians Behind Local Education with the 
purpose of peacefully integrating schools in Alabama.
  Jo Ann was also a passionate advocate and champion for historic 
Blakeley State Park, where she served as director for almost fifteen 
years. It would not be a surprise to see Jo Ann out working on various 
projects at Blakeley, in addition to her administrative tasks. As a 
true testament to her character, Jo Ann was regularly called upon to 
serve in her community and was well known for her determined, caring 
spirit.
  Sadly, Jo Ann passed away on February 2, 2018 at the age of 85. So, 
to her family and friends who will miss her dearly, I want to extend my 
deepest sympathies and condolences. May they take comfort in the warm 
memories of Jo Ann and the lasting impact she had on so many.

                          ____________________