Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a plausible and apt man, Mr. Bernard Cotton. He has shown what can be done through tenacity, dedication and a desire to serve others.

Mr. Bernard Cotton is a native of Warren County and resides in Vicksburg, Mississippi. He served in the educational arena for 33 years.

Mr. Cotton earned his Associate Degree in Chemistry from Mary Holmes Junior College, West Point, MS in 1963. Mr. Cotton served in the United States Military from January, 1966 to January, 1968, during the Vietnam Era. In 1969 he earned his Bachelor's Degree in Sociology from Alcorn State University; in 1971 he earned his Master's in Political Science from Western Illinois University; and lastly in 1978 earned his Doctorate in Political Science from Washington State University. During his tenure at Alcorn State University, Mr. Cotton served: in the capacity of Retired Professor Emeritus of Political Science (2002); Interim Dean, School of Arts and Science (2000-2002); Professor of Political Science (1993-2002); Pre Law Advisor (1985-2000); Associate Professor of Political Science (1985-1993); Acting Chair, Department of Social Science (1980-1985); Assistant Professor of Political Science (1978-1983); and Instructor of Social Science (1971-1974). Mr. Cotton has also held several other positions within the education arena such as: Director of Bicentennial Workshop; Graduate Assistant in the Political Science Department; Associate Director for the Black Studies Program at Washington State University in Pullman, WA (1974-1978); and Graduate Assistant in the Political Science Department at Western Illinois University, Macomb, IL (1969-1971).

Mr. Cotton is a member of numerous professional and social organizations. He is married and to that union they have two sons. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Bernard Cotton for his passion and dedication to education and desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a resourceful and ambitious woman, Ms. Andrea Rucker. She has shown what can be done through hard work, dedication and a desire to serve others.

Ms. Rucker is the daughter of Myrtis Rucker of Yazoo City and Otis Rucker of Winston-Salem, N. C.

Ms. Rucker graduated from Yazoo City High School in the class of 2004 with honors and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Special Education from Jackson State University in 2008, graduating Summa Cum Laude. After beginning her career as an Inclusion Teacher in the Yazoo County School District, Ms. Rucker earned a Master of Education in Elementary Education from Mississippi College in 2010, where she also graduated Summa Cum Laude.

Ms. Rucker is a Special Education Teacher at Bentonia Gibbs Elementary in the Yazoo County School District. She has taught for four years in the district and also served one year in the Plano Independent School District in Plano, TX. She recently earned the honor of being named Bentonia Gibbs Elementary Teacher of the Year.

Ms. Rucker is an active member of St. Stephen UMC in Yazoo City where she works as

a youth leader and communion stewardess. Andrea is also a member of the Yazoo City Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta and appreciates the opportunity to have a positive impact on the community through activities sponsored by the sorority.

Ms. Rucker's philosophy on teaching can be drawn from Romans 12:6-9 which speaks of a variety of gifts that may be given to each of us. She believes that if one has been given the gift to teach, that person must teach well.

Having had countless examples of top notched, no-nonsense educators, including her mother, Ms. Rucker strives every day to teach well while remembering this quote from Henri Frederic Amiel which states, ``The highest function of the teacher consists not so much in imparting knowledge as in stimulating the pupil in its love and pursuit.''

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ms. Andrea Rucker for her dedication to her community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Dianne J. Taylor, an employee of the Mississippi Department of Human Services for over twenty years.

The opportunity to become a civil servant of any branch of the government is a great privilege to be able to serve the American people. Dianne graduated from Troy State University in 1993 with her B.S. Degree in Resource Management and shortly afterwards she began her career with the Mississippi Department of Human Services in that same year.

In an effort to build upon her academic training and hands on learning within the agency, Dianne returned to school and received her MBA from Delta State University in 2004. During this entire time, she maintained her employment as a case manager in Tallahatchie County where she administers the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. This program is designed to help single parents become self-sufficient so that they can transition off of public assistance.

Dianne has all intentions of retiring as a civil servant employee, realizing the opportunity given to her twenty years ago has been not only more than a privilege but rewarding by allowing her to help others in need.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ms. Dianne J. Taylor for her longevity and dedication to helping others as an employee of the Mississippi Department of Health and Human Services.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a once outstanding civil servant and educator, Dr. Charles A. Pickett, Sr. His remarkable service to education and the community spanned over 45 years.

Dr. Pickett, Sr. was born January 16, 1938 to Mr. William D. Pickett and Mrs. Willie C. Flowers Pickett in Miles Station, Mississippi. He obtained his high school education from Jim Hill High School in Jackson, Mississippi and pursued his collegiate studies at Tougaloo College, Temple University, and the University of Southern Mississippi. Even in accomplishing such magnificent educational achievements, Dr. Pickett, Sr. pressed forward with additional studies at Brown University and Columbia University. His appointment as a National Science Foundation Physics Fellow awarded him the opportunity to work at nationally renowned universities, such as Fisk University, Texas Southern University, Louisiana State University, and Lawrence Livermore Laboratory. Having obtained a wealth of knowledge and expertise, Dr. Pickett, Sr. was uniquely prepared to pursue the lasting career he ultimately dedicated his life's work towards.

Dr. Pickett, Sr. began his lifelong commitment to education as a teacher of mathematics and physics at Hinds County Agricultural High School in Utica, Mississippi. His exceptional prowess in those subject areas paved the way for him to teach at numerous other institutions, including: Utica Junior College, Alcorn State University, Louisiana State University, Jackson State University, and Mississippi Valley State University, where he was appointed Chairman of the Department of Chemistry and Physics.

Not only was Dr. Pickett, Sr. an outstanding teacher, but also a strong advocate for increasing the number and quality of physics courses offered at historically black colleges and universities. His advocacy was instrumental in implementing these changes, as well as enhancing the availability of physics laboratory equipment.

In addition to his valuable contributions to academics, Dr. Pickett, Sr. held key offices on the Board of Trustees of the State Institutions of Higher Learning (IHL), including Associate Commissioner of Academic Affairs and Interim Commissioner, solidifying him as the first African American professional to serve in either of these positions. Even after his retirement, Dr. Pickett, Sr. continued to provide valuable input to IHL as a consultant.

Dr. Pickett, Sr. was well-known in the community, not only for his professional contributions, but also for his dedication to his family and leisure enjoyments. He was a devoted husband to Marie Wilcher for 44 years and a committed father of two sons, Charles, Jr. and Dewayne. He was a member of the Mississippi Cattlemen's Association, the Terry Cowboys Riding Club, Sigma Pi Sigma Honorary Physics Society, and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. Dr. Pickett, Sr. transcended this life on earth on January 17, 2009.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Dr. Charles A. Pickett, Sr. for his dedication and service as a respected educator and for the commendable contributions he made to the field of public education.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay homage to the life and legacy of Evangelist Della Mae King Sutton of Nesbit, Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, Evangelist Sutton was a mighty woman of God. She devoted countless hours to empower those around her in formal and Christian education. Born July 20, 1941 in Desoto County, MS, Ms. Della was the first daughter to the late Turner King, Sr. and the late Remell Bridgeforth King.

Ms. Sutton began her education at Shiloh M.B. Church in Desoto County, MS where her father was the instructor. She continued her education as an honor student at Hernando High School, which taught students up until eighth grade, and completed her studies as class Valedictorian. Upon leaving Hernando High, Ms. Della finished her secondary education at the age of sixteen at Eastern High School in Olive Branch, MS, where she was Salutatorian of her graduating class before enrolling in Mississippi Industrial College in Holly Springs, MS. It was there where she would meet her companion in life, her husband, Mr. Jesse Sutton, Jr. After completing studies at Mississippi Industrial College, Ms. Sutton earned her Master's of Science degree from Jackson Statue University.

Ms. Della Mae sincerely believed in children and the value of educating them. Ms. Sutton

served as a devoted educator for more than thirty years throughout Mississippi. These schools included East Side High School in Olive Branch, Mississippi; Oakley Training School in Learned, Mississippi; Mendenhall Junior High School in Mendenhall, Mississippi; and Northside Elementary School in Pearl, Mississippi, from which she retired.

Throughout the years, Ms. Sutton has been recognized on several occasions, most notably was when she was recognized by former Governor and First Lady Ronnie Musgrove as one of the Most Outstanding Women for the Reach One-Each One Mother of the Year contest. She served as Chairperson of the Elementary Language Arts and was recognized for a host of other achievements. Ms. Sutton was the recipient of a number of awards, among them is the Who's Who Among Teachers, Teacher of the Year and most recently the Jackson District Association's Living Legacy Award.

Ms. Sutton was a socially engaged woman. She was a member of Southern Christian Leadership Conference, a member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, member of ``Keep Jackson Beautiful'', instructor of the Jackson District Ministers' Wives/Widows group, and an avid supporter of the Mississippi Baptist Seminary. She was an active member of the General Missionary Baptist Convention and a devoted member of the New McRaven Hill M.B. Church, where she served as a Sunday School teacher, member of the Mother's Ministry, devotional leader of the Mission Society and Vacation Bible School teacher.

This spiritual steward for Christ lived a life of both passion and purpose. She was an advocate of education, a champion of civility and a true lover of the Lord.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my fellow colleagues to join me in celebrating the life and legacy of a true champion, Evangelist Della Mae King Sutton.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Shawanda LaShell Allen. Shawanda LaShell Allen was born in Hazlehurst, Mississippi to proud parents Glenda Johnson and Anthony Allen.

Shawanda has always remained dedicated to her academics and extra- curricular activities. She received the highest academic average for the 2011-2012 school year in advanced placement English Literature and Composition, Calculus, United States Government, and Accounting. In addition, Shawanda was inducted into the Crystal Springs High School Hall of Fame, received the Student

Council Leadership Award, and the U.S. Marine Corps Distinguished Athlete Award. Mr. Allen was also awarded scholarships from Boardwalk Pipeline Partners, LP, the United States Achievement Academy, Workforce Investment Area Transition, and University of Southern Mississippi Leadership Scholarships.s

Shawanda participated in the Student Council, Beta Club, SADD Club, Mu Alpha Theta Club, Theater Club--Tigers Actin' Up, and played on the soccer, softball, and track/field teams. She is a faithful member of Clear Creek Missionary Baptist Church where she is a part of the Feeding Ministry and Nursing Home Ministry.

In 2012, Shawanda graduated from Crystal Springs High School with honors. In the fall, she plans to attend the University of Southern Mississippi where she will pursue a degree in Accounting. Mr. Speaker, I ask our colleagues to join me in recognizing Ms. Shawanda LaShell Allen for her hard work, dedication and a strong desire to achieve.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. De'Una Wilson, the 2012 Valedictorian at Canton High School, in Canton, Mississippi. De'Una is the daughter of Mr. Derreco, Sr. and Ms. Regenia Wilson. She was born and raised in Canton and attends Canton United Methodist Church.

De'Una's accomplishments can be attributed to her desire to fulfill her grandmother's dying wish, which was for her to graduate at the top of her class. To achieve this, De'Una dedicated herself to her academics and completed her senior year with an ``A'' average, earning her the merit of Class Valedictorian. In addition to her academics, De'Una has remained active in her community by volunteering at the Open Door Community Outreach Center at Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Canton, and working a part-time job.

De'Una has been accepted into the Engineering Program at Jackson State University where all of her hard work was rewarded with a full scholarship.

Mr. Speaker, I ask our colleagues to join me in recognizing Ms. De'Una Wilson in being Valedictorian of Canton High School's 2012 graduating class.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Roosevelt Lee, Sr. of Kosciusko, MS as a father, husband and agricultural entrepreneur in recognition of his 109th birthday. Born October 23, 1902 to Mr. Tom Lee and Mrs. Mary Young Lee, Roosevelt is the eldest and last surviving of nine siblings, all of which he helped his father care for. Mr. Lee is the father of eighteen (18) children, grandfather to sixty (60) grandchildren, and great-grandfather to more than fifty (50) great-grandchildren.

During a period when educational resources for African Americans were scarce, Mr. Lee managed to receive a third grade education which was offered out of a local church in Kosciusko, where he is a native. At a very young age Mr. Lee committed his time and talent to working to help support his family; he worked as a farmer, mechanic, and raiser of cattle and other livestock.

He is a devoted Christian and passionate steward of the Lord. He was a member of the Mount Ollie Missionary Baptist Church in Kosciusko, MS for 67 years where he actively served as Sunday school superintendent, treasurer, head deacon, treasurer, and trustee. Currently, he is a member of the Bell Grove Missionary Baptist Church of Clarksdale and has been for the past eight years.

Mr. Lee is a member of the Sir Knight Masons of Clarksdale, MS. He has selflessly devoted his time to helping other local farmers maintain and repair their farming equipment and vehicles. Mr. Lee's work ethic and commitment to providing for his family has allowed his family to keep its farm for 81 years. He was a producer of cotton, corn, soybeans and a number of other crops.

In October of 2007, Mayor Henry Epsy of Clarksdale, Mississippi, declared October 27th as Roosevelt Lee, Sr. Day. At the seasoned age of 109, Mr. Lee does not suffer from commonly prominent illnesses such as high blood pressure, cholesterol, heart issues or diabetes. He enjoys boxing, wrestling, and he has a passion for the game of checkers. He has frequented many U.S. cities such as Chicago, St. Louis, California, Atlanta and a host of other U.S. cities and states.

Mr. Lee truly believes that his commitment to Christ has sustained him throughout his life. He believes that if you serve the Lord and do the right thing, regardless of what the next person does, God will bless you. He is a true example of the wondrous works of the Lord and what it means to be a provider for your family.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in celebrating a true champion of life, Mr. Roosevelt Lee, Sr., for his tenacity and zealous work as a farmer, father and fine American.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay homage to the life and legacy of Evangelist Della Mae King Sutton of Nesbit, Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, Evangelist Sutton was a mighty woman of God. She devoted countless hours to empower those around her in formal and Christian education. Born July 20, 1941 in Desoto County, MS, Ms. Della was the first daughter to the late Turner King, Sr. and the late Remell Bridgeforth King.

Ms. Sutton began her education at Shiloh M.B. Church in Desoto County, MS where her father was the instructor. She continued her education as an honor student at Hernando High School, which taught students up until eighth grade, and completed her studies as class Valedictorian. Upon leaving Hernando High, Ms. Della finished her secondary education at the age of sixteen at Eastern High School in Olive Branch, MS, where she was Salutatorian of her graduating class before enrolling in Mississippi Industrial College in Holly Springs, MS. It was there where she would meet her companion in life, her husband, Mr. Jesse Sutton, Jr. After completing studies at Mississippi Industrial College, Ms. Sutton earned her Master's of Science degree from Jackson State University.

Ms. Della Mae sincerely believed in children and the value of educating them. Ms. Sutton served as a devoted educator for more than thirty years throughout Mississippi. These schools included East Side High School in Olive Branch, Mississippi; Oakley Training School in Learned, Mississippi; Mendenhall Junior High School in Mendenhall, Mississippi; and Northside Elementary School in Pearl, Mississippi, from which she retired.

Throughout the years, Ms. Sutton has been recognized on several occasions. Most notably, she was recognized by former Governor and First Lady Ronnie Musgrove as one of the Most Outstanding Women for the Reach One-Each One Mother of the Year contest. She served as Chairperson of the Elementary Language Arts and was recognized for a host of other achievements. Ms. Sutton was the recipient of a number of awards, among them are the Who's Who Among Teachers, Teacher of the Year and most recently the Jackson District Association's Living Legacy Award.

Ms. Sutton was a socially engaged woman. She was a member of Southern Christian Leadership Conference, a member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, member of ``Keep Jackson Beautiful'', instructor of the Jackson District Ministers' Wives/Widows group, and an avid supporter of the Mississippi Baptist Seminary. She was an active member of the General Missionary Baptist Convention and a devoted member of the New McRaven Hill M.B. Church, where she served as a Sunday School teacher, member of the Mother's Ministry, devotional leader of the Mission Society and Vacation Bible School teacher.

This spiritual steward for Christ lived a life of both passion and purpose. She was an advocate of education, a champion of civility and a true lover of the Lord.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my fellow colleagues to join me in celebrating the life and legacy of a true champion, Evangelist Della Mae King Sutton.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Roosevelt Lee, Sr. of Kosciusko, MS as a father, husband and agricultural entrepreneur in recognition of his 109th birthday. Born October 23, 1902 to Mr. Tom Lee and Mrs. Mary Young Lee, Roosevelt is the eldest and last surviving of nine siblings, all of which he helped his father care for. Mr. Lee is the father of eighteen (18) children, grandfather to sixty (60) grandchildren, and great-grandfather to more than fifty (50) great-grandchildren.

During a period when educational resources for African Americans were scarce, Mr. Lee managed to receive a third-grade education which was offered out of a local church in Kosciusko, where he is a native. At a very young age Mr. Lee committed his time and talent to working to help support his family; he worked as a farmer, mechanic, and raiser of cattle and other livestock.

He is a devoted Christian and passionate steward of the Lord. He was a member of the Mount Ollie Missionary Baptist Church in Kosciusko, MS for 67 years where he actively served as Sunday school superintendent, treasurer, head deacon, and trustee. Currently, he is a member of the Bell Grove Missionary Baptist Church of Clarksdale and has been for the past eight years.

Mr. Lee is a member of the Sir Knight Masons of Clarksdale, MS. He has selflessly devoted his time to helping other local farmers maintain and repair their farming equipment and vehicles. Mr. Lee's work ethic and commitment to providing for his family has allowed his family to keep its farm for 81 years. He was a producer of cotton, corn, soybeans and a number of other crops.

In October of 2007, Mayor Henry Epsy of Clarksdale, Mississippi, declared October 27th as Roosevelt Lee, Sr. Day. At the seasoned age of 109, Mr. Lee does not suffer from commonly prominent illnesses such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart issues or diabetes. He enjoys boxing, wrestling, and he has a passion for the game of checkers. He has frequented Chicago, St. Louis, California, Atlanta and a host of other U.S. cities and states.

Mr. Lee truly believes that his commitment to Christ has sustained him throughout his life. He believes that if you serve the Lord and do the right thing, regardless of what the next person does, God will bless you. He is a true example of the wondrous works of the Lord and what it means to be a provider for your family.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in celebrating a true champion of life, Mr. Roosevelt Lee, Sr., for his tenacity and zealous work as a farmer, father and fine American.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to the honorable Mr. William Raspberry. Mr. Raspberry was born on October 12, 1935 to proud parents Mr. James Lee and Mrs. Willie Mae Raspberry. A native of Okolona, Mississippi, Mr. Raspberry has become a celebrated writer as a result of his commentary on social and political issues.

Mr. Raspberry received his Bachelor's of Science Degree from Indiana Central College, now known as The University of Indianapolis, in 1958. After receiving his degree, he served as a public information officer with the United States Army from 1960 until 1962, at which time he began working at the Washington Post as a teletypist. In 1966 he was named as a columnist for the Washington Post, and in that same year, Mr. Raspberry married Sondra Patricia Dodson and together they had three children Patricia D., Angela D., and Mark J.

As a result of his exemplary contributions in literature, Mr. Raspberry was nominated for the Pulitzer Prize in 1982, and received the Pulitzer Prize for Commentary in 1994.

Mr. Raspberry has dictated his strong opinions about the problems in American society through his work with the Washington Post. He has been noted for writing about education, criminal justice, family, and racial matters in America. Mr. Raspberry has often been quoted in many different publications and has also been asked to speak at various conferences and seminars.

In addition to providing a weekly column in the Washington Post, Mr. Raspberry has also served in other capacities throughout his lifetime. He served as a journalism instructor at Howard University from 1971- 1973; Member of the Board of Advisers, Poynter Institute for Media Studies, 1984; Member of the Board of Visitors, University of Maryland School of Journalism, 1985; television commentator for WTTG, Washington, D.C., 1973-1975; Television Discussion Panelist, WRC-TV, Washington, D.C., 1974-1975, and a Member of the Pulitzer Prize Board, 1979-1986. As of 2008, Mr. Raspberry has also served as the President of ``Baby Steps'', a parent training and empowerment program based in Okolona, Mississippi.

He is also the author of Looking Backward at Us, a collection of his columns from the 1980's. Mr. Raspberry has received honorary

degrees from Georgetown University, University of Maryland, and the University of Indianapolis; he received an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from Colby College. He was also the Knight Professor of the Practice of Communications and Journalism at the Sanford Institute of Public Policy at Duke University. During his career Mr. Raspberry, has also served as a member of the National Association of Black Journalists, Capitol Press Club, and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Incorporated.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. William Raspberry for his exceptional contributions to our community and to our society as whole.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mrs. Sarah Kimbrough Hart, a remarkable public servant.

Mrs. Sarah Kimbrough Hart, a 90 year old native of Lexington, Miss., who is the widow of the late Harrison aka ``HB'' Hart, a well-known farmer and strong community leader. She was born May 9, 1922 to Daniel and Rebecca Kimbrough of the Shady Grove Community in the hills of Holmes County. She is the third of eight children (all females). Seven of whom are deceased.

Mrs. Hart and her husband marched and protested injustices during the civil rights movement in Holmes County. They were among the very early African Americans who registered to vote after meeting would-be opposition for the County Registrar.

Mrs. Hart often shares the story of how the Voting Registrar would ask them idiotic questions like ``how many bubbles are in a bar of soup'' or ``how many strains of hairs are on a person's head'' just to discourage them from registering, but they would not give up. They kept returning to the Holmes County Court House until they were allowed to register. She and her husband also housed civil rights workers (freedom riders) from up north in their home. They contributed money and resources to the movement. They were also integral parts of the efforts to bring the first black doctor to Holmes County. Mrs. Hart is the mother of eight adult children, one deceased, and a number of grands, greatgrands and great-great grandchildren.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mrs. Sarah Kimbrough Hart for her dedication to serving others and giving back to the African American community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a woman of great perseverance and determination, minority business owner Mrs. Brenda Love.

Originally of New Orleans, Louisiana, Mrs. Love and her family relocated to Vicksburg, Mississippi when she was fourteen years old. At an early age, Mrs. Love's mother instilled in her the importance of hard work and dedication. These values coupled with savvy business sense have earned Mrs. Love distinction as one of Warren County's most influential business owners.

For more than 15 years, Mrs. Love has served as a model figure in the business community. She has extended services to her community as a trusted income service provider through her business, Love Income Tax Services. She and her husband are also owners of two other local businesses, Unique Impressions Restaurant and Lounge and Unique Banquet Hall, which provides event space for residents looking to host events in the Vicksburg area.

Mrs. Love is a respected member of the general community as well. Outside of her other businesses, Mrs. Love thrives as a realtor associate with Coldwell Banker All Stars. She is also a member of the Warren County Board of Realtors, and the board for the Vicksburg Convention Center and City Auditorium.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring a minority business owner, Mrs. Brenda Love, for her leadership, entrepreneurial spirit, and invaluable contributions to Warren County as a valued member of the business community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a civil rights activist and known legend from Mississippi, Rev. Willie Blue. He is from Charleston, Mississippi.

Civil rights and the movement was a necessary part of American culture. It helped to seal cracks in the American society by making great improvements in its foundation and Rev. Willie E. Blue was a part of that effort.

In 1963 he joined SNCC (Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee). SNCC was founded by Ella Baker at Shaw University as a direct response to segregated public facilities. SNCC's aim was to desegregate those public facilities by organizing ``Sit-ins''. From 1963-1966 he was the field secretary for SNCC and he has worked alongside people like Julian Bond, Stokely Carmichael, Kwame Ture, Bob Moses, and Hollis Watkins to name a few. He became a member of the Veterans of the Mississippi Civil Rights Movement in 2007.

Although the years have passed since the start of the Civil Rights Movement, Rev. Blue has continued his efforts by working with young people to make sure they are educated on the movement and its contribution to society. He is building the fire inside of them to continue the fight for a better America for all citizens. ``It's their turn now'' he says, ``and the veterans have to show them the way.''

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Reverend Willie E. Blue for his dedication to fighting oppression, discrimination, and injustice in Mississippi.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable veteran from the Mississippi Delta, Sergeant Elizabeth Michelle Woods.

Ms. Woods's desire to serve her country began at an early age. As a senior in high school she joined the ranks of the United States Army Reserves and served eight years with the 479th Ordnance Company.

Following her tenure with the 479th Ordinance Company, Sergeant Woods served as assistant squad leader during a tour of duty in Operation Desert Storm. Not only did Sergeant Woods return home a decorated soldier with distinctions such as the U.S. Army Achievement Medal and the U.S. Army Certificate of Achievement, but she also obtained an Associate of Arts Degree in Social Work.

As a result of her tireless work and leadership over her twelve years of service to her country, Sergeant Woods garnered the status of sergeant promotionable along with an Honorable Discharge. After her military service, she continued her educational pursuits and received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Work, a Masters Degree in Social Work, and an Executive Masters of Science Degree in Health Administration.

Sergeant Wood's knowledge of social work and love of serving her community inspired her to enter the field of victim advocacy and develop a Crime Victims Assistance Program within the Department of Veterans Affairs, and serve as Director of Social Work at the Delta Health Center and Aaron Henry Health Center.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Sergeant Elizabeth Woods for her dedication to serving our country and her community.