Bennie Thompson

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a tenacious and ambitious young woman, Ms. Delancy Anderson. Delancy has shown what can be done through hard work, dedication, and a desire to achieve her goals. Yazoo City, Mississippi native, Delancy Anderson is a pre-veterinary medicine major who has been on the President's List every semester. She is also a Dean's ACT Scholarship recipient, Cheerleading Scholarship recipient, Freshman Cheer Award recipient and winner of the Scholar Athlete Award for 2019-2020. Anderson was voted a Class Favorite as both a freshman and a sophomore. She is active on campus as a cheerleader, Phi Theta Kappa member, MOSAIC member and Baptist Student Union member. Anderson is also part of Ebenezer Baptist Church Connect. Her plans upon graduating from Holmes Community College are to transfer to Mississippi State University to complete her undergraduate studies in pre-veterinary medicine. Anderson plans to apply to MSU's Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program with the hopes of being selected as 1 of the 31 students accepted. To ensure she has chosen the right field for her, Anderson has shadowed her local veterinarians in Yazoo City and Flora, Mississippi. Her community involvement/service includes: Deep South Cheer Competition staff, MOSAIC Student Support Services tutor, math and chemistry tutor/work-study, Holmes Cheer Stunt Clinic staff, Special Olympics staff, Major Experience volunteer, Freshman Friday volunteer and volunteering for the Goodman Tobacco Free Coalition--College Chapter. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ms. Delancy Anderson for her passion and dedication for success and desire to make a difference in the community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of a remarkable individual, the late Dr. Alfred Arrington. Dr. Alfred Arrington began his earthly life on Feb. 3, 1943, in Laurel, Mississippi. The son of Mr. Olen Arrington Sr. and Mrs. Johnnie Mae (Morgan) Arrington, he was the third child in a family of five children. On March 26, 1967, he married the love of his life, Josie Howard of Cleveland, Mississippi, and to this union, four children were born. Alfred accepted Jesus Christ as his personal savior at a very early age. He often testified to how the spiritual teachings at Pleasant Valley Missionary Baptist Church in Laurel inspired his devotion to God. On Tuesday, April 20, 2021, Dr. Alfred Arrington completed his final chapter in his earthly life journey. In the fall of 1962, Alfred enrolled at Alcorn Agriculture and Mechanical College in Lorman, Mississippi. He graduated in 1966 with a Bachelor of Science degree in education with a minor in biology. In 1964, he was initiated into Alcorn's Gamma Pi Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated. In 1970, Alfred continued his quest for excellence and earned a Master of Arts in education from Tennessee State University in Nashville, Tennessee. In 1975, he proudly earned a doctorate in education from Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, Oklahoma. Alfred's profound career as an educator spanned beyond borders, and his diligence as a public servant was immeasurable. Professionally, his exceptional background allowed him to serve as assistant principal, head football coach and director of athletics in Lake Providence, Louisiana; research assistant to the dean of education at Tennessee State University; assistant to the dean for minority affairs and instructor at Oklahoma State University; visiting professor of anatomy and physiology at Delta State University; assistant vice president for academic affairs in the Office of Provost, vice president for academic affairs in the Office of Provost and chairman of the Health, Physical Education and Recreation Department at Mississippi Valley State University; and adjunct professor and academic consultant at Alcorn State University. Dr. Alfred Arrington leaves his cherished memories to his loving wife of 54 years, Dr. Josie Howard-Arrington of Greenwood; a son, William Davis of Laurel; three daughters, Dr. Wandra Arrington of Vicksburg, Mississippi, Margaret Michelle Arrington of Atlanta, Georgia and Eulette Denise (Jesse) Harris of Chicago, Illinois; a devoted sister, Luella (Jonas) Hardy of Laurel, Mississippi; eight grandchildren, Sydney D. Warren of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Jordan K. Warren of Montgomery, Alabama, Michael V. Harris and Mason M. Harris, both of Chicago, Illinois, William L. Davis Jr. and William A. Davis Jr., both of Laurel, Mississippi, Taakanesha Davis of Laurel, Mississippi and Erica Martin of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; a godson, Rommell Isaac of Conyers, Georgia; a host of nieces, nephews, grandchildren, great- grandchildren, other relatives, family and friends. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of the late Dr. Alfred Arrington, in which he was a faithful community leader, worker and motivator.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable hero, Lin Jeffrey Riley, Sr. Raised in Senatobia, Mississippi (Tate County), Lin Jeffrey Riley, became the seventh child of Daisy Mae Riley and L.V. Coppage, born July 29, 1966. He found his calling late in life as the founder and organizer of the Marks Youth Outreach, Inc. Season after season, he lends his muscle to the Marks 49ers Athletic Programs. ``Coach Riley'', as he is known, has always been athletic, lively, outgoing, and creative. He was an outstanding student/athlete during his high school years. Coach Riley currently holds the top record for ``Most Quarterback Sacks'' in a single game at Senatobia High School. For three years consecutively, he received the Hawks Award for most forced and recovered fumbles, quarterback sacks, and pass interceptions. After relocating to Quitman County in 1997, Riley worked several jobs. He operated Riley's Hand Car Wash and Detail Shop and coached football at the Quitman County Middle School and Madison Shannon Palmer High School. It was during those times when he got an eyeful and earful of recreational activities needed for the youth of this area. Because of Riley's initiative, enthusiasm, willingness and time for these youth, the Marks Youth Outreach Program, Inc. was founded and organized. Having healthy, educated youth with Christian values is very vital for this county. Likewise, Coach Riley is at the top of the game working daily to ensure that these values are instilled in the youth of this community. But make no mistake he says, ``Success was anything but instant''. A community baseball team was the initial beginning and from that other sports programs emerged--football, basketball, tee ball, cheerleading, and now kickball and flag football have been added. Riley credits the program's success to God and lives by the scripture: ``With God all things are possible . . .'' (Mathew 19:26). Surviving 3 major strokes, Riley stills coaches and mentors countless of youth and has no plans on stopping anytime soon. On November 7, 2020, a field dedication ceremony was held in his honor. The football field is named Lin Riley Field, located in Marks, MS. On February 28, 2015, Lin married his wife Tracey Hankins-Riley and is the father of Lindez Wright, Terrell Wright, Travis McAdory, Kevon Taylor, Trinity Taylor, Lance Johnson, King Lin Jeffery Riley, Jr., Lakendrick Ware and Tommy Ware. He is a member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Marks, MS. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Lin Jeffrey Riley for he is the epitome of an unsung hero.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I include in the Record an exchange of letters between the Committee on Homeland Security and the Committee on the Budget on H.R. 396, the ``Transit Security Grant Program Flexibility Act''. House of Representatives, Committee on the Budget, Washington, DC, April 7, 2021. Hon. Bennie G. Thompson, Chairman, Committee on Homeland Security, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Chairman Thompson: I write to confirm our mutual understanding regarding H.R. 396, the Transit Security Grant Program Flexibility Act. H.R. 396 contains provisions that fall within the rule X jurisdiction of the Committee on the Budget. However, the committee agrees to waive formal consideration of the bill. The Committee on the Budget takes this action with the mutual understanding that we do not waive any jurisdiction over the subject matter contained in this or similar legislation, and the committee will be appropriately consulted and involved as the bill or similar legislation moves forward so that we may address any remaining issues within our jurisdiction. The committee also reserves the right to seek appointment to any House-Senate conference convened on this legislation or similar legislation and requests your support if such a request is made. Finally, I would appreciate your response to this letter confirming this understanding, and I ask that a copy of our exchange of letters on this matter be included in the Congressional Record during floor consideration of the bill. I look forward to continuing to work with you as this measure moves through the legislative process. Sincerely, John Yarmuth, Chairman.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I appreciate the gentlewoman allowing me to talk about my friend, Alcee Hastings. Madam Speaker, Alcee Hastings to a lot of us, is what we call a Renaissance man. When you knew Alcee, you knew somebody who knew exactly what he was talking about at all times. I carried Alcee Hastings to the Second District of Mississippi a number of times. You know, for a Florida boy, he could have been a Mississippi boy. He knew Bobby Rush, the blues singer. He knew how to go to catfish fries. He could just about adapt to any situation. But Alcee Hastings, more importantly, provided significant direction and guidance to a number of us who came to this body. Madam Speaker, so today I rise to pay a special tribute to a close and dear friend that I shared many memories with: The Honorable Congressman Alcee Hastings. Alcee was a champion civil rights legend, who served the people of Florida and this country for over 28 years as a Member of Congress. He dedicated his life to uplifting and empowering his constituents, colleagues, and our Nation. All of us have at least one Alcee Hastings story. Some of us have two or three or more Alcee Hastings stories, and they all are memorable. All through my district, he was one of those individuals who people wanted to know what was Alcee Hastings like. And the only thing I can tell you is you have to meet him because you really can't describe him. The dictionary doesn't provide enough adjectives to give you who he is, but that is the kind of person Alcee Hastings was. To Patricia and the kids: We all miss him. Absolutely, I know that all of you will miss him, too. You know, I wonder what Alcee would be saying to us right now. I have a good idea. And he probably would say: ``Look, I don't have time for all that noise. Get on with the business of helping our people.''

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a valiant woman, the late Mrs. Viola Johnson Clark. Viola had a dedication and desire to serve others. She was born September 14, 1934 in Cary, Mississippi to James Johnson and Katie Brown. Viola was blessed to be a wife, mother of seven and grandmother and great grandmother. Viola's motto was ``Get an education'' because there is power in knowledge and no one can take it away from you, ``It's your way out''. She instilled this motto everywhere she went with everybody she met no matter the color, never meeting a stranger. Viola's motto led her to earn her GED certificate from Mary Holmes Junior College as well as several college hours towards her bachelor's degree. Because of her love for people she worked tirelessly with the Civil Rights Movement as a self-appointed Civil Rights Activist along with other notables; Unita Blackwell the first black mayor of Mayersville, MS and Fannie Lou Hammer, to coordinate voting drives, community projects, and family assistance programs in her community. Viola and her mother also opened the doors of their homes to accommodate freedom riders in the delta when no one else was willing or was afraid to do so. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in posthumously recognizing Mrs. Viola Johnson Clark for her passion and dedication to serving Sharkey and Issaquena counties and desire to make a difference in the community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable individual, Dr. Kalanya Moore. Kalanya Moore serves as Assistant Professor and Director of Field Experiences and Clinical Practices and School District Partnership Liaison for the Teacher Education Council Departmental Governing Board in the Teacher Education Department at Mississippi Valley State University. She collaborates with District Superintendents, District and Building-Level Administration, Cooperating Teachers, and MVSU University Content Area Supervising Educators in the Elementary and Secondary Area Departments to develop and maintain relationships that lead to quality field experiences for Teacher Candidates at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Dr. Moore has also served as Teacher Education Department Acting Chair and Coordinator of the Master of Arts in Teaching (Certification) Program. She monitors the adherence of the MVSU Education Preparation Program to the Mississippi Department of Education certification guidelines for field experiences, student teaching, and graduate internships. Prior to joining higher education full-time, she obtained 15 years of P-12 experience. Her work experiences include Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten teacher, District Instructional Curriculum Coach (K-6), Adjunct Professor of On-Ground and Online Universities, Child Development Center Director, and Educational Consultant to HBCU Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) Graduate programs within the Southern Region. Additionally, she serves as a Professional Development Specialist (PDS) for the Council for Professional Recognition-Child Development Associate (CDA) and Consultant to MS Head Start Agencies, Preschool Programs, and School District Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs in the state. Her Spiritual Mantra derives from Galatians 6:9--Let us not become weary in well-doing, for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not; and II Corinthians 5:7--For we walk by faith, not by sight. Her life's most pivotal role is being wife of Mr. Reginald Moore of Greenwood, MS, and the mother of Reginald II and Jordan Moore. Dr. Moore serves as a mentor, advocate and ``voice'' to student education candidates, early career educators and those seeking guidance into the education profession. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Dr. Kalanya Moore for her dedication to education and commitment to our community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Jesse Turner Morris, Jr. Jessie Turner Morris, Jr. was a civil rights activist. He was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on February 8, 1937 to Amanda Louise Wooten Morris and Jesse Turner Morris. In the early part of his life the family lived in Wilmington, Delaware. Jesse would later move to Los Angeles, California where he graduated from Polytechnic High School. Mr. Morris' love for math led him to obtain a BS degree in Economics from UCLA, where he was a member of the swim team. He furthered his education by obtaining a master's degree in Agricultural Economics from Iowa State University. In the early 1960s Mr. Morris moved to Jackson, Mississippi and began in earnest his work to empower Black southerners working with the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) and the Council of Federated Organizations (COFO). Through his involvement in the Civil Rights Movement, Mr. Morris met Euvester Simpson, with whom he had a 22-year marriage and five children. Black institution building was one of his long-term goals, and in 1966, Mr. Morris helped establish the Poor People's Cooperative, which provided loans and assistance to poor people to start cooperative businesses and actualize a life beyond the limitations of the racist system of sharecropping. Mr. Morris commitment to Black empowerment was unwavering and continued long after the Movement ended. Mr. Morris served as director of the Emergency Land Fund for 15 years continuing the work that initially brought him to Mississippi, fighting to prevent Black people from losing their land. During this time, he served on the Editorial Board of The Review of Black Political Economy. In 1984, Mr. Morris became the first Executive Director of the Mississippi Food Bank, a clearinghouse for food for charitable organizations in central Mississippi. In later years, he worked with the U.N.I.Teaching Youth program and volunteered as a Court Appointed Special Advocate for children, while continuing to support voter registration efforts and initiatives to preserve civil rights history. Mr. Morris loved a good joke or prank and was always an advocate of Black self-determination. Mr. Morris is survived by his children, Earl Morris (Natilyn), Orlando Morris (Trish), and Omar Morris of Jackson, Mississippi, Tiyi Morris (Judson L. Jeffries) of Westerville, Ohio, and Jessica Morris (Thomas Anderson) of Coconut Creek, Florida. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the late civil rights activist Mr. Jesse Turner Morris, Jr.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mrs. Judy Hudson Bland. Judy Bland moved to Quitman County at the age of five with her parents, Floyd and Christine Hudson and her three older brothers. She was educated from first through twelfth grade in Marks. Upon high school graduation, she attended the University of Mississippi on a journalism scholarship her freshman year. In the spring of 1963, she married Johnny Bland, who had signed a contract with the Boston Red Sox and traveled with him to play at various locations in their farm system. After an eye infection ended his baseball career, he began a new one as a banker with First Security Bank at the Marks Branch. They brought their young family to Marks; a son, Kevin Bland, and daughter, Kimberly Bland (Wells), who were both educated in Marks; both received associate degrees from Northwest Community College and B.S. degrees; Kevin, from Mississippi State and Kimberly, from Delta State. These two children, their spouses and her grandchildren have been a constant source of joy, pride and inspiration as a part of her daily life. Bland had obtained her B.S. degree at the University of Memphis and worked for several years in the Memphis City School System, so in 1977, she returned to her teaching career, one that included a variety of afterschool programs which exposed the students in Quitman County to new technology and gave them opportunities to volunteer for worthwhile projects, such as participating in the relief efforts after Hurricane Katrina. In 1992, she was honored to receive recognition as ``Teacher of the Year'' at Quitman County High School. She was also often called upon to interview prospective teachers at recruiting events on college campuses. After her retirement in 2004, she continued the spirit of volunteerism. Whenever she saw a need, she offered to do what she could to fill it and help those in need lift themselves above their disadvantages. She helped patients at DePorres Rural Health Clinic who could not afford their medicine apply to the pharmaceutical companies for free or at a discounted price. Working with the Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi, she created a pilot program for Head Start to educate the children on eating nutritious food and to encourage their family members to eat healthy, as well. Working with the local nonprofit, Youth Opportunities Unlimited, she supervised youth on educational fieldtrips; helped students learn GIS/GPS technology and to map the condemned buildings in Quitman County that should be cleared and used for environmental friendly projects; prepared yard signs with house numbers to improve 911 accuracy; delivered Emergency Kits to elderly residents in the county; helped open a fitness center that welcomed all area residents; and conducted afterschool workshops for students on topics, such as financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and screen printing. Working with the Marks Project, a local nonprofit formed in 2017, she has been instrumental in providing playground equipment, an outdoor fitness trail, and an outstanding football field for countywide youth in the City of Marks Park; providing an excellent reading program for Pre-K, a Saturday tutoring/recreation program for middle school students, conducted on the campus at the University of Mississippi's School of Education, and ACT Prep Boot Camps at the high school, all in the Quitman County School District; and securing partnerships with both Northwest and Coahoma Community College to provide free job training to Quitman and its surrounding counties. Bland has served on numerous boards in Quitman County and north Mississippi, including the board of directors of DePorres Delta Ministries, Youth Opportunities Unlimited, and the Marks Project, as well as the Advisory Board of the Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi and the Board of Trustees of Northwest Mississippi Community College. She has won several awards in recent years, such as the 2010 President's Volunteer Service Award, the 2013 Quitman County Alumni Scholarship Gala Award, the Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi's 2019 Community Star Award, Margaret Madddox Woman of the Year and the 2020 Mule Train Historical Society Woman of the Year. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mrs. Judy Bland for her dedication to the teaching profession and her untiring efforts of volunteerism,

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of a remarkable individual, retired Flonzie Brown- Wright. Flonzie, a native of rural Farmhaven, Mississippi, is the only daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Frank and Littie Brown, Sr. She and her brothers, the late Sydney and the late Frank Jr. grew up in Canton, MS. She attended both public and private schools of Farmhaven and Canton, Mississippi. Flonzie received a Fain Fellowship and attended Tougaloo College, where her concentration was Political Science, PreLaw, and Black History. She graduated from the Institute of Politics at Millsaps College in Jackson and served the college as Vice-President of the Institute where she taught, ``Grass-roots Organizing and Campaign Management.'' She is the recipient of one honorary degree, Doctor of Humane Letters from Tougaloo College in 2018, and a Special Presidential Honors Award from LeMoyne College of Syracuse, New York. Flonzie's employment and professional career has spread from the dusty roads of Mississippi to the White House as she interacted with many individuals of national prominence. She was inspired to become involved in the civil rights movement in 1963, just after the assassination of Medgar Evers. Her inspiration continues in a myriad of creative community initiatives across the country where she lectures and provides motivational opportunities to a cross section of audiences. She continues to be a much sought-after speaker. On November 5th, 1968, Flonzie was the first African American female elected to public office in a bi-racial Mississippi town. She celebrated the 50th anniversary of her historic election in 2018. The position of Election Commissioner in Canton, MS, allowed her to correct many voting rights injustices throughout the state. She authored and published her first book, ``Looking Back to Move Ahead,'' in 1994. In 1999, the book became a Best Seller for an Independent Author. This memoir chronicles her growing up years in a small rural Mississippi town and salutes the involvement of scores of unsung heroes and sheroes who were similarly involved in the civil rights movement in the 1960's and 1970's in Madison County and Jackson, Mississippi. Flonzie worked with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Ambassador Andrew Young, Marian Wright Edelman, Constance Slaughter Harvey, Alice Walker, Judge Reuben Anderson and many other humanitarian activists, locally and nationally. Flonzie is the recipient of more than 400 national, state, church, and community service awards including the National FBI Citizens Award presented by former FBI Director James Camey in 2017 in Washington D.C. She is a member of the National Association of Female Executives, NAACP, SCLC, NCNW, and Women for Progress, Inc., among other organizations. She is president and CEO of FBW & Associates, Inc., a marketing consulting firm and is the founder of the Flonzie B. Wright Scholarship Foundation, a foundation designed to encourage students to stay in school. This foundation has provided more than $45,000.00 in scholarship dollars and other enhancements to many students. Flonzie is featured in the documentary, ``Standing on My Sisters' Shoulders.'' This award-winning film honors African American and Caucasian women, who were involved in the Southern Civil Rights Movement, including Annie Devine, Unita Blackwell, and Joan Trumpauer Mulholland, to name a few. They were honored for their work at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington D.C. She has been featured in Purpose Magazine, Tomorrow's South, ``Black America Series, Madison County, MS,'' ``The Sip'' and has self-produced two documentaries, ``Standing Tall in Tough Times'' and ``Before I'll Be Your Slave.'' She has been featured in many other publications and documentaries. Flonzie gave the Keynote Speech in Dayton, Ohio the night Barack Obama accepted the Democratic Party's Presidential Nomination, August 2008. Most recently, Flonzie was featured on the cover of the January 2018 issue of the Metro Christian Magazine. Before relocating to Mississippi, Flonzie served the Miami University in Middletown, Ohio as Student Affairs Scholar in Residence where she co-wrote a new curriculum, ``Black Issues in Higher Education.'' Even though her travels have been extensive and her achievements many, she simply refers to herself as, ``Just a Country Girl from Mississippi who loves the Lord and ALL people.'' She is a member of the New Hope Baptist Church in Jackson, and is the mother of three children: Cynthia, Edward (deceased), and Darrell. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life, legacy, and service of Flonzie Brown-Wright.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable organization, CompuRecycling Center, Inc. (CRC). CompuRecycling Center, Inc. is a 501c3 nonprofit organization, with Mr. Gene Finley as the Director. It is also comprised of five Board Members: Pandora Redmond, Joyce Johnson, Willie Goliday, Karen Phillips, and Don Green. CRC vision is to be a change agent for developing small businesses, minority-owned, and women-owned businesses in the Mississippi Delta by improving economic opportunities for distressed communities & empowering small businesses to embrace entrepreneurship via technical assistance & training. CRC also aims to be a change agent for the youth population by improving the health and well-being of communities and individuals while increasing the diversity of the healthcare profession and technical workforce. The mission of CRC is to serve as a technical assistance center for minority, women-owned and emerging businesses throughout the Mississippi Delta. CRC plans to assist developing small and emerging business establishing relationships with stakeholders, resource partners, and major corporations in order to improve the increased capacity of small businesses. CRC is intricately involved in growing, connecting and supporting minority, women-owned and emerging businesses by enhancing economic opportunities. CRC fully invests in the future of the region, the youth, by working as a change agent to improve the health and well being of communities and individuals while increasing the diversity of the healthcare profession and technical workforce. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing CompuRecycling Center, Inc. for their passion and dedication to serving the Mississippi Delta and desire to make a difference in the community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable hero, Mrs. Maotha Anderson McDaniel Robinson. Mrs. Maotha Anderson McDaniel Robinson was born January 29, 1920, in Avon, Mississippi. On Friday, January 29, 2021, a precious gift of life and love, celebrated her 101st birthday with her family and friends. From her humble beginnings in rural Bolivar and Sunflower Counties, Mrs. Robinson, along with her brother and sister, were raised on a system of integrity premised on the tenets of love, kindness and compassion imparted by their parents. Her parents focus was to instill a central moral compass that echoed the heart of the Good Samaritan and core ethical values encompassed in the importance of work, family, community and the love of God. Known for her kindness and willingness to assist others, Mrs. Robinson has devoted most of her life as the matriarch, not only of her family, but of her community as well as the oldest living female resident of the City of Shaw, Mississippi. Mrs. Robinson is a God-fearing Christian, a devoted wife and nurturing mother of eight children. She is the living embodiment of a woman of Proverbs 31:10. She is a woman after God's own heart, committed to her faith, her family and her friends. Her faithful membership of Poplar Grove Baptist Church and as a dedicated member of the Heroines of Jericho, has shown her as an upstanding pillar in the community. Mrs. Robinson remains the archetype icon and central foundation of a family that retains an unbreakable bond of love, honor, devotion, commitment and encouragement for each generation. She continues to be a blessing to others through her impartation words of Christian advice and wise counsel to those in her company as a reminder of God's unfailing love for us all, and continues to enjoy the affection, appreciation, encouragement, love and respect. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mrs. Maotha Anderson McDaniel Robinson for her dedication to serving her family, community, and state.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of a remarkable individual, retired Dr. Shanti Pandey. Dr. Shanti Pandey is being recognized for both her service and for her successful tenure as a doctor in Jefferson County, Mississippi for over 50 years. Dr. Pandey recently retired in 2020, came to the Jefferson County area in 1969, accompanying her late husband, Dr. Tiwari, Ph.D., who accepted a job offer in the Department of Agriculture at Alcorn State University. Taking the advice of Dr. Tiwari's associates, Dr. Pandey considered Jefferson County, particularly Fayette and set up practice in June 1970. Dr. Pandey who is now around 85 years old, began her practice in Fayette on Harrison Street. A number of years later, she built the Arbind Clinic on South Main Street, directly across from Jefferson County Hospital. This site remained the home of her practice until her recent retirement. Dr. Pandey, a native of India, graduated from Panta Medical College in 1958 and completed her internship in 1960. She began practicing medicine in her native country but soon came to America with her husband who worked on a terminal degree at the University of Georgia. Dr. Pandey began her practice in America at the Central State Hospital at the Milledgeville, Georgia, beginning in December 1967. She left Central State Hospital in Milledgeville and moved to Alcorn State on September 1, 1969. Dr. Pandey falls into a unique and illustrious group of doctors who have placed dedication and service at the top of their agendas. Dr. Pandey's walls are filled with certificates that attest to her endowments. One special certificate that many doctors do not receive reads that Dr. Pandey was inducted into the 50-Year Club by the American Medical Association in 2008. Another certificate attests to her attainment as Board Certified in Family Medicine. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life, legacy, and service of Dr. Shanti Pandey.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a tenacious and ambitious man Mr. Deonta Selvy, Sr. Selvy has shown what can be done through hard work, dedication, and a desire to make a difference in his community. Vicksburg native Deonta Selvy, Sr. has been a pillar of the Vicksburg community over the years as both a successful businessman and local volunteer. Selvy began D & T Mobile Express Services in 2009 just two years after graduating from North Carolina Central University. Apart from being a great businessman, Selvy is known for his love of sports and teaching kids the fundamentals of the games. Selvy has been a volunteer football and basketball coach for the last 15 years and has mentored hundreds of kids through the years. Most recently, he and his wife, Takita Selvy, started F.R.E.E (Fitness, Recreation, Education, Encouragement), a nonprofit agency aimed at helping kids in the community. Selvy has proven his dedication to serving the community and now he continues to take steps further to help individuals, and the city of Vicksburg will always be in debt to him for his great services. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Deonta Selvy for his passion and dedication to serving Warren County and desire to make a difference in the community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a tenacious and ambitious woman, Ms. Denisha Gray. Denisha has shown what can be done through hard work, dedication and a desire to educate Warren County youth. Denisha, a resident of Vicksburg, Mississippi, earned her bachelor's degree in general studies from Alcorn State in 2013. In 2018, she earned her master's degree from Louisiana Tech University. Denisha Gray, a second-grade teacher at Dana Road Elementary School, said it is important that, through her teaching, her students are connected to the world around them, and that the lessons they learn connect them to that world. Before joining the staff at Dana Road Elementary, Gray taught one year at Vicksburg Intermediate School, her first with the Vicksburg Warren School District. Prior to that, she spent one year as a fourth-grade teacher and four years as a third- grade teacher at Wright Elementary School in Tallulah. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ms. Denisha Gray for her passion and dedication to serving Warren County and her desire to make a difference in the community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a businesswoman and community leader, Mrs. Patricia Johnson Love. Patricia Dale Johnson Love graced the earth in September of 1969. She is the third youngest of many siblings. She was born to the late Lucious and Jessie Mae Johnson. On a gloomy day, while she was only 3 years old, in March of 1972, the youngest of the siblings was born. After her mother gave birth to her little sister, she hemorrhaged and transitioned. Ten years later, when she was only 13 years old, her father passed away. Although Love was too young to understand, life for her was about to be a challenge. She spent her childhood in different homes. Not all of them were good, but she and her siblings made the best of them. She would often think about the mile walk to the well to carry water, with no shoes on, on a rock road. She and her siblings trusted God every step of the way. Love graduated from Quitman County High School in 1987. She attended Northwest Community College and graduated with an associate degree in Basic Computer Programming. While at Northwest, she made her money by fixing young ladies' hair in the dormitory. After a year of employment, she decided to save her money and attend Cosmetology school. Love began her career as a licensed cosmetologist in 1993 at Lewis Beauty Salon in Marks, Mississippi. In 2002, she stepped out on faith and opened her own salon. She wanted to give new stylists a place to start their career. Her favorite clients were the elderly. She would pick up those who needed a ride and take them home. She never gave it a thought because their children would be at work. Sometimes, she would even have to take them to the grocery store or the post office before driving them home. In 1994 during the ice storm, God gave her a gift. She named her gift, Altrevia Rashun Jackson. Love became a single parent when her child was only four years old. During this time, she became ill. For three years, she suffered with Crohn's disease. She kept the faith and prayed that God will let her raise her child. After surgery in 1999, she was healed. In 2013, she married Donnie Ray Love. Donnie was also a businessman, who inspired her to pursue other avenues. Together, they have 4 children. After her daughter graduated from high school, she was hesitant on completing college. Love knew her daughter's capabilities, and she knew she had become distracted. She challenged her to a bachelor's degree. She attended Mississippi Valley State University and asked her daughter to attend. She knew that she had bitten off a bit much, but there was no turning back. The bond between the two grew even more, as they traveled to school together at night. In 2017, she graduated with a bachelor's degree in Business Administration and a concentration in Occupational Management. She wanted a mother and daughter graduation, but her daughter was not quite ready. She finished the next year in 2018. Love's professors thought it would be great for her to pursue a master's degree. She knew it would be difficult, but not impossible. In 2019 she received her master's degree in Business Administration, with honors. Patricia understands the full phrase of ``it takes a village to raise a child.'' She sees guiding children as a community effort. She loves children and wishes she could save them all. Therefore, she enjoys spending her spare time volunteering and tutoring at the Village in Marks, Mississippi. Love is the owner and operator of PJs Salon for 21 years and has served 28 years in the business. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mrs. Patricia Johnson Love for her dedication in serving her community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a tenacious and ambitious woman of God, Pastor Lora Miles. Pastor Miles has shown what can be done through hard work, dedication and a desire to teach the word of God. Recently, Pastor Miles was recognized by the Yazoo County Regional Facility Chaplaincy's Department as its first African American female prison minister. Pastor Miles is a native of Elizabeth, Mississippi, and currently serves as the Pastor of the Everlasting Love Ministry in Leland, MS. She has been involved in ministry work for nearly 30 years. It was after the passing of her son in 2014 that she hit the ground running in prison ministry--a safe haven to encourage her heart. She started her prison ministry at the Washington County Correctional Facility of Greenville, where she gives messages of hope and faith to hundreds of female inmates. In 2019, Pastor Miles decided to expand her prison ministry to Yazoo County, where she now serves as the first female to minister at the Yazoo County Regional Correctional Facility, an all-male state facility. Through her services in Yazoo County, inmates continue to receive Christ and inspirations through her messages of love. On Friday nights, at the Yazoo County Regional Correctional Facility, there are not enough chairs to accommodate all the men who are eager to attend the church services led by Pastor Miles. She is making a significant impact at the facility, and the lives of many men are being transformed. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Pastor Lora Miles for her dedication to serving others and giving back to her community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Wiley Rickman White. Mr. White was born January 14, 1931 in Mounds, Oklahoma. He was the ninth born of 10 children to the union of Norecker Harrell and Frank Joseph White. Mr. White grew up in a Christian family where Christian values were instilled and reinforced by his parents and their Church. He attended public schools in Mounds and graduated from Wheatly High School where he played football. Mr. White was an exceptional athlete at his High School and as a result of his abilities, he earned a football scholarship to attend Jackson State University in Mississippi where he displayed his talent on the field as a member of the JSU Tigers football team for four years as an undergraduate. Later, Mr. White was honored by his Alma Mater by being inducted in the Sports Hall of Fame wherein he was the 35th athlete to be inducted into the Hall of Fame in the University's 103- year existence. As an honoree Mr. White was presented a plaque and a medal. Mr. White was also a very good student where he maintained a 3.5 grade average and was a Charter Member of The Delta Delta Chapter, Kappa Alpha Psi, Fraternity, Inc. Mr. White completed college and earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree even while his studies were temporarily interrupted to serve his time in the U.S. Military where he moved up in the ranks as Sergeant in the U.S. Army serving in the Korean War. He earned an Honorable Discharge in 1960. Jackson State University is where Mr. White met the love of his life, Miriam H. Webb. The two married on December 22, 1951 and welcomed two children into the family during the mid-sixties. After finishing college and fulfilling his service obligation the two moved to Los Angeles, California in 1955. There, Mr. White worked at Markham Jr. High School as a physical education instructor. Because of his love for sports and athleticism, Mr. White began officiating high school basketball sporting events. He was later recognized by the IAABO (International Association of Approved Basketball Officials) as the first negro ever elected Secretary Treasurer of the organization. The IAABO is the largest organization of its kind in the world where they have jurisdiction over all high schools, semipro, and small college basketball officials. Mr. White also taught and coached football at Jordan High School in Los Angeles. Education was very important to Mr. White and he enrolled in The University of Southern California (USC) where he received a master's degree in business administration. Mr. White then expanded his career in teaching and worked as an educator/administrator in the Los Angeles Unified School District for 30 plus years and held positions as a classroom teacher, assistant counselor, assistant registrar, coach, youth service director, student body advisor, and vice principal mainly at the high school level until he officially retired in 1992. From 1968 through 1969 Wiley and his beautiful wife Miriam, built their dream home in Baldwin Hills, CA and moved their family into the home where they raised their children. The home was the site for many family parties, gatherings, holiday dinners, reunions, rehearsals, and meetings where he hosted numerous Jackson State University Alumni meetings and served as the Alumni's President for the Los Angeles Chapter. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the late Mr. Wiley Rickman White.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of a remarkable individual, retired Captain Percy Owens Norwood Jr. Retired U.S. Coast Guard Capt. Percy Owens Norwood Jr. was born February 14, 1946, in Memphis to Percy and Charlie Lott Norwood. Capt. Norwood of Carrollton, 74, was called to his heavenly home on Friday, November 27, 2020, at Tyler Holmes Memorial Hospital in Winona. As a young man, Capt. Norwood enlisted in the United States Coast Guard on November 20, 1970. After almost 30 years of outstanding and dedicated service to our nation, he retired with the rank of captain on October 1, 2000. At the time of his retirement, he held three key positions: Commanding officer of Coast Guard Headquarters Support Command, commanding officer of Coast Guard Headquarters staff, and executive officer of Coast Guard Headquarters in Washington, D.C. Percy received numerous personal awards that include the Legion of Merit, two Meritorious Service Medals, two Coast Guard Commendation Medals, and the Coast Guard Achievement Medal. His nonmilitary awards include the National Image Incorporated Award (1993), the National Naval Officers Association's (NNOA) Dorie Miller Award (1993), the National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education (NAFEO) Distinguished Alumni Award (1995), and the NAACP Roy Wilkins Renown Service Award (1995). Mr. Norwood was inducted into the Alcorn State University Hall of Honor in 2006 for his outstanding leadership and service and elected by his fellow Alumni as Alcornite of the Year in 2008 as Alcorn State University most distinguished alumnus. Capt. Norwood leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Bessie Marie Norwood; his children, Angelia Lavette Collins, Kelvin King Shaifer, Lindsey Marie Norwood Carson (Nathaniel) and Matthew Reginald Norwood; his grandchildren Devon, Shy, Nathaniel III, Alexis and Camerin; his great-grandchildren, Alex, Emberly and Zaniyah; his siblings Laura Norwood Davis, Willie Norwood, James Norwood (Rosie) and Ruther Flowers; his sister-in-law, Verna Norwood; his god-sister, Willie Mae Smith; his aunt, Emma Harrison; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life, legacy and service of Captain Percy Owens Norwood Jr.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Meredith Anding, Jr., a native of Myles, Mississippi. Mr. Anding and eight other undergraduate students at Tougaloo College, Tougaloo, MS were on a mission to desegregate the library system in Jackson, Mississippi. As part of their effort they courageously staged a sit-in on March 27, 1961 at the Jackson Public Library in Jackson, MS. This sit-in was initiated after the students recognized the lack of books at the George Washington Branch Library (colored). Prior to their ``read- in'' the students had been trained by the president of the Jackson Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). The nine students were all members of the Jackson Council of the NAACP. As a result of their historic impact in integrating the public library system in Mississippi, they will be forever known as ``The Tougaloo Nine''. The nine students were arrested and after being released from jail Mr. Anding joined the Air Force, due to losing his private loan to continue his studies at Tougaloo College. Mr. Anding would serve four years in the Air Force and later return to Tougaloo in 1969 to finish his degree. Mr. Anding moved to Buffalo, New York, to attend the University of Buffalo and earned his master's degree in Mathematics. He met his wife of 50 years, Mrs. Maurice Anding. He taught at the State University of New York and Niagara University until his retirement in 2007. Mr. Anding and his wife eventually moved back to Mississippi to be close to family. Anding was involved in the Tougaloo community and he also attended the 50th anniversary of the protest in 2017. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the late Mr. Meredith Anding Jr.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Aisha Erma Lenora Saffold, who is a pearl that begins as a particle of dust or dirt and finds its way inside an oyster. Then, the oyster coats the particle repeatedly over time--up to two to four years--until the finished product is a smooth, lustrous white pearl, which often has a value the same as a gemstone, ranging from hundreds to even millions of dollars. They're found at the bottom of the ocean. They take all the grime and the dust and the dirt from the sea, and they form this valuable gem. For bcnvhopes and dreams. Our P.E.A.R.L.S. members are led by young women who serve as mentors, and in tum, our mentors develop leadership skills that they will carry with them throughout life. We strive to help young teenage girls build self-esteem, develop leadership skills, and recognize community importance. She aspires to empower young women to believe in themselves and teach them that validation comes from oneself. In a society where the media implants a false image of whom and what a young woman should resemble, she has vowed to take a stand to teach the contrary and impart knowledge and wisdom in PEARL's lives. She wants every Mississippi girl to know that they are intelligent and beautiful and can reach their goals and excel at all they put their hands towards. As long as they have someone in their corner backing and pushing them to pursue their dreams, they will attain them. She wants all of the world to know that good people and good things are happening in the Great State of Mississippi. Aisha knows that our Mississippi girls are future presidents, C.E.O.'s, ambassadors, producers, doctors, teachers, entrepreneurs, and by molding and shaping them, they can achieve so much more. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing and congratulating Mrs. Aisha Erma Lenora Saffold for being actively involved and making great accomplishments in Holmes County.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Edgar Sculark. Edgar is the third child to the late L.A. and Evie Sculark and was born and raised in Parchman, Mississippi. L.A. Sculark was one of the first African Americans to be employed at the Mississippi Department of Corrections. Edgar was the first African-American child born to an African-American couple while living on the penitentiary property. Edgar was educated in the Drew Separate School District in Drew, MS, where he was very active in sports and band. After graduation, Edgar attended Mississippi Delta Community College in Moorhead, Mississippi, where his major was Criminal Justice. Shortly after the start of his college education, Edgar left the classroom to support a new family. Edgar married his high school sweetheart, Mashelia Kidd, and they now reside in Batesville, MS, with their three children. His greatest regret was not completing his college degree. However, that milestone helped to transition his mindset into being a big advocate for Education and Living a Purpose Driven Life. Edgar gave service to this country, as well as this state; he spent 10 years in the Mississippi Army National Guard and worked 10 years with the Mississippi Department of Corrections. Edgar also had the opportunity to cultivate his craft by being a master trainer with XPO Logistics. During his tenure with XPO Logistics, he started new companies and coordinated safety trainings. Although he had a flourishing corporate career, Edgar felt that he was neglecting his purpose. It was then that he knew something was missing and broken. Amidst the broken, Edgar always had a desire to build. With those desires came visions of operation with his Non-Profit Organization (GEM) Greater Expectation Ministries and LLC Voice2Vision (2019). Outlined within his organizations, he ventured into different platforms that delegate the spirit of empowerment though: Mature Minded Males (MMM), Favor Filled Females (FFF), Character Chipped Children (CCC), Book & Blazers, Scholars and Skirts and The Nehemiah Grind. Edgar's ultimate goal of servitude, through both organizations and each platform, is to continue the cycle of youth and people empowerment by way of Motivational Speaking, Mentoring, Reform Misguided Conduct, and Life and Character Coaching. Edgar's areas of specialty are: Anti- Bullying, Personal Motivation and Self-Ownership. At this point, Edgar began transitioning into another level of building. He reached into the surrounding communities to build partnerships. As an advocate for children and people, Edgar wanted to do all he could to assist with increasing community involvement. To that experience he added training that equipped him to adequately assist in every arena of trauma. Edgar is a Trained Advocate of the ACES (Adverse Childhood Experiences) Platform. Prepped and ready to train and assist, Quitman County became his stomping grounds. Edgar has partnered with The Reclaim Project (The Village), where he also actively serves on the board. Being so familiar with the children of Quitman County, it was in his heart to build a partnership with the Quitman County School District, where he actively participates and trains to better serve the needs of the community. He didn't stop there, he built another bridge that crossed into the Quitman County Fine Arts Program where he actively serves on the Board as well. Edgar often states, ``If you get it in your head, God will bring it out through your hands.'' So it's no secret why he serves. His purpose, his passion and God's plan are the driving forces behind his Healthy Heart to Hand dedication to children, people and community involvement. To that end, Edgar answered his Pastoral Calling 26 years ago, at the age of 21. Still walking in God's Purpose Placed Plan, he has been serving the Quitman County Community for 25 years as a Pastor. From that day to this, Edgar is the Pastor of the Great View Bible Church in Lambert, Mississippi where he operates in his greatest passion of Leadership and Servitude. It is with a grateful heart that he extends the same grace that he has experienced throughout the trials, transitions and triumphs of sacrifice. Trusting God, Trusting in the process and leaning in the way God leads has been the staple of Edgar's life just as it is stated in Proverbs 3:5-6--Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. [6] In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Edgar Sculark for his dedication to serving his community and this great state.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a tenacious and ambitious man, Mr. Roderick Bradford. Roderick has shown what can be done through hard work, dedication and a desire to serve others. Roderick is a graduate of Grambling State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Management in 1999. He has more than 20 years of management experience and seven-plus years of specialized experience in the financial services industry, after working for both Capital One and Chase Home Mortgage. Roderick serves in the Men's Ministry at Calvary Baptist Church and is an active member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Roderick is a veteran of the United States Air Force, where he served his country from 1989 to 1991. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Roderick Bradford for his passion and dedication to serving Warren County and desire to make a difference in the community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Earnest Lee Rankin, Sr. who was born in Simpson County, Mississippi on March 12, 1947, to Eliza Marie Rankin. He was the seventh of eight children. Dr. Rankin graduated from Harper High School in 1967, in Mendenhall, MS, before attending Prentiss Institute and graduating in 1969. While at Prentiss Institute, he married Dorothy Mikell, affectionately known as ``Doris,'' on March 2, 1969. Dr. Rankin graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Biology from Tougaloo College in May 1971. After attaining the highest score on the Medical College Admission Test in the state of Mississippi, he was accepted into the third integrated class of Medicine at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, MS, in 1971. Dr. Rankin completed a two-year residency in Family Practice at Texas Tech University in Amarillo, TX, and then decided to return home to begin practicing medicine, first in Madison, Leake & Yazoo Family Health Center in Canton, MS, in 1976, and later opening a private practice in Family Medicine in Jackson, MS, circa 1979. An intelligent, compassionate man of humble beginnings, he believed that everyone should be treated like a human being and was entitled to receive adequate health care. Dr. Rankin provided health care services to countless family members, the poor, the underprivileged, and the ``have-nots.'' finally retiring in 2019, after 43 years of practice. At an early age, Dr. Rankin joined Mount Zion Hill Baptist Church in Mendenhall, MS. Later in life, under the influence of Bro. Eddie Gates, Sr., he accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. Dr. Rankin was a member of Mount Wade Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Rev. Clevie Snell. He was an active member of the church for 28 years, serving as Sunday school teacher, deacon, member of the finance board, and wherever else he was needed. Dr. Rankin lived a full life as a volunteer in the Parchman Penitentiary Prison ministry, an avid and competitive bowler, and a great huntsman who rarely missed deer hunting season (or any other season for that matter). Dr. Earnest Rankin, Sr. held a special place in his heart for his family. Dr. Rankin is survived by his wife, Mrs. Dorothy Rankin of Jackson, Mississippi; children, Dr. Yolanda A. Rankin, Earnest Rankin, Jr., Demetira Rankin, Christa Pittman, and Patrick McKinney Rankin. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Dr. Earnest Lee Rankin, Sr.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor W.C. Gorden. W.C. Gorden was a native of Nashville, Tennessee, a former longtime football coach of Jackson State University and a member of the College Football Hall of Fame. Mr. Gorden was considered the school's winningest coach. Mr. Gorden served in the U.S. Army before beginning his coaching journey in 1956. Gorden led the Tigers from 1976 to 1991 and guided the football team to eight SWAC championships and nine NCAA Division I-AA playoff appearances. He had just one losing season. Jackson State won its second HBCU national championship in 1985. He finished his storied career with a 119-48-5 overall record and was a six-time SWAC Coach of the Year. Gorden was inducted into the SWAC Hall of Fame in 1994 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 2008. He was named to ESPN's Top 150 list of the greatest college football coaches of all time. Gorden produced 29 NFL Draft picks at Jackson State, including Jimmy Smith. Last month, the Jackson City Council voted unanimously to rename Jaycee Park after him in his honor. Mr. Gorden, who was 90, died on October 23, 2020. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the late Hall of Famer, W.C. Gorden.