[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 18 (Thursday, February 17, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E268]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            BLACK HISTORY TRIBUTE TO EDNA PULLIAM CARPENTER

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                        HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON

                             of mississippi

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 17, 2005

  Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. 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.

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