Carrie Meek: “I rise to pay tribute to Mr. Ralph McCartney, who resides in Overtown, FL in the 17th Congressional District of Florida.…”

“I rise to pay tribute to Mr. Ralph McCartney, who resides in Overtown, FL in the 17th Congressional District of Florida. Mr. McCartney, a community activist, is the last of eight children born to Lillian and Leon McCartney. He has been and is a major contributor to the community of Overtown. Mr. McCartney may be best known for his eloquence in reciting great works of literature, however, his most outstanding contributions are from working behind the scenes. Of the many contributions that he has made to greater Miami, three McCartney activities have had, and will continue to have positive impacts on the people for years to come. First, there is the Edison Park Elementary I-95 Overpass. As a result of the relentless efforts of Mr. McCartney, the Edison Park Elementary I-95 Overpass was constructed. Young children no longer have to face the death-defying temptations of taking a short-cut across I-95 to get to school. Second, the U.S. Department of Defense Race Relations Institute. Because of the success of this program, those individuals who came through the Miami experience have a much more significant appreciation and understanding of their role in making America and the military a better place for all. And third, the rebuilding of the Booker T. Washington School. The tireless work of Mr. McCartney, the late Dr. Johnny Jones, the school board, and the community, led to the successful rebuilding of the school.”