Bennie Thompson

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, this is the final amendment to the bill, which will not kill the bill or send it back to the committee. If adopted, the bill will immediately proceed to final passage, as amended. Just over a week ago, the Nation observed the 15th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attack. On that day, terror and hate not only took the lives of 3,000 innocent people, but also inflicted $3.3 trillion in economic damage to our Nation. In response to this unprecedented attack on U.S. soil, the Department of Homeland Security was established. To be successful, DHS must work with State, local, and private sector partners. Many of DHS's programs are voluntary, but in some areas, where the threats are high and voluntary measures are inadequate, DHS utilizes Federal rulemaking. As we saw last weekend in Minnesota, New York, and New Jersey, the threat picture is constantly evolving. Today, the threat of individuals acting alone, inspired online by foreign and domestic terrorist groups, is arguably one of the greatest homeland security challenges we face. Our government needs to be able to respond to evolving threats like the ``lone wolf'' threat. I am alarmed to see that, under this bill, critical action by the Department of Homeland Security could be indefinitely hamstrung, as protracted, possibly frivolous, legal challenges move through the courts. From a homeland security standpoint, there is no justification for putting arbitrary obstacles in the way of DHS when it needs to issue regulations to protect critical infrastructure from infiltration by terrorists, keep dangerous materials out of terrorists' hands, and secure the border, yet the underlying bill would do just that. Mr. Speaker, my motion to recommit would provide for an exception to the rule in instances that ``pertain to protecting the Nation against security threats.'' There are things we can do to make the country more secure, but it seems that the majority lacks the will to do so. Earlier today, Democrats tried to get legislation to bar individuals on the no-fly terrorist watch list from buying guns considered. The majority blocked the legislation. Then we tried to get considered a measure that I authored to expand DHS' overseas screening and vetting operations to protect ISIL-trained European foreign fighters and other dangerous people from entering the United States. This measure was blocked, too. This morning, Mr. Speaker, in my committee, we received testimony from prominent law enforcement officials about how the availability of firearms put their officers and the citizens they protect in harm's way. In fact, Mr. Speaker, the Austin, Texas, police chief testified that police chiefs are ``haunted'' by the threat posed by the ``widespread availability of firearms in our country,'' which ``makes it possible for potentially dangerous persons to legally acquire weapons to cause mayhem and colossal casualties.'' To this point, this past weekend, in a St. Cloud, Minnesota, mall, 10 people, including a pregnant woman, were stabbed by a young man who is believed to have been radicalized by ISIL. Thankfully, all the injured individuals are expected to recover. These days, it is not too hard to imagine the carnage that could have been inflicted on this innocent population if the assailant had, instead, entered the mall with an AK-47 assault weapon and large- capacity clips. This Congress must show leadership on the pressing homeland security challenges to the Nation. Standing in the way of the Department of Homeland Security, as it tries to protect our citizens, is the wrong thing to do. For these and a number of other reasons, Mr. Speaker, I urge Members to vote ``aye'' on my motion to recommit. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I have a motion to recommit at the desk.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. I am opposed in its current form.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I demand a recorded vote.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. McGovern) for allowing me the time. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote ``no'' and defeat the previous question so we can bring up my bill, H.R. 5256, the Expanding DHS Overseas Passenger Security Screening and Vetting Operations Act. Mr. Speaker, everybody we have talked to within the Homeland Security arena says that, as Americans, we are safer if we can push our borders out. So the notion that we should wait on the bad guys to get here is a notion that obviously would put us in harm's way. So what we are proposing with this bill is enhancing the ability for us to push our borders out. We have had examples of this. They have all been successful. So this is another effort to resource the opportunity to make sure that our borders not only are just safe, but as safe from American soil as possible. So 15 years ago, Mr. Speaker, foreign terrorists carried out the most deadly and costly terrorist act on U.S. soil. We committed ourselves to creating the Department of Homeland Security. We resourced it. We put a number of agencies together. We are on a day-to-day basis tracking bad people all over the world, preventing bad people from getting into the United States. To the credit of our men and women, they are doing a good job, but we are only as good as the resources that we put to fight terrorism. So this, again, is one of the tools in the toolkit that we have identified that we have to have, which is to push our borders out so that we can not only keep Americans safe, but we can, through our enhanced vetting process, keep bad people out. So as the 9/11 Commission reported, the terrorists that carried out this heinous act on 9/11 were able to exploit legitimate channels of travel to the U.S. from countries around the globe. There is no question about that. To prevent terrorist travel, the Department of Homeland Security has made significant efforts to expand its presence and partnerships around the world to vet passengers well in advance of their arrival to the U.S. For instance, Mr. Speaker, there are over 200 airports around the world. The last-point-of-departure airports, to speak of, where unless we can vet all those individuals who are trying to come here, they can't get on the plane. So what we are trying to do is continue to enhance that effort and others to make sure that anyone trying to get to this country--and we can identify that they are bad people--that we will keep them away. My legislation, Mr. Speaker, H.R. 5256, will strengthen these operations to deal with evolving terrorist threats, including the threats posed by individuals traveling without visas from European and other countries with visa waiver agreements with the U.S. Now, to prevent these terrorists and other dangerous people from entering the U.S., Mr. Speaker, this legislation directs DHS to strategically expand its program that vets and screens travelers. It specifically authorizes key DHS vetting and screening programs. It also provides for an additional 2,000 Customs and Border Protection officers for not only overseas operations, but also to address domestic shortages, particularly at U.S. international airports. Mr. Speaker, even as we absorb the events of this weekend where Americans carried out terrorist attacks in Minnesota, New York, and New Jersey, we must do all we can to prevent foreign terrorists, including an estimated 3,000 Europeans trained as foreign fighters by ISIL, from entering the United States. Defeating the previous question, Mr. Speaker, will allow Members to consider my bill, H.R. 5256, that will do just that. Again, Mr. Speaker, we are only as good as we resource the Department to fight terrorism.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Ollye Shirley who has touched the lives of many in Mississippi. She recently passed away on September 10, 2016. Dr. Ollye Shirley grew up the big sister to two brothers in the home of two teachers in Mound Bayou, MS. Ms. Ollye Brown's parents taught at a one-room school and their home was situated on land that her family still owns. When Ollye Brown graduated from high school, she went on to attend Tougaloo College. Fond Tougaloo memories conjure images of singing under the trees and playing baseball. Ollye also remembers Tougaloo as a college ``small enough to make really good close friends--kind of like a family. If somebody needed something, alumni or other students would pitch in.'' While lettering in basketball and being an all-conference guard, Ollye Brown maintained her status on the Dean's list. Miss Brown met and was courted by her college sweetheart Aaron Shirley '55 at Tougaloo College. This self-motivated honor student graduated from Tougaloo in 1953 with a Bachelor of Arts in English and gained employment at Burglund High School in McComb, MS. When her husband graduated from Tougaloo in 1955, the family moved to Nashville for his medical education at Meharry Medical College. Over those four years, Ollye worked as a secretary for Tennessee State University and earned extra money typing theses for graduate students. She also worked for Davidson County as a welfare worker for their last two Nashville years. Because the Civil Rights Movement did not receive much or very accurate coverage, several branches of the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party published their own newsletters. Dr. Aaron Shirley graduated from Meharry, the family moved back to Mississippi, and Ollye shared with Dilla E. Irwin the editorship of the Vicksburg branch's newsletter, the Citizen's Appeal. Dr. Ollye Shirley later worked for the Children's Television Workshop; then served on the JPS school board from 1978-1993, the last four years as president. In her years of education, Dr. Shirley has served the children of Mississippi admirably. She worked with PBS' CTW for almost 25 years, helping determine the direction of educational television by bringing programs such as ``Sesame Street,'' ``Electric Company'' and ``Ghostwriters.'' In her last position in the CTW, Dr. Shirley served as regional director, training teachers how to use these shows as educational tools. Dr. Ollye Brown Shirley's recent recognitions include Link of the Decade for Services to Youth from the Jackson Chapter of The Links. In addition, the story of her achievements is told on the 2010 documentary `In Spite of it All' by Wilma Mosley Clopton. Dr. Ollye Brown Shirley is also a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., initiated through Tougaloo's Gamma Psi Chapter. Doctors Aaron and Ollye Brown Shirley's marriage bore four children: Kevin, Terrence, Christal S. Porter, and Erin Shirley Orey and her five much loved grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Ollye Shirley.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise/day to honor a historic church, Sweet Canaan Church of God in Christ. It has shown what can be done through the years of dedication of a progressive church. The historic Sweet Canaan Church of God in Christ, which is the second oldest Church of God in Christ in the World and is located at: 1946 Bellbottom Road in Lexington, MS 39095. ``The first church added to the number professing sanctification was located in Carroll (Holmes) County sixteen or seventeen miles north of Lexington, Mississippi.'' This statement is from the book: ``Fifty Years Achievement from 1906-1956 A PERIOD IN HISTORY OF THE CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST''; By Charles H. Pleas, reprint 1991 p 5. The Editorial note stated: The Historic Sweet Canaan church is located near the Carroll County line but it is actually in northern Holmes County just south of Carroll County. Sweet Canaan began as a little prayer mission in a wayside house of Professor Allen Taylor. Allen Taylor's property was located on Bell Bottom Road which is located about ten to fifteen miles north of Lexington. During those days Elder Morgan Williams was in charge of the small congregation. In the year 1909, the prayer mission decided to organize itself and the name Sweet Canaan was chosen. Prior to selecting the name Sweet Canaan, the church was known as the ``Colored Sanctified Church.'' It was through continuous fervent prayer that other community people soon joined the early saints. The present site of Sweet Canaan was once the spot where cattle of Professor Taylor grazed. Professor Taylor donated the land to the church for the sum of twenty dollars ($20.00), a legal formality. Although the small congregation did not have seats, the community was blessed. Mr. Isaac Randle was given a few dollars to bring some sweet gum logs to be used as seats in the prayer mission. Recognizing the small congregation's perseverance, Bishop Charles Harrison Mason, Founder of the Church Of God In Christ, appointed Elder Jeffery A. Lewis as their first pastor. He was also appointed the first Overseer of the State of Mississippi. At that time, the whole state was under one jurisdiction. Sweet Canaan is blessed to have had its first three pastors to serve as state overseers; they were Elder Jeffery Lewis, Elder Stephen Rice, and Elder James Henderson. Sweet Canaan is also blessed to have had the jurisdictional supervisor of women for northern Mississippi, Mother Sarah Ann Braggs Gaston, as a member during her youth. Bishop Timothy Titus, Prelate of Northern Mississippi Jurisdiction, preached at Historic Sweet Canaan during his early years as a young preacher. The late Bishop Louis Henry Ford, former Presiding Bishop of the Church of God in Christ, often talked about his experience when he preached at Sweet Canaan, when he was a child and a student at Saint Academy and College in Lexington. The first State Holy Convocation of the Church Of God In Christ was held at Historic Sweet Canaan. Former Pastors of Sweet Canaan were: Elder J.A. Lewis, Elder Stephen Rice, Elder Fred Winans, Elder W.B. Hudges, Elder D.R. Curry, Elder James Lee, Elder James Henderson, Elder D. Pitchford, Elder J.L. Pleas, Superintendent Fred Wade, and currently Elder Dr. Percy Washington, Sr. The first deacons of Sweet Canaan were Brother Phillip Blake, Brother Louis Brooks and Brother Charlie Randle, and Mother Abbie Banks was the church mother. Some of the early saints of Sweet Canaan were: Professor Allen Taylor, Brother Louis Brooks, Brother Willis Randle, Brother Frank Blake, Brother Jessie Banks, Brother Frank Hoover, Brother Ben Simmons, Mother Sara Booker, Mother Ina Jenkins, Mother Ida Wilson, Mother Abbie Banks, Mother Ella Taylor, Mother Emma Brooks, and Deacon Payton Smith. The present pastor, Elder Dr. Percy Louis Washington, was appointed to serve on May 18, 2003 by Bishop T.T. Scott. Pastor Washington and his lovely wife, Glenda, have five sons and nine grandchildren. He and the Sweet Canaan congregation have worked hard together to preserve the history of Sweet Canaan by enclosing the whole building inside the Dr. Tyree and Mary Carr Multipurpose Building. The beautiful Carr Multipurpose Building houses not only the entire historic church, but it houses the fellowship hall, residential quarters, office and classroom space. On July 18, 2013, Bishop Charles Edward Blake, the Pastor of West Angeles Cathedral in Los Angeles, California, and the Presiding Bishop of the Church of God in Christ, Inc., visited Historic Sweet Canaan. They were joined at Sweet Canaan by General Board Members, Bishop Brandon Porter of Memphis, Tennessee, and Bishop Wooten of St. Louis, Missouri. Also joining Bishop Blake were several other bishops and more than half of the Trustee Board of the Church of God in Christ. Pastor Washington has said many times; ``When I went to Sweet Canaan, on my way to the church I saw many cows. When I got to the church I saw a honey bee hive in the back of the church. I knew I was in the right place. For I was in the Land of Milk and Honey--in the land of Canaan-- Sweet Canaan.'' Sweet Canaan oftentimes invites many to praise and worship with them every Sunday. Their Prayer service begins at 9:00 a.m., Sunday school starts at 9:30 a.m., and Sunday Worship Service starts at 11:00 am. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the historic Sweet Canaan Church of God in Christ.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Gilfield M.B. Church in Doddsville, Mississippi. The church was founded and built by slaves on the banks on the Sunflower River located on the plantation of United States Senator James O. Eastland in 1894. The history of the church spans 122 years with records showing three structures as its home, each with its own fascinating and remarkable journey. Early records of the church were recalled and passed down by word of mouth from slaves down to the members of the church which were also relatives. The earliest written record of the church was around the 1980s. Many of the elders and other members were still attending the church, so Ms. Hattie Jordan, a member of the church, volunteered to be the church historian and keeper of the records. She gathered documents, recorded oral stories, researched ``leads'' of where she could get more information or someone who could corroborate the findings. One source of information she relied on were two cornerstones located on the existing church front in Doddsville. One of the cornerstones was once the original place of the church in 1894, and transferred thereafter to structures one and two. In 1894 the location of the first church was strategically planned to exist near water. It is believed but not recorded that the location was chosen because the river could be used to secretly baptize members, a practice not openly approved of by plantation owners. Ms. Jordan told the story of how she was baptized in the Sunflower River behind Gilfield M.B. Church in 1953 by Rev. McGee. Gilfield M.B. Church was allowed to exist only because Senator Eastland gave the slaves his approval. Gilfield M.B. Church--First Structure--1894 Year: The first pastors of Gilfield M.B. Church at its initial location were: Rev. C.C. Edwards, Rev. Hester, Rev. Hobbs, and Rev. Mose Watson. No written records were kept by slaves. The only source for handing down information was by word of mouth to the younger generation. Gilfield M.B. Church--Second Structure--1921 Year: The second Gilfield M.B. Church was built a mile down from the first site on the banks of the Sunflower River on the Eastland Plantation. Rev. Mose Watson was the pastor. He continued to lead the church as he did while pastoring at the first location. After Rev. Watson, the church installed Rev. Issac as the new pastor until his death in 1947. Following Rev. Issac the church was led by Rev. Latson from 1947 to 1952. Rev. Latson left for the church to move to Chicago, IL. Immediately afterwards, Rev. McGee became the pastor in 1952, but separated from the church in 1953. There was a short lapse in pastors because Rev. Fleming did not begin pastoring the church until 1954. Records indicate he was the last pastor of the second structure listed as the home of Gilfield M.B. Church. Gilfield M.B. Church--Third and Current Structure--July 24, 1977 Year: Rev. Fleming moved with the church to their third home beside the site of the second home, on the banks of the Sunflower River located on the Eastland Plantation. The sanctuary section of the second site was demolished leaving the backside section to be used for church gatherings, of which it still stands today. The pastors of the third site location in order of leadership were: Rev. Fleming, Rev. John H. Williams, Rev. Clarence Tolbert, and the current pastor is Rev. Theautry Winters. Church Members (Past and Present): Gilfield M.B. Church was founded by slaves, built by slaves, pastored by slaves, and handed to their descendants, of which many are still members. Please know that many of the member's names have yet to be recorded. Ms. Hattie Jordan is still researching the church history and compiling documents to be used in the recordings. Membership records show these individuals as the members: Sis. Hattie Young and family, Sis. Mary Pittman, Sis. Mary Ella English, Sis. Mahalia Jones and family, Sis. Lucy Williams, Sis. Lubertha Williams and family, Sis. Willie Ann Moore and family, Sis. Grace Brown, Sis. Bettie Jones and family, Sis. Louis Pittman and family, Sis. Celestine Wallace, Sis. Mirays Brown, Sis. Eddie Lee Barnes, Bro. Wiley Caples, Sis. Ruth Caples, Sis. Hattie Robinson- Jordan and family, Deacon George Roby and family, Deacon Charlie Edwards and family, Deacon Glay Smith, Deacon David Williams and family, Sis. Susie Bowie and family, Sis. Bessie Williams, Deacon Howard Lawrence and family, Brother Thomas Hudson and family, Brother Joe Henry Pittman and family, Mrs. Hattie Byrd, Sis. Magnolia Wright and family, Sis. Rose Lee Lacy and family, Bro. W.C. Williams and family, Sis. Lillie Bell Robinson and family, Sis. Linnie Tripplet and family, Bro. Hays Robinson and family, Sis. Bessie Joiner, and Sis. Deloris Lawrence. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the Gilfield M.B. Church of Doddsville, MS located in Sunflower County inside of the Second Congressional District of Mississippi.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable historical church, Sykes Chapel Missionary Baptist Church of Lambert, Mississippi and the great leadership it is under. Sykes Chapel Missionary Baptist Church was founded in the 1900s by the share cropping plantation families: the Sykes family, the Noble family, the Cox family, and the McCray family. For years, there was no building for worship service. Therefore, the families went from house to house worshipping and praising God. The plantation was first-owned by Mr. Yeager who later gave it to his relative, Mr. E. H. Anderson. Mr. Anderson was more of a God-fearing man who would often attend some of the worship services, sometimes standing in the back or just stopping by one of the homes. The Sykes family was the oldest and first family on the plantation. Therefore, the families gathered together and sold cakes to raise a little money. Afterwards, they asked Mr. Anderson to allow them to have a spot to build a church. Mr. Anderson allowed them to build a one-room shot gun building and allowed the men on the plantation to provide the labor. There was one wood heater and no air, but the families continued to praise God. The members along with Mr. Anderson agreed to name the church Sykes Chapel Missionary Baptist Church. Afterwards, they selected a pastor to lead them. Minister Richardson was the first pastor selected. He served for a while, and later God called him home. In addition to the church, Mr. Anderson provided them with burial ground, and they called it the Sykes Chapel Cemetery. Some of the members are actually buried there. Later, the church was destroyed twice--first by storm and later by fire. With the assistance of Mr. Anderson and loyal families, the church was rebuilt twice. After rebuilding the church, they had worship service once a month. The church has been under the leadership of several pastors: Rev. Harry Benimon, Rev. Rollie Lee, Rev. Arthur Lee, Rev. Lloyd Johnson, and Rev. Robert Griffin. Pastor Lloyd Johnson enjoyed praising God. He encouraged members to attend church every Sunday, and the membership increased. He later had a vision to build a larger sanctuary. In the process of preparing to build a larger church, no deed was found. Several deacons, including Deacon Albert Emerson, Deacon James Lee McCray, Deacon Ollie McCray, and Deacon Eddie Moore went to Mr. Anderson to inquire about the deed, and he sold the land to Sykes Chapel Missionary Baptist Church for $1.00. In addition to the new sanctuary, a bus and van were purchased; outreach ministries and abstinence programs were started. Pastor Johnson served as pastor for seventeen years, until God called him home. God sent Pastor Robert Griffin, who served for approximately four years. Under his leadership, the church continued to praise God. The youth ministry flourished, and the church was paid off in one and a half years. Currently, Sykes Chapel Missionary Baptist Church is under the leadership of Pastor Derell Wiley. He believes that we can truly move mountains through prayer and faith. His established mission for Sykes Chapel is: ``Exalting the Savior, Equipping the Saints, and Evangelizing the Sinner.'' In his vision, souls are saved, minds are renewed, hearts are cleansed, and members are rejuvenated. He emphasizes that the atmosphere will be shifted and a change will occur when we work together and embrace others with love, for God is love. They are a little country church, but they serve an awesome God, who is able to transform minds, spirits, and lives. Under Pastor Wiley's leadership, they are growing physically and spiritually-studying and standing on the word of God. The following ministries have been started: Youth Ministry, Jail Ministry and Counseling, and the Convalescent Home Ministry. In addition, the church webpage, www.sykeschapel.com, was established. By faith, they are discovering their purposes and trusting God for His promises. As God leads and guides, the future ministries will be developed: family ministries, couple ministries, and single ministries, as we become spiritually and physically prepared for God's kingdom. By faith, mountains are being moved, sinners are seeking Christ, and Christians are being restored. The Sykes Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, believes that the greatest privilege and responsibility is to create disciples for Christ. The members are therefore committed to fulfilling their purpose through worship, fellowship, ministry, and Christian education. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Sykes Chapel Missionary Baptist Church for its dedication to serving our great community and country.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Jackson, Mississippi native, Major General Augustus L. Collins, Adjutant General of Mississippi, who also serves as the commanding General of both the Mississippi Army and Air National Guard. After 35 years of being active in the Mississippi Army National Guard, Major General Collins announced his retirement, concluding his service at the end of August. His passion for service began when he was invited to attend a National Guard drill, and saw the position as an opportunity to earn extra income. He enlisted in the Mississippi Army National Guard's company B, 1st Battalion 198th Armor Regiment in March 1977, and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant July 1980. After enlisting, General Collins attended the University of Mississippi where he received his Bachelor of Business Administration. Afterwards, he received a Master Business Administration degree from Jackson State University. He also earned a Master of Strategic Studies degree from the United States Army War College. Collins was appointed the Adjutant General of Mississippi by Governor Phil Bryant in January 2012, and was promoted to Major General in March 2012. He leads a ready force of more than 12,275 Citizen-Soldiers and Airmen. He also serves as the director of the Mississippi Military Department, and oversees the development and coordination of all policies, plans and programs of the Mississippi National Guard in concert with the Governor and legislature of the State. He refers to his military career as his greatest accomplishment. General Collins commanded 3,000 Mississippi soldiers--the 155th Armored Brigade in Iraq at the time of Hurricane Katrina. Being in Iraq during that time was a memorable experience for him because he witnessed the strength of his troop. He stated, ``Twenty-seven soldiers went into combat with me who did not come back. I live with that number. I'll never forget them because they gave everything they had.'' Troops were forced to place their personal lives on hold to fight for the betterment of the country. Unaware of their living conditions back home and dealing with the grievances of other soldiers, the troops remained focused on the task at hand. General Collins has won many awards over the course of his military career including the Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Mississippi Longevity Medal He appreciates his experience gained while serving his country so the decision to retire was not easy. Though he will no longer be in uniform, he plans to continue working and spending more time with family. I consider General Collins a friend and he was always a consummate professional and there for me and my staff when we needed his assistance. His presence in command will be sorely missed. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Adjutant Major General Augustus L. Collins, for his duty to his country, his state, and his troops. Thank you for your service.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Cadet COL Jaylin Rodgers of Lanier High School who was named the 2016 Jackson Public Schools Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps Cadet of the Year. Cadet COL Rodgers serves as the Battalion Commander for Lanier's 1st Battalion Mighty Bulldogs. He holds a 3.33 GPA and has earned a score of 25 on the ACT. He has taken advanced level courses throughout high school, such as Accelerated English I and II, Accelerated Geometry, and Advanced Placement U.S. History. A member of the school's National Honor Society, Cadet COL Rodgers is also the recipient of JROTC's Scholastic Excellence Award and was a Leadership Education and Training, Level One top cadet. Cadet COL Rodgers served on Lanier High School's Battalion staff for three years as the Human Resources Officer, Executive Officer, and now the Battalion Commander. Cadet Rodgers has attended the LeaderSTATE Leadership and STEM Camp and Boys State at Mississippi State University and the Junior Cadet Leadership Challenge at Fort Knox, Kentucky. His plans are to attend Jackson State University, major in Electrical Engineering, and attain a commission into the Army as a second lieutenant. Cadet COL Rodgers is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Larry and Tamarrus Rodgers. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Cadet COL Jaylin Rodgers.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a community servant, Mr. James Mallett. Mr. Mallett has shown what can be done through tenacity, dedication and a desire to serve his community. James Mallett was born in the Carter community to Edward and Ethel Mallett. James' family lived on a plantation called Clark and Cato. He grew up in a small church called Mt. Salem. He learned many life lessons from working on the family farm. James graduated from Yazoo City High School in 1983. James attended Jackson State University, but returned home to take a job with Yazoo Industries, where he remained for ten years. In 1990 Chief BJ Wright offered James a job at the Yazoo City Fire Department. Through the years, James also had the opportunity to work under Charles Moore, Mike Woodard, Roy Wilson and Terry Harber. James credits his wife, Alma, for supporting him as he worked for the Yazoo City Fire Department for 25 years. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. James Mallett for his dedication and loyalty to Yazoo City.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize New Town Missionary Baptist Church in Charleston, MS inside of Tallahatchie County. New Town Missionary Baptist Church was built in 1805; therefore the church is more than 150 years old. Like so many Black rural churches the history of New Town Missionary Baptist Church was passed down by word of mouth from members who were slaves. The church was built under the guidance of Spring Hill Baptist Church which was an all-white congregation. However, New Town Missionary Baptist Church (an all-Black congregation) was pastored by Rev. Porter, who was a white minister, until the church was successful in finding a Black minister who could lead. The Rev. Hampton Clemmons was the first Black pastor of the church. The first building was a one room structure located where the Old New Town Cemetery is now. The following ministers have served as pastor of the church: Rev. Matthew Black, Rev. Neison Harris, Rev. William West, Rev. Willie Penn, Rev. Charlie Johnson, Rev. William Booker, Rev. Matthew Black (re-elected), Rev. P.R. Gipson, Rev. J.T. Brown, Rev. H.C. Jones, Rev L.J. Jordan, Rev. R.S. Phamphlet, Rev. David B. Curry, and Rev. Derrick Williams, Sr. (current pastor). Some of the deacon members of the church were: Bro. James H. Reed, Bro. Burel Reed, Bro. James H. Bellamy, Bro. Robert E. Pollard, Bro. Nathan Metcalf, Bro. Richard Gray, Bro. Ben Thompson, Bro. Green Hudson, Bro. James Bellamy, Jr., Bro. Charlie Simmons, Bro. B.L. Reed, Bro. John H. Gray, Bro. Barney Willis, Bro. N.A. Boclair, Bro. Charlie Anderson, Bro. Jessie Terry, Bro. Minon Reed, Bro. S.N. Drake, Bro. Grafton Gray, Bro. John Winford, Bro. George Fair, Bro. James Frost, Bro. Roberson Jennings, Bro. Eckles Simmons, Bro. Frank Diltz, and Bro. Erwin Maynew. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the New Town Missionary Baptist Church in Charleston, MS in Tallahatchie County inside of the Second Congressional District of Mississippi.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Willie Totten, who is a former professional football player and current college football coach. Totten played his high school football at J.Z. George High School in North Carrollton, Mississippi. Totten was a four- year starter quarterback at Mississippi Valley State University from 1981 to 1985, along with Jerry Rice as his target as wide receiver. Totten set more than 50 Division I-AA passing records, and Rice setting many Division I-AA receiving records. The Delta Devils averaged 59 points a game during the 1984 season, with Totten throwing for a record 58 touchdowns and leading the Delta Devils to the Division I-AA playoffs in 1984. Archie Cooley, who was the head coach at MVSU from 1980 to 1986, was the architect of the pass-oriented offense that utilized the skills of Totten. Totten played professionally in the Canadian Football League (CFL) with the BC Lions (and Toronto Argonauts before moving on to the National Football League (NFL), as a replacement player for the Buffalo Bills during the strike-shortened 1987 NFL season. Totten played in the Arena Football League for the Chicago Bruisers, Pittsburgh Gladiators and the New Orleans Night. Totten earned his master's degree at Grambling State University, and was a graduate assistant on the coaching staff for head football coach Eddie Robinson. Totten returned to his alma mater and served as quarterbacks coach and running back coach during the 1990s before moving on to coach at the high school level for two years. He returned to the MVSU coaching staff in 2000, and was elevated to head coach in 2001. Totten brought pride back to Mississippi Valley State, as he led the Delta Devils to back-to-back winning seasons in 2005 and 2006. Totten resigned after the 2009 season, and took an administrative position at MVSU in 2010. In 2013, Totten became quarterbacks coach at Albany State University in Albany, Georgia for one season before accepting the quarterback coaching position at Alabama A&M University under new head football coach James Spady. Totten is one of a few college football coaches ever to coach in a stadium named after him. The Delta Devils football team plays in Rice- Totten Field, named for Totten and wide receiver Jerry Rice. He is a member of the College Football Hall of Fame. Totten is a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Willie ``Satellite'' Totten, a professor football player and educator, for his dedication to serving others and giving back to the African American community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Wanderers Home Missionary Baptist Church, a remarkable house of worship in Mound Bayou, Mississippi. The Wanderers Home Missionary Baptist Church has a rich history, which is a legend within itself. At the turn of the twentieth century, a group of Christian leaders and laymen, some early settlers and others who migrated to the town of Mound Bayou, were led by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit to come together to organize a church in the year of 1908. Some had acquired land and others sharecropped farms outside of the town limit. There was no church in the near vicinity of their homes, and means of transportation was limited. There had been a yearning for a place to meet and worship, to fellowship and to praise and give thanks unto the Almighty God for His goodness. Coming together in the home of Mr. and Mrs. Wash and Kerri Mosley who were early settlers, led to fruitful discussions and plans to lay the foundation for what was to become their own place of worship, the Wanderers Home Missionary Baptist Church located 2\1/2\ miles east of the town of Mound Bayou, MS. Initially, the church was located on the north side of Township Road, but later relocated to the south side of the road where they purchased land and built a church. The land was sold and later, rebuilt back on the north side, its present location. The late Reverend W.M. Wilson was named the first pastor and began with a small group of faithful members under the most humble circumstances and with lots of faith in God. As the town of Mound Bayou became a major tourist attraction, with the growing population and industrial development, the membership at Wanderers Home grew rapidly. The pulpit has been graced with some of the most remarkable preachers and ministers. The late Reverend Thornton, Reverend H.H. Humes, Reverend W.M. Stampley, Reverend W.M. Walden, Reverend Richardson, Reverend Zack Pittman, Reverend T.F. Hammond, Reverend C.H. Moreland, (who served as pastor for twenty-six years), Reverend Andrew Hawkins and Reverend Willie J. Jackson (the current pastor), was called as the leader of the congregation in 1991. Under the leadership of Pastor Moreland, a fellowship hall was added to the church as the need for a place to extend their fellowship beyond the sanctuary. Under the leadership of Pastor Jackson, many accomplishments have taken place: Wanderers Home became the first church in Mound Bayou to have full-time worship services; incorporated 4th Sunday Broadcast Worship Service; started weekly bible class for adults and youths; and organized and increased Youth ministry activities. The sanctuary was renovated with stained glass windows and new pews. Due to growth in membership the church purchased a van to transport elderly and youth parishioners. Over the years, the church has reached beyond its walls to support the community, families, other communities throughout Bolivar and surrounding counties through its Missionary Ministry, as well as its Youth and Adult ministries. Wanderers Home supported and has been actively involved as a member of the Bolivar County Baptist Association since its organization, as well as a member of the State and National Congress of Christian Education. Many of its members have and continue to serve in leadership roles as leaders, teachers, and auxiliary heads in the organization. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Wanderers Home Missionary Baptist Church for their spiritual enhancements in Mound Bayou, the surrounding communities and the State of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a resourceful church, Lebanon Missionary Baptist Church. The Lebanon Missionary Baptist Church had its beginning in 1869, when the congregation worshipped under a ``brush harbor'' with the Reverend David Adams serving as pastor and founder. Realizing the need for a structure in which to worship, the pastor and members put forth every effort to design and construct the first church. The building was erected approximately 60 to 70 feet from the old church site. As we look back over the 147-year history of Lebanon, we are reminded of the loyal devotion of the early pioneers and their steadfastness to the cause of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We attribute any success or progress of this church to their loyalty. The Reverend David Adams served faithfully as pastor until his death; and the Reverend Riley Russell accepted the call as pastor and served diligently until his death. Some of the early pastors were the Reverends: S.D. Smith; Joe Baskin; Dan Anderson; Connelly; J. A. Johnson; Pleasant Fractions; Jimmy Mines; and J. Carter. The Lebanon Missionary Baptist Church is recognized as the oldest land grant church in this area. It has served as a torch shining forth ``her'' brilliant light in this community. This light of hope and compassion has compelled many to come to Christ. No church can survive without the dedicated cooperation of its members. The long, successful history of Lebanon is due to the dedicated, cooperative efforts of the many pastors, deacons, church mothers, and general congregation. Some of the early deacons were: Brothers Joe Hodges; Pink Roseby; Ben Friar; C. H. Benson; R. B. Roseby; Richard Epps; Michael C. Smith; George Friar; and Tom Randle. In 1912, the first church was destroyed by a violent storm. The force of the storm served as the epitome for the rebuilding of the second church, and its completion was the epoch of the old church site. Some of the pioneer members of the Mothers Board were: Sisters Ophelia Anderson; Mary Benson; Sara Smith; Mary Anderson; Lucy Hunter; Hassie Montgomery; Harriet Craighead; Mattie L. Benson; Martha Ross Benson; and Sallie Epps. Still moving forward, the Reverend A. W. Jones accepted the call as pastor. He served well until his accepting the call of another church. Following Reverend Jones, the Reverends: C. D. Brown; C. L. Clark; George Harper; Aaron Barron; and Melvin Lewis served as pastor of Lebanon. Deacons serving under these administrations were: Brothers West Benson; Eddie Donelson; Leslie Hodges; Edgar Waddell; Pinkney Benson; Daniel Mickey; Daniel Kimbrough; Ira Blake; Mack Friar; O. W. Hodges; Mack McKennie; Samuel Friar; Charles Quincy Spurlin; Jessie Harmon; L. B. Hathorn; Alphonso Wright; Jacob J. McClain; and Charlie Benson. The Mothers Board consisted of: Sisters Harriet Friar, Hallie Donelson, Elmira Horton, Minnie Hodges, Lyda Friar, Mary V. Hodges, Rebecca Kimbrough, Bessie Green, Roberta Blake, Priscilla Benson, Lillie Waddell, Mamie McKennie, Mary L. Friar, Mattie L. Hodges, Paralee McClain, Frankie Hodges, Eula Spurlin, Callie McKennie, Willie Mae Meeks, Ollie Harmon, and Olivia Garnett. The edifice of the old church underwent many changes such as: lowering the ceilings; modern light fixtures; paneling of the sanctuary; bricking; and the construction of a kitchen and fellowship hall. Sanctuary pews, a communion table, and new pulpit furniture were purchased to enhance the decor of the church. These ventures of improvement were all completed under the leadership of the Reverend Aaron Barron. Reverend Barron served as pastor for 27 consecutive years. He was a faithful and dynamic minister of the Gospel. During his administration, many souls realized the need for peace in their lives--that peace that surpassed all understanding--and accepted Christ as their personal Savior. Reverend Aaron Barron exchanged mortality for immortality and entered unto eternity in October 1983, while serving as pastor of Lebanon. In January 1984, the Reverend Melvin B. Lewis accepted the call and served as pastor until 1987. Under the leadership of Reverend Lewis, a pastor's study was constructed, central heat and air conditioning was installed, and an organ was purchased for the sanctuary. In June 1987, the Reverend J. W. Redmond accepted the call to serve as pastor of Lebanon. The church was blessed with many members, an Inspirational Choir, and Evangelist Quinzola McKennie. Brothers: Coy Henderson; Leslie McKennie; Charlie Wright; Larry McKennie; and Paul Gilmore were installed as deacons. Installed on the Mothers Board were Sisters: Ola Mae Bailey, Priscilla Anderson, Grace Kimbrough, Rose Gibson, and as Deaconess were Sisters: Minnie McKennie, Sharon Wright, and Annie Gilmore. Under the leadership of Reverend Redmond, a new roof was installed on the church, the choir stand was elevated and carpeted, floral arrangements and doors were added to the sanctuary. Following the leadership of the pastor, the Lebanon Inspirational Choir dedicated to the church some choir robes, and added mirrors and double doors to the sanctuary, remodeled and refurnished the pastor's study. The Friar and Montgomery families dedicated chandeliers to enhance the entrance of the church. Reverend Redmond exchanged mortality for immortality and entered unto eternity in January 2000, while serving as pastor of Lebanon Church. After the death of Reverend Redmond, the Reverend Walter Eskridge, Jr. accepted the call to serve as pastor of the Lebanon Missionary Baptist Church in October 2000. Under the leadership of Reverend Eskridge, the church has been blessed with many new members and rededications. A new church building was erected on land given to the church by Sis. Earsalean McClain's family, and the doors were opened for the first service on July 4, 2004; new choir robes were purchased for LSC, LIC, and LYC; a television and VCR were purchased through the aid of the Home Mission Society; Discipleship and New Members classes were started; the Fellowship Hall has been named the Earsalean McClain Fellowship Hall in memory of Sis. Earsalean McClain; the Educational Wing has been named the Martha Ross Benson Educational Wing in memory of Sis. Martha Ross Benson; each classroom has been named in memory of: Class Number 1-- Deacon Samuel Friar; Class Number 2--Mother Elmira Horton; Class Number 3--Mother Lillie Waddell; Nursery--Mothers Callie McKennie and Roberta Blake; Choir Room--Sister Levirda Dixon and Bro. Eric Friar; and the Business Office in honor of Deacon Jessie Harmon, and the church is growing through his ministry. A new roof ``The Red Top'' was installed on the church. On June 7, 2015 Bro. Andrew Lee Brown was crowned as Deacon. The Lebanon Missionary Baptist Church's current Deacons and Trustees Board members are Brothers: Jessie Harmon; Coy Henderson; Lawrence McKennie; Andrew Brown; and Sisters: Lula Friar; Lillie Benson Green; and Earline Wright Hart. The present Mothers Board members are Sisters: Ollie Harmon and Deaconess, Sister Annie Gilmore. Through these many years of service to God and mankind, the Lebanon Missionary Baptist Church has survived many trials and tribulations, but are determined that forces of evil will not hinder them nor separate them from the love of God. The torch carried by the pioneer members of the Lebanon Missionary Baptist Church, cast rays of light across their pathway. This light gives the church hope of a brighter future for the church. Those following will raise that torch high and keep the light burning bright. They will trim their lamps, put on the whole armor of God, and continue to hold up the blood stained banner. It is with this same spirit as soldiers going forth to war, accented with Christian love, devotion and dedication to the cause of the Kingdom, which the history of the Lebanon Missionary Baptist Church continues. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the historic Lebanon Missionary Baptist Church.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, while I commend Mr. DeFazio and his colleagues for negotiating language to enhance aviation safety, I must rise in opposition to this legislation. My problem with the resolution stems from a potential job-killing provision inserted in the homeland security portion of the package. Understandably, after the airport attacks in Brussels and, more recently, Istanbul, there is interest in strengthening aviation security. Section 3405 directs TSA to update regulations for eligibility, including disqualifying offenses, for SIDA airport credentials, which airport workers need to perform their jobs. There is no evidence that this additional scrutiny would strengthen aviation security. What we do know for sure is that the changes would unjustifiably put workers at risk of losing their jobs. As such, it should come as no surprise that the International Association of Machinists, the Communication Workers of America, and the Transportation Workers Union have come out in strong opposition to this resolution. That measure, H.R. 3102, also was approved by voice vote in the House this past October. The language before us today goes several steps further than H.R. 3102, unjustifiably lengthening the well-litigated 10-year look-back period from 10 to 15 years. The men and women who will be subject to this arbitrary change have as strong, if not more, of an interest as you or me in preventing terrorism in airports. They deserve better than living in fear that they will be able to lose their jobs in the name of homeland security.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable public servant, Ms. L'Dina Robinson, the Daughter Ruler and State President of the Grace Jones Temple of Daughter Elkton's. Ms. Robinson has held this position since 1957. Ms. Robinson has been a daughter member of the L. K. Atwood Elk's Lodge Number 518 located on Lynch Street since 1952 some 59 years. Ms. Robinson is a product of the city of New Orleans, Louisiana. She attended and graduated from Gilbert Academy High School. She also attended and graduated from Dillard University located in Louisiana. Ms. Robinson's work histories include: Office manager for the Historical Edward Lee Hotel of West Church Street and Instructor at Campbell College located on Lynch Street. Ms. Robinson worked many years for the United States Veterans Administration Regional Office. She was first employed as a clerk and she retired as a senior executive several years ago. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ms. L'Dina Robinson for her dedication to serving.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 5389, the Leveraging Emerging Technologies Act of 2016. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to cosponsor H.R. 5389, a bipartisan bill that directs the Department of Homeland Security to engage, in an unprecedented fashion, with developers of innovative and emerging technologies. When it comes to tackling vexing homeland security challenges, Washington does not have the monopoly on groundbreaking, forward- thinking ideas. H.R. 5389 specifically directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to engage with innovative and emerging technology developers to help tackle the rapidly expanding list of homeland security technology needs. To encourage such engagement, the bill authorizes DHS to establish personnel and office space in diverse geographical areas around the United States that have high concentrations of technology developers and firms to nurture relationships. In April 2015, the Department announced that it was establishing a Silicon Valley office to cultivate relationships with technology innovators, particularly nontraditional performers, such as small startups, investors, incubators, and accelerators. The establishment of this office is in furtherance of DHS' homeland security innovation program, whose goal is to generate innovation in hubs around the Nation and the world to solve DHS' most difficult technology challenges. Over the past year, through these programs, DHS has reached out to technology innovators and other stakeholders at regional events held in Boston, Pittsburgh, San Francisco, New Orleans, Chicago, Louisville, and Austin. To ensure that DHS pursues outreach to innovators and related stakeholders in a thoughtful manner, H.R. 5389 also directs DHS, within 6 months, to develop and submit to Congress a Department-wide strategy for such engagement. Importantly, the bill specifically calls for DHS to include ways to effectively engage with technology-based small businesses and startup ventures in the strategy. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this legislation. H.R. 5389 was unanimously approved by the Committee on Homeland Security on June 8. It recognizes that DHS depends on technology to carry out its missions and for the Department to effectively identify, support, and procure innovative technology. DHS must nurture and maintain robust and direct relationships with technology developers. Two features of the strategy required under this act that I would like to highlight are that it directs DHS to give attention to fostering engagement with developers that may be located outside a recognized regional technology hub, and coordinate with venture capital organizations to help emerging technology developers, including small businesses and startup ventures, commercialize technologies that address a rapidly growing list of homeland security needs. I also join my colleague from Texas in supporting this legislation. Mr. Speaker, I urge support of H.R. 5389. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise in support of H.R. 5388, the Support for Rapid Innovation Act of 2016. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 5388, the Support for Rapid Innovation Act of 2016, directs the Department of Homeland Security to support advancements in cybersecurity research. Hackers, cyberterrorists, and other cybercriminals are constantly innovating. As such, it is a security imperative that the Federal Government--or, more specifically, DHS-- innovate, too. To that end, H.R. 5388 directs DHS to support promising projects to, among other things, improve the detection of cyber attacks or intrusions and mitigation and recovery from such attacks. This bill is based on two provisions contained in H.R. 3578, the DHS Science and Technology Reform and Improvement Act, which passed the House last December. Specifically, H.R. 5388 directs DHS' Under Secretary for Science and Technology to bolster research and development of cybersecurity technology to improve the sharing of information, analysis, and methodologies to address cybersecurity risk and incidents. Additionally, H.R. 5388 extends for 4 years the Department's authority to utilize other transaction authority instead of the Federal Acquisition Regulation to fund basic, applied, and advanced R&D projects. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bipartisan legislation. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, our Nation faces growing, diverse, and increasingly sophisticated cybersecurity threats. These threats necessitate a Federal response that includes supporting innovative cybersecurity research and development, testing, and evaluation. This response is dependent on strong public and private collaboration. Such collaboration is essential to ensuring that promising technologies are introduced into the marketplace in a timely manner. With that, Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 5388. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Louisiana (Mr. Richmond).

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, we have had a number of people talk about San Bernardino. I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from California (Mr. Aguilar), whose district includes San Bernardino, where the shooting occurred.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I yield the gentleman an additional 30 seconds.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable history maker, Mrs. Marilyn D. Adams-Cox, a resident of Cleveland, Mississippi. Mrs. Adams-Cox is the daughter of Ms. Minnie Adams-Moore, and her paternal grandparents are the late Jack and Savannah Carlize, Sr. Mrs. Adams-Cox was born into a history making lineage. Her paternal grandparents had no problem being the first African Americans in the City of Cleveland, Mississippi to become prosperous entrepreneurs with numerous businesses, and her paternal grandmother being one of the first Bolivar County Head Start teachers. Mrs. Adams-Cox saw the work ethic in her mother and parental grandparents and knowing that they did not allow anything to stop them from pursuing their life objectives as they demonstrated to family members that all things are possible if you believe in God. She was fortunate to attend school in the Cleveland School District where Mrs. Minnie Evans and Mr. Nathan Tharp, who were teachers at B.L. Bell Elementary, had a profound impression on her when they taught on the importance and power of voting. When she attended Eastwood Junior High, the principal, Mr. Walter Robinson, instilled in her the importance of getting an education by constantly enforcing his motto: ``You can always learn something.'' Upon entering East Side High School she was met with a powerful government class educator, Mr. Ned Tolliver who stresses the importance of knowing how government works and how one's vote has influence. During her senior year of high school she registered to vote and has casted her vote in every election. After high school she attended Alcorn State University and met others who had a positive influence in her life. Due to the strong motivators in her life, her goal early in her youth was to be an asset in society. In 1993 she was blessed with a position with the City of Cleveland, and after three years of employment became the first African American Manager/Director of the Water Department which serves over 6,000 water customers. The City of Cleveland was chartered in 1886 and after 110 years in existence she made history and carried on her family lineage. Furthermore, she is always willing to do the unthinkable to ensure that each and every life she touched would be touched in a positive way. Mrs. Cox is active in civic and social organizations and has received numerous awards. Mrs. Adams-Cox is married to Michael Cox and they have one daughter, Elisha, in whom she has instilled the importance of getting an education and making sure she understands the power and influence within her vote. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mrs. Marilyn Adams-Cox, an amazing history maker in serving others.