[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 75 (Wednesday, May 1, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E430]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               HONORING SHELBY BROADSTREET SCHOOL ALUMNI

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON

                             of mississippi

                    in the house of representatives

                         Wednesday, May 1, 2024

  Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 
dedicated efforts of the Shelby Broadsheet School Alumni, an 
enthusiastic and self-motivated group of former graduates from Shelby 
Broadstreet High School.
  This remarkable team has initiated the Shelby Broadstreet Class 
Clean-up project, which brings together individuals from diverse 
backgrounds including businessmen, medical professionals, veterans of 
education, students, and other community citizens. The Shelby 
Broadstreet School Alumni are tirelessly organizing and serving their 
community, demonstrating a strong commitment to giving back and 
revitalizing their hometown.
  Chilion Stapleton and Alexis Davis, both graduates of the old Shelby 
Broadsheet High School in 2001, initiated a meaningful project to give 
back to their hometown. Together with fellow classmates, they embarked 
on a plan to make this a recurring tradition. Joining forces with other 
graduating classes, Stapleton and Davis orchestrated a reunion on 
Saturday, March 30, dedicated to cleaning up their old stomping 
grounds.
  The initiative was sparked by social media discussions among Broad 
Street alumni, who learned about littering and clean-up challenges in 
Shelby. Motivated to make a positive impact, they organized a 
collective effort to address the issue. Together, they rallied 
approximately 30 participants, including 13 from the class of 2001. 
Notably, former students traveled from out of state, including Texas, 
to contribute to the cause. Despite only three attendees still residing 
in Shelby, the group was determined to effect change in their hometown. 
Stapleton highlighted their proactive approach: ``We gathered the 
troops upon discovering issues with littering and waste composite in 
our hometown and decided to take action for the better.'' The call to 
action was broadcasted through their alumni homecoming Facebook page, 
resulting in an enthusiastic response.
  The dedicated volunteers worked tirelessly, with each represented 
class tackling specific areas of the town for clean-up. The evening 
concluded with further planning, camaraderie, and shared laughter. This 
meaningful endeavor not only strengthened community ties but also 
provided an opportunity for former students to reconnect with their 
families and roots in Shelby. The Shelby Broadstreet classes are 
committed to continuing these reunions and cleaning efforts to further 
enhance their beloved hometown.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing The Shelby 
Broadstreet School Alumni for their dedication and initiative in 
undertaking this important community endeavor. Their collective 
contributions are truly inspiring and reflect the best of our shared 
values as citizens and neighbors.

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