Sanford Bishop

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Chair, we have an opportunity and an obligation to help migrant children who have come across the border to escape the problems with their homeland. The challenges of poverty and violence continue to grow, and it is a moral obligation and one that I support. To not allow the use of military installations for temporary housing for migrants only exacerbates the problem. This is temporary. Why would we prohibit the use of bases only until the adjudication of a migrant's case, for example? Is my colleague suggesting that we immediately send migrant children back to the countries they fled without due process? Should we send them back to violence? That is not what the United States stands for. It is not what the United States should stand for. It is not consistent with our country's Christian values. I urge a ``no'' vote on this amendment, and I agree with the chairman.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman for yielding. I join my chairman in opposing this amendment. Why has my colleague again started the war on women's rights? Why is the gentleman getting involved in the contraception choices of women veterans? Under VA Directive 1331, it is the policy of the VA to provide elective sterilization, for example, salpingectomy, tubal occlusion procedures, vasectomy, and surgery to reverse elective sterilization to eligible veterans as part of contraceptive and infertility services. I don't see my colleague from Pennsylvania calling for a ban of funding vasectomies or even a tubal ligation, getting tubes tied. Both of these are procedures currently allowed. If a woman has decided that she is seeking permanent birth control, why is Congress going to mandate that she undergo a surgical procedure? It is important to recognize that family planning is the most effective way to prevent abortion and unwanted pregnancies. Study after study show that when women have access to contraceptives, the incidence of abortion decreases. Family planning programs are an extremely effective way to support women in improving their own health and that of their families. Why would anyone insist on government interference in providing health care to women? This amendment also demonstrates the deeply troubling and partisan approach on issues affecting women and families. Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues to vote ``no'' on this amendment.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Chairman, I reserve a point of order on the gentleman's amendment.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Chair, I want to associate myself with the gentleman from Pennsylvania in opposition to the amendment.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Do we have the text of the amendment?

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Chair, parliamentary inquiry.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Will the gentleman yield?

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Chairman, I make a point of order against the amendment because it proposes to change existing law and constitutes legislation in an appropriation bill and, therefore, violates clause 2 of rule XXI. The rule states in pertinent part: ``An amendment to a general appropriation bill shall not be in order if changing existing law.'' The amendment requires a new determination. I ask for a ruling from the Chair.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Chair, I yield 5 minutes to the gentlewoman from New York (Mrs. Lowey), the distinguished ranking member of the Committee on Appropriations.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Chairman, I agree with the gentleman from Massachusetts that we need to take a serious look at the Choice Program. VA's most recent data show, compared to the last year, there are now 70,000 more appointments that kept a veteran waiting at least a month to get care. Furthermore, a March General Accounting Office report showed that the Choice Program had little impact on getting veterans to see a primary care physician in 30 days. Thousands of veterans referred to the program are returning to the VA for care, sometimes because the program could not find a doctor for them and because the private doctor they were told to see was too far away according to VA data. In fact, VA's own inspector general found that in Colorado, veterans were waiting longer than 30 days for care because staff at the local VA hospital was not adding them to the list of patients eligible for the Choice Program, let alone slow reimbursements. Two years ago, Congress was hearing about the VA concealing wait times at VA hospitals and clinics and about the veterans who were suffering as a result. We were forced to act quickly in this crisis. I believe that Congress will have to revamp the Choice Program to make sure that it is doing what Congress intended for it to do. We are going to need an honest assessment from the VA. Mr. Chairman, I urge all Members to support this amendment. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Chairman, I must insist on my point of order.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Mrs. LaVerne Guice Chatmon Jackson of Columbus, Georgia on her 97th birthday on May 17, 2016. Mrs. Jackson has been an outstanding member of the community through her work as a nurse for 37 years and her service to numerous civic and charitable organizations. LaVerne Guice was born in Birmingham, Alabama on May 17, 1919. She came from a large family of six children. Her father, Thomas Jefferson Guice, was a blacksmith for the Frisco railroad for many years and her mother, Minnie Waters Guice, was a teacher for over forty years. In 1936, Mrs. Jackson graduated from Industrial High School (now A.H. Parker High School) in Birmingham, Alabama. She earned a degree from the Norwood School of Nursing, also located in Birmingham. Mrs. Jackson continued her education at the University of Chicago, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Miles College, and Tuskegee Institute (now University). Mrs. Jackson's Christian faith has been important to her since a young age when she chose to become baptized at Sardis Baptist Church in Birmingham. When she married the late Warren Pete Chatmon, II, she became a member of Green Liberty Baptist Church, where she served on the Usher Board and in the Young Matrons, and sang in the choir. Mrs. Jackson was able to touch many lives during her 37 years as a Public Health Nurse for the Jefferson County Department of Health in Birmingham. During those years, she worked in a variety of capacities, helping to heal people of all ages and from all walks of life. When she retired in 1984, she said, ``One could not have had a more rewarding career; to have the responsibility of promoting health and wellbeing is in itself rewarding for it has not only affected the present population but it will have an impact on future generations as well. You can be assured that I will continue to work in our community promoting health and wellbeing, for the nurse in me will never retire.'' In 1986, Mrs. Jackson, then a widow, decided to move to Columbus, Georgia to reunite with her childhood sweetheart, the late CW4 Lawton W. Jackson. Mrs. Jackson and her husband became active members of the First African Baptist Church in Columbus. Mrs. Jackson quickly fell in love with her new city and volunteered much of her time to better the Columbus community. She served in the Metro Columbus Urban League, United Negro College Fund, American Heart Association, American Diabetes Association, March of Dimes, Lindsay Creek Association, Girl Scouts of America, Columbus Health Fair, and the Columbus Community Center. Mrs. Jackson also served the Fort Benning community as President, Vice President, and Chaplain of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Officer's Wives Club and the Chattahoochee Valley Chapter of the Retired Officers Association. Her giving spirit, concern for others, and contributions to the community led to Mrs. Jackson's induction into the Gracious Ladies of Georgia in 1995. Mrs. Jackson is also a charter member of the Xi Chapter of Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Inc. An active member for more than fifty years, Mrs. Jackson has served as president of both the Birmingham and Columbus chapters. On the national level, she served as the Dean of Pledges and South East Regional Director. Mrs. Jackson has lived a selfless and generous life, serving as a nurse and volunteer. She has been blessed with two children, Gwendolyn Chatmon Corrin and Warren Pete Chatmon, III; ten grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me and my wife, Vivian, in extending our best wishes to LaVerne G. Jackson on her 97th birthday. As we celebrate another year of this outstanding citizen's life, we would do well to follow the example of her legacy of striving to improve the quality of life of others.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise in effort to heal the post-conflict, human cost of war by caring for the children of our Vietnam veterans living with Spina Bifida resulting from Agent Orange exposure. Spina Bifida, which literally means ``split spine,'' is a condition in which a baby's spinal column fails to close properly during pregnancy. Typically, an adult with Spina Bifida may suffer from nerve damage, paralysis, and difficulty completing ordinary, day-to-day tasks, and generally, surgery must be performed within 24 hours of the child's birth to minimize the risk of further damage due to infection, and to preserve any remaining function in the spinal cord. In many cases, those suffering from Spina Bifida require costly surgeries and extensive medical care because of potential paralysis resulting from damage to the spinal cord. Thankfully, due to medical advances, most children born with Spina Bifida live well into their adulthood. The Department of Veterans Affairs presumes a link between Vietnam- era veterans exposed to herbicides such as Agent Orange, and the incidences of Spina Bifida in their biological children. The Agent Orange Benefits Act (Public Law 104-204), which became law in 1996, established a benefits package for the children of Vietnam veterans as a result of exposure of one or both biological parents to herbicide during active duty in the Vietnam war. These benefits include lifetime health care services for Spina Bifida and any disability associated with Spina Bifida, a monthly monetary allowance, and VA vocational training and rehabilitation service. The Act authorized the VA to provide such benefits effective October 1, 1997, but not earlier than the date of the VA's receipt of an individual's claim for benefits. Regrettably however, this legislation did not tackle the already incurred medical costs directly correlated to Spina Bifida. According to the VA, there are approximately 1,200 affected children of Vietnam-era veterans receiving compensation since enactment of the Agent Orange Benefits Act. While these children became eligible for benefits in 1997, these veterans and their families have been left with the cost of years of medical care necessary to treat a child's condition since birth that was directly attributable to the veteran's wartime service. The Agent Orange Reconciliation Act of 2016 would make the benefits for children of Vietnam-era veterans born with and currently suffering from Spina Bifida effective beginning at birth. As a result, this bill would provide a one-time retroactive monetary payment to the families enduring this condition to compensate for treatment of the symptoms of Spina Bifida from birth until enactment of the Agent Orange Benefits Act. Let us provide the benefits for which we are responsible with this important legislation. Our provision of benefits to the children of Vietnam veterans living suffering from Spina Bifida from their birth not only honors the service of these veterans but also recognizes the harmful and continued effects of Agent Orange Exposure in later generations.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a man of purpose, sincerity, and high character, Coach David Pollard. Sadly and tragically, Coach Pollard passed away on April 18, 2016, as a result of a senseless accident. His funeral services were held on Sunday, April 24, 2016 at 3 pm at Cascade Hills Church in Columbus, Georgia. Coach Pollard was born on March 28, 1980 in Columbus, Georgia to the union of Terry and Sandra Pollard Render. He was a 1998 graduate of Shaw High School and 2002 graduate of Albany State University with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology. He was pursuing a Master's Degree in Psychology from Columbus State University. He was a highly respected educator and coach with stops as a community coach at Jordan Vocational High School and he was serving as a teacher and the Head Baseball Coach at George Washington Carver High School at the time of his passing. 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 strong. Because someday in your life you will have been all of these.'' Coach David Pollard understood these lessons very well. He dedicated his life to helping others--especially our most precious resources--young people. He used the season of his life to help others to reach their full potential. He was dedicated to his craft as both a teacher and a coach. His engaging personality and steadfast faith in God as a member of Central Baptist Church made him a person that was admired and respected by all that came in contact with him. Coach Pollard was universally respected by his peers in the baseball coaching fraternity. He was loved by his players, students and colleagues. But, he knew that his life would be measured not by wins and losses on a sports field but by the difference he made in the lives of his students and players. We all can learn so much from the life of Coach David Pollard. We must live everyday as if it were our last. Treat all people with dignity and respect and make a difference in the lives of others. His greatest role in life was that of a dedicated husband and father. Just as he demonstrated a great love for people, he demonstrated an even greater love for his family. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join my wife, Vivian and me, along with more than 730,000 people of the Second Congressional District in extending condolences to his wife, Adrienne, his daughter Joy and his entire family. ``To God Be the Glory'' for the life of Coach David Pollard for his contributions to the betterment of humankind.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize Dr. Beverly W. Glover for her noteworthy work with the International Association of Ministers' Wives and Ministers Widows, Inc. Dr. Glover, the wife of Pastor and Moderator Walter L. Glover, Jr., currently serves as the President of IAMWMW, which will celebrate its 75th year of training and preparing ministers and pastor's wives for service in their roles beside their husbands. A celebration will take place in Richmond, Virginia on Wednesday, June 29, 2016. At this celebration, IAMWMW will recognize Dr. Glover as an outstanding leader, retired educator, mother, wife, and faithful follower of Christ. Dr. Beverly W. Glover is a native of Macon, Georgia. She received her education from Bibb County Public Schools, Savannah State College, Fort Valley State College (now University), Georgia College, and Georgia Southern University. She earned a Doctorate in Administration and Supervision from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. With a passion for improving the lives of children and young adults, Dr. Glover began her career as a teacher at Burdell Elementary School in Macon, Georgia. She taught at Danforth Primary School and Bernd Elementary School before moving to Miller Middle School, where she served as Assistant Principal, and then Southwest High School, where she served as Principal. Dr. Glover concluded her remarkable 37-year career with the Bibb County School System serving as the Director of the Joseph N. Neel Alternative School. Here, she worked diligently to ensure success for all students and staff and under her leadership, the school received the Excellence in Education Award. Not one to rest on her laurels, Dr. Glover is an active member of many religious and civic organizations where she continuously devotes her time to bettering the community. These organizations include the Epsilon Tau Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc.; Phi Delta Kappa; Church Women United; The Links Inc.; NAACP; OES Number 82; and General Missionary Baptist Convention of Georgia, Inc., among others. Since childhood, the church has always played a vital role in Dr. Glover's life. She is an active member of the Greater Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church where she organized the Deaconess Ministry. She is a member of the Sunday School, Missionary Society, Mission-in- Action, and advisor to the Women's Ministry. Dr. Glover also organized and managed the church's first Vacation Bible School which enrolled and served 225 children the first year. She also serves as Secretary and General Manager of Glover Memorial Mortuary in Macon, Georgia. Dr. Glover has been a member of the ministers' wives organizations for more than 30 years. She founded the Macon Interdenominational Ministers' Wives and Ministers' Widows local organization. On the state level, Dr. Glover served as Recording Secretary under the leadership of Dr. Ethel Purvis Stokes. She was then elected President of the Georgia Association of Ministers' Wives and Ministers' Widows. Since 2010, Dr. Glover has served as the eighth President of the International Association of Ministers' Wives and Ministers' Widows, Inc. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, ``Life's most persistent and urgent question is, `What are you doing for others?''' Dr. Glover undoubtedly lives by this philosophy. From her work as an educator to her involvement in missions, Dr. Glover has made a tremendous impact on the lives of others. She is a woman of integrity who exudes the genuine principles and values of Christian discipleship. A charismatic evangelical leader and pioneer, her spiritual zeal is both infectious and highly contagious. Mr. Speaker, today I ask my colleagues to join me, members of the IAMWMW, and the more than 730,000 residents of Georgia's Second Congressional District in extending our sincerest appreciation to Dr. Beverly W. Glover. A woman of many hats, she is an outstanding educator and mentor, strong leader, prominent community activist, and devoted caretaker, but above all, she is a faithful servant of God.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart and solemn remembrance that I pay tribute to an outstanding civic leader and public servant, Pearlie S. Reed. Mr. Reed passed away on Friday, April 8, 2016. A funeral service was held on Friday, April 15, 2016 11:00 a.m. at Old St. Paul Baptist Church in West Memphis, Arkansas. Mr. Reed was born in Heth, Arkansas and attended the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Husbandry in 1970. He later earned a master's degree in Public Administration-Finance from American University in Washington, DC, in 1980. Mr. Reed began his career with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Soil Conservation Service while he was still a college student in 1968. In the years that followed, Mr. Reed rose steadily in the Soil Conservation Service from a soil conservationist, to deputy state conservationist, to State Conservationist for Maryland from 1985-1989 and State Conservationist for California from 1989-1993. Mr. Reed then served as Associate Chief after the Soil Conservation Service was renamed the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). In this capacity, he spearheaded the most comprehensive reorganization of the agency in its 60-year history. He also initiated the American Indian outreach effort for NRCS to work directly with tribes and provided leadership in the development and implementation of the Conservation Title of the 1996 Farm Bill. In 1997, Mr. Reed served as Acting Assistant Secretary of Agriculture for Administration before he was promoted to Chief of NRCS in 1998, a position he held until 2002 when he was named Regional Conservationist for the Western United States. In 1996, then-Secretary of Agriculture Dan Glickman appointed Mr. Reed to lead the Secretary's Civil Rights Action Team to develop recommendations to advance civil rights within USDA. The Team made 92 recommendations and President Bill Clinton issued an order that all recommendations be implemented. As Mr. Reed stated, ``the work of the Civil Rights Action Team is recognized as having set direction for civil rights policy at USDA to ensure that every employee treats every customer and co-worker fairly and equitably, with dignity and respect.'' Although Mr. Reed retired from USDA in 2003, his strong and effective leadership was widely noted, and he was nominated by President Barack Obama to serve as Assistant Secretary of Agriculture in May 2009. Mr. Reed also served as a leader of several USDA-wide initiatives, such as the chair of the USDA/1990 Task Force, chair of the USDA Agricultural Air Quality Task Force, and chair of the USDA National Food and Agriculture Council. His service included international conservation experience and his contributions in South Africa, Australia, and the International Soil Conservation Organization demonstrate the breadth of his influence. For nearly four decades, Pearlie Reed was a familiar face at USDA and a driving force for progress within the Department. He acted as a voice for disadvantaged and minority farmers and worked tirelessly to advocate for the conservation of our nation's precious resources. Over the course of his career, Mr. Reed received numerous awards and commendations, including the Distinguished Presidential Rank Award for strength, integrity, industry, and a relentless commitment to public service; the George Washington Carver Public Service Hall of Fame Award; and the USDA Secretary's Honor Award for equal opportunity and civil rights; among others. On a personal note, I had the privilege of working closely with Pearlie during my time on the House Agriculture Committee and through my ongoing service on the Agriculture Subcommittee of the House Appropriations Committee. I have truly been blessed by his friendship, counsel and inspiration throughout the years. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in saluting Pearlie S. Reed for his outstanding public service and his influence on progress at the U.S. Department of Agriculture. We extend our deepest condolences to Mr. Reed's family and friends during this difficult time and we pray 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. In short, I believe that H.R. 482 will strengthen the current Ocmulgee National Monument and bolster the economy and cultural life of Georgia, and beyond. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. I thank the gentlewoman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 482, the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park Boundary Revision Act of 2016. First, I want to thank the coauthor of this legislation, my friend and colleague, Representative Austin Scott. He has been a tireless advocate on behalf of this legislation, and we would not be where we are today without his help, advice, and collaboration. I would also like to thank Chairman Rob Bishop and Ranking Member Grijalva of the full House Natural Resources Committee for their work in bringing this bill to the House floor this afternoon. Chairman Tom McClintock and Ranking Member Niki Tsongas of the Federal Lands Subcommittee have been extremely helpful, and I want to commend them and their staffs, especially Terry Camp and Brandon Bragato, for their efforts. Mr. Speaker, there are few, if any, historic sites in the United States that have evidence of continuous human habitation from so long ago, when the first nomadic people came to North America to hunt Ice Age mammals and began to settle the Macon Plateau. It is what makes the Ocmulgee National Monument so unique. On its 702 acres, one can find archeological evidence from these first nomads, the mound builders of the Mississippian Period, British traders of the late 17th century, and the Civil War. Our bipartisan legislation consists of three parts. First, it will expand the boundaries from approximately 702 acres to over 2,800 acres, providing protection to additional archeological resources, linking two noncontiguous areas, and improving the site's connection to the city of Macon-Bibb, Georgia. Most of the land will be donated from nonprofit associations and government agencies. Property would also be acquired only from willing donors or sellers, subject to the availability of funding. Second, the bill will change the name from Ocmulgee National Monument to Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park, which would increase name recognition and draw additional visitors from across the country. Finally, H.R. 482 would authorize a resources study to explore the possibility of expanding the park even further and include additional opportunities for hunting, camping, fishing, and other recreational activities. The legislation enjoys widespread local support, including Macon-Bibb Mayor Robert Reichert, the Macon-Bibb Chamber of Commerce, the Macon- Bibb Business Bureau, the Macon-Bibb Commission, the Macon-Bibb Economic Development Commission, the Ocmulgee National Park and Preserve Association, and the Inter-Tribal Council of the Five Civilized Tribes: Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Muscogee (Creek), and Seminole. Mr. Speaker, I include in the Record letters in support of this legislation. Office of the Mayor, Macon-Bibb County, June 12, 2015. Re HR-482 Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park Boundary Revision Act of 2015. Hon. Tom McClintock, Chairman, Subcommittee on Public Lands and Environmental, House Committee of Natural Resources, Washington, DC. Hon. Niki Tsongas, Ranking Member, Subcommittee on Public Lands and Environmental, House Committee of Natural Resources, Washington, DC. Dear Chairman McClintock and Ms. Tsongas: Please accept this letter as an enthusiastic endorsement of HR-482! Ocmulgee National Monument became a part of the National Park Service in the 1930's after an archeological excavation revealed evidence of continual human habitation since the last ice age, 12-14,000 years ago. In addition, Native Americans built an earthen floor council chamber which is now 1,000 years old and is one of the best surviving examples of their culture. On behalf of the 155,000 people living in Macon-Bibb County and the 122,799 people from 48 states and 41 countries covering six continents that visited the Ocmulgee National Monument last year, I am writing to urge you to support HR- 482 when it comes before your subcommittee on June 16. Its passage would: Expand the park boundary to more than 2,000 acres from its current 700 acres; and include additional artifacts and sites which deserve federal protection; (There is no federal funding for land acquisition; this bill merely authorizes inclusion of additional property that may be voluntarily contributed or acquired with private funds into the boundary of the Park.) Change the name from Ocmulgee National Monument to ``Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park'' to better describe the site; Authorize a resource study (again to be privately funded) to determine if the Park could be incorporated, along with other properties, into a Natural Preserve along the Ocmulgee River to provide hunting and fishing opportunities and promote environmental education, health and wellness, and public enjoyment. The expansion and reclassification of the National Monument went through a very highly-publicized community input process, and it was overwhelmingly supported by thousands of people from our community, our region, and our state. We know the people of Georgia are excited and anxious to take this step and have this treasure in their backyard, both for their own enjoyment and for the enjoyment of their families, friends and visitors. The expansion of the Ocmulgee National Monument would be a very positive development for our entire region, and it is one of several initiatives Macon-Bibb County is undertaking to provide additional green space and passive recreational opportunities within our community. This effort is so important to us. It is one of our top projects detailed in our new government's first Strategic Plan, HR-482 will be a significant part of, not only preserving and protecting our heritage, but also, developing miles of trail, greenspace, and a park along our Ocmulgee River. Your support of this legislation will dramatically improve Middle Georgia, and I hope it will receive your favorable consideration, Thank you. Yours truly, Robert A. B. Reichert, Mayor.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor and pleasure to extend my personal congratulations and best wishes to an exceptional business leader and outstanding citizen, Mr. David Pringle, on the occasion of his retirement as Aflac's Senior Vice President of Federal Relations. David earned a bachelor's degree in insurance and risk management from Mississippi State University and then built an impressive career in this industry. As a representative of Aflac and the insurance industry, David's ability to work with everyone, regardless of political leanings, made him a familiar face on Capitol Hill and a source of counsel for Members of Congress and their staffs. David has worked for Aflac for a remarkable 36 years. For nine of those years, he worked with Aflac's sales forces in the states of Mississippi, North Carolina and West Virginia, where he was a state sales coordinator. As Senior Vice President of Federal Relations, David is primarily responsible for coordinating Aflac's government relations and lobbying efforts in Washington, D.C. As one of Georgia's most renowned and respected companies, Aflac, which is based in my district, exemplifies the meaning of corporate citizenship. Aflac has consistently found its name on prestigious lists such as Fortune's 100 Best Companies to Work For and Ethisphere's list of World's Most Ethical Companies. I am proud to acknowledge the accomplishments of Aflac and its people on behalf of the citizens of my district. Dr. Benjamin E. Mays often said: ``You make your living by what you get; you make your life by what you give.'' David never hesitated to offer his guidance, knowledge, or advice on the nuanced aspects of the complex insurance industry. A man of great integrity, his efforts, his dedication, and his expertise in his field are unparalleled, but his heart for helping others is what makes these qualities truly worthy. David has accomplished much in his life, but none of it would be possible without the love and support of his wife, Linell, their children, and their grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in extending our sincerest appreciation and best wishes to David Pringle upon the occasion of his retirement from an outstanding career spanning 36 years at Aflac.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding, and I certainly appreciate the opportunity to speak on this bill. I rise today in support of H.R. 4557, the Blocking Regulatory Interference from Closing Kilns Act, or the BRICK Act. This legislation is important to preserving the viability of brick manufacturing facilities all across the country. Simply put, the BRICK Act pauses the EPA's 2015 National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants until court challenges of the rule are resolved. I am very concerned that brick manufacturers in my district, as well as those in the districts of my colleagues, may be required to spend hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of dollars to satisfy an EPA requirement similar to the EPA's 2003 rule, a rule, it should be noted, that was vacated by the Federal courts. For example, Cherokee Brick & Tile from Macon, Georgia, spent over $1.5 million to install controls in order to comply with the EPA's invalidated 2003 rule. Cherokee is a small, family-owned business, and as my colleagues with small businesses in their districts can attest, $1.5 million is a very substantial sum that can cut heavily into a bottom line. This rule impacts more than just Cherokee Brick & Tile in my State, but also General Shale and Pine Hall Brick, among others. A basic material for home building and construction, bricks are more than just a figurative cornerstone in the United States construction industry. Passing this legislation would guarantee the EPA would wait until its 2015 emission standards are reviewed by the courts before implementing the rule and before manufacturers across the country are needlessly required to spend millions of dollars. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to support H.R. 4557, the BRICK Act.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a great husband, father, philanthropist, entrepreneur, and friend of long standing to my wife, Vivian, and me--Mr. George W. Jeter. Sadly, George passed away on February 26, 2016. His funeral service will be held today, February 29, 2016 at St. Paul United Methodist Church in Columbus, Georgia. George William Jeter was born March 29, 1935, in Montgomery, Alabama. He graduated from Coffee County High School in Enterprise, Alabama in 1953 and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in accounting from the University of Alabama in 1957. After graduation, he went on to serve his country with distinction as an army officer from 1957-59, serving as a Weapons Instructor. George was also an Internal Revenue Agent and Field Audit Supervisor from 1959-1969. He served as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at AFLAC, Inc. and affiliates from 1969-86. He played a tremendous role in helping to grow the company in its early days and helped to launch the business in Japan, where AFLAC now does almost 75 percent of its business. Following his retirement from AFLAC, George continued to serve as a consultant to the company until his passing. George loved collecting guns, samurai swords, and Japanese Art. Moreover, he also loved people and Columbus. He served on numerous community boards and in leadership positions to include: the Chattahoochee Council of Boy Scouts of America; the Columbus State University Foundation; the Columbus Regional Health Foundation; The Ronald McDonald House Charities of West Georgia; St. Paul United Methodist Church; Troy University; American Hospital Association; Georgia Hospital Association; The Rotary Club of Columbus; and the Columbus Technical College Foundation. He also served as a consultant to Denim North America where he was a constant advocate for the American Textile Industry. He loved young people and had a great love for Scouting. He has received numerous awards for his dedication to Scouting and its mission. And the current Boy Scout Service Center in Columbus is named in honor of him and his wife, Jo. He also established the George W. Jeter Foundation so that he could find other ways to support the causes that he championed throughout his life. 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.'' George William Jeter was always reaching back to help others to reach their full potential. Our country and humankind are better because he travelled this way. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join my wife, Vivian, and me, along with the 730,000 people of the Second Congressional District in extending condolences to his wife, Jo, their four children and two grandchildren and our gratitude for his life of service to humanity.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor and pleasure to extend my congratulations and best wishes to an outstanding leader, personal friend, and constituent, Ms. Krysta Harden, Deputy Secretary of Agriculture for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Ms. Harden has excelled at this position since she took office in August of 2013. She will be leaving her post at the end of February 2016. A Georgia native, Ms. Harden was born and raised in Camilla, Georgia and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism from the University of Georgia in 1981. Her career began on Capitol Hill, where she worked for former Congressman Charles Hatcher as Legislative Director, Press Secretary, and Chief of Staff for more than ten years. Ms. Harden went on to serve as Staff Director for the Subcommittee on Peanuts and Tobacco of the House Committee on Agriculture. In 1993, Ms. Harden left the public sector to work for Gordley Associates, a government relations firm focused on agricultural policy. Ms. Harden left the company in 2004 as Senior Vice President. From 2004 to 2009, she served as the Chief Executive Officer of the National Association of Conservation Districts. In 2009, Ms. Harden began her influential career at the U.S. Department of Agriculture as the Assistant Secretary for Congressional Relations. In this role, Ms. Harden was instrumental in securing passage of and implementing the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010, which increased the nutritional quality of school lunch programs and provides access for children of all economic backgrounds. In 2011, she was promoted to Chief of Staff of the Department of Agriculture. And in 2013, President Obama nominated Ms. Harden for the position of Deputy Secretary of Agriculture. Her nomination was unanimously approved by the Senate. Ms. Harden's steadfast leadership led to what Secretary Vilsack has called the ``best-implemented Farm Bill in history,'' referencing the 2014 Farm Bill in which Ms. Harden led the USDA's efforts to work with Congress to see the bill through to completion and implementation. Ms. Harden has been praised by many for her bipartisan and commonsense approach to policies and programs that expand opportunities for rural communities. Krysta Harden, a ``Georgia farm girl'' herself, has dedicated her career to serving our nation's farmers and promoting a thriving bio-based economy. As a friend of long standing and someone that I have had the honor to work with closely in developing legislative frameworks for farmer settlements, I can say with a full heart that I will miss working with Krysta in Washington. She has served admirably as Deputy Secretary of the USDA and has shown herself to represent the highest standards of public service. Ms. Harden has established a legacy of providing support for underrepresented groups--particularly women, young people, immigrants, disadvantaged producers, and veterans. I am very grateful for her tireless advocacy to diversify the nation's agriculture sector and her steadfast support for rural America. A woman of great integrity, her efforts, her dedication, and her expertise in her field are unparalleled and will be greatly missed. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in extending our sincerest appreciation and best wishes to Ms. Krysta Harden upon the occasion of her departure from an outstanding career at the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize four Macon, Georgia natives who played Negro League baseball: Marion Cain, Ernest Fann, Lemuel Hawkins, and Robert Scott. A ceremony to honor these men has been coordinated by Gordon Smith, an Eagle Scout candidate with Boy Scouts of America, Central Georgia Council, Troop 170, and will be held on Saturday, February 6, 2016 at Luther Williams Baseball Field in Macon, Georgia. Negro League baseball officially organized in 1920 and existed until the early 1960s. While segregation between professional teams hindered some competition for the leagues, the teams maintained a high level of professionalism and became centerpieces for economic growth in many black communities. The individuals who pursued careers in Negro League baseball contributed to a sense of pride and community during a time of oppression and segregation. As such, I would like to honor four Macon natives who continue to inspire those in their communities: Marion ``Sugar'' Cain, Ernest Fann, Lemuel Hawkins, and Robert Scott. Marion ``Sugar'' Cain was born on February 4, 1914 in Macon, Georgia. Cain was an esteemed pitcher but doubled in the outfield. He started his career with the Pittsburgh Crawfords, and went on to the Brooklyn Royal Giants, and then the Oakland Larks. Ernest Fann was born on July 24, 1943 and attended Ballard-Hudson High School in Macon. He led his baseball team to state championships in 1961 and 1962. He was a pitcher and catcher playing for the Atlanta Black Crackers, as well as teams in Brunswick, Georgia and Daytona, Florida. Lemuel Hawkins was born on October 2, 1895, and was a pitcher and first baseman for the Kansas City Monarchs, Chicago Giants, and Chicago American Giants. Hawkins was the first baseman for the Monarchs during the 1924 Negro League World Series. Robert Scott was born on June 22, 1931 and was a pitcher for the Macon Braves and Macon Cardinals. He also played with the New York Black Yankees, Boston Blues, and the Jackie Robinson Barnstorming Team. To commemorate these exceptional athletes, a ceremony will be held at Luther Williams Baseball Field where bronze plaques for each player will be placed. I would like to thank Gordon Smith for organizing this outstanding tribute as part of his leadership and service project as he works toward the rank of Eagle Scout. As a proud Eagle Scout myself, I am reminded of the great responsibility this signal honor carries: the responsibility to always exemplify the high principles embodied in the Scout Oath and Scout Law. Gordon's commitment to pay homage to and learn from the hard work and courage of those who came before him reflects the sincerity of his purpose, the strength of his determination, and the timbre of his character. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in recognizing the courage, determination, and legacy of these four Negro League baseball players from Macon, Georgia. Let us be grateful for the pride these men helped bring to disenfranchised communities and thankful for the changes that have since come, not only in the realm of baseball, but throughout our nation.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart and solemn remembrance that I rise today to pay tribute to a respected athlete, coach, author, and family man, Robert Walter ``Bobby'' Dews. Sadly, Bobby Dews passed away on Saturday, December 26, 2015. A private funeral service was attended by close family and friends. Mr. Dews was a longtime resident of Georgia and graduated from Edison High School in Calhoun County before attending the Georgia Institute of Technology, where he played baseball and basketball. As a young man, Bobby Dews was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals. He was an infielder on the team for eight years before beginning his managerial career. Mr. Dews eventually returned to Georgia and served as manager, scout, and coach for the Atlanta Braves for over 30 years. In recognition of his successful career in baseball, Mr. Dews was inducted into Georgia Tech's Hall of Fame. Bobby Dews was not only a natural athlete and baseball enthusiast but also a masterful storyteller, publishing several novels and books of short poetry and prose. After retiring from the Braves, Mr. Dews remained involved in the community and served as the writer-in- residence for Andrew College in Cuthbert, Georgia, where he had previously received his Associate's degree. Mr. Dews was truly an asset to the Atlanta and Edison communities and the state of Georgia. A prominent sports figure in the state, Bobby Dews will be remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing this inspiring mentor and humble friend. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, ``Life's most urgent question is: What are you doing for others?'' Bobby Dews committed a prodigious amount of time and love to service others and shared his own enthusiasm and wisdom in order to better those around him. In life and in death, Mr. Dews has left a lasting impact on all those who he mentored over the years. Bobby Dews leaves behind his loving wife of 39 years, Glenda; his daughter, Dana; and his grandson and namesake, Robert Dawson Gates. Additionally, Mr. Dews is survived by his sister, stepsister, and two stepbrothers as well as several nieces and nephews who will miss him dearly. He was a longtime member of the First United Methodist Church of Edison, Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to join me and my wife, Vivian, in extending our deepest sympathies to Bobby Dews' family and friends during this difficult time. May they be consoled and comforted by their abiding faith in the Holy Spirit in the days, weeks and months ahead.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor and pleasure to extend my personal congratulations and best wishes to an exceptional public servant and outstanding citizen, Commissioner A.J. Rivers, on the occasion of his retirement as City Commissioner of Cordele, Georgia. When Mr. Rivers was elected City Commissioner in 1972, he became the first African American elected to city-wide office in Cordele. Since that time, he has served his community zealously and with unparalleled commitment. Commissioner Rivers served our nation with honor and distinction in World War II from 1943 to 1946. He graduated from the Holsey-Cobb Institute in Cordele in 1947. He worked for North Carolina Mutual Insurance Company for 53 years--35 of those years in management and 18 years in agency. He was certified as an Instructor for Insurance Courses by the State Insurance Commissioner's Office in 1983. Beyond his duties and responsibilities as a public servant, Commissioner Rivers has also dedicated his personal life to serving his community. He has served as a Scout Master; Westside Chairperson of the American Cancer Society; Westside Chairperson of the American Red Cross; President of the 8th District of the Georgia Municipal Association in 2006; President and Corporate Board Member of Big/ Brother Big Sister of South Georgia in 2006; and President of the Gillespie Development and Day Care Center for 17 years. He is a member of the American Legion; NAACP; Cordele Community Advancement Council; Crisp County Chamber Executive Committee; and Board of Directors for River Valley Regional Commission, among many other community and professional organizations. Notably, Commissioner Rivers is the Founder and President of the Historical Awards Committee. Always a mentor to those who worked and lived around him, Commissioner Rivers possesses the rare quality of humble leadership. Throughout his career, Commissioner Rivers has been recognized for his commitment and leadership in the community. His awards and accolades include the 8th District Community Award from the Georgia Municipal Association in 1994; the USDA Rural Development Steadfast Award in 2002; and the Distinguished Citizen of the Year Award from the Cordele Lions Club in 2014. Commissioner Rivers' Christian faith has always instilled within him a desire to positively shape the community in which he lives. As a lifetime member of Mount Calvary Baptist Church, he regularly incorporates his faith into his commitment to public service. After retirement, Commissioner Rivers will enjoy spending time with his wife, Vera, and their four children, six grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. Commissioner Rivers has accomplished much in his life, but none of it would be possible without the love and support of the family he cherishes so dearly. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in extending our sincerest appreciation and best wishes to Commissioner A.J. Rivers upon the occasion of his retirement from an outstanding career spanning 44 years as City Commissioner of Cordele, Georgia.