[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 180 (Wednesday, November 1, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1035]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    HONORING THE LADIES OF ELEGANCE

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON

                             of mississippi

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 1, 2023

  Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an 
enthusiastic and self-motivated community organization, The Ladies of 
Elegance. This powerful team is comprised of both veterans of education 
and community involvement and leadership. They tirelessly served their 
community; with this year marking their 23-year anniversary.
  The Ladies of Elegance organization was founded by Mrs. Helen 
Coleman, which she still holds as CEO and President. This group was 
chartered in 2000. It is an organization of a small group of women who 
are local citizens, some who have moved away but have kept their 
membership current. Presently, their membership is 20. Their mission 
since origination was to work with elderly citizens, spend quality time 
with them and provide mentorship to the youth in the community. Each 
year, they give scholarships to graduating seniors who are headed to 
college or trade school. To date, they still firmly believe the elders 
have shaped them and the children are the seeds of hope for our 
tomorrow. The Ladies of Elegance remain dedicated to providing them 
with the support they need to shape them into productive leaders of the 
future. They are committed to engaging them in activities that build 
communication and volunteering.
  Additionally, this organization supports St. Jude's Hospital, Relay 
for Life and most of all, they provide assistance to families in the 
community that are in need. Its signature event is an annual black-tie 
gala held to honor various community leaders as well as state and 
national leaders who have worked hard to support the community.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing The Ladies 
of Elegance for their dedication to support and advocate in their local 
communities, and their selfless service to Bolivar County, MS.

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