Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, in honor of Black History Month, I recognize Lemuel Geathers. Mr. Lemuel Geathers, from the historic Pughsville neighborhood of Winter Haven, Florida, served as the city's first African American Commissioner and Mayor. He was also the special assistant to Congressman Andy Ireland. He is a World War II veteran, and served as an electrician in the Navy. In 1954, he went on to receive a Bachelor of Science degree in industrial arts and education from Florida A&M University. He spent 28 years as a teacher in Polk County, and one of his greatest accomplishments was serving on the committee to establish a junior college in Winter Haven, Florida, now known as Polk State College, because he knew the importance of receiving a good education. He has served on the Central Florida Regional Planning Council, Winter Haven Hospital Board, Polk County Industrial Bonding Board, Polk County Master Planning Committee, and was chairman of the city's Human Relations Committee. Mr. Geathers was also the first African American chairman of the Democratic Executive Committee in Polk County. He has been affiliated with the National Education Association, American Legion, NAACP, Boys and Girls Club, and Optimist Club. His wife, Juanita Geathers, is a retired educator and former secretary of the Florida Democratic Party. They have six children and nine grandchildren, all college educated. And for that, Mr. Lemuel Geathers, we honor you. Recognizing George Brooks”