Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, throughout the month of February, I would like to recognize outstanding African Americans of the 2nd Congressional District of Mississippi, and their contribution to Black History. The 23 counties of the 2nd District are well represented from both a local and national perspective.

Americans have recognized black history annually since 1926, first as ``Negro History Week'' and later as ``Black History Month.'' In fact, black history had barely begun to be studied--or even documented--when the tradition originated. Although blacks have been in America as far back as colonial times, it was not until the 20th century that they gained a presence in our history books.

Though scarcely documented in history books, if at all, the crucial role African Americans have played in the development of our nation must not be overlooked.

I would like to recognize Mayersville's unsung hero, Mrs. Hattie J. Hite. Known as Ms. Hattie, Hite is 70 years old and the mother of one deceased daughter, Lillian Hite. She is very instrumental in the community and her church family. Every morning, Mr. & Mrs. Hite prepare and deliver breakfast to elderly citizens in the community.

She prepares meals for all of the church functions. Each May, she hosts a memorial program at church honoring her mother, sister and daughter. She invites family, friends, and community members to come over for breakfast. She is and has been a mother figure to the entire community.

I take great pride in recognizing and paying tribute to this outstanding African American of the 2nd Congressional District of Mississippi who deserves mention, not only in the month of February but year round.

Mr. Speaker, throughout the month of February, I would

like to recognize outstanding African Americans of the 2nd Congressional District of Mississippi, and their contribution to Black History. The 23 counties of the 2nd District are well represented from both a local and national perspective.

Americans have recognized black history annually since 1926, first as ``Negro History Week'' and later as ``Black History Month.'' In fact, black history had barely begun to be studied--or even documented--when the tradition originated. Although blacks have been in America as far back as colonial times, it was not until the 20th century that they gained a presence in our history books.

Though scarcely documented in history books, if at all, the crucial role African Americans have played in the development of our Nation must not be overlooked.

I would like to recognize Senator Joseph C. Thomas of Yazoo County. Senator Thomas is a graduate of Jackson State University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration. He is also a graduate of the Mississippi School of Banking at the University of Mississippi. He is retired as Vice President from AmSouth National Bank after 30 years of service. He has served as the National Treasurer and Executive Vice President of the Friends Amistad, a national organization in support of the Amistad Research Center in New Orleans,

Mr. Speaker, throughout the month of February, I would like to recognize outstanding African Americans of the 2nd Congressional District of Mississippi, and their contribution to Black History. The 23 counties of the 2nd District are well represented from both a local and national perspective.

Americans have recognized black history annually since 1926, first as ``Negro History Week'' and later as ``Black History Month.'' In fact, black history had barely begun to be studied--or even documented--when the tradition originated. Although blacks have been in America as far back as colonial times, it was not until the 20th century that they gained a presence in our history books.

Though scarcely documented in history books, if at all, the crucial role African Americans have played in the development of our Nation must not be overlooked.

I would like to recognize The Honorable Jimmie Holman of Quitman County. Mr. Holman is the first African-American Mayor of Marks, Mississippi. Mr. Holman was elected Mayor of the Town of Marks, Mississippi in 1987 in a special election to fill an unexpired term and was elected to a full term in the following Mayoral Election. He also holds the distinction of being the first African American Sheriff Deputy of Quitman County, MS.

In 1969 during the organizing effort of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), ``Poor People Campaign-March on Washington,'' the Holman family opened up their home to civil rights workers, one of them Andrew ``Andy'' Young.

In 1968, Mr. Holman supported his family by working as a plumber at Consumer Gas Company for less than minimum wage when Andy Young and his wife Louise convinced him that he would do better working for himself. The Holman family continued to house and support their guest until they left in June of that year. Following the departure of Andy and his team, Mr. Holman declared his economic independence by becoming his own boss.

Following a four year apprenticeship under Austin Jones, a master bricklayer, Jimmie Holman built his first house. Their next venture, a discount clothing store was opened in 1985, followed by an Amoco Service station and Convenience Store. The Holman's businesses have been successful because of their appeal to all segments of Quitman County for the past twenty years. Jimmie Holman is more than a businessman and former politician; he is a citizen that supports his community.

I take great pride in recognizing and paying tribute to this outstanding African American of the 2nd Congressional District of Mississippi who deserves mention, not only in the month of February but year round.

Mr. Speaker, throughout the month of February, I would like to recognize outstanding African Americans of the 2nd Congressional District of Mississippi, and their contribution to Black History. The 23 counties of the 2nd District are well represented from both a local and national perspective.

Americans have recognized black history annually since 1926, first as ``Negro History Week'' and later as ``Black History Month.'' In fact, black history had barely begun to be studied--or even documented--when the tradition originated. Although blacks have been in America as far back as colonial times, it was not until the 20th century that they gained a presence in our history books.

Though scarcely documented in history books, if at all, the crucial role African Americans have played in the development of our nation must not be overlooked.

I would like to recognize Mrs. Jessie D. Banks of Holmes County, Mississippi. A native of Tchula, MS, Mrs. Banks received her Bachelors of Science degree in Elementary Education in 1963 and served as an elementary school teacher in Tchula until 1986. Mrs. Banks is not only noted in Holmes County for her long and distinguished career in education, but also for her dedication in public service and the political arena.

Mrs. Banks was elected as the first African-American Alderwoman for the City of Tchula in 1977. Mrs. Banks served as a delegate to the National Democratic Convention in Atlanta in 1988 and in Chicago in 1992. In 1989, she was elected as the first African American woman mayor of the City of Tchula. She was re-elected mayor in 1993. Mrs. Banks returned as a delegate to the DNC in Los Angeles in 2000 and the 2004 DNC convention in Boston.

Mrs. Banks' public service and political career spans many other public endeavors including NAACP President for Holmes county, Commissioner of Regional 6 Housing Authority, and membership in Habitat for Humanity, The National Council of Negro Women and a life member of the National Alumni Association for Mississippi Valley State University.

I take great pride in recognizing and paying tribute to this outstanding African American of the 2nd Congressional District of Mississippi who deserves mention, not only in the month of February but year round.

Mr. Speaker, throughout the month of February, I would like to recognize outstanding African Americans of the 2nd Congressional District of Mississippi, and their contribution to Black History. The 23 counties of the 2nd District are well represented from both a local and national perspective.

Americans have recognized black history annually since 1926, first as ``Negro History Week'' and later as ``Black History Month.'' In fact, black history had barely begun to be studied--or even documented--when the tradition originated. Although blacks have been in America as far back as colonial times, it was not until the 20th century that they gained a presence in our history books.

Though scarcely documented in history books, if at all, the crucial role African Americans have played in the development of our nation must not be overlooked.

I would like to recognize Ms. Katharine Carr-Esters of Attala County, Mississippi. Ms. Carr-Esters was born on April 9, 1928, to Mr. James William McKinley and Ms. Ida Presley Carr.

Ms. Carr-Esters has always played instrumental part in the movement toward equality in Attala County. She has dedicated her time and efforts to Focus.com (Founder), the Attala County Democratic Committee, the Heritage House Activity Center--organizations which benefit the community. Her community service has been recognized through the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Image Award for Community Harmony, NAACP, Inc., the Attala Historical Society and the Black Service Unlimited. Because of her constant service and dedication to her community, the Katharine Carr Esters Group Home in Kosciusko, MS, and the Katharine Carr Ray Esters Group Home in Meridian, MS, was named in her honor. She was also named the Grand Marshall of the Kosciusko Christmas Parade in 2003.

I take great pride in recognizing and paying tribute to this outstanding African American of the 2nd Congressional District of Mississippi who deserves mention, not only in the month of February but year round.

Mr. Speaker, throughout the month of February, I would like to recognize outstanding African Americans of the 2nd Congressional District of Mississippi, and their contribution to Black History. The 23 counties of the 2nd District are well represented from both a local and national perspective.

Americans have recognized black history annually since 1926, first as ``Negro History Week'' and later as ``Black History Month.'' In fact, black history had barely begun to be studied--or even documented--when the tradition originated. Although blacks have been in America as far back as colonial times, it was not until the 20th century that they gained a presence in our history books.

Though scarcely documented in history books, if at all, the crucial role African Americans have played in the development of our Nation must not be overlooked.

I would like to recognize Mrs. Edna Pulliam Carpenter of Tunica County, Mississippi, born on April 11, 1934. Mrs. Carpenter graduated from Coahoma Agricultural High School and was in the first graduating class at Coahoma Junior College.

Carpenter has taught in Robinsonville, MS at Bowdre School, and she began teaching at Rosa Fort High School in 1962. During her teaching career, she taught various courses including English, Physical Education, Math and Black History, as well as Elementary Education. She also introduced the sport of basketball in the Tunica School System. In addition she coached volleyball, tennis, track, and softball. In 1980, her Lady Lions basketball team made their first of seven appearances at the State Championships in Jackson, MS. In 1984, she was the first black female to coach the North Mississippi Girls Basketball All-Star Team in Jackson, MS.

She also taught classes at Coahoma Community College. In 1990, she retired from Tunica County School System, but continued to teach and coach for 2 years. She still tutors and works occasionally within the system. In 2003, she was named Hometown Hero by Lifetime Television in New York City at the Lifetime Achievement Awards. In 2003, she was also given a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Tunica Teens in Action.

As a result of her hard work and dedication in Tunica County, in 2004, the Tunica Middle School renamed their gymnasium in her honor.

I take great pride in recognizing and paying tribute to this outstanding African American of the 2nd Congressional District of Mississippi who deserves mention, not only in the month of February but year round.

Mr. Speaker, throughout the month of February, I would like to recognize outstanding African Americans of the 2nd Congressional District of Mississippi, and their contribution to Black History. The 23 counties of the 2nd District are well represented from both a local and national perspective.

Americans have recognized black history annually since 1926, first as ``Negro History Week'' and later as ``Black History Month.'' In fact, black history had barely begun to be studied--or even documented--when the tradition originated. Although blacks have been in America as far back as colonial times, it was not until the 20th century that they gained a presence in our history books.

Though scarcely documented in history books, if at all, the crucial role African Americans have played in the development of our nation must not be overlooked.

I would like to recognize John E. Brown of Madison County, Mississippi, born October 22, 1949. Mr. Brown attended Canton public schools and graduated from Rogers High School in 1968 and graduated from Tougaloo College in 1974 with a B.A. degree in Sociology. Additionally, he received his M.S. degree in Environmental Education from the University of Michigan in 1975.

For the past 25 years Mr. Brown has served the people of his community as an advocate for social change and community development. For the past 10 years, Mr. Brown has served as President of the Canton Branch of the NAACP. Currently, he serves as CEO of Madison County Union for Progress. Mr. Brown is a member of Pleasant Green Church of Christ Holiness where he serves as a member of the Board of Deacons.

I take great pride in recognizing and paying tribute to this outstanding African American of the 2nd Congressional District of Mississippi who deserves mention, not only in the month of February but year round.

Mr. Speaker, throughout the month of February, I would like to recognize outstanding African Americans of the 2nd Congressional District of Mississippi, and their contribution to Black History. The 23 counties of the 2nd District are well represented from both a local and national perspective.

Americans have recognized black history annually since 1926, first as ``Negro History Week'' and later as ``Black History Month.'' In fact, black history had barely begun to be studied--or even documented--when the tradition originated. Although blacks have been in America as far back as colonial times, it was not until the 20th century that they gained a presence in our history books.

Though scarcely documented in history books, if at all, the crucial role African Americans have played in the development of our Nation must not be overlooked.

I would like to recognize Mr. Robert Bernard Wilson of Carroll County in the State of Mississippi. Born September 10, 1928, in Chicago, IL, Wilson was educated in the Chicago Public Schools, and later at the Mississippi Industrial College (B.S.), and received certification in Science/Biology at Mississippi State University.

Mr. Wilson served in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean Conflict and received an honorable discharge. He was an educator for 32 years in the Carroll County and Montgomery County school districts where he taught science and biology. During his tenure as an educator, Mr. Wilson was the first African American to coach high school football after school integration in Mississippi. He received numerous awards, such as Teacher Award, Coach of the Year Award (Local and State), Senior Class Sponsor Award and the Montgomery County Citizenship Award.

I take great pride in recognizing and paying tribute to this outstanding African American of the 2nd Congressional District of Mississippi who deserves mention, not only in the month of February but year round.

Mr. Speaker, throughout the month of February, I would like to recognize outstanding African Americans of the 2nd Congressional District of Mississippi, and their contribution to Black History. The 23 counties of the 2nd District are well represented from both a local and national perspective.

Americans have recognized black history annually since 1926, first as ``Negro History Week'' and later as ``Black History Month.'' In fact, black history had barely begun to be studied--or even documented--when the tradition originated. Although blacks have been in America as far back as colonial times, it was not until the 20th century that they gained a presence in our history books.

Though scarcely documented in history books, if at all, the crucial role African Americans have played in the development of our nation must not be overlooked.

I would like to recognize Mrs. Julia Thomas of Washington County. Mrs. Thomas has been an advocate for young African Americans throughout her life. She has been instrumental in getting young African-Americans elected to public office. She is a member of the Progressive Art and Civic Club that provides scholarships to African-American students to help further their education.

Mrs. Thomas' dedication to the citizens of Washington County is also recognized through the sponsorship of twenty to thirty girls to participate in Literacy Bowls, and workshops on etiquette, attitude, mannerism, drugs, health, politics, etc.

Mrs. Thomas also volunteers 85 percent of her time going to schools to talk to students about the contributions that African-Americans have made and are still making in the State of Mississippi and throughout the nation. Some examples of Mrs. Thomas hard work and dedication to having African Americans represented in the political arena include Mr. Davis Weathersby (African-American) serving as Election Commissioner for 2 terms and Mr. Mark Seard being elected to the Office of Supervisors.

Even though she has not been the ``1st'' she has made numerous contributions to her race. Throughout her lifetime she has kept the motto to ``lift as she climbs.''

I take great pride in recognizing and paying tribute to this outstanding African American of the 2nd Congressional District of Mississippi who deserves mention, not only in the month of February but year round.

Mr. Speaker, throughout the month of February, I would like to recognize outstanding African Americans of the 2nd Congressional District of Mississippi, and their contribution to Black History. The 23 counties of the 2nd District are well represented from both a local and national perspective.

Americans have recognized black history annually since 1926, first as ``Negro History Week'' and later as ``Black History Month.'' In fact, black history had barely begun to be studied--or even documented--when the tradition originated. Although blacks have been in America as far back as colonial times, it was not until the 20th century that they gained a presence in our history books.

Though scarcely documented in history books, if at all, the crucial role African Americans have played in the development of our Nation must not be overlooked.

I would like to recognize Ms. Mildred Juanita Scott of Sunflower County, Mississippi. A native of Indianola, MS, Scott attended Indianola Elementary School and later graduated from Booker T. Washington High School located in Memphis, Tennessee. She continued her education at Coahoma Community College in Clarksdale, Mississippi, where she received an AA Degree in Library Science. Ms. Scott also has worked extensively towards a degree at Delta State University, located in Cleveland, Mississippi.

Ms. Scott has worked diligently with grassroots organizations in and around Sunflower County. At an early age Ms. Scott joined the Sunflower County Branch of NAACP where she served as Secretary for this great organization. It was during this time Ms. Scott and others participated in sit-ins and boycotts throughout Sunflower County. Ms. Scott served as chairperson of the Sunflower County Democratic Executive Committee. She served as Den Mother for Boy Scouts of America and is a member of the National Council of Negro Women. For the past 11 years Ms. Scott has served as County Coordinator for the Friends of Bennie Thompson campaign committee. She recently became the treasurer for the Sunflower CO-OP for Community Improvement.

In addition to her long list of volunteer services, Ms. Mildred Juanita Scott has worked for over 38 years as an Administrative/Finance Assistant. She currently works in the Accounts Payable Department at the Bolivar County Community Action Agency.

I take great pride in recognizing and paying tribute to this outstanding African American of the 2nd Congressional District of Mississippi who deserves mention, not only in the month of February but year round.

Mr. Speaker, throughout the month of February, I would like to recognize outstanding African Americans of the 2nd Congressional District of Mississippi, and their contribution to Black History. The 23 counties of the 2nd District are well represented from both a local and national perspective.

Americans have recognized black history annually since 1926, first as ``Negro History Week'' and later as ``Black History Month.'' In fact, black history had barely begun to be studied--or even documented--when the tradition originated. Although blacks have been in America as far back as colonial times, it was not until the 20th century that they gained a presence in our history books.

Though scarcely documented in history books, if at all, the crucial role African Americans have played in the development of our nation must not be overlooked.

I would like to recognize Andrew Hawkins, Sr. (1918-2000) and Mary Lou Hawkins (1907 -1972) of Shaw, MS which is located in Bolivar County. Andrew and Mary Lou ``Mae Lou'' were married in 1937 until her murder in 1972. Being children of slaves and having grown up in the Mississippi Delta during the Jim Crowe era and when the Mississippi Sovereignty Commission was active, they set out on an expedition against segregation and discrimination to improve life for black folks. Their stubborn will would not allow them to accept the unfair treatment imposed by white folks. In fact their willingness to lead and step out front brought death; alienation, planned house fires, and increased harassment upon the family but that did not stop the Hawkins.

In 1969 Andrew along with Mae Lou and twenty other African American plaintiffs sued the Town of Shaw for violating their rights as spelled out in the 14th Amendment. They had lawyers representing them from the NAACP Legal Defense Fund. These were their rights to parallel living conditions in black neighborhoods as experienced by whites in their neighborhoods. Photographed and statistical evidence of both black and white neighborhoods pointed to the disparities between the two of inadequate water supply, unsanitary sewage exposure and disposal, water line pipes, rock roads, natural gas supply, street lights, and more. Hawkins first loss came when he appeared in District Court before Judge Keady. Then on January 23, 1971, the United States Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals overturned Judge Keady's decision making the case a precursor for lawsuits against the inequalities of services provided by municipalities. Careful examination of the evidence presented by the NAACP Legal Defense Fund Lawyers overrode all evidence presented by the Town of Shaw helping to establish a prima facie case of racial discrimination. The court prohibited the Town of Shaw from further spending of monies to improve conditions in white neighborhoods until they improve conditions in the black neighborhoods thus creating a better living environment for the entire Town. The Hawkins v. Town of Shaw case is often equated with such paramount cases as Brown v. Board of Education for being one of the great pillars in African American History.

In May 1972 two months after the 5th Circuit en banc affirmed the decision of Hawkins v. Town of Shaw, Mary Lou Hawkins was shot and killed by a black ``white controlled'' police officer for the Town of Shaw. In the first fire set to their home, no one was injured but in the second fire, their son Andrew, Jr. and two granddaughters were killed. Mr. Andrew Hawkins and his family has certainly been in a storm and faced tragedies as a consequence.

I take great pride in recognizing and paying tribute to these outstanding African Americans of the 2nd Congressional District of Mississippi who deserve mention, not only in the month of February but year round.

Mr. Speaker, throughout the month of February, I would like to recognize outstanding African Americans of the 2nd Congressional District of Mississippi, and their contribution to Black History. The 23 counties of the 2nd District are well represented from both a local and national perspective.

Americans have recognized black history annually since 1926, first as ``Negro History

Week'' and later as ``Black History Month.'' In fact, black history had barely begun to be studied--or even documented--when the tradition originated. Although blacks have been in America as far back as colonial times, it was not until the 20th century that they gained a presence in our history books.

Though scarcely documented in history books, if at all, the crucial role African Americans have played in the development of our nation must not be overlooked.

I would like to recognize Reverend Victor Dixon of Copiah County in the State of Mississippi. Born September 27, 1957, Dixon was educated in the Copiah County School District.

Rev. Dixon is the pastor of the Egypt Hill M.B. Church, where he has been pastor for twelve years. Presently he serves as Moderator of the Brushy Creek-New Hope Association. He is the President of the Copiah County Minister Alliances, Executive Board Member for the Copiah County Fair Association and Board Member for the Copiah County Boys and Girls Club. Additionally, Rev. Dixon is the owner and President of Dixon Body & Auto Sales, Inc.

Previously, Rev. Dixon ministered at Greater Mt. Olive M.B. Church of Oma, Mississippi for 8 years. Rev. Dixon served also served as the Vice-Moderator of Lawrence County Association for four years and Vice- Moderator of the Brushy Creek-New Hope Association for 10 years.

I take great pride in recognizing and paying tribute to this outstanding African American of the 2nd Congressional District of Mississippi who deserves mention, not only in the month of February but year round.

Mr. Speaker, throughout the month of February, I would like to recognize outstanding African Americans of the 2nd Congressional District of Mississippi, and their contribution to Black History. The 23 counties of the 2nd District are well represented from both a local and national perspective.

Americans have recognized black history annually since 1926, first as ``Negro History Week'' and later as ``Black History Month.'' In fact, black history had barely begun to be studied--or even documented--when the tradition originated. Although blacks have been in America as far back as colonial times, it was not until the 20th century that they gained a presence in our history books.

Though scarcely documented in history books, if at all, the crucial role African Americans have played in the development of our nation must not be overlooked.

I would like to recognize Mr. King T. Evans, Sr. of Sharkey County in the State of Mississippi. Mr. Evan has dedicated his life to community services as an advocate, member, and president of the Sharkey County branch of NAACP. During the Civil Rights era, Mr. Evans was instrumental in securing the return of a high school in the City of Anguilla for black students that was originally constructed for white students in the community. As a result of his longevity during the Civil Rights Era, Mr. Evans was recognized as a ``Long Distance Runner'' by the Mississippi Conference of the NAACP.

Mr. Evans is also known as the co-founder of one of the oldest funeral homes in Greenville, Mississippi, Edwards & Evans Funeral Home (1944). In addition, Mr. Evans recorded oral family history and the history of the Mississippi Delta Region on CD-ROM for the University of Southern Mississippi along with filming historical pleas and contemporary culture of the MS Delta Region to preserve the rich history of this area in the 2nd Congressional District.

He has received numerous awards for his outstanding contribution to the African American Race-Received ``Outstanding Volunteer Award,'' Service Award, and Appreciation Award. For his hard work and dedication to African Americans, the City of Greenville has honored him with a street being named ``King T. Evans Street'' and the South Delta School District has named their resource room the ``King T. Evans Resource Room'' in his honor. Mr. Evans has been a true trailblazer for the African-American community.

I take great pride in recognizing and paying tribute to this outstanding African American of the 2nd Congressional District of Mississippi who deserves mention, not only in the month of February but year round.

Mr. Speaker, throughout the month of February, I would like to recognize outstanding African Americans of the 2nd Congressional District of Mississippi, and their contribution to Black History. The 23 counties of the 2nd District are well represented from both a local and national perspective.

Americans have recognized black history annually since 1926, first as ``Negro History Week'' and later as ``Black History Month.'' In fact, black history had barely begun to be studied--or even documented--when the tradition originated. Although blacks have been in America as far back as colonial times, it was not until the 20th century that they gained a presence in our history books.

Though scarcely documented in history books, if at all, the crucial role African Americans have played in the development of our Nation must not be overlooked.

I would like to recognize Mr. Frank Davis of Claiborne County, Mississippi. Mr. Davis was born March 22, 1947. Upon his completion of high school, he served two years in the United States Army, where he developed a passion to protect and serve. Afterwards, Mr. Davis attended Alcorn State University and obtained his B.S. degree in 1971. Davis continued his educational studies at the University of Southern Mississippi in 1973 in Criminal Justice and Alcorn State University in 1988 in Business Education. Following his extensive educational studies, Mr. Frank Davis became the first elected black Sheriff for the State of Mississippi.

Sheriff Davis has served in many capacities throughout Claiborne County. His long standing commitment in law enforcement has lead him to hold the position of First Sergeant of the 114th Military Police Company and Deputy Sheriff of Claiborne under the leadership of the late and former Sheriff Dan McCaa. In addition, Mr. Davis has held the position of Assistant Chief of Police for the City of Port Gibson, Director of Claiborne County Civil Defense, Acting Superintendent of Education for the Claiborne County Public Civil Defense, and Acting Superintendent of Education for the Claiborne County Public School District.

Sheriff Davis has not only held several key positions throughout his career, but he has held key positions with civic organizations throughout the county. Sheriff Davis was elected president of the Mississippi Sheriff Association from 2000-2001, making him the first black to hold this position. He is a founding father of NOBLE (National Organization of Black Law Enforcement) Chapter in Mississippi, and served as president in 1990. He is a member of the Young Men of America, a member of the Heritage Corridor Study and served on the Boys and Girls Ranch Board of Mississippi Sheriff's Association Boys and Girls Ranch. Additionally, his compassion for people and their rehabilitation while incarcerated led him to continue studying. Ultimately, he became certified in jail management, criminal investigations, mentally ill inmates, street survival and rural homicide to name a few. Today, he continues his devotion to justice by serving as Sheriff of Claiborne County with 25 years of dedicated service.

I take great pride in recognizing and paying tribute to this outstanding African American of the 2nd Congressional District of Mississippi who deserves mention, not only in the month of February but year round.

Mr. Speaker, throughout the month of February, I would like to recognize outstanding African Americans of the 2nd Congressional District of Mississippi, and their contribution to Black History. The 23 counties of the 2nd District are well represented from both a local and national perspective.

Americans have recognized black history annually since 1926, first as ``Negro History Week'' and later as ``Black History Month.'' In fact, black history had barely begun to be studied--or even documented--when the tradition originated. Although blacks have been in America as far back as colonial times, it was not until the 20th century that they gained a presence in our history books.

Though scarcely documented in history books, if at all, the crucial role African Americans have played in the development of our Nation must not be overlooked.

I would like to recognize Mr. John Austin James, Jr., of Leflore County. From 1942-1946, Mr. James was enlisted in the U.S. Army and fought in World War II, where he later received an Honorable Discharge. He also spent three years in the U.S. Army Reserve.

Mr. James departure from the military sparked the beginning of his career in education. He was formally educated and later became Department Head for the Science and Mathematics Department at Mississippi Valley State University (MVSU). In 1971, he was named the Director for the Office of Institutional Research at MVSU, a position he retired from in 1992.

Mr. John A. James has been active in several civic and professional organizations. He is currently Treasurer for the Leflore County Democratic Executive Committee and former Chairman of the Board of Authority for the Delta Correctional Facility located in Greenwood, Mississippi. He is the past Basileus for the Beta Rho Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Mr. James is Co-Chairman of the MVSU Pioneers and Life Associate Member of MVSU Alumni.

Mr. John A. James has received several awards and recognitions for his outstanding community involvement and volunteer services. To name a few, Mr. James has a building on the campus of MVSU named in his honor, received the Outstanding Service Award at his church, Meritorious Service for his leadership as the Board Chairman, Omega Man of the Year, MVSU 25th Anniversary Meritorious Service plaques and others.

I take great pride in recognizing and paying tribute to this outstanding African American of the 2nd Congressional District of Mississippi who deserves mention, not only in the month of February but year round.