MS SC658

Commends Dr. William Earl Malone, O.D., of Biloxi, Mississippi, for being named 2009 Mississippi Optometrist of the Year and Optometrist of the South by the Southern Council of Optometrists (SECO).

Recognizes Dr. Malone's 40-year private optometry practice, service as Adjunct Professor at Southern College for 9 years, and leadership roles in the Mississippi Optometric Association and State Board of Optometry.

Acknowledges his extensive charitable work including vision screening projects (600+ screened in one year with 90 referrals), international eye care missions in Mexico, Honduras and Bolivia (dispensing 4,000+ glasses over 3 years), and work with Coastal Family Health Center providing care to uninsured and low-income patients.

Notes his service as President of the Biloxi Lions Club, organizing vision screenings for 300 children with 45 referrals, and receiving multiple Lions Club awards including "Lion of the Year" and "Distinguished Service" Award.

Endorses his nomination for the American Optometric Association's "Optometrist of the Year" Award and directs the resolution be presented to Dr. Malone and relevant optometry organizations.