G. K. Butterfield: “I rise this morning to recognize three of my constituents who are all celebrating birthday 100 very, very soon. Mrs.…”

“I rise this morning to recognize three of my constituents who are all celebrating birthday 100 very, very soon. Mrs. Cora Jones ``Boot'' McLeod, Mrs. Christine Johnson Umstead, and Mrs. Annie Belle Gilmore Rogers are all members of historic Mount Vernon Baptist Church located in Durham, North Carolina, pastored by my friend Dr. Jerome J. Washington. These centenarians, Mr. Speaker, will soon celebrate their birthdays, surrounded by family and friends. These women have committed much of their lives to the development of their family and community. They are devout Christians of the missionary baptist faith who love their church. Mrs. Cora Jones Boot McLeod was born on August 8, 1918, in Raleigh, North Carolina, and attended Rosenwald Schools. She started her own business in Durham as a professional beautician. Mrs. McLeod has spent all of her life encouraging her family and community to be independent and faithful in their pursuits. Her leadership is reflected in the business community and at her beloved Mount Vernon Baptist Church, where she served as church usher. Mrs. Christine Johnson Umstead was born on August 16, 1918, in Roxboro, North Carolina, located in Person County, just north of Durham. She came to Durham as a food service professional. In retirement, she has encouraged others to become active senior citizens by setting an example and providing motivation to all. Mrs. Umstead joined Mount Vernon in 1948 and has remained an active church member.…”