MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE
2007 Regular Session
To: Rules
By: Senator(s) Burton, Carmichael, Jackson (32nd), Lee (35th), Posey, Browning, Dearing, Frazier, Gollott, Gordon, Jackson (11th), White
A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND CONGRATULATING WANDA JOHNSON ON BEING SELECTED AS THE 2006 STATE GAMES OF MISSISSIPPI BELLSOUTH FEMALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR.
WHEREAS, Wanda Johnson of Crystal Springs, Mississippi, was selected as the 2006 State Games of Mississippi BellSouth Female Athlete of the Year; and
WHEREAS, the award seeks to honor those athletes who personify the ideals of the State Games movement, such as participation, sportsmanship, achievement, effort and positive attitude; and
WHEREAS, Wanda Johnson, age 50, took up volleyball late in life and plays very competitively at her age in a sporting event that is predominantly played by males. Over the years, she has medaled in the State Games of Mississippi's volleyball event in both men's and women's divisions; and
WHEREAS, Wanda started playing volleyball in her late 30's after her boys were grown. She is very committed to the sport of volleyball, as she drives 45 minutes twice every weekend to participate in pickup games at Liberty Park in Madison, Mississippi, to practice with the Jackson volleyball players. Wanda also goes to Meridian to play with the area volleyball competitors. In her commitment to volleyball, she travels to many of the popular tournament venues, such as Coconut Beach in New Orleans, Louisiana; Mangos in Baton Rouge, Louisiana; and Fudpuckers in Ft. Walton Beach, Florida; and any other tournaments that she can find throughout the southeast; and
WHEREAS, for the last couple of years, Wanda has been competing with a foot injury, but her passion and love for the sport does not allow her to quit. Wanda's drive and excitement is seen by all other fellow participants; and
WHEREAS, she is always eager to encourage newcomers to participate in the sport. "I love to see Wanda at tournaments and really enjoy each time I have the opportunity to play with or against her," says volleyball commissioner and athlete Scott Gray. "Everyone admires her dedication and enthusiasm"; and
WHEREAS, Wanda is an inspiration to all -- male, female, young or old. She is volleyball at its best. Wanda has competed in the State Games of Mississippi for 10 years and has received Gold, Silver and Bronze Medals in both the men's and women's divisions; and
WHEREAS, Wanda demonstrates the true spirit of the State Games of Mississippi as she is committed to doing her best, enjoys the competition and has respect for the athletes, volunteers and staff who work, plan and implement this annual classic; and
WHEREAS, it is with pride that we recognize and commend this amateur athlete who has brought honor to her community and to the State of Mississippi:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES CONCURRING THEREIN, That we do hereby commend and congratulate Wanda Johnson on being selected as the 2006 State Games of Mississippi BellSouth Female Athlete of the Year and express our heartiest wishes for continued success in all her future endeavors.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That this resolution be presented to Wanda Johnson, and made available to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.