Sanford Bishop

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. I thank the gentlewoman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, first of all, I would like to thank Chairman Dent for his hard work on the subcommittee. He has been a tremendous partner. I would like to thank Chairman Rogers and Ranking Member Lowey for their strong bipartisan leadership. And certainly, I would like to thank our staffs for their hard work. Today's omnibus reflects what the FY16 MILCON-VA bill should have looked like during full House consideration. Discretionary funding for VA programs in today's agreement is $71.4 billion, $6.4 billion above the FY15-enacted level. This agreement fully funds major construction within the VA budget. As you may recall, this was a significant issue in the House bill. There are a number of good things to highlight within the bill that will have a profound impact on the lives of our Nation's veterans. For example, we have the opportunity to completely eradicate hepatitis C for our Nation's veterans, and so we raised the amount for funding for treatment to $1.5 billion. Additionally, in order to combat veterans' homelessness, suicide, and PTSD, we have also included $7.5 billion for mental healthcare services. That being said, Mr. Speaker, it is high time that we return to regular order; and by regular order, I mean the process that starts with a realistic allocation, enabling the Appropriations Committee to meet our Nation's fiscal needs. I believe that if the Appropriations Committee were given a fair chance, we could have completed our work months ago. Mr. Speaker, the process has much room for improvement. Governing through the use of omnibus is not a wise practice, so I believe that we must work to return to regular order, utilizing the entire legislative process to determine how our government invests in the American people. Truly, regular order is better for the committee, for the Members, and for this august institution in which we serve. Nevertheless, while the omnibus is not perfect, far from it, we cannot let the perfect be the enemy of the good. This is a good bill, and I urge my colleagues to pass it.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commend Major Adam F. McCombs for his exemplary dedication to duty and his service to the United States Army and to our great nation. Most recently, Adam served as an Army Congressional Fellow and Congressional Budget Liaison for the Assistant Secretary of the Army (Financial Management and Comptroller). He will be transitioning from his present assignment to serve as an Advisor in the Office of the Program Manager, Saudi Arabian National Guard, United States Army. A native of Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina, Adam was commissioned as an Armor officer after his graduation from the United States Military Academy at West Point with a Bachelor of Science degree. He has since earned a Master's degree in Legislative Affairs from the George Washington University. Adam has served in a broad range of assignments during his Army career. Prior to working as an Army Congressional Budget Liaison, Adam's assignments included serving as Scout Platoon Leader and Troop Executive Officer in 3rd Brigade, 4th Infantry Division at Fort Carson, Colorado; Company Commander of a Warrior Transition Company at Fort Knox, Kentucky; and Assistant S3 in the 25th Infantry Division Headquarters Battalion and Cavalry Troop Commander in 3rd Brigade, 25th Infantry Division at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. Adam has commanded Soldiers in combat as a Platoon Leader and Troop Commander. He deployed in direct support of combat operations in Iraq in 2005-2006, and deployed to Afghanistan in 2008-2009 and again in 2011-2012. The Second Congressional District of Georgia gained a compassionate and knowledgeable resource in 2013 when Adam was selected to work in my Washington, D.C. office as an Army Congressional Fellow. In this capacity, Adam handled military and veterans issues from a legislative and casework perspective and worked closely with the staff on the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Subcommittee. Next, in his role as a Congressional Budget Liaison, he continued to collaborate with the House and Senate Appropriations Committees, ensuring that the Army's budget positions were extremely well represented and articulated to the Committees. Major Adam McCombs' leadership throughout his career has positively impacted his Soldiers, peers, and superiors. Our country has been enriched by his extraordinary leadership, thoughtful judgment, and exemplary work. Mr. Speaker, today I ask my colleagues to join me, my wife, Vivian, the more than 730,000 residents of Georgia's Second Congressional District, and all Americans, in extending our sincerest appreciation to Major Adam F. McCombs for his distinguished service to our nation. In addition to gratitude for his selfless service and instrumental role in supporting operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, Major McCombs has the respect, admiration, and affection of many on Capitol Hill. We wish him and his wife, Traci, all the best as they continue their journey in the United States Army.

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 terrific educator and beloved mother, grandmother and cousin, Mrs. Maggie Louise Knight Knox of Martin County, North Carolina. Sadly, Mrs. Knox passed away on Saturday, November 28, 2015. A Homegoing Celebration will be held on Friday, December 4, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at the Michigan Park Christian Church in Washington, D.C. Born on February 3, 1928 to the late Annie Slade Knight and Eddie Knight, Maggie Louise Knight Knox, known as Louise or Lou to family and friends, grew up on the family farm in Martin County, North Carolina. She developed a passion for education early on and immediately upon graduation from Winston Salem State University, she began her teaching career within the Charles County Public School System. Her abiding commitment to education was reflected in her personal academic achievements, as she pursued a higher level of education with her enrollment at the D.C. Teachers' College. She participated in the Teachers' Program at Columbia University, culminating in her receipt of a Master's Degree in Education at Trinity College. Ultimately, Maggie Louise accepted a tenured position as a third grade teacher at J.C. Nalle Elementary School in Southeast Washington, D.C. After nurturing and educating three generations of students, Maggie Louise retired with more than thirty years of service as an educator. She was considered to be one of the most respected Reading Specialists in District of Columbia Public Schools. Even after her retirement and to this day, she is fondly remembered by many of her students. Her passion for education mirrored her everlasting faith as a woman of God. Accepting Christ as her Savior at an early age, Maggie Louise began her Christian life in Martin County, North Carolina and continued her Christian journey in Washington, D.C. where she became an active member in Michigan Park Christian Church in 1960. She brought her God- given teaching talents into the church, teaching Vacation Bible School and Sunday school. She was a chairperson of the Diaconate and a member the Christian Women's Fellowship. As is the church's tradition, in her eightieth year of life, Maggie Louise Knight Knox was humbly inducted into the Diamond Club. To Maggie Louise, family was everything. It was on May 5, 1950, in Washington, D.C., that Maggie Louise married her loving husband, Mr. Reese Conway Knox. Devoted and committed to each other, the union of Maggie Louise and Reese produced three beautiful daughters: Regina Louise, Denise Yvette and Edna Teresa. On a more personal note, Maggie Louise and I are born of the same lineage--the Slades of North Carolina. The union of Simon and Anna Slade produced thirteen children. Of those children, Walter Columbus Slade (grandfather of Maggie Louise) and Robert Slade (my grandfather), were born. Maggie retained many valuable lessons from her youth, but the most important one came from her grandfather, Walter Columbus Slade: ``Always stick together.'' Maggie fervently adopted this as a guiding force throughout her life and passed that same value to her daughters and grandchildren. The concept of ``staying together'' is extremely important in our family. We annually gather for reunions throughout the nation and remain close with one another throughout our lives. 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.'' Maggie Louise was a gentle and loving woman who treated all people with respect. She loved her God. Her wisdom and kindness goes unmatched, and her gentle soul served humanity in a special way. Each day she graced the people around her with an enthusiastic sincerity of presence. The impression she leaves on earth extends beyond herself to those whom she inspired and supported, and for it she will be remembered for time to come. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me and my wife, Vivian, in paying tribute to Mrs. Maggie Louise Knight Knox for her outstanding achievements, service, and public distinction. We pray that her children, grandchildren and loved ones 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 recognize and commend an outstanding public servant and champion of education, Mr. Luther Conyers. Mr. Conyers will be retiring this month after serving 37 years on the Bainbridge City Council in Bainbridge, Georgia. He was first elected to the Bainbridge City Council in 1977 but his passion as an educator began long before then. Mr. Conyers earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture in 1948 from Georgia State Industrial College, now Savannah State University, where he met his wife, Gwendolyn. Their daughters, Audrey and Luthenya, and their granddaughter, Leslie also attended Savannah State University so it is no wonder that the Conyers family was chosen as ``SSU Family of the Year'' in 2009. Mr. and Mrs. Conyers, co- sponsors of the Conyers-Kirbo Endowed Scholarship Fund for the school, were inducted into the 2015 Hall of Fame at Savannah State University. Mr. Conyers first taught in the Institutional On-Farm Training Program designed for World War II veterans before joining the U.S. Army. He completed basic training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina and advanced training at Fort Bliss, Texas, before deploying to Korea, where he served 16 months and 27 days. He earned three Bronze Stars as a member of the transportation crew and he taught education classes while deployed. After returning home to Bainbridge in 1942, he served as a substitute teacher and enrolled at Fort Valley State College, now University. He was employed at Randolph County High School for six months, and beginning in 1954, he taught at Bainbridge Elementary School. He earned a Master's in Education from Florida A&M University in 1961. In 1965, he transferred to Hutto High School in Bainbridge to teach social studies before transferring to Hutto Junior High School in 1970, where he taught eighth and ninth grade. Throughout his tenure of service on the Bainbridge City Council, Mr. Conyers has been a champion of education but most importantly, he has given his all to improving the community he serves. In recognition of his efforts, in 2008, Mr. Conyers was inducted into the Georgia Municipal Government Hall of Fame, which ``recognizes current and former city officials who have made extraordinary contributions to their communities and actively participated in the Association.'' In 2012, he was one of four city officials to receive the prestigious Certificate of Distinction from the Georgia Municipal Training Institute at the Georgia Municipal Association's (GMA) Annual Mayors' Day Conference. He has actively served on GMA committees that oversee employee retirement benefits and training courses for leaders of cities across Georgia. Mr. Conyers is heavily involved in the community and is a member of the Rotary Club, American Legion Post No. 502, National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, and Bainbridge-Decatur County Chamber of Commerce. He is also the City Council's liaison to the city's Planning Commission and teaches about planning and zoning issues during Bainbridge's annual Student Government Days. Dr. Benjamin E. Mays often said: ``You make your living by what you get, you make your life by what you give.'' Throughout his life, Mr. Conyers has done so much for so many for so long. He is an example of public service at its finest and his advocacy on behalf of students of all ages has been invaluable throughout the state of Georgia. His service to his country and his community are but a small testimony to the high caliber of character that he embodies. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to join me and my wife Vivian, and the more than 730,000 people of Georgia's Second Congressional District, in recognizing and commending Mr. Luther Conyers for his leadership in education and service to his community.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an outstanding public servant, respected businessman, and loving husband, father, and friend, Mr. Claybon J. Edwards. Sadly, Mr. Edwards passed away on Tuesday, November 3, 2015. A funeral service was held on Sunday, November 8, 2015 at 3:00 p.m. at the Peach County High School Auditorium in Fort Valley, Georgia. Often affectionately referred to as ``Clay,'' Mr. Edwards was born in Fort Valley to Martin and Julia Edwards. In 1950, Mr. Edwards earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Morris Brown College in Atlanta, Georgia. Upon graduation, he represented Morris Brown College in a Chicago-based Life Insurance Program sponsored by Supreme Life Insurance Company. The program was established for business administration graduates from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Mr. Edwards then went on to serve our nation honorably in the military for two years. In 1963, Mr. Edwards joined his father and his brother, A.J., in the family business at Edwards Funeral Home. He attended Worsham College of Mortuary Science of Chicago and then relocated to Fort Valley, where he became a licensed embalmer and funeral director of Georgia. Later, Edwards Funeral Home was renamed to C.J. Edwards Funeral Home, Inc. and Mr. Edwards became President and CEO. The foundational values of the funeral home did not change, however, and it remained very much a family business. Mr. Edwards' wife, Mary, their daughter, Denise, and son-in-law Anthony, along with Mr. Edwards' sister, Mary Julia, and her daughter Karen, are all involved in the operation of the funeral home. In addition, Mr. Edwards founded Edwards Insurance Agency to add to the business structure. Mr. Edwards put as much love into serving his community as he did into his businesses. He served numerous organizations, including the NAACP, Alpha Phi Alpha and Sigma Pi Phi fraternities, and various funeral service trade associations. He was also a Deacon at Trinity Baptist Church in Fort Valley, Georgia. In 1970, Mr. Edwards became the first African American to be elected to serve on the City Council in Fort Valley. He served four terms and served as Mayor Pro Tem for two years. Claybon Edwards accomplished 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 forty-five years, Mary; daughter, Denise; three grandchildren, Sabastian, Samantha, Courtney, and Caitlin; and one great-grandchild, Saniya. Mr. Speaker, my wife Vivian and I, along with the more than 730,000 people of the Second Congressional District, salute Claybon J. Edwards for his dedicated service to his community. I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join us in extending our deepest sympathies to his family, friends and loved ones during this difficult time. 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 legendary singer and activist in the Civil Rights Movement, Miss Rutha Mae Harris. Miss Harris will be celebrating her 75th birthday on Friday, November 27, 2015. Miss Rutha Harris was born on November 27, 1940 in Albany, Georgia to the late Reverend and Mrs. I.A. Harris. She attended Albany's public schools, graduating from Monroe High School in 1958 and Albany State College, now Albany State University, in 1970. She also studied at Valdosta State University, Dillard University, and Florida A&M University. In 1961, Miss Harris, who always had a love and talent for singing, joined the Original Freedom Singers. The Freedom Singers traveled more than 50,000 miles singing for the cause of freedom and raising funds for the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC). During the Albany Movement, Miss Harris was thrown several times into the same jail where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was jailed on multiple occasions. In 1963, the Freedom Singers were signed to a recording contract with Mercury Records. This was the beginning of Miss Harris's professional career and helped propel her to the national stage. She performed in 46 states and the Virgin Islands, in renowned venues such as Radio City Music Hall in New York City and the Civic Opera House in Chicago, Illinois. The Freedom Singers also performed at the March on Washington in Washington, D.C. in 1963. In addition to performing with the Freedom Singers, Miss Harris also recorded with the Landmark Gospel Singers, Georgia Mass Choir, and the legendary Whitney Houston. One of the highlights of Miss Harris's professional career was being selected to perform with the Georgia Mass Choir in the film, ``The Preacher's Wife,'' starring Whitney Houston and Denzel Washington. In 2004, Miss Harris recorded her first album, ``I'm on the Battlefield.'' In 1998, Miss Harris organized the Albany Civil Rights Museum (now Institute) Freedom Singers. This group performs every second Saturday of the month and travels to other cities. This group, along with the Albany Civil Rights Institute, helps to keep the Albany Movement alive for younger generations to learn of the passion and sacrifices made by their ancestors. Miss Harris has been widely recognized for her music, her involvement in the Civil Rights Movement, and her continued activism. She received the Martin Luther King Dream Award in 2001 and the Trailblazer Award for Outstanding Work Preserving, Promoting, and Advancing the Tradition of African American Music in 2013, among many other awards and accolades. On February 9, 2010, Miss Harris had the honor of performing at the White House for President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama in a special event, ``In Performance at the White House: A Celebration of Music from the Civil Rights Movement.'' Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, ``Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.'' The Freedom Singers brought light and love to those on both sides of the Civil Rights Movement. Miss Harris has helped to keep this light and love alive through her continued performances and her efforts to preserve the successes of the Movement for younger generations to enjoy. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me and my wife, Vivian, in commending and recognizing Miss Rutha Mae Harris for the inspiring life that she leads. We extend our best wishes to her as she and her family and friends prepare to celebrate her 75th birthday.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in opposition to H.R. 1694, the Fairness to Veterans for Infrastructure Investment Act of 2015. As the Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee for Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies and the co-chair of the Military Family Caucus, I strongly support efforts to ensure veterans have access to opportunities needed to become successful in the workforce. Simply, H.R. 1694 makes veterans compete against women- and minority- owned small businesses for an already small goal of ten percent of federal highway and transit construction contracts. While I agree with the sponsor's stated goal of helping veterans and veteran-owned businesses, I do not believe that the best way to do so is by legally undermining the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise program. Instead, we should help both veterans and disadvantaged businesses succeed. That is why I joined Representatives Cummings, Norton, Brown, and Bustos in sponsoring H.R. 3997, which would create a Veteran-owned Business Enterprise (VBE) program within the Department of Transportation with a stated national goal of ensuring at least 10 percent of federal highway contracts go to veteran-owned small businesses. Instead, creating a specific and separate contracting goal for veteran-owned businesses is a better way to maximize assistance to veterans, as opposed to forcing competition between these two constituencies, both of whom continue to suffer through disproportionately high unemployment rates. I urge my colleagues to help veteran-owned businesses compete for Department of Transportation contracts without harming the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise program by supporting H.R. 3997 and not H.R. 1694.

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 an outstanding businesswoman, respected philanthropist, and beloved servant of humankind, Mrs. Jane Seddon Willson. Mrs. Willson passed away on Tuesday, November 3, 2015. A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 7, 2015 at First United Methodist Church in Albany, Georgia, with interment to follow at Westview Cemetery in Atlanta, Georgia. Born in New York City in 1923, Mrs. Willson graduated from Wellesley College in Massachusetts in 1945. Six years later, she moved to Albany, Georgia with her husband, the late William Harry Willson, to manage his family's small pecan orchard. After the success of their mail-order pecan business, the move to the farm in Albany was simply the next step. What started as a small family business quickly expanded into two large companies. As President and Secretary of both Willson Farming and Sunnyland Farms, Mrs. Willson orchestrated the global expansion that continues to make both companies successful. Because of Mrs. Willson's business savvy, people in countries around the world now enjoy a variety of nuts and nut products from Georgia, which has contributed greatly to the state's economy. Mrs. Willson put as much, if not more, love and effort into serving her community as she did into her businesses. She served as board chairman of the Albany-Dougherty Inner City Authority and the United Way of Southwest Georgia. She also served on the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Board; the Albany Technical College Board; the Albany State University Foundation; and the Darton State College Foundation. She was the first woman to serve on the Board of Directors of Bellsouth Telecommunications. In addition, Mrs. Willson's service as President of the Board of Directors for the Boys & Girls Club of Albany has left a lasting mark upon the organization. She not only served on the Board for many years, but also donated the funds to build the Jane Willson Unit. This year, the Boys & Girls Club of Albany will be presenting its first ``Harry and Jane Willson Partner of the Year'' award to an organization that best emanates the couple's spirit of philanthropy. An avid supporter of the arts, Mrs. Willson also helped with the establishment of the Albany Museum of Art, and later, the museum's Jane and Harry Willson Auditorium. Her drive to help her community further resulted in the creation of the Willson Hospice House. Because of her $1 million donation, the Willson Hospice House is able to provide inpatient care to people who have been diagnosed with a terminal illness. Yet her generosity has not been confined to Southwest Georgia. Mrs. Willson donated millions of dollars to the University of Georgia, where she served as a UGA Foundation Trustee and as a board member of the UGA Research Foundation. She also made a $1 million donation in honor of her daughter, Jane, to Valley Children's Hospital in Madera, California. Mrs. Willson's generosity and altruism served as an inspiration to all who knew her, myself included. She donated more than just funding to every organization to which she was connected--she was a prominent part of the fabric of each institution. George Washington Carver once said, ``No individual has any right to come into the world and go out of it without leaving behind distinct and legitimate reasons for having passed through it.'' We are all so blessed that Mrs. Jane Willson, an inspirational human being of incredible compassion and integrity, passed our way and during her life's journey did so much for so many for so long. She leaves behind a great legacy in service to her beloved family and to all those whose lives she touched through her kindness and generosity. She will truly be missed. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me, my wife Vivian, and the Albany, Georgia community in honoring Mrs. Jane Seddon Willson for her outstanding contributions to the community. We extend our deepest sympathies to her family, friends and loved ones during this difficult time and 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 recognize and commend Sergeant Major Alan M. Gibson, the Division G3 Sergeant Major for the 4th Infantry and Fort Carson, Colorado, who will be retiring from the United States Army after 32 years of distinguished service to the United States of America. He will be honored at a retirement ceremony on Friday, October 30, 2015 at Fort Benning, Georgia. A Georgia man through and through, Sergeant Major Alan Gibson is originally from Columbus, Georgia and graduated from Morris Brown College in Atlanta, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Therapeutic Recreation/Kinesiology in 1982. He is currently working on a Master's degree from Central Michigan University. SGM Gibson joined the United States Army in October 1983 and completed basic training at Fort McClelland, Alabama and Advanced Individual Training at Fort Benning, Georgia. In his first assignment, he served as an Infantryman in the Berlin Brigade from March 1984 to October 1985. After departing Berlin, Germany, SGM Gibson attended Airborne School and the Ranger Indoctrination Program (RIP) prior to being assigned to 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, at Fort Benning while he served as a Rifleman, Team Leader, and Squad Leader from October 1985 to April 1989. In fact, he would return to Fort Benning several times throughout his career. He also served in numerous leadership and staff positions at Fort Myer, Virginia; Yongsan, Korea; Fort Monroe, Virginia; and Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, where he was the Sergeant Major for the Center for Army Leadership for the Combined Arms Center (CAC). SGM Gibson served four combat tours, including Operation Just Cause in Panama; Operation Iraqi Freedom 1 in Iraq; Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF 13-14) in Afghanistan; and he deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Kuwait. SGM Gibson is a highly decorated non-commissioned Army officer. His numerous awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal with V devices, Bronze Star w/ 1OLC, Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge (2nd Award), Expert Infantryman Badge, Master Parachutist Badge with Bronze Star, Pathfinder Badge, Aviation Crewmember Badge, Canadian Parachutist Badge, German Schutzenschnur Badge (Silver), and the coveted Ranger Tab, among many others. SGM Gibson also was awarded the Order of Saint Maurice (Infantry), and Order of The Combat Spurs (Cavalry). On a personal note, I am proud to call SGM Alan Gibson my friend. I have witnessed firsthand his compassionate leadership and his enduring dedication to our great nation. Throughout his distinguished career, SGM Gibson has consistently exhibited the Seven Core Army Values of Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage. SGM Gibson has certainly accomplished many things in his life but none of this would have been possible without the love and support of his wife, Cheryl, and their three daughters, Asia Rochelle, Alana Shantelle and Ariel Danae. Mr. Speaker, today I ask my colleagues to join me and my wife, Vivian, in extending our sincerest gratitude and best wishes to Sergeant Major Alan Gibson and his family, on the occasion of his retirement from a stellar career of 32 years in the United States Army.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to pay tribute to a devoted community leader, respected businessman, and loving father, husband, and dear friend, Harold ``Lefty'' Encarnacion. Sadly, Lefty, as he was affectionately known, passed away Tuesday, October 13, 2015. A candlelight vigil was held the very next evening with over 100 members of the community in attendance to share stories and give remembrance to Lefty and his service to the Columbus, Georgia community. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, October 28, 2015 at 7:00 p.m. at Ambassadors of Christ Fellowship in Columbus, Georgia. Harold ``Lefty'' Encarnacion was born on May 10, 1953 in the Bronx, New York to Puerto Rican immigrants. He worked as a maintenance supervisor at Fort Hamilton in New York and ran a small nightclub. Looking for a safer and more peaceful place to raise their family, Harold and his wife, Millie, moved to Columbus, Georgia in 1983. Upon arriving, Harold worked numerous jobs, including cab driving. Millie was a manager at a food market. After noticing a lack of resources for the Latino population of Columbus, Harold and his wife opened their own grocery store called Millie's International Market in Columbus, which sold a variety of ethnic foods and seasonings. The store quickly became a staple in Columbus, as well as a community center for the area's Hispanic and Caribbean populations. Although Millie's was successful in bringing together the Latino community of Columbus, Lefty believed there was more to be done to unify and empower this segment of the population. He managed Columbus' only Hispanic radio station, UNIDOS 107.7 FM until it closed in 2014. But in 2013, after many years of planning, Lefty partnered with Columbus City Councilor, Mimi Woodsen, to launch the inaugural Tri-City Latino Festival. The Tri-City Latino Festival is a tremendously successful celebration, and now a tradition, that brings together the Latino communities in the Chattahoochee Valley to celebrate this vibrant culture. It shows that this is an area that thrives on its diversity and unites members of the community to honor the struggle, sacrifice and success of their ancestors from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Lefty was a beloved community leader and pioneer and his contributions to the city of Columbus will be remembered for years to come. More so, his kindness and emphatic resolve to push his community forward will live on through those who knew and loved him. On a personal note, I am proud to have called Lefty my friend of many years. Mr. Speaker, my wife Vivian and I, along with the more than 700,000 residents of the Second Congressional District, salute Harold ``Lefty'' Encarnacion for his efforts to empower the Latino population of Columbus, Georgia and his everlasting commitment to his community. I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join us in extending our deepest condolences to Lefty's family and friends during this difficult time. 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 recognize the importance of the forest products industry as we celebrate National Forest Products Week. The forest products industry provides critical contributions to the economy of Georgia and the United States. In my home state of Georgia, forestry and logging activities employ over 8,600 people; wood products manufacturing facilities employ over 16,800; and pulp and paper manufacturing facilities provide over 18,800 jobs--amounting to a minimum of 44,200 jobs provided by the forest products industry in the State of Georgia alone. Furthermore, these industries contribute over $2 billion to annual payrolls in Georgia, which underscores the vitality of the forestry industry to the state's economy. In addition to the positive economic impact, the forest products industry has made important technological advances in building design to improve the energy efficiency, speed of construction, and environmental performance of buildings. Industry innovation has created new opportunities to expand the use of wood building materials in construction by providing more cost-savings, quicker construction times, and fewer impacts to the environment than alternative building materials. In fact, lumber is the only building material that naturally-impounds carbon, significantly reducing the overall carbon footprint of a construction project. Additionally, wood manufacturing requires far less energy and results in fewer greenhouse gas emissions than other common construction materials, as noted in a study by the U.S. Forest Service. As Americans continue to improve the energy efficiency of our buildings, it is essential that we encourage the use of wood in homes and buildings, particularly federal government buildings, where the efficiency savings gained from using forest products can be passed on to the taxpayers. Given the positive economic and environmental impact on Georgia and on the country as whole, I am pleased to honor the fine companies and employees of this industry during National Forest Products Week.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to extend my personal congratulations to my former college professor, Dr. Delores Stephens of Morehouse College, upon her receipt of the Vulcan Materials Company's Teaching Excellence Award for the 2015-2016 academic year. Professor Stephens has served Morehouse College faithfully as a Professor of English since 1964. Presaging her future success in academia, Professor Stephens graduated as valedictorian from Spelman College, where she earned a B.A. in English. She went on to earn an M.A. in English and American Literature from Atlanta University, and a Ph.D. in English at the prestigious Emory University. In fact, her academic accomplishments are not limited to the United States. She has also received a certificate of completion from the University of London and a Testamur from the University of Exeter. Prior to teaching at Morehouse, she was a member of the faculty at the Atlanta School of Business, as well as Norfolk State University and Dillard University. Professor Stephens arrived at Morehouse College in 1964, and has since played an integral role throughout the campus. She served as chair of the English department for seven years, and was elected to the Executive Committee of the Association of Departments of English. Professor Stephens also served as an associate editor of the Journal of Negro History for many years. Professor Stephens' dedication to students extends beyond the classroom. She is a charter member of Sigma Tau Delta International English Honor Society, organized at Morehouse in 1976. She has been recognized by the national office as the Upsilon Nu Chapter's sponsor for twenty years. In addition, Professor Stephens has served as a reader for the Educational Testing Services (ETS) for AP examinations and for testing and validation of the SAT Writing Examination. Her advice and tutelage is highly sought after, and she assists by mentoring numerous current and former students. On a personal note, I was fortunate enough to be a student of Professor Stephens' and also to serve as a student assistant in her office during my freshman and sophomore years at Morehouse. I greatly benefited from her wise counsel and sage advice, which I carried with me through law school and my career, as well as throughout my time in the state legislature and now, in the United States Congress. Mr. Speaker, today I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating and honoring an outstanding educator and dear mentor, Professor Delores Stephens. I firmly believe that Professor Stephens helped lead me on the path that has brought me to where I am today, and she has charitably provided the same level of astute guidance to many who have come before and after me. We should all aspire to build such a prolific and inspirational legacy as Professor Delores Stephens.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Chair, I come to the floor today to express my support of H.R. 702, much-needed legislation which will lift the arbitrary ban on the export of one of our country's most abundant natural resources: crude oil. The current ban on exports is a relic of a different time before we as a nation knew just how much crude oil we have stored in the earth across this country. We are entirely too dependent on foreign oil sources, particularly from countries who have no regard for the American economy. Today is different. In fact, from the period between 2000 and 2013, U.S. production of crude oil increased by nearly fourteenfold, from 250,000 barrels per day to 3.5 million. With this large amount of excess capacity, we can sell our oil to the global markets, which will bring U.S. crude prices in line with global prices, and global prices will go down because of the increased supply. No less than 68 percent of consumers' cost of gasoline--and 57 percent for diesel fuel--come from the price of the source: crude oil. Numerous studies have shown that the increased global supply will lead to lower prices at the pump. Not only will consumers have more money to spend on school supplies, food, clothing, and other household staples, but the prices of these goods will go down because the cost to transport them from manufacturer to store will decrease. Possibly, more importantly, we have to consider the security implications of allowing the export of crude. We are in the position of showing the world that we can provide a stable source of energy to friendly countries around the globe. Our supplies will dilute the market share of unfriendly countries and weaken their grip on our democratic ally nations who have to depend on some of our unfriendly countries for their oil supplies. We can provide an alternative source to those who don't want to support our adversaries and their adversaries. So I thank my colleagues Mr. Cuellar and Mr. Barton for bringing forth this critically important legislation. I urge my colleagues in the House to vote ``yes'' on H.R. 702.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor and pleasure to extend my sincere congratulations to the congregation of Wehadkee Missionary Baptist Church in Roanoke, Alabama as they celebrate a remarkable 141 years. An anniversary celebration will be held on Sunday, October 11, 2015. The Wehadkee Missionary Baptist Church is one of the oldest African- American churches in Randolph County, Alabama. Throughout its 141-year history, the church has been a bridge over troubled waters for the African-American community of Wehadkee-High Shoals-Springfield. Under the name ``Perhaps,'' the church was established in 1874, just eleven years after President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. The church held its first services in a very small log cabin one mile south of its current location, which is 1216 County Road 310 in Roanoke, Alabama. Reverend Spy Flag was the founding Pastor of the church, serving from 1874 until approximately 1884. Between 1884 and 1918, ten ministers led the church: Reverend Ben Goss, Reverend Symon Vickers, Reverend Aaron Strong, Reverend Tom Almond, Reverend Charlie Steward, Reverend Spencer Beasley, Reverend A.E. Stitt, Reverend John T. Hines, Reverend A.J. Turner, and Reverend A.J. Green. From 1918 to 1972, the six pastors who led the church included Reverend S.A. Adamson, Reverend C.C. Terry, Reverend G.W. Sims, Reverend J.P. Madison, Reverend B.O. Phillips, and Reverend R.L. Thompson. In March 1973, Reverend Elijah Jackson, Jr. was called to lead the flock and in April 1974, the Wehadkee Missionary Baptist Church was incorporated. In October of that same year, Reverend Jackson presided over the church's first centennial celebration. For the past 42 years, Reverend Jackson has led the congregation with distinction as the longest serving Pastor of the church. His spouse, First Lady Farris Jackson, plays an important role in his ministry. Mr. Speaker, I proudly join President Obama in celebrating the 141st anniversary of the Wehadkee Missionary Baptist Church. I am pleased to join in celebrating your 141st anniversary. Throughout our Nation's history, places of worship have brought us together in the spirit of faith and love. Offering space for celebration in times of joy and comfort in times of uncertainty, they help foster a strong sense of community and call on us to meet life's most sacred responsibility--to give of ourselves in service to others. As you mark this special milestone, I hope you take pride in your community's commitment to faith. May the years ahead be filled with continued blessings. Barack Obama. The White House, August 28, 2015.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor and pleasure to extend my sincere congratulations to the congregation of Greater Beallwood Baptist Church in Columbus, Georgia as they celebrate a remarkable 139 years. An anniversary celebration will be held on Sunday, October 11, 2015 at 2:30 p.m. at the church in Columbus. The event will also be an opportunity to welcome Reverend Adrian J. Chester as the church's new pastor. Greater Beallwood Baptist Church traces its roots back to the post- Civil War era in 1876, when Beallwood Baptist Church was first organized under the leadership of Reverend Boston Miles and Deacon Albert Harper. Over the years, the church would see many outstanding leaders but perhaps the most noteworthy were Reverend I.S.H. Allen, who served sixteen fruitful years from 1920 until his passing in 1936, and Reverend James Carter Cook, who served for four decades as the church grew and flourished tremendously. In addition to the achievements of pastors, many laymen have also made significant contributions to the life of the church. In 1905, Deacon Eddie Borders became chairman of the Board of Deacons and served for over fifty years. The church would see many more dedicated citizen leaders, men and women, called to serve all the way into the 21st century. In 1956, Beallwood Baptist Church became incorporated and the name was changed to Greater Beallwood Baptist Church, Inc. A growing church membership at Greater Beallwood meant pastors had a larger flock to shepherd. In 1975, Greater Beallwood began meeting in worship every Sunday morning, rather than two Sundays out of the month. The church then called upon its first assistant pastor, Reverend Billy J. Carter, to assist in growing pastoral duties. In January 1987, the church was blessed when the Lord placed Reverend Willie L. Hill over this flock. Much was accomplished during Rev. Hill's twenty-eight years as pastor, including increased participation in the learning programs of the church, especially Sunday School and Bible Study. In 2010, Rev. Hill instituted Children's Church for children ages 5 through 12. Not only did Rev. Hill's leadership grow the congregation in number and in spirit, but it also was instrumental in the building of a new sanctuary that would accommodate the numerous church services and meetings. In 2014, God had strategically placed Reverend Adrian J. Chester as the church's first youth pastor. After Rev. Hill's retirement in 2015, Rev. Chester became the seventeenth pastor of Greater Beallwood Baptist Church. Today, Greater Beallwood is blessed to have numerous ministries and fellowship opportunities. Fellowship at Greater Beallwood is characterized by unconditional love, rich in relationship with God, family, and friends. The members of Greater Beallwood reflect this idea of fellowship throughout the community by serving those in need. The story of the Greater Beallwood Baptist Church, which began as a small group of people worshipping 139 years ago and has grown into an expansive and successful church, is truly an inspiring one of the dedication and perseverance of a faithful congregation of people who put all their love and trust in the Lord. Mr. Speaker, today I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the membership of the Greater Beallwood Baptist Church in Columbus, Georgia for their long history of coming together through good and difficult times to praise and worship our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

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 an outstanding public servant and civic leader of Georgia, Commissioner Jackson ``Jack'' Anderson Stone, Sr., longtime County Commissioner of District 6 in Dougherty County, Georgia. Sadly, Commissioner Stone passed away on Thursday, September 24, 2015. A funeral service was held on Saturday, September 26, 2015 at 11:00 am at Sunnyside Baptist Church in Albany, Georgia. A Georgia man through and through, Jackson Stone was born in Meigs, Georgia in 1941 to the late Grady and Neda West Stone. He proudly served our nation in the United States Army, serving one tour in Okinawa, Japan. When Jack returned to the United States, he built a career in the auto sales business and became Co-Owner and General Manager at Albany Lincoln Mercury. He subsequently founded his own businesses: Quick Auto Sales, Creekside Auto Sales and Creekside RV and Mobile Home Park. For Jack Stone, family and community took the utmost priority in his life. With this in mind, he sought to improve his community and serve his fellow citizens as District 6 County Commissioner in Dougherty County, Georgia. His leadership and work ethic were widely respected, resulting in his serving as County Commissioner for twenty-eight years. His long tenure makes it clear that Commissioner Stone was admired and loved by his constituents and countless others in Southwest Georgia. In addition to his civic duties, Commissioner Stone also served as a member of the Albany Chamber of Commerce and several other public service organizations in Albany and Dougherty County. In his spare time, Commissioner Stone and his family enjoyed RV camping. He also took great pleasure in managing his farm, tending his cows and riding around with his dog, B.J. Commissioner Stone has achieved much in his life but none of this would have been possible without the love and support of his wife of 52 years, Charlotte; his children, Jack, Blair, and Karen; his grandchildren, Ande, Lexie, Reverend Matthew, Taylor, Mark, Hannah, McKenzie, Shannon, and Josh; four great-grandchildren, Savanna, Lucus, Carson, and Brock; and a host of other family members and friends. Mr. Speaker, my wife Vivian and I, along with the more than 730,000 residents of the Second Congressional District of Georgia, salute Commissioner Stone for his exceptional public service and everlasting commitment to his community. I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join us in extending our deepest condolences to Commissioner Stone's family and friends during this difficult time. 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 the outstanding service of Mr. Tary L. Brown, who will be retiring after thirty years of serving as CEO of Albany Area Primary Health Care (AAPHC) in Southwest Georgia. A retirement celebration was held in Tary's honor on Saturday, September 26, 2015 at 6:00 p.m. at the Doublegate Country Club in Albany, Georgia. Tary began his professional career after the death of his grandmother. Upset with how the local health care system treated her, he chose to devote his life ``to making a difference and promoting healthcare as a Right.'' Tary subsequently received a Bachelor of Science degree from Illinois State University and a Master's degree in Health Administration from the University of Illinois. Upon graduation, he began working with community health centers (CHCs) in Oquawka, Illinois as both health department administrator and CHC director. Tary was then offered an opportunity to work in Georgia for two years initially. But Tary, as countless others before and after him, fell in love with the beautiful landscape and rich culture of our great state. For the next three decades, he worked tirelessly in Georgia to ensure that all citizens--no matter their race, income, or background--had access to quality health care. Under Tary's leadership, AAPHC performed over one million patient visits. The center trained medical students and residents and piloted primary care case management of HIV/AIDS, the largest rural program in the nation. Moreover, AAPHC was instrumental in responding to the medical needs of citizens during natural disasters. Tary oversaw AAPHC's growth from three sites and 34 employees to eight sites and 160 employees. I know that he will leave the AAPHC in good hands with incoming CEO, Shelley Spires. Tary has been recognized and commended for his leadership and service numerous times throughout his career. Some of his accolades include the 2010 Betsey K. Cook Advocacy MVP Award and the 2015 Spirit of Excellence Award, both from the National Association of Community Health Centers, and two Administrator of the Year Awards from the Georgia Association for Primary Health Care, Inc. His practice has been recognized as the Rural Practice of the Year in 2009 and was listed in the Top 25 Physician Group Practices by Atlanta Business Chronicle in 1997. Tary Brown has been a stalwart advocate for CHCs on the local, state, and national levels and has been a frequent visitor to my Congressional office both in Albany and Washington D.C. He also has been active in the community and previously served as President of Georgia Association for Primary Health Care, Inc. Tary has achieved much in his life, but none of this would have been possible without the love and support of his wife, Lyndea, their three children, and three grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring and recognizing Mr. Tary Brown for his outstanding leadership and his contributions to improving the quality of health care in Southwest Georgia. I wish Tary all the best for his retirement and I look forward to his continued friendship and wise counsel in the future.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a distinguished educator and the bulwark of South Georgia Technical College, President Gary Lamar ``Sparky'' Reeves. A retirement celebration in honor of President Reeves was held on Wednesday, September 23, 2015 at 6:00 p.m. at the John M. Pope Industrial Technology Center on the campus in Americus, Georgia. A native of Thomaston, Georgia, Mr. Reeves worked in the sales industry prior to his career at South Georgia Technical College. He arrived at the College in 1973 and worked in multiple capacities as an instructor, supervisor, and Vice President of Economic Development. While serving as an instructor, he taught accounting, business, and business psychology. His loyalty and performance spoke volumes, resulting in Mr. Reeves' ultimately being appointed to serve as President of South Georgia Technical College in 2004. Under his leadership, the college has expanded to offer more than 150 associate degrees and increased enrollment exponentially, reaching the high mark of 4,000 students by 2011. His ambitions extended beyond improving the academic credentials of the school. Accordingly, President Reeves strove to improve the facilities on campus as well, renovating the tennis courts, gymnasium, and the Diesel Technology and Automotive Transportation buildings. He also oversaw the planting of more than 500 stately live oak trees in order to beautify the campus. Combining his educational background with his acute business savvy, President Reeves has cultivated business partnerships with industrial titans, including Georgia Power, John Deere, and Kauffman Tire. All this was done with an eye toward providing students with prime opportunities to delve into the corporate world. He has also played a vital role in arranging scholarships for students by partnering with other colleges such as Georgia Southwestern State University in Americus, Georgia to form a scholarship foundation. President Reeves has been recognized and commended time and time again for his service to his community. He was named as ``Boy Scout Distinguished Leader of the Year'' and ``Americus and Sumter County Volunteer of the Year,'' among many other accolades. In addition, President Reeves will be the first sitting technical college president to be granted the distinction of ``President Emeritus.'' Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing an esteemed educator and principled leader, President Gary Lamar ``Sparky'' Reeves. While many will lament President Reeves' retirement, it should be noted, however, that his long service to the College merits a much-deserved rest. Thanks to his tireless leadership, and high expectations for his beloved College, President Sparky Reeves will leave an unparalleled legacy at South Georgia Technical College from which countless generations will benefit. May God continue to bless Sparky Reeves and his family as he transitions to the next chapter of his remarkable life.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an outstanding Man of God who has provided sage counsel, wisdom, and guidance throughout Georgia, the United States of America, and the world, Bishop Preston W. Williams II. Bishop Williams is the Presiding Prelate of the Sixth Episcopal District, which spans the state of Georgia. After his term concludes in 2016, Bishop Williams will be retiring. A celebration will be held in his honor on Saturday, September 19, 2015 at Allen Temple African Methodist Episcopal Church in Byron, Georgia. Bishop Preston W. Williams II was born in Willacoochee, Georgia and has worked tirelessly to spread the Word of God in the state throughout his life. He pastored several A.M.E. churches in Georgia, leaving a lasting mark on each through increased membership, improved worship facilities, and impactful community outreach. He also served as the Treasurer of the Sixth Episcopal District and Director of Communication in radio and television for the A.M.E. Church, where he was responsible for coordinating media outreach to more than 100,000 Georgians. He served as a member of the General Assembly of the World Council of Churches and was selected as the State of Georgia Distinguished Churchman. From 2000 to 2004, Bishop Williams served as the Presiding Prelate of the Seventeenth Episcopal District, located in Central Africa. Under his leadership, the membership of the Seventeenth District expanded exponentially, necessitating that the district be split into two separate parts and leading to the formation of a new Twentieth Episcopal District. In fact, this trend of increasing membership would continue throughout the Bishop's distinguished career, with thousands of people inspired to give their lives to Christ by this charismatic leader's everlasting love and enthusiasm for God. From 2004 to 2012, Bishop Williams served the Seventh Episcopal District, which consists of the state of South Carolina. There, Bishop Williams advocated for the implementation of Christian education by founding Youth Adult ministries, expanding the curriculum at Allen University, establishing scholarship funds for clergy members to pursue their Master of Divinity degrees, and increasing opportunities for seminary-level training. Moreover, Bishop Williams served the community at large by creating after-school programs dedicated to improving the lives of at-risk teens, among many other worthy contributions. Known to many, respected by all, he left an indelible mark on the Seventh Episcopal District. In 2012, Georgia rejoiced at the return of Bishop Williams when he was appointed to lead the Sixth Episcopal District of the A.M.E. Church. From 2012 to 2016, Bishop Williams will continue to govern the 543 A.M.E. churches in the state of Georgia. He will also serve as Chairman on the Board of Turner Theological Seminary and Morris Brown College, both located in Atlanta, Georgia. Bishop Williams has accomplished much for the Kingdom of Christ throughout his life, but none of this would be possible without the grace of God and the love and support of his wife, Wilma, and his children, Arnold Andre, Wilma Priscilla, Stella Jacinta, and Prestina Delores. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing Bishop Preston W. Williams II for his numerous invaluable contributions to Georgia, the United States of America, and the world. Bishop Williams has made a tremendous impact on communities across the globe. Even in his forthcoming retirement, I am confident that Bishop Williams will remain an esteemed and active member of the community, as his limitless enthusiasm and diligent work ethic knows no bounds.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, after careful review of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), analysis by experts pro and con, consultation with advocates from AIPAC, and prayerful consideration, I have concluded that the JCPOA is a strong, verifiable agreement which, if implemented, provides the best available option, short of military action, to prevent Iran from securing a nuclear weapon. Israel is our nation's closest friend in the Middle East and one of our nation's key allies. Our relationship is based on shared democratic values, mutual respect, and our Judeo-Christian heritage. I have witnessed first-hand Israel's remarkable culture, innovation, entrepreneurship, and patriotism, especially when I traveled to the Holy Land. Drawing from my experience as a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, and the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction and Veterans' Affairs, I have an acute appreciation for the tremendous security challenges Israel and its people face as the nation seeks to survive and thrive in a very hostile neighborhood. Consequently, I have always supported funding for Israel's missile defense programs; a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through direct and bilateral talks; and efforts such as the United States-Israel Strategic Partnership Act of 2013 to promote closer military, scientific, and economic ties between our two countries. Moreover, I have consistently supported international sanctions against Iran, not merely to inflict economic hardships on the government and people of Iran because of their anti-American, anti- Israeli, and anti-Semitic conduct, but to ultimately bring Iran to the negotiating table to deter its nuclear weapons program, which poses a real and grave threat to Israel, the United States, and the entire world. Because the threat of Iran acquiring a nuclear weapon is so ominous, our country was able to persuade a multitude of nations to join us, albeit reluctantly, in imposing these severe sanctions which have effectively brought Iran to the negotiation table regarding its nuclear weapons program. On July 14, 2015, negotiators from Iran, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Russia, and China, along with the European Union, announced completion of a comprehensive nuclear agreement with Iran--the JCPOA. The JCPOA requires that the full extent of the Iran nuclear program will be under constant surveillance--24 hours a day, 7 days a week--by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for at least 15 years, which is the strongest nuclear non-proliferation monitoring agency anywhere in the world. Even after 15 years, Iran will be permanently obligated to follow all international Nuclear Non-Proliferation treaty requirements. Monitoring of the most sensitive parts of Iran's nuclear program will continue indefinitely. The JCPOA affirms that under no circumstance will Iran ever seek, develop, or acquire any nuclear weapons. It also places severe restrictions on Iran's uranium enrichment facilities, dismantles its plutonium production capabilities, and provides the IAEA access to all known and potential covert sites. If Iran complies with the JCPOA, international sanctions will be lifted and Iranian funds frozen in foreign banks will be released. However, if Iran violates the agreement, sanctions will snap back into place and all options--including the use of military force--will remain available to the United States, Israel, and our allies to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. These options will only be strengthened by the intelligence gathered from the IAEA monitoring and inspections, as well as by the vast array of U.S. intelligence assets across the region and the world. The JCPOA is not perfect. Neither side got everything they wanted. And a skeptical international community has deep concerns about Iran's long and nefarious record of human rights violations, financing of terrorism, hostility to Israel and the United States, as well as its destabilizing role throughout the Middle East. Many Americans, Israelis, and other allies have serious doubts as to whether Iran will actually comply with the terms of the JCPOA, and believe Iran cannot be trusted. I share these concerns. But the JCPOA is not based on trust but on verification through constant monitoring. While intense inspections by the IAEA under the agreement are not sufficient to satisfy some critics, over 70 nuclear non-proliferation experts such as former Senators Sam Nunn and Richard Lugar; Generals Brent Scrowcroft and Colin Powell; 29 top U.S. scientists; 440 Rabbis; more than 60 former Israeli Security Officials; over 50 Christian leaders; and more than 100 former U.S. Ambassadors have endorsed the agreement publicly. The United Nations Security Council voted unanimously to support the JCPOA as well. From a practical perspective, it makes little sense for the United States to walk away from the JCPOA given the broad diplomatic consensus and lack of reasonable alternatives to rolling back Iran's nuclear program. Our negotiating partners, who had reluctantly agreed to sanctions in the first place, have said in no uncertain terms that a better deal with Iran under current circumstances cannot be found. In fact, if the U.S. were to now reject the agreement, the broad international support currently in favor of sanctions would disappear, the guarantee of nuclear inspections would vanish, and our nation's diplomatic stature in the world would be greatly diminished. To be sure, it is vital that the JCPOA be backed by a strong commitment to ensuring that Iran remains in full compliance or face overwhelming military force. Current intelligence confirms that Iran is within months of developing nuclear weapons capability. Under no circumstances should Iran ever be allowed to pursue a nuclear weapon. Yet, before military action is pursued, I firmly believe that our nation must, as it has through the JCPOA, exhaust all of its diplomatic options and give peace a chance. In His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus Christ said: ``Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.'' Waging peace is hard and requires far more than trust and good intentions. It requires verification and transparency, which this agreement more than provides. For these reasons, I will support the JCPOA and oppose the passage of any legislation disapproving of the agreement transmitted to Congress by the President relating to the nuclear program of Iran.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an outstanding public servant, champion of education, man of God, and loving husband, father, grandfather and friend, Mr. Commodore Conyers. Mr. Conyers departed this life on Monday, August 17, 2015. A funeral service was held on Saturday, August 22, 2015 at 3:00 p.m. at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Albany, Georgia. Commodore Conyers was born in Thomasville, Georgia and graduated from Douglas High School in 1949. He then continued his education at Savannah State College, now University, and graduated in 1958 with a bachelor degree in Industrial Education. His early passion for education motivated him to excel in his studies as he progressed to earn a master's degree from Valdosta State College, now University, and an L-6 degree in Administration and Supervision from Albany State College, also now University. Yet, it was Mr. Conyers' services to his alma mater, Savannah State College, which remained near and dear to his heart for decades. He served as President of the Greater Albany Alumni Chapter of Savannah State and was selected as the Grand Marshal of the 2014 Homecoming Parade. He recently was chosen as the latest inductee into the Savannah State University Foundation Hall of Fame. This prestigious honor will allow his legacy to live on for years to come. Mr. Conyers' scholastic repertoire, cultivated by his devotion to service and leadership, continued to flourish, as his achievements earned him numerous recognitions and commendations within the educational arena. In 1965, he was named by the State Director of Vocational Education to serve with vocational educators and students from five high schools across Georgia. In this role, he is credited with the major accomplishment of combining two of the state's youth organizations into one. After the successful merger, he was appointed State President of the Georgia American Vocational Association where he also helped merge the two state associations into one, before serving as Treasurer of the merged organization. In 1983, Mr. Conyers was appointed by the late Georgia Governor George Busbee to serve on a Task Force to study the need for a third state board to oversee vocational education in Georgia. The Task Force indeed recommended a third board, which is in place today. Mr. Conyers also served numerous state and community boards and organizations, including the Board of Directors of the Georgia Teachers and Education Association, the Georgia Association of Educators, and the Georgia Retired Educators Association. He also served as Chairman and Board member of the Dougherty County Board of Elections and on the Water, Gas, and Light Board of Directors, as well as the Board of Directors for the Albany Civil Rights Institute. Mr. Speaker, one of the many things that I will always remember and respect about Commodore Conyers is his unwavering passion for education, which made him a trailblazer in his community. During his tenure as the first black Principal of Dougherty Comprehensive High School in Albany, Georgia, a position he held for eleven years, Mr. Conyers was named First Runner-up for State of Georgia Principal of the Year and was also named the State of Georgia Administrator of the Year by the Georgia Association of Educators. In 1997, he again broke barriers when he was named Director of Vocational and Technical Education for the Dougherty County School System, the first African American to serve in this role. Moreover, he started the first Boy Scout Troop for African-American youth in Vienna, Georgia and the first Cub Scout and Boy Scout Troops at Shiloh Baptist Church in Albany, Georgia. In addition to the love and support of his late wife, Anne; their two children, Derrick, and Devetrice; and two grandchildren, Derrick and Ashley, Mr. Conyers relied on our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to guide him throughout his life. A member of Shiloh Baptist Church since 1961, he served as Superintendent of the Sunday School, Deacon and a Trustee, Chairman of the Facilities Committee, and numerous other positions. Mr. Speaker, my wife Vivian and I, along with the more than 730,000 people of Georgia's Second Congressional District salute Mr. Commodore Conyers for his leadership in education and service to his community. I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join us in extending our deepest sympathies to Mr. Conyers' family, friends and loved ones during this difficult time. 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, it is with a heavy heart and solemn remembrance that I rise today to pay tribute to a respected public servant and outstanding citizen, Colonel Charles Edward Cooke. Sadly, Colonel Cooke passed away on Sunday, August 2, 2015. Funeral services were held on Monday, August 10, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. at Andersonville National Cemetery in Andersonville, Georgia. Colonel Cooke devoted nearly three decades of his life to protecting his country in the United States Marine Corps, an unwavering responsibility for which we are all greatly indebted. In his 31 years of duty, he was stationed in nine states and eleven countries. Though his responsibilities carried him across the globe, Colonel Cooke always enjoyed returning to his birthplace of Plains, Georgia and hometown of Americus, Georgia. Throughout his career, Colonel Cooke impacted the lives of thousands of young service men and women who served under him. For his outstanding leadership he was awarded the Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal with Gold Star, and the Navy/Marine Corps Achievement Medal. Beyond these achievements and the respect held for him by Marines everywhere, he was an honorable human being who loved deeply and, in return, was deeply loved. Following his retirement from the Marine Corps in 2004, Colonel Cooke worked for Northrup Grumman as an Information Assurance Specialist. His co-workers and fellow servicemen cherished the smile and booming laugh of a man with seasoned wisdom and a passion for reveling in the beauties of life. After 7 years, he retired to full-time community service with organizations such as the Semper Fi Community Task Force and Meals on Wheels. Colonel Cooke was a resolute steward of Christ's message. His faith and spirituality always reminded those around him of the power of love and fellowship through Christ and his Church. He earned a Certificate of Biblical Studies from the Union Chapel Missionary Baptist Church Institute of Biblical Studies and served as deacon of First Mount Zion Baptist Church in Dumfries, Virginia for four years. Colonel Cooke is survived by his wife of 44 years, Wilma; daughter, Mary; siblings Oscar, Josie, Lula May, Carrie, and Barbara; six grandchildren; and a host of other family members and friends. Mr. Speaker, my wife Vivian and I, along with the more than 730,000 people of the Second Congressional District salute Colonel Charles Cooke for his dedicated service to our nation and to his community. I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join us in extending our deepest sympathies to Colonel Cooke's family, friends and loved ones during this difficult time. 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. Madam Speaker, I want to commend the gentleman and all of my colleagues for coming tonight in support of law enforcement. The Good Book tells us that greater love hath no man but that he lay down his life for his friends. That is what our law enforcement, our first responders, our public safety personnel do for us each and every day, 24/7, all across this country. For that, we are so grateful. They are Black; they are White; they are young; they are seasoned; they are male, and they are female. In my community in Columbus, Georgia, we have had all of them to give their last full measure of devotion in defense of our communities, to keep us safe at night, so I commend my colleagues for that. I thank my colleague so much for allowing me to invade this Special Order to give a special tribute to one of my constituents who passed away during our break. It is with a heavy heart, Madam Speaker, and in solemn remembrance that I rise today to pay tribute to a respected community leader, an outstanding citizen, Michael Byron Tabb, Sr. Sadly, Mike passed away on Monday, August 17, 2015, and funeral services were held Saturday, August 22, at 11 a.m. at the Milford Baptist Church in Leary, Georgia. Mike Tabb was born in Albany, Georgia, and graduated from Baker County High School. He earned a bachelor's degree in secondary education and minored in biology at Valdosta State College, now Valdosta State University. He was a teacher and a coach from 1967 until 1974 and a farmer from 1974 to 1986. He then served as the managing editor for the Camilla Enterprise from 1987 until 1993 and wrote the column ``Plantation Pete.'' From 1993 to 2012, Mike worked at the Camilla Housing Authority as grant and public relations coordinator and program coordinator. Following his retirement, he continued to work part time with Community Ventures, a nonprofit corporation that serves the community in various ways, including building homes. He was instrumental in obtaining grants totaling nearly $15 million and contracts with the department of human resources to match welfare clients with employment opportunities. He helped organize youth development activities in 20 counties and acquired funding to construct housing for low-to-moderate-income citizens. He was widely known by everybody as a driving force in the community. He served as chairman of the Baker Commission, chairman of the Mitchell County Children and Youth Collaborative, chairman of the board of directors of the Mitchell-Baker Association for Retarded Citizens, chairman of the Baker County Historical Society, and chairman of the Advisory Committee for South Georgia Judicial Circuit Indigent Defense Program. He was also a member of the Mitchell County Children and Youth Family Connection Corporate Board, Baker County Family Connection, Mitchell County Hospital Authority, and the Southwest Georgia Workforce Investment Board. He was instrumental in forming the first volunteer Baker County EMS and was an avid historian, playing a critical role in the publishing of the Baker County history book and cemetery book. He was a resolute steward of Christ's message, and he taught Sunday school for over 35 years at Milford Baptist Church. His faith and spirituality always reminded those around him of the power of love and fellowship through Christ and the church. Mike has accomplished much in his life, but none of it would have been possible without the love and support of his wife, Karin; his children; grandchildren; and great-grandchildren. Madam Speaker, my wife, Vivian, and I, along with the more than 730,000 people of the Second Congressional District, salute Mike Byron Tabb for his dedicated service to his community. I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join us in extending our deepest sympathies to Mike's family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time. We pray that they will be consoled and comforted by an abiding faith and the Holy Spirit in the days, weeks, and months ahead. I thank my colleague for yielding to me. It was very special. I, again, commend him for standing up and expressing our appreciation for America's law enforcement, the men and women who protect us day in and day out.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an outstanding Man of God who has been a longstanding source of inspiration, spiritual guidance, and moral leadership to the people of Southwest Georgia, the Reverend Willie L. Hill. Reverend Hill is retiring after 28 years of pastoring the Greater Beallwood Baptist Church in Columbus, Georgia. The congregation will be honoring Rev. Hill for his leadership at a retirement dinner on Saturday, August 15, 2015 at 6:00 p.m. at the Columbus Country Club and at a retirement program on Sunday, August 16, 2015 during the 11:00 a.m. service at the church. A native of Columbus, Georgia, Willie L. Hill was born to the late Hollis and Dora Hill. He was educated in the public school system of Muscogee County. Reverend Hill then served our nation honorably in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. After completing his service, he attended Chattahoochee Valley Community College in Phenix City, Alabama, where he earned an associate's degree, and later attended Troy University to complete a bachelor's degree in Criminology. It was then that Rev. Hill heard God's call to preach and enrolled in the American Baptist College to study theology. Rev. Hill pastored the Greater Beallwood Baptist Church for 28 years, faithfully carrying out his vision for the church and leading its members in the fulfillment of a God-first life. In the years after Rev. Hill became pastor, Greater Beallwood expanded greatly, growing from a century-old church that was facing financial hardship to a spiritual praising center serving almost 350 people weekly. Not only did Rev. Hill's leadership grow the congregation in number and in spirit, but it also was instrumental in the building of a new sanctuary that would accommodate the numerous church services and meetings. A strong advocate of access to Christian education, Rev. Hill founded Children's Church, a separate training and worship service for children ages 5 through 12 to grow in their faith. Children's Church serves as a valuable resource for members of the Greater Beallwood Baptist Church and has helped children learn about the word of God in a way that they can relate to and understand. Throughout his pastoral career, always seeking to improve the craft of Christian ministry and discipleship, Rev. Hill has served as President of the Inter-Denominational Ministerial Alliance for eight years and Vice President for four years. He served as President of the Fourth District Congress of Christian Education for two years, and he also co-founded the Columbus Ministerial Association. An avid golfer and fierce competitor, Rev. Hill served on the Golf Authority of the Columbus Consolidated Government for ten years. Jeremiah 3:15 says, ``Then I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and understanding.'' Reverend Willie Hill is one such shepherd and a man of integrity who exudes the genuine principles and values of Christian discipleship. A charismatic evangelical leader and pioneer, his spiritual zeal is both infectious and highly contagious. Rev. Hill is surrounded by the love and support of his congregation, but also his family--his wife of 52 years, Helen; their two sons, Daren and Brandon; and three beloved grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me, my wife Vivian, and the more than 730,000 residents of Georgia's Second Congressional District in thanking the Reverend Willie L. Hill for his service to our nation, the Columbus community, the Greater Beallwood Baptist Church, and the Kingdom of God.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor and pleasure to extend my sincere congratulations to the congregation of First African Baptist Church in Columbus, Georgia as the church's membership and leadership celebrate a remarkable 175 years. The congregation of First African Baptist Church will celebrate this very significant anniversary with a Jubilee Celebration on Sunday, August 9, 2015 at the church in Columbus, Georgia. Tracing its roots back to the antebellum South, African Baptist Church was founded by slaves in 1840 in a building on the corner of Third Avenue and Twelfth Street in Columbus, only blocks away from the Chattahoochee River. This building was the sanctuary formerly used by First Baptist Church, which was established in 1829 as the first church in Columbus. Though founded by slaves, First African Baptist Church was pastored by white ministers during its first twenty-two years. Possessing a spirit of love and acceptance for all of humankind regardless of skin color that was unique in this time period and in this society, the members of the church opened its doors to all in Columbus who felt the call to worship. By 1858, 731 professed believers had been baptized by the church--390 white and 341 black. From its inception through 1915, the church relocated three times to accommodate its congregation that swelled with the development of the City of Columbus. The second location was a frame building located at the corner of St. Clair and Front Street, now known as Eleventh and Front. In 1881, the Georgia General Assembly gave the land site located at Eleventh Street and Sixth Avenue to the church, and it was renamed the Six Avenue Baptist Church. This site is now occupied by Golden Foundry and Machine Company. The current location is on the corner of Fifth Avenue and Ninth Street, where the church was renamed the First African Baptist Church in 1915. Along with the 175th anniversary of the church's existence, today I celebrate with the congregation of First African Baptist the centennial of the church's current location. Throughout the years, the church would be remodeled and renovated several times. With these aesthetic changes came changes to the church mission. Today, under the leadership of Reverend Roderick B. Green, the church continues to grow and change with the vision of holistic transformation and continual improvement in Christ. The story of First African Baptist Church, which began as a small group of people worshipping 175 years ago and has grown into an expansive and successful church, is truly an inspiring one of the dedication and perseverance of a faithful congregation of people who put all their love and trust in the Lord. Mr. Speaker, today I ask my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to First African Baptist Church in Columbus, Georgia for their long history of coming together through the good and difficult times to praise and worship our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.