Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate my constituent Helen Witty on being named the national president of Mothers Against Drunk Driving, also known as MADD. Helen, along with her husband, John, experienced the ultimate tragedy when their 16-year-old daughter, Helen Marie Witty, shown in this photo with her brother John was killed by a young drunk and drugged driver while she was rollerblading on a bike path near her home in Pinecrest in June of 2000. It was not long after that nightmare that Helen joined this magnificent organization where she was able to channel her unbearable loss into a forward-looking outlet where she could be a champion for her daughter's legacy, while also making an effective and positive impact on society. Although 18 years have passed, it seems like just yesterday that we lost our bright, beautiful Palmetto Senior High School honors student who became a beloved treasure in our hometown and who is still widely talked about and referenced throughout our community today. Helen, congratulations on this incredible achievement, and this opportunity is rightfully deserved to spread your message that it is a crime to drive drunk and drugged. South Florida is fortunate to have Helen, and I am confident that Helen Marie is looking down from Heaven and could not be any more proud of you. Thank you, amiga. ____________________”