House Resolution 56

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING HORN LAKE NATIVE JESSE WIMS UPON REPRESENTING THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI AT THE 2018 SPECIAL OLYMPICS NATIONAL GAMES IN SEATTLE, WASHINGTON, ON JULY 1-6, 2018, AND CONGRATULATING HIM UPON WINNING FOUR GOLD MEDALS IN WEIGHTLIFTING.

WHEREAS, from July 1-6, 2018, Horn Lake, Mississippi native, Jesse Wims wonderfully represented the majestic Magnolia State at the 2018 Special Olympics National Games in Seattle, Washington; and

WHEREAS, among more than 4,000 athletes to participate in the national event, Jesse Wims, a powerlifting competitor, along with Dan Arata and his twin brother Daniel, both members of Ole Miss Unified Champion flag football team, qualified for nationals during the Special Olympics of Mississippi 2017 Summer Games; and

WHEREAS, Jesse's presence in Seattle was determined by a raffle draw that he was able to be a part of after winning the gold medal in powerlifting at the state level, and after his name was drawn from the raffle, his success at nationals was unstoppable; and

WHEREAS, destined for greatness, Jesse won not one but four gold medals in his weight class at the 2018 Special Olympics USA Games, where he lifted 220 pounds in the weightlifting squats divisions, bench pressed 143.5 pounds and deadlifted 308 pounds, proving that 668 pounds are no match for his brute strength, unparalleled determination and athletic prowess; and

WHEREAS, Mississippi's Special Olympians are supported by numerous family members, area directors and many other dedicated volunteers, and have the added support of the entire state whose citizens are their biggest fans, and regard them each as champions, regardless of the outcome of competition; and

WHEREAS, through his active participation in the Special Olympics for the past several years, this marvelous individual is afforded an opportunity and encouraged to further develop his physical and mental skills, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in the sharing of gifts of skills and friendships with his family, other Special Olympics athletes and the community; and

WHEREAS, in Special Olympics the emphasis is not upon the physical strength, speed or endurance of the human body, but upon their faith, spirit and determination that bespeaks the true character and worth of all human beings; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the House of Representatives to recognize excellence, especially when evidenced by the citizens of this state, such as this dynamic Special Olympics athlete and Mississippian, Jesse Wims:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby commend Horn Lake native Jesse Wims upon representing the State of Mississippi at the 2018 Special Olympics National Games in Seattle, Washington, on July 1-6, 2018, congratulate him upon winning four gold medals in weightlifting and extend best wishes for continued success in all of his future endeavors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to Jesse Wims, Special Olympics Mississippi and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.