[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 19 (Friday, February 18, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E287]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 BLACK HISTORY TRIBUTE TO JIMMIE HOLMAN

                                 ______
                                 

                        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 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.

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