WHEREAS, Jahmal Potter, a Virginia Beach native and budding children's book author, published his first book in October 2018; and

WHEREAS, a graduate of the University of Virginia's College at Wise, Jahmal Potter fell in love with Southwest Virginia and became inspired to write a children's book drawn from the region's folklore; and

WHEREAS, Jahmal Potter's story, Where is the Woodbooger?, playfully recounts a search for the Bigfoot-like mythical creature believed to reside in and around Wise County and the City of Norton; and

WHEREAS, in recent years, the City of Norton has embraced the Woodbooger, erecting a statue in its honor and officially designating the Flag Rock Recreation Area a "Woodbooger Sanctuary"; and

WHEREAS, prompted by this local zeal, Jahmal Potter wrote a story to enchant young minds throughout the Commonwealth and promote the regional culture and geography of Wise County and the City of Norton; and

WHEREAS, in addition to his talents as a writer, Jahmal Potter is also an accomplished disc jockey with his own company, JGreat Entertainment, delighting audiences at many weddings, parties, and functions in the community; and

WHEREAS, as an advocate for reading and children's education, Jahmal Potter has visited several schools throughout the Commonwealth, encouraging students to open their eyes, use their imaginations, and fall in love with learning; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, That Jahmal Potter, a children's book author from Virginia Beach, hereby be commended for his efforts to motivate the youth of the Commonwealth to read; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Jahmal Potter as an expression of the House of Delegates' admiration for his achievements and best wishes for the future.