[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2031]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           MS. FABIOLA SMALL

                                 ______
                                 

                              HON. TED POE

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, October 1, 2007

  Mr. POE. Madam Speaker, today I am proud to recognize a longtime 
community leader in southeast Texas. Ms. Fabiola Small has worn many 
distinguished hats throughout her lifetime, including co-chair of the 
Port Arthur Weed and Seed; founder of Love People, Inc.; founder of the 
Port Arthur, Texas Juneteenth Pageant; president of Woodmen of the 
World, Lodge 6192 and Youth Lodge 4640; president of Texas Senior 
Citizens Association; and board member of Tekoa Academy Charter School.
  ``Ms. Fab'' selflessly volunteers her time at the Salvation Army Boys 
and Girls Sports Section, and delivers meals to the young and the 
elderly. She has received countless awards, including the 2006 Woodmen 
of the World Insurance Society; 2006 Fraternalist of the Year; MVP of 
the National Fraternal Congress of America; 2006 Women's History, 
Builders of Communities & Dreams; 2007 MVP of the U.S. Congress, and 
2007 Juneteenth Trailblazer.
  Ms. Small is the first African American to be recognized as the 
National and International Fraternalist of the Year. An award presented 
to fraternalists who provide outstanding volunteer service in his or 
her community, and excellent leadership in his or her local chapter 
throughout the past year. Ms. Small's volunteerism even caught the 
attention of Southern Living Magazine, who will feature her in an 
upcoming issue.
  Ms. Small has dedicated her time and energy to the Golden Triangle 
for most of her life. Her selfless acts of kindness, devotion, and 
compassion for others are a true testament to her character. With 4 
children, 18 children that she has taken under her wings, 22 
grandchildren, and 9 great-grandchildren, ``Ms. Fab'' is an inspiration 
to others, setting a great example for all to follow.
  On behalf of the Second Congressional District of Texas, I applaud 
Ms. Fabiola Small on her outstanding achievements. She has helped make 
our world a better place to live, and I applaud her unwavering service 
and dedication to the community.
  And that's just the way it is.

                          ____________________