Bennie Thompson

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a goal oriented student at Quitman County Middle School. JaQuon M. Lott is the son of Tiara Lott of Lambert, MS. He has been attending Quitman County Middle School for two years. He is active in many school activities such as football, basketball, track and field, student council, and choir. He also is an active hall monitor for Quitman County Middle School. Along with his many school and academic responsibilities, JaQuon also takes part in his community and participated in Support the Vote initiative that the Student Council sponsored in November. JaQuon hopes to one day attend Mississippi State University or Alcorn State University to fulfill his dreams of one day playing in the NFL. A second part of his dream is to receive a Master's Degree in Engineering. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing JaQuon M. Lott as a student who is goal oriented and making a difference in his community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life and legacy of one of Mississippi's favorite sons and one of the icons of American music, Riley B. (``B.B.'') King. Born on a plantation between Indianola and Itta Bena, Mississippi, on September 16, 1925, B.B. King was raised in the Mississippi Delta and went on to become the unquestioned ``King of the Blues.'' Like many great musicians, B.B. King began his music career in church--singing in the choir of his grandmother's church in Kilmichael, Mississippi. Eventually, he went on to earn nickels and dimes for playing the guitar in the surrounding area. Mr. King was then introduced to Beale Street in Memphis and the Sonny Boy Williamson's Radio Show where he received his big break and gained his nickname ``Beale Street Blues Boy'' which was ultimately shortened to ``B.B.'' In the 1950's, B.B. King embarked on what would be a legendary touring career. This included a record-setting 342 appearances in 1956 with his band throughout the country in many venues ranging from those on the so-called ``Chit'lin Circuit'' to symphony concert halls. B.B. King often spent three hundred days out of the year performing on the road--even well into his 80's. In one of the most unruly experiences he had on the road, he was playing a concert hall where a fight broke out, a kerosene lamp was knocked over and a fire was started in the hall. B.B. realized that in the rush, he left his beloved guitar in the hall and ran back in to get it. He later discovered that the fight broke out over a woman named Lucille and he decided to name his guitar after her as a reminder to never do anything that crazy again. To this day, his trademark, black Gibson guitars are called ``Lucille.'' B.B. King had one of the most identifiable and unique guitar styles in music history. He integrated complex string blends and his left hand vibrato which created an almost vocal-sounding guitar sound. This sound can be heard on his many hits including ``Three O'Clock Blues,'' ``The Thrill Is Gone,'' and ``Stormy Monday'' B.B. King's awards and honors are almost countless. He was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame in 1984 and into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987. He has received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, Kennedy Center Honors and the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his contribution to American music. Additionally, he has been bestowed honorary doctorates from Tougaloo College, Mississippi Valley State University, Rhodes College, Yale University and Brown University. Although he had such immense success all over the world, B.B. King never lost touch with his Mississippi Delta roots and each year returned to his hometown of Indianola to give a concert at the B.B. King Homecoming Blues Festival. His iconic impact on music is a source of great pride for all Mississippians--especially those in the Delta. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my colleagues join me in celebrating the life and legacy of B.B. King. His work ethic and talent were immeasurable and his impact on American music is undeniable. He was a great bluesman, a great Mississippian and a great American. The ``King'' may have died today but his music will live on forever.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable Cadet COL Gregory Wilson, a senior at Murrah High School who is the Jackson Public School JROTC Cadet of the Year for 2015. While maintaining a 3.8 grade point average, Cadet Wilson has held several key leadership positions in the Battalion throughout his high school tenure. Cadet Wilson is a proud member of the National Honor Society and National Junior Classical League. He recently attended the American Legion Boys State where he was elected state treasurer. Cadet Wilson has also been actively involved in a variety of community service projects including Stewpot Summer Enrichment and Stop Hunger Now. Currently, he serves as the Cadet Battalion Commander for the ``Mustang'' Battalion. Cadet Wilson has been accepted to several colleges including the prestigious University of Mississippi Honors College. After graduating from Murrah with honors, Cadet Wilson will attend the University of Mississippi. He plans to attend medical school at an Army residency program. His vision is to become a pathologist for the United States Army. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Cadet COL Gregory Wilson.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a goal oriented student, Faatin Khaleelah Muhammad. Faatin Khaleelah Muhammad is the 17 year old daughter of James and Latonya Muhammad and is a member of Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church located in Natchez, Mississippi. Faatin has managed to maintain a 3.5 GPA for 4 years, at Jefferson County High School and throughout her life, excelled in school and sports: she has been a member of the Jefferson County High School Track team since 2012; she has received multiple plaques, ribbons, and metals for her performances; and she has served 2 years as a high school cheerleader. Faatin is currently president of FCCLA where she completed many community services and projects. She is also a member of FBLA, TSA, TATU and the Senior Transition Program. She has been in the Jefferson County High School Marching Band since the 9th grade. Upon graduation, Faatin will attend Alcorn State University located in Lorman, Mississippi. She will major in Animal Science with hopes to become an Animal doctor in Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Faatin Khaleelah Muhammad, as a student who is goal oriented and making a difference in her community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a goal oriented student at Quitman County Middle School. J'Myiah Smith is the daughter of Ms. Teresa Smith of Sledge, MS. She is a very intelligent individual, and she is an outstanding student because she continues to strive to maintain a spot on the Superintendent's List. Among her outstanding grades, J'Myiah was also elected as Miss Seventh Grade 2014-2015 by her peers. She is an active member of the Quitman County Middle School Student Council, Newspaper Committee, and QCMS S.T.E.F. Ambassador Society. J'Myiah is active in her community as well. On this past year, she participated in the ``I Support the Bond'' meetings and marches. She has collected clothes and donated them to the needy. She is also a member of her church's youth choir. J'Myiah plans to attend Jackson State University and later attend medical school. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing J'Myiah Smith as a student who is goal oriented and making a difference in her community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, Cedric Gardner is a John F. Kennedy 9th grade student of Mound Bayou, Mississippi and is a very diligent young student who is committed to learning and being an outstanding athlete. Prior to joining the Hornets football, baseball, basketball, cross country and track athletic programs, Cedric participated in numerous community athletic activities. Starting in 2006, he played in the Mound Bayou Mississippi Little League and Cleveland Mississippi Park Commission athletic programs. He was selected to be included in the 2011 edition of the United States Specialty Sports Association baseball. In 2012 he was one to be selected to participate in the Down Under Sports for Cross Country Runners and participated in the World Series for youth in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Even with facing prejudice, Cedric helped lead the John F. Kennedy's Cross Country team in winning their 1 A Title in 2014. Besides being an athlete, Cedric is also a member of The Future Business Leaders of America, Wander's Home Baptist Choir and Sunday School Records Clerk, as well as, playing the drums. Cedric is exciting, loveable and down to earth and loves to teach young youth athletics. He will always greet you with a handshake, hug or a smile. He made it his life's mission to continue the legacy of his late cousin, Coach Sank Powe, help others and encourage them that you can do anything you set your mind to. Cedric has decided, when he graduates in high school 2018, he will continue his education at The University of Oregon. He plans on becoming a professional Baseball Player or Coach/ Teacher. Cedric is the son of Tabithia Gardner and his motto is: ``Stay positive and always believe in yourself.'' Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing an amazing student.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a goal oriented student at Quitman County Middle School. Raveyn Nicole Jackson is the daughter of Ronnie and Bonnie Jackson of Marks, MS. She earned numerous academic awards at Quitman County Elementary School. She was the 2013-2014 Miss Quitman County Elementary School. While attending QCES, she received numerous awards in reading and math. She transitions on to Quitman County Middle School, where she continues to earn academic awards of achievement in Reading and Math. Raveyn is loved and respected by her classmates, community members, and parents. She is a member of the New St. John M.B. Church under the leadership of Pastor Jimmy Jones where she is very active in the choir. Raveyn plans to graduate from Madison Shannon Palmer High School and go on to a college of her choice majoring in Nursing or Education. She also plans to pursue and acquire her Master's Degree. Upon completion of her program of study, Raveyn plans to give back to her local community as a teacher or nurse. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Raveyn Nicole Jackson as a student who is goal oriented and making a difference in her community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a group of ladies who have shown what can be done through hard work, dedication and a desire to serve their community, the Ebonette Social & Civics Club. The Ebonette Social & Civics Club has served as an informational vehicle to citizens of Sharkey & lssaquena Counties. The Ebonette Social and Civics Club was established in 1968 with local ladies from Sharkey and Issaquena Counties. The mission and vision of the organization is for civic improvement and social entertainment. The Ebonette Social & Civics Club also provides and supports activities, services, programs and opportunities for the benefit of youth excellence and moral character; and to promote community and economic development. The Ebonettes give yearly scholarships to students from both South Delta High School and Sharkey Issaquena Academy. To date over $25,000 has been given. The scholarships given are not discriminated based on race or any ethnic background. The ladies also provide Christmas gifts to needy families, support Breast Cancer Organizations, provided support for burned out victims, provide meals for senior citizens and worked with the Hwy 14 clean-up and numerous of other community activities. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the Ebonette Social & Civics Club for its dedication to serving others and giving back to the community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Bahati S. Harden, MD, who has achieved remarkable success and has been exemplary as a physician and a public servant. Dr. Harden was born in Adams County in Natchez, MS on June 24, 1979 to the late George Harden and Deborah Harden. Being the baby girl, she was a godly child who called her father her best friend at an early age and grew up in a household of love and support. Bahati finished high school and received a scholarship to Spelman College in Atlanta, GA where she completed her studies in Biology in 2001. After graduating with a Master's of Science in Public Health from Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, she accepted a fellowship in Bioterrorism Preparedness with the Centers for Disease Control and prevention. Having a desire to pursue a medical degree, she entered the University of MS Medical Center's Inaugural Professional Portal Track. Having received a Master's of Science in Biomedical Science, she completed her Doctorate of Medicine also at the University of MS Medical Center. After completing a residency at LSU Health (Shreveport, LA) in Rural Family Medicine, Dr. Harden accepted a position in MS Delta with the Greenwood Leflore Hospital in Greenwood, MS where she continues to practice. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Bahati S. Harden, a Doctor and Public Servant, for her 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 the late Dr. David Matthews. A native of Indianola, Mississippi, Dr. Matthews left an impact on all whom he encountered through his work as a pastor, teacher, and elected official. A World War II Veteran, Matthews returned to Indianola Colored High School in 1946 to complete his high school diploma. Upon completion of his diploma, Dr. Matthews completed his studies at Morehouse College in 1950, and continued his studies at the Atlanta University, Memphis Theological Seminary, Delta State University, and Reformed Theological Seminary. Matthews served as pastor at Bell Grove Missionary Baptist Church and Stranger's Home Missionary Baptist Church in 1958, where he served until his death. Matthews also worked as a teacher for thirty-three years. He also served as the first Black Democratic Election Commissioner for Sunflower County, first Black Deputy Chancery Clerk of Sunflower County, first Black Honorary Deputy Sheriff and an original member of Indianola's biracial committee formed during the Civil Rights Era. He also served on the Governor's Commission of Mississippi. Dr. Matthews received his honorary Doctorate of Divinity from Natchez College, Doctorate of Humanities from Mississippi Industrial College and Doctorate of Divinity from Morris Booker College. On April 15, he left behind a loving and devoted wife of 64 years, Lillian, one daughter, and five grandchildren. Dr. David Matthews spent the entirety of his life serving others for the benefit of his greater community. He is one of the finest Mississippians, and he will be missed.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a goal oriented student, Olexis Brianna Haymon. Olexis is the daughter of Otha and Debra Haymon, longtime residents of Pickens, Mississippi. Olexis Brianna Haymon possesses a 4.0 grade-point average since she was in kindergarten. Currently a 12th-grader, Olexis Brianna Haymon is no stranger to community service. Whenever the town of Pickens, Mississippi has its cleanup days, Olexis is always right there doing her part to help her community. In additional to that, Olexis often volunteers to help her mother, Debra Haymon, an employee of Mid-Delta Home Health, with community health fairs. She is also an active participant in the Leadership program of the Mississippi State Extension Service for Holmes County, Mississippi. Olexis has made history as the first queen of the recently merged Holmes County Central High School of 2014-2015. The Holmes County School District merged all three of its high schools into one newly- named school for educational enhancement. Olexis is Miss Holmes County Central High School. Not only is Olexis active in her community, but also active in her school as well. She is a member of the PTSA (Parent Teacher Student Association) in which she is responsible for the school membership drive. According to one of her teachers, ``She encourages and provides help to fellow classmates because she believes in helping everyone succeed.'' She definitely tries to be a role model for the 9th graders. Her high school counselor commented in a letter of reference that ``Olexis is a well-rounded person. She is well behaved, has great personality and has many leadership qualities.'' Olexis also actively served as the 2014 president for her school's Jobs for Mississippi Graduates (JMG) program. Recently, she earned first place in the Community Students Learning Center's Annual Essay Writing Contest and thereby was the recipient of the Community Students Learning Center's Scholarship Award in the amount of $500.00. Olexis plans to use her CSLC scholarship winnings toward her college pursuit in nursing at Tougaloo College, Tougaloo, Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Olexis Brianna Haymon, as a student who is goal oriented and making a difference in her community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable church, New Hope First Baptist Church. In the year 1878, Rev. G.W. Gayles, a traveling missionary became pastor of the Mt. Horeb Missionary Baptist Church after the dismissal of Rev. H.M. McIntyre. Although his pastorship was that of outstanding achievements in the church, there arose feelings of rebellion. Eventually, Rev. Gayles with some of his deacons were disbarred from the church. Out of this band of members was born the now New Hope First Baptist Church. The first modern day pastor of the New Hope First Baptist Church was Rev. H.H. Humes who began pastoring the Church in 1927. Rev. Humes began a long tenure in 1927 which lasted until 1941. During the period of Rev. Humes' tenure in 1940 the church was completely torn down and rebuilt. Earlier the first floor was completely remodeled after the 1927 Flood. The structure completed in 1940 remained the home of New Hope First Baptist Church congregation until 1977. Rev. Humes left the church in 1941 only to return again as the pastor in 1954 and remained in that position until his death in January of 1958. In 1954, New Hope First Baptist Church began its long relationship with Rev. J.M. Kimble. Rev. Kimble served from 1958 until July of 1969. With his sweet spirit and general manners, Rev. Kimble typified the Christian spirit by his continued visits to the sick in homes and in hospitals. When Rev. Kimble initially left New Hope First Baptist Church in July of 1969, he was followed by Rev. Albert Jenkins who came in the autumn of 1969 and remained pastor until the early part of 1971. During Rev. Kimble's first tenure as pastor, the church purchased additional land and property on the corner of Theobald and Nelson Streets. At that time the Trustees included Constance W. Watson, Herbert Caver, Joe Hillard and Jessis Winters. Rev. Kimble returned to New Hope in the early part of 1971 and is presently the pastor. He, like those who preceded him, again took up the challenge of a progressive and assertive Christian force in Greenville. The progress of the church was remarkable as exemplified by the newly constructed building which was made available for services in May of 1978. The Sunday School, Bible Class, Christian Education, N.B.C., Ushers, Deaconess Broad, Deacons, Pastor's Aid Club, Senior Mission, J.M.A., Red Circle, Choirs, and Trustee Boards have played an important part in the growth and development of this church. On January 1, 1987, New Hope started commencing full-time service. In recognition of the same, Pastor Kimble and all other New Hopers are very, very grateful to God and the members of the organizational structure committee for having made a giant step toward providing opportunities for all members of New Hope First Baptist Church to become involved in the church's total program. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing New Hope First Baptist Church for its longevity and dedication to serving others.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Chairman, reclaiming my time, I accept the gentleman's reinterpretation of the statement, and we will go forward. Let me just say that, yesterday, on a 7-year sunset on an Intelligence bill, the House resoundingly voted for this very same amendment, 313-110. It is clear that the congressional intent is, within 7 years, that it should have been ample time for this bill to be law and now set a record for us to come back as Members of Congress and do our oversight responsibility. Mr. Chairman, I am in strong support of Mr. Mulvaney's amendment. It is common sense. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. I yield to the gentleman from Texas.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Thank you. Mr. Chairman, I will read for the Record the statement my chairman made in Rules. Mr. McCaul said: There is an amendment that has a 7-year sunset provision, and I will be honest, I will not oppose that. I think 7 years is ample time to advance those relationships and while, at the same time, giving Congress the authority to reauthorize after a 7-year period.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. I yield to the gentleman from Texas, my chairman.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Chairman, I appreciate, as I said, the maker of this amendment. Let me be clear, I offered the very same amendment in markup. It failed on a party-line vote, and this is democracy; but a little thing that concerns me is that, when we went to the Rules Committee, my chairman gave an indication that he really didn't have a problem with the 7-year sunset.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Chairman, this amendment would authorize the Department of Homeland Security's program to provide web- based security services to U.S. Federal civilian agencies. The program is known as EINSTEIN. When fully implemented, it is expected to provide all participating Federal agencies with the ability to know the cyber threats they face and protect their systems from insider and outsider threats. To fully implement EINSTEIN to protect Federal civilian networks, there are complex interagency privacy and coordination issues that still need to be settled. This authorization should help the Department of Homeland Security's efforts at closing out those issues as it confers specific statutory authority to the Department to pursue EINSTEIN. I support the amendment, and I urge my colleagues to vote ``aye.'' Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Chairman, I have no additional requests for time, so I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Chairman, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Connolly).

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Chairman, I claim the time in opposition, although I am not in opposition to the amendment.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Chair, I claim the time in opposition, although I am not in opposition to the amendment.

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

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Chairman, I continue to reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. As someone involved in this issue for many years, I am not surprised by the overwhelming support that H.R. 1731 has garnered. Today, the House has the opportunity to join with the President and stakeholders from across our critical infrastructure sectors to make our Nation more secure. By casting a vote in favor of H.R. 1731, you will be putting the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal civilian lead for cyber information sharing, on a path to fully partnering with the private sector to protect the U.S. networks. Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.