congressional_record: CREC-2006-12-08-pt1-PgE2142
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| granule_id | date | congress | session | volume | issue | title | chamber | granule_class | sub_granule_class | page_start | page_end | speakers | bills | citation | full_text |
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| CREC-2006-12-08-pt1-PgE2142 | 2006-12-08 | 109 | 2 | HONORING THE MEMORY OF MR. HOOPER MATTHEWS, JR. | HOUSE | EXTENSIONS | HONORING | E2142 | E2142 | [{"name": "Jo Bonner", "role": "speaking"}] | 152 Cong. Rec. E2142 | Congressional Record, Volume 152 Issue 135 (Friday, December 8, 2006) [Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 135 (Friday, December 8, 2006)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E2142] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING THE MEMORY OF MR. HOOPER MATTHEWS, JR. ______ HON. JO BONNER of alabama in the house of representatives Wednesday, December 6, 2006 Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, Escambia County and indeed the entire state of Alabama recently lost a dear friend, and I rise today to honor him and pay tribute to his memory. Mr. Hooper Matthews, Jr., known as ``Big Hoop'' to his children and grandchildren, was a devoted family man and dedicated community leader throughout his life. Hooper was born in Nashville but made his way to Atmore, Alabama, in 1948. He was a graduate of the University of Georgia where he earned a degree in Forestry, which he used while managing his family timberlands as a registered forester. He also owned the Pepsi-Cola Bottling Co. of Atmore and South Alabama Vending Company. He was awarded the Atmore Area Chamber of Commerce's lifetime achievement award in 2005. Hooper was a strong believer in the future of Atmore. His work as president of the A.C. Moore Elementary PTA as well as his work on the board of directors of Escambia Academy exemplified his vision for creating a strong foundation in the community's children. He also supported programs such as Read America, the Huxford Elementary School Reading Initiative, scouting events, the YMCA, and drug and alcohol education, to name just a few of his many pet projects. Not only did Hooper give back to Atmore through his work with children, but he contributed in more ways than most people might realize to Atmore's economic viability through his business ventures. His work with the Atmore Chamber of Commerce, where he served as a past president, brought Masland Carpets to the area and raised funds for Atmore schools as well as The American Cancer Society, The American Heart Association, Williams Station Day, Mayfest, and the Poarch Band of Creek Indians. Even with his numerous professional obligations, Hooper always found time to share his love for the land with anyone and everyone who was interested. Many a child in south Alabama shot their first deer by his side, and on any given day, you could expect to see someone hunting with him. His kind generosity touched many people throughout the First District but was felt with the most warmth back at home. He always had an infectious smile on his face and a love for people that was real and genuine. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in remembering a dedicated community leader and friend to many throughout south Alabama. Hooper Matthews, Jr., loved life and lived it to the fullest, and his passing marks a tremendous loss for all of south Alabama. He will be deeply missed by many, most especially his family and the countless friends he leaves behind. Our thoughts and prayers are with them all at this difficult time. ____________________ |