Bennie Thompson

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of Freedom Summer and the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 is one of the most important laws enacted in this country. President Lyndon B. Johnson on July 2, 1964, signed this critical piece of legislation into law. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 is recognized as one of the most significant turning points in America's political and social development. In a country divided by racism and bigotry, the Civil Rights Act of 1964 made discriminatory practices in education, public establishments and by employers, illegal. This historic legislation served as a catalyst for efforts towards equality across the country. In addition, the Civil Rights Act of 1964, along with Freedom Summer marked the climax of intensive voter-registration activities in the South that began in 1961. Prior to 1962, Mississippi faced significantly low levels of African- American voter registration. In fact, less than 7% of African-Americans were registered to vote within the state. In order to increase those numbers and register voters across the state Freedom Summer was born. While serving as an expanded voter registration project, Freedom Summer also helped to address the issue of the separate and unequal public education system. Efforts enacted during Freedom Summer established over 41 Freedom Schools attended by more than 3,000 young African- American students throughout the state. Despite major challenges, Freedom Summer left a positive legacy. The well-publicized voter registration drives brought national attention to the subject of black disenfranchisement, leading to the 1965 Voting Rights Act, federal legislation that among other things outlawed the tactics Southern states had used to prevent blacks from voting. Freedom Summer also instilled among African Americans a new consciousness and a new confidence in political action. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the 50th Anniversary of Freedom Summer and the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mrs. Roveta F. Simmons. Mrs. Simmons was born in Memphis, Tennessee. She is married to James A. Simmons of Chicago, IL. They have two children: Michael A. Walker, 37 and Jamal L. Walker, 24. In 1999 Mrs. Simmons received a Bachelor of Arts in Social Science from Virginia Wesleyan College in Norfolk, VA. That same year she received her Collegiate Professional License for the Commonwealth of Virginia Elementary Education, kindergarten through fifth grade. Mrs. Simmons is the Director of Little Rock Child Development Center. She is assigned to the 19th Force Support Squadron, Little Rock AFB, Arkansas. She is the director over the Infant Toddler Center. The Little Rock Child Development Centers both are NAEYC accredited programs. The CDC maximizes availability and affordability of child care to include weekly, hourly, surge and emergency care, offering early intervention and provides the highest quality childcare that meets the development needs of each child and enables military and Department of Defense (DoD) parents to fulfill their military missions. Mrs. Simmons began her Department of Defense career as a Palace Acquire Intern with the Department of the Air Force in June 2004. She completed her two year Child Development Specialist Internship at Randolph AFB, TX and was assigned to Keesler AFB, MS as the assistant director. After two years she was promoted to Director of Keesler Child Development Center. She has worked tirelessly to create a well oiled machine. The Keesler CDC turned a failing budget around--from a $70,000.00 loss to a $12,000.00 profit year to date. Mrs. Simmons also served on active duty for the United States Air Force for 21 years where she retired at the rank of MSgt. Her last assignment was the Superintendent, Wing Operations Center, 402 TFW Holloman AFB, NM. Among her many recognitions she has received the Exemplary Civilian Service Award, the Meritorious Service Medal, 1 Bronze Oak Leaf, Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit 3 Bronze Oak Leaf, Air Force Good Conduct Medal 1 Silver and 1 Bronze leaf. She has also received the National Defense Medal 1 Bronze, a Service Star, Air Force Overseas Long Tour, Air Force Longevity Ribbon 4 Bronze, and the NCO Professional Military Education Ribbon. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mrs. Roveta F. Simmons for her years of dedication and hard work.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mrs. Jacque Johannes who is retiring after 27 years as a Department of Defense civilian with the United States Air Force. She received an Associate of Arts in Education from Cloud County Community College in Concordia, Kansas, in 1975 and her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from Emporia State University, Emporia, Kansas in 1977. That same year, she married Don Johannes and began traveling the world and working for the DoD as the spouse of an active duty Air Force member. For her first jobs she worked as a substitute teacher in the Denver Public Schools system and then as a cashier for the base commissary. In 1979, she moved with her husband to Hellenikon Athens, Greece and worked as a substitute teacher for the DoD schools and eventually as a clerk for the Hellenikon AFB Child Development Center. In 1982, she moved again with her spouse to Grand Forks AFB in North Dakota where Jacque worked for the base commissary as a cashier. In 1984, she and her family moved to Little Rock, Arkansas and this is where she found her most rewarding career working with young children. In 1988, she began teaching preschool for the evening classes at the Little Rock AFB Child Development Center. The next year, she became a full time preschool teacher and taught three and four year olds in the Air Force Preschool. In 1997, she became the first USDA/Resource & Referral for the Family Child Care (FCC) Program. In 2000, Jacque was hired as the junior FCC Coordinator and during this time helped to win the provider of the year for 2004. In 2005, she took over the lead coordinator's position and with the help of her fellow Coordinator, Jill Lund, she was able to train and establish the first three National Family Child Care (NAFCC) Accredited FCC providers at Little Rock AFB. During her years as coordinator, Jacque's program was selected to be a test base for the Mildly Ill Program and the new AF Expanded Child Care Programs. In 2007, with the hard work and dedication of Jacque, the FCC Program won AETC FCC Program of the Year for the first time since the inception of the child care programs at Little Rock AFB. When the program was under the AETC Majcom, Jacque was asked by AETC staff to mentor new providers. She would also work closely with fellow coordinators from other bases to gain new ideas or find better ways to improve the FCC program at Little Rock. Jacque has a love of music and especially enjoys singing. She is a member of Park Hill Christian Church Chancel Choir and also performs solos for special music functions and serves as Chairman of the Trustees for PHCC as well as serving on the Church Cabinet and Church Board. She is also a member of the Arkansas Chorale Society (ACS) where she sings in the Messiah and their spring concerts. During these concerts she has provided various solos. Jacque previously served on the Board of Directors for the ACS and as a judge for the Arkansas Boys and Girls Club Youth of the Year in Little Rock. Jacque sat on the planning committees for the annual Spring Family Fun festivals and the 4th of July celebrations. She along with her providers would have a game/information booth at the Fun Festival each year. Jacque lives with her husband Don in Cabot, AR. Her children and grandchildren are the lights of her life. Jacque's sons, Josh and wife Jennifer along with their children Holt and Violet reside in Sherwood, and son Chris and wife Leah along with their children Aliden and Ava reside in North Little Rock. Her daughter Amanda and husband SSgt. Kevin Schroeder along with Amanda's daughter Aislinn Grubb are stationed in Geilenkirchen, Germany. Jacque also has a step- grandaughter, Sylvia Schroeder, who resides in Manhattan, KS. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mrs. Jacque Johannes for her years of dedication and hard work.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I have no more speakers, and if the gentleman from Pennsylvania has no more speakers, I am prepared to close.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. In closing, while I am supportive of advancing this legislation to the Senate in the hopes of moving the process forward to provide a multiyear authorization for the CFATS program, there is more work to be done. Should H.R. 4007 be approved today, I will work with my colleagues in the other body to work towards ensuring that the legislation provides adequate whistleblower protections for those risking their jobs to report violations of law or security vulnerabilities, ensures workers have a meaningful role in developing the security plans for their facilities, and promotes greater adoption of best practices and inherently safer and securer technologies among high-risk facilities. The bill before us today is a good start, but there is more work to be done. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from California (Mr. Waxman), the ranking member of the Committee on Energy and Commerce.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. I yield the gentlewoman an additional 1 minute.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 4007, the Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards Program Authorization and Accountability Act of 2014. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 4007 authorizes the Chemical Facility Anti- Terrorism Standards Program within the Department of Homeland Security. At the outset, I would acknowledge that, during consideration in committee, a somewhat inclusive approach was taken, and, as a result, a number of amendments offered by Democratic Members were accepted. It is regrettable that, now that H.R. 4007 is before us today, this same opportunity is not being afforded to my colleagues in the House. The decision of the Republican leadership to bring this measure up under suspension of the rules limits debate on the measure and effectively prevents any Member from offering an amendment to make further improvements to the bill. Despite my reservations about process, I am generally supportive of H.R. 4007, as it would give DHS and chemical facility owners and operators some measure of confidence about the program's future. Since coauthoring legislation in the 109th Congress to grant DHS authority to regulate the chemical sector for security, I have consistently supported efforts at enacting a comprehensive freestanding authorization bill. As those who have followed the CFATS program know, jurisdictional challenges have consistently complicated authorization efforts. As a result, renewal of the program has been at the mercy of the appropriations process since 2006. H.R. 4007 is the Committee on Homeland Security's latest effort at achieving the goal of enacting CFATS legislation. The most significant prior effort was back in the 111th Congress, when the House approved H.R. 2868, legislation that I introduced with then-Energy and Commerce Chairman Henry Waxman, after a year and a half of intense negotiations. That bill eliminated the regulatory exemptions on water and wastewater facilities that have been a major concern of every Secretary of Homeland Security, especially Secretary Michael Chertoff in the Bush administration. The bill under consideration today bears little resemblance to H.R. 2868, but, I suppose, reflects the political realities of the 113th Congress. I am disappointed that it does not directly tackle the water and wastewater exemptions that put communities and neighborhoods that are near these facilities at risk, though I note that the bill requires a security assessment of those exemptions, so that the next time Congress looks at reauthorizing CFATS, the debate will be better informed. I am pleased that, in response to the deadly April 2013 explosion at a plant in West, Texas, H.R. 4007 gives DHS now authority to compel action by facilities that, to date, have not participated in the program that DHS views as potentially high-risk facilities. I am also pleased that H.R. 4007 includes language authored by Representative Yvette Clarke to ensure the Department takes a commonsense approach to vetting transportation workers who service chemical facility shipping needs. That said, there are a couple of areas that should be addressed before this measure reaches the President's desk. Specifically, H.R. 4007 should provide adequate whistleblower protections for those risking their jobs to report violations of law or security vulnerabilities, ensure workers have a meaningful role in developing the security plans for their facilities, and promote greater adoption of best practices and inherently safer and securer technologies among high-risk facilities. The bill before us today is a good start, but there is more work to be done. With that, Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from New York, Ms. Yvette Clarke, the ranking member on the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Protection Subcommittee on the Homeland Security Committee.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 3488, the Preclearance Authorization Act of 2014. Earlier this year, the Department of Homeland Security decided to alter the focus of Customs and Border Protection's preclearance program from one aimed at passenger facilitation to one intended to enhance security--or, at least, that is what we were told when a bipartisan group of Members led by Representatives Meehan and DeFazio began asking hard questions about why a preclearance facility was being opened in Abu Dhabi, an airport at which no U.S. flag carriers operate. Since preclearance operations commenced in Abu Dhabi earlier this year, representatives from DHS, including Secretary Johnson, have repeatedly stated that they are looking to expand the program to other high-risk overseas airports. Enactment of H.R. 3488 would ensure that, before DHS entered into another preclearance agreement, thoughtful consideration is given to the potential homeland security benefits of such an expansion, as well as the potential impacts to CBP staff at domestic ports of entry. Importantly, the bill also requires DHS to report to Congress on the potential economic, competitive, and job- related impacts opening such a facility would have on United States air carriers. During committee consideration of the bill, an amendment that I offered was accepted that would require any passenger arriving in the U.S. who is determined to be a selectee to undergo security rescreening by the Transportation Security Administration before being permitted to board a domestic flight in the United States. This provision would ensure that any traveler that is determined to be potentially dangerous undergoes security screening on U.S. soil before being allowed to board a domestic flight. Finally, the bill prohibits the opening of a new preclearance facility unless at least one United States passenger carrier operates at the airport where preclearance operations would be established. This provision will ensure that we do not see a repeat of the circumstances surrounding the opening of the preclearance facility in Abu Dhabi, where a foreign airline was provided a significant competitive advantage over U.S. carriers. With that, Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on H.R. 3488, the Preclearance Authorization Act of 2014.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 4263, the Social Media Working Group Act. Since I arrived in Congress, I have seen the destruction caused by man-made and natural disasters. From the September 11th attacks--to Hurricane Katrina--to the mass shootings that have devastated communities across America, one truism that has repeatedly been identified is that early alerts and timely information saves lives. Toward that end, the Committee on Homeland Security has worked hard to support the Department's efforts to harness all means of communication to ensure that that public can take appropriate action before, during, and after disaster strikes. To date, Federal efforts have focused on the Emergency Alert System, Wireless Emergency Alerts, and the Integrated Public Alerts and Warning System. But, as we have seen during recent disasters, social media allows the government and private sector to disseminate useful information to hundreds of thousands of people. I support the innovative use of social media in disaster preparedness and response because it has the ability to make more people safer, faster. It can also help first responders work more quickly and more efficiently. That said, we must work to implement practices to ensure that social media is used appropriately and effectively, and that the information distributed is reliable. It is critical that information after a disaster must be accurate. There needs to be guidance and policies in place to ensure that widely- distributed disaster-related information is accurate, or to correct the information when it is not. I am hopeful that H.R. 4263 would provide a forum for government officials and the private sector to come together to address this and other challenges related to the use of social media during disasters and to share best practices. I congratulate Subcommittee Chairwoman Brooks and Ranking Member Payne, Jr. on their work to ensure that government officials and first responders take full advantage of the technology available to communicate with the public during a disaster.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my support for H.R. 4289, the ``Department of Homeland Security Interoperable Communications Act.'' One of the major lessons of the September 11th attacks was that operable and interoperable communications are imperative to an effective response. Simply put, when law enforcement and other first responders have interoperable communications during an incident or disaster, lives are saved. As a Nation, we have invested over $13 billion on interoperable communications. However, the goal of achieving interoperability continues to evade us--even at the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal agency that is in charge of driving efforts to achieve interoperability at the Federal, State, and local levels. In November 2012, the Office of the Inspector General reported that DHS' interoperable communications capability was deficient. For example, of the radios examined during the OIG's audit, only 20 percent of them were set up to use the common channel. The Inspector General recommended that stronger Departmental governance be established to ensure communications policies are fully implemented. At the time, DHS explicitly rejected the OIG recommendation that a stronger governing structure be established and, instead, insisted that its existing structures were sufficient. Nevertheless, the interoperability problem at DHS persists to this day. This past May, Inspector General John Roth appeared before the Committee on Homeland Security and said: ``I am frankly concerned that as we speak today a Secret Service agent in New York can't get on his radio and talk to a Federal Protective Service officer in New York or a CBP officer in El Paso can't talk to a Homeland Security Investigations Agent in the same city.'' H.R. 4289 would require the Department to undertake the planning and oversight necessary to ensure that achievement of interoperability within DHS. I would like to congratulate Subcommittee Ranking Member Payne, Jr. and Chairwoman Brooks for their commitment to addressing this critical issue. I wish them success in their efforts and urge my colleagues to support H.R. 4289.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the historically rich, rural town of Bolton, Mississippi. The beginnings of the Town of Bolton stemmed around one of history's most sought after resource and highly demanded man-made commodity: the modern railroad system. Prior to its incorporation in 1871, the area now known as Bolton was a deer path with most of its land dedicated to plantation owners. One of the plantation owners, Colonel Thomas Jefferson Bolton, was a well-known railroad builder and settled in the area prior to the Civil War. After posing a compromise with another prominent plantation owner in the area, a deal was reached and the Clinton/Vicksburg railroad companies constructed a railroad depot on Colonel Bolton's land; henceforth, naming the area and the station depot Bolton. Within a few decades of establishing the railroad depot, the Civil War began and Bolton became involved in one of the Union forces most critical battle. In 1863, during General Grant's march to Vicksburg, Champion's Hill (a small community on the outskirts of Bolton) was the scene of a decisive battle between the Union and Confederate forces. The defeat of Confederate troops paved the way for the resultant siege and fall of Vicksburg. Eight years after the defeat, the Town of Bolton was incorporated and had reached a population of just under 800. The Town of Bolton has withstood many changes, both good and bad. In 1878, many residents succumbed to a yellow fever epidemic. Economically, however, the town was booming with businesses that lined the main thoroughfare between Vicksburg and Jackson. Farming was the main occupation for many in the town as much of the area had acres upon acres and rich farmland. In 1903, the constructed an artesian well, measuring 1,638 feet in depth. This well subsequently provided the townspeople with approximately two million gallons of water at the lowest price possible for the time period. In 1908, the town built and equipped a modern light plant. Two cotton gins processed numerous bales of cotton, aiding in the economic stability of the town. With the construction of the interstate highway system, much of the continuous traffic seen passing through Bolton quickly diminished, much to the delight of the residents of Bolton. Once the new bypass highway was constructed, business plummeted to include only the local residents and the occasional traveler. A shift in demographics also began, growing minority than in previous decades past. Today, the town's population is approximately 567, with mostly 75% of the residents being African American. There are currently symbols from the town's early beginnings still existing, such as the Gaddis and McLaurin Feed and Seed Store, the Lummus cotton gin, and original artesian well, all of which are monumental landmarks that have stood through the multiple changes and are a testament of the resolve of the citizens of Bolton. In addition to old landmarks, new ones have also emerged, such as the town's City Hall, multiple institutions of worship, a veterinarian, library, medical clinic, and a number of small businesses, primarily owned and operated by African Americans. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the Town of Bolton as a resilient, historically rich rural town that has remained committed to maintaining its close-knit community ties within and outside its city limits by staying true to its roots in agriculture and local owned businesses.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Town of Jonestown, Mississippi. The Town of Jonestown, Mississippi elected its first black Mayor, James A. Shanks, in June 1973. During these times, the struggle for freedom was very high, especially in the South. Mayor Shanks took advantage of available opportunities from federal, state and local resources. He partnered with organizations like the National Conference of Black Mayors and Mississippi Conference of Black Mayors. Additionally, Aaron E. Henry and other civil rights activists provided valuable assistance to Jonestown. Mayor Shanks and the Board of Aldermen, enhanced the community through housing, water and sewer projects, recreational facilities, and to improve the lives of the citizens. Mayor Shanks served a total of 12 non-consecutive years as mayor. In June 1980 Jimmy Wilkins was elected Mayor and continued moving Jonestown forward through excellent programs made by his predecessor. A modern fire station, a new fire truck and water and sewer projects were completed, upgraded housing complexes and new single family housing during Mayor Wilkins' tenure. Mayor Wilkins served eight nonconsecutive years (1981-1985 and 1993-1997). In 1989, Bobbie Walker became, the first female elected Mayor of Jonestown. In addition to ongoing projects, Mayor Walker increased community development by utilizing college volunteers, working with Habitat for Humanity and the Sisters of the Holy Name, whose members reside in Jonestown. They provide a cadre of services to citizens through education, medical contact, and recreation. In June 1997, Joe W. Phillips was elected Mayor of Jonestown. He emphasized a sense of community and urged the people of Jonestown to be proud of their community. Mayor Phillips continued to enhance the Town of Jonestown during his two non-consecutive terms in office. Patrick Leon Campbell was the youngest black Mayor elected to office in Jonestown and the State of Mississippi at age 28 in 2001. He was instrumental in numerous revitalization projects via grants such as the Mississippi Historic Preservation Grant, Small Town Limited Municipality Grant, Planning Grant, Water & Sewer Grant, Public Safety Grant, Home Grant, and others. Mayor Campbell initiated the Jonestown High School scholarship fund, and reinstated the Annual Jonestown Day Celebration which brings many former citizens and tourists to town. In June of 2013 Mayor Campbell was re-elected Mayor of Jonestown and with eagerness sought out numerous economic development opportunities. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing an amazing Town for their dedication to their community and change.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable public servant, Pastor Horace Buckley a native Jacksonian. Reverend Buckley is a graduate of Lanier High School and Mississippi Valley State University, where he received the Bachelor of Science Degree. He received the Master of Education Degree in Counseling from Tuskegee Institute in Tuskegee, Alabama. Reverend Buckley received the Doctorate of Divinity Degree (Honoris, Causa) from Natchez College and the Mississippi Baptist Seminary, May 2003 and June 2003 respectively. He is a former classroom teacher, having both interned and taught at Coleman High School in Greenville, Mississippi. In the Jackson Public Schools, he has worked as a high school counselor, a volunteer track coach and a middle school assistant principal. He is a recipient of the Jackson Association of Educator's ``Friend of Education'' Award and numerous other citations and awards. He is a Hall of Fame Inductee in track and field, both at his Alma Mater and in the Southwestern Athletic Conference. He served for 16 years in the Mississippi House of Representatives. Reverend Buckley is a man of God who holds to his convictions and walks by faith and not by sight. He received the call to serve as pastor of Cade Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in 1969 and has transformed a two Sunday a month worship service to full-time worship services. His dedicated and extraordinary leadership resulted in the retirement of mortgage in 1973 and 1991. In 1980, the church held its Centennial Celebration Service. On April 18, 1993 the church broke ground on its $1.2 million Family Life Center which houses an array of ministries and serves the community where the church is located and where as a boy Horace Buckley spent his formative years growing up. Reverend Buckley is married to the former Myra Beamon. They are the proud parents of four adult children: Dr. Horace A. Buckley, Carol LeJune Buckley, Dr. Cedric Buckley and Reverend Reginald M. Buckley and currently are grandparents to eight grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Reverend Horace L. Buckley for his dedication to serving others.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a group of women who has shown what can be done through hard work, dedication and a desire to serve their community, Vicksburg Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. The Vicksburg Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. has served the Warren County community and the State of Mississippi through informational meetings, social and civic engagement. The idea of an alumnae chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., in Vicksburg, Mississippi, was realized in February 1976 when Maggie Walker and Gloria Hebron discussed the possibility of becoming active in a nearby alumnae chapter. While developing a list of potential members to accompany them, they asked themselves, ``Why join another Chapter when there are at least 15 to 20 inactive members in our city?'' With this in mind, they contacted National Headquarters, requested an application for a charter, and sent out a call for inactive Deltas to come forward to serve our city and local communities. The Vicksburg Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., was chartered by 14 of the 18 Deltas who came forth when on Saturday evening, November 6, 1976, then Southern Regional Director and future 19th National President Yvonne Kennedy installed them into the Vicksburg Alumnae Chapter. This event took place at the Holiday Inn, on Clay Street, in Vicksburg, Mississippi. The Vicksburg Alumnae Chapter boasts 83 members for the 2013-2014 sororal year. All are registered voters and hold a minimum of a bachelor's degree. Vicksburg Alumnae Chapter members actively participate in Vicksburg and surrounding communities through annual blood drives; walk-a-thons; HIV/AIDS awareness programs; Habitat for Humanity; refurbished and maintain The Delta Room at Mountain of Faith Ministries Women's Shelter; youth educational scholarships, mentoring, and ACT workshops; financial management workshops; cultural awareness programs, including Jabberwock; educational forums; and meet the candidates political awareness forums. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the Vicksburg Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. 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 acknowledge the historically rich city of Lexington, Mississippi. Lexington is a city in Holmes County, Mississippi. The population was 2,025 as of the 2000 census. It was named in honor of Lexington, Massachusetts. Like much of the state, Holmes County suffered during and after the Civil War. The City of Lexington is served by the Holmes County School District. It is also served by a private school called Central Holmes Christian School (formerly Central Holmes Academy). The City of Lexington also has some rich African-American History. It is the root for the Church of God in Christ (COGIC) (formerly called the Church of God when it got its Lexington beginning) by founder Bishop Charles Harrison Mason. The City of Lexington can also boast as having the first black- elected school superintendent in the State of Mississippi--Elder William Dean, who is now pastor of the St. Paul Church of God in Christ here in Lexington. The church is situated next to the beautiful campus of Saints College (now closed to students) but is used for multiple purposes, especially its church-like edifice commonly known as ``Holy Hill.'' Saints College was founded by an African-American, Dr. Arenia Mallory as Saints Industrial and Literary School. The historically black school was renamed and is currently called Saints Academy. Dr. Mallory served as president of the school from 1926 until her death in 1983. It is run under the Church of God in Christ. Dr. Mallory was an active member of the COGIC church and participated in the Women's Department and was the leader in the national church. She also served as the Vice President of the National Council of Negro Women from 1953-1957. Lexington is also the home of the Dr. Arenia C. Mallory Community Health Center, Inc. (Mallory CHC) founded by Dr. Martha Davis (now deceased). Its mission is to provide high quality, customer oriented and cost effective healthcare services in a safe and accessible environment to all persons of Holmes, Carroll, Madison, Leflore counties and surrounding communities. Its motto is ``Enter a Patient, Leave a Friend.'' (See more about the clinic at http:// www.mallorychc.org/) The City of Lexington is also the home of the Community Students Learning Center (CSLC) founded by longtime African-American natives Leslie and Beulah Greer: ``Our Mission for the Community Students Learning Center is to promote community and educational change, by providing state-of-the-art leadership development and personal improvement opportunities for youth, adults, and seniors.'' Its motto is ``In Relentless Pursuit of Education and Knowledge. (See more about CSLC at: http://www.communitystudentlearning.org/) The City of Lexington was at the heart of the Civil Rights Movement in Holmes County, Mississippi. Brave men and women, black and white, protested, challenged and worked hard to bring about racial harmony. While some success in that regard was made, the city and County both still could currently use more racial reconciliation, according to some of the residents. In addition to numerous historical firsts, today, the City of Lexington also boasts first ever Black Mayor of Lexington, Mississippi--the Honorable Mayor Clint Cobbins, who is currently leading his community toward progress. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the City of Lexington as a resilient, historically rich rural town that has maintained its community ties inside and outside its city limits by staying true to its roots in agriculture and local owned businesses.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the City of Canton, Mississippi. Madison County, the 23rd county in Mississippi, was named for the fourth President, James Madison, and was created in 1828 out of Yazoo and Hinds Counties. It incorporates lands between the Pearl and Big Black Rivers where General Andrew Jackson met with the Choctaw Chieftain, Pushmataha. That meeting resulted in the 1820 Treaty of Doak's Stand. This area attracted large numbers of settlers from Virginia and the Carolinas who came to farm the lush, rolling hills, and fertile soil. In 1833, the Madison County Board of Police (a governing body similar to today's supervisors) appointed surveyor John B. Peyton to select a geographical center for a new county seat and to lay it out in blocks. In 1834, 40 acres of land belonging to Killis and Margaret Walton were deeded to the county for $100. The land was divided into square parcels with the plot nearest the center reserved for the public square. In 1836, the town was legally incorporated and boasted a population of 400. The first recorded ordinance made it a misdemeanor to gallop horse, mare, or mule on any street or alley. By 1838, Canton boasted two banks, two hotels, ten dry goods stores, a drug store, three groceries, a bakery, a tin shop, three tailor shops, and two watchmakers. The public buildings were a courthouse, jail, church, and a female academy. The town enjoyed notoriety for having as visitors the celebrated original Siamese twins, Chang and Eng, who ordered two custom suits from Perlinsky's Tailor Shop. There are two stories concerning the naming of Canton, and both attribute the name to Chinese origin. One states that Canton, Mississippi is the exact opposite side of the world as Canton, China, and was thus named. The other story states that the daughter of a Chinese family died in the area and the sympathetic community named the town for the family. There is really no more proof for one over the other, it's just which one you wish to believe. The very center and glory of our town is the beautiful Greek Revival Courthouse. Members of the local Masonic Order laid the cornerstone to the Courthouse in July 1855. The Board of Police paid $26,428 for it, as well as $65 per month to a commissioner to supervise proper construction--a magnificent sum at that time. The brick used were salvaged from the old Courthouse that had been condemned in 1840 because of the deterioration of the mortar. The new Courthouse was the scene of a huge Fourth of July celebration in 1857, but was not legally accepted until 1858. The beautiful iron fence was added later at a cost of $5,250. The large dome (twenty feet in diameter and thirty feet high) has twice been threatened with removal for security reasons. The first time was during original construction in 1856, and the second time was during remodeling in 1925. Both times the women of the town were successful in protecting it by insisting that ``beauty prevail over reason.'' The Courthouse has also served as a gathering place to welcome the railroad, send soldiers off to war, as a Court of Justice and the Seat of county offices, a polling place, an early library, a theater, and a hospital during the yellow fever epidemic. The happenings within the Courthouse walls have reflected the humorous, chivalrous, hardheaded, hospitable personalities who have given the South its distinctive character. During reconstruction, there was so much ballot box stuffing and tensions that when Election Day threatened to become bloody, a group of officials dispersed a gathering crowd by climbing into the dome and shooting down rocks with slingshots. The legal chambers within the Courthouse have witnessed many fiery trials, several of which resulted in duels between lawyers. When dueling had been outlawed in the state, Judge Calhoun and Judge Bowers, respecting the law, traveled together to Vicksburg and crossed the river into Louisiana to settle a court quarrel with pistols. Neither man was injured; it was simply a matter of honor. In 1994-1995 a new Courthouse was built one block north of the Square and the beautiful old Courthouse underwent a $2,000,000 renovation. The 1855 cornerstone was opened and re-laid by the Masonic Order. The first floor is currently home to the Madison County Economic Development Authority, and the old courtroom, on the second floor, is currently not in use. In 1982, the Canton Courthouse Square District was officially entered into the National Register of Historic Places and declared one of three best examples in the State of Mississippi. The Courthouse Square, still the focus of exciting activities, is the scene twice yearly of the nationally famous Canton Flea Market Arts & Crafts Show. The Market attracts up to 100,000 visitors annually from across the United States and beyond. It is estimated that over $20,000,000 in public and private funding has been invested in the Canton Square District, including the new and old Courthouses. In recent years, the beauty, uniqueness, and preservation efforts of our Courthouse Square and Historic District, with its beautiful homes, have attracted the attention of Hollywood. In addition to the five major films, many advertising agencies have chosen Canton as the location for commercial and corporate shoots, and PBS again chose the town for a segment of a six hour blues documentary on blues great Skip James to air in 2003. With the site of the Nissan Automotive Plant located one mile south of the city, proposed plans for the Mississippi Film Complex, and the continued efforts toward preservation by the community, Canton's future is well-assured. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the City of Canton, Mississippi.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the City of Jackson, which was founded in 1821, at the site of a trading post situated on a ``high handsome bluff'' on the west bank of the Pearl River. Jackson's history tells that the trading post was operated by a French-Canadian trader named Louis LeFleur, and the town originally was called LeFleur's Bluff. The Mississippi state legislature wanted the seat of government moved out of the Natchez area and into a more central location. It commissioned three men to locate an ideal place for a town that could become the state capital. After surveying areas north and east of Jackson, Thomas Hinds, James Patton, and William Lattimore proceeded southwest along the Pearl River until they came to LeFleur's Bluff in Hinds County. Their report to the General Assembly was that this location had ``beautiful and healthful surroundings, good water, abundant timber, navigable waters, and nearness to the Natchez Trace.'' A legislative act dated November 28, 1821 authorized the location to be the permanent seat of government for the state and that it would be named Jackson--in honor of Major General Andrew Jackson who would later become the seventh president of the United States. The building of a new state house had top priority, and a $3,500 contract was awarded to build Mississippi's first capitol: a two-story brick structure that was 40 feet by 30 feet. Shortly after the adoption of the Constitution of 1832, which ensured Jackson would be the permanent capital, the Mississippi legislature authorized the construction of a new and much larger house of government. This magnificent example of Greek Revival architecture remained the seat of state government until 1903. It lay dormant for several years, and then served as state offices until the late 1950s and as the state historical museum until 2005. Surviving extensive damage from Hurricane Katrina in 2005, the Old Capitol was lovingly restored and opened to the public as a state house museum in 2009. A third capitol building, referred to as the ``New Capitol,'' was completed in 1903. This magnificent structure, patterned after the National Capitol, is a major tourist attraction today, as well as the focus of Mississippi state government activities. Two other buildings are worthy of note in Mississippi history. The Governor's Mansion, authorized in 1839 and completed in 1842, is the second oldest residence of its type in the nation; it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Jackson's City Hall, built in 1846 for less than $8,000, is still the working seat of municipal government after more than 140 years. The massively-columned, three- story building and the gardens that surround it are two of the most photographed locations in the city. Jackson's growth in the 1800s was slow and sometimes painful. During the Civil War, the town was ravaged and burned three times by Union troops under the command of General William Tecumseh Sherman. Surprisingly, the City Hall was spared the torch. It was rumored that Sherman bypassed the building because it housed a Masonic Lodge and that the Union leader was a Mason. More likely, its use as a hospital was the reason the building was not burned. Although less than 8,000 people lived in the Jackson area at the turn of the century, its population began accelerating rapidly after 1900, and it is now one of the dynamic growth areas of the Sunbelt. In 1990, the population of the Metropolitan area rose to 395,396. It is a major distribution center with a prime location equal distance between Memphis and New Orleans, north-south, and between Dallas and Atlanta, east-west. As a major distribution center, efficient transportation facilities are a must. Eight major air carriers--American Eagle, Continental, Delta, Northwest Airlines, US Airways Express, and Southwest Airlines-- provide service in the Jackson International Airport and Hawkins Field. Amtrak provides daily passenger service to Chicago and New Orleans. The Illinois Central Gulf Railroad and scores of major truck lines provide freight service to all parts of the nation. A new, state-of-the-art convention center, the Jackson Convention Complex, opened in January 2009, in downtown Jackson, the beating heart of this vibrant, modern city. JCC offers conferencing technology, a 380-seat theatre, and more than 110,000 square feet of prime meeting and exhibit space. The complex is near Jackson's arts district, hotels, entertainment and restaurants. Jackson boasts two regional shopping malls, numerous multi-store centers, and a wide array of antiques, gift stands and craft shops. Eleven hospitals, including the nationally renowned University of Mississippi Medical Center, provide diagnoses and treatments for thousands of patients in the region. Every major church denomination is represented in the city, and there are more than 400 houses of worship scattered throughout the 105 square miles of community. An excellent public school system is an integral part of the area, and one university and six colleges and junior colleges are located within 15 miles of Jackson's center. Residents of the City with Soul are extremely proud of their Southern hospitality and lifestyle. Community support is strong for a symphony orchestra, an opera, ballet companies, professional theater groups, and a beautiful new art museum. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the City of Jackson, Mississippi.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable student, Ms. Shalaria Jackson. Ms. Jackson is a senior at Humphreys County High School. Throughout her years in school, she has been a part of many leadership organizations, such as: TATU, SADD, Sister of Sophistication, and Senior Select. Upon graduation, she plans to attend Mississippi State University to major in Biochemistry to one day become a Medical Examiner. Being a part of senior select gave her the opportunity to experience the work force; never did she think that she would have such a great effect on her coworker's lives. She has learned the basics of becoming and working as a Chancery Clerk assistant at the Humphreys County Court House. She also learned the patience it takes to work well with others in a work setting environment. What she learned at work, she applied it to school and vice versa. She helped with the paperwork, greeted the patients and staff with such great hospitality, operated the telephones and also helped other coworkers when her tasks were completed. It was not an easy job for her to juggle school and work, but she kept the faith and pushed forward. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ms. Shalaria Jackson for her dedication to serving others and giving back to the community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. I appreciate the gentleman yielding. I also have concerns, Mr. Speaker, about the bill's view of the future of security clearance investigations and adjudications and the degree to which it sets the stage for computers and algorithms to replace humans in the process. Specifically, it direct the DNI to conduct a cost-benefit analysis on reducing or eliminating the manual process for security clearance investigations and adjudications. The guiding principle in the adjudication process is the concept of the whole person, where information is brought to bear to give a picture of an individual. The prospect that we would empower a computer to render judgment of a person's integrity, character, and loyalty to our Nation is troubling. In the coming weeks, I will be introducing a comprehensive security clearance reform bill that, among other things, addresses known weaknesses in the current system, establishes expectations for continuous evaluation programs, and demands proper performance from investigative service providers. It also would greatly expand the resources and responsibilities of the Public Interest Declassification Board. A well-resourced and robust board is essential to increasing accountability of the intelligence community. I am pleased that the underlying bill will renew the authorization of the board. Before I yield back, Mr. Speaker, I would note that, while I am pleased that the bill authorizes intelligence operations within DHS, I am disturbed that, in advance of today's vote, members of the Homeland Security Committee staff were not granted access to the classified annex of this legislation, as it is relevant to the committee's oversight jurisdiction. I would hope that, as this bill moves through the legislative process, the stovepipes that exist within this Chamber that hinder critical information-sharing and oversight can be overcome for the benefit of the American people.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to this rule that allows for consideration of H.R. 4681, the Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Years 2014 and 2015. I am troubled that just 11 amendments were allowed under the rule and many solid amendments that would enhance oversight and transparency were blocked, particularly an amendment by Representative Gabbard to expand the authority and oversight of the intelligence community by the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board. With respect to the underlying bill, I would like to discuss a number of provisions that deserve to be highlighted. The bill sets the stage for potentially significant reforms to government contract employees' ability to access classified information that warrant thoughtful consideration by the House and further clarification. Specifically, H.R. 4681 directs the Director of National Intelligence to ensure that elements of the intelligence community engage in continuous evaluation of its employees to detect behaviors that may result in unauthorized disclosures. The bill also directs a cost-benefit analysis of replacing the standard periodic reinvestigation process with automated continuous evaluation programs. While I agree that there are weaknesses in the current security clearance process that warrant reform, it is important that, before wholesale changes are made, Congress expresses its expectations about the scope of such programs, establishes metrics for evaluating their efficacy, and ensures that due process protections for impacted individuals are available. We have an obligation to 5.2 million Americans whose livelihoods depend on maintaining their security clearances to ensure that agencies that establish these programs do so in a manner that guards against abuses, including targeting and retaliation by supervisors, as well as improper or excessive invasions of privacy. The urge to adopt continuous evaluation in response to high-profile incidents involving individuals with access to classified information who violated the terms of their oath is understandable. However, the adoption of continuous evaluation does not absolve the intelligence community of its obligations to bolster the protection of its classified holdings. Regrettably, Mr. Speaker, H.R. 4681 may send the wrong message to agencies, as it does not include language to direct agencies to raise the bar on access controls, thereby giving the impression that our concern is principally about employees' actions and behaviors.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise in reluctant opposition to H.R. 3361, the USA FREEDOM Act, which I cosponsored at introduction. I am troubled by the changes that were made to the bill behind closed doors that stripped key protections and opened the door to bulk collection. The Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board found the NSA's bulk collection of metadata to be illegal and called for it to be stopped. The legislation before us today includes language that raises the specter of the programs continuing in some limited form. This is not what the law or the American people demand. I had intended to support the USA FREEDOM Act, which at introduction would have brought an end to the NSA's bulk metadata program, however, changes that were made to the measure, outside of the committee process, behind closed doors, at the insistence of the NSA undercut the bill. In its current form, the ban on bulk collection is watered down and potentially exploitable by proponents of these programs. In the original bill, the phrase ``specific selection term'' was narrowly- defined as ``a term used to uniquely describe a person, entity or account.'' In the version before us today, that definition was significantly re-written to allow the list of potential selection terms to be so open-ended as to encompass whole area codes or ZIP codes. In effect, bulk collection could continue under this definition. I am also troubled that H.R. 3361 no longer includes language to establish an independent public advocate. Such a position is essential to give voice to ordinary Americans in the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court (FISC), which sets the legal parameters for NSA surveillance. The absence of such a position means that the FISC will continue to hear only from the government. There would be no one to stand up before the court and challenge the government's legal positions on what surveillance is permissible and represent the American public, whose data is being collected. The arguments for ending the NSA's bulk metadata programs are strong one. Since it came to light last year that the NSA had assembled a database that includes calls made by nearly every American since 2007, many of us have asked tough questions about whether it was constitutional or even effective as a counterterrorism tool. A January 2014 Pew Research poll found that 70 percent of Americans believe they should not have to give up their privacy in order to be safe from terrorism with a majority expressing disapproval of the NSA surveillance program outright. The record on the effectiveness of these programs is scant. Before his recent retirement, NSA Director General Keith Alexander testified before Congress that these bulk collection programs foiled ``one or perhaps two'' terrorist plots against the United States but provided no further detail. The Director of National Intelligence, James Clapper, has stated that the number of prevented plots is not an appropriate metric to measure whether the programs are necessary or useful. I had hoped we could come together and act on the recommendations of the independent Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board (PCLOB) and end what the Board determined to be illegal programs. Unfortunately, what we have before us does not bring about the changes in the law that would be necessary. I appreciate that some of my colleagues will vote for this measure to move the ball forward and get the issue before the Senate. There's certainly a case to be made for such an approach but given that the proponents of these programs have repeatedly exploited ambiguities in the law to advance their own ambitions, I cannot stand by and let the measure pass, in its current form. For these reasons, I reluctantly oppose H.R. 3361.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable veteran, the late Mose ``Bilbo'' Allen, Sr. Mr. Allen has shown what can be done through hard work, setting goals, and aiming high. Mose ``Bilbo'' Allen, Sr. was born August 27, 1922, in Murphy, Mississippi, to the late Sarah and Richard Allen. He was a humble and caring man who was always in good spirit. He accepted Christ on July 1, 2013 at the Goodwill M.B. Church. Mr. Allen was a veteran of World War II from December 1942 until January 1946, where he earned several medals, including the ATO Medal, APTO Medal, Philippine LIB Ribbon with two bronze stars, and the World War II Victory Medal. He met and married Ruby Allen on December 25, 1946, in Rolling Fork, Mississippi and to that union, 13 children were born and he loved them with all his soul. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the late Mr. Mose ``Bilbo'' Allen, Sr. 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 Mr. Tommie Mabry, a native of Jackson, Mississippi. Mr. Mabry has four brothers and one sister, and he's the first person in his family to finish high school. Mr. Mabry graduated from Bailey Magnet High School and went on to attend Missouri State University. While there he played on the school's basketball team as a small forward. He also attended Lawson State University, playing on that basketball team, as a small forward, as well. From there, he transferred to Tougaloo College, where he studies to obtain an Undergraduate Degree in Health and Recreation Education and also played for the nationally ranked basketball team. Having quickly acclimated into the Tougaloo family, Mr. Mabry was elected Mr. Tougaloo by vote of his peers for the 2010-2011 school years. Mr. Mabry now speaks to kids all around the world hoping to provide inspiration with his story. Mr. Mabry graduated from Tougaloo College in May 2011 with a degree in education and is currently a teacher at Whitten Middle School. Mr. Mabry published his first book titled ``A Dark Journey to A Light Future'', which made him one of the youngest authors in the state of Mississippi at the age of 24. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Tommie Mabry.