MS SC582

Salutes and memorializes businessmen and community leaders who established Jackson's automotive marketplace following World War II through the mid-1970s.

Recognizes named automotive dealership owners including T.G. Blackwell, James E. Fowler, Thad Ryan, Dick Whitehurst, and others who created businesses, invested in community development (retail shopping areas, housing, office buildings), and generated tax revenue for Jackson and Mississippi.

Honors African-American pioneers called "The Ice Breakers" who entered the automotive sales field in the early 1970s, including Johnny Morrow (first African-American wholesaler in Mississippi), Harvey Dorsey (first African-American salesman), Tom Allen (first African-American general manager), and Winston Pittman (first African-American dealership owner).

Recognizes the civic contributions and decades-long service records of African-American automotive industry leaders, many with 40+ years in the profession.

Directs presentation of the resolution to Johnny Morrow and distribution to the Mississippi Development Authority and Mississippi Automobile Dealers Association.