Bennie Thompson

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Corporal Eugene Robinson, who is a remarkable Veteran, community and public servant. Corporal Eugene Robinson was born on July 17, 1949 to L. J. and Lula Bell Robinson. He is the oldest of 8 children. His siblings are: Lula Mae R. Ward, Evelyn R. Roberson, Carolyn R. McCadney, Edward Robinson, Lawrence J. Robinson, Charles Robinson and Patrina R. Dace. He attended Brushy Creek Attendance Center located in the Brushy Creek Community until he graduated from the 8th grade and had to attend William Henry Holtzclaw School in Crystal Springs, MS and graduated in 1967. Corporal Robinson joined the United States Marines in 1967 and served until 1971. He went to Parris Island, SC for his basic training and he had his Infantry and MOS training at Camp Lejeune. He was deployed from Camp Pendleton, CA, where he spent 19 months in the Vietnam War. His duty there was Motor Transport, which was hauling ammo and supplies to the front line. Afterwards, he was shipped back to Camp Lejeune, where he received an honorable discharge in September 1971. Corporal Robinson's Medals and Ribbons received are: National Defense Service medal; Good conduct; Navy Unit Commendation; Combat Action Ribbon; Republic of Vietnam Service Medal; and Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal. Corporal Robinson is a member of Brushy Creek M. B. Church where he serves as the church secretary, Sunday school teacher and is on the Deacon's ministry for over 30 years. Corporal Robinson also served his community as Assistant chief of Hopewell Volunteer Fire Dept, when it was first organized in the Hopewell Community and is an active member of Hopewell Lodge #507 F & AM where he currently serves as secretary. Corporal Robinson is married to Joyce Murry Robinson and they have 3 children: Samantha Murfree, Eugene Robinson, II and Jarvis Robinson. To provide for his family Corporal Robinson followed in his father's footsteps and became a pulp wood hauler. He soon moved on to become a tree length logger being one of the first black loggers in the small community of Brushy Creek. He continued until he owned his own Logging Company and retired in 2012. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing a remarkable servant and Veteran, Corporal Eugene Robinson, for his dedication to serving our country and others.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor 1LT(P) Kina Tulane Lewis, who is a remarkable soldier and public servant. 1LT(P) Kina Tulane Lewis is a life time resident of Georgetown, MS. She was born in Copiah County on January 6, 1988 to Joe Donell and Carrie Ann Lewis. Ms. Lewis is the sister of three brothers: Ronald Cleve, Joey and Anthony Lewis. 1LT(P) Lewis attended Crystal Springs High School where she graduated and continued her education at Alcorn State University with a major in Business Administration. 1LT(P) Kina Tulane Lewis joined the United States Army in June 7, 2007 and was commissioned as officer in May 21, 2010. 1LT(P) Lewis is stationed at Fort Riley, KS with 1-7 FA as the Battalion S6. Some of 1LT(P) Lewis' duties are being in charge of communication systems, such as computers, radios, satellite systems and phones. 1LT(P) Lewis is still serving in the United States Army and the awards that she has received so far are: ARCOM and AAM. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing a dedicated solider, 1LT(P) Kina Tulane Lewis, for her dedication to serving others and our country.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a hardworking and self motivated man, Rev. Arthur Evans, Sr. Mr. Arthur Evans, Sr., a lifelong resident of Crystal Springs, MS was born on December 26, 1940. He is the son of the late Mr. ``Jim'' Evans and the late Mrs. Mattie Pearl Evans. Mr. Evans originally started in the pulpwood hauling business in 1955 trading in his personal car for a pulpwood truck. By 1966, he moved into the gravel business. The business was a huge success. However, being a successful black business owner in 1966 in Mississippi did not come without the horrible racial obstacles of that time. Mr. Evans was faced with unjust stipulations in contracts that would have never been included if he were white. His truck drivers were constantly harassed and even told ``they would continue to be pulled over unless they quit driving for this black man''. Despite the ridicule and malice aimed toward him and his business, Mr. Evans continued to press on as he would not be bullied by bigotry and racial hatred. During the apex of his successful trucking business, Mr. Evans had a fleet of up twenty trucks hauling each day. Now, 55 years later, since the purchase of that pulpwood truck, Arthur Lee Evans Trucking is still going strong. The owner, as strong as ever, is now known as Rev. Arthur Evans, Sr., since being called into ministry in December, 2000. Rev. Evans has been married to Mrs. Johnnie Mae Evans for 54 years and is the proud father of 5 children, 15 grandchildren, and 4 great grandchildren. ``Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.'' by John Wesley, is the sentiments of the heart of Rev. Arthur Evans, Sr. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing a dynamic and dedicated businessman, Rev. Arthur Evans, Sr.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable veteran and community servant, Mr. LeShaun McWright, who has shown what can be done through hard work, setting goals, and aiming high. Mr. LeShaun McWright is a lifelong resident of Leland, Mississippi. He is a 1989 honor graduate of Leland High School. In March 1990 he graduated from the U.S. Marine Corps Basic Training in Paris Island, South Carolina. LeShaun served in the Marine Corp during Desert Shield/ Desert Storm from December 1990 to July 1991. He received an Honorable Discharge from the United States Marine Corp in December of 1993. Mr. McWright joined the Leland Police Department as a Patrol Officer in April 1995. In June 1996 he graduated from the Mississippi Law Enforcement Officer Training Academy. LeShaun worked as a Patrol Officer for the Greenville Police Department from May 1997 to August 1999. From 2000 to 2002 he was a Contract Security Officer at Federal Buildings in the Central and Northern Districts of Mississippi while still working with local law enforcement agencies in the MS Delta. Mr. McWright worked as a Patrolman with the Oxford, Mississippi Police Department from 2002-2004 and later returned to Greenville, MS Police Department from 2005-2006 as a First Class Patrolman and later a Juvenile/Gang Officer. Mr. McWright was deployed with Mississippi National Guard to Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2007-2008. Upon his return from deployment LeShaun returned to the Greenville Police Department's Juvenile/Gang Division and also worked with the Mayor's Protective Services Division. In October of 2011 LeShaun joined the Greenville Public School District as a Resource Officer where he is the Captain/Commander of Ground Operations. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. LeShaun McWright for his dedication to serving our great Country, his community and Greenville Public Schools.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a well-established rural town minority owned business, Mack's Cafee. Mack's Cafee opened for business August 2001 in Bolton, Mississippi. The owner, Mrs. Flora Bell Watson, has been known in the community as an extraordinary chef. Alongside her daughter, Anitra Watson, Ms. ``Flo Bell'' (as she is affectionately called) has nurtured her masterful skills of seasoning and marinating soul food meals for most of her life. Mrs. Watson spent most of her life in Bolton and was employed with SOS Truck Stop in Clinton, Mississippi for nearly 30 years. She served as cook and waitress while working alongside her daughter Anitra, who worked with the same company for 22 years. Once SOS Truck Stop went out of business, Mrs. Watson and her daughter took the opportunity to open her own restaurant in the town she grew up in. She acquired restaurant space for lease in the heart of town and after a few modifications, she opened for business. At the time of her opening, there was only one other restaurant in town. Throughout the years, Mrs. Watson has had to make small modifications to keep up with the change of time, but overall her restaurant has remained a constant staple within the community. Many people come from various locations daily to indulge in the soulfully cooked meals of Mack's Cafee. Her business is only open Monday through Friday for full spread lunch and short orders. Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays reduce business the most, and the closing of her town's Boys & Girls Club also noticeably decreased her clientele. She currently employs four other workers. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mrs. Flora Bell Watson and Anitra Watson for their steadfast dedication to serving the Bolton community through great, dependable, and compassionately prepared meals and service in Mack's Cafee.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ---honor a diligent law enforcer, Chief Rico -Smith. ------ Mr. Smith was born and raised in Coahoma, Mississippi. He is the only son of Robert and Bettye Smith Malane. Chief Smith attended Coahoma Agricultural High, and Coahoma Community College, in Clarksdale, Mississippi. He entered the United States Army for 3 years and was in the Army Band. He also graduated from Valley State in Itta Bena, Mississippi. Chief Smith began his law enforcement career in 1995 as a patrolman and juvenile officer with the Friars Point Police Department where his dedication and commitment afforded him an opportunity to work with juveniles and participate on numerous boards, committees and forums. Chief Smith served on the Coahoma County School Board, a board member for the Boys and Girls Club, a team facilitator for the Coahoma County Multidisciplinary Child Abuse Review Team and was appointed by the former Governor Haley Barbour to the Children's Justice Act Task Force for the State of Mississippi. Chief Smith is an advocate for juveniles by working with such programs as the Adolescent Opportunity Program and the Toney Gobar Program. Chief Smith is the former Chief of Police for the Town of Coahoma and is presently the Police Chief for the Town of Tutwiler, in Tutwiler, Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Chief Rico Smith for his dedication in being an outstanding Law Enforcer.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a well-established rural town minority owned business, Riley's Bookkeeping Service. Riley's Bookkeeping Service is owned and operated by Mr. LeRoy Riley. Riley's Bookkeeping Service has served its customers for more than 30 years. It has provided over 30 years of income tax preparation and currently offers bookkeeping service, full processing of payroll checks, along with quarter report forms and also batch provider for EFTPS. Mr. Riley said that his business began as a little side service that he used to do to help people. Mr. Riley is a Mississippi Valley State University alum and a math major that had more than 35 years as a public school educator, including serving as an assistant principal. He is also a certified notary, a hunter educator and gun safety instructor for the state of Mississippi. Through his bookkeeping services, Mr. Riley says he roughly serves more than 400 people per year. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. LeRoy Riley and the Riley's Bookkeeping Service for his steadfast dedication to serving his community with great, dependable, and compassionate service.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable Law Enforcer, Deputy Terry Williams, Sr. On August 4, 1968, Henry and Emma Roberts gave birth to Terry Williams, Sr. He is a 1986 graduate of Quitman County High School in Marks, MS. Deputy Williams furthered his education by attending Northwest Community College and majoring in Communication. His first job was a machine operator for the Thermos Company, where he learned leadership skills. After leaving Thermos, he began working at Frame Picture Enterprise in Batesville, MS. During his time there, he supervised for 9 years. In 2001, Deputy Williams began a job with the Quitman County Sheriff Department as a part-time jailer. Since his employment with the Quitman County Sheriff Department, he has served in many capacities such as County Arson Investigator, Triad Coordinator, Juvenile Resource Officer, Jail Administrator, Dispatcher and Deputy Sheriff. Also he serves and is acting Chief of Police for the town of Sledge, MS. Deputy Williams is married to Lucille Williams, who has worked for the Quitman County Justice for the past 16 years. He is the father of four children. Deputy Williams' goal is to continue to serve and protect the citizens of Quitman County for many more years to come. Through God and determination, Deputy Williams will continue to make a difference in his community. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Deputy Terry Williams, Sr. for his dedication in being an outstanding Law Enforcer.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable public servant, Tyrone Lewis, who is a native of Jackson, Mississippi and a proud product of Jackson Public Schools as a 1978 graduate of Lanier High School. Upon completing high school, he went on to attend Jackson State University and graduated in 1982 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mass Communications. While exploring his career options, Tyrone's desire to serve and build community affirmed to his decision to apply to the Jackson Police Training Academy. After completing the training and certification process in 1983, Tyrone Lewis began his successful career in law enforcement with the Jackson Police Department. During his 28-year career, he steadily rose through the ranks; mastering each position he was assigned. Having been directly and indirectly involved with virtually every facet of the Jackson Police Department, Tyrone developed an intense understanding of the importance of transparency, integrity, and communication. He has become well aware of the law enforcement needs that the citizens of Hinds County have as a whole. Tyrone knows that all citizens deserve a safe and orderly community maintained by firm and fair law enforcement. Tyrone's career began as a Patrolman. He worked steadily and was later promoted to a Shift Sergeant. Eventually, he was promoted to a Neighborhood Enforcement Team Commander and then Acting Precinct Commander. As his stellar career continued, Tyrone was made Commander/ Director of the Jackson Police Academy where he served until his promotion to Acting Chief of Police in 2009. In 2010, Tyrone retired from the Jackson Police Department as Deputy Chief of the Community Services Division. While in each position, he provided a solid leadership base for personnel, effectively managing the overall operations and procedures, and handling the fiscal responsibilities with respect to his assignment. Having worked in so many capacities with the Jackson Police Department, Tyrone underwent extensive training in a wide variety of areas of law enforcement and public safety including: crime prevention, police supervisory training, field officers' training, control & restraint techniques, evidence, crime scene, search & seizure, weapons of mass destruction, Constitutional law, police tactical driving, and diversionary devices. Throughout his stellar service career, Tyrone has been recognized for his contributions to the community as he was named Jackson's Best in 1994 and Officer of the Year in 1992. He is also a member of the Mississippi Law Enforcement Officers Training Academy and both the Mississippi and National Associations of School Resource Officers. He is also a member of the MS Underage Drinking Prevention Coalition of Hinds County and the Metro Jackson Community Prevention Coalition of Hinds County. Over the years Tyrone has made it a point to continually participate in a variety of community and civic organizations. He organized the 1st Annual Officer Thomas Catchings Toy Drive in 2008 through the Jackson Police Department and has also served as a Board Member for the Farish Street Heritage Festival since 2008. Tyrone is a very active member of Stronger Hope Baptist Church where he is a Deacon and Pastor's Armor Bearer. He also serves on the Board of Directors of Apostolic Restoration Ministry. Tyrone is a member of Masonic Lodge #701 and of the Jackson Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated. Tyrone is fully aware of the crime and economic conditions that presently face our community. He is also keenly aware of the perceptions that many citizens have of the Hinds County Sheriff's Department. As such, upon his election his goals include restoring safety to our communities and rebuilding trust in the Sheriff's Department. He will also work to create a greater relationship with all law enforcement agencies and increase the visibility and accountability of the department and its' officers. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Sheriff Tyrone Lewis for his dedication to serving.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable Sheriff, the Honorable Charles L. Jones who is a resident of Clarksdale, Mississippi. Sheriff Jones was born in Quitman County, Mississippi to Mrs. Georgia Jones and has three brothers who are all law enforcement officers. Sheriff Jones received his education from Clarksdale High School, Coahoma Agricultural High School, Coahoma Community College, and Almeda University where he received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice. Sheriff Jones began his law enforcement career in 1994 with the Clarksdale Police Department where he received certification in Basic Law Enforcement and moved up in the ranks from patrolman to gang officer, investigator, and to the SWAT Team Squad. In 2002 he ended his tenure with the Clarksdale Police Department and became a deputy sheriff at the Coahoma County Sheriff's Department and was employed their until 2004. He became Chief of Police for the Town of Friars Point where he was instrumental in reducing crime with the assistance of state and federal law enforcement agencies until 2009. In 2007 he ran for election to become sheriff of Coahoma County. Sheriff Jones challenged the irregularities of that election process and in 2009 a special election was ordered by the Governor of Mississippi upon the direction of the Mississippi Supreme Court and he was elected Sheriff of Coahoma County. Throughout his law enforcement career he desired to be the best enforcer of the law by taking various seminar classes and making sure his staff participates as well. Sheriff Jones has earned numerous certificates and awards. Sheriff Jones is married to Mrs. Andrea Jones; and they are the proud parents of five children. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing an amazing law enforcement officer Sheriff Charles Jones for his dedication in protecting and serving the citizens of Coahoma County, Mississippi.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a hardworking and self motivated man, Mr. A.C. Garner. Mr. Garner, a son of a sharecropper, was born in Grand Gulf, Claiborne County, Mississippi. He was reared on a plantation, educated in the public schools and later joined the United States Armed Forces. He received a Bachelor's Degree in Sociology from Alcorn State University, Alcorn, Mississippi. Mr. Garner is a veteran of the U.S. Navy where he was trained as a power plant operator. In 1958 he participated in Nuclear Testing of A and H bombs at Bikini Island. He has worked as a sales representative and also as an engineering inspector for public roads. Mr. Garner became President of the Claiborne County branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People in 1980. In that same year he helped to carry a 13 year boycott case from Port Gibson, Claiborne County, Mississippi to the United States Supreme Court known as the ``Port Gibson Boycott''. He personally appeared before the United States Supreme Court as a guest of the court and the case was won in the NAACP's favor. In that same year of 1980, Mr. Garner was appointed by the Claiborne County Board of Supervisors as director of Emergency Management. At that time he started attending colleges and universities across the United States in order to be certified to help bring the one and only nuclear power plant in Mississippi on line by 1985. In 1994, Mr. Garner completed all courses and was certified by the Emergency Management Institute in Emmitsburg, MD. Mr. Garner is retired and is a small farmer in Port Gibson, Mississippi. He raises beef cattle. He serves as the President of the Black Farmers Association of Claiborne County. He is the President of the Claiborne County Port Commission and is a lifetime member of the NAACP. Mr. Garner is married to Charity Carpenter Garner and they have four children: Albert, Jr., Andra, TaWanda and Exzavian. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing a dynamic man, Mr. A.C. Garner.

Mr. THOMPSON of MIssissippi

Mr. THOMPSON of MIssissippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable young lady that is a community servant, Ms. Kaylyn Antoinette Norwood, who has shown what can be done through hard work, setting goals, and aiming high. Ms. Kaylyn Antoinette Norwood is the daughter of Marcus, Sr. and Linda Norwood of Crystal Springs, MS. Ms. Norwood is a member of White Oak United Methodist Church where she sings in the choir and is a teacher for children's church. Ms. Norwood attended Crystal Springs High School and was a member of Mu Alpha Theta, BETA Club, FBLA, Student Council, SADD Club, FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes), Soccer and a Cheerleader. She received the highest overall GPA in 10th, 11th and 12th grades, highest GPA in English I, AP English II, Biology I, Spanish II, MS Studies, Algebra II, World History, JROTC II, BCT I, Human A & P and Highest Overall GPA Female Athlete (9th, 10th, & 11th grade) and the Robert Green Tiger Award (cheerleader). Ms. Norwood graduated from Crystal Springs High School on May 24, 2013 as Valedictorian. This is the highest honor for a high school student. Not only is Kaylyn a scholar, but she is a Model for Barbizon Modeling/Acting School. She was crowned Ms. Barbizon in 2011 and has traveled to Hollywood, California where she earned the title of National Cover Model for the National American Miss Pageant. She was also crowned 2010-2011 Debutante Queen for the Heroines of Jericho 11th District Debutante Ball. Ms. Norwood has participated in the Lions Club of MS Girls Leadership Conference and the American Legion Auxiliary Girls State Leadership Conference. Ms. Norwood is currently attending the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg, MS where she is majoring in Accounting. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ms. Kaylyn Antoinette Norwood for her dedication to serving her community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a jovial and ambitious woman Ms. Gloria Rogers. Gloria has shown what can be done through hard work, dedication and a desire to achieve. Gloria Rogers, a resident of Rolling Fork, Mississippi, was born on March 26, 1966 to Alean and Robert. She is a graduate of Rolling Fork High School located in Rolling Fork, MS. After graduation Gloria enrolled at Hinds Community College for one semester before moving to Panama City, Panama for three years. In November 1987 Gloria moved to Edwards Air Force Base in California where she attended Lancaster Community College. She later moved to San Diego, California and attended San Diego Community College. Gloria then attended Marie College of Medical Careers where she received her certification as Medical Assistant. She began work at Balboa Naval Hospital and the Gastroenterologist Clinic upon receiving her certification. Gloria later moved to Altamonte Springs, Florida where she lived for three years before returning to Mississippi in 1998. Upon her return to Rolling Fork, Mississippi, Gloria landed a job as a dispatcher for the Sharkey County Sheriff Department. She later began working as a dispatcher in Leland, MS. While working for Leland Police Department, Gloria decided at the ripe age of 38 to go to the Police Academy and become a police officer. After graduating from the Police Academy, Gloria served in the capacities of Officer, Investigator, Shift Supervisor while working for the Leland Police Department. Upon leaving the Leland Police Department she took a job as a Probation Offic the Mississippi Department of Correction Greenville, MS. Currently, Gloria is a School Resource Officer for the Leland School District Security Officer for Kroger stores. Gloria has two children: Kendrick and Brittany and three grandchildren: Jaylin, Justin and Kenya. She enjoys being a grandmother. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join m in recognizing Ms. Gloria Rogers for her dedication for change and serving her community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a self motivated leader and innovator of the community, Ms. Candace Windom and Miyori's Massage. Born and raised in Rolling Fork, Candace graduated from South Delta High School and completed her studies in massage therapy at Antonelli College in July 2012. She earned her license as a state board certified therapist shortly after. In late January 2013 Candace was hired as the only full-time massage therapist at Harlow's Casino in Greenville, Mississippi. At the age of 26, Candace opened the doors to Miyori's Massage at 133 Walnut Street in July 2013. Miyori's Massage offers a wide variety of massage techniques. ``This is my hometown,'' Windom said, ``I want to give back to my community and bring something here we've never really had.'' Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Candace Windom for giving back to the community in which she was born and reared.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable school, Jackson State University, that is located in Jackson, Mississippi. Jackson State University was founded in 1877, becoming a college in 1899, and is a historically black institution. It was granted university status in 1974. The University now awards Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral Degrees. It is a Carnegie Doctoral/ Research-Intensive institution. Jackson State University is known as ``Mississippi's Urban University.'' It operates the Mississippi Urban Research Center, which ``develops and offers instructional programs, forums, conferences and workshops on urban life.'' Although this is not the mission statement of the University, the University's degree programs are largely in areas which have some bearing on urban life, such as public health, business, education, engineering, and public administration. Some of the liberal arts are represented, but largely the traditional ones such as English, Chemistry, Political Science and Mathematics. Jackson State was founded in 1877 as Natchez Seminary by the American Baptist Home Society. The State of Mississippi gained control of the college in 1940 in order to train teachers. The University's current name was adopted in 1979. The University is composed of ten different colleges and divisions: the College of Education and Human Development; the College of Business; the College of Public Service; the College of Science, Engineering, and Technical Arts; the College of Liberal Arts; the College of Lifelong Learning; and the Divisions of Graduate Studies, International Studies, and Undergraduate Studies. There are seven undergraduate schools within the Colleges. Bachelor's Degrees are awarded in the Schools of Allied Health Sciences, Business, Education, Engineering, Liberal Arts, Science and Technology and Social Work. Graduate degrees are awarded in Allied Health, Business, Education, eleven Liberal Arts areas (including Public Policy and Administration and Urban and Regional Planning), Science and Technology, and Social Work. The school awards Doctoral Degrees in nine areas. The Education Specialist (Ed.S.) Degree is also awarded. Jackson State houses the College of Business, Education and Human Development, Liberal Arts, Lifelong Learning, Public Service, and Science, Engineering and Technology. Also available are the Divisions of International Studies, Library and Information Resources, and Undergraduate Studies. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Jackson State University for their dedication to serving.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an innovator of the community, Mr. Albert ``Al'' Little and Al's Flower Shop. Albert, a native of Yazoo City, Mississippi, decided to return to Yazoo County, MS after living in Chicago for 40 years, where he worked in real estate. Upon retirement Al decided that Chicago was too cold and decided to make a change. After returning to Yazoo City in 1995, Al worked with Mary Anderson, who handled landscaping for the city. Mr. Little credits Mary for teaching him about plants and flowers. Al is the owner of Al's Flower Shop located on Broadway in Yazoo City, Mississippi. Inside the shop, the static clears and the antique radio picks up some lively tune from the 1930s. ``This business is really just a fun hobby to me. I love doing it, and that's all there is to tell.'' says Al Little. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Albert ``Al'' Little for giving back to the community in which he was born.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a challenge-oriented young man who understands that it takes tenacity and self reliance to reach the highest success, Mr. Chester H. Stanford. Chester H. Stanford was born November 26, 1995 in Chicago, IL to proud parents Travis and Nora Stanford. He attended St. Elizabeth Catholic School in Chicago, IL for two years in kindergarten and first grade. It is this institution that he credits for giving him an advanced perspective of what knowledge is and what can be done to obtain it. In September 2003 Chester and his mother relocated to Vicksburg, MS to care for his grandmother. Chester believes the responsibility of caring for his grandmother in the absence of his mother is what taught him to care for others, which in turn made him want to do all he can to help the next person. Chester is a member of the Vicksburg High School JROTC, which he credits for molding his character. Chester has climbed the ranks in JROTC. Starting his freshman year, he went from being a Cadet Private to Cadet Corporal his sophomore year; he progressed from Cadet Corporal to Cadet Second Lieutenant and gained the position of the Battalion Training Officer. Currently, during his junior year, he progressed from Cadet Second Lieutenant to Cadet Captain. Through this program he has learned what service truly is. He has participated in and led several community service events at nursing homes, community events, and elementary schools. He has also participated in charity events for the local Child Abuse Prevention (CAP) Center through the Culinary Arts Program, through which he, along with 20 other students, prepared thousands of hot meals that were sold to gain money for the organization. Chester credits his mother for being the backbone of the family and directing his path. His motto is, ``that all things can be done through the love and service of your fellow man.'' Chester is a member of Mt. Carmel M. B. Church where he has served as secretary of the Sunday School Department since 2008 and in 2011 became a Sunday School teacher. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Chester H. Stanford for his hard work, dedication and a strong desire to achieve through adversity.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable Central Mississippi Civic Improvement Association, Inc. (CMCIA), d/b/a Jackson-Hinds Comprehensive Health Center. It was incorporated in October 1970 as a nonprofit 501c(3) organization to engage in planning and development of comprehensive health services for residents of poor, largely non-white, communities in Jackson, Mississippi and surrounding areas. Jackson-Hinds Comprehensive Health Center (JHCHC) is the largest community health center in Mississippi. Since its inception, JHCHC has grown from a ``one-bus-and-Sunday school-classroom'' operation to become a multi-site, multi-disciplinary provider of health services in Hinds, Warren, and Copiah counties. Jackson-Hinds is one of only two federally qualified health centers (FQHC) in the state operating a clinic for the homeless and the only FQHC operating a HUD housing complex for low-income elderly and disabled residents. A seventeen-member Board of Directors governs JHCHC. Its members represent civic and religious organizations, homeless persons, homemakers and residents of medically underserved communities that utilize center services and programs. Throughout its thirty-two year history, the Board of Directors, management and staff of JHCHC have delivered services consistent with its mission statement: To provide low cost, quality, family-based health care and social services to people who may not otherwise have access to them. A $16 million per year operation, JHCHC has an annual economic impact of approximately $32 million on the community. It employs over 180 health professionals throughout its three county service area, purchases goods and services from many local vendors and suppliers and serves as a training site for undergraduate and graduate students in various health care disciplines. Furthermore, JHCHC saves community resources by providing patients with more effective, cost-efficient care and reducing inappropriate use of local emergency rooms. As the largest provider of primary health care services to the poor, uninsured and underserved population in central Mississippi, the prime objective of JHCHC is to eliminate disparities in health care access for these groups, which often fall between the gaps of private insurance and personal income. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Jackson- Hinds Comprehensive Health Center for their dedication to serving.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable school, Tougaloo College. Tougaloo College is one of the United States' premier historically black college and universities. The American Missionary Association (AMA) founded Tougaloo in 1869. Early in that year the AMA had commissioned Allen P. Huggins, a former Union officer, to look for land for a normal-agricultural school. He found the former plantation of John Boddie about seven miles north of Jackson, Mississippi and negotiated to buy it from its owner, George McKee, for $10,500. The money for the plantation was provided by the Freedman's Bureau. In 1871 the Mississippi State Legislature granted the school a charter with the name ``Tougaloo University.'' In 1892 the state discontinued funding but the Normal Department was recognized as a teacher training school. College credit first became available in 1897, but qualifying for accreditation by the Southern Association took a number of years to achieve. Improvements in the library, academic degrees for teachers, and endowments led to state accreditation in the 1930s. With this, graduates who had taken 18 semester hours of education courses were granted a lifelong professional teaching license. Tougaloo had again undergone a name change in 1916 to Tougaloo College. In 1954 Tougaloo College merged with the Southern Christian Institute (SCI) in Edwards, Mississippi, because the two schools had similar missions and goals. The new school was called the Tougaloo Southern Christian College, but in 1962 was once again renamed Tougaloo College. Tougaloo was very active in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s and maintains a reputation for strong social commitment. Today Tougaloo, with approximately 1,000 students, is a private, coeducational, four-year, liberal arts school. It has a selective admittance rate, but is committed to providing those from challenging circumstances with a good education. The student population is primarily African American, but all are welcome to apply. Nearly 40 percent of the practicing African American physicians and dentists in the state of Mississippi are Tougaloo graduates, and 35 percent of all current Mississippi educators are. More than 66 percent of Tougaloo graduates enroll in graduate or Ph.D. programs immediately after graduating. Tougaloo has won national respect for its high academic standards. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Tougaloo College for their dedication to serving.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a well respected rural town minority owned business, Super Auto Shop. Super Auto Shop was established in 1985 in Bolton, Mississippi by Mr. Terry Williams. Originally from Jackson, Mississippi, Mr. Williams has always maintained an interest in auto body work from a very young age. In 1970, he moved to Chicago, Illinois and in 1979, he moved to Gary, Indiana, where he worked for Inland Steele Company for approximately 13 years. While working at Inland Steele, Mr. Williams performed auto body work as a hobby. In 1985, Mr. Williams married his wife Joanna and they both moved back to her hometown of Bolton. After acquiring a mechanic shop previously owned by Mr. Mitchell Reese, Mr. Williams took the opportunity to establish an auto body work shop. Upon its establishment, Mr. Williams performed all auto body work and two other individuals performed auto mechanical services. Over time, his business began to grow and all of Mr. Williams' sons became an integral part of his now auto body and mechanic shop. Because of the need to expand and the coincidental availability of a much larger auto shop, Mr. Williams moved his shop in 2005. With the expansion of his business, Mr. Williams has a wide variety of clientele, both near and far. His services to the Bolton community have been invaluable over the past 28 years. Currently, he employs an auto body painter and a mechanic. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Terry Williams and Super Auto Shop for its remarkable contribution and undying commitment to provide reliable auto body and mechanic work to the citizens of Bolton and neighboring rural communities.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, Kelvin Williams, Sr., was born in Chicago, Illinois and is the son of Ms. Bobbie J. Williams, a lovely and proud lady. The Sheriffs father, Vick Foster, is deceased. During his school days, Kelvin attended I.T. Montgomery Elementary School and John F. Kennedy Middle School in Mound Bayou; also he attended Ruleville Middle School and Ruleville Central High School in Ruleville. He earned a diploma from Ruleville Central High School in 1986. Sheriff Williams thereafter attended Mississippi Valley State University, where he majored in Criminal Justice. He then moved to St. Louis and continued his education at Webster University, from which he obtained a B.S. Degree in Management in 1994. Sheriff Williams chose law enforcement as a career because he wanted to work in a field that had great job stability and a field that allowed him to make a positive difference on the community. Sheriff Williams is a former Cleveland Police Officer. He was assigned to the Cleveland School District as a School Resource and D.A.R.E. Officer. Prior to returning to Cleveland, Kelvin served with the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department for over 10 years. Kelvin is a former business owner and Investigator for the State of Mississippi. Kelvin took the oath of office as Sheriff of Bolivar County in January, 2012. On a square mile basis, this County is the second largest county in the State of Mississippi. When observing the three largest counties in this State, we see that Yazoo County has 920 square miles, Bolivar County has 876 square miles, and Hinds County has 869 square miles. Alcorn, the smallest county land-wise, has 400 square miles. When comparing the 876 square miles of Bolivar County to the 570 square miles of the average county size in this State, you may correctly say that Sheriff Williams has a lot of ground to roll over. In addition to policing 876 square miles of territory, Sheriff Williams maintains control over the Bolivar County Regional Correctional Facility, which houses 432 inmates. There are 120 employees who assist with the awesome duties of the chief law enforcement officer of Bolivar County. The Sheriff remains steadfastly committed to law enforcement in Bolivar County. In addition to that, he is still committed to the schools, playgrounds and streets where some children hang-out. The Sheriff coaches youths for the Cleveland Park Commission and the United Family Life Center. He serves as volunteer coach for football, basketball, baseball and soccer each year. He has had the opportunity to coach: 8 year olds, 9 year olds, 11 year olds and 12 year olds' baseball teams in the Dixie Youth State Championship games. His passion for the youths and sensitivity to their needs remain at the top of his priority list. He counsels youths and conducts presentations for them, which enhances their participation in wholesome activities, uplifts their aspirations, and encourages them to do the right thing. I suggest that this kind of motivation should be applauded. Sheriff Williams is a member of the Delmar Street Church of Christ, where he serves as a Sunday school Teacher and member of the Finance Committee. He serves on various boards and committees throughout Bolivar County. His recent awards are DARE Officer of the Year for the State of Mississippi; President volunteer Award; community Image Award; Community Service Award; Politician of the Year Award; Cleveland Currents Volunteer of the Year Award, and his most prestigious award-- the ``award'' which was bestowed upon him by the voters of Bolivar is called Sheriff. He has been happily married to Mrs. Glendscene Hall-Williams for 22 years, and they are the parents of three sons: Kelvin Jr., Glenn and Allen. Sheriff Williams and his wife are also proud Godparents of Jaylen Jones. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing an amazing law enforcement officer Sheriff Kelvin Williams for his dedication in protecting and serving the citizens of Bolivar County, Mississippi.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mrs. Khiquita ``Keke'' Young. Khiquita Young is the founder of Independent Survival Living (ISL) and owner of K's Farm and Ranch in Crystal Springs, MS. ISL originated in Jackson, Mississippi. Young presents agriculture methods at church conferences with families and local farmers and ranchers. In 2007 Mrs. Young's mother had a stroke that left her disabled on the left side of her body and troubled in her speech. Khiquita was frustrated to discover the lack of assistance for much needed help not only for her mother, but others as well. This journey led Young to encourage those who are broken spiritually and financially to become self sufficient. It is her desire for the elderly and stroke victims to become independent individuals again. She doesn't want the elderly and stroke victims to depend on others who do not offer genuine help or who neglect disabled people. Young is a visionary who actively pursues change in destiny. The vision she was given in 2007 was to pursue the mission in agriculture, to establish urban gardens and farms for the elderly and stroke victims. Participation gives them some control in their lives allowing them to manage, operate and become profitable to survive. Khiquita is the National Women in Agriculture Association Chairwoman of Southwest River Region in Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mrs. Khiquita ``Keke'' Young for being a visionary and giving back to others.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a rural town minority owned business, Robinson's Grocery, LLC. Robinson's Grocery, LLC opened for business on November 27, 2006 in Bolton, Mississippi. Mr. Pelvia Rene Robinson, owner and operator, saw a need for a small town grocery store that could supply the community with quality products and friendly service without traveling to the neighboring city, which is approximately six to seven miles away. As a lifelong resident of Bolton, Mr. Robinson understood the hardships many in the community faced in acquiring necessities, such as, fresh deli meats, eggs, and cheeses. In addition to meat and dairy products, his store offered hot meals, such as chicken and pork or beef ribs and a variety of household items that many in the community would use on a daily basis. Establishment of Robinson's Grocery rallied the community together, giving the townspeople a sense of community pride knowing that a grocery store was within walking distance, helping to tremendously decrease the need for sometimes weekly trips to neighboring towns for relatively simple household goods and groceries. Robinson's Grocery grew as various vendors solicited commercial space for their wares on the store shelves. Currently, the store is in the process of renovating and restructuring its look. Upon completion, the store will also provide a fresh look and an overall enhanced shopping experience in addition to new products and services. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Pelvia Robinson and Robinson's Grocery, LLC for its remarkable contribution to the thriving rural Bolton community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, this month is August and all this month I rise to honor black farmers. So today, I rise to honor the late Mr. William Byrd of Sunflower County, MS, five miles east of Shaw on Highway 442. He earned the name of Kingfish not because people thought he was a joke but because he became a well-known, respected and honest black business man with money--time frame 1920s to his death. Mr. Byrd did not get a chance to go to school and get a full first through twelfth grade education, no, in fact, he acquired his education by the means of hands-on hard work, life experiences, and the ``Blue Back Webster.'' Like many laboring migrant black families he moved with his father, mother, and siblings around until finally settling in the Mississippi Delta. The many moves with his family was because his dad, Mr. Shep Byrd, was strong willed on not settling his life as a sharecropper but, rather self-employed and own land. So, this transmission of self-employment was passed on to Mr. William Byrd, who in turn passed it on to his children, Lonnie ``LC'' Byrd, Melvin ``Jimbo'' Whiting, Velma ``Red'' Whiting, Thelma ``Black'' Whiting, and Thomas ``TL'' W. Byrd. His son, Thomas recalls his dad, often saying, ``I'll even buy swamp land and make something out of it, if I just get the chance to buy it.'' Little by little Mr. William Byrd would work and save his money never forgetting his dream to buy land. He even found a piece of land he wanted to buy and yes, it was under water and thought to be useless. A useless piece of land back then was called ``deadening'' land because it was swap area and not considered fertile for anything. He would often go there and gaze and dream, and cut down trees wisely clearing the land but telling all those who asked him, ``What are you doing. . .?'' he would say, ``I'm cutting wood for burning.'' Many times, the white men would threaten his life and run him home but he kept going back into the ``deadening'' until eventually he had saved enough money to buy the first of approximately 700 acres of land he would own over the course of his entire life. The journey of this Black Farmer is that by 1940 he was well established with 20 houses or more on his land for all his workers, both black and white, although once word got out that white folks were willing to work for him the other whites would run them off. You see, Mr. Byrd believed in treating people the way he wanted to be treated, regardless of color. By 1955, he had earned enough money and respect as a black business man that he was able to purchase at least ten homes and two restaurants in Shaw, often paying cash each time he made a purchase. By this time, ``money was no problem'' as his son remembered his Dad saying. In fact, the first house he purchased was a big beautiful brick house which was the home of Mr. Thomas McEvans. Mr. McEvans was another rich man in Shaw; he owned a clothing store, tailoring shop, and he took the lead in building the 1st colored school in Shaw, and a member of the Board of Trustees among other influences he held in Shaw. In 1959, part of his dream to build a community for blacks began to materialize. Mr. Byrd purchased a building ten miles west of Shaw on Highway 448 and had it moved to its current location of Hwy 442, five miles east of Shaw. That building became a focal point of Byrd's community. He remolded the building turning it into ``Byrd Grocery,'' and later he added on to the building a restaurant and gas station, changing the name to ``Byrd Grocery and Service Station.'' Byrd's community also had two baseball fields. When Black farmers were losing their farms in the 1960s for various reasons, Mr. Byrd was never affected or worried because he knew he had planned wisely. Long before automation really took over, he was already using tractors to do the work on the farm, getting away from the mule. But when automation fully came into use, his son, Thomas recalls the day his Dad went to the John Deere place and purchased a brand new top of the line, ``John Deere'' cotton picker. And because he was able to pay $25,000 cash for the John Deere, the white salesman surely sold it to him because of the money but after that he refused to have anything else to do with him because it was unheard of and certainly shocking that Mr. Byrd, a black man, was in possession of that amount of cash and no one really knew. You see, his success rested in his belief to ``never spend more than you make, keep folks out of your business, and don't be extravagant because a fool and his money will soon part,'' said, his son, Thomas Lee. In 1975, Mr. Byrd due to health problems turned the family farm over to his oldest son, Lonnie ``LC'' Byrd, who died December 17, 1999. Mr. William ``Kingfish'' Byrd died in July 1980 and is buried in the Strangers Home Cemetery in Shaw, MS beside his wife, Daisy Byrd, who died in August 1981. Thomas Lee recalls his father's last words to him, ``Son, I told LC and I'm telling you never sell the farm. I built this for all my children.'' Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring, Mr. William ``Kingfish'' Byrd, a black farmer from the Mississippi Second Congressional District.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a budding Minority Business in the Mississippi Delta, The Smokehouse Grill in Marks, MS. On January 19, 1971, L.C. and Velma Pride welcomed a bouncing baby boy they named Paul Andrew. Paul was the youngest of the eight Pride children. Paul attended Quitman County School District where he received his high school diploma in 1989. Paul furthered his education at Northwest Community College in 1990 majoring in Computer Programming. He became employed at Sunflower Grocery Store in Senatobia, MS for his first job. He worked there for two years where he learned to become an independent man he is today. He later moved on to a better opportunity at Mood Automotive for eight years where he gained a lot of friends, experience, and skills to be an example for others to follow. Paul purchased his first home in Marks, MS at the age of 21. It was a huge accomplishment that he was extremely proud of. He later began driving trucks for Ozark Motor Lines where he worked two years. During this time, his daughter, the most beautiful girl, was born on April 14, 2002 and he named her, Japarian Marie Pride. Japarian is now an intelligent, outgoing 11 years old who attends South Panola Schools. Driving through Marks, MS in March of 2002, Paul had a taste for barbeque rib tips, but there was no ``Rib Shack'' in Marks. Paul came up with the idea to open a rib shack. ``I asked God to show me the way,'' stated Paul and two months later, the doors of Paul Pride's Smokehouse were opened. Smokehouse, as it is commonly called, has been selling rib tips, chopped barbeque, ribs, wings, and fish ever since. Smokehouse is located at 1075 Martin Luther King Dr. in Marks, MS. Paul stated, ``We have a great location here and we are located in an industrial area on Main St. Since opening, Smokehouse has saturated Quitman, Panola, Coahoma, and Tallahatchie counties.'' Being from Marks, Paul is no stranger to the area. His father was a part of the Marks Police Department for 40 years. Paul's roots run deep in the city of Marks. Eleven years later, he is still on the grill and Smokehouse is still going strong. Paul is now engaged to Stacy Frost who helps him run Smokehouse. Paul is destined to continue running his business and serving great food to those who eat at and support The Smokehouse Grill. Paul has a bright future that is continuing to blossom on a path to greatness. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing The Smokehouse Grill for serving our great community.