Bennie Thompson

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a man whose life's work is centered around cultivating and harvesting the land, Mr. Milton Lewis. Mr. Lewis is considered a masterful farmer by many in the small rural town of Bolton, MS. Dating back to as early as the 1960s, Mr. Lewis farmed approximately 10-15 acres of land alongside his mother, Mrs. Ruthie Bell Lewis, as sharecroppers. Mr. Lewis cultivated a number of crops, such as potatoes, peanuts, sugar cane, and cotton. To fulfill his families sharecropping responsibilities, Mr. Lewis relinquished a portion of his family's harvest to the Gaddis & McLauren Seed and Feed Store, which is located in Bolton, MS. Ultimately, Mr. Lewis diligently farmed his land for approximately 30 years. Today, Mr. Lewis continues to farm a small portion of land near his home, primarily for his enjoyment and close family members. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Milton Lewis for his impeccable cultivator talent.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor a long standing black farmer, Mr. Primus Wheeler. He and his family are residents of Tallahatchie County where generations of Wheeler's have been farming since 1936. The story of the Wheeler family farming does not start with Primus, it started with his Father, Jim Wheeler. Jim started out farming a 40 acre unit rented from the Buford Plantation then later, rented 300 more acres until one day he was financially sound enough to purchase more than 1000 acres of his own. In order to secure his investment, Jim Wheeler invested his life lessons in his sons by teaching them the farming business, what it means to be a black farmer, the importance of having your own money, and family sticking together and staying together. Primus began learning the family farming business as a farm hand, day supervisor, and even bookkeeper until 1948. These skills he held on to, seeing how his father was able to provide a sustainable and prideful life for the family. In 1948 when he decided to marry, Georgia, his current wife of 65 years, he knew he too had to provide for his family. So, Primus along- side his wife, Georgia, began farming their first 40 acres of rented land. They grew cotton, corn, soybeans, livestock, and vegetables. His livestock consisted of 30 to 40 cows and 50-100 hogs. In 1957 they purchased their first piece of land and moved away from the family owned land and farm, ``Wheeler Farm.'' Primus along-side his wife grew their farm to 100 acres, which is still located in the Sharkey Road community between Glendora and Tippo, MS. He remembers his first crop in 1957 as his worst but just as he was taught and had seen by working with his father on the family farm, ``you take the good with the bad and learn from it but keep going to break through. You just have to make more good crops than bad crops in order to survive.'' He was dealing with bad weather and insects. Over time Primus got better being on his own even increasing the farm from the initial 100 acres to 238 acres at one point then up to 800 acres by renting from local retired farmers. He was able to supplement his income by harvesting cotton and soybeans for other farmers. Primus Wheeler, like so many black farmers had challenges that would test the soul and belief of any man. Over the years he dealt with challenges like bad seasons in terms of weather, insects, and certainly government financing for black farmers. For example, he said, more times than not, that he had to lean on hope and prayer that FSA would approve his applications for financing, which often times came in late July or early August. These were emotional and unpredictable times; especially seeing the other farmers planting while he was faces the pitfall of FSA. You see, he relied on this money to purchase seeds and fertilizers. But nevertheless, he withstood them all relying on his father's teachings. So, through it all, Primus and his wife was able to educate 9 children on their small delta farm and unlike him, not one of his children had to skip or quit school to stay home and help work the farm. Primus retired and turned the farm over to his son, Michael, who ran it until the late 1990s. Afterwards, Primus, Jr. gained control of the farm and still runs it today. However, in all cases, Primus himself is still involved in the decision making of the farm advising and mentoring his son and future generations. Hat's off to Mr. Primus Wheeler for hanging in there and maintaining his farm. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring, Mr. Primus Wheeler, 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 unique and well established minority owned business, Magnolia Windshield Repair and Replacement. Magnolia Windshield Repair and Replacement began operation November 1, 2002 in Bolton, Mississippi. There was no office, fax, or landline phone. There was no specific parking lot or driveway to drive a vehicle in for servicing. This dream was birthed with a mobile operation in mind. Mr. Pelvia Robinson, owner and operator since its establishment, created a business that was completely mobile, allowing for him to complete a windshield repair wherever needed. Mr. Robinson realized there was no adequate space within the city limits of Bolton, nor any of the other rural surrounding areas, without having to drive at least 20 miles to Jackson for windshield repair. Because Mr. Robinson was born and raised in Bolton, he felt that this type of business would not only benefit the people of the town and the surrounding rural areas, but it also presented a unique business opportunity for himself as an up and coming entrepreneur. Since its inception, Magnolia Windshield Repair and Replacement has grown from just having private customers to servicing commercial customers, while also acquiring several major contracts. Magnolia Windshield employs one other person to assist in its day to day operation. Even after being in business for nearly 11 years, Magnolia Windshield is still mobile, but its official address and location is 207 Bolton-Brownsville Road, Bolton, Mississippi, at which often times cars are repaired for those customers wanting to bring their vehicles in for immediate repair. In addition to a location, it also has an office, a fax, and a landline telephone. Mr. Robinson accredits his success as being owner of Magnolia Windshield Replacement and Repair first to God, second to his parents, Henry and Ruth Robinson, and thirdly a strong family support. Mr. Pelvia Robinson was born January 11, 1964. He is the last child of 9 siblings. His formal education included elementary education in Bolton, MS and secondary and college education at Hinds Agricultural High School and Hinds Community College, respectively. He is the father of Pelvius Robinson, and grandfather of Pelvius Robinson, Jr. He is married to Paulette Robinson. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Pelvia Robinson and Magnolia Windshield Repair and Replacement for his dedication and service as a minority business owner to the citizens of Bolton and surrounding rural communities.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a hardworking and self motivated man, Mr. Mack H. Shorter. Mr. Shorter, a native of Issaquena County, has always called the Delta his home. He has been a farmer since 1976. Mr. Shorter retired from the U.S. Corps of Engineers as a construction supervisor in 2008 and began farming full time. Farming has been his favorite past time for the last 37 years. During this time he has grown cotton, corn and soybeans. ``I just love to make things grow,'' stated Mr. Shorter. Since retirement he farms about 160 acres of soybeans and raises about 75 to 80 cattle. Mr. Shorter has six children. He and his wife, Hazel, reside in Fitler, Mississippi in Issaquena County and are active members of Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Cary, Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Mack H. Shorter.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a well respected rural town minority owned business, Jackie's Beauty Boutique. Jackie Bailey, originally from Edwards, Mississippi, became inspired to enter the profession of barber/stylist through her early interactions with Ms. Doris Green. Ms. Green was a well-known stylist in the Bolton community who performed a number of services, mainly hot comb presses. Ms. Bailey distinctly remembers watching Ms. Green hot comb press a number of young girls hair and noticing the ease and serenity in which Ms. Green styled hair. Driven by her inspiration, Ms. Bailey enrolled at Utica Junior College in Utica, Mississippi in 1983 in the Barber/Stylist program. After obtaining her degree in 1984, she acquired a job with Apollo Hair Design in 1985, which was located in Jackson, Mississippi. She later resigned in 1986 to take a year hiatus to recover from a car accident. In 1988, an opportunity to co-own her own business presented itself, so she and her cousin, Madge Sherry, opened a beauty salon in Bolton, Mississippi. Her primary clientele were residents of Bolton and neighboring towns. Men, women, and children were serviced in various manners, such as haircuts, shaves, relaxers, and general hair washing. With the presentation of another business opportunity, Ms. Bailey and her cousin separated business ties, allowing for Ms. Bailey to be one of the longest standing Black-owned salons in town. Her professionalism and expertise in barbering and styling has allowed her business to thrive in this rural area. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ms. Jackie Bailey and Jackie's Beauty Boutique for its remarkable contribution and undying commitment to provide professional barbering and stylist services to the citizens of Bolton and neighboring rural communities.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable Entrepreneur, Mr. Clinton D. Williams, who is a resident Cleveland, Mississippi. Mr. Williams was born November 23, 1972 to Clifton L. Williams, Sr. and Dorothy L. Williams of Shaw, Mississippi. He attended and graduated from McEvans Elementary and Shaw High School. Because of his interest in the arts, Clinton enrolled in the Fine Arts Program at Mississippi Valley State University in Itta Bena, Mississippi, where he majored in Fine Arts with emphasis in Graphic Designs and Print Making. He graduated from in 1997 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree. Clinton decided to remain in the Mississippi Delta to assist with the family screen printing business. In 1999, Clinton decided to start his own business, Williams Designs with the determination to take the family business along with his own business to the next level, he and his father worked hard to make sure that they provided quality work with reasonable prices with a fast turnaround time. It was of great importance that their customers understood that they were greatly appreciated by the Williams' family. In 2005 the reigns to the family business were handed over to Clinton. With the responsibility to make sure the family business continued. With over 25 years of experience, Triple C T-Shirts & Williams Designs are continuing to provide great customer service. Today, Clinton oversees all operations from cleaning up to doing artwork, making deliveries, printing, running errands, picking up lunch for his staff and even offering words of encouragement. He is married to Shonda C. Williams and they have one daughter, Justice B. Williams. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing an amazing entrepreneur, Mr. Clinton Williams, for his dedication to entrepreneurialship.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor a long standing black farmer, Mr. Herbert Allen, Sr. of ``Allen Farm''. He and his family are residents of Silver City in Humphreys County, MS, where generations of Allen's have been farming since the 1940s which gives them over 70 years. The story of the Allen family as black farmers includes major setbacks, but they are still in operation today. Grandpa Nathan Allen started with 40 acres of land in an effort to provide a decent living for himself, his wife, and 6 children. After he died, his son Herbert Allen, Sr. began operating the 40-acre farm and grew it into 323 acres. Herbert and his wife, Nomie, raised 9 children on that small and hard-to-come-by income because again the challenges of the black families were real. In fact they raised most of the food they used to feed their family. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, the odds have been great and many: Depression, rainy and dry crop years with little to sometimes no government compensation, floods, bad loans, too little loans, and other unfortunate things but again, through it all they survived. Herbert Allen, Sr. operated the farm for over 50 years until his death in 2006, then Herbert, Jr. and his brother, Freddie, took over the operation. Although the two brothers managed the daily affairs, it was still a family affair involving all the siblings. There are several spinoff businesses that have been developed: Allen Recycling (Canton and Yazoo City, MS) Allen Heating and Air (Gulfport, MS), and Allen Cattle Ranch (Silver City, MS). Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring, Mr. Herbert Allen, Sr., a black farmer from the Mississippi's Second Congressional District.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable Entrepreneur, Mr. Cammie Earl Hutcherson. Cammie Hutcherson is a life-long resident of Jefferson County, Mississippi. He has developed the pride of helping his community in any way that he can. As a young adult, his first business was the H & H Farm, which is located on Fountain Road in Fayette. He basically raised cattle and horses. The farm is still operational at this time. Later, Mr. Hutcherson went into business as Cammie's Wrecker Service, a venture he has worked diligently in for the past 20 years. This business has grown and is operational with four vehicles. His business is known for offering affordable, reliable and courteous services to residents in Jefferson County and surrounding counties. In 2007, Mr. Hutcherson opened a mini storage facility which has been an asset to many residents in Jefferson County. The storage has 90 rental units. Presently, Mr. Hutcherson is working to open a restaurant/grill in Jefferson County. It will be named, ``Mur's Kitchen.'' The name is in memory of his late mother, Mrs. Willie Lee Hutcherson. Mr. Hutcherson appreciates the success he has received from patrons in Jefferson County and hopes that the relationship will continue. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing an aggressive entrepreneur, Mr. Cammie Earl Hutcherson, for his dedication to serving the surrounding area of Jefferson County, Mississippi.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a woman who made her life's wages from cultivating and harvesting the land on which her family lived, Mrs. Ocey Richmond. Mrs. Ocey Richmond was a sharecropper in Bolton, Mississippi. Dating back to as early as the 1950s, Mrs. Richmond farmed an area of about 15-20 acres of land, which was located not far from Bolton-Brownsville Road. Mrs. Richmond cultivated a number of crops, such as sweet potatoes, corn, peanuts, numerous other vegetables, and cotton. As a sharecropper, a portion of her harvest was payment for her land and home, which was leased to her through the white-owned Gaddis & McLauren Seed and Feed Store. Not only were they able to sell their harvested crops, but they were also able to feed their families, making great use of their land. Mrs. Richmond enlisted the help of other family members in assisting with the daily demands of cultivating and harvesting acres of land. Other members of her family, such as Deanna Hill and Clarence Richmond assisted her, helping to meet the demands and expectations of her sharecropping responsibilities. By 1973, Mrs. Richmond ceased cultivating the land and moved from her leased property to another area within the Bolton community. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mrs. Ocey Richmond for her impeccable cultivator talent.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Walter L. Ware who is a remarkable public servant, Sunday School Teacher, and laborer for the church. Mr. Walter L. Ware was born in Carroll County, Mississippi on September 19, 1943 to the late Granville and Myrtle Ruth Ware. To this union ten children were born, four girls and six boys. In 1983, his father passed away. Recently, his mother was honored by her family when she turned the young age of 98 on April 21, 2013. Mr. Ware attended Browning Elementary School. After elementary school, he attended and graduated from Amanda Elzy High School. Upon graduating from Amanda Elzy, Walter spent his summers up North working so that he could make some money to pay for his college education. He attended Coahoma Community College before transferring to Alcorn State University. At Alcorn he obtained his Bachelor's Degree. Later, he would obtain a Master's Degree from Mississippi Valley State University. Mr. Ware is a very well known respected member of the Browning Community where he grew up and still lives. It is here, where in 1972, he began to raise cattle on over 200 acres of land. In 1999 he began to grow milo and soybeans. He served as board member from 1983-1984 for the Mississippi Action for Progress. He has received such awards as Teacher of the Year for the Leflore County School District, where he served as Social Studies teacher for 29 years before retiring. He has continued to drive the bus for the district for over 40 years. In 1984 he received an Outstanding Service to the Community Award. Later in 1998 the United States Department of Agriculture would honor him with a Certificate of Appreciation for his work in agriculture. He is married to Earlean Maxwell. Together they are the proud parents of three sons and one daughter.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable public servant, Mrs. Cathy Kimbrough. Mrs. Kimbrough has served adults and children in numerous capacities. Some of the service area include: reading instructor in Germany, General College reading instructor at Alcorn State University, and self-contained and inclusion teacher in the Attala County School District. Mrs. Kimbrough has served her community as local president of the Attala County Association of Educators. Mrs. Kimbrough has also served on the Board of Directors for the Boys' and Girls' Club in Kosciusko/ Attala County. Mrs. Kimbrough is a member of the following organizations: Order of the Eastern Star, National Council of Negro Women, and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. She is also a member of Pleasant Hill M.B. Church, pastored by Rev. Osie C. Grays. Mrs. Kimbrough earned her bachelor's and master's degrees from Jackson State University. She was a member of the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society and the Alpha Beta Alpha Library Science Fraternity. She is married to Mr. Henry Kimbrough. She has four children: Jerry Jr. (Erica), Essence Crystal (Theodore), Sonja Merrie', and Joyanne' Faith; six grandchildren--Deontrez Jerrick, Jersia, Kamiah, Kayla and Shytianna. She enjoys creating song lyrics, writing poetry, reading and fishing. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mrs. Cathy Kimbrough for her dedication to serving others in Attala County.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor one of baseball's greatest contributors to the game, Mr. George ``Boomer'' Scott. His attitude and stature did determine his altitude. Mr. George ``Boomer'' Scott knew pick'n cotton was not all he could do. The Jim Crow south prepared him for the challenges and opportunities that would be forthcoming. And his ability to tackle any task and meet any challenge was a ``God given talent.'' Many wanted him, the University of Oklahoma, University of California in Los Angeles, Michigan State University, and Jackson State University. In May 1962, Red Sox scout Ed Scott, recognized that God given talent and signed George ``Boomer'' Scott with the Boston Red Sox and he reported to the minor leagues training camp. This was during the time in which blacks did not receive sign-on bonuses but were eager to play the game. His dream to play in the major league following in the footsteps of his ideal, Willie Mays, came in 1965 when he made the Red Sox roster and opened the season on third base. During his career in major league baseball, George eventually met Willie Mays and played against him in several games. Mr. George ``Boomer'' Scott helped to break many barriers in major league baseball and set his own records to be beat. At his first rookie camp his talent was appreciated but not his color. Nevertheless, his love for the sport and determination to not return to Mississippi the same kept George in the race. He was not allowed to have the same eating and sleeping arrangements as his white baseball team mates. In 1966, he hit his first major league home run against the Detroit Tigers; while also earning the reputation as one of the greatest defensive first baseman to ever play in the league. Aside from that, he hit a homerun against Whitey Ford that is remembered as one of the longest homeruns in baseball history with acknowledgements coming from some of baseballs greatest like Mickey Mantle. In that same year, 1966, George was considered as one of the leagues batting leaders, hitting .330 earning him a slot behind Tony Oliva and Baltimore Robinson boys, Frank and Brooks. As a rookie his career highs and some of the best games ever played in baseball slated George to be ``Rookie of the Year'' by many of his colleagues. Baseball Hall of Famer, Rick Ferrell said, ``In all my years in baseball I have never seen a player have a debut like Scott. He's amazing.'' In 1971 he was traded to the Milwaukee Brewer's and that became his career year when he won his seventh Gold Glove and recognized as Milwaukee's MVP. But change came in 1978 when George's career slowed down due to injuries. His career began to experience continuous highs and lows. Starting in 1979, he was traded to Kansas City and shortly afterwards to the New York Yankees, the Texas Rangers, and in 1980 to the Mexican League. A career decision was inevitable, so George decided to retire from major league baseball but, not his love and dedication to the game. George held many managerial positions, in both the Mexican League and the Independent League with such teams as Saskatoon Riot, Massachusetts Mad Dogs, and Rio Grande Valley White Wings of the Texas-Louisiana League. From 1991 to 1996, George coached at Rothbury Community College. He finished his managing career in baseball with the Berkshire Black Bears of the Northern League in 2002. In 2006, George was inducted into the Red Sox Hall of Fame and the Mississippi Hall of Fame. Sure, career lows are expected just as careers highs are preferred, but both contributed to him having a great baseball career. We are thankful however, that his career highs out- numbered his career lows helping George to earn the reputation bestowed upon him by his baseball colleagues, as one of the best in many positions of the game. Mr. George ``Boomer'' Scott broke barriers and set records; he had three sons of which he was very proud, often boasting about them to friends and colleagues. Dion, his oldest played professional baseball but is currently a principal in the Atlanta Public School District. George, III is in real estate in New Bedford, MA. His youngest son, Brian, played college baseball for Mississippi Delta Community College and had a batting high of over .400 in 2006 breaking his Dads record of .330 in 1966. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. George ``Boomer'' Scott, one of baseball's greatest players; I am proud that he was a product of the Mississippi Second Congressional District. Rest in peace Boomer.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor a long standing black farmer, Mr. Herbert Allen, Sr. of ``Allen Farm''. He and his family are residents of Silver City in Humphreys County, MS where generations of Allens have been farming since the 1940s, which gives them over 70 years. The story of the Allen family as black farmers includes major setbacks, but they are still in operation today. Grandpa Nathan Allen started with 40 acres of land in an effort to provide a decent living for himself, his wife, and 6 children. After he died, his son Herbert Allen, Sr. began operating the 40-acre farm and grew it into 323 acres. Herbert and his wife, Nomie, raised 9 children on that small and hard to come by income because again the challenges of the black families were real. In fact they raised most of the food they used to feed their family. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, the odds have been great and many: Depression, rainy and dry crop years with little to sometimes no government compensation, floods, bad loans, too little loans, and other unfortunate things, but again, through it all they survived. Herbert Allen, Sr. operated the farm for over 50 years until his death in 2006, then Herbert, Jr. and his brother, Freddie, took over the operation. Although the two brothers managed the daily affairs, it was still a family affair involving all the siblings. There are several spinoff businesses that have been developed: Allen Recycling (Canton and Yazoo City, MS), Allen Heating and Air (Gulfport, MS), and Allen Cattle Ranch (Silver City, MS). Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Mr. Herbert Allen, Sr., a black farmer from Mississippi's Second Congressional District.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a prodigal farmer, Frank Wilbourn. Mr. Wilbourn was born and raised in Marks, MS. He is 71 years old and has the ageless quality of someone with natural wisdom and a generous spirit. At age 22, he took the road north for the promise of better paying jobs. After returning home from 23 years of working in the steels mills of Milwaukee, he bought his father's farm and began life as one of the few local organic produce growers and the only local organic produce seller in the town. This land was purchased by his parents in 1939. Mr. Wilbourn spends part of his days below a shade tree besides the Fred's Dollars Store parking lot. His truck bed overflows with cabbage, string beans, bundles of kale, bags of okra, and baskets of tomatoes and peppers. Mr. Wilbourn grows all of the produce himself on a 5-acre fraction of his 100-acre farm that's nearby. On his property, two high tunnels stand in stark contrast to the surrounding straight lines of pines and the row crops of area farms. Mr. Wilbourn is a part of the Delta Fresh Family and was inspired by his wisdom and love for his community. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Frank Wilbourn for his dedication in being a remarkable farmer.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Louis Williams, Jr. Mr. Williams, Jr., a native of Yazoo City, Mississippi, was born September, 25, 1945 to Inell Martin and Louis Williams, Sr. Mr. Williams attended and graduated from Yazoo Training School and Jackson State University. He went to work for the Post Office in 1973, where he worked for 28 years. Mr. Williams started a one man operation farm in 1997 after he bought a horse and two acre plots to house his horse. Unfortunately, he later learned the horse died prior to him moving his horse to its new home. Currently, he owns and farms 77 acres of peas, corn, watermelon and okra that he sales at Wal-Mart. He also raises chickens and rabbits. He plans to leave the farm to his children and grandchildren. Mr. Williams is married to Patricia Williams and to that union they have three children: Gabriel, Rodney and Deidra. He is a member of Tulane Baptist Church and Mr. Williams enjoys working in political campaigns.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor two men who were highly motivated entrepreneurs who made their life's wages from cultivating and harvesting the land on which their families lived on: Mr. John Grenada and Mr. Samuel Grenada. John and Samuel Grenada were well known farmers within the Mount Olive community in Bolton, Mississippi. Dating back to as early as the 1950s, the Grenadas farmed an area of about 20-30 acres of land, which was located not far from Northside Drive. The Grenadas cultivated a number of crops, such as cotton, white potatoes, corn and butter beans. In addition to crops, the Grenadas also raised livestock, such as turkeys and geese. All throughout rural Hinds county, the Grenadas supported their family financially through selling their crops and livestock throughout the various harvesting seasons as roadside vendors. Not only were they able to sell their harvested crops, but they were also able to feed their families, making great use of their land. The Grenadas were dedicated, talented farmers who mastered the craft of cultivating the land for nearly 40 years. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. John and Samuel Grenada for their impeccable cultivator talent.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a man who made his life's wages from cultivating and harvesting the land to financially support his family, Mr. Leon Cheatham. Mr. Cheatham was considered a masterful farmer by many in the Lyons Quarter community in Bolton, MS. Dating back to as early as the 1960s, Mr. Cheatham farmed approximately 21 acres of land, which was located at 2036 Lyons Road. Mr. Cheatham cultivated a number of crops, such as sweet potatoes, corn, sugar cane, watermelons, numerous other vegetables, and cotton. In addition to crops, Mr. Cheatham also bred and raised cattle and swine, all of which were used to help feed his family. He oftentimes sold the sugar cane crops throughout rural Hinds County as a roadside vendor, while the cattle and swine he raised were sold at auctions in Jackson and Canton. Ultimately, Mr. Cheatham diligently farmed his land for approximately 25 years. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Leon Cheatham for his impeccable cultivator talent.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable person, Mrs. Joe Ann Mister-Thomas, who is a native of Grenada, Mississippi. She currently resides in Jackson, Mississippi. Mrs. Thomas helps maintain her family farms in both Grenada and Calhoun Counties. Her farms specialize in cattle and vegetable crops. Farming has been her passion for the past thirteen and a half years. Mrs. Thomas specializes in the production of greens, peas, peppers and tomatoes. She enjoys increased crop production and quality with the use of high tunnels in her operation. Mrs. Thomas is a child advocate and works with several youth organizations including Grenada County 4-H as Volunteer Leader, Hinds County 4-H Leader and Girls Making a Change (GMAC). These organizations are focusing on healthy families. Mrs. Thomas is community driven and has been instrumental in feeding the homeless in her area from her garden production. The youth actively assist with this community service project, teaching them sustainability and how to help and care for others. Mrs. Thomas serves as NWIAA Mississippi Hills Region Chairwoman. Her chapter includes Grenada and Calhoun Counties. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mrs. Joe Ann Mister-Thomas, for her dedication to serving others.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a hardworking and self motivated 65 year old black farmer, John T. Hart, who just keeps on going. Mr. John T. Hart, a native of Holmes County, Mississippi, has been a farmer most of his life, with the exception of some years that he lived in Chicago. He left Mississippi, a farmer and relocated back to Mississippi approximately four decades ago. If it was possible, one might say that farming is in his DNA. He is just that passionate about the farming industry. His heart for farming stems from his late father, Harrison B. (HB) Hart, who was one of the largest African-American farmers in Holmes County, even during struggling times for farmers. John Hart and several of his siblings helped their father to build the legacy. Today, Mr. Hart still carries on his father's legacy through a successful farming business of his own. One of his brothers also has a thriving farming business. To work from before sun up to pitch black dark is the norm for this hill farmer, who has also farmed hundreds of acres in the Mississippi Delta. Cotton, corn and soybeans have mainly been his crops of choice over the years. This year, just for fun, he has added 20 acres of ``delicious'' watermelons that have become in popular demand by local and area consumers and grocery businesses. Just like other industries, the farming business for Mr. Hart and others have had its share of blows. In a November 22, 2009 New York Times article by Shaila Dewan titled, ``In Mississippi Delta, a Promising Summer Washed Away by the Fall,'' Mr. Hart was one of the featured farmers interviewed for the article about continuous rain that had damaged farm crops that year for farmers in Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, eastern Arkansas, and parts of Louisiana. ``You just keep going,'' Hart is quoted saying in the article. Mr. Hart is also a cattle rancher. Yes, the man who has turned dirt for decades also raises cattle. He owns a herd of cattle from good stock. How does he do it all with only the help of two farm hands? Only God knows. Although the Mississippi farming business has seen its share of ups and downs, Mr. Hart still remains steadfast to his passion even though at 65 he could be sitting on the beautiful front porch of their ranch house with his wife, Prince Ella Edwards Hart, of 44 years, looking out over the horizon of land God has blessed them with. Mr. Hart is a graduate of Tchula Attendance Center (now, S.V. Marshall High School). He and his wife, a retiree in the medical arena, have three adult children and three grandchildren. Will this be the year Mr. Hart brings all of his farm's heavy equipment out of the fields for good, recline in that chair beside his devoted wife and friends on that front porch? Who knows? Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. John T. Hart for his impeccable dedication and endurance of successful farming.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable public servant, Mrs. Maude L. Williams Ballou, who was born in Fairhope, Alabama, and raised in Mobile. She received a Bachelor of Science in business administration in 1947 from Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. After marrying music instructor, Leonard Ballou, she and her husband relocated to Montgomery, Alabama in 1952. Mrs. Ballou met Jo Ann Robinson before the start of the bus boycott and talked with her about how to obtain better conditions for blacks in Montogmery. After Martin Luther King's election as president of the Montgomery Improvement Association (MIA) at the start of the Montgomery bus boycott, Maude Ballou became his personal secretary. After becoming King's secretary at the MIA, Mrs. Ballou helped coordinate carpools during the boycott. She often responded on King's behalf to his correspondence. Mrs. Ballou accompanied Dr. King when he moved to Atlanta in 1960, staying with the King family and assisting him in establishing his office at the Southern Christian Leadership Conference headquarters there. Mrs. Ballou left that summer to rejoin her family in Peterburg, Virginia, where her husband had accepted a position at Virginia State College. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mrs. Maude L. Ballou for her dedication to serving others.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a hardworking and self motivated black farmer, Mr. Jimmy Dixon, who was born on June 12, 1953 to the late Colie and Anna Mae Dixon. Mr. Jimmy Dixon was the 6th child of 12 children, a native of Copiah County, Mississippi and was born and raised on the farm. Mr. Jimmy Dixon is passionate about the farming industry. His heart for farming stems from his late father, Mr. Colic Dixon, Sr. Even during struggling times for farmers, he and several of his siblings helped their father to build the legacy to raise cattle and harvest hay and plant corn, watermelons, okra, peas, sweet potatoes and other produce. They worked hard to acquire land and equipment. Together they owned over 300 acres of land. Mr. Dixon went to Brushy Creek Attendance Center, an all black school and attended Holtzclaw High School and graduated from Crystal Springs High School, the first year they segregated in 1971. He joined the U.S. Army in 1979 and became a Military Policeman. He went to the conflict in the Persian Gulf in 1990 until 1991 and served in the Gulf War, receiving an Accommodation Medal Award in 1991 and retired in 1992. Mr. Dixon is married to Marlene and they have three boys and one girl along with four grandchildren. He and his family attends Temple of Yah Hebrew Israelite Assembly in Terry, Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Jimmy Dixon for his dedication and endurance of successful farming.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mrs. Thelma Brown-James, who is a remarkable Unsung Hero. Mrs. Thelma Brown-James was born on April 29, 1955 in Mound Bayou, Mississippi to the late James and Lora Brown. She is the youngest of three girls and four boys. Mrs. Brown received her education in the Mound Bayou School District at I.T.M. Elementary School and in 1973 graduated from John F. Kennedy High School. Also, in 1973 she married her high school sweetheart, Mr. Jessie James, and they were blessed with six bundles of joy: Teresa, Jessie Jr., Robby, Lashay, Lakesha and the late Lamar. Mrs. Brown was employed with Baxter's Travenol in Cleveland, Mississippi for 18 years. After leaving Baxter's she furthered her education in the medical field and earned numerous professional certifications. She worked as a nurses' assistant and home health nurse for several medical agencies within the Mississippi Delta. Mrs. Brown is a faithful member of Fresh Encounter Ministry in Renova, Mississippi where she volunteers with various auxiliaries. Being inspired by God, in January 2013 she opened the Goshen Event Center in Drew, Mississippi to carter to the needs of the children, and offer other activities to enhance the lives of the citizens of Drew and the surrounding areas. Her dedication to the service of others has made her an asset within and outside of her community. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing an unsung hero, Mrs. Thelma Brown-James, for her dedication to serving others.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable funeral home, Woolf Funeral Home. Woolf Funeral Home was established in 1940 by Henry Woolf in Tunica, Mississippi. After opening in Tunica and his determination and desire to offer outstanding service to the bereaved, he opened a funeral home in Clarksdale, Mississippi. After the passing of Mr. Henry Woolf in 1958, Woolf Funeral Homes was purchased by Mr. Ben Brown who continued on the legacy of Mr. Woolf. In 1978 Mr. Brown passed and his son, Willie A. Brown, a retired United States Air Force veteran and licensed funeral director, became owner. Mr. Willie Brown's vision to make sure every family they serviced was special and deserved the best hours of their bereavement. He has, throughout the years, continued the establishment in the community. Woolf Funeral Home contributes and participates in numerous community and charitable organizations. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Woolf Funeral Home for their dedication in being an outstanding establishment in the cities of Clarksdale and Tunica and the Counties of Coahoma and Tunica, Mississippi.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Amy C. Perkins, who is a remarkable teacher and extraordinary public servant. Ms. Perkins was born in Leflore County, MS on January 31, 1976 to Laura Perkins, a single mother who did not know the importance of education. Education was never really emphasized to her and her six siblings. Ms. Perkins older siblings were often taken out of school by their mother to work in the fields. As a child, Ms. Perkins was not fascinated by learning because it was never a requirement in her household. On the verge of dropping out, she was inspired by her 6th grade teacher. From that point on she knew that she wanted to inspire students the way that her teacher inspired her. Ms. Perkins attended Amanda Elzy High School in Greenwood, MS. There she earned her high school diploma and moved on to her next level of education. She obtained her first teaching job at Leflore County Elementary School where she worked as an assistant for a 2nd grade teacher for four years. During that time she helped empower young students while working to become a fully certified teacher for the state of Mississippi. In 2009, she started teaching as a certified teacher at Woolfolk Middle School in Yazoo City, Mississippi. Even though her job was an hour away, she felt that it was worth the drive. She had an opportunity to teach and inspire. After two years, she got an offer to teach closer to home at Davis Elementary in Greenwood, MS. There she is currently a fourth grade Math Teacher. With her fun and non-traditional teaching style, she empowers students to enjoy learning. She requests that the lowest achieving students be challenged to improve their state assessment scores. So far, this method has been a success. As an employee of the Greenwood Public School District, Ms. Perkins has received numerous awards. These awards include: Teacher of the Month 2012, a monetary incentive for preparing students for state assessment 2011; Teaching Parent of the Year; and also received an additional monetary incentive for hard work in the 2011-2012 school year. During that year she had only one out of eighty students to score below state standards on a state assessment in mathematics. Ms. Perkins continues to inspire students both in and out of the classroom. She volunteers as a cheerleading coach for the Davis Elementary Cheer Squad. She strives to instill in them the principles of hard work, dedication, character, and community service. Ms. Perkins has overcome adversity and set a wonderful example for her two children. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing a Teacher Extraordinaire, Ms. Amy C. Perkins for her dedication to serving others and giving back to the African American community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor one of the most intact historic properties associated with the growth and development of the African-American community in the historic Vicksburg and Warren County, Mississippi, area. Beulah Cemetery was established in 1884 by the Vicksburg Tabernacle #19 Independent Order of Brothers and Sisters of Love and Charity, who bought the land from Harvey and Lucy Shannon for $1,000. It originally encompassed 52 acres; however, through sales and transfers to the National Park Service and individuals, the entire property is now 14.5 acres. From its establishment in 1884 until the 1940's, the cemetery was the most important cemetery for Vicksburg-area African Americans and remains today a visible landmark for the black community. Blacks were buried in churchyards or on private land until Beulah Cemetery became the main cemetery for Vicksburg-area African Americans. The African American community has historically constituted about half of Vicksburg's population. Beulah provides significant historical information about this important group of citizens through its gravestones. So few historic resources concerning the area of the African American community remains therefore it's increasing the significance of Beulah Cemetery. The cemetery is the final resting place for members of the most prominent black families in Vicksburg, including ancestors of almost every native black in the Vicksburg area. The cemetery documents the existence of generations of people for whom otherwise there might be no surviving material available. Among the prominent people buried at Beulah are the founders of the black funeral homes (Jeffersons/Dillons); G. M. McIntyre, principal of Cherry Street School and school namesake; Robert Banks Marshall, the city's first black postal employee; and William Tillmon Jones, Grand Chancellor of the Knights of Pythias, 1889-1906. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the Beulah Cemetery as they strive to preserve African American history in the Vicksburg and Warren County, Mississippi, area.