[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 112 (Thursday, July 9, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E660]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         HONORING ELIJAH WELLS

                                  _____
                                 

                        HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, July 9, 2026

  Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and 
congratulate 14-year-old Elijah Wells for his artistic contributions to 
Miami Dade County.
  This year, Elijah Wells successfully submitted his first short film, 
``The Gift,'' to the American Black Film Festival Community Showcase. 
He wrote, casted, and directed ``The Gift'' on his own and his short 
film will be screened at the American Black Film Festival Community 
Showcase on June 24, 2012.
  Aside from successfully completing his first short film, Mr. Wells 
has accomplished many other feats. In November 2011, he received ``The 
Clint Eastwood Award.'' This award honored his achievements in acting 
and directing. Mr. Wells has also had the opportunity to hone his 
directing skills under the mentorship of film visionaries, like Reggie 
Scott and Steve Drayton.
  Mr. Wells' artistic and directorial works, especially his film ``The 
Gift,'' are not only personal accomplishment but one the entire 
community can be proud of. The American Black Film Festival Community 
Showcase is sponsored by the Southeast Overtown/Parkwest Community 
Redevelopment Agency, which fosters and displays the talents of our 
youth. Mr. Wells' accomplishments are a testament to the agency's 
importance in our community.
  Mr. Wells' passion for taking pictures, which started at the age of 
ten, has developed into a defined career path that promises to take him 
to places and heights beyond his imagination.
  Please join me in honoring Elijah Wells for his artistic 
accomplishment and his unwavering commitment to the advancement of the 
arts in the community of Miami Dade.

                          ____________________