[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 124 (Thursday, September 19, 2013)]
[Senate]
[Page S6641]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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   TRIBUTE TO JAMES E. WILLIAMS, LILLIAN CROOM WILLIAMS, AND MILTON 
                                WHARTON

 Mr. KIRK. Mr. President, I wish to support three Illinois 
citizens from East St. Louis who have made a lasting impact on their 
community. These leaders are the late James E. Williams, Sr., the first 
African-American mayor of the City of East St. Louis, his wife Lillian 
Croom Williams and Milton Wharton, a retired circuit court judge of the 
20th Judicial Circuit of Illinois. It is my pleasure to honor their 
service and highlight their commitment to the city.
  Besides his service as mayor, Mr. Williams also served as the school 
board president of District 189. He was well known for his 
accessibility and commitment to public service.
  Mrs. Williams joined her husband in public service as both an 
educator and civic leader. Her advocacy for higher education and 
support for local police, firefighters and teachers are among her 
lasting contributions to the area.
  Judge Wharton earned his law degree from DePaul University in 1975, 
and was appointed an associate judge for the St. Clair County Circuit 
Court in 1976. Twelve years later, he was elected as a full circuit 
judge for the 20th Judicial Circuit. He has received numerous awards 
and accolades and is an active Southern Illinois University 
Edwardsville alumni member.
  These individuals will be honored this month by the Emma L. Wilson-
King Foundation, which provides scholarships and other resources to 
local students. I join with the foundation in honoring Mr. and Mrs. 
Williams, Judge Wharton and their families for their important public 
service contributions.

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