Bennie Thompson

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commend Mr. Don Hewitt, a trailblazer in sustainable urban development and a visionary entrepreneur whose work has made a transformative impact on communities throughout Jackson, Mississippi, and beyond. Mr. Hewitt is the founder and owner of Advanced Technology Building Solutions (ATBS), established in 2004 and headquartered in Jackson. With more than 20 years of experience in real estate development and urban planning, Mr. Hewitt has consistently prioritized community- centered solutions that emphasize walkability, environmental design, and economic opportunity. Under his leadership, ATBS has emerged as a leader in mixed-use developments that integrate green spaces, affordable housing, retail accessibility, and local business engagement. The company's initiatives frequently involve partnerships with public housing authorities, nonprofit organizations, and government entities--leading to the revitalization of underutilized spaces into vibrant, inclusive neighborhoods. Currently, ATBS is collaborating with the West Jackson Community Development Corporation and the Jackson Medical Mall Foundation to implement an innovative urban streetscape project in West Jackson. This development will offer affordable workspace for local entrepreneurs and startups, fostering economic opportunity and nurturing local talent. Mr. Hewitt's commitment to sustainability extends beyond physical infrastructure. As a participant in the AI Business Accelerator Cohort, he is integrating artificial intelligence into project planning to optimize sustainability metrics and enhance community engagement. His forward-thinking approach ensures that urban development remains both efficient and equitable. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to honor Mr. Don Hewitt for his service, leadership, and unwavering dedication to building a stronger, more inclusive Mississippi. His work exemplifies what it means to develop with the community and for the community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commend Mr. Don Hewitt, a trailblazer in sustainable urban development and a visionary entrepreneur whose work has made a transformative impact on communities throughout Jackson, Mississippi, and beyond. Mr. Hewitt is the founder and owner of Advanced Technology Building Solutions (ATBS), established in 2004 and headquartered in Jackson. With more than 20 years of experience in real estate development and urban planning, Mr. Hewitt has consistently prioritized community- centered solutions that emphasize walkability, environmental design, and economic opportunity. Under his leadership, ATBS has emerged as a leader in mixed-use developments that integrate green spaces, affordable housing, retail accessibility, and local business engagement. The company's initiatives frequently involve partnerships with public housing authorities, nonprofit organizations, and government entities--leading to the revitalization of underutilized spaces into vibrant, inclusive neighborhoods. Currently, ATBS is collaborating with the West Jackson Community Development Corporation and the Jackson Medical Mall Foundation to implement an innovative urban streetscape project in West Jackson. This development will offer affordable workspace for local entrepreneurs and startups, fostering economic opportunity and nurturing local talent. Mr. Hewitt's commitment to sustainability extends beyond physical infrastructure. As a participant in the AI Business Accelerator Cohort, he is integrating artificial intelligence into project planning to optimize sustainability metrics and enhance community engagement. His forward-thinking approach ensures that urban development remains both efficient and equitable. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to honor Mr. Don Hewitt for his service, leadership, and unwavering dedication to building a stronger, more inclusive Mississippi. His work exemplifies what it means to develop with the community and for the community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Tashunda Montgomery-Vaughn. Born in Marks, Mississippi, Tashunda spent her formative years between her hometown and the Florida Keys. She is the daughter of the late Deborah Montgomery Simpson and Jimmy D. Matthews and was raised by a family of veterans and educators, including her parents, George and Deborah Simpson, and her grandparents, William and Ruby Montgomery. She is married to retired Army Sergeant Kenneth R. Vaughn and is the proud mother of an exceptionally talented daughter, Ja'Brea J. Joiner. Tashunda's academic journey began in Quitman County, Mississippi, where she graduated with high honors while participating in sports and school organizations. She earned an Associate of Arts degree in Medical Records from Coahoma Community College in 1993, a Bachelor's of Social Work from Delta State University in 1996, and a Master of Arts in Education from the University of Mississippi in 2004. She has also pursued coursework in emergency medical technology and real estate, and received her licensure in social work from the State of Mississippi in 1999. Her professional experience spans the fields of education and social work. She has served in positions with ICD Head Start, Child Protective Services, the U.S. Department of the Army (Vicenza, Italy), the Aaron E. Henry Community Health Center, Tougaloo College/Delta HealthPartners, and is currently employed at Northwest Community College. In 2012, inspired by their experiences as caregivers, Tashunda and her husband Kenneth founded HealThyLand Adult Daycare, LLC, named after the II Chronicles 7:14. This facility provides personal care and respite services for the disabled and elderly, becoming a vital resource for the community. Continuing her entrepreneurial spirit, Tashunda recently purchased and restored a historic building--formerly a newspaper printing company--and transformed it into Jhreamery Flats, a short-term lodging establishment. A woman of deep faith, Tashunda has long attributed her strength and guidance to her spirituality. She has served as a choir director, Sunday School teacher, and Lay Servant at Trinity United Methodist Church. Inspired by her late mother's advocacy in the Poor People's Campaign and generational self-sufficiency, Tashunda has dedicated herself to community service, particularly focusing on maternal and child health, where she works to reduce maternal and infant mortality. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ms. Tashunda Montgomery- Vaughn for her enduring commitment to service, advocacy, and the betterment of Mississippi. Her legacy of compassion, leadership, and resilience continues to inspire all who know her.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commend Mission Mississippi of Leflore County, a remarkable organization based in Greenwood, Mississippi, for its unwavering commitment to racial reconciliation, spiritual healing, and community building. Founded as part of the broader Mission Mississippi movement, which began in Jackson in 1992, the Leflore County chapter has become a beacon of hope and unity in the Mississippi Delta. At a time when division often dominates our national discourse, this grassroots organization brings people together across racial and denominational lines through intentional fellowship, shared meals, and mutual respect. Mission Mississippi of Leflore County is led by Mr. Terry Williams, a local painting contractor and pastor, and Mr. Luke Quinn, a minister and clinical therapist. Together, they facilitate regular gatherings-- often breakfasts or luncheons--that rotate between churches with historically Black or White congregations. These events are not mere meetings; they are powerful acts of reconciliation, fostering honest dialogue, trust, and deeper understanding among individuals of diverse backgrounds. Through these efforts, Mission Mississippi of Leflore County engages in what Mr. Williams aptly describes as ``heart work''--emphasizing their belief that the path to racial harmony begins with the courage to know one another, to listen, and to love unconditionally. Their work underscores that true unity is not achieved solely through laws or policies, but through relationships and shared purpose. In January of this year, the chapter hosted a luncheon at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, followed by a community meal in April that featured remarks from Dr. Montrell Greene, pastor of Sycamore Street Church of Christ. These are but a few examples of their ongoing efforts to bring diverse voices to the table and create a space where differences are acknowledged and celebrated. Mr. Quinn, reflecting on his journey from Texas to Georgia to Wisconsin before settling in the Delta, spoke candidly of Mississippi's often misunderstood legacy. He rightly observed that Mississippi is too frequently portrayed as a scapegoat for America's racial challenges, when in truth, it is home to many individuals working tirelessly to heal those very wounds--Mission Mississippi of Leflore County among the foremost. Grounded in faith and expansive in impact, their mission exemplifies what it means to live out the gospel in a divided world--breaking bread, building bridges, and showing that we have more in common than in conflict. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Mission Mississippi of Leflore County for their vital work in uplifting their community, challenging stereotypes, and leading with grace and love. Their efforts remind us that reconciliation is possible--one conversation, one relationship, and one act of compassion at a time.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the enduring legacy and spiritual leadership of New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church, a historic institution founded in 1906 by Reverend Walter A. Robinson in Greenville, Mississippi. Born from the Old Jerusalem Church, New Jerusalem began with eleven members and a powerful vision rooted in faith, unity, and service. Rev. Robinson served as pastor until 1923, laying a strong foundation for the generations that followed. Under his leadership and that of his successors, the church survived the devastating 1927 flood and continued to grow--constructing a new building in 1951 and establishing the city's first African American church Usher Board in 1928. New Jerusalem stands firm in its belief that the Bible is the inspired, infallible Word of God, and that salvation is found through faith in Jesus Christ, who died for our sins and rose again. The church emphasizes water baptism, the observance of communion, and a personal, growing relationship with Christ through obedience, spiritual discipline, and transformation. The church's pastoral legacy includes a line of devoted leaders: Rev. Walter A. Robinson (1906 to 1923) Rev. Eddie Payne (1924 to 1927) Rev. Cleveland Williams (1927 to 1932) Rev. J.V. Haywood (1933 to 1956), who led the 1951 building reconstruction Revs. C.R. Raymond and H.C. Cherry (1956 to 1962) Rev. C.H. Moreland (1962 to 1969) Rev. Hosea Robinson (1969 to 1985), a spirit-filled leader from Chicago Rev. Jesse Jackson (1986 to 2004), known for his Bible- teaching ministry and inspirational voice Rev. Myron Holmes (2005 to Present), the youngest minister ever elected by the church whose motto is ``Preach to Impact and Not to Impress'' Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church for its steadfast service, historic leadership, and spiritual influence in the Mississippi Delta. It stands today not only as a house of worship, but as a pillar of hope, faith, and transformation for the community it so faithfully serves.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize Michelle and Dan King for their dedicated ministry and unwavering commitment to serving the Vicksburg community through New Beginnings Ministry of Vicksburg Training and Equipping Center. Since assuming leadership of the church in 2014, Michelle and Dan King have worked tirelessly to fulfill their mission of training and equipping followers of Christ, ensuring they are prepared for outreach and service. Their approach extends beyond the pulpit--they seek to empower individuals with the knowledge, faith, and tools needed to carry God's message into the world. Michelle King not only ministers within the church but also serves as a hospice chaplain, providing comfort and spiritual guidance to those facing life's most challenging moments. She further extends her ministry through a weekly Facebook Live lunchtime sermon, offering encouragement and faith-based teachings to a broader audience. In addition to their spiritual work, the Kings have made a tangible impact in the community through God's Storehouse, a food distribution ministry that provides essential nourishment to families in need. Their dedication to service has brought hope and relief to many, reinforcing the foundational Christian principles of compassion and generosity. Michelle's journey of faith is a testament to the transformative power of belief and perseverance. Though not raised in the church, she found her calling later in life and has since committed herself fully to guiding others on their own spiritual paths. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Michelle and Dan King for their exceptional ministry and selfless contributions to the people of Vicksburg.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, as Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, I rise to honor Ms. Kiara D. Burrell upon the conclusion of her service to the committee as a detailee from the U.S. Secret Service. Over the course of her 15-year career with the Secret Service, Ms. Burrell has distinguished herself as a dedicated public servant and a strategic leader. Ms. Burrell has led long-term fraud investigations and protective operations in support of dignitaries and major public events. Ms. Burrell has consistently been selected above her peers to coordinate domestic and international visits for several Presidents of the United States and their families. She also served as the Lead Advance Agent for the longest domestic visit involving several protectees in Secret Service history. More, Ms. Burrell's efforts to improve recruitment of Secret Service agents and her service as a mentor to newer agents demonstrate her commitment to keeping America safe from threats to our national security and to our Nation's leaders. Since joining the committee over 18 months ago, Ms. Burrell has made valuable contributions to our work by sharing her considerable expertise. She has been a reliable resource to committee staff and significantly advanced our legislative and oversight efforts. During her tenure on the committee, Ms. Burrell played a pivotal role in the preparation for hearings on organized retail crime and transnational repression. Additionally, Ms. Burrell assisted in the development of a package of three bipartisan bills that responded to the testimony received during a Subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence hearing. Throughout her time on the committee, Ms. Burrell has displayed a high degree of professionalism and personal commitment to providing Members of Congress and staff valuable insight and information. Ms. Burrell has demonstrated commendable dedication, enthusiasm, and good humor, which has helped all of us enormously. Mr. Speaker, once again, I thank Ms. Burrell for her service to the committee and our country, and I wish her the very best as she returns to the Secret Service.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable servant Jayden Dunbar. Born and raised in Woodville, Mississippi, he was blessed to grow up with a supportive mother and a loving family who instilled in me the values of hard work, resilience, and compassion. He has proudly achieved several notable accolades, including Salutatorian of 5th Grade Class (Class of 2018), Gifted 4th through 6th Grade, Academic-ACT Work Keys (Bronze Award), Beta Club (2015-2025, Honor Roll Awards, Principal Scholar Awards, Superintendent Scholar Awards, Advance & Proficiency for high scoring on State Test, National Career Readiness Certificate. He has numerous Football and Basketball achievements which have served as milestones in his pursuit of knowledge and have further fueled his desire to excel. With a remarkable academic record, 24 on the ACT and a 3.36 GPA. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Jayden Dunbar for his actions and achievements in the Woodville, Mississippi community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, we are here in the dark of night because President Trump has one goal: to pass massive tax cuts for billionaires by cruelly stealing healthcare away from millions of Americans. H.R. 1, the ``One Big Ugly Bill,'' isn't about securing the border, and it never has been. The bill recklessly throws an enormous amount of taxpayer money at the border to buy the votes of Republicans who are reluctant to support the GOP tax scam and devastating Medicaid cuts. Just tonight, Republicans snuck into the bill a $12 billion ``Lonestar Kickback'' to give Texas Governor Greg Abbott a handout for his unconstitutional border security operations. The ``One Big Ugly Bill'' gives the Trump administration billions to ramp up mass detentions and deportations, including American children with cancer, and deny due process to whomever they can, including those in the country legally. The ``One Big Ugly Bill'' spends $46.5 billion on Trump's failed border wall--which Trump originally said Mexico would pay for. That amount is nearly four times what Trump originally promised the wall would cost, and it is ten times what the bill spends on Customs and Border Protection personnel. The ``One Big Ugly Bill'' allows the Homeland Security Department to create a slush fund that will enable the worst impulses of the Trump administration, like private jets for the Secretary and securing the President's many multi-million-dollar golfing vacations at his branded properties. Mr. Speaker. I urge all my colleagues to reject the ``One Big Ugly Bill.''

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of two young Black men--Phillip Lafayette Gibbs and James Earl Green--whose lives were violently taken 55 years ago on May 15, 1970, on the campus of Jackson State College in Jackson, Mississippi. Phillip Gibbs was a 21-year-old junior at Jackson State College. He was majoring in political science and planned to attend law school. He was a husband and a father to a young son, Phillip Jr. At the time of his death, his wife Dale was home with their child and pregnant with their second son, Demetrius who would never get the chance to meet his father. In the late-night hours, nearly 500 rounds of ammunition were fired at students gathered near Alexander Hall. Phillip Gibbs was killed outside the dormitory, while James Green was struck and killed across the street near B.F. Roberts Hall. Twelve others were wounded. The walls and windows of Alexander Hall still bear the scars of that night. Despite multiple investigations, no one was ever held accountable for the shootings. Local and federal probes concluded that the use of force was excessive and unjustified. Yet, legal doctrines shielded those responsible, and justice we never served. To this day, the names Gibbs and Green are spoken with reverence in Jackson and beyond. Their memory lives on in the Gibbs-Green Plaza, which stands where blood was once spilled--now transformed into a space of reflection, remembrance, and resolve. In 2021, Jackson State University conferred honorary degrees posthumously on both young men-- an acknowledgment of the futures they were denied. Mr. Speaker, on this 55th anniversary, we do more than remember--we reaffirm our responsibility to tell their story with truth and dignity. Phillip Lafayette Gibbs and James Earl Green were sons of Mississippi whose lives mattered. Their futures were stolen, but their memory fuels our pursuit of justice and accountability. Let us ensure that future generations know their names--not just as victims, but as young men who deserved to grow old, to dream fully, and to live freely. In honoring them today, we commit ourselves to building a nation where no young person's life is met with such disregard--and where history is neither buried nor forgotten. May we speak their names, tell their story, and carry their legacy forward.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, we are here in the dark of night because President Trump has one goal: to pass massive tax cuts for billionaires by cruelly stealing healthcare away from millions of Americans. H.R. 1, the ``One Big Ugly Bill,'' isn't about securing the border, and it never has been. The bill recklessly throws an enormous amount of taxpayer money at the border to buy the votes of Republicans who are reluctant to support the GOP Tax Scam and devastating Medicaid cuts. Just tonight, Republicans snuck into the bill a $12 billion ``Lonestar Kickback'' to give Texas Governor Greg Abbott a handout for his unconstitutional border security operations. The ``One Big Ugly Bill'' gives the Trump administration billions to ramp up mass detentions and deportations, including American children with cancer, and deny due process to whomever they can, including those in the country legally. The ``One Big Ugly Bill'' spends $46.5 billion on Trump's failed border wall--which Trump originally said Mexico would pay for. That amount is nearly four times what Trump originally promised the wall would cost, and it is 10 times what the bill spends on Customs and Border Protection personnel. The ``One Big Ugly Bill'' allows the Homeland Security Department to create a slush fund that will enable the worst impulses of the Trump administration, like private jets for the Secretary and securing the President's many multi-million-dollar golfing vacations at his branded properties. Mr. Speaker, I urge all my colleagues to reject the ``One Big Ugly Bill.''

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commend Mr. Victor Johnson of Rosedale, Mississippi--a man whose lifelong dedication to the trucking industry and the Mississippi Delta region has resulted in transformative educational and economic opportunities for countless individuals. Victor Johnson, a native of Rosedale, MS, has been around truck driving his entire life. His deep family roots in the profession--from his father and grandfather to his brothers, uncles, nephews, and cousins--shaped his path and passion from a young age. By age 12, Mr. Johnson was already behind the wheel, foreshadowing a lifelong commitment to the road. With a strong independent streak and the entrepreneurial spirit instilled in him by his late mother, Cleo, Mr. Johnson has built a legacy that bridges family tradition, public service, and economic empowerment. In 2009, he founded Sam's Express LLC, a trucking company that still keeps him on the road today. Yet his contributions extend far beyond the highway. Recognizing the critical need for local truck driver training in the Mississippi Delta, Mr. Johnson founded the Delta Driving Institute (DDL) in Cleveland, MS. One of the few institutions of its kind in the state, DDL began accepting students in September 2023. Through a four- week, state-certified training program, Mr. Johnson--himself a certified third-party examiner--equips individuals over the age of 18 with the knowledge and practical experience required to earn their Commercial Driver's License (CDL). Graduates can pursue gainful employment across the country, lifting themselves and their families toward economic stability and success. Mr. Johnson constructed much of the Delta Driving Institute campus himself. It now includes a fleet of five rigs and a dump truck used in training. His school emerged in response to the many voices he heard in the community--individuals who were frustrated by the need to travel to distant cities like Jackson to pursue CDL training. By offering a local solution, he has removed a significant barrier to entry for aspiring drivers in the Delta region. Victor Johnson is a proud graduate of West Bolivar High School, Mississippi Delta Community College, and Valley State University. He has served his community not only through business but also as a former candidate for the Bolivar County Board of Supervisors. Continuing his legacy of development and empowerment, he is also the builder and owner of Cleo Apartments, a housing complex named in honor of his mother, whose values and influence have played a pivotal role in shaping his journey. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Victor Johnson as a visionary leader, a selfmade entrepreneur, and a committed son of Mississippi. Through his hard work, determination, and service to others, Mr. Johnson is helping steer the Delta toward a brighter future--one driver at a time.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an exceptional young leader, Mr. Colee M. Anthony of Indianola, Mississippi, for his academic excellence, public service, and unwavering dedication to civic engagement across the state of Mississippi. Mr. Anthony is currently pursing a Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy Leadership and Political Science at the University of Mississippi, with an expected graduation in May 2025. A proud graduate of Gentry High School in Indianola, Mississippi, he ranked 22nd out of a graduating class of 150 students in May 2021. Throughout his academic journey, Mr. Anthony has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to leadership and public service. As a member of the University of Mississippi's Men of Excellence organization since 2021, he has served in various roles, including Vice President during the 2022-2023 academic year and President during 2023- 2024. His leadership has helped cultivate a culture of integrity, mentorship, and excellence on campus. Mr. Anthony is also an active member of the Black Student Union, where he was elected Judicial Chair in November 2024. In this position, he ensures the organization upholds its constitution and remains mission-driven in serving Black students at the university. Additionally, he is a dedicated member of the University of Mississippi chapter of the NAACP. Outside of campus life, Mr. Anthony's service extends into the broader community. Since July 2024, he has served as the Mayor's Youth Advisor in Indianola, Mississippi, working to strengthen relationships between the city's youth and senior citizens and advising on crime- reduction strategies and community development initiatives. Mr. Anthony's commitment to public service is also reflected in his internship experiences. In the summer of 2024, he served in my Greenwood office, assisting with scheduling and constituent services. In 2023, he interned with Judge Carlos Palmer at Palmer Law Services in Greenwood, where he supported client appointments, attended court proceedings, and proofread legal documents. He also served as a student ambassador during the 2024 U.S. Senate campaign for Ty Pinkins, helping organize events and bringing the candidate to engage with students at the University of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, Colee M. Anthony embodies the promise of Mississippi's future--intelligent, driven, and dedicated to service. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing his outstanding achievements and in celebrating the positive example he sets for youth in our communities and across the Nation.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the remarkable 75-year legacy of Mississippi Valley State University (MVSU), an institution that has profoundly impacted the Mississippi Delta and the state of Mississippi as a whole. Founded in 1950 as Mississippi Vocational College, MVSU began with a mission to train teachers for rural and elementary schools and to provide vocational training. Over the decades, it has evolved into a comprehensive university offering a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including degrees in environmental health, criminal justice, business administration, and education. MVSU's commitment to academic excellence and community service has remained steadfast throughout its history. Under the leadership of its eighth and current president, Dr. Jerryl Briggs, Sr., MVSU continues to advance its mission with the mantra: ``ONE GOAL. ONE TEAM. ONE VALLEY . . . IN MOTION.'' The university has expanded its reach through off-campus centers such as the Greenwood Center and the Greenville Higher Learning Center, enhancing access to education in the Mississippi Delta. As we commemorate this significant milestone, let us recognize the contributions of MVSU's students, faculty, alumni, and administration. Their dedication and hard work have ensured that Mississippi Valley of State University remains a beacon of opportunity and a catalyst for positive change in our community. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Mississippi Valley State University on its 75th anniversary and look forward to the continued success and impact of this esteemed institution.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Quitman County Administrator, Beatrice Pryor. Beatrice Pryor was born in February 1992 to the late Lena Marie Pryor in Crenshaw, Mississippi. She is the youngest of three siblings, including McRickeo and Ericka Pryor. In her early years, her mother, Renae Crowder, and her sister, Quanneisha Crowder, adopted and raised her in Darling, Mississippi. During her formative years in Quitman County, Ms. Pryor participated in the Upward Bound Programs offered by Coahoma Community College, where she developed a keen interest in accounting. This engagement enabled her to undertake college courses while completing her high school education. Ms. Pryor graduated from Madison Shannon Palmer High School and subsequently attended Northwest Community College, where she completed her degree after only one semester. A proponent of lifelong learning, she graduated from Delta State Univeisity in May 2016 with a double major in Finance and Business Administration. She is also a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. In 2017, Ms. Pryor assumed the role of Assistant Economic Development Director for Quitman County, where she made significant contributions to the county's financial advancement. Her strategic initiatives and resource-seeking efforts were pivotal in achieving improvements through effective networking and grant writing at the regional, state, and federal levels. In 2021, Ms. Pryor was appointed to the Board of Trustees for Northwest Community College. She has also served as a board member for Mid-State Opportunities and has been actively involved in the Mules & Blues Festival and the Mule Train Historical Society. Ms. Pryor is the youngest Black woman to serve as the County Administrator in Quitman County. Her responsibilities encompass overseeing and managing the county's budget, marketing strategies, and operational and property functions. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ms. Beatrice Pryor for her dedication to serving Quitman County.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ms. Angela Y. Carson, a dedicated leader and community advocate, for her outstanding service as Executive Director of Pine Grove Association, Inc., a nonprofit organization based in Canton, Mississippi. Founded in 1992 by Rufus and Aggie Carson, Pine Grove Association has been a cornerstone of the Canton community for over three decades. The organization is rooted in a mission of empowering individuals and families by fostering mobility, advocating for social justice, and promoting diversity and inclusion. Under Ms. Carson's visionary leadership, Pine Grove Association continues to offer impactful programs and services that serve both youth and adults. Among these is the Madison Area Global Innovation Collaborative (MAGIC), a transformative initiative designed to promote global learning opportunities for middle school students. Through education and innovation, MAGIC equips the next generation with the skills, values, and global perspective necessary for success in an increasingly interconnected world. The mission of Pine Grove Association--to empower individuals through value-centered leadership, talent development, and community well- being--remains steadfast. Ms. Carson has further advanced this mission by exploring cutting-edge strategies, including the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) to scale the organization's operations. Her goals include developing a scalable business model, optimizing internal processes through AI applications, and preparing for future funding through AI-driven data analysis. Ms. Carson's commitment to innovation and equity in community building exemplifies the forward-thinking leadership that uplifts and transforms lives. Through her stewardship, Pine Grove Association remains a beacon of empowerment and inclusion for the citizens of Canton and surrounding communities. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Ms. Angela Y. Carson for her tireless work and in celebrating the ongoing impact of Pine Grove Association, Inc. on the lives of Mississippians.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable servant, Ja'Kyra Zyrielle Chapman. Ja'Kyra Zyrielle Chapman is a 17-year-old visionary residing in Centreville, Mississippi--one of the smallest cities in the state. She is a dreamer with an abundance of ambition that reaches far beyond the horizon. The youngest of four children, Ja'Kyra was raised in a family where love holds greater value than material possessions, and cherished memories are considered more precious than anything the world can offer. Humility has been the cornerstone of her upbringing and her approach to life. Academically, Ja'Kyra has demonstrated excellence and dedication. She holds a 4.13 GPA, earned a 26 on the ACT, and has received numerous honors and awards. These accomplishments reflect her commitment to continuous improvement and her preparation for success in future academic and professional endeavors. Aspiring to become a fashion designer, Ja'Kyra is also a trailblazer in her family as the first to attend college. She is eager to embrace new experiences and is determined to lead a life of purpose. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ja'Kyra Zyrielle Chapman for her outstanding achievements and contributions to the Centreville, Mississippi community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a dedicated leader and community servant, Mr. Alvin Stimage, for his 34 years of outstanding service at the Vicksburg YMCA. Mr. Stimage has been a pillar of the Vicksburg community, promoting fitness, well-being, and mentorship through his work at the YMCA. When the facility first acquired exercise equipment, Mr. Stimage became instrumental in training members on how to use the machines effectively, demonstrating his commitment to health and wellness. Throughout his career, Mr. Stimage has worn many hats, from helping run the YMCA's childcare program and working in maintenance to serving as one of the organization's first personal trainers at the Vicksburg location. He currently serves as a personal trainer and the facility's night supervisor, roles through which he continues to positively impact countless lives. Mr. Stimage's contributions extend far beyond physical fitness. He has been a mentor to young people, offering guidance and instilling values of respect and resilience. One example of his impactful mentorship involved a young man who was able to calmly and effectively handle a tense situation, crediting Mr. Stimage's influence for his ability to de-escalate the incident. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Mr. Alvin Stimage for his exemplary dedication to the Vicksburg YMCA and his unwavering commitment to bettering his community. His legacy of leadership and service will inspire generations to come.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 881, the DHS Restrictions on Confucius Institutes and Chinese Entities of Concern Act seeks to help address the threat posed to U.S. colleges and universities by the People's Republic of China and Chinese Communist Party. The People's Republic of China and the CCP have poured hundreds of millions of dollars into U.S. universities through Confucius Institutes and other programs. These programs have given China, a strategic competitor, a platform to potentially interfere with academic freedom and free speech as well as greater access to sensitive intellectual property and national security information. To curtail these efforts, H.R. 881 requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to ensure that U.S. institutions of higher education that have relationships with Confucius Institutes, Thousand Talents Program, or vaguely defined Chinese entities of concern do not receive any funds from the Department of Homeland Security. This funding prohibition is similar to those found for the Department of Defense in the 2019 and 2021 National Defense Authorization Acts and the National Science Foundation in the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022. However, the restrictions in those measures were limited to universities with Confucius Institutes only, and the ban was so successful there are only a handful of Confucius Institutes remaining on U.S. campuses. That is why H.R. 881 includes a new category of banned relationships: those between U.S. institutions of higher education and so-called Chinese entities of concern. In the bill, a Chinese entity of concern is any university or college in the People's Republic of China that meets at least one of nine very broad criteria. As a result, H.R. 881 has the possibility to prohibit any DHS funding from going to any U.S. university that has any relationship with virtually any Chinese university. That is why Democrats on the House Homeland Security Committee have worked to bring H.R. 881 more in line with the funding bans found in previous legislation by including a waiver for the Secretary of Homeland Security like those the past legislation had for the Secretary of Defense and National Science Foundation Director. Now, H.R. 881 contains a waiver provision that allows the Secretary of Homeland Security to permit Department funding to go to U.S. institutions of higher education that maintain a relationship with programs and entities in China if the relationship is either in the national security interests of the United States or has no bearing on the national security interests of the United States or its allies. This is critical, as the bill's language could encompass all sorts of agreements between academic institutions in the United States and China, including student exchange programs and other cultural programs that benefit American students, and ultimately our country. Along those same lines, the bill now also includes a provision that requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to provide outreach and, upon request, technical assistance to U.S. institutions of higher education relating to compliance with the bill. I appreciate Representative Pfluger's willingness to work with us to improve his bill by including the waiver and technical assistance language. Mr. Speaker, House Democrats share concerns that Chinese Communist Party interference with U.S. colleges and universities could lead to a wide variety of negative outcomes. That said, House Democrats do not want to see legitimate academic activity between the United States and China hindered. The compromise language recognizes the spirit of the bill--the need to protect America's intellectual property and academic freedom--and takes steps to mitigate the risk of going too far and denying critical Homeland Security funding to U.S. universities for any relationship with virtually any Chinese university. I do not support creating another pretext for the Trump administration to deny U.S. universities Federal funding, but I also do not want to see our greatest strategic competitor gain a greater foothold on college campuses that could put our national security at risk, either. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as she may consume to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Chu).

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, we must carefully balance potential risks to homeland security posed by the CCP with the benefits of educational and cultural exchange programs. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to address the challenges and burdens placed on Black Americans during the first 100 days of the Trump Administration. Donald Trump is undoing the progress African Americans have fought for, threatening justice, equality, and our democracy. His administration has cut jobs, programs, and services that help Black professionals, students, and business owners thrive. Mississippi's public universities invested over $23 million in DEI programs that supported Black students, and now those programs are at risk. Donald Trump has also removed protections for minority-owned businesses, weakened civil rights enforcement, and cut funding for public health research, all while costs rise. More than 664,000 Mississippians are at risk of losing Medicaid. Black families, already facing chronic illness and poor healthcare access, will bear the full burden. Head Start, which serves nearly 20,000 children in Mississippi, is also in danger. Black children, who already face significant barriers to education, will be hit the hardest. These cuts cause actual harm and send the message that Black lives and futures don't matter. We deserve leadership that sees, hears, and fights for us. And we won't stop demanding it.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an amazing employee of the Jefferson County School District, who is continuously nurturing futures daily. Mrs. Yashica Suddeth has been recognized as one of the employees for the month of February 2025. Her unwavering dedication to the prekindergarten scholars at Jefferson County Early Learning Collaborative is profoundly shaping their educational journeys. From warmly greeting each child to meticulously planning engaging learning activities, Mrs. Suddeth is cultivating a deep appreciation for learning among the young learners. The Early Learning Collaborative is one of many exemplary initiatives within the Jefferson County School District, designed to prepare children for future success by fostering essential social skills, self- control, and readiness for reading. Mrs. Suddeth's contributions are very vital in creating a strong foundation for these scholars and ensuring they not only meet but exceed academic standards. Superintendent Adrian Hammitte expressed, ``Mrs. Suddeth's genuine love for children shines through in everything she does. Her commitment to nurturing the scholars not only enriches their lives but also strengthens our entire school community. We are immensely grateful for her dedication and passion.'' Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mrs. Yashica Suddeth for her extraordinary contributions to our educational community and the Jefferson County School District.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Huey Paul Williams, Sr., a devoted man of faith, a trailblazer in gospel music, and a proud native of Mississippi. Born to the late Leon ``Pop'' Williams and Mrs. Amanda Williams in Smithdale, Mississippi, Huey was raised in a household where faith and music were intertwined. His parents instilled in him the values of worship, perseverance and dedication to spreading the Gospel through song. With their encouragement, Huey embarked on a journey that would make him a beloved figure in the gospel music community. A dedicated family man, Huey was supported throughout his life by his loving wife, Mamie Williams, his son, Huey Paul Williams, II, and his daughters, Dee Dee, Wanda, Shononda, and Joy. Their unwavering support allowed him to pursue his calling in gospel music, ensuring that his message of faith and inspiration reached audiences across the nation and beyond. Huey began his musical journey singing gospel alongside his brothers in their youth. Though he was the last remaining original member of the group founded by his late father, he carried forward its mission and propelled the Jackson Southernaires to national and international recognition. Under his leadership, the group became one of the most influential gospel recording artists in Mississippi and the United States. Their music resonated deeply with fans of all generations, securing them a place in gospel history. The Jackson Southernaires, originally formed in 1940 and becoming active in recording in 1969, have released more than 34 albums. From 1969 to 2010, they released 28 albums that consistently ranked among the top in gospel music. Huey's songwriting, arranging, and powerful vocals contributed to the group's longevity and success, ensuring their music became a staple in gospel households. His contributions not only enriched the gospel music industry but also uplifted countless individuals through the power of song. Beyond his musical achievements, Huey was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing in his spare time. Even when he was not on the road ministering through music, he found solace in these simple joys of life. On March 24, 2025, at the age of 87, Huey Williams passed away, leaving a remarkable legacy of faith, music, and perseverance. His voice and message will continue to inspire future generations of gospel artists and listeners alike. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing and honoring the life and legacy of Huey Paul Williams, Sr. His impact on gospel music and his devotion to his faith and family will never be forgotten. We celebrate his contributions and extend our deepest condolences to his loved ones and the countless fans who cherished his music and ministry.