[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 170 (Wednesday, September 30, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E902-E903]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       CONGRATULATING BILL BECKER

                                 ______
                                 

                      HON. DEBBIE MUCARSEL-POWELL

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 30, 2020

  Ms. MUCARSEL-POWELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Bill 
Becker on his 30 years of remarkable service to the Florida Keys-based 
U.S. 1 Radio 104.1 FM and to our community.
  Bill began his career with U.S. 1 Radio in 1980 when the news station 
had just established itself. He served as the news director, where he 
broadcasted local news, and hosted U.S. 1's 90-minute ``Morning 
Magazine'' every morning to highlight local issues and events through 
on-air interviews and commentary.
  His passion and devotion to marine biology first led him to the 
Florida Keys and is what jumpstarted his career in radio. After 
graduating in 1971, Bill began working at the Lower Keys' Newfound 
Harbor Marine Institute at Sea Camp. He taught marine biology to kids, 
through outreach programs and became involved in local organizations. 
Bill co-founded one of the Lower Keys' signature events: the annual 
Underwater Music Festival that spotlights coral reef preservation. 
Every year the event draws hundreds of diving and snorkeling 
enthusiasts, as well as national and international media coverage.

[[Page E903]]

  With his unyielding dedication to his community, Bill's work has left 
a tremendous impact in numerous people's lives. He volunteered his time 
during the 1998 Hurricane Georges to offer comfort and critical live 
updates throughout the storm. Bill partook in broadcasts in Cuba as 
part of humanitarian efforts led by a local group taking essential 
medical supplies and food to the island nation. In 1982, Bill 
broadcasted live from Key West's Mallory Square when the Florida Keys 
seceded from the Union and formed the independent Conch Republic. Aside 
from his hard work in broadcasting, Bill also dedicated his time to the 
community of the Lower Keys by serving as the president of the Lower 
Keys Chamber of Commerce.
  Through all these accomplishments, Bill made himself a pillar of the 
Keys community and his retirement marks the end of an era. Bill 
embodies the hard working, community-minded nature that the Florida 
Keys is known for. On behalf of Florida's 26th District, I would like 
to thank Bill for his contribution to the community and wish him the 
absolute best in this next chapter of his life.

                          ____________________