Buddy Carter

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize downtown Brunswick, Georgia, on being named the downtown of the year by the Georgia Downtown Association. This grand achievement was presented at the GDA annual conference in Rome. The award celebrates communities that demonstrate outstanding achievement in planning, historic preservation, economic development, placemaking, organization, and community engagement. Over the past two decades, downtown Brunswick has transformed into one of Georgia's premier downtown destinations by restoring historic buildings, opening thriving businesses, and welcoming more than 1.3 million visitors annually. Brunswick exemplifies the very best of downtown revitalization, having created a downtown atmosphere that is economically resilient, culturally vibrant, and positioned for future success. Its achievements serve as an inspiration for communities across Georgia. It is a great honor to represent the city of Brunswick, Georgia, and I could not be more proud of the economic growth we have had in this part of the district.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Georgia's fine hospitals and healthcare facilities, five of which have been named by US News as some of America's top hospitals. I would like to congratulate the following hospitals: Emory University, Piedmont Atlanta, Emory St. Joseph's, Emory University Hospital Midtown, and Northside Hospital Cherokee. These hospitals have shown remarkable care and service to patients. They have been recognized for outstanding treatment in a wide variety of categories. Of the over 100 hospitals in the State of Georgia, these hospitals have stood out as an example. These five hospitals demonstrate great pride in their work and set a standard for the rest of the nation to look up to and admire. The care, research, and lifesaving techniques developed at these institutions will continue to reap benefits for all Georgians in the years to come.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the great economic impact of Georgia ports. Georgia Ports' economic impact grew by 4 percent in 2025, an increase of $7 billion compared to the previous year. The ports now generate $181 billion in total annual sales and support over 605,000 full-time and part-time jobs across the State of Georgia. Port-related activity accounts for 12 percent of Georgia's total economic output, meaning nearly one in every eight jobs in Georgia is tied to our ports. Between 2021 and 2025, employment supported by port activity grew by more than 44,500 jobs, yielding 44 billion in income for Georgia workers. The Georgia Ports Authority continues to invest in the future through a $5 billion infrastructure plan, including new berths at the port of Savannah and in Brunswick. These ports remain a vital engine of opportunity for the entire First District and our State.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Leopold's Ice Cream and congratulate them on their 107th birthday. Leopold's Ice Cream was founded in Savannah, Georgia, in 1919 to three Greek immigrant brothers. The famous local ice cream spot threw quite the birthday party, consisting of $2 ice cream scoops, live music, face painting, and a special presentation of a restored World War I 48-star American flag belonging to the owner Stratton Leopold's family. Whether it is a hot August day or a cold February evening, you can always expect Leopold's to have the longest line in town. The incredible ice cream is not only a favorite to its residents, but a must-have to the millions of tourists that visit the city evey year. As part of a long standing tradition, childrern 12 and under who recite the Pledge of Allegience, receive a free child's scoop of ice cream. I thank Leopold's for always having the best ice cream around, especially on the hot summer days when we need it most.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Judge Veronica H. Cope and Judge Kathrine M. Armstrong and would like to congratulate them on their appointment to serve on the Gwinnett Judicial Circuit Superior Court. Governor Kemp recently selected these two women for these important and admirable positions. Both judges have esteemed legal careers and have shown a dedication to justice through their service to their communities. Judge Cope has promoted social justice for Georgians throughout her career and has fought for fairness and equality for all Georgians. Judge Armstrong is a lifelong citizen of Gwinnett County and has led a life serving her friends, neighbors, and community from the very beginning. I have no doubt that both of these judges will serve with dedication and shall hold the utmost respect for their office and their communities.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize The Living Vine, a Savannah maternity home celebrating its 30th anniversary this September. Since opening its doors in 1996, the nonprofit maternity home has provided pregnant women and their babies with a safe residential environment, life skills preparation, and spiritual support aimed at helping mothers build stability and work toward independence. This organization is one of Savannah's crown jewels and stands as a testament to the heart and care of the Savannah community. Countless mothers and their babies have passed through the doors of this organization, and are much better for having done so. The work that The Living Vine does is crucial and often overlooked by many. I would like to join the countless babies and mothers helped by The Living Vine in saying thank you for their work, and please do not stop any time soon.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize St. Marys, Georgia, for being named the prettiest town in Georgia by Architectural Digest. St. Marys, a great representation of Georgia in this contest, is in the most southeastern corner of the State. The town is proudly known for serving as the gateway city to Cumberland Island, Georgia's largest barrier island and home to famous architecture consisting of the Dungeness Ruins and the Greyfield Inn mansion. St. Marys is recognized for its beautiful downtown oak-lined streets draped in Spanish moss, 19th century churches, and grand historic homes showcasing classic southern design. Some of the notable architecture in the community consist of Orange Hall, an 1830 Greek Revival Mansion and the first Presbyterian Church, which houses a bell cast by Paul Revere's foundry. It is a great honor to represent the town of St. Marys, and I could not be prouder of the rich history this place holds.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Lambda Mu Chapter of Sigma Chi Fraternity at Valdosta State University, as it celebrates its 15th anniversary. Founded on October 11, 2011, Lambda Mu has spent the past 15 years building a tradition of friendship, leadership, service, and scholarship. Over the years, the chapter has raised tens of thousands of dollars for the Huntsman Cancer Foundation through Derby Days, provided food to Second Harvest Food Bank, and invested in student life at Valdosta State University. These efforts embody the founding principles of Sigma Chi: ``friendship, justice, and learning.'' The chapter has also received numerous honors and recognition over the years, including recognition from fellow Sigma Chi and former Senator Saxby Chambliss when the chapter was founded. I congratulate the brothers, alumni, and friends of Lambda Mu on 15 years of excellence, brotherhood, and service. In Hoc--and Go Blazers.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 301.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 979, the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act. In coastal Georgia that I have the honor and privilege of representing, we know how important reliable information is when a hurricane threatens our communities. Families need access to emergency alerts, evacuation updates, and local broadcasters who understand what is happening on the ground. AM radio provides a free connection to that information without requiring a cellular signal or an internet subscription. This bipartisan legislation would require AM radio as standard equipment in new passenger vehicles, with no separate charge to drivers. Preserving that access supports public safety, and it keeps our communities connected to local news, to weather, and programming. Madam Speaker, I thank Congressman Bilirakis for his leadership, and I urge my colleagues to support this commonsense legislation.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 296, and YEA on Roll Call No. 297.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and the memory of Philip Sampson, a lifelong resident of Young Harris, Georgia, a graduate of the Young Harris College, and a member of Epsilon Delta Sigma. Philip was a devoted husband to his wife, Teresa, and a loving father to his daughter, Brittany. His family was the center of his life, and he was most happy when he was around them. Philip attended Towns County High School before graduating from Young Harris College, where he was a member, as I said, of Epsilon Delta Sigma Fraternity. To his college friends, including myself, he was mostly known as Cotton, a nickname inspired by the blonde head of hair that he had. Philip was a builder by nature. He loved working with his hands and spending time outdoors. He was also an avid hunter who treasured the time spent on his farm, a piece of property that he loved dearly. Philip spent a large amount of time filming videos for Xtreme Christian Outdoors, which brings together hunting, the outdoors, and God. May we remember Philip, our brother, for the tremendous life that he lived.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and the sacrifice of Derrick Moore, who died rescuing a young girl from a rip current in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. On a late Friday evening, Mr. Moore, who was just 47, saw the young girl struggling in the ocean and immediately rushed into the water to help her. He successfully pulled the child from the rip current and brought her to safety, but was then pulled under water himself. First responders from the Myrtle Beach Police Department and Myrtle Beach Fire Department launched an intensive search that extended into Saturday morning. Unfortunately, ocean currents washed Moore's body ashore the next morning where officials later recovered him. Mr. Speaker, I am honoring Derrick for his courageous and selfless acts, and our thoughts and prayers are with him and with his family. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jackson Brooks for his outstanding athletic accomplishments, which led to his selection to represent Georgia in this year's Patriot Games. The Patriot Games is an event that brings high school athletes from across the United States, American territories, and Tribal nations in challenges meant to test strength, endurance, agility, and teamwork with games such as dodgeball, tug-of-war, track and field, and kickball. The 17-year-old is a Nike Outdoor Nationals All-American decathlete who finished the year as the number 2 ranked rising junior. Back when Jackson was in middle school, he set an 800-meter State record and was also a part of the GHSA class 5A State championship 4x800 relay team this spring. On top of being a decathlete, Jackson is a very valuable part of the Clarke Central football team where he is a standout wide receiver. Mr. Speaker, I am proud of Jackson--and I know his parents are as well--for representing us in the great State of Georgia. Honoring the Life of Derrick Moore

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Judge Andy Prather, the longest serving State court judge in Georgia, who announced his upcoming retirement. The Muscogee County State court judge has notified Governor Brian Kemp that he will be retiring from the bench on November 30. This comes 3 months after he won an election to another 4-year term. Prather is 73 and has been a State court judge since January of 1994, when he was appointed by Governor Zell Miller. Prior to that appointment, he was the Muscogee County solicitor general, the State court's lead prosecutor. He says that serving Muscogee County for 46 years has been one of the greatest privileges of his life and he looks forward to assisting incoming Chief Judge Pete Temesgen as he takes on the task of welcoming and training two new judges. Recognizing Jackson Brooks

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor John ``Jack'' Welsh, a World War II combat veteran and soon to be centenarian. In fact, on September 4, he will be 100. Upon graduating high school on the same day as D-day in June 1944, Jack asked his parents if he could enlist. He served in the Philippines during General MacArthur's campaign, carrying a Browning Automatic Rifle and later served in the occupation force in Japan. He was awarded the Asiatic-Pacific Theater Campaign Ribbon with two Bronze Stars, the Philippine Liberation Ribbon, and the Army of Occupation Medal, among other honors. After his service, Jack earned two degrees from Duke University's Forestry School and spent 35 years with the U.S. Forest Service. He and his wife, Mary Ann, were married 62 years and raised four sons together. Jack is the proud grandfather of 8 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. His service of lifelong dedication to family and community reflects his great character and service. Mr. Speaker, I thank him for his service and wish him a happy 100th birthday. Recognizing Judge Andy Prather

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Goshen United Methodist Church in Rincon, Georgia, as its congregation celebrates an incredible 275 years of faith, fellowship, and service. Dating back to around 1751, Goshen Church has witnessed generations of Georgia history, first serving congregations along Abercorn Creek near the Savannah River. Around 1790, the church itself was remarkably cut into two sections and moved to its present location using logs, horses, and mules. In 1820, the Methodist Church was organized at Goshen, beginning more than two centuries of Methodist ministry that continues today. Through changing times and a growing community, Goshen has remained rooted in its mission to love God, love others, and serve both. Today, under the leadership of the Reverend Chance Ward, Goshen continues building on that extraordinary legacy by sharing the way of Jesus and serving as a light to the community. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the entire Goshen United Methodist Church family on 275 years of ministry and pray its legacy of faith and service continues for generations to come. Honoring John ``Jack'' Welsh

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Melissa ``Sissy'' Blanchard, a Brunswick native, Georgia Tech alumna, and accomplished entrepreneur whose career exemplifies determination, resilience, and service to others. After graduating from Georgia Tech in 1995, Sissy turned her entrepreneurial spirit into a remarkable career spanning retail, hospitality, and small business ownership. From building a handbag and accessories brand carried by hundreds of boutiques nationwide to operating a successful wine bar and restaurant in California, Sissy has never been afraid to pursue a new opportunity. Eventually Sissy and her husband, Bob, returned home to coastal Georgia where they built Porch+Patio into a leading outdoor furniture retailer with multiple locations. Throughout her journey, Sissy has overcome challenges, embraced reinvention, and remained committed to strengthening the communities around her. Now, she is giving back through the Melissa J. Blanchard MBA Fellowship Endowment Fund at Georgia Tech, helping future students pursue their own dreams. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize Sissy for her entrepreneurial success and her commitment to creating opportunities for the next generation. Recognizing Goshen United Methodist Church

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Billy Joe Nelson. District Attorney Nelson has dedicated more than a decade serving the Atlantic Judicial Circuit, where he first served as an assistant district attorney in 2011 and was then elected to district attorney in 2022. In 2017, Governor Nathan Deal appointed Nelson to serve as a part- time solicitor general for the State court of Long County. Prior to that, he began his legal career in 2009 as a law clerk for the Superior Court judges in the Brunswick Judicial Circuit. Nelson is a native of McIntosh County and attended the University of Georgia where he earned a bachelor of business administration in real estate, graduating cum laude. He then attended the Walter F. George School of Law at Mercer University. He and his wife, Kathryn, have three children and reside in Liberty County. Recognizing Melissa ``Sissy'' Blanchard

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Charles ``Brad'' Dixon on his appointment by Governor Brian Kemp to the Atlantic Judicial Circuit Superior Court. Dixon is a partner in the law firm of Dixon and Lasseter, Attorneys at Law, P.C., in Richmond Hill. His practices have included domestic relations, criminal defense, probate, estate planning, real estate, and civil litigation matters. Before entering private practice, Dixon served for 8 years on Active Duty in the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General's Corps, ultimately attaining the rank of major. He has served as a general crimes prosecutor, special victims prosecutor, and trial and defense attorney as well as being a trainer for military prosecutors worldwide. Dixon earned a bachelor of arts in communication studies from West Virginia University in 2006, and his Juris Doctor from West Virginia College of Law in 2009. Dixon and his wife, Ivona, reside in Richmond Hill with their two sons, Charlie and Vance. Recognizing Billy Joe Nelson

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Judge Timothy Walmsley on his resignation from the Chatham County Superior Court bench. Judge Walmsley was appointed to the Eastern Judicial Circuit in 2012 by Governor Nathan Deal and was re-elected by the people of Chatham County in 2014, 2018, 2022, and 2026. Before joining the bench, he practiced commercial and real estate litigation in Savannah and served as a part-time magistrate judge. Judge Walmsley presided over the 2021 trial in the murder of Ahmaud Arbery, guiding the courtroom through one of the most closely watched cases in our State's history. With over 14 years on the bench, he handled thousands of cases with fairness and integrity. As he transitions to his next stage in life, Judge Walmsley remains committed to the continued success of the judicial system in Georgia. Mr. Speaker, the First District of Georgia is grateful for Judge Walmsley's years of dedicated public service. Recognizing Charles ``Brad'' Dixon

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of my good friend, Richard ``Dick'' Estus of Savannah, Georgia, who passed away on August 1 at the age of 92. Dick built a decades-long career in outdoor advertising, eventually founding Estus Outdoor in Savannah in 1971 after a 63-year career in the industry. He served as president of the Outdoor Advertising Association of America and later chaired the Savannah Economic Development Authority, helping bring Home Depot's distribution operations to our region. He was the founding chairman of the First City Club, built from its first day to welcome everyone. Dick was inducted into the Tourism Hall of Fame and received the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce Oglethorpe Leadership Award. He also led the United Way of Savannah and served on the board of Savannah Technical College. Dick Estus spent his life building up Savannah's economy and civic institutions, and the First District of Georgia is a better place because of him. Honoring Judge Timothy Walmsley

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Heather Teilhet on being selected as the next president and CEO of Georgia Electric Membership Corporation. Heather brings nearly two decades of electric utility leadership experience and 28 years of experience in government affairs and communications. She previously served Georgia EMC from 2009 to 2017 in advocacy and government relations roles and most recently served as executive vice president of external affairs at Oglethorpe Power Corporation, one of the largest generation cooperatives in the U.S. Earlier in Heather's career, she served as director of communications and press secretary for Governor Sonny Perdue during portions of his first and second terms in office. I am confident Heather's experience and leadership will serve Georgia EMC and its members well as our State's energy needs continue to grow. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Heather Teilhet in this well-deserved opportunity. I look forward to seeing Georgia EMC continue its important work across our great State. Remembering Richard ``Dick'' Estus

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize John Francis Morrissey, Jr., of Clermont, Florida, a Korean war veteran and accomplished civil engineer, who passed away on June 14, 2026, at the age of 96. Born in 1929, Jack graduated from Brown University with a bachelor of science in civil engineering and became a licensed professional engineer. He served as a lieutenant with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers during the Korean war. Jack spent 34 years in Cheshire, Connecticut, where he served as president of White Oak Corporation, The Farms Country Club, Cheshire Junior Football, and the Connecticut Road Builders Association. Known for his active lifestyle, Jack was an avid golfer, cyclist, walker, and devoted Dodgers fan. He is survived by his three sons: David, Gary, and Bill and their families, along with his significant other, Amy DeVore. Jack's life reflected decades of service, leadership, and dedication to his community and to his country. Congratulating Heather Teilhet

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Abby Leaventon, a jewelry artist from Savannah, Georgia, who was recently named a finalist for the 2026 Halstead Grant. Abby is the founder and designer of Abigail Leaventon Jewelry, where she creates handcrafted sterling silver and gold jewelry inspired by nature, places, and memory. She earned her bachelor of fine arts in jewelry from the Savannah College of Art and Design. The Halstead Grant is one of the jewelry industry's most respected honors, judging finalists on both creative and entrepreneurial skills. Abby was selected from applicants nationwide. Abby now plans to grow her business into new galleries and gift shops, including museum and botanical garden retailers, all while keeping her work rooted in Savannah. Congratulations to Abby Leaventon on her well-earned national recognition. Her craftsmanship and business skills are a credit to Savannah and the entire First District of Georgia. Remembering John F. Morrissey, Jr.