[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 40 (Friday, February 28, 2020)]
[House]
[Pages H1256-H1257]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        RECOGNIZING THE SHIPES FAMILY OF BAKERSFIELD, CALIFORNIA

  (Mr. COX of California asked and was given permission to address the 
House for 1 minute.)
  Mr. COX of California. Madam Speaker, I rise in honor of Black 
History Month to recognize the Shipes family of Bakersfield, 
California, who have served as a pillar of the African American 
community for over 70 years.
  In southeast Bakersfield, the Shipes' family business, Mr. Discount 
Plus store, has stood the test of time. First opened in the 1940s, the 
store is one of the last original Black-owned businesses in the 
Cottonwood neighborhood of Bakersfield, and it remains a beacon of 
Black entrepreneurship.

[[Page H1257]]

  Mr. Discount Plus store has become a gathering space for African 
American communities as local leaders drive forward plans to revitalize 
and transform the Cottonwood neighborhood for future generations to 
enjoy.
  I am proud to recognize the Shipes family and their business for 
serving their community for over 70 years, and we look forward to 
another 70 years.
  Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing Black 
History Month and honoring the Shipes family for their service and 
dedication to southeast Bakersfield, their community, the Central 
Valley, and our great Nation.
  Madam Speaker, I thank Mr. and Mrs. Shipes.

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