[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 34 (Thursday, March 23, 2000)]
[Senate]
[Page S1665]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    HONORING THE DEDICATION OF RICE-TOTTEN STADIUM, MS VALLEY STATE 
                               UNIVERSITY

  Mr. LOTT. Mr. President, I rise to recognize the importance of this 
weekend in my home State of Mississippi. On March 25th, Mississippi 
Valley State University (MVSU) will rededicate and rename its football 
complex. Formerly known as Magnolia Stadium, the Rice-Totten Stadium 
will honor two of MVSU's great athletes and two ambassadors for the 
Itta Bena school.
  Jerry Rice is a legend--not only in Mississippi, but throughout the 
world. After completing an extraordinary career at Valley, Jerry went 
on to become the greatest professional wide receiver ever. During his 
time with the San Francisco 49ers, Jerry dazzled fans with his ability 
to make the impossible look easy, broke numerous NFL reception records, 
and led his team to multiple Super Bowl Championships.
  Willie Totten is one of collegiate athletics's greatest competitors. 
From 1983-1986 Willie led Valley to the top of Division I-AA football. 
He also raised the bar by which all college offenses are now judged. 
Today, almost every college football team utilizes a strong pass-
oriented offense game plan, but that hasn't always been the case. 
Football fans have Willie to thank for showing us how exciting passing 
over 50 times a game can be. Following a solid career with the Buffalo 
Bills, Willie served the future of competitive athletics as a college 
and high school coach.
  I believe it's only fitting that MVSU recognize and honor Jerry Rice 
and Willie Totten for their accomplishments and achievements by naming 
Magnolia Stadium after them. Although I will not be able to attend the 
rededication ceremony, I wish MVSU, Jerry Rice, Willie Totten, their 
families, and those associated with the University they celebrate this 
occasion.

                          ____________________