Psalm 55 says, “Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustainyou; he will never let the righteous fall.”

The history of African Americans in the United States is a tale ofcourage and determination. It is the story of people who rose fromthe depths of slavery and overcame prejudice and injustice toachieve liberty, opportunity and a better life. African Americanhistory begins in our country in 1619. In August of that year, aDutch ship stopped in Jamestown, Va., and sold 20 Africans to theEnglish colonists there.

For many generations, most black people in America served asslaves. The milestones of black history mark the journey of blacksfrom enslavement and hardship to freedom and achievement. Lawseventually ended slavery and gave rights to blacks shortly afterthe end of the Civil War. But blacks were still not treated fairlyin many places. Civil Rights groups like the NAACP were founded tohelp blacks and other minorities gain an equal treatment. Eventhough much progress has been made, the work of Civil Rights groupsand other people continues today.

Did you know? High V. Belton Sr. was born to the late Odell andMamie Belton in Lincoln County. He was educated at Alexander HighSchool and served his country well in the U.S. Army as a paramedic.He attended barber college in New Orleans. After completion heopened his first barbershop in Brookhaven in 1967. He served thecommunity in the same location for more than 40 years. Hugh V.trained and mentored many barbers in the city and was wellrespected for his barbering skills and quality of service. Duringhis tenure as a barber he also served the city of Brookhaven as apolice officer. His family and friends remember and cherish themany memorable occasions that they had with him. We salute thememory of Hugh V. Belton for his works.

Did you know? James Weldon Johnson an American author wrote thelyrics for the song, “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” that is known asthe Black National Anthem.

Did you know? James Earl Jones was born in Arkabutla Township onJan. 17, 1931. He is a famous actor and is popular for his role inthe movie, “Roots.” Today his deep rich voice is recognized bypeople everywhere.

Did you know? Curnis Upkins Sr. was born Nov. 30, 1926. God blessedhim for 83 years to till and toil on this earth. He was married tothe former Doris Watkins Upkins for 48 years and they are theparents of seven children. Upkins taught his children how to workat an early age, and the boys how to plow. He even let them join inthe fun of hunting with him. He was a member of Tangipahoa FreewillBaptist Church for more than 68 years, where he served as a deacon.He also attended Chisholm Mission A.M.E. Church faithfully with hiswife. Through the years, Mr. and Mrs. Upkins enjoyed their childrenand their spouses, and grandchildren.

Did you know? David Corley Sr. was born to the late Hosea and EthelCorley. He was educated in the Lincoln County School System. He metand married Mary Louise Markham and they are the parents of sixsons. They moved to New Orleans, La., where they resided untilhurricane Katrina impacted the city and forced them to relocate toCrystal Springs. Corley was a great storyteller and hisembellishment of a situation kept everyone laughing. He broughttruth to the saying, “Laughter is good for the soul.” He enjoyedfishing, cooking and gardening. People would stop in awe to ask fortips and advice from the man with the “green thumb,” which was goodbecause Corley never passed on an opportunity to enjoy a goodconversation.

Did you know? B.B. King is a famous American blues singer and aguitarist. He was born near Itta Bena in a cabin on aplantation.

Did you know? Walter Payton was a famous running back for theChicago Bears. He became the leading rusher in the NationalFootball League history. He broke many records and set some of hisown during his career. Payton was born in Columbia. He was a starrunning back at Jackson State University in Jackson during hiscollege career. He died in 1999 at the age of 45.

Did you know? Leontyne Price was the first black soprano to achieveinternational status. Her accomplishments also opened doors forother aspiring black women in the field of opera. Price was born inLaurel on Feb. 10, 1927.

There are many more known black achievers and even more aspiringones.

If you have any Loyd Star area news to report, contact CarolynBeard Humphries at 601-833-5753.