[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 40 (Wednesday, April 1, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E540-E541]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


         HONORING THE DISTINGUISHED CAREER OF HERSCHEL MULLINS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. BART GORDON

                              of tennessee

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, April 1, 1998

  Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Herschel Mullins for 
marking his 60th anniversary as owner and founder of Mullins Jewelry.
  On March 1, 1938, Mr. Mullins bought the business from the man for 
whom he worked as an apprentice for two years. Raised on a farm in the 
Florence community, Mr. Mullins traded in farming for repairing and 
selling clocks and jewelry. His love of working on clocks was a trait 
he inherited from his father.
  A little over a year later, on July 5, 1939, Mr. Mullins married 
Mildred Alsup. Today, they have three sons, Charles, James and Thurman, 
nine grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. Mullins Jewelry is one 
of few remaining family owned and operated businesses. His wife, sons 
and their wives and grandchildren work with him. The business, located 
on the South side of the square in Murfreesboro, needs no 
advertisements; it is sustained by word-of-mouth.
  In addition to contributing to local commerce, Mr. Mullins has also 
contributed to his country and community. During World War II, he 
worked on aircraft instruments at Sky Harbor and Smyrna Air Force Base. 
Mr. Mullins has been involved in many local and civic activities, 
serving as past president of the Blackman Community Club and member of 
the Optimist club, March of Dimes fundraising committee and downtown 
improvement committees. He is a lifelong member of the Florence Church 
of Christ, where he serves as an elder.
  Again, Mr. Mullins, congratulations on 60 years of successfully 
operating your family business. May the days to come be filled with the 
happiness of family and friends. Thank you for the contributions you 
have made to your country and the communities of Rutherford County.

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