MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE

1999 Regular Session

To: Rules

By: The Entire Membership

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION COMMENDING WALTER PAYTON FOR HIS OUTSTANDING CAREER AS A PROFESSIONAL ATHLETE.

WHEREAS, Walter Payton, a native of Columbia, Mississippi, played professional football for the Chicago Bears from 1975 to 1987; and

WHEREAS, after graduating from Jackson State University, where he had a remarkable college football career, Mr. Payton was drafted in the first round by the Chicago Bears in 1975; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Payton contributed 16,726 rushing yards with 100 touchdowns during his 13 seasons as a running back for the Chicago Bears, which established him as the all-time leader in running and net yards combined; and

WHEREAS, dedicated to his athletic endeavors, Mr. Payton missed only one game in his rookie season before going on to play a remarkable 186 consecutive games; and

WHEREAS, throughout his historical career, Mr. Payton received a number of honors and awards, including the NFL Player of the Year and Most Valuable Player in 1977 and 1985, being selected to play in the Pro Bowl nine times, completed 77 games with over 100 yards and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame; and

WHEREAS, in 1987, Mr. Payton retired from professional football and the number 34 uniform for the Chicago Bears was retired at Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois; and

WHEREAS, a firm believer that the hope of youth can be nurtured through education, dedication, hard work and role models, Mr. Payton, who has a degree in special education, established the Halas/Payton Foundation to help Chicago inner-city youth through education; and

WHEREAS, after retiring from professional football, Mr. Payton has been successful in business through ownerships of restaurants and night clubs, a power equipment company and a cart racing team; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Payton serves on the Board of Directors for the Chicago Bears, and has contracted to write a weekly football column and hosts a weekly radio show; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of this Legislature to recognize and commend excellence especially when evidenced by such outstanding Mississippians as Walter Payton, a man whose style and moves on the football field have left an indelible print in our memories:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, THE SENATE CONCURRING THEREIN, That we do hereby commend Walter Payton for his incredible career as a professional athlete and extend to him our heartiest wishes for many years of good health, peace, hope and joy.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to Walter Payton and to members of the Capitol Press Corps.