Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Jackie Shorter born July 25, 1960 to Mr. and Mrs. Willie and Robbie Shorter in Vicksburg, Mississippi. She graduated from Warren Central High School in 1978 and furthered her education by receiving a Bachelor's Degree and a Master's Degree in Elementary Education from Alcorn State University.

Ms. Shorter has been in education for 23 years and presently teaches at South Park Elementary School. She has dedicated all of her life to helping others. She has been the Girl Scout Troop Leader of Troop # 5119 for 12 years and serves as an active member of the Vicksburg Alcorn State Alumni Chapter for 18 years. She is also an active member of her church, Locust Grove M.B. Church, Vicksburg Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Negro Business and Professional Women Club, member of Eastern Star, Lady of Knight, Daughters of Sphinx, Heroines of Jericho, Warren County Sunday School Institute and a member of the

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Reverend Paul E. Luckett. Reverend Luckett proudly serves as Elder in the Mississippi Conference of the United Methodist Church. Currently, he serves as pastor of Saint Paul United Methodist Church and Blessed Trinity United Methodist Church. His divinely anointed duties encompass serving as Chairperson of the West Jackson Vicksburg District Board of Ordained Ministry, member of the Conference Board of Ordained Ministry, member of the Bishop and Superintendent Advisory Committee, and supporting Elder of the Ethnic Ministry Church Committee.

Reverend Luckett received his formal education from Jackson State University, where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology. He later obtained his Master's of Divinity degree in Pastoral Care and Christian Education from the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, Georgia. With a sound educational background and a spirit rich with love for helping others, Reverend Luckett has devoted his life to uplifting those less fortune in his community. He is a strong advocate and member of the Clinton Branch of Habitat for Humanity, works adamantly with Campus Ministry (organization designed to assist students with financial aid and Christian guidance), and helps to enrich the lives of the elderly and underprivileged through his volunteer work at the Clinton Christian Community Cooperation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Lou Ella Robinson-Welton. Ms. Welton was born to the late Reverend John D. (Doc) Robinson, a Baptist Minister, and Ella Jones-Robinson, a homemaker, on April 10, 1921, in Itta Bena, Mississippi. She was the youngest of six and is the only surviving member. Her siblings were Russell, Frank, Arie, and Seavon and Cleavon (twins). She was married to Sammie Lee Welton Senior, also from Itta Bena, Mississippi, for 41 years until his death in 1986. Sammie Sr. was a World War II Disabled Veteran, a Purple Heart Recipient, a Radio Technician, Printer, and Retired Mississippi Valley State University Laundry Technician. They have 5 children: Vernola, Arie Lue, Sammie Jr., Joyce, and Wanda, all graduates of Mississippi Valley State University. Lou Ella has 12 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

Lou Ella Robinson Welton is an educator, community activist, and for 42 years, was a full-time teacher to generations of students in and around Leflore County, and is affectionately known throughout her community as ``Miss Welton.'' Miss Welton began her career as a teacher/educator when she graduated high school, taking her first teaching job when she was 18. Public schools for African Americans in the early 1900s were rare, so her family sent her to private boarding schools. She was the first in her family to complete high school and the only one to graduate college.

She began her education in Humphreys County but the family moved back to Leflore County after only several months. She attended school at the Saint John's Palo Alto and the Leflore County Training Schools in Itta Bena and graduated from the Stone Street School in Greenwood, Mississippi in 1941. She attended Rust College, and later Mississippi Vocational College, now Mississippi Valley State University, when it was little more than a dream in the eyes of its first president, Dr. James Herbert White. Attending Saturday and summer sessions, she and her husband, Sammie (vocational degree in printing), were among the first graduating class of 1953. She was the only sibling to graduate from college and is one of only two surviving members of the first Graduating Class of 1953 at Mississippi Vocational College in Itta Bena, Mississippi.

After receiving her B.S. degree in elementary education, Miss Welton taught in the Leflore County School System for over 42 years. She taught elementary education, special education, and migrant education with an emphasis on independent living, during her career. She has attended numerous training programs at universities around the country and received certificates in many academic areas related to teaching.

Miss Welton has also been active in her community and church where she has lived for the last 89 years. She was a member of the church choir, Sunday School teacher, Home Mission Society, and still serves as a Mother of the church. Miss Welton has been a member of the Goodwill Industrial Club, which she co-founded (a group of women who assisted needy families), The Cancer Network Control, Leflore County Homemakers, and the Mississippi Education Association.

Her other activities have included selling a variety of commodities in the community that included: Avon, Shaklee, Sarah Coventry, World Book Encyclopedia and Sewing for anyone who wanted something special. She made costumes for many years for the sororities and fraternities at Mississippi Valley State University.

She worked part-time at the Roses Department Store and the Spotless Cleaners in Itta Bena, Mississippi. She has mentored numerous students who still call and come by to maintain the friendships that were garnered many years ago. She has a good memory and likes to talk about the good old days to former students, family and friends. Miss Welton remains active by attending local functions, Adult Day Care, talking on the telephone, and keeping abreast of current events through the newspaper and television.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Mrs. Fannie M. White, a life-long resident of Issaquena County. Fannie White was born on September 2, 1950, to Mr. Sidney and Marie Marshall, the seventh of nine children. She is a 1973 graduate of Mississippi Valley State University with a BS in Business Administration. She is retired from the Mississippi Department of Human Services after 28 years of service. She is married to Supervisor Larry White, who is also the assistant pastor of Rose Hill M.B. Church in Mayersville, MS, and has one son, Tristan White, who is a student at Alcorn State University.

Mrs. White has always had an interest in working with the youth in Issaquena County. Since the 1970's, she has been very active in working with the youth in the church, putting on plays to celebrate different holidays. She is the Adult Sunday School teacher at St. Peter M.B. Church where she is a dedicated member. She is also the founder and president of the Mayersville Youth Development Committee, and the director of the Mayersville Children's Village. Mrs. White has worked with these organizations for several years with such services as the Summer Feeding Program, the After School Tutoring Program, as well as the Summer Enhancement Program. She enjoys summer activities with the children, which consists of Summer Fun Days at the park, trips to educational museums such as the Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, TN, the Natural Science Museum, the Planetarium, and the Civil Rights Museum in Jackson, MS. Mrs. White is also instrumental in participating with St. Jude and Muscular Dystrophy Foundation to help raise money for their organizations, also is an alderman for the town of Mayersville.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Jessie Pearl Watt Stewart. Jessie Pearl Watt Stewart is the eighth child of 12 born to the late Plummie and Cora Yates Watt in Grenada, Mississippi where she was reared. She attended the Grenada Colored Public Elementary and High School where she received her high school diploma. Upon graduation from high school, she matriculated in Mississippi Vocational College, now known as Mississippi Valley State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science Degree in Elementary Education. She also did further studies at Delta State University in Cleveland, Mississippi.

It was at Mississippi Vocational College where she met and married the late Coach Conway Stewart, a native of Greenwood, Mississippi. To this union was given three beautiful daughters, Rev. Cora Denise Stewart Lowe, Valeria Stewart Skinner Moses and Yolanda Yvetta Stewart Spinks.

Jessie Stewart's genuine love for children and people and her respect for education were the guiding forces that led her to a career of teaching for more than 39 years in Indianola, Grenada, Leflore County and Greenwood Public Schools. Her dedication and commitment to the successful education for Black children and young adults of the cultural, civic/moral development of Black women were her inspiration in teaching the whole child every facet of life. This was also instrumental in her organizing several young Black women organizations, a young men's organization, Gentlemen of Quality for high school boys. She worked with junior and high school girls for more than 25 years as sponsor and counselor of a civic, social, cultural and educational club. She worked as counselor, advisor and teacher of youth, and young adults, in the Mississippi State Baptist Congress of the Young People Department of Christian Education for 10 years. Jessie's love for God is evident having served at Jones Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, as assistant secretary for more than 40 years, President of the Missionary Society, Director of Christian Education, Director of Baptist Training Union and Sunday school teacher. She has always exemplified strong Christian faith and gives God all the praise for her successes.

Her leadership ability is reflected in her service to the community, having served as President of The Rising Sun Community Organization, which has more than 300 residents, President of the Greenwood-Leflore Retired Education Personnel Association, Past President of the Third District, City and local Federation of Colored Women Clubs Inc., An active Silver Star of Kappa Alpha Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority (AKA), Past President of the Cotillion Federation of Colored Women' Club, Board member of the Salvation Army, originator and sponsor of orphan residents of local nursing homes. She is an active life and local member of Mississippi Valley State University Alumni Chapter and she has served on the United Way and Girl Scout Boards.

She is the recipient of numerous plaques, awards and recognitions for work in the community, schools and churches. Teacher of the Year from Threadgill Elementary School 1978, Teacher of the Year Dickerson Elementary Schoo1 1991, 1993, 1994 and 1996. Employer of the Year for Greenwood City Schools 1995, A+ Teacher of the year 1992, Who's Who Among American Teachers 1993, Community Services Award for volunteers, Wesley United Methodist Church 1997, 4-H Youth Volunteer Award 1993, Club Woman of the Year, Mississippi State Federation of Colored Women Third District, Cotillion Federated Club Woman of the Year and the Greenwood Commonwealth Newspaper Unsung Hero 2004.

She continues to work untiringly, teaching, mentoring, guiding and providing active participation in her church, The Greenwood-Leflore Retired Education Personnel Association, The Rising Sun Community Organization, AKA Sorority, schools, nursing homes and wherever she is called.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Michael Latiker. Mr. Latiker was the first born to the late Charlie and Earnestine Latiker. He is a lifelong resident of Yazoo City, Mississippi. He attended school in Yazoo City and graduated from Yazoo City High School in 1977. Michael is a man with a heart of gold. He is a selfless servant to the public, a helping hand to those in need, a visitor of the sick, and a fierce friend.

Latiker was introduced to Christianity at an early age by his parents. He is an active and a most dedicated member of King Solomon Baptist Church, where he serves on the deacon board and a committed usher. Besides his Christian duties, he acquired other responsibilities which include: The Outreach Program of the community established by Herman Leach, The King Solomon Male Choir, softball coach of males at Roy Capernella Park (ages 6 through 14), Yazoo Brotherhood and mentor for the youth as well as his children Roderick Miguel, Verneda, and Eureka.

Michael's work never ends without a loving smile. No task for him has ever been too enormous. The philosophy he shares, ``Never too early; Never too late, Just call.'' He has affected and changed the lives of many people and has made the community a better place in which to live. With his faith in Christ, he in a portrait true of brotherhood.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Joseph Cleophus Davis, Sr., a long time resident of Port Gibson, Mississippi for 53 years. He was born June 5, 1934 in Claiborne County, Mississippi, to the union of Benjamin Davis, Jr. and Paris Smith, and he shares the June 5th birth date with his mother who celebrated her 102nd birthday on June 5, 2010. Joseph was reared by his paternal grandparents Abby & Benjamin Davis, Sr. and his father in Lorman, Mississippi. Mr. Joseph Davis attended the Jefferson County Schools before he enlisted in the United States Army at the age of 18. He served his country for 3 years, being station at Ladd Air force Base in Fairbanks, Alaska; and at Fort McCullum Army Base in Anderson, Alabama, he served 6 months in the capacity of TDY/Military Policeman. While serving in the Army Reserve in 1961 he was inducted back into active duty because of the Berlin Crisis. He received an Honorable Discharge from the United States Army in 1962.

Mr. Joseph Davis was employed with the Westin House Electric Company from August 1965 through April 1967. Mr. Joseph Davis

was sworn in as a Port Gibson City Policeman in April of 1967, taking this oath gave him permission to carry a weapon in the city, making him the first official black policeman for the City of Port Gibson. Later in life, he was afforded an employment opportunity at one of the great Historically Black University, Alcorn State University. He served in the capacity of Campus Police Officer for 8 years. His great leadership quality and abilities lead him to be offered the Chief of Campus Security position. Her served in this capacity for a total of 11\1/2\ years. He celebrated his retirement at the age of 58 in 1992. After a few months into his retirement he decided to become a Deputy for the Claiborne County Sheriff Department from 1993 to the present. He also works in his store F & J's (Faye & Joe); the store is a very special place for the children of his community.

Mr. Joseph Davis joined Christian Chapel Church in 1957 under the direction of Elder T. E. Harris. He has served the church as a junior deacon, a deacon, Chairman of the Board (two terms), Christian Men Fellowship (two terms) and has volunteered on many committees; he presently serves as an Elder.

Mr. Joseph Davis is a graduate of Alcorn State University with a BA in Sociology, a member of the Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, St. John's Lodge #4, a Charter Member of the NAACP, two time President of the Claiborne County Branch of the NAACP, a former member of the Board of Governors for the Claiborne County Family Health Center Community Health Center, and a former leader for Boy Scout Troop #253.

Mr. Joseph Davis has been married to Faye Vera (Holt) Davis for 52 years. They are the parents of four children: Belinda, Joseph, Jr., Myrtle and Patrick.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mattie Knight Washington. Ms. Washington, the sixth of fourteen children was born and raised in rural Yazoo County, Mississippi. Mrs. Mattie Knight Washington--an outstanding educator and community activist; first and foremost professes God to be her personal Savior. With the firm belief that family is the most basic and important institution in society, Mrs. Washington proudly represents the adage ``a Knight in shining armor''! She is a fine example of bravery, heroism, courtesy, and generosity. This celebrated woman is the epitome of courage, strength and love.

A trailblazer in the area of education, Mattie Bee (as she is affectionately called) learned her first lessons in a home where she was raised by God-fearing parents amid several siblings and members of her extended families. During her teen years she entered Jackson State College (JSU) where she worked very diligently to earn her General Education Diploma (GED). She pursued her goals and later earned a Bachelor of Science, making her first in her family to attend college. Being thirsty for knowledge she obtained a Masters of Science and Education Specialist degrees, all at her dear JSU. Although she has completed further studies at Delta State University, Mississippi State University, and the University of Southern Mississippi, Jackson State remains her ``school of the heart.'' She has served as president of the local chapter of the Jackson State University National Alumni Association.

Mrs. Washington has not only taught for over 32\1/2\ years, retiring in 2004, but she also displays her strong desires to give every child the opportunity to be educated and expand their experiences through sponsorship/coordination of many successful educational field trips for students in Yazoo County to various sites in Mississippi, as well as Tennessee, Louisiana, Florida, New York, and the nation's capital-- Washington, DC. A lifetime member of the Mississippi Association of Educators (MAE) and the National Educators Association (NEA), Mrs. Washington takes pride in teaching children to find a love for education within them. She actively participates in educational enhancement programs and projects in the community, including the G.A. Carmichael Family Health Center, the Yazoo County Chamber of Commerce- Competitive Community, Adopt-A-School Programs, serves as a board member of the Historical Preservation Society, and is an Election Commissioner.

Reflecting on the biblical passage ``The Lord loves a cheerful giver. (11 Corinthians 9:6-7), Mrs. Mattie K. Washington is a strong supporter of the church. Having served in various capacities, particularly in the organization of the Youth Choir, she was one of the first three members of King Solomon Missionary Baptist Church to make a sizeable monetary contribution to the renovation efforts of its fellowship hall. She also assists other community churches in their efforts.

Mattie believes in balance in her life, so she not only gives materialistically, but she also gives of herself through donation of her time and talents. She was the first African-American woman to have started a catering service in Yazoo County, and still enjoys cooking and baking for large numbers of people. One will still find this being displayed over the last 26 years as she honors the Mother Board of King Solomon's Church with an elaborate tribute dinner, where her culinary prowess is demonstrated. She thoroughly enjoys lauding others for their good work so she often takes on sponsoring dinners for the Police Dept., the Mayor and Board of Alderman, as well as family gatherings where city, state, and national officials come to break bread also. This year was her first year spearheading the ``Make a Difference Day'' event that was formally headed by nationally acclaimed local sponsor, Ms. Leola Dillard.

People from all walks of life, ages, and ethnic backgrounds have benefitted from Mattie's contributions. Her philosophy of whether you are prince or pauper, queen or maid, you will find the same warm, friendly welcome to her home, heart, and life. (She is still educating through modeling!)

Mrs. Washington attributes her inspiration to be an educator from the following: her parents, Roosevelt and Minnie Vaughan Knight, who were not afforded the opportunity to obtain formal education; daughter, Debra Knight Howard, an educated business leader; Joseph G. Williams, a fellow educator, who all preceded her in death; supported by her loving husband, George Washington; daughter, Jennifer Washington; and grandchildren, Deidra, David B., Draven Howard, and A.J. Washington; along with her 13 siblings and countless other relatives, friends and associates.

Mrs. Mattie Knight Washington lives to ``make a difference,'' symbolizing courage, strength and love.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Joyce Robinson. Ms. Robinson was born on December 8, 1954 to Doris Murray and Charles Welch. She attended Crystal Springs High School. She married Eugene Robinson on October 2, 1972. They have two sons, Eugene Robinson II and Jarvis Robinson. Joyce works for the George Harris Building Company located in Hazlehurst, MS.

She attends Brushy Creek Baptist Church were she serves in the sanctuary choir, vice president of mission ministry, secretary of the mother ministry and church clerk. She is a member of the Heroines of Jericho, Hopewell Court 118. She is also a member of the Hazlehurst Schools' PTA.

She takes care of her mom who are and other senior citizens in the Crystal Springs area. Many of the senior citizens, who are Veterans of the Civil Rights Movement, depend on Joyce to help them in completing their absentee ballots. She does voter registration throughout Copiah County. During Hurricane Katrina, Joyce assisted in preparing meals for the displaced. She is always a ``helping hand'' to her neighbors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Manuel Welch, a retired Copiah County District Four Supervisor, born in Copiah County in the Shady Grove community. He attended Shady Grove School and joined Shady Grove M. B. church at an early age. Later his family moved into the Crystal Springs School District where he attended school. He graduated from Holtzclaw High School and soon after graduation obtained a summer job at the GEM plant.

Manuel attended Utica Junior College for one year. He received his first full-time job at a furniture plant in Jackson where he worked for 20 years. He found another job interest as he became a Tax Preparer in 1978.

Manuel was active in the civil rights era. In 1982 he was instrumental in getting Copiah County redistricted. He won the 1983 election but it was taken from him. Manuel didn't get elected until 1985 as the first black Supervisor in Copiah County.

He is an active member of the Copiah County NAACP, the Copiah County Democratic Executive Committee, and is a Mason.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Betty Crawford, a resident of Marks, MS, who has used her talent as a folk artist to teach and inspire many audiences. From summer art camps to craft workshops, children and adults alike have had countless opportunities to learn from her original style of art. Using textiles, paint, recycled and repurposed materials, she crafts one-of-a-kind treasures to preserve history and to document southern culture.

Betty serves as a historian for the original Mule Train Journey of 1968, a part of the Poor People's Campaign. She has preserved the history of this event in the form of commemorative art pieces, which have been displayed at museums, schools, churches, community centers and at the Union Theology Seminary in New York.

Betty Crawford, who was too young to participate in the first noble effort, has kept the legacy alive through her artistry and community service. Her depiction of the Mule Train has been nationally recognized as the only original commemoration of that event. Among other awards, she has received the 2002 Outstanding Achievement Award and the 2003 Humanized Education Award both from the Mississippi Association of Education. In 2004 and 2005 she was nominated for the National Education Association Award. In 2005 she was awarded the Tougaloo College Leadership Institute--Strategic Initiative Plan Award; Fannie Lou Hamer Award for Outstanding Community Service and and Peer Award for Excellence--Jackson, MS.

Mrs. Crawford is presently working diligently with local governments, schools and community groups. She supports human rights projects including the Southern Rural Black Women Initiative in Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia; Kensington Welfare Union Rights in Philadelphia, PA; Scholars Poverty Initiative at the Union Theology Seminary in New York, NY and other organizations that strive to empower people and rectify injustices. Mrs. Crawford's ultimate vision is to see a Southern Cultural Museum in Marks, MS, to house her Mule Train Quilt as well as other artists' work that would bring people from all around the world to experience a part of the Delta's Southern Heritage.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Rev. Eddie Walls, Jr., a native of Claiborne County. Dr. Rev. Eddie Walls was born March 24, 1928, to the late Eddie and Carrie Walls. His early education includes the Romola School, Old St. Mark School and the Claiborne County Training School. He furthered his education at Alcorn College located in Lorman, Mississippi. On August 15, 1944, he joined Greater St. Mark M B Church.

On September 26, 1956 he was united in holy matrimony to the late Lessie Paris. To this union three (3) children were born: Linda, Eddie III, and Janice. He has five grandchildren and one great grandchild.

Dr. Rev. Eddie Walls, Jr., serves as the Minister to two congregations. He was elected October 1976 at New Come & See M B Church, having now served 34 years; and the Jerusalem M B Church having served 25 years. As a citizen, he still finds the time to be involved in community activities. He was past president of the NAACP, where he led the charge during the Port Gibson Boycott for 12 years. The U.S. Supreme court rendered a decision in favor of the citizens of Port Gibson. He was also part of a group that filed a suit to stop At-Large elections in Port Gibson which was won by the citizens of Port Gibson. He was past president of the PTSA for nine years. He is currently serving on the City of Port Gibson's Board of Aldermen with a 22 year history.

He was given an Honorary Doctorate in September 2010 by the Claiborne County Baptist Association.

During his many years of dedicated service to this community, Dr. Rev. Eddie Walls, Jr., has proven himself to be a God-sent man.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Rolling Fork Mississippi, native, Eldridge (Butch) Walker. Eldridge Walker was educated in the public schools of Sharkey County, Mississippi. He studied at Worshem College School of Mortuary Science.

Early in his career, Eldridge exhibited the traits of a true leader and activist. He became an active participant in the fight for others and remained focused on improving the quality of life for all Sharkey County, Mississippi, residents, particularly the disenfranchised, poor and vulnerable.

Butch was the first black president of the Sharkey County Board of Supervisors. As supervisor he was responsible for bringing the first Win Job Center to Rolling Fork, MS. Butch served as mayor of Rolling Fork from 2003 to 2007. While serving in the capacity of Mayor, Butch founded the Mayor's Youth Council in 2006 and hosted the Annual Christmas Dinner for Senior Citizens and after his term was over he continues this tradition with his own funds and community contributions. Eldridge owns and operates the Mitchell L. Walker Funeral Home in Rolling Fork. He is dedicated to helping families at such a delicate time in life.

He is a member of 100 Black Men of the Mississippi Delta, a deacon and lifelong member of Mt. Lula Missionary Baptist Church and president of the Sharkey-Issaquena Mass Choir for 14 years. He is also team lead for Sharkey/Issaquena Place Matters, a program that brings awareness to communities about health issues such as hypertension, diabetes and obesity. Eldridge is married to Anne Marie Bailey. Together, the couple have six children, Nickolaus, Kimberly, Ashley, Wendi, Robert and Kiara and three grandchildren Dyamone, Elaysia and Jace.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a worthy member of our society Mrs. Elizabeth Sharkey Keglar. Her contributions to society are a great distance from Washington, in terms of miles but they are considered milestones back home in Tallahatchie County also known as the ``Free State of Tallahatchie''. She was married to Morgan Keglar in 1936 in which they had one son, Morgan, Jr., but one was just the start of her love to protect and teach children and allowed her and her husband to open their arms and home to four other boys.

If you become familiar with her life and take into account the era in which she grew up along with where, the Mississippi Delta, then I am confident that you would join me in recognizing her this day. Mrs. Keglar was born November 12, 1914, in Tallahatchie County, Mississippi, to James Sharkey and Roberta Wright Sharkey.

``The soul would not have a rainbow if the eyes didn't have tears.'' Her beginning was challenging and unsure. On the national scene she was born at the beginning of World War I (1914-November 1918) under the Woodrow Wilson Presidential administration. She lived through the Great Depression (1929-1940s) and a Second World War (1939-1945). She also lived through the Jim Crow laws of the dirty south. She along with other poor minorities and southerners in the south gained a sense of optimism with President Roosevelt's New Deal. On the local scene back home in Tallahatchie County, she was trying to live through two horrifying tragedies. One being the murder of her sister-in law in January 1966, Mrs. Birdia Keglar, longtime voting rights activist from Charleston, Mississippi, because of involvement in the civil rights. The other being the horrific murder of Emmett Till a fifteen-year-old, young black boy who was accused of whistling at a white woman in Money, Mississippi.

However, in the midst of those and countless other events that helped to shape this country and Mrs. Keglar's life, she persevered. The way she dealt with them was through education. Education at that time was viewed as the only means of having a fighting chance of survival. Racism and murder were so rampant in the ``Free State of Tallahatchie'' that an education was vital. She told her high school principal, Professor Hopkins that she wanted to teach as her means of helping others. Professor Hopkins then took Elizabeth who was in eleventh grade at the time to the Tallahatchie County Courthouse to take a test to determine which grade levels she would be proficient enough in to teach. It was determined that her grade to teach would be the first grade. Afterwards, Elizabeth received her high school diploma in 1937. Teaching was a revered profession during that time because school houses for black, ``Negroes'' were done anywhere possible and often during certain times of the year (i.e., churches, outdoors, back rooms, after harvesting, etc.). In addition, she had to teach children of all ages in the same class. Mrs. Keglar taught at Mt. Levy Church School, which was a twelve mile walk from her home. She later transferred to Blue Cane Community School where she served as teacher and then principal. Her longest commute in the name of education was fifteen miles a day for eighteen years to and from Adams Quarter in the Town of Charleston. In 1960, Elizabeth graduated from Alcorn State University with her Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education.

Elizabeth said her drive in life which has helped mold her young and now ninety-seven years old is, ``to live right and reach for the stars'' and that is how she has contributed to minorities, her people, and children throughout her home county of Tallahatchie. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mrs. Elizabeth Keglar and her commitment and contribution to this country.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Evelyn Gordon-Murray. Evelyn Gordon-Murray was born on June 22, 1964, the youngest of 10 children. She is a 1982 graduate from Leland High School in Leland, MS. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Agronomy from Alcorn State University in 1986. She also received her Masters degree in Agronomy from Alcorn State University in 1998.

Evelyn is married to Darnell Murray. She has one daughter, Kenyatta Anderson. She belongs to Beulah Grove Baptist Church, where she serves as the secretary; a member of the Washington County Alumni; a member of New Organization of Women Social & Civic Club; a member of Eastern Star; the President of the Leland School Board; and also a band parent.

Evelyn has worked for the federal government 23 years. She loves and enjoys helping others get assistance, especially in housing. She is currently the Area Specialist in Rural Development.