Bennie Thompson

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Attorney Will Ellis Pittman. Attorney Pittman was born and raised in Tutwiler, MS. Mr. Pittman is 51 years old. He is the owner and managing member of Pittman & Associates, PLLC law firm in Clarksdale, Mississippi where he also serves as the first African-American County Prosecutor for Coahoma County. Attorney Pittman also serves as the board attorney for the Tunica County Board of Supervisors and is the first African-American to represent the Tunica County Board of Supervisors. Attorney Pittman is recognized amongst family, his community, and his colleagues as a man of wisdom, service, a generous spirit, and passion. He regularly attends and serves on the finance committee of the Galena Missionary Baptist Church in Tutwiler, Mississippi which he grew up in and joined at eight years of age. Ellis attended and graduated from public high school in Tallahatchie County, Mississippi. After earning his high school diploma, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. While in the Marine Corps, Ellis married his high school sweet heart, and they had two (2) children. After being honorably discharged from the Marine Corps, Ellis returned to his home town in Tutwiler. However, he was unable to find employment anywhere in the delta area. Ellis returned to work and earned a living on the plantation in Tallahatchie County where he grew up. Ellis worked six (6) sometimes seven (7) days a week to provide food, shelter, and the bare necessities for his family. He always knew that if given the opportunity, he would provide them with a better way of life. After working one full year and saving every penny that he could, Ellis departed for Dallas, Texas where he obtained a job with a janitorial service, cleaning grocery stores at night. Within two months Ellis saved enough funds for a deposit and first months' rent on an apartment. He then returned to Mississippi to get his wife and child and they returned to Dallas, Texas. Within six months, the store at which Ellis was employed took notice of his hard work and daily attendance and the store manager offered him a job as an apprentice baker that provided health insurance, dental, and vision benefits for both him and his family. With this break, Ellis used the extra earnings to provide a better place for his family to stay. Within six months, Ellis had worked his way from an apprentice baker to a journeyman baker and was able to provide his family with the kind of things that he had always dreamed of having. Although he excelled in his employment, Ellis realized that in order to do more for his family he would have to obtain a college education. At the same time, Ellis desired to return home to be with his elderly father who became ill. So, he applied for and was hired with the Mississippi Department of Corrections as a correctional officer trainee. He then made plans to attend Mississippi Valley State University to obtain a college degree. Prior to applying to Mississippi Valley State University, the Pittman's home caught on fire in which Ellis received second and third degree burns over a large portion of his body. His wife received severe burns as well. After a month, she passed away from the injuries she sustained from the fire. Ellis remained in the Greenville Burn Center for a month and half before he was released. After a short period of time, he returned to his place of employment at the Mississippi State Penitentiary. The home that he had purchased for his family had burned down, so the Department of Corrections provided him with a house on the ground for him and his two minor sons to live. At this point, he made the decision not to attend Mississippi Valley State University due to the drive because he would have to commute. Being a single parent and still having to work, Ellis applied to Delta State University which was closer to where he was living at the penitentiary and he could make the daily commute. He commuted five days a week for three years until he graduated from Delta State University with a degree in criminal justice and political science. Prior to graduation from Delta State University, Ellis applied to law school at Mississippi College, Thurgood Marshall School of Law, and the University Of Mississippi School Of Law. He was accepted for admission at all three law schools. However, he chose to attend the University of Mississippi--School of Law due to the financial aid available for African-American applicants. After obtaining his law degree and license to practice law, Ellis returned to the Mississippi Delta from Memphis, Tennessee and opened Pittman Law Office in Clarksdale, Mississippi in 1996 where he continues to practice to this day. Ellis has given countless young lawyers, that have recently graduated with no experience and unable to find a job, a position at his law office to give them a start. He realized that most people will do well if given the chance which he learned from personal experience when he needed someone to give him a chance. There has not been a time when a newly admitted lawyer came to Ellis looking for job and was turned down for employment. Ellis' practice has included representing countless individuals in cases for excessive force, employment discrimination, criminal defense, family law, as well as personal injury and wrongful death. Attorney Will Ellis Pittman's work ethic, passion, dedication, dependability, and service have made him synonymous with being one of the best, if not the best, attorney around. At the end of the day, Ellis is recognized for his service to God, his family, his country, his community, and the people that seek his help. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Attorney Will Ellis Pittman for his dedication to serving this great state and country.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a determined young lady, LaTonya Denise Cotton. Ms. Cotton has shown what can be done through hard work, dedication and a desire to make a positive difference in her community. LaTonya Denise Cotton, a resident of Anguilla, Mississippi, was born on January 29, 1976 to Diane Cotton and Tom Davis in Hollandale, Mississippi. She is a graduate of Anguilla High School. LaTonya is the author of a historical novel called ``A Small Peyton Place in a Town Called Anguilla''. She has plans to make a movie based on the novel. LaTonya has served as a volunteer through the AmeriCorps program as a career trainer in Sharkey County. LaTonya has been a devout member of Union Chapel Baptist Church in Anguilla, MS for thirty one years. She is the proud parent of two girls, Dominique and Sumonia Cotton. She enjoys time with family and friends. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ms. LaTonya Denise Cotton for her dedication to serving her community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I have one speaker before I close. I yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. Jackson Lee), the ranking member on the Subcommittee on Border and Maritime Security of the Committee on Homeland Security.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Reverend Thaddeus J. Williams, a native of Yazoo City, Mississippi. Reverend Thaddeus J. Williams is married to the former Teresa L. Buckner and the father to four children: Sam, Dante', Philip, and Alexandria. He is a Licensed and Ordained Minister of the Gospel and currently serves as Minister of Membership Assimilation at Greater Fairview Baptist Church. Reverend Williams is currently enrolled in Mississippi Baptist Seminary and Bible College pursuing a Master in Christian Education. He earned a B.S. degree in Business Administration from Mississippi Valley State University in 1987 and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Mississippi in 1991. He is a graduate of the Mississippi Certified Public Manager Program, the John C. Stennis Institute of Government, Leadership Yazoo City's Inaugural Class in 1992, and the 2008 Inaugural Class of FOCUS--DMH's Succession Planning/Accelerated Leadership Development Program. Reverend Williams organized and has facilitated T and T (Thad and Teresa) Food/Outreach Ministry since 2000 where they have received both national and local recognition for their service to the community including the 2014 ``WJTV Jefferson Award'' and the 2013 Southern Christian Services ``Hands of Providence Award.'' Reverend Williams has served as Chaplain for the Mississippi Valley State University National Alumni Association, employed with the State of Mississippi since 1992 and currently with Mississippi Department of Mental Health's Central Office where he was voted by his peers as the 2012 Employee of the Year. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Reverend Thaddeus J. Williams.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Barbara Baymon who is a remarkable Leader and Public Servant. Ms. Barbara Baymon holds a B.A. degree in Speech Communication from Mississippi Valley State University and an M.A. degree from Arkansas State University. Ms. Baymon teaches a variety of speech courses in the department of Communication and is also the Director of Theater. She is the Coordinator for the Speech Communication major. Each semester, Ms. Baymon directs one or more productions that features MVSU students and is performed on campus and on the road. Her duties also include serving on various departmental and university committees. Ms. Baymon is also active in her community. She is an Alderwoman for Isola and President of Humphrey County Hospital Board of Directors. Her memberships include Alpha Kappa Mu Honor Society, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc, Mississippi Theater Association, Mississippi Communication Association, International Communication Association and Southern Conference on Afro-American Studies, Inc. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ms. Barbara Baymon, a leader 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 a remarkable American Soldier, Master Sergeant Charles Miller, a resident of Clarksdale, Mississippi. Master Sergeant Charles E. Miller started his military career, June 1978, at Fort McClellan, Alabama. Master Sergeant Miller was in the first group of Soldiers to participate in the One Station Unit Training (OSUT), this program entailed Soldiers going through Basic Training and Military Occupation Specialty (MOS) training, at the same military post with the same Drill Sergeants. After completing basic training and his military occupation specialty training in January 1978, he is now qualified to be a Military Policeman (MP). Master Sergeant Miller was stationed at Fort Sill, Oklahoma as a Military Policeman, with the 546th MP Company. After 18 months at Fort Sill, Oklahoma Master Sergeant Miller received orders to report to Baumholder, West Germany, as a Physical Security Specialist. At the end of June 1981, MSG Miller ended his time in service, receiving an honorable discharge. In January 1982, MSG Miller re-enlisted in the U.S. Army at Fort Dix, New Jersey, to attend Truck Driving School. March 1982, after successfully completing the Truck Driver School, he was reassigned to the 66th Engineer (ADM) Company, Fort Hood, Texas. December 1983, MSG Miller was reassigned to Charlie Company 249th Engineer BN., Karlsruhe, West Germany. December 1986, he returned stateside where he was discharged with an Honorable Discharge. Master Sergeant Miller still wanted to serve his country so he enlisted in the U.S. Army Reserve, 479th Ordinance Company, Lyon Mississippi. The 479th ORD. CO. was activated to active duty, September 1990 to support the Gulf War. The 479th Ord. Co., arrived in Saudi Arabia, November 1990. In July 1991, the 479th ORD. Company returned home to receive a Heroes' Welcome. In July 2001, Master Sergeant Miller was transferred to the 412th Engineer Command, Vicksburg, Mississippi. April 2006, Master Sergeant Miller was called to active duty to support Operation Iraqi Freedom where he was stationed at Baghdad, Iraqi. In April 2008, Master Sergeant Miller returned home. Master Sergeant Miller took the position as First Sergeant (1SG), April 2012, with the 4/323rd REGT, this is a Drill Sergeant Unit, U.S. Army Reserve. Master Sergeant Miller recalls when he was stationed in Germany, assigned to the 249th ENG BN, his First Sergeant at the time asked him if he wanted to go to Drill Sergeant School and he declined. Master Sergeant Miller wishes today that his First Sergeant would have asked him several times and given him more information on becoming a Drill Sergeant. In the reserve component the First Sergeant is just the manager of the unit, he or she does not have to be a Drill Sergeant. As of March 17, 2014, Master Sergeant Miller is now re-assigned to the 412th Theater Engineer Command, Vicksburg, Mississippi. He speaks highly about the 412th Theater Command, he says, he is now back home. Master Sergeant Miller is fully aware that his military career is now coming to an end, and when he does retire it will be a difficult transition. Serving in the military was never a mistake to him, it is a privilege which he is so glad that he took advantage of to serve our great country. Master Sergeant Miller has numerous military occupation specialties, he is qualified as an Army Maintenance Management System Clerk, Prescribed Load List Clerk, Ammunition Specialist, Transportation Operator, Military Police, Physical Security Specialist, and Supply Specialist. During Master Sergeant Miller's military career, he has received numerous awards, not listed in prestigious order to include: Meritorious Service Medal, Army Occupation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Army Overseas Service Ribbons, Army Good Conduct Medal, Army Reserve Overseas Training Ribbons, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Army NCO Professional, Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Southwest Asia Service Ribbons and Drivers Badge. Master Sergeant Miller is married to Mrs. Florine Miller and they have 3 daughters: Lakechia, Tiffany, and Alexis; one son, French and 6 grandchildren. Master Sergeant Miller is son of Eddie & Evelyn Brown, and Willard Hughes and has 2 sisters: Jackie and Shelia; and 5 brothers: Willous, Allen, Reginald, Michael and Willard. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing a distinguished American Soldier.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a man of noble character from Shaw, MS in Bolivar County. I believe that when you give honor and recognition to someone they should truly deserve it. I am always happy when I meet someone or hear their story about overcoming, rising from obscurity, coming from meager beginnings but leaving a legacy although unaware; which doesn't get the recognition and thanks it really deserves. This is why I want to honor Mr. Tommy Gunns, Jr. a man of ``noble'' character. Childhood: Nottie was originally from Egypt, MS in Chickasaw County, MS. He was born in the year 1900 to Mr. Tommy Gunns, Sr. and Mrs. Alberta Gunns. Nottie was raised in a home with his mother, his only sister named Alma, and his stepfather, ``Mr. Brick''. His parents were sharecroppers and struggled; which was the backdrop for an unstable home environment that easily led to abuse. And Nottie was often times the one subjected to the abuse (verbal and physical) by his stepfather. Since his mother would not protect him and because of years of abuse, he developed the drive early in life to want ``better,'' so he planned to run away, someday. In his plan, he always included Alma, his young sister. The day came when he ran away and took Alma with him, never returning home. Nottie ran away and arrived in Shaw, MS in 1914. He was a young teenager when he ran away. When Nottie arrived in Shaw, he worked as many odd jobs as he could find and raised his sister alone; vowing to never let anyone else abuse him or his little sister. In fact, he was so protective of her that he never eased up until he had approved of the man she married. He had to be assured the man was not abusive and was a good provider for Alma. A Young Man and Family Man: As a young man working in Shaw he was able to acquire many skills and a reputation as a fast learner, hard worker, and a person of good moral character, which equated to a nonsense type of reputation. He was still determined to have a better life and wanted to be respected and treated like a man so he carried himself like a man. Nottie eventually earned that reputation and people began calling him Mr. Nottie or Mr. Gunns. Some of the jobs he worked included driving trucks to haul logs, a loader at the Shaw lumber yard, and sharecropping as a small farmer. While working at the Shaw lumber yard, he learned the skill of carpentry; and became known as a master carpenter around Shaw. Everyone wanted him to do their work. Mr. Gunns eventually met and married, Nancy Hunt of Shaw, MS. The couple had ten children, 2 died shortly after child birth. Mr. Gunns wanted a big loving family that was full of happy times but serious about life. He directed his journey and based goals in life on his childhood, all that he never had, he was determined to experience before dying. His and Nancy's children are Berna ``BB'' Gunns-Williams, Nathaniel ``Baby Sister'' Gunns-Clark, Tommy ``Win'' Gunns, Jr. (although he is the 3rd), Christine Gunns-Gardner, Torries Gunns, Maurine ``Morgan'' Gunns-Gray, Shirley Ann ``Shelly'' Gunns-Juette, and Lonnie Lee Gunns. As a husband, father, and community member, Mr. Gunns saw the need to become more involved. You see he wanted to be a role model for his children; he wanted to make sure they had a good upbringing and education, so he felt he needed to get involved in the community and help make it happen. Mr. Gunns served as a volunteer fireman for the city. He wasn't trying to be a hero or win a popularity campaign; he just wanted a better life for his children. Mr. Gunns number one priority was education for all colored children. Since he was very vocal about education he was asked to become a member of the Board of Trustees for the Shaw Colored School. The Shaw Colored School only educated children to the 8th grade. Beyond 8th grade the colored children had to travel to Greenville or surrounding towns for a high school education. Mr. Gunns helped changed that. He convinced the Board of Trustees to agree to vote on establishing a curriculum for 9th through 12th grades for Shaw students to be able to get their high school education. So, under his tutelage the first high school graduating class from the Shaw Colored High School was in 1949. How did he do it? Mr. Gunns had an unyielding faith. That was the same faith that brought him as a young teenage runaway with his little sister, Alma, safely to Shaw, MS during the early 1900s. His faith in God provided him with jobs to take care of himself and his sister as a young boy, alone in the Mississippi Delta. His ability to pick up on things and learn fast paid off because he became that master carpenter. His daughter, Maurine said he could build a house from the ground up. He was a devoted member and deacon of the Strangers Home M.S. Church in Shaw, where he was laid to rest for eternity. And those trying times were no match for his common sense, the old folks called it ``mother wit'' for survival. It was the foundation of his approach on how to survive in life: Financial Policy--never spend all your money. Save some for a rainy day. Child Rearing--everybody has a role and place. Only adults are in charge and children are to stay in their place and do as they are told. He called it his no nonsense approach to raising children. He would often paraphrase Proverbs 13:24, by saying ``Spare the rod and spoil the child.'' Preparation--your future depends on your education. ``All my children are going to college. I had enough children to work and chip in to help pay for everyone's college,'' he would say. The End: The first of Mr. Gunns' children to go to college was Berna at the age of 16. This was made possible by two reasons: (1) everyone in the family picked and chopped cotton, and (2) his financial policy of saving money. The children all knew their earnings went to their parents to help provide for the family and save for college. Berna went to Tuskegee Institute in 1950 in Tuskegee, AL. Berna graduated before he died. He was able to see the first of his children to get a college education. His daughter, Berna remembers her father and mother faces as they watched her graduate with all her sisters and brothers watching as well. They knew they had to do it too. Berna went on to become a self- employed, self-made millionaire. She started her own company ``Scrubbles Janitorial Service'' in her home and grew it to become a multi-million dollar company in Washington, DC. She was able to live that better life because of her fathers' determination to clear the path. Mr. Gunns didn't live to see another one of his children to go to college, he died in 1954 but he had already planted the seeds for success. Everyone in the family knew their place and role. Mrs. Gunns, his wife and eldest daughter, Berna carried on his mantra for every child of his going to college. Mrs. Gunns continued to work as the cafeteria manager and cook for the Shaw Colored School. Tommy, his eldest son, became the father figure for his siblings. Since his father had taught him the carpentry trade, Tommy was able to get his father's job at the Shaw Lumber Yard. It was a year later in 1958 that he got the job because graduating from high school was priority in 1957. The family never missed a check; he knew the money was going to help pay for his siblings to finish high school and attend college. Tommy eventually went to college in 1959 by getting a job with Mississippi Vocational College (now called Mississippi Valley State University-MVSU) driving the school bus picking up students in Bolivar and Sunflower County. That was one of the ways he was able to pay his way through college, as well as it served as his transportation to and from the College. The other way was when Dean Isaac offered him a work study job to help build other buildings on campus (i.e., the auditorium, and campus maintenance) because he had seen his work as a student. As a requirement for graduation, Tommy had to build something to show he had mastered his trade. But the requirement was reconsidered when he drove his instructor to Shaw and showed him the house he built along with the blueprint he had drawn. When asked how, Tommy told him ``My Dad is a master carpenter and he taught me this stuff a long time ago.'' That house was for his best friend, Roy Magee and the family still lives there. In fact, Tommy still has the blueprints he drew. Tommy was a part of the team that built the first house on campus for the first president of Mississippi Valley State University, Dr. James H. White. The house now serves as the National Alumni House on the campus of the University. Tommy did not graduate until 1964 because of split session with his degree in Industrial Arts. He became the Industrial Art instructor for the Shaw School District, working for 30 years until his retirement. All of Mr. Gunns' children went to college and became very successful in their own rights with good jobs, homes, cars, money to send their children to college, and blessed to see retirement, etc. But Benam and Tommy stood out as the oldest daughter and son after their father's death. As for Mr. Gunns master carpentry skills, his son, Tommy and grandson, Undra Gunns (son of Torries and Dorothy Washington-Gunns) acquired that skill. So, he lives on in many ways and in many accomplishments without even trying to do so, he left a legacy. One more mention on how did he do it? Mr. Gunns received only a 2nd grade education. He never learned to read or write. But, his stepfather, ``Mr. Brick'' taught him how to count. And passed that on to his children by teaching them how to add, subtract, multiply, and divide. That's all he could do in terms of academics. It was his faith in God, his common sense, determination, and ability to count money and perform mathematical operations in his head, and serve on the school board, which sparked change in education in Shaw. All those things got him through life and he was destined to accomplish the things he did. ``If you don't walk in purpose, you won't walk in destiny. Find your purpose in life and walk it out'' (Quote by: Farrah Gray). Now, that's how he did it. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing the legacy of Tommy ``Mr. Nottie'' Gunns, Jr. from the Second Congressional District of Mississippi.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable American Soldier, Sergeant First Class Tony Roach, a resident of Shaw, Mississippi. Sergeant First Class Roach entered the Army Reserves on February 9, 1990, and completed Basic and Advanced Individual Training as an armor crewman at Fort Knox, Kentucky directly after graduating from Shaw High School. He was stationed at Fort Hood, Texas and Camp Shelby, Mississippi. His overseas assignment include Log Base Seitz in Iraq. SFC Roach was deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, OIF 2004-2005, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, and Camp Shelby in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, OEF 2006-2014. Most recently, he served eight years as an Observer Controller Team Leader at Camp Shelby in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. SFC Roach has served with overwhelming admiration at every level within a Tank Platoon to include: Tank Gunner, Tank Commander, Squad Leader and Platoon Sergeant. He has served as an Interim Observer Controller Team Leader, Battalion Operations Sergeant, and Observer Controller Group Leader. His military education includes 19K (Tanker) OSUT, 88M (Truck Driver), Primary Leadership Development Course, Basic Noncommissioned Officer Course, Advanced Noncommissioned Officer Course, Basic Instructor Course, Recruiting and Retention School, Driver Training Course, Mind Resistant AP Instructor Course. He furthered his civilian education at Coahoma Community College in Clarksdale, Mississippi where he graduated in 1999 with a technical certification in Barbering. His awards and decorations include: the Army Commendation Medal, Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal (3RD Award), National Defense Service Medal With Bronze Star (2ND Award), Iraqi campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal with Campaign Star, Global War On Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, and Armed Forces Reserve Medal with M Device (2nd Award). Sergeant First Class Roach has two daughters: Laliya and Brianna; and one son, Tony Cordale. Sergeant First Class Roach is the son of Freddy Bryant and Gloria Roach and has 6 siblings: Gloria, Dellia, Nicole, Lee, James, and Isaac. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing an amazing American Soldier.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Samuel Osunde, who is a remarkable Leader, Director and Public Servant. Dr. Samuel Osunde received his Ph.D. in Mass Communication from Howard University in Washington D.C. Dr. Osunde has more than 28 years of professional, academic and administrative experience. From 1986 to 1989 he served as the Special Assistant to the President for special projects at Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. While in Baton Rouge, Louisiana Dr. Osunde served as the Creative Director/Senior Copywriter for Partnership Advertising and Ampoule Advertising Companies. He has produced numerous copywriting for advertisements, publicity packets for release to television, radio, and newspapers, has created visualized concepts for product advertising and serves as advertising consultant to mass media companies throughout the United States, Europe and Africa. Dr. Osunde's research interests include ``The Role of Mass Media in Perception Influence,'' ``Media Effects Theory,'' ``Intercultural/ International Communication'' and ``Mass Communication Development''. His professional memberships include: Mississippi Communication Association, National Communication Association, Speech Communication Association and the American Communication Association. Dr. Osunde is the recipient of many academic and professional awards that include, President's Scholar, Chancellor's Scholar Teaching Fellow and the Certificate of Commendation for Outstanding Scholastic Achievement. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing an Outstanding Professor, Leader and Extraordinaire, Dr. Samuel O. Osunde, 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 appreciate the opportunity to speak on behalf of this bill, H.R. 579, a bill to designate the United States courthouse in Jackson, Mississippi, as the R. Jess Brown United States Courthouse. Mr. Speaker, Richard Jess Brown was born on September 12, 1912, in Coffeyville, Kansas. His parents, Ernestine and Joe Brown, were jazz musicians and performed in and managed a local theater. R. Jess Brown received a bachelor's of science in industrial arts from Illinois State Normal University and a master's of science in industrial education from Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana. After teaching at Alcorn State University, R. Jess Brown moved to Jackson, Mississippi, where he taught industrial arts at Lanier High School, the only Black high school in the city at the time. While teaching at Lanier, R. Jess Brown became an intervening plaintiff in a lawsuit that sought equal pay for Black teachers in Jackson. After teaching in Jackson, Jess attended Texas Southern University law school. Jess left the law school before receiving his juris doctorate but was able to return to Mississippi and pass the Mississippi Bar in 1953. Beginning his career in Vicksburg, Mississippi, R. Jess Brown confined his practice to cases involving divorces, deeds, land titles, and other practices that did not agitate White members of the bar. However, after the Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka ruling in 1954, Jess felt compelled to defend the civil rights of African Americans. In the fall of 1955, the conditions and hardships endured by Black lawyers in the courts led Mr. Brown and seven other Black attorneys to establish the Magnolia Bar Association. Mr. Speaker, R. Jess Brown is credited with filing the first civil suit on behalf of African Americans in the State of Mississippi. That lawsuit, on behalf of a Jefferson County minister, challenged laws that prevented Blacks from voting. Mr. Speaker, Jess Brown has an extensive record as a civil rights lawyer. His list of clients included Clyde Kennard, who was charged with and convicted of a fictitious crime while attempting to desegregate the University of Southern Mississippi; James H. Meredith, whose litigation ultimately led to the integration of the University of Mississippi; Dr. Gilbert Mason, who led the effort to end racial segregation on the beaches of Biloxi, Mississippi; and civil rights icons Medgar Wiley Evers and Dr. Aaron Henry. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Brown was admitted to practice law before all Mississippi court systems, the United States District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi, the United States District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi, the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit Court, and the United States Supreme Court. Mr. Brown also served on the executive board of the National Bar Association for approximately 15 years. On December 3, 1989, R. Jess Brown died of cancer in Jackson, Mississippi, at the age of 77. Mr. Speaker, R. Jess Brown is well deserving of this honor, and I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 579.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of legislation naming this facility after Ms. Juanita Millender-McDonald, a wonderful lady. She served this institution well up until her final moments. Most of us were not aware of the terminal illness she had. She served with grace, dignity, and honor, and our respect. She will be missed.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a courageous and remarkable veteran, Dr. Haskell S. Bingham. Dr. Bingham was a native son of Vicksburg, Mississippi, born to the late Rev. Judge R. Bingham, Sr. and Mrs. Julia E. Bingham. Dr. Bingham attended Vicksburg schools, Jackson State College, University of Denver, Peabody College/Vanderbilt University and served in the U.S. Army, and became a Korean War veteran. Dr. Bingham was a former teacher at Brinkley High School in Jackson, Mississippi. He also retired having served as former Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at Virginia State University, former Assistant to the President at St. Paul's College (Virginia) and former Dean of Admissions and Records at Jackson State University. Dr. Bingham was greatly respected and loved as the historian/ genealogist of the Bingham's of African descent in America. He identified over 2500 relatives in his historical research in South Africa and the United States. He also achieved recognition for his ancestors including the Freedom Fighter Gabriel of Gabriel's Rebellion in Virginia, from the National Parks Service, City of Richmond City Council, and former Governor Kaine of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Dr. Haskell S. Bingham for his time and dedication to serving our country.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a courageous and remarkable veteran, Mr. Hasting Bullock. Mr. Hasting Bullock was born on August 8, 1920 in Yazoo City to the late Elnora Young, and the late Thomas Bullock. They later moved to Pickens, Mississippi where he was reared. Mr. Hasting Bullock later met his wife of 70 years, the late Elmira Howard, and to this union they had 12 children. He joined the U.S. Army in 1942 and served as a 740 Air crafter for 3 years. He was stationed at New Ginning, and fought in World War II. After departing from the military he began his farming career from 1946-1983. He retired from his farming career and began to work as a local barber. He is now 94 years old and a widower still residing in Pickens, Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Hasting Bullock for his time and dedication to serving our country and others.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a courageous and remarkable veteran, Retired Airman First Class Lawrence David Friar. Lawrence Friar is a strong believer in the value of family land and property ownership. It is through this belief that prompted him to return to his native home in Lexington, Mississippi in 1972 from Compton, California where he was reared. He was born in Lexington, Mississippi April 20, 1940, but moved out West with his family not long after that. He returned to his home state to look after his families' land, because so many boundaries and lines were being moved and timber being cut from his property that he had to come home to watch over things for his other siblings. Born to the late Mack Friar and Lettie Wright Friar, Holmes County, Mississippi natives, there were four boys and six girls. He has been a faithful citizen of the Second Congressional District ever since his return in 1972. Protecting land is nothing new for Friar for he is a proud American Veteran who protected and served his country in the United States Air force from 1958 until 1962. He joined the military immediately after high school in Compton. ``When I joined the service, the Vietnamese Conflict has started, and it was still going on when I left the service.'' he said. Friar had temporary duty in the War Zone, in which they would leave Hawaii and go to the war and work the jets that needed repairing, and then they would return to Hawaii, where he was stationed. During his tour of duty in the U.S. Air force, Friar earned and retired with the rank of (E4) Airman First Class. The Retired Airman First Class Lawrence Friar says ``Most importantly, it taught me patience and how to get along with people.'' he said about his most memorable experience about serving in the U.S. Air force. Today, one will find this retired U.S. Air force veteran home in Lexington, Mississippi as a local leisurely farmer doing some gardening and planting; what people in the south call ``truck patches.'' He hopes to return to California one day to check on some siblings there, but for now he will remain with a watchful eye on his family's land. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Retired Airman First Class Lawrence David Friar for his time and dedication to serving our country and others.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a courageous and remarkable veteran, Mr. George Reed, Jr. Mr. Reed was born in Enid, Oklahoma in April of 1943. He is the only child of the late Mr. George Reed, Sr., who was a World War II Veteran, and Mrs. Estella Hunt Reed. Mr. Reed graduated from Gentry High School in 1962. In May of 1963, he did basic training in San Diego, California for the United States Navy. From 1964-1965, Mr. Reed did two tours in Vietnam on the USS Oriskany CVA-34. Then, he transferred to USS John Archibald Bole DD 755 and served the next four years on this ship. Two of the places he toured on this ship are Japan and Fort Malaysia. Mr. Reed served six years, and retired in 1969 as a Machinist Mate E5. He now serves as Post Adjutant at the American Legion Post #205, where they have 30 active members. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. George Reed, Jr. for his time and dedication to serving our country.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable business, Choppa Styles Barber Shop. Choppa Styles Barber Shop is owned by Ramirez Lee, who was born and raised in Leland, Mississippi. ``Choppa Styles'' is the name of his shop and is a new age term for the latest in music, fashion, and even hairstyles. After Lee graduated from barber school, he went to work for other barbershops, but knew that he wanted his own business. He was very particular and wanted to please his customers while giving them the advantage of his knowledge. Many people have the mistaken belief that men just walk into a barbershop, sit down and get a haircut. Lee doesn't have that attitude at all. Lee states that ``it's very important for a professional barber to look at the person's facial structure, the type of hair he might have as to whether it is thick or thinning, curly, straight, all those things. A good barber will then style that person's hair to compliment his facial structure.'' Lee said that he tries to influence his customers on the necessity of a healthy scalp. Lee also said that he hopes to include hair care products at his shop soon. Lee doesn't make appointments. All of his customers are walk-ins He welcomes new customers and invites them to stop by his shop. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Choppa Styles Barber Shop for its dedication to serving and giving back to the community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Aaron Shirley, a public health visionary and trailblazer in the medical profession, who dedicated his life to bringing medical services to underserved rural and urban communities in Mississippi. Not only was he great for his medical acumen and creativity in conceiving unique and innovative service delivery methods but also for his commitment to the cause of equality and civil rights. Born in Gluckstadt, MS, Dr. Shirley eventually moved with his family to Jackson, MS, where he graduated from Lanier High School. In 1955, Dr. Shirley graduated from Tougaloo College and then received a scholarship to attend Meharry Medical School in Nashville, TN. After he graduated from Meharry in 1959, he moved back to Mississippi to begin a general practice. During this time, he held on to a desire to practice pediatric medicine. In Mississippi, in 1960, this type of specialization seemed an impossibility. Still, Dr. Shirley forged ahead, gaining valuable experience practicing family medicine. In 1965, Dr. Shirley was invited into the pediatric residency program at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. There, he became the first Black pediatrician in Mississippi and the first Black resident trained at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. Dr. Shirley often related a story of being advised by one of his mentors to be prepared for white people to not want him to touch their kids. However, he quickly saw that this was never the case. He saw that when people are in need of medical attention or need help for their kids, the divides of race, color, or ideology simply evaporate. This realization made him understand that there are often bridges between individuals and communities, and from that point on, Dr. Shirley was consistently effective at building bridges across communities. With this knack for building bridges, and a brilliant mind that eventually led to him receiving a MacAuthur `Genius Award' Fellowship, Dr. Shirley embarked on a mission to help communities that had very little access to the medical care that they badly needed. In 1970, Dr. Shirley helped to establish the Jackson-Hinds Comprehensive Health Center which has since become the largest provider of primary health care services to the poor, uninsured and underserved population in central Mississippi. Additionally, he created a comprehensive school-based clinic addressing myriad community health issues including, drug abuse, mental health issues, and teen violence. Both the health center and the clinical program have become models for similar programs across the country. Dr. Shirley was a visionary. He saw solutions where some people had not even recognized that a problem existed. This was the case with the Jackson Medical Mall--a one stop shop for medical services and treatment. Where most people looked at the dilapidated Jackson Mall building and saw an eyesore, Dr. Shirley saw an opportunity, and in 1997, after much hard work to get stakeholders to buy into the idea, he helped establish the Jackson Medical Mall facility which has subsequently become one of America's most unique and important community health ventures. Dr. Shirley was committed to achieving quality outcomes and access to medical care. To that end, he looked to a medical system that seemed very effective in Iran--using community health workers in `health houses' to provide certain services, especially in rural places. He saw these health houses as a way of bridging the gap and providing a network, through the community health worker, to assure that the patient receives the best and most complete care. With this concept in mind, in 2010, he founded the HealthConnect program that helps prevent unnecessary emergency room visits by sending physicians and nurses directly into the homes of people in underserved communities. Aaron Shirley's legacy is well-established in this country. Dr. Shirley challenged the system to provide services to the less fortunate and became a tireless advocate for civil and human rights. He provided immeasurable guidance to me during my entire tenure in elective office, making me personally indebted to him. Dr. Shirley's impact on our community cannot be overstated and his accomplishments will benefit generations to come. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the life of Dr. Aaron Shirley, a visionary in American medicine, trailblazer for rural and underserved communities, and dedicated community leader.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Marion Barry, former Mayor of Washington, D.C., civil rights activist, community organizer, and Mississippi native. Born in Itta Bena, MS, on March 6, 1936, into a family of sharecroppers, Marion Barry immediately developed a work ethic that would be on display throughout his entire life. Even as a child growing up in the Mississippi Delta and later in Memphis, TN, he would work jobs as a paperboy, a waiter, and a bag boy at a grocery store to help his family in which he was the third of 10 children. Mr. Barry was always a great student and graduated with a degree in chemistry from Lemoyne-Owen College in Memphis and later received a master's degree in organic chemistry from Fisk University in Nashville, TN. While a graduate student at Fisk, Mr. Barry began what would be a long, storied life in public service and civil rights and helped found the campus's chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and, subsequently, helped to form and became the first National Chairman of the Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee (SNCC). As Chairman of SNCC, Mr. Barry led protests against racial segregation and discrimination, played a central role in many voter registration efforts, worked for the recognition of the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party and, despite the imminent danger involved, participated in the Freedom Rides organized by the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE), during the spring and summer of 1961, to help African- Americans in the South register to vote. In 1965, Mr. Barry came to D.C. to manage the local SNCC office. His advocacy for the people of Washington, D.C., started that year and would continue for nearly five decades. At the time Mr. Barry arrived in Washington, D.C., the city, though more than fifty percent Black, had few Black people in the ranks of the city's leadership and was being held under the thumb of often all-white congressional committees whose members' segregationist policies worked to prevent the black community from growing and thriving. In response to these conditions, Mr. Barry organized a ``Free D.C. Movement'' to advocate for D.C. Home Rule. Additionally, he often spoke against the policies and regulations put in place by the House Committee on the District of Columbia. In 1967, Mr. Barry resigned from his leadership position in the D.C., SNCC office and organized Pride, Inc.--a program that provided job training to uplift unemployed black men in Washington, D.C., and put them in a better position to be contributing members of the community. This program helped to build and develop a generation of Black men who may have otherwise been lost. Mr. Barry began his life in electoral politics in 1971, when he was elected to the Washington, D.C., school board. He would go on to serve as president of the board from 1972 to 1974. Mr. Barry would then go on to run for and be elected to an at-large seat on the D.C. City Council. Mr. Barry immediately became a leader on the council and helped to make real changes in the city including, getting a pay raise for the police department and defeating a gross-receipts tax on all city businesses. On March 9, 1977, Mr. Barry's personal will and courage were on display as he survived a gunshot wound he received when radical terrorists took siege of the City Council building during a hostage crisis. This event would only add to the reverence that was building for the man and his leadership abilities. In 1978, Mr. Barry was elected as the Mayor of Washington, D.C.--a post he would hold for 16 years between 1979 and 1999. Like me, Mr. Barry was one of the nearly 250 black mayors elected in the years following Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination and he became one of the many black elected leaders who rose from the struggles of the civil rights era. As mayor of Washington, D.C., Marion Barry was a powerhouse. He helped to create a local government that had barely existed before his arrival at City Hall. He was an advocate for diversity and inclusivity in City government hiring and appointed new and talented black leaders who, ultimately, proved the viability of self-governance by Black leaders in D.C. Mr. Barry instituted budget reforms that had not previously existed and was able to get the city's financial books in order. Additionally, Mr. Barry worked to build up downtown Washington, D.C., and turn it into a thriving business center that would eventually include the Verizon Center--home to the Washington Wizards and Washington Capitals. Moreover, Mr. Barry would raise the national and international profile of Washington, D.C., through his charismatic leadership and effective results. Though he moved the city forward and became an ally to the business community, the upper middle class and the professional working class alike, Marion Barry never forgot where he came from and the people who he was elected to serve. During his mayoralty, Mr. Barry continued to be a champion for the poor and downtrodden. He would often say that he could ``walk with kings but not lose the common touch.'' He helped steer millions of dollars into job training, employment, senior citizen, and social welfare programs. He also hired thousands of blue- collar workers into his administration to perform many of the jobs that helped build a thriving metropolis. Marion Barry was often referred to as ``Mayor for Life'' due in part to the unyielding support he received from his constituents. This support would often be tested in his political life. But even in the face of controversy that prevented him from seeking mayoral office in 1990 and eventually cost him his freedom, the people of D.C. trusted the leadership of Mr. Barry enough to re-elect him as D.C.'s Mayor in 1994 and subsequently to several more terms as a City Council member. Despite any of Mr. Barry's personal struggles and downfalls, he always kept one thing front and center in his mind--the well being and progression of the people of his beloved Washington, D.C., and the continued advancement of the black community. Until his dying day, Marion Barry carried the flag for his city. Marion Barry is a great example of what can happen when the system tries to choose our heroes for us and the people push back. While the media and various individuals worked as hard as they could to break him down and turn their collective backs on him, the people-- the ones who should be the most important to an elected official-- always welcomed him with open arms and received him even more warmly at the ballot box. This speaks volumes about the kind of man and the kind of leader Marion Barry was in Washington, D.C. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mayor Marion Barry, an undaunted activist, a community leader, a devoted public servant, and an unforgettable personality in American politics.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable Unsung Hero in Cleveland, Mississippi. Deborah Moore is the Associate Vice President of Community Relations at Delta Health Alliance. Mrs. Moore is assigned to the Indianola Promise Community where she provides administrative oversight and technical assistance to the community and organizations. Mrs. Moore worked one year as Project Manager IV at Delta Health Alliance before being promoted to Assistant Vice President and then to Associate Vice President. Mrs. Moore is a retiree from the state of Mississippi where she served 27 years in community and economic development. She spent the last 12 years of her career before coming to Delta Health Alliance at Delta State University's Center for Community and Economic Development in Cleveland, MS where she served as AmeriCorps director for two programs and then as director of the Center for Community and Economic Development the last five years. In her role as director of the Center for Community and Economic Development she assisted grass-root communities by empowering individuals, strengthening relationships and developing projects and programs to strengthen communities. Moore has extensive work with proposal writing having secured grants in excess of $15,000,000.00. Mrs. Moore is a member of several nonprofit boards, the Mississippi Center for Nonprofits, Cleveland Youth Council and Friends of the Environment. She currently serves as chair of the board for the Delta Fresh Foods Initiative. Moore serves in an advisory capacity for the Breast Education-Early Detection Project and the School-based Asthma Management Project at Delta State University. She also serves on the advisory board of the Excel By 5 program in Cleveland, MS and is a member of the Excel By 5 Coalition in Indianola, MS. Mrs. Moore works tirelessly in assisting: the elderly by running errands and doing other tasks they may desire; mentoring youth in diverse subject areas, so they can become an asset to society and work faithful with her husband's ministry to enhance congregants both spiritually and naturally. Mrs. Moore is a native of Cleveland, MS. She is a graduate of Delta State University with a B.B.A. degree and a M.B.A. degree. She has a certification as an Economic Development Finance Professional from the National Development Council (NDC) and received her PhD from the University of Southern Mississippi in Human Capital Development. Mrs. Moore is married to Dr. Billy Moore and they are the proud parents of two daughters, A'ndrea and Alicia. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mrs. Deborah Moore, an amazing Unsung Hero, for her dedication and service to mankind.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I would like to express my disappointment in Former Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour's offensive remarks regarding President Barack Obama. On a post-election conference call Barbour referred to President Obama's policies as ``tar baby.'' Although some may feel as though Barbour's remarks were a ``slip of the tongue'' or not offensive I, as an African American who has been the recipient of such references find such remarks reprehensible. As the former governor of a state such as Mississippi, Barbour's remarks were particularly degrading to those citizens who still remember being raised in an era of extreme racial criticism and hatred. Remarks such as these demonstrate a lack of racial sensitivity and foster a culture of prejudice. Mr. Speaker, I am highly offended by Barbour's comments and am offended by his insensitivity.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable public servant, Chief R.D. Simpson, a native of Jackson, Mississippi. Chief Simpson began his professional fire service career in 1993 with the City of Jackson Fire Department. Chief Simpson is well respected among firefighters in the City and the County for his professionalism and his ability to build strong relations between career firefighters and volunteers. In his 20 years of service, he has held the following positions: Firefighter, Lieutenant in the Emergency Service Division, Captain/ Emergency Medical Technician in the Emergency Service Division, Division Chief of Training, and Deputy Chief of the Emergency Service Division. Chief Simpson's educational background includes: a bachelor's degree in Political Science from Jackson State University and a master's degree in Occupational Safety and Health from Columbia Southern University. He has served as the Public Information Officer for the Jackson Fire Department for the past ten years. Chief Simpson resides in Jackson, Mississippi with his wife and their five children. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Chief R.D. Simpson for his dedication to serving others.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable Law Enforcement Officer, Mr. Tony Warren who is a lifelong resident of Mound Bayou, Mississippi. Mr. Warren is the son of the late William Hampton and the late Roberta Scott Warren. Mr. Warren entered law enforcement in 1990 as dispatcher for the City of Mound Bayou Police Department, and progressed to the positions of: Patrolman, Fire Chief, and his current position, Chief of Police. In his desire to expand his law enforcement career in 2007, he became a Correctional Field Officer, formerly known as a Parole Officer. As a Correctional Field Officer he assists former inmates with employment and housing opportunities, as well as addictive behavior placement for reintroduction into family and society. He regularly attends trainings to become aware of societal threats and what technical resolutions will be best for his day-to-day utilization. His love of law enforcement played a tremendous role in enhancing his love for his hometown and the need to protect and serve the community. Therefore, he has an open door policy for the residents and visitors. Chief Warren believes in communication between the police department and the people they serve to enhance the community. Mr. Warren has received numerous awards for his community and academic involvement with the Mound Bayou School District, AARP and other civic organizations. Mr. Warren is the youngest of eight siblings: Joyce, James, Ella, Odis, Ivory, Justeen, Veronica, and Kenny (deceased). Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing an amazing law enforcement officer for his dedication and service to his profession.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable veteran and community servant, Sergeant Milton Moore. Sergeant Moore has shown what can be done through hard work, setting goals, and aiming high. Sergeant Moore attended the Southern Regional Public Safety Institute in Long Beach, MS where he graduated with honors in 2000. He has completed training in: Clandestine Lab Investigations, Interview and Interrogation, Psychological Response to Active Shooter, and numerous other training courses, including, FEMA Incident Command System ICS200, ICS300, ICS400, and ICS700. Sergeant Milton Moore was hired with the City of Vicksburg in September 1999, as a firefighter. Deciding to follow the footsteps of his father, he became an employee of the Vicksburg Police Department in March 2000. Since that time, he has served as a Patrol Officer and Field Training Officer. Sergeant Moore was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in February 2010, scoring the highest of all candidates. Sergeant Moore is presently serving as a shift commander, where he currently has 9 officers under his command. Sergeant Moore was only 6 years old when his father joined the Vicksburg Police Department in 1975. Being around law enforcement all of his life, Sergeant Moore gained interest and respect for the duties of law enforcement. He knew that one day he would be able to wear the uniform and follow his father's footsteps and become an officer at the Vicksburg Police Department. Most of the traits and values that Sergeant Moore's father instilled in him he still practices daily. These attributes have helped Sergeant Moore become a model officer. February 19, 2014, Sergeant Milton Moore was honored as Officer of the Year by the Vicksburg Homecoming Benevolence Club. Being a recipient of this award, was a very humbling experience for Sergeant Moore. The award is named the ``Artel Moore Award'' after Sergeant Moore's deceased father. Sergeant Moore is a member of the Mississippi Homeland Security Task Force. Sergeant Moore is a veteran of the United States Armed Forces, serving in the U.S. Navy during the first Iraq war, Desert Storm, in 1991. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Sergeant Milton Moore for his dedication to serving our great Country and his community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an extraordinary community leader, Sheriff Oliver Parker, Jr. Sheriff Oliver Parker, Jr.'s life began in Duncan, MS. Sheriff Parker's mother, Mrs. Eddie Mae Parker, relocated to Hinchcliff, MS when he was ten years old. Sheriff Parker has resided in Quitman County for over 50 years. He is a graduate of Quitman County High School, Northwest Junior College, and the Mississippi Law Enforcement Training Academy. Parker completed the Mississippi Fire Investigation Training Academy as a requirement to become an Arson Investigator. He has one daughter, Fatina Parker Elliott; one granddaughter, Ashley-Faith Elliott; and one god-daughter, Detra Foster-Webb. Sheriff Parker has never been a stranger to hard work. He worked assiduously as a teenager to help his single-mother provide for his siblings. He has always had a desire to help others. He knew at an early age that he wanted to make a difference in the lives of the citizens of Quitman County. He pursued his dreams of helping the citizens of Quitman County by beginning a career in law enforcement. He served in the capacity of Deputy Sheriff for the Quitman County Sheriffs Department for 23 years. In 1999 he pursued his life-long dream of becoming the Sheriff of Quitman County. He was elected the first African-American Sheriff of Quitman County in November of 1999 and took the Oath of Office on December 9, 1999. He began his responsibilities as Sheriff of Quitman County on January 1, 2000. He has humbly served as Sheriff of Quitman County for 14 years. Since the beginning of his career as Sheriff of Quitman County, Sheriff Parker has instituted change in a variety of ways and made major contributions to the Quitman County Sheriffs Department. Jailed youth are offered a variety of programs designed to help them avoid returning to jail, as well as GED tutoring and testing. The elderly are assisted via the TRIAD Program. Sheriff Parker also initiated the employment of a full-time School Resource Officer at Madison Shannon Palmer High School. Under Sheriff Parker's leadership, a full-time detective and additional deputies and dispatchers were hired to assist with protecting and serving the citizens of Quitman County. Sheriff Parker's leadership has proven to be successful, as there were no unsolved murders in Quitman County until February 8, 2013. Sheriff Parker was present at a major milestone in the history of Quitman County which was the unveiling of the Mule Train sign at the city limits of Marks, Mississippi. Sheriff Parker possesses sound judgment; he has a great sense of accountability to the citizens of Quitman County; and he has an irreproachable professionalism. Sheriff Parker constantly seeks to establish relationships with the community that ensures continued trust and dependability. He is a God-fearing individual who seeks to serve the citizens of Quitman County with the utmost respect, dignity and honesty. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Sheriff Oliver Parker, Jr. for his dedication in being a respected community leader.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable enforcement officer and community servant, Under Sheriff Derrick Cubit. Derrick Cubit was born on a warm, sunny day of September 1, 1970 in Jackson, MS. As a youngster, he lived in Hazlehurst, Mississippi with his mother, Bobbie, his brother, Travis, and his late grandmother, Sarah. Derrick Cubit started school when he was six-years-old. He went to kindergarten through fifth grades at Hazlehurst Elementary, attended Hazlehurst Middle School, and graduated from Hazlehurst High School in 1988. He continued his education by attending Hinds Community College and Jackson State University where he majored in Criminal Justice. ``Life has been a means of friends and family who you can trust and who trusts you,'' says Mr. Cubit. He is pretty happy with what life brings and is accustomed to being around primarily adults, those who he received wisdom from. He met lots of people who invested and took time with him, and helped him to excel at most of his many and various hobbies. He did well in school because of this and fortunately, self- awareness was something that was learned later on in his years. Under Sheriff Cubit is a member of the Phi Beta Fraternity and of the Golden Square Lodge #88. There was always an interest in being a public servant, and he finally got an opportunity to work for the Copiah County Sheriff Department in October of 1997. He gives all thanks to the late Chief Deputy Joe L. Young, who gave him the opportunity to become a Deputy Sheriff with the Copiah County Sheriff Department. The trend was set by just meeting his potential, and taking on new challenges when someone brought it to his attention that he'd be perfect for the opportunity to work through the ranks at the Sheriff Department. He started out being a Deputy Sheriff, later was promoted to Juvenile Officer, after that he was promoted to Captain of Patrol, and now he serves as the Under Sheriff for the Copiah County Sheriff Department. Under Sheriff Cubit always assumed he'd never get married because he was a hard worker and thought that if he was tied down by the constraints of a wife and kids his work might hinder family growth. But then, he met the beautiful Ms. Semekia Jones in 1994 and they agreed to marry in 2001. He had one son before this union and now his new family role suits him as being a father and husband. He's driven to spur his son on to even greater accomplishments. Despite a lifetime of challenges and accomplishments Under Sheriff Cubit has held on to a quote by James Baldwin: ``The world is before you, and you need not take it or leave it as it was when you came in.'' His goal is to achieve what James Baldwin speaks about. Although he would question, ``How?'' he believes that the moment his son entered this world, he then knew that he had achieved it. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Under Sheriff Derrick Cubit for his dedication to serving our great Country and his community.