[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 41 (Thursday, March 17, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E520]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     -TRIBUTE TO NATHANIEL PETERSON

                                  _____
                                 

                         HON. JAMES E. CLYBURN

                           of south carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 17, 2011

  Mr. CLYBURN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a South 
Carolinian who works every day to make his community a better place for 
all its residents. Nathaniel Peterson is a well-respected community 
leader in the Myrtle Beach area and is especially effective as 
Worshipful Master of Silver Star Lodge No. 333. I believe Mr. Peterson 
is deserving of our appreciation.
  Nathaniel Peterson was born and raised in New York City. He studied 
at the State University of New York at Buffalo. He worked for nearly a 
decade with New York City Human Resources Administration/EVR as a Fraud 
Investigator before relocating to North Myrtle Beach. He currently 
serves as a financial counselor at Grand Strand Regional Medical 
Center/Hospital Corporation of America, a position that reflects his 
dedication to helping others.
  When he came to North Myrtle Beach in 2003, Mr. Peterson saw 
opportunities to be of benefit to the community. He immediately joined 
Silver Star Lodge No. 333, and within four years was elected Worshipful 
Master. During his three and half years as the Lodge's leader, Mr. 
Peterson has organized various events which provide assistance, as well 
as, recognize individual achievements within the community.
  His giving spirit has prompted Mr. Peterson to sponsor a holiday toy 
drive and initiate outreach programs for families in need. He continues 
to sponsor the Lodge's annual food drive. He is also responsible for 
developing the ``The 100 Men in Black Unity Service.'' This program 
honors men of all creeds regardless of lodge affiliation.
  Mr. Peterson believes in giving back to his community, and looks for 
opportunities to honor others who are doing good works. He has 
recognized clergy, senior citizens, widows/widowers, teachers, and 
government officials within the community for their commendable 
services.
  He is also passionate about providing opportunities to young people. 
In addition to recognizing students for their outstanding academic 
achievement, Mr. Peterson began an annual scholarship program in 2009. 
Each year, the scholarship program assists a graduating high school 
student achieve his or her dream of going to college.
  Wherever there is a need in the community, Mr. Peterson helps to find 
a way to address it. He recently encouraged members of his Masonic 
lodge to join him in restoring the home of an elderly woman and her 
disabled son in the Popular community. He is also a sponsor of the 
March of Dimes and the Paul Chester Children's Hope Foundation.
  Besides his tremendous work with the Silver Star Lodge No. 333, Mr. 
Peterson is also affiliated with the Holy Royal Arch Masons (Harry T. 
Ross Chapter No. 54); John 0' Floyd Consistory No. 189; A.E.A.O.N.M.S. 
Shriner Kaaba No. 89; Member of the Order of the Eastern Star Moonlight 
Chapter No. 168; Knights of Pythagoras Youth Organization JT. Chestnut 
Council No. 46; and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. (Conway/Myrtle 
Beach Alumni)
  Mr. Peterson and his wife, Erica, are the proud parents of five 
beautiful children, which include two sets of twins; Brittany and 
Briana, 21, Brandon, 16, and Jared and Jordan, 12.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask you and our colleagues to join me in applauding 
the community service of Nathaniel Peterson. To all who know him, Mr. 
Peterson is an encouraging, inspiring, and persistent individual who 
works tirelessly to improve the quality of life for others. His 
leadership is a guiding light in the Myrtle Beach community.

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