Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Percy Norwood, Jr., who is a retired Captain, Commanding Officer, and Executive Officer of the United States Coast Guard.

Mr. Norwood and his wife, Marie, have 36\1/2\ years of marriage and live in Carrollton, Mississippi. They are the proud parents of four adult children: Angelia, Kelvin, Lindsey Marie and Matthew, grandparents of five children: Devon, Shynell, Nathaniel II, Alexis and Camerin; and great-grandparents of one child, Alexander.

Percy Norwood, Jr. retired from the United States Coast Guard in 2000 with the rank of Captain after almost 30 years of outstanding and dedicated service to our nation. At the time of his retirement, he held three key positions: Commanding Officer of Coast Guard Headquarters Support Command, Commanding Officer of Coast Guard Headquarters Staff, and Executive Officer of Coast Guard Headquarters in Washington, DC. Mr. Norwood also served as the first Director of the Coast Guard Recruiting Center from July 1995 to May 1998, where he was responsible for recruiting the best men and women to meet the Coast Guard's military personnel needs. During this assignment, Mr. Norwood led recruiters in creating the most diverse Coast Guard in our nation's history.

In 1993, Mr. Norwood served as team leader for the Vice President of the United States' National Performance Review Task Force where his team explored ways to improve Coast Guard fisheries law enforcement outcomes. As a result of his team's efforts, the Coast Guard maximized the use of technology to drastically reduce illegal fishing in U.S. territorial waters. While pursuing his Coast Guard career, Norwood performed numerous other jobs that included search and rescue; oil and hazardous material cleanup; conducting investigations, evaluations and training; planning, logistics, budgeting and personnel support; and teaching Chemistry courses at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy.

Mr. Norwood's education and training includes: graduating from Marshall High School in North Carrollton, MS in 1964 as class Valedictorian; a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Alcorn State University in 1968; a Master of Science Degree in Analytical Chemistry from Tuskegee University in 1970, and a Master of Science Degree in Human Resource Management from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA in 1980. His thesis entitled, ``A Comparison of the Fit Between the Organization Climate of the Coast Guard, the Job/Career Expectations of Black College Graduates and their Perceptions about the Coast Guard'' provided the basis for several initiatives that would ultimately change the racial and gender makeup of the Coast Guard. Mr. Norwood is a 1977 graduate of the Defense Race Relations Institute. He is a 1992 through 1993 Department of Transportation and Council for Excellence in Government Fellow and a past member of the Senior Fellows Group whose focus is improving government.

Mr. Norwood received numerous personal military awards that included the Legion of Merit, two Meritorious Service Medals, two Coast Guard Commendation Medals, and the Coast Guard Achievement Medal. His non- military awards include the National Image Incorporated Award (1993), the National Naval Officers Association's (NNOA) Dorie Miller Award (1993), the National Association For Equal Opportunity in Higher Education (NAFEO) Distinguished Alumni Award (1995), and the NAACP Roy Wilkins Renown Service Award (1995). Mr. Norwood was inducted into the Alcorn State University Hall of Honor in 2006 for his outstanding leadership and service and elected by his fellow alumni as Alcornite of the Year in 2008 as Alcorn State University's most distinguished Alumnus. Three of his four siblings (Laura, Willie and James) are also graduates of Alcorn State University.

Mr. Norwood is a past president of the Metropolitan Washington, DC Area and the St. Louis, MO Alcorn Alumni Chapters, and the Immediate Past National President of the Alcorn State University National Alumni Association. He is a past Vice President for Membership, Eastern Region Vice President, and National President of the National Naval Officers Association. He is a member of Rho Gamma Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. where he chairs their Project Alpha Mentoring Program and serves as Chairman of the Greenwood Alphas Foundation. He also serves as President of the Board of Directors for Leflore-Carroll- Montgomery Counties Memorial Garden Cemetery, Recording Steward of Helm Chapel Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, and President of the Montgomery-Carroll-Grenada County Alcorn Alumni Chapter. He was recently appointed by the Carroll County Board of Supervisors as the Veterans Service Officer for Carroll County where he is helping veterans get the services and support they have earned and need. He also mentors two young men who are students at J.Z. George High School and tutors two Middle School students and one elementary school student.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Percy Norwood, Jr., a Captain, Leader and Educator for his dedication to serving others and giving back to the African American community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a public servant, Michael Mayfield. Mr. Mayfield has shown what can be done through tenacity, dedication and a desire to serve the City of Vicksburg.

Mr. Mayfield is a graduate of the Vicksburg Public School System. He is also a graduate of Hinds Community College where he graduated with high honors in Basic Electronic and Electricity. He is also certified with the Environmental Protection Agency.

Michael Mayfield was elected to the North Ward Alderman position in July 2005. Prior to this election, he served 10 years on the Warren County Board of Supervisors as Supervisor of District 2. The North Ward Alderman represents the citizens of the northern district of Vicksburg.

Mr. Mayfield is a member and deacon at the Mt. Zion No. 4 Baptist Church. He is a member of the Warren County Children Shelter, the Central Mississippi Planning and Development District and a member of the Steering Community for Warren Yazoo Mental Health.

Mr. Mayfield is the father of three children and has two grandchildren. He has been married to the former Bertha McCalpin for thirty-three years.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Alderman Michael Mayfield for his services to the City of Vicksburg and Warren County.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Reverend Isiac Jackson, Jr., who began his formal education at Rogers High School in Canton, Mississippi, receiving his high school diploma in 1965. He attended Prentiss Junior College for two years and completed his undergraduate education at Alcorn State University where he attained a Bachelor of Sciences degree in Elementary Education in 1973.

Before becoming a Minister of the Gospel, Rev. Jackson taught in the Canton Public School System for years. Other experiences consists of: working as Supervisor I, Madison County Food Stamp Office; Instructor at the Mississippi Baptist Seminary Extension and served for one year as Justice Court Judge, in Canton, Mississippi; Drug Coordinator for Canton Public School System; Moderator in the Madison Baptist Association; Executive Secretary of the General Missionary Baptist Convention of Mississippi, Inc., served as President of the Mississippi Baptist Seminary and was elected President of the General Missionary Baptist State Convention of Mississippi, Inc. in the July 2010 session.

Reverend Jackson is the Pastor of Liberty Missionary Baptist Church in Canton, MS. He is married to Ora Jackson and they have three children: Michal, Ghika (George), and Isiac, III.

During Reverend Jackson's struggle, he stated, ``. . . And He said unto them, Go ye into the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. (St. Mark 16:15). `Every individual on God's earth feels that they are in charge of their destiny and that they know what is best for them. God, being as mighty as He is, sometimes has other plans for us. Until our faith is accepted, there is often a constant struggle between God and man--with God being the victor.' '' After his struggle was over, Reverend Jackson began his ministry in 1978. One of his favorite scriptures is: ``Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. (Timothy 2:15).'' Reverend Jackson elected to further his knowledge in the teachings of the Almighty at the Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, Mississippi, where he received a Master of Divinity Degree. Reverend Jackson received his Doctor of Ministry degree in May, 1999. His dissertation for the degree is entitled the ``Discipling of Black Men Within the Local Church''.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Reverend Isiac Jackson, Jr.

Mr. Speaker, Tamera Jones is the daughter of Mr. Timothy and Felicia Jones of Clinton, MS. Currently, Tamera is an Honor student of Clinton High School.

Tamera is a very outgoing young lady that has served in several capacities in her school, showing great leadership skills and the qualities of a great team member. Tamera is a member of Mu Alpha Theta, HOSA, FEA, FCA and also a volunteer throughout the community. Not only is Tamera a positive influence within her school, but she is the 2016 Miss Teen of Mississippi. In November, she will be competing for Miss Teen of America, a scholarship and recognition pageant that recognizes teenagers from each state based on their scholastic record, community service and development. When she graduates from High School, Tamera will attend Tougaloo College with her Bachelor's degree in Biological Science and will go on to UMMC to receive her PhD in Pediatric Surgery.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ms. Tamera Jones for her hard work and dedication at Clinton High School and throughout the communities of Mississippi.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable professional lady, Ms. Orelia Gail Sias of Cleveland, Mississippi.

Orelia was born to the late Roosevelt and Pauline Sias of Mayersville, Mississippi. She is a graduate of Delta State University and received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration.

Ms. Sias' parents were farmers and owned over 400 acres of land. She realized at an early age that she could accomplish anything she set her heart to do, coming from a household where her parents were the prime example of that philosophy. Therefore, she embarked on her life journey by furthering her education and securing stable employment opportunities with Cleveland State Bank in August of 1986 as a switchboard operator, but knew that her desire was to move up in the financial institute. While in her 30 years with Cleveland State Bank, she moved up in the ranks to her current position as a Customer Representative in the Electronic Banking Division, where she handled customer fraud issues. In 2008, she began a part-time career with Walgreen's as a Pharmacy Technician and became a National Board Certified Pharmacy Technician.

Ms. Sias is very active with numerous community and civic organizations and has received numerous accolades and awards for her dedication to the community. She is politically involved and participated in the 2012 National Democratic Convention held in Charlotte, North Carolina. In 2013, she participated in President Barack Obama's inauguration ceremony in Washington, D.C., and while there she visited the Dr. Martin Luther Museum, his statue and other sites. Although she has influence in the community and through her professional careers, Orelia considers her greatest achievement is to honor the legacy which her parents instilled in her through their teachings: ``To have respect and dignity for everyone your life paths allows you to and that will be returned to you''. Family is of the upmost importance to Ms. Sias and she enhances others' lives by being an example and she offers mentorship to the younger generations.

Ms. Sias lives her life in servitude to others. She opens her home to those needing a place to stay and loan her vehicle to those who may be in need of transportation. She is someone who is admired and loved by her co-workers, community leaders, and her community for her professional style, her frankness of speech and how she carries herself.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ms. Orelia Sias for being an outstanding professional lady in the Mississippi Delta.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the legacy of a dedicated servant, Mrs. Juanita Winston Smith-Owens.

Mrs. Smith-Owens, who was the seventh child of sixteen children, was born to the late Johnnie and Ruby Winston on December 6, 1917 in Pickens, MS. After aging and a short period of illness, Juanita completed her earthly journey while at Westminster Terrance Healthcare Center on August 4, 2016. It was a peaceful passing when she took her Savior's hand and transcended into eternity.

Mrs. Smith-Owens received her early childhood education from the Little Red Schoolhouse formerly known as Richland High School in Pickens, MS.

Mrs. Smith-Owens was married to the late Fred Smith, and this union was blessed with eight children. After the death of her husband, she later married Jerry Lee Owens and to this union no children were born, but she gave her wisdom and love to three stepchildren.

Mrs. Smith-Owens confessed a hope in Christ at an early age and was baptized at Crossroad Missionary Baptist Church, currently known as Mt. Sinai Missionary Baptist Church in Pickens, MS under the pastorate of Reverend Don Sutton. In later years, she joined and united with Newport Missionary Baptist Church under the pastorate of Reverend J.L. Cross where she served in several capacities: Mother's Board, Church Secretary, Sunday School Teacher, President of the Usher Board, and a member of the Choir. She also served for many years as the Treasurer of the Lebanon District Association and Vice President of the District Rose Hill Convention. Mrs. Smith-Owens served faithfully. She later moved to Jackson, MS with her children and

united as a watch-care member from Mt. Calvary Missionary Baptist Church under the pastorate of Reverend Jeffery Stegall. Again, she relocated to Louisville, KY where she united with Community Baptist Church under the pastorate of Reverend William T. Shoemaker.

Mrs. Smith-Owens lived a long industrious, hard working life. For many years, she labored as an agriculturalist and a cook at Double Quick Store No. 19 in Lexington, MS for 16 years and she gave true light to the phrase ``Be the job large or small do it well or not at all.'' She retired from public work in 1989 and enjoyed traveling throughout the United States with her children.

Mrs. Smith-Owens was preceded in death by: her beloved mother, Ruby Walker; father, Johnny Winston; spouses: Fred Smith and Jerry L. Owens; two daughters: Mildred Smith, and Patsie Williams; two sons: Andrew Smith and John Smith; two granddaughters: Jacqueline Campbell-Jones and Racine Smith; one step-son, Lathan Jefferson; three brothers: Louis Stuart, Jesse Castel and Melvin; seven sisters: Ora, Eliza, Ida, Vivian, Lottie, Lela Mae, and Cora; and two son-in-laws: Charles Smith and Roy Williams.

Mrs. Smith-Owens leaves to rejoice her legacy and cherish her memories: four children: Richard (Burnette) Smith, Myron Smith, Dorothy Williams of Jackson, MS and Regina Commodore of Louisville, KY; two step-daughters: Geraldine Owens and Debbie Horton of Chicago, IL; three sisters: Julie (Jack) Greer of Lexington, MS, Thelma (Samuel) Greene, and Gertrude (Charles) Green of Chicago, IL; twenty six (26) grandchildren; a host of great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, a multitude of cousins and a legion of friends.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the legacy of Mrs. Juanita Winston Smith-Owens for her life and works to be remembered.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Willie White, who is an Educator, a Leader and Public Servant.

Willie is a native of Canton, MS, where he and his older brother, Booker T. Jones, grew up and were raised by their grandparents. He is the second oldest child of Earl Jones and Lonnie B. White Bratton. In the late forties, both parents relocated to different Northern states, married and other siblings were born. The 68 year old, credits his stern grandparents for him becoming the man he is today.

After receiving his Elementary and High School education from the Madison County Public School District, he entered Alcorn State University in the fall of 1967 on a track scholarship. To avoid being drafted by the Army or the Marine Corp after receiving draft notices from both, he joined the Navy in 1970, where he served for twenty-one years on active duty and ten years reserved duty. During this time he served three tours in the Vietnam War. Because of his brave and heroic acts, he was inducted into the San Diego Aerospace Museum Hall of Champions in Balboa Park in San Diego, CA in 1989, along with receiving numerous other medals and awards.

Willie retired from the military in 1990 and began working as a Logistic Management Specialist for Naval Air Technical Data and Engineering Service Command (NATEC), which is a department of the defense supporting the war fighters. During this time, he graduated from Defense Acquisition University, San Diego, CA.

His tenure as an athlete, a high school, college and military track coach combined for more than forty years. He received all conference honors in football and track for the U.S. Navy, qualified in Track & Field for the U.S. Olympic team in 1972, but due to military obligations was unable to attend; California High School Coach of the year five times, and received the KGTV Channel 10 San Diego award in 1999 for outstanding citizenship in the community. He also served as chaplain and spiritual leader for the Mill Park Home Boys organization in San Diego, California.

In 1963 and 1966, Willie marched with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in Canton, MS. In 2000 he was awarded the Martin Luther King, Jr. award in Canton, for his participation in these marches trying to ensure equal and civil rights for all mankind.

Since moving to Grenada, MS in 2011, where he now calls home, Willie has been very active in the community. He is continuing to use his knowledge and skills volunteering in various clubs, groups and civic organizations. He serves as president of the Male choir, an usher and on the Board of Trustees at Greater Pleasant Grove M.B. Church, Gore Springs, MS. He has membership in the following organizations: Grenada 100 Black Men of America, Inc., The American Legion and V.F.W. Post, Grenada Baptist District Association Men Division, Grenada Chamber of Commerce Smile Team, Montgomery-Carroll-Grenada County Alcorn State University Alumni Chapter, Alcorn State University National Alumni Association, Community Relations Council member for Finch-Henry Job Corps Center, and a board member of Central Mississippi Incorporated. Willie also volunteers at Grenada High School by giving assistance to the track coach and the ROTC program.

He is the father of four children, ten grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Willie is currently married to his college sweetheart Mildrette Netter White, a 1968 Olympic Gold Medalist. When he is not busy giving back to the community, he enjoys singing, listening to music, gardening, traveling and spending time with his family and friends.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Willie White, an Educator, a Leader and Public Servant, for his dedication to serving others and giving back to the African American Community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Tunica County Board Supervisor Henry ``Lil Sonny'' Nickson, Jr.

Supervisor Nickson was born to Mary and Henry Nickson, Sr. He has one sister, Sharla Brown-Nickson and was raised in Tunica, MS. Mr. Nickson is 40 years old. He is an 8th

grade Social Studies teacher at Tunica Middle School in the Tunica County School District. He previously served two terms on the Board of Alderman for the Town of Tunica. Mr. Nickson was the First African American elected to this position in Tunica County's history. He currently is in his second term as Tunica County Supervisor/District No. 4.

Supervisor Nickson is recognized amongst his family, his community, and his colleagues as a man of integrity and for the service, compassion, and outstanding spirit he has. He regularly attends and serves as a member of Pleasant Ridge Missionary Baptist Church in Tunica, Mississippi.

Supervisor Nickson attended and graduated from public high school in Tunica County. After earning his high school diploma from Rosa Fort High School (1994), he attended Jackson State University in Jackson, MS (Spr '99) as a Business Management Major. He became a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Alpha Beta Chapter. He is a member of Keystone No. 20, Masonic Lodge. For a few years after graduating from Jackson State University, Mr. Nickson enrolled in graduate school at Jackson State University (MAT Alternative Route Teaching Program). Also, he worked as a substitute teacher at Murrah High School and Mazzio's Pizza in Jackson, MS. After 2 years in Jackson, he returned to Tunica to be closer to his children and family.

On his return back to his hometown, Henry started jobs as a teacher's aide in the Tunica County School District and Jailor at the Tunica County Sheriff's Department. Also, Henry began the journey to become a licensed teacher. After a year as a substitute teacher, in 2001 Henry was hired as a GED/ESL/BASIC skills instructor for Coahoma Community College (Adult Basic Education Program). During the next several years, Henry would get promoted at the Tunica County Sheriff's Department as: Jail Supervisor (Corporal), County Team Leader (Coahoma Community College/Adult Basic Education Program), served as Planning Commissioner (Tunica County District No. 4), served as Tunica County Coordinator for Congressman Thompson, and returned back to the Tunica County School District as an In-School Suspension Coordinator and GED instructor. In 2009, Henry obtained his teacher's license and was hired at Tunica Middle School as a Social Studies Teacher/Coach and in 2010 obtained his Masters of Art Degree in Teaching from Belhaven University. Henry is currently working on completing his EDS in Educational Leadership and Administration Program at Delta State University.

Although he excelled in his employment, Supervisor Nickson's political career has been rewarding. In 2005, He became the 1st African American to qualify and win a political seat in the Town as Alderman/ Ward No. 5. After an unsuccessful bid for state representative/District No. 9 in 2007, he regrouped and in 2012 was elected to the Tunica County Board of Supervisors (after an unsuccessful bid in 2003) and is currently in his 2nd term as Vice-president of the Tunica County Board of Supervisors.

Supervisor Nickson is married to Lashunna Owens-Nickson (Jackson State University '04) of Heidelberg, MS. They have eight children: Henri, Chasidy, Anthony, James, Chasity (Jackson State University), Khalid (Jackson State University), Khalil (Jackson State University) and Nikesha (Concorde Nursing Program).

Supervisor Henry ``Lil Sonny'' Nickson, Jr.'s leadership, passion, dedication, dependability, and service has made him synonymous with being one of the best, if not the best, elected official and community leader in the state of Mississippi. At the end of the day, Henry ``Lil Sonny'' Nickson, Jr. is recognized for his service to God, his family, his country, his community, and the people that seek his help.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Supervisor Henry ``Lil Sonny'' Nickson, Jr. for his dedication to serving this great state and country.

Mr. Speaker, Ms. Earline Wright-Hart was born in Rural Holmes County, one of six (6) children, born to the union of Willie and Claudia Mae Wright. Married to James Zachary Hart, 4 children, 3 sons: James, Ryan, Lamont & 1 daughter: Jamie Wright-Hart and a new ``Grand Nana'' to Hailey Kimbrough Jordan.

Ms. Earline Wright-Hart is a member of the Lebanon Missionary Baptist Church, Choir Member and a Trustee. She was also a graduate of Saint Academy, Holmes Junior College and MS State University and graduated on July 22, 2010 from Michigan State University--School of Criminal Justice/Judicial Administration Program.

Ms. Earline Wright-Hart was elected Circuit Clerk of Holmes County in November, 1991 and she still serves Holmes County in this capacity as well as presently serving on the Statewide Election Management System Focus Group with Mississippi Secretary of State, Delbert Hoseman.

Some of Ms. Wright-Hart's accomplishments are:

1. Served as Vice-Legislative Chair for the MS Circuit Clerk's Assoc., 1996 through 1997

2. Appointed Secretary of the MS Circuit Clerk's Association in July, 1999

3. Nominated Professional of the Year by Holmes County Chamber of Commerce in April, 2001

4. Served as President of the Mississippi Circuit Clerk's Association in 2002-2003

5. Named in Empire Who's Who Registry of Executives & Professionals in 2003-2004

6. Appointed by Secretary of State, Eric Clark, Pilot Circuit Clerk for State/Saber Project in January, 2005 for the Statewide Election Management System

7. Parent of the Year in 2004-2005 at Holmes County School District

8. Appointed Program Evaluator for the 21st Judicial District Adult Drug/DUI Court in January, 2006

9. Certified Level 1 firefighter--MS State Fire Academy in May, 2006

10. Named Who's Who Among Professional Female Executives in 2008-2009

11. Received the Dr. Arenia C. Mallory Women History Award at St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church in Madison MS in March, 2009

12. Received Accountable Public Officials Award by Southern Echo, Inc. in December, 2010.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ms. Earline Wright-Hart for her dedication to serving others and giving back to the African American community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an extraordinary Black History honoree, Mr. Dwight A. Barfield.

Dwight A. Barfield was born to a prominent Civil Rights Activist and Vice Mayor of Marks, MS, the Late James Figgs Barfield and Eloise Barfield of Marks, MS. As a child, he was determined to be a distinguished follower of his father.

Webster's dictionary delineates success as ``the attainment of wealth, favor and eminence.'' It is an apt definition, but only a partial one. What is missing is the kind of success that can only be measured in terms of self-fulfillment. At the young age of twenty-one and with the collaboration of young and old supporters and influential African Americans, Dwight Anthony Barfield was successful in his bid of becoming the youngest Mayor of Marks, Mississippi and the youngest elected official in Quitman County on June 3, 1993.

During his tenure as mayor (Three Consecutive Terms from June 1993 through June 2005), Dwight earned a reputation of being a coalition- builder, managing to keep the City of Marks Board of Alderman and the Quitman County Supervisors together. Under his signature leadership, the citizens and the business community thrived and flourished. He partnered with the Casino industry, (namely, Grand Casino) to provide city and county citizen's jobs. He brought business such as McDonald's, Family Dollar, BFI Waste Management to name a few.

He has continued to exude unprecedented willingness to do whatever it takes to keep the community abreast of the positives and negatives. He is recognized amongst his family, his community, and his colleagues as a man of integrity, service, compassion, and outstanding spirit. He attended the historic church where Dr. Martin Luther King spoke on behalf of the ``Poor People Campaign that started in the 1968.''

He is a dedicated and devoted member of Silent Grove Missionary Baptist Church, Marks MS where he serves as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees and as Deacon.

He continues to be an activist in his community while ensuring that elected officials are

held accountable for their actions to the citizens of Quitman County.

He has served on various committees and is a member of numerous organizations to include, but not limited to the following:

1. Currently served as Vice President of Mid-State Opportunity, Inc.

2. Served as Male Mentor, After-School Peer Tutoring Program for Disadvantaged Youth

3. Past President of the Mississippi Conference of Black Mayors

4. Past Board Member of the National Conference of Black Mayors

5. Past Board Member and Director of the U.S. World Conference of Mayors

6. Member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

7. Delegate and Traveled abroad to Africa (Nigeria, Ghana and Senegal) to promote Democracy and World Peace.

8. Members of Masonic Lodge Number 315 of Crowder, MS

9. Founder and Former Scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop Number 306

Dwight A. Barfield's leadership, dedication, remarkable acts of courage, perseverance, tireless service to all mankind and passion to make a difference in his community, makes him an outstanding community activist.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Community Activist and Former Mayor, Dwight Anthony Barfield for his dedication to serving this City, County and State.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a community servant and entrepreneur, the late Mr. Percy Strothers, who has shown what can be done through tenacity, dedication and a desire to serve his community.

Mr. Percy Strothers was born on June 7, 1925 in Natchez, MS to the late Emanuel Strothers and Charity Piggs.

In 1943, after finishing high school Percy joined the Army at the age of 17, where he served for 3 years. As a World War II Veteran, his tenure included the United States of America, England, Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, and Central Europe. He received the ATO- Medal, EAMETO-Medal, GOOD CONDUCT Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal.

He married the former Carolyn Sue Webster on October 30, 1966 and to this union two wonderful children were born. Percy remained a faithful husband to Carolyn for 50 years.

After returning from the Army, Mr. Strothers opened the first black owned Taxi Cab business in Vicksburg MS, which he operated for 27 years. He also worked for Shell Oil Co. for 11 years. Percy later worked for the United States Postal Service as a Letter Carrier for 27 years and Mail Supervisor for 1 year before retiring in 1990.

Mr. Strothers served his community well. He enjoyed serving his community as a Local Historian and Legendary community activist. Percy was affiliated with the National Association of Letter Carriers, NAACP (National Association of Advancement of Colored People), American Legion Tyner-Ford Post 213 and the Esquire Club of Vicksburg. He served as past President of Vicksburg Letter Carriers Union Branch 94, past Chairman for the State of MS Letter Carriers Sons and Daughters Scholarship Committee. Percy received a Proclamation from Mayor Robert Walker designating November 30th as Percy Strothers Day. Percy was instrumental in the development of the 1st Black Subdivision (Melinda Robinson Subdivision) where he served as chairperson of the

development. In honor of his hard work and dedication the street in the neighborhood bares his name.

Percy joined Jackson Street Missionary Baptist Church in 1956 where he remained a faithful and dedicated member of the church.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Percy Strothers for his dedication and loyalty to Vicksburg, Mississippi and his desire to always strive for more.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable public servant, Mr. Riley Rice.

Mr. Rice has extensive experience in the field of education and municipal government.

Mr. Rice was born on August 8, 1943, the fifth child of the late Robert Rice, a World War I Veteran and sharecropper, and Katie Rice, a housewife.

Mr. Rice is a resident of Indianola, Mississippi, and was educated in the former Indianola Public School District. He is a 1963 graduate of Gentry High School; 1967 graduate of Mississippi Valley State University with a Bachelor of Science in Social Science Education; 1992 graduate of Delta State University with a Master's in High School Counseling; and further studies in Political Science at Mississippi State University.

Along with Mr. Rice's background in education, he worked 35 years in the Sunflower County School District. He served 16 years on the Indianola Board of Aldermen and 8 years as Vice-Mayor.

Mr. Rice participated in the Civil Rights Movement in 1965. He was jailed for attending the former Seymour Library and for a sit-in at the Traveler's Inn Restaurant. He participated in many marches throughout Sunflower County and he marched with Fannie Lou Hamer and Charles Scattergood.

Presently, Mr. Rice serves as Supervisor of Sunflower County, District 2; is a member of the P16 Council; a member of the Cares Mentoring Program, and Vice President of the Sunflower County Branch 5333 of the NAACP.

Lastly, Mr. Rice is a devoted Christian and an ordained Deacon at Traveler's Rest M.B. Church, where he serves as Chairman of the Deacon Board and Superintendent of the Sunday School. The Pastor of Traveler's Rest M.B. Church is Rev. T.L. Martin, Jr. of Cleveland, Mississippi.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Riley Rice for his dedication to serving others and giving back to the African American community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable public servant, Mr. Eddie J. Fair, Jr. who is a product of Ruleville, MS.

At an early age Mr. Eddie J. Fair, Jr. learned the importance of education, while attending and graduating from Ruleville Central High School. He also learned the meaning of hard work, as he was the son of a sharecropper, who worked for $3.00 a day. With those principles embedded in his soul, Mr. Fair went on to become a proud graduate of Jackson State University. He obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice and a Master's degree in Public Policy and Administration. He quickly learned that public service was his niche during the five years he spent working in the office of Student Affairs of his alma mater. Mr. Fair then went on to work some 20 plus years in the automobile business, which he mastered in and out. From selling cars to becoming a finance manager then the promotion to finance director, he knew he wanted to be a helping hand to his community. In 2003, Mr. Eddie Fair was the first elected African American Tax Collector in Hinds County (the largest county in the state of Mississippi). He is currently serving in his third term and looks forward to many more years of serving the citizens of Hinds County. This small-town country boy believes that ``No dreamer is ever too small and no dream is ever too big!'' This is the very reason that he continues his efforts to remain involved with community issues and educates the public with frequent informational sessions.

As an active member in the community Mr. Eddie J. Fair stays involved with many organizations that included but are not limited to:

1. Member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

2. Member of the Sollie B. Norwood Lodge Number 699.

3. Life Member NAACP.

4. Member of Leadership of Jackson 2005-current.

5. Member of the Jackson Rotary Club.

6. Member of the National & Mississippi Tax Collector/Assessor Association.

7. Former President of the Jackson Pan Hellenic Council.

8. Former Basileus, Omega Psi Phi, Inc., Beta Alpha Chapter.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Eddie J. Fair, Jr. for his dedication to serving others.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable historical church, Little Zion Missionary Baptist of Money, Mississippi and the great leadership it is under.

The Little Zion M.B. Church in Money, Mississippi was built in 1871 by field-hand laborers. Mrs. Bloodsol gave the people of Wade, Whittington and the Bloodsol Plantations the property. It sits in the center of these plantations.

The bible states that ``Upon this rock, I will build my church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it''. Taking this verse into consideration the church's name became Little Zion. The name is significant because the Hebrew meaning of Zion is Jerusalem and Little Zion is the little Jerusalem.

After the construction of the church, Mrs. Bloodsol gave her yard-boy a letter to deliver to the preacher of the church explaining to the church members what the letter deed meant. She told the yard-boy to tell the members that if they did not understand the letter deed, she would send a rider to explain it.

When the church was built, it was facing the Tallahatchie River which during that time was the main route of travel. In 1929, a fire partially burned the church. When it was repaired, it was built facing the road.

The early leaders of the church were: R.L. Reynolds, A.D. Williams, A.D. Burke, H.L. Collins and S.T. Taylor. They were the cornerstones of the church and they were mainly responsible for the church's continued existence.

Along with the church leaders, many early deacons and wives were responsible for the welfare of the church. Among them were deacons: L.A. Hines, Robert Lathan, C.L. Lofts, Tom Eskridge, Ed McCall, Percy Paul and Bill Hannal and their wives.

Little Zion's present leader is Reverend McAuther McKinnley. Under his leadership the church has blossomed. For 21 years Rev. McKinnley has been responsible for carrying on what Rev. Reynolds started 144 years ago.

Today, Little Zion honors those who took the leadership roles and passed the torch on to the present leaders. Ten years ago, an historical marker was placed on the site of the church. This marker was important because it was a symbol of the long history and struggle of the delta.

Little Zion thanks the fore-parents for making those days possible through the good and bad days it still stands.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Lithe Zion Missionary Baptist Church for its dedication to serving our great country.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Black historical figures in the Second Congressional District of Mississippi. So today, I give honor to Ms. Gerline ``Panky Garvin'' Muhammad of the Blue Cane Community outside of Charleston, Mississippi located in Tallahatchie County, Mississippi.

Ms. Muhammad was born November 9, 1953. She is the mother of six children, 13 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. She attended Allen Carver High School in Charleston and is a graduate of Amhurst Career Center, where she was honored with many awards and recognitions.

Ms. Muhammad is a well-known champion of equal and civil rights. She was a member of the Tallahatchie County Redistricting Committee allowing for the first African American to be elected to the Tallahatchie County Board of Supervisors. Ms. Muhammad is the executive director of the Tallahatchie County Citizens of Change. The organization is established to stimulate and motivate change in thinking and behavior within African Americans in communities of Tallahatchie County. Their work is carried out through an intergenerational model approach that works on improving political awareness, community organizing, assisting veterans, legal redress, civic participation and more. Ms. Muhammad is also a member of the Tallahatchie County Branch of the NAACP where she served as the first vice-president, chairman of the education committee, and now as the chairman of the membership committee.

Ms. Muhammad has been involved in many long-term community commitments in the county. She teaches at the summer tutoring program, hosts back to school rallies, organizes door to door community events, and helps veterans pursue their veteran benefits. She started the P16 Council for the East Tallahatchie School District and is a member of the Dropout Prevention Committee for the school district. To encourage reading among African Americans, she started a book club in the Brooksville community. She works with young entrepreneurs in the community to help improve the future presence of African American business in Black communities.

Ms. Muhammad is a former member of the Jerusalem M.B. Church in Paynes, MS where she was the church secretary, Jr. Sunday School teacher, chairman of vocational bible school and church programs committee, and treasurer for the choir. In 1992, Ms. Muhammad joined the Nation of Islam under the local leadership of Minister James Muhammad and national leader, the most honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan. She served as the LT Captain of the Meetings, and received LT Captain of the year at mosque Number 78 Tupelo, MS. Now she is the Chairman of 10,000 Fearless, which is a justice movement in Tallahatchie County. As you can see Ms. Muhammad has been active in and around Tallahatchie County working fearlessly and consistently for 46 years to foster change and equality.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Ms. Gerline ``Panky Garvin'' Muhammad of the Mississippi Second Congressional District.