[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 79 (Friday, June 3, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1048]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING MAYOR HENRIETTA BLACKMON OF CAMDEN

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JO BONNER

                               of alabama

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, June 3, 2011

  Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to a citizen turned 
public servant who has earned the admiration and respect of her 
Southwest Alabama community.
  In 2000, Henrietta Blackmon made history as Camden, Alabama's first 
female mayor. While a newcomer to politics and the campaign trail, 
Henrietta was by no means a stranger to the people of Wilcox County.
  For some three decades before taking office, Henrietta Blackmon was 
recognized as an invaluable partner in her husband's local medical 
practice. She administered the business while her husband, Dr. Sumpter 
Blackmon, treated the sick. In fact, she never relinquished that role 
even after becoming Camden's chief executive.
  Mayor Blackmon came to office on a mandate to take the city in a new 
direction and she certainly did. Over her three terms as mayor, she 
revitalized the downtown, balanced the city budget, secured block 
grants to upgrade the city sewer system and obtained funding that will 
be used to build a new city hall.
  After 10 successful years guiding Camden, Mayor Blackmon surprised 
many of her friends and supporters when she announced on February 7 
that she was stepping down.
  However, anyone who thinks the mayor intends to slow down had better 
think again. She will not only continue to administer her husband's 
medical practice, but she has also agreed to help run her son's new 
local construction business.
  Camden has progressed under the progressive leadership of Mayor 
Henrietta Blackmon and her presence at the helm of the city will be 
sorely missed. I join with her many friends in wishing Mayor Henrietta 
Blackmon, her husband, Dr. Sumpter Blackmon, and their family the very 
best in the days and years ahead.

                          ____________________