Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable servant, Lillie Blackmon Sanders.

Lillie Blackmon Sanders grew up on a farm in the small community of Black Hawk, Mississippi. She attended the Carroll County Public Schools, graduating from Vaiden High School. Lillie is one of 11 children of the late Percy and Leola Blackmon. She is married to Attorney Everett Sanders and is the proud mother of Aisha and Keishia Sanders.

Lillie attended Alcorn State University, where she became a trailblazer as the first female president of the Student Government Association. She was initiated into the Gamma Phi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. in the fall of 1973. After graduating from Alcorn, Lillie enrolled at the University of Mississippi College of Law, where she received her Juris Doctor degree. She began her legal career as an attorney with Southwest Mississippi Legal Services, which led her to Natchez, Mississippi, where she has made her home for the past 44 years.

Lillie was recognized by Alpha Kappa Alpha as one of the ``Unforgettable and Unsung Sorors of the Civil Rights Movement.'' She became the first female Circuit Court Judge in the state of Mississippi and also started a Drug Court, which affords individuals a second change. She retired in 2022 but holds Senior Judge status to hear special cases around the state.

Lillie is a member of Zion Chapel AME Church, where she serves on the Steward Board. She is also a member of the NAACP, Mississippi Bar Association, Magnolia Bar Association, Mississippi Judiciary Advisory Study Committee, and the Mississippi Access to Justice Commission, and she has been the recipient of many awards.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Natchez Retired Judge Lillie Blackmon Sanders for her actions and achievements in the Natchez, Mississippi community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an outstanding Mississippian, Mr. Daryl Richards, Jr., for his dedication, leadership, and service to the elders of the Mississippi Delta as the Area Agency on Aging (AAA) Director for the South Delta Planning and Development District (SDPDD).

Mr. Richards was born and raised in Greenville, the heart of the Mississippi Delta. A proud graduate of Greenville-Weston High School, Class of 2010, he went on to attend the University of Mississippi, where he earned dual degrees in Political Science and Business Administration. He later pursued graduate studies at Belhaven University, earning a Master of Business Administration.

During his junior year of college, Mr. Richards began an internship with the SDPDD. A few years later, after gaining management experience in the private sector, he was called back to serve his community. In 2019, at the age of 27, he was appointed as Director--becoming the youngest AAA Director in both the history of the District and the State of Mississippi.

In this role, Mr. Richards has embraced his calling to be a voice for Mississippi's elderly population. Under his leadership, the Agency provides critical services to seniors and their families across thirty- five municipalities and six counties. These include congregate meal sites, home-delivered meals, homemaker services, respite care, legal assistance, ombudsman services, adult day care, State Health Insurance Assistance, access to care programs, preventative health classes, elder abuse prevention, and a range of information and referral resources. Through these efforts, Mr. Richards and his team ensure that the most vulnerable members of our communities are not forgotten.

Mr. Richards is inspired by the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., ``What are you doing for others?'' This guiding principle motivates him daily to advocate for those who cannot

advocate for themselves. His commitment reflects not only in his professional service but also in his extensive community involvement. He is actively engaged with Walking in Love Ministries, has served as Chairman of the Community Foundation of Washington County, is Treasurer of 100 Black Men of the Mississippi Delta, Presidential Director of Delta Council, a board member of the Washington County United Way, a Mississippi Aging TAC Member, and a board member of the Three Rivers CDE Advisory Board.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Mr. Daryl Richards, Jr., for his tireless service to the people of the Mississippi Delta. He stands as a shining example of leadership, compassion, and commitment, and he continues to make a lasting difference in the lives of our elders and their families.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Carl Lucas--a dedicated educational leader, proud native of Hollandale, Mississippi, and tireless advocate for student achievement and equity in education.

Mr. Lucas began his career as a secondary mathematics teacher, where he created a classroom culture of rigor and relevance. His students consistently demonstrated significant growth on state assessments, earning him recognition for narrowing achievement gaps and instilling academic discipline.

As Principal of Simmons High School, Mr. Lucas set a bold goal of earning a B rating. Through systems that raised expectations, improved instruction, and increased student accountability, he led the school to measurable gains in academic performance, graduation rates, and climate.

In addition to school leadership, Mr. Lucas developed and expanded transformative academic programs, including:

Dual Enrollment & Career Pathways with Mississippi Delta Community College and Tougaloo College.

ACT Prep Initiatives, including summer boot camps and classroom integration.

Credit Recovery & Summer Learning, led by certified teachers.

Middle College Readiness Programs for college and career acceleration.

Student Support Systems involving mentoring and behavior contracts.

Mr. Lucas holds a Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics and a Master's Degree from Mississippi Valley State University, as well as an Education Specialist Degree from Belhaven University.

He is married to his high school sweetheart, Monet Dye-Lucas, and together they are the proud parents of Carl'Kaisha, Carl Jr., Carlnell, and Carlandria.

Mr. Lucas leads with heart, vision, and integrity. He believes every child deserves access to a quality education and the opportunity to thrive. His life's work reflects that belief, right in the community that raised him.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Carl Lucas for his unwavering service to education and his lasting impact on the Mississippi Delta.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the remarkable contributions of Ms. Taylor ``Tay Cheese'' Akharume--a dynamic performer, visionary artist, and Mississippi native whose vibrant talent and trailblazing spirit have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.

Born in the heart of Mississippi, Tay Cheesy has risen through the ranks not by following the well-worn paths of the industry, but by forging her own. With deep roots in cities like Nashville, Baton Rouge, Memphis, and Jackson, each place has shaped and enriched her creative expression, culminating in a signature style that is bold, authentic, and electrifying.

Tay Cheesy's journey is one of grit, vision, and fearless determination. While others waited for opportunity, she created her own--eschewing traditional industry gatekeepers to build a name for herself on her own terms. Her raw talent and relentless work ethic have earned her coveted collaborations with legendary artists such as Willie Clayton, Uncle Luke, Grammy Award-winner Jon Batiste, West Love, and Cupid.

Yet, Tay Cheesy is more than just a performer. She is a choreographer, creative director, motivational speaker, and cultural ambassador whose work uplifts and inspires. Her performances are not simply artistic displays; they are storytelling in motion--celebrations of resilience, joy, and empowerment. With each step, she moves audiences and amplifies the voices of those too often left unheard.

In an industry that often demands conformity, Tay Cheesy stands out as a beacon of authenticity. Her journey speaks to the power of self- belief and the impact of creating space for others to shine. Through her creativity and purpose-driven leadership, she continues to pave the way for future generations of artists to dream beyond boundaries.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Taylor ``Tay Cheese'' Akharume for her outstanding contributions to the arts, her unwavering dedication to her craft, and her enduring commitment to representing Mississippi with brilliance, pride, and purpose.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commend an outstanding young Mississippian, Seaman Jkharia Jefferson, for her admirable service in the United States Navy.

A native of Yazoo City, Mississippi, Seaman Jefferson serves aboard the USS John C. Stennis, a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier currently operating out of Newport News, Virginia. As one of the largest warships in the world, the John C. Stennis represents the strength, commitment, and global reach of America's naval power--and Seaman Jefferson is proudly contributing to that mission.

A 2024 graduate of Yazoo City High School, Seaman Jefferson exemplifies the values of discipline, dedication, and resilience instilled by her community. Reflecting on her journey, she credits her mentors and family--particularly her mother, Koashecal, and mentors Col. Robert A. Avery (Ret.) and Charles Weathersby--for shaping her mindset and encouraging her pursuit of a career in the military.

The Navy is celebrating its 250th birthday this year, marking a quarter-millennium of steadfast service to our Nation and commitment to the security of maritime commerce and freedom of navigation. With 90 percent of global commerce moving by sea, and our digital infrastructure depending on secure undersea cables, our Navy's mission has never been more critical.

Aircraft carriers like the John C. Stennis are self-contained mobile airports, capable of deploying with unmatched speed, endurance, and combat capability. They are often the first to respond to crises, deliver humanitarian aid, and project U.S. presence across the globe.

Seaman Jefferson's story is a testament to courage and perseverance. ``My proudest accomplishment so far is getting through boot camp,'' she said. ``Getting through those 10 weeks and coming out stronger is something I am very proud of.'' As a woman in a male-dominated field, she also recognizes the importance of representation and empowerment, saying, ``I hope I can show other females they can do it just as well as any man can.''

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Seaman Jkharia Jefferson. Her determination, service, and example represent the very best of Mississippi and the United States Navy. We thank her for her service and wish her continued success as she advances in her military career.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a tenacious, loyal, and self-motivated leader--Mrs. Doris Haywood- Bridgett--a pillar of the Shelby, Mississippi, community and a devoted servant to Bolivar County for nearly a century.

Born in 1935 in Boyle, Mississippi, Mrs. Haywood-Bridgett recently celebrated her 90th birthday. A lifelong resident of Shelby, she remains an active and driving force in her community. Her tireless commitment and continued contributions serve as an inspiration to all.

Mrs. Haywood-Bridgett, alongside her late husband, Pastor Will Bridgett, Jr., made history in Shelby as the first African American business owners in town, opening Bridgett Bakery Shop. A licensed beautician since the late 1960's, she has been serving her loyal clients for decades and has yet to fully retire. In addition to her professional work, she operated an in-home daycare in the 1970's and 1980's and served as Site Manager for the Bolivar County Community Action Agency in Cleveland, Mississippi.

Throughout her life, Mrs. Haywood-Bridgett has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to children and families. Whether through her daycare, her beautician chair, or simply her open-door policy for neighborhood children seeking help with homework, she has poured love, wisdom, and guidance into generations.

Her service to the community extends beyond her personal and professional life. She served as Vice President of the Shelby Chamber of Commerce for over a decade, spearheading efforts to remove blighted properties, improve public spaces, and revitalize local infrastructure. Known affectionately as ``the neighborhood Mother,'' her home has always been a safe haven, a place of encouragement and support.

With the election of a new city administration, Mrs. Haywood-Bridgett remains hopeful and engaged in shaping a brighter future for Shelby. Her unwavering faith in God keeps her grounded and strong, as she continues to pray for the strength to do what needs to be done.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and commend Mrs. Doris Haywood- Bridgett--for a lifetime of service, leadership, and enduring commitment to the people of Shelby and Bolivar County, Mississippi. Her story is a living testament to the impact of a single life dedicated to service, and her legacy will echo for generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life, legacy, and voice of a Mississippi treasure--Mosie ``Mama'' Burks, gospel music legend and beloved member of the world-renowned Mississippi Mass Choir. Born on June 17, 1933, in Forest, Mississippi, Mama Burks was one of ten children in a large migrant farming family. Her roots were humble, her work ethic unshakeable, and her faith unmovable.

As a child laboring in the cotton fields under the scorching Mississippi sun, she experienced the hardship and perseverance that would later define her voice and testimony. Delivered from field work after suffering from heat exhaustion, Mama Burks went on to serve her community in numerous ways, including a 24-year career in social work at Jackson State University. But it was her powerful, soul-stirring voice and unwavering testimony of God's grace that would make her a household name in gospel music.

In 1993, Mama Burks joined the Mississippi Mass Choir and soon became the face and heart of the ensemble. Her passionate renditions of ``When I Rose This Morning'' and other gospel staples brought joy and healing to audiences across the nation and around the world. Her performances were more than music, they were ministry. With every note, she reminded listeners of the enduring power of faith, love, and perseverance.

Mama Burks was not merely a singer--she was a vessel. Through countless concerts, worship services, and personal testimonies, she embodied the best of Mississippi's rich gospel tradition. She shared her gifts humbly and generously, always giving glory to God.

Now, therefore, as we reflect on her passing, we remember not just the voice, but the spirit of Mama Burks. A mother to many, a sister in faith, and a tireless servant of the Lord, she leaves behind a legacy that transcends music--a legacy of praise, perseverance, and purpose.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Mosie ``Mama'' Burks,

whose voice uplifted generations and whose life was a living testimony of God's faithfulness.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize Gloria Glover for her remarkable dedication and service as Youth Director at New Green Grove Church of Faith in Greenwood, Mississippi. For over 20 years, Ms. Glover has been a steadfast leader, guiding and inspiring young people in her community through spiritual growth, education, and outreach.

Under her leadership, the youth ministry has flourished, encompassing a praise team, praise dancers, and numerous community service initiatives. Ms. Glover, alongside her daughter, LaFonda Knox, and youth minister Robert Keyon Beamon, has played an essential role in creating a vibrant and supportive environment where young members can grow in faith and contribute meaningfully to their community.

Bishop Milton Glass, pastor of New Green Grove for 30 years, affirms that the youth ministry's success has been vital to the church's growth and vitality. Thanks to Ms. Glover's tireless efforts, the ministry has grown to welcome new young members every month, many of whom have been baptized and actively participate in church life.

The young people under Ms. Glover's guidance have dedicated themselves to serving others. They have organized and delivered meals to seniors, collected and distributed socks and blankets to nursing home residents, gathered food for the Community Kitchen and disaster victims, and supplied hygiene products to the Delta Correctional Facility. Their outreach also includes toy drives supporting children during family visits to the prison, reflecting a deep commitment to compassion and community service.

Despite challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic and concerns over gun violence, Ms. Glover and the youth ministry have persevered, fostering a spirit of resilience and faith. Her leadership ensures that the church continues to be a beacon of hope and growth, especially for the young people who represent its future.

Today, I commend Gloria Glover for her outstanding commitment to empowering youth, strengthening her church, and serving her community. Her work exemplifies the profound impact that dedicated individuals can have on shaping lives and nurturing the next generation.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me honoring Ms. Gloria Glover's exceptional service and lasting legacy.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a lifelong educator, community matriarch, and steadfast servant leader, Mrs. Monzola Randle Ross of Cruger, Mississippi.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, once said, ``Longevity has its place.'' That truth finds a shining example in the remarkable career and impact of Mrs. Ross, who faithfully served 41 consecutive years with Central Mississippi, Inc. Head Start, shaping the lives of more than 2,400 children across Holmes County.

Mrs. Ross began her journey in early childhood education as a part- time secretary at the

Holly Grove Head Start Center. Through her dedication and love for children, she rose to become a teacher, then head teacher, and eventually center manager. Even after the closing of Holly Grove, her commitment never wavered. She continued to serve with excellence at the Goodman Head Start Center until her recent retirement.

More than an educator, Mrs. Ross was a life-mentor. From her handmade brown-paper-bag puppets ``Mr. Do'' and ``Mr. Don't,'' to the life lessons she instilled in every classroom, she taught not only ABCs and 123s, but discipline, respect, and purpose. Her former students have gone on to become teachers, entrepreneurs, ministers, realtors, health professionals, farmers, public servants, and even Head Start managers themselves. In every one of their stories, her legacy endures.

She holds a national Child Development Associate credential and has received numerous awards throughout her career. Yet, her greatest reward came from the joy of watching children grow, thrive, and succeed--and from the unwavering support of her late husband, Mr. Albert Ross, her daughters Rose Berry, Lawanda Ross, and Pamela Wiley, and her beloved grandchildren.

Even in retirement, Mrs. Ross remains a pillar of the Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church in Lexington, Mississippi, where her celebration drew nearly 100 well-wishers--friends, family, and former students who came from as far as the West Coast and Chicago. The event featured touching tributes, musical performances, and reflections from those whose lives she touched most deeply.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing and celebrating Mrs. Monzola Randle Ross for her extraordinary devotion to early childhood education, her love for her community, and her enduring legacy of compassion, excellence, and service. Mississippi is better because of her.

Mr. Speaker, I include in the Record the following proclamation commemorating the Multi-Year Reunion of Amanda Elzy High School located in Greenwood, Mississippi, and recognizing the pivotal role it played in the Civil Rights Movement.

Whereas the House of Representatives joins the graduates of

Amanda Elzy High School and the citizens of Mississippi in

honoring the school on occasion of its multi-class reunion;

Whereas Amanda Elzy High School is named in honor of Dr.

Amanda Elzy, a distinguished educator and trailblazer who

helped cofound Mississippi Valley State University and was

the first Black woman to serve as Assistant Superintendent of

the Leflore County School System;

Whereas Amanda Elzy High School, located in the heart of

the Mississippi Delta in Greenwood, Mississippi, stands as a

beacon of resilience, education, and racial progress since

its founding in 1959;

Whereas, the school's establishment followed a

consequential moment in the Civil Rights Movement,

symbolizing the demand for equality in education and the

enduring pursuit of justice in Leflore County and beyond;

Whereas the legacy of Amanda Elzy High School lives on

through its alumni-many of whom have remained in Mississippi

and work tirelessly to improve their communities, including

through civic engagement, grassroots organizing, and

philanthropic leadership;

Whereas more than 130 alumni from the graduating classes of

the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s are expected to gather for the

Amanda Elzy Multi-Year Reunion, to be held on August 28-29,

2025, at the Leflore County Civic Center;

Whereas this reunion not only honors the rich legacy of

Amanda Elzy High School but also seeks to highlight the

school's uncertain future due to funding challenges-making

this celebration both a joyful and urgent call to preserve an

institution that has served generations.

Now, therefore, be it Resolved, that the House of

Representatives commemorates and honors the Amanda Elzy High

School Multi-Year Reunion and the alumni for their lifelong

commitment to education, community, and the values of

progress and equity that the school embodies.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a lifelong educator, community matriarch, and steadfast servant leader, Mrs. Monzola Randle Ross of Cruger, Mississippi.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, ``Longevity has its place.'' That truth finds a shining example in the remarkable career and impact of Mrs. Ross, who faithfully served 41 consecutive years with Central Mississippi, Inc. Head Start, shaping the lives of more than 2,400 children across Holmes County.

Mrs. Ross began her journey in early childhood education as a part- time secretary at the Holly Grove Head Start Center. Through her dedication and love for children, she rose to become a teacher, then head teacher, and eventually center manager. Even after the closing of Holly Grove, her commitment never wavered. She continued to serve with excellence at the Goodman Head Start Center until her recent retirement.

More than an educator, Mrs. Ross was a life-mentor. From her handmade brown-paper-bag puppets ``Mr. Do'' and ``Mr. Don't,'' to the life lessons she instilled in every classroom, she taught not only ABCs and 123s, but discipline, respect, and purpose. Her former students have gone on to become teachers, entrepreneurs, ministers, realtors, health professionals, farmers, public servants, and even Head Start managers themselves. In every one of their stories, her legacy endures.

She holds a national Child Development Associate credential and has received numerous awards throughout her career. Yet, her greatest reward came from the joy of watching children grow, thrive, and succeed--and from the unwavering support of her late husband, Mr. Albert Ross, her daughters Rose Berry, Lawanda Ross, and Pamela Wiley, and her beloved grandchildren.

Even in retirement, Mrs. Ross remains a pillar of the Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church in Lexington, Mississippi, where her celebration drew nearly 100 well-wishers--friends, family, and former students who came from as far as the West Coast and Chicago. The event featured touching tributes, musical performances, and reflections from those whose lives she touched most deeply.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing and celebrating Mrs. Monzola Randle Ross for her extraordinary devotion to early childhood education, her love for her community, and her enduring legacy of compassion, excellence, and service. Mississippi is better because of her.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize Gloria Glover for her remarkable dedication and service as Youth Director at New Green Grove Church of Faith in Greenwood, Mississippi. For over 20 years, Ms. Glover has been a steadfast leader, guiding and inspiring young people in her community through spiritual growth, education, and outreach.

Under her leadership, the youth ministry has flourished, encompassing a praise team, praise dancers, and numerous community service initiatives. Ms. Glover, alongside her daughter, LaFonda Knox, and youth minister Robert Keyon Beamon, has played an essential role in creating a vibrant and supportive environment where young members can grow in faith and contribute meaningfully to their community.

Bishop Milton Glass, pastor of New Green Grove for 30 years, affirms that the youth ministry's success has been vital to the church's growth and vitality. Thanks to Ms. Glover's tireless efforts, the ministry has grown to welcome new young members every month, many of whom have been baptized and actively participate in church life.

The young people under Ms. Glover's guidance have dedicated themselves to serving others. They have organized and delivered meals to seniors, collected and distributed socks and blankets to nursing home residents, gathered food for the Community Kitchen and disaster victims, and supplied hygiene products to the Delta Correctional Facility. Their outreach also includes toy drives supporting children during family visits to the prison, reflecting a deep commitment to compassion and community service.

Despite challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic and concerns over gun violence, Ms. Glover and the youth ministry have persevered, fostering a spirit of resilience and faith. Her leadership ensures that the church continues to be a beacon of hope and growth, especially for the young people who represent its future.

Today, I commend Gloria Glover for her outstanding commitment to empowering youth, strengthening her church, and serving her community. Her work exemplifies the profound impact that dedicated individuals can have on shaping lives and nurturing the next generation.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Ms. Gloria Glover's exceptional service and lasting legacy.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable servant, Judge Carmen Brooks Drake.

Carmen is a proud native of Adams County and a member of the last historic graduating class of South Natchez High School in 1989. She is married to Reginald Drake, and together they have a beautiful daughter, Shelby.

Carmen earned her undergraduate degree from Jackson State University in 1993, before obtaining her Juris Doctor from The George Washington University Law School in Washington, D.C., in 1996.

After law school, Carmen returned to Mississippi to begin her legal career. She served as a law clerk for Justice Leslie D. King at the Mississippi Court of Appeals. She later had the honor of working as a Special Assistant Attorney General under Mike Moore.

When General Moore retired in 2004, Carmen embraced the opportunity to enter private practice in her hometown of Natchez. She credits her mentors--the late, great Judge Patricia Dunmore and Judge Deborah McDonald--for instilling in her the confidence to be fearless in any courtroom, boardroom, or room she enters.

Over the years, Carmen built a dynamic legal career, serving as a Municipal Court Judge, City Attorney, General Counsel for both private and governmental entities, and a dedicated Public Defender. On November 5, 2019, she made history as the first Black person and the first woman elected to serve as Adams County Prosecutor. Three years later, she was elected Circuit Court Judge representing Adams, Amite, Franklin, and Wilkinson Counties--a position she proudly holds today.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Judge Carmen Brooks Drake for her distinguished service and outstanding contributions to the Natchez, Mississippi community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Margie Faye Clark--an outstanding educator, faith leader, and founder of the Amarie Youth Impact Organization, a nonprofit dedicated to uplifting

youth through education, mentorship, and community involvement.

A resident of Panola County, Dr. Clark has devoted over 32 years to education, serving in the North Panola, South Panola, and East Tallahatchie School Districts. Her dedication earned her the title of Teacher of the Year and a role on the district leadership team. She holds a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership and Christian Education, a Specialist degree in Educational Leadership, a Master's in Curriculum and Instruction, and a bachelor's in Special Education and Reading-- earned from institutions including Jackson State University, Walden University, Lincoln University, and Grand Canyon University.

Born in New Orleans to Marie B. and J.C. Clark, Dr. Clark was raised with strong values of service and excellence. She became the first Black woman to run for alderman in Pope, Mississippi. Her family's legacy includes her mother, the first Black nurse in the South Panola School District, and her brother, Dr. Brel Clark, the district's first Black valedictorian.

Dr. Clark is the proud mother of Alisha Bland, Julianne, and Jerlisha Gipson; a grandmother; a great-grandmother; and a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. A former twirler for the world- famous Sonic Boom of the South at Jackson State University, she performed nationally with pride and grace.

She has served as Youth Director for Pope Chapel AME Zion Church for 40 years and as Lay Council President at the church, district, and conference levels. Her leadership has inspired countless youth through faith, education, and purpose-driven service, organizing impactful programs and attending conferences across the country.

Dr. Margie Faye Clark is deeply dedicated to serving not only her local community but also surrounding areas across state lines. Through her nonprofit, Amarie Youth Impact, she has led numerous outreach initiatives, educational workshops, and mentorship programs that have benefited youth and families in Mississippi and beyond. As Vice President of the local NAACP chapter, she advocates for equity and justice while continuing to empower youth through Amarie Youth Impact. Her influence extends widely, driven by a mission to uplift and inspire.

Dr. Clark's life is a testimony of faith, family, and fortitude. She lives by Philippians 4:13--``I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.'' Her legacy is one of sowing seeds that continue to bear fruit in the lives of future generations.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Dr. Margie Clark for her dedication to serving this great state and country.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the work of Delta Burial Corporation as they celebrate 100 years of service.

Delta Burial Corporation has a long history of serving residents of the Mississippi Delta and beyond, regardless of status or income. In 1925, Delta Burial Corporation was founded by Silas Kelly during a time when several hundred Black people were being lynched across the Delta. The business provided services throughout the Jim Crow era, the AIDS epidemic, floods, and even wars, giving families the opportunity to bury their loved ones without the crushing weight of financial hardship. Kelly and his Black colleagues also provided sanctuary for civil rights organizers. They hosted burial society galas and organized countless celebrations of life.

Today, Delta Burial Corporation continues to offer funeral services at prices well below the state average. This is critical, as many counties in the Mississippi Delta face poverty rates between 30 and 40 percent, with some reaching as high as 68 percent, particularly among Black families. As our Nation's economy continues to place added strain on poor and working families, we need the work of Delta Burial Corporation now more than ever.

On behalf of Mississippi's Second Congressional District, I thank and congratulate Delta Burial Corporation on 100 years of service.