[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 116 (Thursday, July 14, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E731]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  HONORING THE CAREER OF JIM TATE HILL

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 14, 2022

  Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Jim Tate Hill, who 
dedicated his career to music, academics, and serving.
  Jim Tate Hill started his career in 1970 when he decided to give his 
life to Christ. He began his training at St. Paul Church of God in 
Christ (COGIC) in Bakersfield, California and continued his education. 
He attended college and received his Bachelor's degree in Music 
Education from the University of Pacific's Conservatory of Music. Jim's 
passion in music influenced his service to the community and through 
the church.
  He served as the choir director at Glad Tidings COGIC and in 1981, 
Jim soon grew in different roles. He was the Lead Deacon, Sunday School 
Superintendent, Minister of Music, and Assistant Pastor at Bethel 
Temple COGIC. Under Jim's leadership as pastor of Bethel Temple, there 
were many issues that Jim felt needed to be addressed, such as youth 
and early education, homelessness, and community revitalization. With 
his California-license in general contracting, Jim has assisted in 
building and remodeling over 20 churches between Madera and 
Bakersfield.
  In 2006, Jim was entrusted to be in the leading role as 
Superintendent of the Central Valley District. That same year, he was 
recognized by his contributions to education as one of the inaugural 
recipients of the African-American Heritage Award. During those 41 
years, he worked under three District Superintendents as the Minister 
of Music, Sunday School Superintendent, and as the Assistant District 
Superintendent. In 2019, Bethel Temple opened Early Readers Preschool, 
a full preschool and daycare center, the only one of its kind located 
at a church in southwest Fresno.
  Jim's character and work ethic elevated him to various roles 
throughout his life. He was recognized for his hard work and for 
creating impacts in the community. He was one of four inaugural 
recipients to receive the Excellence of Service medal by Bishop Samuel 
Doyle at the 43rd Annual Jurisdictional Holy Convocation in 2013. In 
2020, Jim was elevated by Bishop Doyle to 2nd Admin. Assistant of the 
California Valley Jurisdiction and Chair of the Southern Region.
  Jim has a B.A. in Music Education from the University of Pacific's 
Conservatory of Music. He has introduced both kindergarteners and high 
school students, to music ranging from classical to gospel for nearly 
40 years in southwest Fresno. His high school and middle school choirs 
and bands have performed in California Music Educators Association 
festivals and competitions.
  Jim has been happily married to Missionary Carla Hill for 45 years. 
Together, they have three children: Tate II, Paul, and Candice, and 
nine grandchildren.
  Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the career 
of Jim Tate Hill and may we continue to be inspired by his many 
contributions in the community.

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