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TO AUTHORIZE THE COMMISSIONING OF A PORTRAIT TO BE PLACED IN THE SENATE CHAMBER OF THE HONORABLE JOHN WESLEY MATTHEWS, JR., OF BOWMAN IN ORANGEBURG COUNTY, A SELFLESS AND DEDICATED SENATOR FROM THE THIRTY-NINTH SENATORIAL DISTRICT AND A DISTINGUISHED STATESMAN DESERVING PROPER RECOGNITION BY THE SENATE AND THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA.
Whereas, the Honorable John Wesley Matthews, Jr., has proven to be a notable public servant and a dedicated and loving husband, father, and grandfather; and
Whereas, Senator Matthews has served the citizens of this State through his career in the public school system, as a small business owner, and as a member of the House of Representatives from 1975 through 1984 and member of the Senate from 1985 to present; and
Whereas, in the legislature, he has been a distinguished and dedicated member of many committees, where his work to improve education and the economic welfare of every citizen of this State are among the most notable. He continues to distinguish himself as a member of the Senate Education, Finance, Banking & Insurance, Agriculture & Natural Resources, Ethics and Interstate Cooperation Committees; and
Whereas, his service has been recognized by many awards, including the Distinguished Alumni Award from South Carolina State University; Orangeburg County Democrat of the Year; Minority Business Advocate of the Year from the United States Small Business Administration; South Carolina Black Hall of Fame induction; South Carolina Primary Health Care Legislator of the Year; Orangeburg Chapter NAACP Exceptional Legislative Service Award; Congressman Clyburn and Congressman John Spratt Public Service Award; South Carolina Alliance for Mobile Infrastructure Elected Official of the Year; National Trends and Services Award for the Orangeburg Chapter of the Links, Inc.; David H. Wilkins Award for Excellence in Legislative Leadership; and honorary doctorates from the Medical University of South Carolina, South Carolina State University, and the College of Charleston; and
Whereas, Senator Matthews is proof to all citizens that, through commitment, hard work, and dedication, each individual can make a difference; and
Whereas, the Honorable John Wesley Matthews, Jr., is deserving of permanent recognition and honor for his service to this State. Now, therefore,
Be it resolved by the Senate:
That the members of the South Carolina Senate authorize the commissioning of a portrait of the Honorable John Wesley Matthews, Jr., of Bowman in Orangeburg County to be hung in the Senate Chamber as a tribute to this great South Carolinian and distinguished statesman. The portrait shall measure no more than thirty-six inches high and thirty-two inches wide.
Be it further resolved that a portrait committee of seven members of the Senate be appointed by the President of the Senate. The senior member of the committee shall serve as its chairman. The committee shall handle the arrangements and details of the hanging of a portrait, including, but not limited to, the location for the portrait and an appropriate ceremony to commemorate the unveiling and dedication of the portrait. The cost of obtaining the portrait must be paid by private contributions.
Be it further resolved that the Clerk of the Senate shall provide assistance and services as the committee shall direct.
Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to the Honorable John Wesley Matthews, Jr.
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