AL HR116

Commemorates the life and death of Ms. Cleretta Arizana Thomas-Blackmon, who died on February 2, 2022, at age 82.

Recognizes her role as publisher and operator of The Mobile Beacon, Alabama's oldest family-owned African American newspaper, founded by her parents Frank P. Thomas and Lancie M. Thomas.

Highlights her extensive service on multiple boards and committees including the National Newspaper Publishers Association, Alabama Press Association, National Council of Negro Women, NAACP, and Epilepsy Foundation of Alabama.

Notes her education at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan with degrees in Business Administration, Psychology, and Journalism, and her prior work as a social worker.

Expresses sympathy to her surviving family members: son Hjordis Blackmon, daughter Merina Blackmon, grandson Justin Bankston, and other relatives and friends.