Florida APRI Honors Distinguished Activists

Retired District 112 Secretary-Treasurer Miriam “Bunny” Baker was honored by the Florida Chapter of APRI for decades of community service.

Retired District 112 Secretary-Treasurer Miriam “Bunny” Baker was honored with the Distinguished Community Service Award from the Florida State Chapter of the A. Philip Randolph Institute at its 10 th Annual Memorial Birthday Celebration held April 15-16 in Jacksonville, FL.

Baker, who served the District for more than 20 years, was recognized for a plethora of community service functions; including being a foster parent to some 60 children since 1973, organizing the Annual Senior Citizens Dinners in Fernandina for 22 years and working with HEART (Helping the Elderly Attain Repairs Today).

“It’s inspiring to see just how much Bunny Baker has given to her community over the years,” said Diane Babineaux, IAM Chief of Staff for the International President. “Her dedication to labor and civil rights and her passion for helping the disadvantaged are all testaments to her extraordinary character.”

Former Pullman Porter Sollie Mitchell during WW II, where he served on Gen. Douglas McArthur’s staff.

The Florida State APRI Chapter also recognized 95-year old Sollie Mitchell with a Distinguished Community Service Award for a lifetime of service that included four and a half years in the U.S. Army during World War II and 35 years as a Pullman Car Porter.

“Sollie Mitchell’s story is about much more than just longevity,” said Babineaux. “His determination to overcome obstacles at every stage of his life is an inspiration for anyone facing challenges. His community, his church and his country are all better off for his willingness and ability to serve.”

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