Sanford Bishop

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Chair, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Chair, I claim time in opposition to this amendment.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Madam Chair, I demand a recorded vote.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Chair, this amendment would prohibit USDA from implementing an executive order on tackling the climate crisis. This year, our country has experienced more billion-dollar climate disasters than ever before in our history. In only the first 8 months of the year, 23 weather disasters devastated regions across the country, and in every case, the agricultural sector was harmed. This summer, we witnessed catastrophic floods in the Northeast decimate farmers' crops. Extreme drought in the West continues to impact ranchers' ability to sustain their livestock. Tragically, we watched helplessly as the Maui wildfires ravaged thousands of acres of farmland and took nearly 100 human lives. This amendment would block Federal efforts to help farmers develop climate-smart agricultural and forestry practices that are critical to combating the climate crisis. If we are to address the climate crisis, help farmers, and strengthen our economy, we cannot be hamstrung by funding limitations that deny that climate change is real. Mr. Chair, I urge my colleagues to oppose this amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Chair, I demand a recorded vote.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Madam Chair, I claim time in opposition to the amendment.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Madam Chair, I rise in opposition to this amendment. The amendment would attempt to cut overall funding of the bill by an additional $717 million. Not only that but it would do so without specifying where the cuts would come from. This would effectively turn the decision from where the cuts would come from over to the executive branch, to the administration that the other side is so critical of, robbing Congress of its constitutionally mandated power of the purse, a violation of the separation of powers. This is something that we should not include in any appropriations bill. The bill already guts funding for USDA, and any further cuts would just make a bad bill worse. We should kill this amendment. We should enact a reasonable, responsible appropriations bill so that we can take care of the needs of the American people and make sure that the Department of Agriculture is adequately funded to serve the needs of the American people. Madam Chair, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding citizen of Macon, Georgia--a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother; a dedicated volunteer; and distinguished servant leader in her community, Mrs. Carolyn Mullis Crayton. Mrs. Crayton was honored with the Distinguished Citizen Award by the Central Georgia Council of the Boy Scouts of America on August 24, 2023. The Awards Ceremony and Dinner was held at the Anderson Conference Center in Macon, Georgia. Originally from North Carolina, Mrs. Crayton moved to Macon in the early 1970s where she quickly got involved in the community. An ardent advocate for city beautification, she founded the Keep Macon-Bibb Beautiful Commission, which in 1974, partnered as an affiliate with Keep America Beautiful. Today, Mrs. Crayton serves on the Board of Directors of Keep America Beautiful, an organization she has been involved with for more than half a century. Similarly, the Keep Macon- Bibb Beautiful Commission remains a strong force in the local community. Upon her first visit to Macon in 1970, Mrs. Crayton and her husband, Lee Crayton, fell in love with the city and saw its potential as a bastion of culture and beauty. Perhaps most notably, Mrs. Crayton was struck by the beauty of the Yoshino cherry trees that lined some of the local streets. Over the next decade, thousands of these beautiful trees were planted all over Macon, thanks to the generosity of Mr. William Fickling, Sr., an influential Macon resident and ``Father of Cherry Blossoms.'' In 1982, Mrs. Crayton capitalized on this pink horticultural phenomenon by organizing a weekend celebration to give thanks to Mr. Fickling on his birthday for his contributions to the city's beautification. This event would go on to be celebrated every year as the International Cherry Blossom Festival, a week-long festival with the noble theme of ``love, beauty, and international friendship.'' Additionally, as the Yoshino cherry tree is native to Japan, Mrs. Crayton formed close ties with Japanese leaders and every year honors their representatives at the festival, demonstrating the strong bond and values shared by both nations. Thanks to Mrs. Crayton, the International Cherry Blossom Festival is now a cherished institution throughout Middle Georgia, and I couldn't be more pleased with its success in bringing the community together. Mrs. Crayton has had a positive impact on any project she has had the opportunity to work on. Over the years she has served on countless boards and community service activities to include: the International Festivals and Events Association; the Museum of Aviation Board of Directors, serving as the first female board chair; the Macon Rescue Mission; Middle Georgia State University Foundation Board of Trustees; the Vineville Garden Club; the Wesleyan Wood Garden Club; and serving under the past four governors as an at-large Board Member for the State of Georgia Department of Community Affairs. Truly, the state of Georgia is a better place thanks to Mrs. Crayton's hard work and dedication to her community. It has often been said that ``Service is the rent that we pay for the space we occupy here on this earth.'' Mrs. Carolyn Crayton has paid her rent, continues to pay that rent, and has received numerous awards and recognitions for which she can be proud. She received the Lady Bird Johnson Award for her hard work and dedication to keeping her community's environment pristine and welcoming; the ``Woman of Distinction'' Award by the Middle Georgia Girl Scout Council; Georgia Festival Director of the Year and the Emerson Award from National Arbor Day Foundation. She has also received international awards for work and expertise, including the Queen Mother's Award (United Kingdom); the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold, and Silver Rays from the Japanese Foreign Ministry; and the Japanese American Appreciation Award. Perhaps even more notable than the long list of accolades and awards Mrs. Crayton has earned over the years, is the fact that she inspired new generations of leadership and had several awards named after herself. These include the Carolyn Crayton Keep Macon-Bibb Beautiful Commission Award; the Carolyn Crayton Cherry Blossom Festival Award; Keep Georgia Beautiful's Carolyn Crayton ``Woman of the Year'' and the Keep America Beautiful's Carolyn Crayton Award. Additionally, in 2020 the city of Macon named the park which serves as the grounds for the International Cherry Blossom Festival after Mrs. Crayton for her decades of service and ambassadorship for the city. Situated across the Ocmulgee River from the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park, Carolyn Crayton Park is one of Macon's most visited attractions thanks to the work Mrs. Crayton has done with the annual Cherry Blossom festival. Mrs. Crayton has accomplished so much in her life, but none of it would have been possible without the grace of God and her late husband, Lee. Mr. and Mrs. Crayton raised two children--Douglas Crayton and Annette Crayton Mengert. They are the proud grandparents of four and have four great-grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in the House of Representatives join my wife Vivian, and me, along with the 765,000 people of Georgia's Second Congressional District, in honoring and commending Mrs. Carolyn Mullis Crayton for her outstanding decades of service to the city of Macon, the people of Georgia, and humankind. May God continue to bless her and her family in the days, weeks, and months ahead.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding musician, dedicated educator, committed community servant, and dear friend of longstanding, Ms. Jacqulyn Saunders. She will be honored at the Chancel Choir's 60th Anniversary Gospel Concert at First Missionary Baptist Church of Thomasville, Georgia, on Sunday, August 6th, 2023. Jacqulyn Saunders has used her life's work to help others to reach their full potential through music, theater, and education. It has been said that ``Service is the rent that we pay for the space that we occupy here on this Earth.'' Ms. Saunders has paid her rent, and she has paid it well. Ms. Saunders graduated from Morris Brown College in 1973 with a B.A. degree in English. During her matriculation at Morris Brown, she was initiated into the sisterhood of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sorority Inc., which makes her a Golden Soror. She was also a member of the Morris Brown College Wolverine Marching Band. Her love of knowledge and learning took her academic pursuits to the University of Georgia, Valdosta State College, (now University) Walden University, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she received her M.S. in Counseling Education in 1988. Ms. Saunders has had a long and storied career as an educator that began in 1973. She has served in many roles during her professional career to include, instructor of English and Social Studies, English Language and Literature instructor, instructor of English Communications, Career Advisor Coordinator/Career Advisor, Counselor/ Teacher, Upward Bound Counselor, Student Support Team and 504 Coordinator, 9th and 10th Grade Counselor and PK-5 Counselor. Her professional stops during her educational journey have included Brooks County Junior High School, Thomas County, Turn Around School, The University of Wisconsin, Thomas County Central High School, Thomas University, Thomasville High School, and J.K. Harper Elementary School. Ms. Saunders had a brief respite from her educational career from 1984- 86 where she served in several roles at National Savings and Trust Bank in Washington, D.C. But she quickly returned to her first love of education. A wonderful woman of God, Ms. Saunders served as church musician for Ochlocknee and Piney Grove Missionary Baptist Churches from 1959-69. From 1959 through the present, she has served as a church musician for Mercy Seat Christian and First Missionary Baptist Churches. She also has been a member of the acclaimed Georgia Mass Choir since 1981. In addition, she has expanded her horizons in the performing arts by appearing in the 1996 movie, ``The Preacher's Wife,'' which starred Denzel Washington and Whitney Houston, and she also appeared in the Broadway play ``Why Do Good Girls Like Bad Boys?'' She has also broadened her horizons by traveling and participating in an international tour of France, England, Spain, and Italy. Amidst all her other activities, she has always found time to give back to her community. Jacqulyn Saunders has paid her rent, and she has paid it well. Through her beloved Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., she has given her time, treasure, and talent to many community initiatives. Ms. Saunders founded the Lambda Xi Chapter of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and served as its Basileus from 1977 through 79 and 1992 through 93. She is an example of what can happen when one carries out God's purpose for her life. Jacqulyn Saunders has exemplified a life of service to God using her many talents to touch the lives of countless souls fortunate enough to cross paths with her. She has done so much for so many for so long. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join my wife, Vivian, and me, along with the members of the Chancel Choir, First Missionary Baptist Church of Thomasville, Georgia, as well as the 765,000 people of the Second Congressional District, in honoring and commending Ms. Jacqulyn Saunders for her commitments to God, her community, and to humankind.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a dedicated husband, loving father, doting grandfather, astute entrepreneur, esteemed educator and friend of longstanding, South Georgia Technical College President Emeritus, Gary Lamar ``Sparky'' Reeves. Sadly, President Reeves transitioned this life from labor to reward on August 2, 2023. A funeral service celebrating his remarkable life was held at 2:00 pm on Sunday, August 6, 2023, at First Methodist Church in Americus, Georgia. The genesis of Sparky Reeves' life began on March 27, 1949, as he was born to the union of Earl and Odessa Devereaux Reeves in Zebulon, Georgia. Born a fighter, as an infant, he defied the odds with the removal of an intestinal tumor at Egleston Hospital. His parents were told by doctors that he would not live to be four years old, but he did. Sparky, as he was named by his little league baseball coach because he reminded him of a spark plug, was a dedicated Boy Scout, ultimately becoming an Eagle Scout in 1964. He graduated from Robert Lee High School on May 30, 1967. Sparky then attended Georgia Southwestern College where he was active in intramural sports, was a member of the Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity and was elected Archon of the Gamma Xi Chapter. Sparky graduated with a bachelor's degree in business administration and obtained his Master's degree in 1973. A lifelong learner, Sparky also attended the University of Georgia, Georgia Tech, and Dekalb College. The most significant experience of his life was during his college years when he met the love of his life, Patricia Allene Camp. They were married on August 8, 1971, and enjoyed 52 years of marriage. Today is the anniversary of that blessed union. After graduation, Sparky worked as a salesman for Altair Homes. His professional career ascended when he came to South Georgia Technical College in 1973. He served as an instructor, supervisor, and Vice President of Economic Development prior to being named President in 2004. Sparky served as President from August 2004 through September, 2015. He had many accomplishments during his time as president to include: growing the college's foundation from $3.7 million to $8.2 million in assets; increasing the number of endowed scholarships from 8 to 22; increasing the scholarships from 52 to more than 150 and founding the President's Club which exceeded $1 million in annual gifts. The ultimate collaborator and facilitator, President Reeves established ``Two Great Choices'', an initiative that created a partnership between South Georgia Technical College, Georgia Southwestern State University, the City of Americus, Sumter County, and local businesses. He and Allene established an endowed scholarship at the college, making him the first President to do so. He also served on the Technical College System of Georgia State Foundation Board following his retirement until 2022. Sparky was the first President in the Technical College System of Georgia to earn the title, ``President Emeritus.'' It has been said that ``Service is the rent that we pay for the space that we occupy here on this Earth.'' Sparky paid his rent, and he paid it well. Because of his lifetime of service to others, he received many awards and honors to include: The Americus Kiwanis Club Award; Americus-Sumter County Chamber of Commerce Volunteer of the Year; Boy Scouts of America Distinguished Citizen Award; Business Council of Georgia Achievement Award; Governor, South Georgia District Collegiate Civitan Club; GSW Aeolian Award; GSW Kaleidoscope Award; Outstanding Eagle Scout and Order of the Arrow; Outstanding Service Award and Inaugural Sparky Reeves Sumter Trustee Lifetime Achievement Award; President of GSW Civitan Club; Rotary Club Outstanding Citizen Award; Rotary Club ``Paul Harris Fellow''; Sam Walton Business Leader; and Technical College Foundation of Georgia Benefactor of the Year. George Washington Carver once said that ``How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving, and tolerant of the weak and the strong. Because someday in your life you will have been all of these.'' This is how Sparky Reeves lived his life. He treated people the way they deserved to be treated and God blessed him beyond measure. Through many difficulties in his life from an intestinal tumor, quintuple heart bypass surgery, cardiac arrest, and leukemia, he never complained and always lived by the motto: ``Every Day is Special.'' Sparky accomplished much in his life but none of it would have been possible without the grace of God, the love and support of his beloved wife of 52 years Allene, and his three children, Kevin, Amanda, and Ryan. On a personal note, Sparky was my friend. Over the years, he gave me wise counsel, for which I will be forever grateful. Likewise, during his life, Sparky did so much for so many for so long. He touched countless lives and because he did, the world is a better place. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join my wife, and me, along with the more than 765,000 people of the Second Congressional District in extending our deepest condolences to the family of President Emeritus Gary Lamar ``Sparky'' Reeves, his friends and all who mourn his loss. May we all be consoled and comforted by an abiding faith and the Holy Spirit in the days, weeks, and months ahead.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding musician, dedicated educator, committed community servant, and dear friend of longstanding, Ms. Jacqueline Saunders. She will be honored at the Chancel Choir's 60th Anniversary Gospel Concert at First Missionary Baptist Church of Thomasville, Georgia on Sunday, August 6, 2023. Jacqueline Saunders has used her life's work to help others to reach their full potential through music, theatre, and education. It has been said that ``Service is the rent that we pay for the space that we occupy here on this earth.'' Ms. Saunders has paid her rent, and she has paid it well. Ms. Saunders graduated from Morris Brown College in 1973 with a B.A. Degree in English. During her matriculation at Morris Brown, she was initiated into the sisterhood of Alpha Kappa Kappa Sorority Inc., which makes her a Golden Soror. She was also a member of the Morris Brown College Wolverine Marching Band. Her love of knowledge and learning took her academic pursuits to the University of Georgia, Valdosta State College (Now University), Walden University, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she received her M.S. in Counseling Education in 1988. Ms. Saunders has had a long and storied career as an educator that began in 1973. She has served in many roles during her professional career to include, Instructor of English and Social Studies, English Language and Literature Instructor, Instructor of English Communications, Career Advisor Coordinator/Career Adviser, Counselor/ Teacher, Upward Bound Counselor, Student Support Team and 504 Coordinator, 9th and 10th Grade Counselor and PK-5 Counselor. Her professional stops during her educational journey have included Brooks County Junior High School, Thomas County, Turn Around School, The University of Wisconsin, Thomas County Central High School, Thomas University, Thomasville High School, and J.K. Harper Elementary School. Ms. Saunders had a brief respite from her educational career from 1984 to 86 where she served in several roles at National Savings and Trust Bank in Washington, D.C. but she quickly returned to her first love of education. A wonderful woman of God, Ms. Saunders served as Church Musician for Ochlocknee and Piney Grove Missionary Baptist Churches from 1959-69. From 1959 through the present, she has served as a Church musician for Mercy Seat Christian and First Missionary Baptist Churches. She also has been a member of the acclaimed Georgia Mass Choir since 1981. In addition, she has expanded her horizons in the performing arts by appearing in the 1996 movie, ``The Preacher's Wife,'' which starred Denzel Washington and Whitney Houston, and she also appeared in the Broadway play ``Why Do Good Girls Like Bad Boys?'' She has also broadened her horizons by traveling and participating in an international tour of France, England, Spain, and Italy. Amidst all her other activities, she has always found time to give back to her community. ``It has been said that service is the rent we pay for the space we occupy on this earth.'' Jacqueline Saunders has paid her rent, and she has paid it well! Through her beloved Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., she has given her time, treasure, and talent to many community initiatives. Ms. Saunders founded the Lambda Xi Chapter of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and served as its Basileus from 1977 to 79 and 1992 to 93. She is an example of what can happen when 1 carries out God's purpose for her life. Jacqueline Saunders has exemplified a life of service to God using her many talents to touch the lives of countless souls fortunate enough to cross paths with her. She has done so much for so many for so long. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join my wife Vivian, and I, along with the members of the Chancel Choir, First Missionary Baptist Church of Thomasville, Georgia, as well as the 765,000 people of the Second Congressional District, in honoring and commending Ms. Jacqueline Sanders for her commitments to God, her community, and to humankind.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize, a dedicated servant leader, seasoned business executive, faithful civil rights activist, great strategic thinker, loving husband, committed father, and friend of longstanding, Thomas (Tommy) Christopher Chatmon, Jr. Sadly, Tommy transitioned this life from labor to reward on July 22, 2023. A homegoing service celebrating his remarkable life will be held on Saturday, August 5, 2023, at The Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Albany, Georgia. Thomas (Tommy) Chistopher Chatmon, Jr was born in Albany, Georgia, on December 19, 1954, the third of 5 children to the late Thomas C. Chatmon, Sr., and Alma Chatmon. Raised in a God-fearing family, he became a member of Bethel AME Church, where he was a lifelong member and sang in the choir. His first fruits of education came as a student at the Hazard Laboratory School for Primary Education and St. Teresa's Catholic School in Albany. Tommy was also a product of the Dougherty County School System, graduating from Albany High School in 1972. Tommy made history while at Albany High School, becoming the marching band's first African American drum major. His love of music continued, and he delayed college after graduating with honors to travel with a band called Eden from 1968 to 1974. In 1974, Tommy followed in his father's footsteps by attending our Alma Mater, Morehouse College. He graduated from Morehouse in 1979 with a bachelor's degree in political science. One of Tommy's proudest moments at Morehouse was when he was selected to serve as a U.S. Congressional Intern, in the office of United States Congresswoman Cardiss Hortense Collins. After graduating from Morehouse, Tommy returned to his hometown roots in Albany to operate a family-owned business, Chatmon's Beauty Supply, Inc. He was a great strategic entrepreneur and as Chief Operating Officer for 17 years, he helped grow the family business to 10 retail locations in 4 different states. Tommy's professional career also took him to work as the District Manager for the Georgia Census Bureau in 1980. In 1984, he was the Campaign Manager for Standup Strain's bid for Dougherty County Sheriff. Tommy cemented his bonafides during this time as a deeply respected political figure and social activist, once again following in the footsteps of his father; who had been active in the Albany Civil Rights Movement. In 1998, when leaders in Albany decided to revitalize the city's downtown area by forming Albany Tomorrow, Inc., Tommy was selected to serve as its Executive Director. Forever a visionary and forward thinker, he was able to bring people and projects together for downtown to include the Hilton Garden Inn, The Flint River Aquarium, The Ray Charles Plaza, Turtle Grove Park, SKATE Park, The Albany Law Enforcement Center and Police Headquarters, Department of Human Resources Administrative Building, The Central Square, The Science Discovery Children's Museum, parking garages for the downtown business district, and The Dougherty County School Board Administrative Building. Tommy's proudest moment as the Executive Director was the groundbreaking of the Albany Civil Rights Institute, which tells the story of Albany's prominent role in the modern-day Civil Rights Movement. As his good friend Glenn Singfield put it, ``There wouldn't be an Albany today without Albany Tomorrow, and there wouldn't have been an Albany Tomorrow without Tommy Chatmon.'' Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, ``Faith is sometimes taking the first step without seeing the full staircase.'' In 2007, Thomas took a step on faith with the lessons he learned in his stint with Albany Tomorrow carrying his creative talents to Orlando, Florida, where the mayor appointed him as Executive Director of the Downtown Development Board/Community Redevelopment Agency. In this role, Tommy oversaw economic development for the Community Redevelopment Agency. He played a crucial role in achieving some of downtown Orlando's premier development in retail and business recruitment, marketing and special events programming, and housing development within the Community Redevelopment Area to include: The Amway Center, The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Sun Rail, Chase,' Plaza, Church Street Plaza, Citi Tower, Creative Village, 55 West, and many more. It has been said that ``service is the rent that we pay for the space that we occupy here on this earth.'' Tommy Chatmon paid his rent, and he paid it well. He gave his time, talent, and treasure to numerous social and civil organizations, serving as Chair of Homeless Service Network of Central Florida Board, and the Starter Studio Board, The International Downtown Association (IDA), Nap Ford Community School, MyRegion.ORG, WMFW Community Advisory Board, and the Central Florida Urban League Board. Tommy has been honored for his dedicated Community service to include Orlando's ``10 Businessmen to Watch'' and Orlando Magazine's ``50 Most Powerful People'', Georgia Trend Magazine's 100 Most Influential Georgians, Martin Luther King Celebration Leadership Award, and the Leadership Albany Outstanding Alumni Award. Tommy accomplished much in his life, but none of it would have been possible without the grace of God, the love and support of his elementary school sweetheart, his beloved wife Brenetta, and his three children, Yvonne, Brittany, and Cory. On a personal note, Tommy was my friend, my Morehouse brother, and longtime supporter. Over the years, he gave me wise counsel, for which I will be forever grateful. Likewise, during his life, Tommy did so much for so many for so long. He touched countless lives, and because he did, the world is a better place. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join my wife Vivian and me, along with the 765,000 people of the 2nd Congressional District, in extending our deepest condolences to the family of Mr. Thomas Christopher Chatmon, Jr., his family, friends, and all who mourn his loss. May we all be consoled and comforted by an abiding faith and the Holy Spirit in the days, weeks, and months ahead.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding mentor, dedicated servant leader, faithful servant of God and dear friend of longstanding, the Reverend Dr. Gregory A. Sutton. Dr. Sutton was honored for his 53 years of faithful service at Jackson Memorial Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia, on Sunday, July 16, 2023, at 10:30 am. Dr. Sutton was born in Atlanta, Georgia. He was raised among great educators, philosophers, and theologians. Dr. Sutton was always concerned about the welfare of others and used his voice to speak out on pressing issues of the day. He began to preach the Gospel at the young age of 16. This would lay the foundation for his ministry and his destiny--the boy, the preacher, the man and the visionary. Dr. Sutton began preaching the Gospel while he was still in high school and accepted the calling to pastor a growing church called Jackson Memorial at the age of 18, where he has labored for 53 years. Through his leadership, the church has continued to expand its membership and physical footprint. Dr. Sutton has seen the expansion of the church's membership to over 6,000 members and he has overseen the construction of two new edifices for the church. Dr. Sutton's ministry is indeed a global ministry and reaches people where they are across the world. The scripture tells us in Proverbs that ``Where there is no vision the people perish . . . .'' Dr. Sutton is indeed a visionary and has used his ministry to reach people beyond the church walls. He has dedicated himself to the awareness, protection, and spiritual development of youth. Dr. Sutton was the originator of the phrase, ``Stop the Violence, Save the Youth.'' Cementing his commitment to young people and their spiritual futures, Pastor Sutton was the first pastor in the Atlanta area to open his church to students for prayer before school. He also reaches out and incorporates the needs of his elderly parishioners in his ministry. Dr. Sutton has a complete ministry that attempts to reach many different groups for Christ to include those that are in prison, the homebound, the homeless, the low income and the disenfranchised. He uses his weekly television broadcast, ``Now Is The Time,'' to reach those who would not otherwise be reachable. Dr. George Washington Carver once said that ``How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young; compassionate with the aged; sympathetic with the striving and tolerant of the weak and the strong, because someday in your life you will have been all of these.'' Dr. Sutton is acutely aware that for the Kingdom of God to be manifested in this world, it is imperative that people from all walks of life be brought into the fold and be made to feel that they matter and that Jesus Loves them. Dr. Sutton's ministry is truly a Matthew 25 ministry. Even amid his various ministerial duties, Dr. Sutton finds time to serve his community at large. It has been said that ``Service is the rent that we pay for the space that we occupy here on this earth.'' Dr. Sutton has paid his rent and he has paid it well. He serves on the board of directors of many social and civic organizations to include the Board of Ministers of Morehouse College. Reverend Dr. Gregory Sutton has achieved much in life, but none of it would have been possible without the grace of God and the love and support of his wife, First Lady Gail Sutton; his children, Theresa, Tony, Keisha and LaQuay; his three grandchildren and other family members. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join my wife, Vivian, and me, along with the people of Georgia and this nation in honoring and commending the Reverend Dr. Gregory A. Sutton for 53 years of dedicated service to his God, Jackson Memorial Baptist Church and humankind. Moreover, we pray God's continued blessings upon him, his ministry, and his family in the weeks, months, and years ahead.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding mentor, dedicated servant leader, faithful servant of God and dear friend of longstanding, the Reverend Dr. Gregory A. Sutton. Dr. Sutton will be honored for his 53 years of faithful service at Jackson Memorial Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia, on Sunday, July 16, 2023, at 10:30 am. Dr. Sutton was born in Atlanta, Georgia. He was raised among great educators, philosophers, and theologians. Dr. Sutton was always concerned about the welfare of others and used his voice to speak out on pressing issues of the day. He began to preach the Gospel at the young age of 16. This would lay the blueprint for his ministry and his destiny--the boy, the preacher, the man, and the visionary. Dr. Sutton began preaching the Gospel while he was still in high school and accepted the calling to preach a growing church called Jackson Memorial at the age of 18, where he has pastored for 53 years. Through his leadership, the church has continued to expand its membership and physical footprint. Dr. Sutton has seen the expansion of the church's membership to over 6,000 members and he has overseen the construction of 2 new edifices for the church. Dr. Sutton's ministry is indeed a global ministry and reaches people where they are across the world. The scripture tells us in Proverbs, ``that the people perish where there is no vision.'' Dr. Sutton is indeed a visionary and has used his ministry to reach people beyond the church walls. He has dedicated himself to the awareness, protection, and spiritual development of youth. Dr. Sutton was the originator of the phrase, ``Stop the Violence, Save the Youth.'' Cementing his commitment to young people and their spiritual futures, Pastor Sutton was the first pastor in the Atlanta area to open his church for prayer for students before school. He also reaches out and incorporates the needs of his elderly parishioners in his ministry. Dr. Sutton has a complete ministry that attempts to reach many different groups for Christ to include those that are in prison, the homebound, the homeless, the low income and the disenfranchised. He uses his Weekly Television Broadcast, ``Now is the Time,'' to reach those who would not otherwise be reachable. Dr. George Washington Carver once said that ``How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young; compassionate with the aged; sympathetic with the striving and tolerant of the weak and the strong, because someday in your life you will have been all of these.'' Dr. Sutton is acutely aware that for the Kingdom of God to be manifested in this world, it is imperative that people from all walks of life be brought into the fold and be made to feel that they matter and that Jesus Loves them. Dr. Sutton's ministry is truly a Matthew 25 type of ministry. Even amid his various ministerial duties, Dr. Sutton finds time to serve his community at large. It has been said that ``Service is the rent that we pay for the space that we occupy here on this earth.'' Dr. Sutton has paid his rent and he has paid it well. He serves on the board of directors of many social and civic organizations to include the Board of Ministers of Morehouse College. Reverend Dr. Gregory Sutton has achieved much in life, but none of it would have been possible without the grace of God and the love and support of this wife, First Lady Gail Sutton; his children, Theresa, Tony, Keisha, and LaQuay; his 3 grandchildren and other family members. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join my wife, Vivian, and I; along with the more than 765,000 people of Georgia's Second Congressional District in honoring and commending the Reverend Dr. Gregory A. Sutton for 53 years of dedicated service to his God, Jackson Memorial Baptist Church and humankind. Moreover, we pray God's continued blessings upon him, his ministry, and his family in the weeks, months, and years ahead.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a devoted wife, dedicated mother, and outstanding public servant, Mrs. Julia Andrews. An event celebrating her 95th birthday was held on Saturday, June 17, 2023, at 7:30 p.m. at the Renaissance Arlington Capital View Hotel in Arlington, Virginia. Mrs. Andrews is a native of Dougherty County, Georgia and she has given her life's work in service to her country. She dedicated 34 years working to support America's national security as a civilian employee at the Albany Marine Corps Logistics Base. While she was providing outstanding service at the base, she did not do so alone; when Mrs. Andrews began her tenure in 1954, she joined her husband, Goliath Andrews, in service there who began his own 35-year career at the Albany Marine Corps Logistics Base in 1952. Truly, Mr. and Mrs. Andrews exemplified patriotism and a sense of service to which all Americans aspire. It has been said that ``Service is the rent that we pay for the space that we occupy here on this earth.'' Mrs. Answers has paid her rent and she has paid it well. Her commitment to service is evident both in her career and in her retirement when she continued to seek out ways to serve her community and her country. A lifetime voting Democrat, Mrs. Andrews has been an endearing and familiar face to the residents of Dougherty County during election season. Year after year, Mrs. Andrews happily served as an election volunteer, working to help the citizens of Dougherty County successfully execute their civic duty. While exercising that civic duty, Mrs. Andrews' fellow citizens enjoyed and benefited from her warmth, kindness, and zeal. Undoubtedly, those qualities of hers have touched the lives of many whom she has volunteered to assist and has strengthened our democracy in a multitude of quiet but powerful and important ways. Mrs. Andrews is a woman after God's own heart. She is a member of the Greater Third Kiokee Baptist Church in Albany, Georgia. She has been and continues to be a stalwart of that Church, having become a member 82 years ago in 1941. The model of Christian virtue that she demonstrates by the way she lives her life has surely touched the lives of so many people and has been an inspiration to generations of fellow members of the Greater Third Kiokee Baptist Church. She truly embodies the words of Acts 9:36: ``She was abounding in good deeds and acts of charity.'' Mrs. Andrews has accomplished many things in her life, but none of these would have been possible without her faith, the love and support of her husband, Goliath Andrews, and their 4 children, Vincent Andrews, Cynthia Buckley, Janice Thomas, and the late Larry Andrews. Mrs. Andrews is the proud matriarch of a loving and growing family that now spans across several generations. Many members of that family lovingly came to Arlington, Virginia on June 17, 2023, to celebrate her. I have no doubt that they would not have missed the chance to celebrate her for the world. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join my wife, Vivian, and I along with the more than 765,000 people of the Second Congressional District in extending our sincerest appreciation and best wishes to Mrs. Julia Andrews on her 95th Birthday and for her phenomenal service to God and Humankind. May God continue to bless her and her family.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life of a dedicated husband, loving father, humble public servant, and friend of longstanding, the Honorable Charles Hobby Stripling, Sr. Sadly, Hobby transitioned this life on July 3, 2023. A homegoing service celebrating the life of this remarkable man was held at 10:00 a.m. on July 7, 2023, at the Vienna United Methodist Church in Vienna, Georgia. Charles Hobby Stripling was born on August 30, 1932, in Turner County, Georgia to the union of Maggie Thelma Hobby Stripling and Jodie Lee Stripling. Hobby graduated from Cordele High School in 1948 at the age of 16 and married his sweetheart, Joanne Duncan. They were married for 58 years until her passing in 2006 and were the parents of 2 sons, Charles Hobby Stripling, Jr. and Robby Stripling. Hobby was blessed to find love for a second time and in 2011 he married Ann Gambrell. They shared 12 wonderful years together and created a blended family to include Tonya Gambrell Thompson, Torri Gambrell Zeigler and Greg Gambrell. Together the Stripling and Gambrell children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and other kin merged into a loving family unit which Hobby cherished with great pride. During his life, Hobby held various jobs until he returned to Vienna, Georgia in 1962 to open the Vienna Red & White Super Market with James and Elsi Pass. He later opened Zippy Food Store, the first convenience store in Vienna, Georgia, which he operated for many years. This gave him the opportunity to interact with his neighbors, empathize with their challenges and spark a career of public service to ensure positive change for his neighbors, friends and family. It has been said that ``Service is the rent we pay for the space we occupy on this earth.'' Hobby paid his rent and paid it well. He served as Mayor of Vienna, Georgia for 24 years; President of the Georgia Municipal Association; and campaign manager for former Atlanta Georgia Mayor, Congressman and UN Ambassador, Andrew Young in his run for Georgia Governor. He was pivotal in my successful 1992 congressional campaign and in 1993, when the time came for me to hire a District Director, Hobby was a perfect fit. His leadership, compassion, patience, fidelity, advice, and friendship were the manifestations of love in action. He served the people of the 2nd Congressional District and me well for 10 years, then went on to serve as the District Director for Congressman Jim Marshall for 7 years and in 2008 was appointed by President Barack Obama to be Georgia State Director of the Farm Service Agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Hobby Stripling accomplished much in his life, but none of it would have been possible without the grace of God, the love and support of his beloved wives, Joanne and Ann, his blended extended family and the many souls that inspired and motivated him to serve. He touched countless lives in a positive way and because he did, the world is a better place. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join my wife, Vivian, and me, along with the 765,000 people of the 2nd Congressional District in honoring the life and service of the Honorable Charles Hobby Stripling, Sr. and in extending our deepest condolences to his family, friends and all those who mourn his loss. May we all be consoled and comforted by an abiding faith and the Holy Spirit in the days, weeks, and months ahead.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor a dedicated husband, loving father, extraordinary funeral practitioner, humble community servant and friend of longstanding, Mr. William Maxwell ``Billy'' Carroll. Sadly, Billy transitioned this life from labor to reward on June 18, 2023. A home going service celebrating his remarkable life was held on Sunday, June 25, 2023, at the Saint Mary Missionary Baptist Church in Baconton, Georgia. William Maxwell Carroll was born in Camilla, Georgia on October 6, 1936, to the union of the late Horace Carroll of Atlanta, Georgia and Thelma Jester Carroll White of Albany, Georgia. He received his early fruits of knowledge in the public-school systems of Atlanta, Camilla and Moultrie, Georgia. Following high school, Billy matriculated at the Agricultural and Technical College of Greensboro, North Carolina where he majored in Business Administration. He then attended Atlanta College of Mortuary Science and upon completion returned to his hometown roots in Camilla to operate a family-owned business. A licensed funeral director and embalmer, Billy used his stewardship of the Robert Jester Mortuary to serve and comfort thousands of families during their times of bereavement. He and the entire staff did whatever it took to support the needs of those who entrusted Robert Jester Mortuary with the care of their dearly departed loved ones. He was a longtime member of the Georgia Funeral Services Practitioners Association, Inc. where he served as President from 1982 to 1984. He was chosen 4th District Mortician of the Year in 1972 and selected as Mortician of the year in 1988 by Alpha Gamma Chapter of Epsilon Nu Delta Mortuary Fraternity, Inc. It has been said that ``Service is the rent we pay for the space we occupy on this earth.'' Billy Carroll paid his rent, and he paid it well! He gave his time, talent and treasure to numerous social and civic organizations to include City of Camilla Zoning Board; Mitchell County Hospital Endowment Board; Camilla Chamber of Commerce; Kiwanis Club of Mitchell County; NAACP; and Boys and Girls Club; to name a few. He was appointed by Gov. George Busbee to serve on the Georgia State Commission on Indian Affairs and by Gov. Joe Frank Harris to serve on the Governor's Education Review Commission. He was politically astute, active, a trail blazer and was the first African American to run for City Commissioner in Camilla, Georgia. He received the Living History Award in 2009, the Great Man Award in 2017 and was honored by the Southern Poverty Law Center, the Georgia Department of Public Safety and was nominated by the African American Funeral Services Museum for the Hall of Fame. A faithful man of God, Billy was an active member of Saint Peter AME Church where he was both a Steward and Trustee. Billy accomplished much in his life, but none of it would have been possible without the grace of God, the love and support of his beloved wife, Naomi, and his two children, William Carroll, Jr., and Vinai Carroll English. On a personal note, Billy was my friend and longtime supporter. Over the years he gave me wise and sage counsel, for which l will be forever grateful. Likewise, during his life he did so much for so many for so long. He touched countless lives and because he did, the world is a better place. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join my wife, Vivian, and me, along with the 765,000 people of the 2nd Congressional District in honoring the life and service of Mr. William Maxwell ``Billy'' Carroll and in extending our deepest condolences to Mr. Carroll's family, friends and all who mourn his loss. May they all be consoled and comforted by an abiding faith and the Holy Spirit in the days, weeks and months ahead.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, one of the cardinal rules of negotiation is never to negotiate when you have a gun pointed at your head. The rationale is self-evident. One of the parties--namely, the party which is staring down the barrel of the gun--is more than likely going to either get the short end of the deal or, worse, end up dead. In the case of the debt limit negotiations currently underway between President Biden and Speaker McCarthy, the risk isn't just that one of the parties will be unhappy with an agreement. If the United States defaults on the federal debt for the first time in the nation's history, it will risk a devastating wound to financial markets at home and around the world, push our country into a recession, erase 7.8 million jobs, and wipe out as much as $10 trillion in household wealth. The crisis, of course, is a manufactured one. The national debt has increased under every presidential administration since Herbert Hoover. According to the U.S. Department of Treasury, Congress has acted 78 separate times to permanently raise, temporarily extend, or revise the definition of the debt limit--49 times under Republican presidents and 29 times under Democratic presidents. Republicans aren't interested in getting our fiscal house in order. They don't want to address entitlement programs, which are the big drivers of projected spending growth. They don't want to touch raising revenues or cuts to military spending. Instead, Republicans are aiming their weapon at nondefense discretionary spending. They want to slash funding for our nation's schools, our national parks, our farmers, and our police officers. Nondefense discretionary spending only accounts for 15 percent of the $6.3 trillion the government is expected to spend this year. Republicans even want to take money away from health care for our nation's veterans. Their Default on America Act would underfund programs that help our veterans exposed to bum pits by $20 billion. America must pay its bills as it has always done. At a time when America is facing many challenges at home and abroad--from inflation to competition with China to the ongoing war in Ukraine--we must ensure that our word is trusted. In the end, we must do what is right and raise the debt ceiling without any conditions and especially without a gun pointed at our heads.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I want to commend the United Nations for declaring 2023 as the International Year of Millets. As the Ranking Member of the House Agriculture Appropriations Committee, I know first-hand the importance of finding a nutritional staple that has the potential of addressing both climate change and food insecurity in the near future. This ancient crop is a staple of food in India, where it is often used in porridges and as rice substitutes, or as flour to make flatbreads and other baked goods. Millets are known for being rich in dietary fiber as well as in potassium and protein. In fact, regular consumption of millets can reduce the risk of diabetes and obesity, improve cholesterol levels, and lower the risk of heart disease. Millets also can be grown on lands poor in soil quality and lacking in irrigation, which make them invaluable in addressing food insecurity across the globe. They use 70 percent less water than rice; grow in half the time of wheat; and need 40 percent less energy in processing. They are so hardy that they can even withstand temperatures up to 50 degrees Celsius. India has been a leader in the production, consumption, and promotion of millets. In fact, India is the largest producer of millets and one of the world's biggest exporters of this traditional staple of Indian cooking. Not that long ago, the consumption of millets in India waned as wheat and rice took precedence. Now it is making a comeback as people in India and across the world recognize its nutritional and environmental value. Again, I want to thank the United Nations and the Government of India for taking up this important issue.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a loving husband, dedicated father, doting grandfather, seasoned executive, benevolent public servant and dear family friend of long standing to my wife, Vivian, and me--Charles Edward Clark, Sr. Sadly, Charles transitioned from this life on March 27, 2023. On April 17, 2023, a memorial service celebrating his remarkable life was held at 11:00 a.m. in Columbus, Georgia at St. Luke United Methodist Church. Charles Clark was born in Vienna, Georgia on August 26, 1939, to the union of Elbert and Elzada Clark. The oldest son of 11 children, his early education was in the Dooly County, Georgia School System. He went on to matriculate at Clark College (now Clark Atlanta University) in Atlanta where he became a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and earned a B.A. Degree in Business Administration in 1962. He proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam Era, rising to the rank of Corporal before receiving his Honorable Discharge. Charles returned to Atlanta and went to work at the Urban League, beginning what would become a long and extraordinary career in government and community service. At the Urban League, he met the love of his life, Lillian ``Bunky'' McClung, daughter of former Columbus Mayor Pro Tem, A.J. and Mrs. Helen McClung. They were married in 1966 and to this blessed union were born two children: Charles ``Chuck'' Clark, Jr. and Candace Clark (Trinchieri). Charles believed in education and demanded excellence from himself at every stage of his professional career. Hence, while working full time at the Urban League, he earned his law degree from the Woodrow Wilson College of Law in Atlanta in 1971. He began federal executive employment at the Office of Economic Opportunity regional office in Atlanta, moved to the Social Security Administration, then went on to earn a Master's Degree in Public Administration in 1973 from Stanford University in Palo Alto, California. He then returned to Atlanta to be Regional Director for Volunteers In Service To America (VISTA) and simultaneously earned a Master's in Organizational Psychology and Administration in 1976 from West Georgia College in Carrolton, Georgia. Also in 1976, when his wife, Bunky, went to Washington, D.C. as part of the Jimmy Carter Presidential Transition Team, Charles became Special Assistant to Veterans Affairs Administrator and future U.S. Senator Max Cleland. He served in several positions in the VA, to include: Assistant Administrator, Office of Personnel and Labor Relations; Assistant for the Office of Human Goals; and Special Assistant to the Deputy Chief Medical Director. Charles later served as Associate Medical Director at VA Medical Centers in Reno, Nevada, San Francisco and Palo Alto, California. Because of his exceptional service, Charles received The Meritorious Executive Presidential Rank Award from the Department in 1995. Upon retirement from the VA, Charles and Bunky moved back to Bunky's hometown of Columbus, Georgia where he served as Senior Vice President of Columbus Regional Healthcare System, Vice President of Columbus Regional Medical Foundation and Executive Director of Junior Achievement. In addition, Charles was active in community service, volunteering his time in several charitable organizations and was an active member of Saint Luke United Methodist Church. In 2015, Charles was diagnosed with Alzheimer's. He used this challenge as an opportunity, becoming a staunch supporter of the Alzheimer's Association of Columbus and he led ``The Annual Walk to End Alzheimer's'' before moving to Sherman Oaks, California to live with his daughter, Candace, and her family. It has been said that: ``Service is the rent we pay for the space we 'occupy on this earth''. Charles Clark paid his rent and paid it well. He gave his time, talents and treasure to so many social and civic organizations. George Washington Carver once said: ``How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving and tolerant of the weak and the strong. Because some day you will have been all of these''. Charles Clark lived those words. On a personal note, Charles was my friend. He was my supporter. He even served as my extraordinary campaign manager in 2008. He accomplished so much in his life. But, none of this would have been possible without the grace of God and the love and support of his wife of 57 years, Bunky; his children, Chuck and Candace; and a host of friends and family who will miss him dearly. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join my wife, Vivian, and me, along with the more than 765,000 people of the 2nd Congressional District of Georgia in honoring the life and legacy of Mr. Charles Edward Clark, Sr. and in extending our deepest sympathies to his family, friends, and all who mourn his loss. We pray that they will be consoled and comforted by an abiding faith and the Holy Spirit in the days, weeks, and months ahead.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a dedicated man of God, a selfless humanitarian, and a humble servant, Minister Alfie A. Jelks. Minister Jelks was honored at his annual event, The Soul of My Footprint Brunch Gala on April 15, 2023, in Columbus, Georgia. The journey of Minister Alfie Jelks began with his birth on April 14, 1968, in Tuskegee, Alabama. Minister Jelks is a proud product of the Muscogee County School System, graduating from Kendrick High School in 1986. An avid learner, Minister Jelks also earned an Associate of Science Degree in 1995 from the Chattahoochee Community College. He also received a B.S. Degree in Theology from Troy University in 2005 and a Master of Divinity Degree in 2015 from Great Plains Baptist Divinity School. Building on his love of God and his country, Minister Jelks received his commission as a United States Army Reserve Chaplain in 2009. In 2000, Minister Jelks began his humanitarian journey to Jinga, Uganda with and only one credit card and no personal ties to anyone there. From this initiative, The Soul of My Footprint was born. The Primary purpose of this initiative is the dissemination of provisional supplies of medicine, clothing, and basic care items for the people of Jinga, Uganda. Another mission of this wonderful organization is to provide scholarships to high school seniors who are philanthropic and plan to major in the fields of science, social services, education, theology, or non-profit work. Minister Jelks was moved by his faith to begin this ministry. His commitment to humankind has been based on Matthew 25 when Jesus said that He wanted to feed the hungry, clothe the naked and visit those that were in prison as the center of His ministry. Minister Jelks made subsequent trips to Uganda in 2001, 2007, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2019, 2021, and 2022. Through his continuous effort and labor of love, the Soul of My Footprint Hospital in conjunction with Cook Dental Care will open in the fall of 2023. Because of his gift of collaboration with many different organizations in Columbus, Georgia, over one thousand pairs of shoes have been donated to the people of Jinga. As a man who is proud of his heritage, Minister Jelks opened Alfie's African Treasures, selling rare and unique African Artifacts and Greek Fraternal Paraphernalia. Always seeking ways to educate youth about their heritage, Minister Jelks established ``Alfie's African Treasures Annual Cultural Show.'' Minister Jelks has created many partnerships in the furtherance of his mission of cultural enhancement to include The Muscogee County School System, The Boys and Girls Clubs, Big Brother-Big Sisters of Columbus, The Wellness Center, Columbus State University African Student Organization, The Black History Museum, and The Anne Elizabeth Shepherd Home. It has been said that, ``The true person of success is not the person that climbs the ladder of this life with two hands but climbs the ladder of this life with one hand and reaches back with the other.'' Minister Alfie Jelks has dedicated his life to the uplift of others by climbing the ladder of this life with ``one hand and reaching back with the other.'' Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join my wife, Vivian and me, along with the 765,000 people of the 2nd Congressional District, in honoring Minister Alfie Jelks for his lifetime of service to God, his community and humankind. May God continue to rain down his richest blessings on this remarkable ministry. To God Be the Glory.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a dedicated father, loving son, inspiring brother, and purposeful public Servant, dutiful soldier, and friend of longstanding, Mayor Ralph T. Brown, Jr. Sadly, Mayor Brown passed from labor to reward on March 24, 2023. A funeral service to celebrate his remarkable life was held on Sunday, April 2, 2023, at the Josh Gibson Center in Buena Vista, Georgia. The journey of Mayor Ralph Brown began on January 10, 1960, when he was born to the union of Marie Fudge Brown and the late Ralph T. Brown, Sr. in Buena Vista, Marion County, Georgia. He was educated in the Marion County School System, graduating in 1977 from Tri-County High School. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1980 and served honorably as an Administrative Specialist and Recruiter. During his service, he received numerous awards and commendations including Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officers Professional Development Ribbon, Advance Level, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbons, M16 Expert Qualification Badge Driver and Mechanic Badge, and Driver-W, U.S. Army, Gold Recruiter Badge. His duty stations included Ft. Knox, Kentucky, USARB Columbus, RC, and Overseas. He retired as Sergeant First Class with 21 years of service. After retiring from the Army, Mayor Brown moved back to his beloved Buena Vista, eager to make a difference. He quickly became involved in the community, ultimately being elected Mayor. Mayor Brown served the citizens of Buena Vista with great distinction from 2000 to 2020, following in the footsteps of his mother who served on the City Council and as Mayor Pro Tem. Mayor Brown was a consensus builder during his time as Mayor. He was always looking for common ground with his ultimate goal being the betterment of Buena Vista. He retired as Mayor in 2020 and passed the baton to his brother, Mayor Kevin Brown, continuing the family tradition of public service. Mayor Brown's propensity for service did not stop at the Mayor's Office. He was a community specialist with the West Central Georgia Community Action Council and a program coordinator with The Student Transition and Recovery Program (STAR) Program at the Macon County Board of Education. Mayor Brown was also a member of the American Legion Post 309 and the Mayor of Georgia Committee. The great agricultural chemist George Washington Carver once said that ``How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving and tolerant of the weak and the strong. Because someday in your life you will have been all of these.'' Mayor Ralph Brown was concerned about the ``least of these'' during his life and made that passion his life's work. But more than that, he was driven by his faith. God ordered the steps of his life. He was a dedicated member of the Poplar Spring Baptist Church and a member of a weekly bible study group--(Men Talk). On a personal note, Mayor Brown was my friend of long standing. He never told me what I wanted to hear, but he always told me what he felt I needed to hear. I will miss his wise advice and sage counsel. Mayor Brown accomplished much in his life, but none of it would have been possible without the Grace of God and the support of his family including his beloved mother, Marie Fudge Brown; his children, Leisha Hunter; Lakisha Hunter Echols; and April Brown-Swan; and a host of family and friends who will miss him deeply. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join my wife, Vivian, and me, along with the more than 765,000 constituents of Georgia's Second Congressional District in paying tribute to Mayor Ralph T. Brown, Jr. and in extending our deepest sympathies to his family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time of bereavement. Moreover, we pray that we will all be consoled and comforted by an abiding faith, and the Holy Spirit in the days, weeks, and months ahead. To God be the Glory for the life and legacy of Mayor Ralph T. Brown, Jr.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart and solemn remembrance that I rise today to honor the life and legacy of a great husband, loving father, doting grandfather, inspiring author, innovative entrepreneur, dedicated servant and friend of longstanding, Thomas ``Tommy'' Dortch, Jr. Sadly, Tommy transitioned from this life on February 15, 2023. His funeral service was held on Saturday, February 25, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Lithonia, Georgia. He leaves behind a legacy of service that will not soon be forgotten. Tommy Dortch was born on April 12, 1950, in Toccoa, Georgia to the union of Thomas W. Dortch, Sr. and Lizzie Mae Dortch. He graduated in 1968 in the first racially integrated class of Whitman High School in Taccoa and received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Fort Valley State College (now University) thereafter. While at Fort Valley, he distinguished himself by being elected Student Government Association President. Tommy would then go on to receive several post- graduate degrees and fellowships, including a Master of Arts degree in Criminal Justice from Clark Atlanta University; a Ford Fellowship in the Urban Administration Program at Georgia State University; and Honorary Doctorates from Fayetteville State University, Jarvis Christian College, Fort Valley State University, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, and Livingstone College. After graduating from Fort Valley, Tommy nobly began his professional career by running voter registration drives to increase voter participation among groups who were historically disenfranchised. In 1974, he began working as the Associate Director of the Georgia Democratic Party, and four years later began working for the office of Senator Sam Nunn, ultimately rising through the ranks to become the first African American State Director to serve in that capacity for a United States Senator. Always an activist, in 1986, Tommy joined the 100 Black Men of America, Inc., widely known as an organization that is focused on leadership, education, health and wellness, and youth mentoring. Tommy served as Chairman of the 100 Black Men of Atlanta and served twice as the Chairman of the 100 Black Men of America's Board of Directors. His leadership was instrumental in transforming the organization as a powerful force for Black youth empowerment. Tommy was always looking for ways to help young people reach their full potential and in 1986, he founded the Black Alumni Hall of Fame Foundation, Inc.--an organization that has awarded over $1.1 million in scholarships to the students of our nation's Historically Black Colleges and Universities. After sixteen years of government service, Tommy left his position as State Director to pursue his own business interests, including minority and small business development and non-profit organizations. He served as the CEO of the consulting firm TWD, Inc. and the Atlanta Transportation Systems, Inc.; Chairman and CEO of Cornerstone Parking; and Managing Partner of FAD Consulting, LLC. He co-founded the Georgia Association of Minority Entrepreneurs (GAME) to fill a void in the state as an-advocacy organization for minority business development. Tommy also co-founded the Greater Atlanta Economic Alliance as a capacity building development organization for the construction and transportation industries. Tommy was a much sought-after speaker on both a national and international stage to governmental entities, corporations, and educational institutions. He also had many guest appearances on nationally acclaimed television programs to include The Oprah Winfrey Show, CNN, the National Press Club and C-SPAN to name a few. Because of his advocacy and commitment to community service, Tommy was recognized by several national and international publications to include the 2001, 2002, 2003, and 2004 May editions of Ebony Magazine and one of its 100 Influential African Americans. The Atlanta Business Chronicle included him as one of its 100 most influential Atlantans from 2001 through 2014. Also, Tommy received numerous awards for his service and advocacy for humankind to include 2008 Community Service Professional of the Year; 2008 FraserNet Community Service Award; 2008 Global Leadership Empowerment Award; Atlanta Business Chronicle 50 Most Admired CEOs, and by the Atlanta Magazine as one of its 500 Most Influential Leaders. Tommy also gave his time, talent, and treasure to many community organizations to include Vice Chairman of the Board of Grady Memorial Corporation; Chairman of the Board, Friendship Force International; Chairman of the Board, Fulton/Dekalb County Hospital Authority; Chairman of the Board of the Atlanta Business League; Chairman of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation; Board of Trustees, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University; Board of Trustees, Talladega College; and Board of Trustees, Clark Atlanta University. On a personal note, Tommy was a friend for many years and, along with his wife, Carole, supported my public service in countless ways. I was blessed with his sage advice and counsel over the years, and the world is a better place because of the life that he led, Jackie Robinson once said that ``a life isn't significant except for its impact on other lives.'' There is no doubt that the life of Thomas ``Tommy'' Dortch, Jr. profoundly impacted countless others. He did so much for so many for so long. Tommy accomplished much in his life, but none of it would have been possible without the grace of God and the love and support of his wife, Carole, his five children and fourteen grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to have known a man with as much grace, class, and dignity as Thomas ``Tommy'' Dortch, Jr. I ask my colleagues to join my wife, Vivian, and me, along with the nearly 765,000 people of the Second Congressional District in extending our deepest condolences to his family. May they be comforted by their faith, the grace of God, and the Holy Spirit in the days, weeks, and months ahead.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding mentor, dedicated servant leader, Vietnam War Veteran, faithful servant of God, and dear friend of longstanding, Reverend Dr. Emmett Scott Aniton, Jr. for over four decades of service to his congregation at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. A celebration of his 44th Anniversary at the Church will be held on April 2, 2023 in Columbus, Georgia. Rev. Emmett Scott Aniton, Jr. was born on March 8, 1940, in Oneonta, Alabama to the union of Mr. Emmett Scott Aniton, Sr. and Mrs. Estella Aniton Woods. He graduated from Southside High School in Etowah County, Alabama and earned his Bachelor of Theology from Selma University in 1964. Shortly thereafter, Rev. Aniton answered his nation's call to service and entered the United States Army, completing a tour of duty in Qui Nho'n Vietnam. He then returned home to Alabama where he matriculated at Alabama A&M University, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology. After his service in Vietnam and earning his second college degree, Rev. Aniton first answered God's call to preach the Gospel by becoming the Pastor of First Baptist Church in Jacksonville, Alabama. There, he ministered to the needs of his congregation, christening infants, baptizing believers, performing marriages, and consoling bereaved families, all while developing and honing his skills as a church administrator and inspiring preacher. In November of 1978, Rev. Aniton accepted the call to become the pastor of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, and he followed the Holy Spirit to Columbus, Georgia. His pastoral duties began in April of 1979 and he has faithfully and dutifully served for over four decades. Under Rev. Aniton's dynamic and spirit-filled leadership, Friendship Missionary Baptist Church has experienced tremendous growth-- spiritually, numerically, and in its building facilities. Rev. Aniton's outstanding servant leadership did not stop at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church; his impact has been felt throughout the greater Columbus community and beyond. He has served on the boards of the Pastoral Institute, the Liberty Theatre, the Metro Columbus Urban League, and the Fourth Street Towers. He has served as the President of the Mount Calvary Congress of Christian Education and the Muscogee County Clergy Association; instructor for the General Missionary Baptist Convention, Georgia Congress of Christian Education, and the American Baptist Theological Seminary. Sir Winston Churchill once said, ``You make a living by what you get, but you make a life by what you give.'' Rev. Emmett Scott Aniton has given of himself over forty years of dedicated service to the glory of God and to his faithful congregation. Rev. Emmett Scott Aniton has received numerous awards, such as the NAACP Religious Affairs Award, the Rainbow PUSH Coalition Lifetime Achievement Award, the Peace, Unity, Honesty, and Leadership Award; and in May of 2021, received an Honorary Doctor of Divinity Degree from St. Thomas Christian College in Jacksonville, Florida. Reverend Dr. Aniton has achieved so much in his life, but none of it would have been possible without the grace of God and love and support of his late wife, Mrs. Dorothy Rigby Aniton; his children, Minister Rhonda Aniton Bell, Emmett Scott Aniton III, and Keisha Aniton Simmons; his grandchildren and other family members. On a personal note, I have been blessed by Rev. Aniton's sage counsel and advice over the four decades that I have known him, and I am proud to call him my friend. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join my wife, Vivian, and me; along with the more than 765,000 people of Georgia's Second Congressional District, in honoring and commending the Reverend Dr. Emmett Scott Aniton, Jr. for 44 years of dedicated service to Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. Moreover, we pray for God's continued blessings upon him and his family in the weeks, months and years ahead.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a loving husband, dedicated father, seasoned law enforcement executive, dear friend of longstanding to my wife Vivian and me, Lieutenant Colonel John Darr. An event celebrating his remarkable career in law enforcement was held on Thursday, February 23 at the Saint Luke Ministry Center in Columbus, Georgia. The journey of Lieutenant Colonel Darr began in Fort Benning, Georgia. He attended Hardaway High School and Columbus State University. Lieutenant Colonel Darr began his career with Muscogee County Sheriffs Office in 1988 serving in a variety of bureaus to include The Fugitive Apprehension Bureau, The Jail Bureau, Patrol Bureau, Court Bureau, and Investigative Bureau. Because of his vast experience and his penchant for service, Lieutenant Colonel Darr ran for and was elected Sheriff of Muscogee County in 2008. He was subsequently reelected in 2012. During his tenure as Sheriff, Lieutenant Colonel Darr was a visionary leader who organized various community outreach programs. One of the first programs that he initiated was a program called project lifesaver. This program was the first of its kind in Muscogee County. The program provided tracking bands to families of program individuals with cognitive disabilities to Autism and Alzheimer's. A compassionate community servant, Lt. Col. Darr helped to secure funding for bands for families that could not afford them as well as provided training for his deputies to be able to locate these individuals if they were in distress. He also found resources to promote these two programs by having an Autism Patrol Car and the All Cancer Support Vehicle. Lt. Col Darr was also committed to reducing the recidivism rate at the Muscogee County Jail. Always the visionary, he began several initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for inmates while housed at the jail. These initiatives include the Veterans Dorm, the Fatherhood Dorm, and the GED Dorm. The Veterans Dorm was the first such initiative in the country and provided vast resources for those Veterans who were incarcerated. It helped them to deal with the ever-present issues of PTSD and substance abuse. In short, this initiative helped to prepare these Veterans for life after incarceration. The Fatherhood Dorm initiative focused on inmates being able to be present fathers after their release from incarceration. This initiative focused to improving the literacy of fathers so that after their release they would have the literacy skills to better themselves and to be able to read to their children. Finally, the GED Dorm helped incarcerated individuals to obtain their GED's. Because of these initiatives and his focus of Mental Health, Lt. Col Darr was responsible for the removal of a Federal Consent Decree that the jail had operated under since 1999. Lt. Col Darr's remarkable service as Sheriff ended in 2016. He always looked for ways to help himself and his community. He came back at the Lt. Col for jail operations under current Muscogee County Sheriff Greg Countryman. John Darr has held many titles in his life, but the most befitting is that of Servant. It has been said that ``Service is the rent that we pay for the space that we occupy here on this earth.'' John Darr has paid his rent and he has paid it well. Lt. Col Darr has accomplished much in this life, but none of it would have been possible with the love and support of his wife Linda and their four children: Rachael, Michelle, Courtney and Troy. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join my wife Vivian and me along with the more than 765,000 people of Georgia's Second Congressional District in extending our sincerest appreciation and best wishes to Lt. Col John Darr on the occasion of his retirement from the Muscogee County Sheriff's Office and remarkable career in Law Enforcement. To God be the Glory.