Buddy Carter

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mourn the loss of John Reginald ``Reg'' Murphy, who unfortunately passed away last November. Mr. Murphy was a true Renaissance man who lived an extraordinary life guided by curiosity, integrity, engagement, and helping those in need. Mr. Murphy was raised in Gainesville and attended Mercer University, where he began his journalism career. Throughout his career, Mr. Murphy experienced success working in a variety of esteemed publications, including The Macon Telegraph and The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Shortly after, he was chosen as a Nieman fellow at Harvard University in 1959. Mr. Murphy went on to serve as the editor and publisher of the San Francisco Examiner, and then he became the publisher and CEO of The Baltimore Sun. Throughout his life and career, Mr. Murphy stayed true to his morals and strong ethical compass. Mr. Murphy is survived by his wife, Diana; daughters, Karen and Susan; two grandsons; a sister; and three nieces and nephews. Mr. Murphy will always be remembered as a humble, approachable, gentle, and kind man. Recognizing Marlon Lawrence

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Mr. Joseph Rylon Wills, Jr., a man of faith, service, and dedication. Born in 1957 in Plant City, Florida, Joe was raised by his loving parents, Rylon and Gail. He was active in church and sports, demonstrating a commitment to faith and teamwork from a young age. In 1982, he married Stacy, his lifelong partner, and together they built a beautiful life, raising three wonderful sons, Patrick, Timothy, and David. Joe earned a business degree from Augusta University and had a distinguished career in hospitality and real estate. He worked at Augusta National Golf Club, Sea Island Company, and Brunswick Country Club. Joe later became a top producing realtor, specializing in luxury properties. A devoted church leader, Joe served as an elder and deacon, supporting organizations like Manna House of Brunswick and contributing to community events. He was known for his generosity, kindness, and willingness to help others, always offering a listening ear and thoughtful advice. Joe found joy in family, good friends, music, cycling, and long walks on the beach with his dogs. His legacy of service, faith, and love for his community will continue to inspire all those who knew him.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mourn the loss of Staff Sergeant Ryan Austin O'Hara, who was unfortunately among the three soldiers who passed away in the tragic helicopter accident in Washington, D.C., on January 29. Sergeant O'Hara was a native of Lilburn, Georgia, who began serving in the Army in July of 2014 when he enlisted at the age of 18. He served a tour in Afghanistan in 2017 and then was deployed at Hunter Army Airfield in Savannah, Georgia. Most recently, he was serving at Fort Belvoir in Virginia. Sergeant O'Hara was frequently recognized for his hard work and sacrifice during his time in the Army. He received accolades including: the Army Commendation Medal of Valor, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with campaign star, and Senior Aviation Badge. He was a four-time recipient of the Army Achievement Medal and three-time recipient of the National Defense Service Medal. In addition to being remembered for his honorable service to our Nation, Sergeant O'Hara will always be remembered for his dedication, fearlessness, love for his family, and passion for flight and serving others. Sergeant O'Hara is survived by his parents, his wife, and his 1-year- old son. I extend my deepest condolences to Sergeant Ryan O'Hara's family and friends and all of those impacted by this tragic accident.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Greg Parker, a visionary leader and dedicated philanthropist, as he celebrates 50 years as CEO of Parker's Kitchen. Mr. Parker went from operating a single store in Midway, Georgia, to running a thriving business with nearly 100 locations, embodying the spirit of hard work, innovation, and community service. In 1975, he opened his first store, working every role from pumping gas to cooking food. He built Parker's Kitchen into a household name across Georgia and South Carolina. Even today, he remains hands on, stocking shelves and engaging with customers. Mr. Parker pioneered a customer loyalty program that has saved customers millions in credit card fees. He also introduced an AI- powered smart kitchen to improve efficiency and reduce waste. The Parker's Community Fund focuses on four key pillars: healthcare, hunger, supporting heroes, and education. This foundation has donated $30 million in the last 8 years to support these pillars. As Greg Parker steps down as CEO, his focus shifts toward philanthropy. His aim is to grow the Parker's Community Fund to $100 million and continue prioritizing giving back, strengthening communities, and spending time with loved ones. Greg Parker's success is not measured by stores built or revenue earned, but by the lives he has touched and the communities he has strengthened.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the achievements of Kamille Nuque, a seventh grader who won the Glynn County Spelling Bee on January 15. Kamille, who is a student at Needwood Middle School in Brunswick, Georgia, won first place in the competition with 14 other spelling bee champions by correctly spelling the word ``astringent.'' Kamille's inspiration to compete is her older sister, Kara, who won back-to-back Glynn County Spelling Bees in 2021 and 2022. In addition to inspiration from her older sister, Kamille was supported by her parents, Karl and Mary, who helped her study by asking her to spell words from books. Because of her hard work and dedication, Kamille was able to stay relaxed and focused on stage during the intense competition. I would also like to congratulate Needwood Middle School eighth grader Julia Knight, who came in second place and will serve as the alternate to Kamille in the region competition. I wish Kamille luck as she represents Glynn County in the region 8 competition at Georgia Southern's Savannah campus on February 22.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mourn the loss of Lila Cay Williams Critz who unfortunately passed away last week at the age of 89. Mrs. Critz graduated from Leon High School in Tallahassee, Florida, and then attended Duke University where she received her B.A. in history and met her husband, Dale Critz. Mr. and Mrs. Critz then moved to Savannah, Georgia, where she played an integral part in the community by devoting herself to civic and community organizations. She was a member of the Junior League of Savannah, a volunteer for the Historic Savannah Foundation, and a board member and president of the Telfair Academy which she led through periods of tremendous growth. Mrs. Critz, a woman of strong faith, was a dedicated communicant of Christ Church Episcopal for over 50 years. Mr. and Mrs. Critz were married for 66 years. Their partnership extended beyond family and business to adventurous hobbies including hunting and fishing. Mrs. Critz is survived by her son, Dale Jr., and daughter, Lila; four grandchildren; one great-grandchild; her sister and brother; and three nephews. She will always be remembered as a loving wife, mother, and grandmother.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Savannah Feed the Hungry, an organization that has served as a pillar of hope and nourishment for Georgia's First District since 2009. Savannah Feed the Hungry has provided over 1.5 million meals, fighting hunger and food insecurity across the Lowcountry. What started as a mission to help low-income families has expanded to serve over 14 cities offering: fresh produce distribution, gas giveaways, disaster relief efforts and seminars and workshops for financial and job readiness. In 2019, Savannah Feed the Hungry, in partnership with St. Joseph/ Candler, established the Empowerment Center, which equips individuals with: financial literacy training, job readiness programs, and nutritional education. Beyond food assistance, the organization promotes urban gardening and healthy cooking classes, fostering self-sufficiency and community engagement. For 16 years, its annual ``Hope for a Plate'' holiday dinner has ensured that thousands of people receive a warm meal and companionship during the holidays. Savannah Feed the Hungry is not just feeding people--it is empowering lives. Its commitment to these values deserves our recognition and support.

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 the Protecting American Energy Production Act. Unleashing American energy dominance is one of the most important tasks facing Congress right now. Restricting the flow of American energy over the last 4 years has forced the price of everything, especially fueling our cars and heating our homes, to skyrocket. Finally, with Republicans back in control of both Chambers of Congress and the Presidency, we can follow through on the American people's mandate to unleash American energy. Under the Biden administration, the attacks against energy dominance were crippling. Even in his final days in office, President Biden tried to ban American energy by stopping almost all new U.S. offshore drilling projects. Congressman Pfluger's bill is a commonsense piece of legislation that will allow individual States to maintain control of their own fracking policies and prevent executive overreach. America is a large country with diverse energy needs. A one-size- fits-all strategy might make life easier for Washington bureaucrats, but it does not work for the American people. This bill simply acknowledges that States, not the Federal Government, know what energy sources are best for them and allows fracking to be a tool in a State's tool chest. This will help lower costs for families who spent 4 years under the Biden-Harris administration having to choose between filling up their cars and paying for groceries. Madam Speaker, I thank my colleagues and my friend, Representative Pfluger, for introducing this essential piece of legislation. It has my full support.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mourn the loss of John F. McMullan, who sadly passed away earlier this month at the age of 88. Mr. McMullan was born in Covington, Georgia, and graduated from the University of Georgia with his accounting degree and master's in business administration. He was an avid Georgia Bulldog. Mr. McMullan and his beloved wife, Marilyn, were married in 1959. Mr. and Mrs. McMullan had been acclaimed for their generosity both inside and outside of the State of Georgia. Mr. and Mrs. McMullan had contributed to more varied campaigns at the University of Georgia than any other donor in the university's history, a testament to their generosity. As a history lover and a seventh-generation Georgian, Mr. McMullan dedicated 52 years to the Georgia Historical Society, serving as board curator and endowment trustee. He gave his time, talent, and resources to make a profound and long-lasting impact on the institution. Mr. McMullan is survived by his wife, Marilyn, his sons, Tom and Ted, and four grandchildren. Mr. McMullan will always be remembered for his wise counsel, intellectual curiosity, infectious laugh, and optimism that the bright light of history will always make the future better.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mourn the loss of Charles Tamlin Hall, Jr., who unfortunately passed away this week at the age of 74. Mr. Hall attended the University of Georgia and proudly served as the president of the University of Georgia College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences Alumni Association Board of Directors. He touched the lives of countless individuals as a leader in the State of Georgia and throughout his 52 years of marriage to his beloved wife, Jan. Mr. Hall founded his company, Association Services Group, in 1995, which was recognized as one of the fastest growing companies in Georgia, a testament to his reliability and leadership. His faith was the cornerstone of his life, spending time as a deacon and greeter for the First Baptist Church on the Square. He enjoyed his Friday morning Bible study, which has been meeting for over 45 years. Mr. Hall is survived by his lovely wife, Jan; their children, Emily Brewton and Tamlin Hall; five grandchildren; his brother, and five nieces and nephews.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and the service of Samuel Lilley, a dedicated pilot and proud resident of Richmond Hill, Georgia, in the First Congressional District. His tragic passing in a midair collision near Washington, D.C., is a heartbreaking loss for his family, his community, and for our Nation. Sam was a graduate of Richmond Hill High School where he was known for his strong work ethic, his leadership, and his kindness. He was driven. He was hardworking and always willing to lend a hand to those in need. He had a bright future ahead of him filled with dreams and aspirations that he was determined to achieve. Beyond his many accomplishments, Sam was a charismatic and intelligent young man who loved his fiance, Lydia Coles; flying; his family; and the Lord. His passing leaves an unimaginable void in the lives of those who have loved him, but his memory will forever remain in their hearts. The Richmond Hill community has come together to mourn and honor his life, a testament to the impact he had on so many. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, to his fiance, and to his loved ones. May they find comfort in the lasting memories of his life and his legacy.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Kevin Jones, who retired as Brunswick police chief after an exceptional 30- year career in law enforcement. His dedication to service has had a lasting impact on the community. Chief Jones served as Brunswick's police chief since February of 2019, focusing on modernizing policing practices, enhancing officer training, and improving public safety efforts. His leadership emphasized transparency, accountability, and community trust, earning respect from citizens and city officials alike. Under his guidance, Brunswick experienced a significant reduction in crime, a revitalization of neighborhood watch programs, and improved police- community relations. His dedication made Brunswick a safer place to live, strengthened ties between the community and law enforcement, and increased confidence in the department. Chief Jones announced his retirement in October of 2024, ensuring a smooth leadership transition for the department. He has mentored many officers, ensuring the next generation of leaders is ready to step up. Chief Jones leaves behind a legacy of integrity, leadership, and service that will continue to inspire the community for many years to come.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Dr. John W. Wells on his appointment as the 24th president of Young Harris College. This marks a very significant moment in the history of the institution and its promising future. Dr. Wells' selection is a testament to his leadership, vision, and dedication to higher education. He is no stranger to Young Harris College, having previously served as provost and interim president during a pivotal period of transformation. His contribution during that time laid the foundation for significant growth, and his return marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the institution. With over 30 years of experience in higher education, Dr. Wells has consistently demonstrated excellence in leadership. At Emory & Henry College, he led record enrollment and fundraising efforts. He oversaw the transition of athletics to NCAA Division II and guided the institution toward achieving university status, showcasing his ability to drive meaningful progress. Mr. Speaker, Dr. Wells' vision, passion, and leadership will undoubtedly guide Young Harris to even greater achievements.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the retirement of Mr. Jeff Barker, marking the conclusion of a truly remarkable career. For over 40 years, Mr. Barker dedicated his life to leadership, compassion, and service. He spent 20 years at Gilman Paper Company, which was once the largest privately-owned paper company in America and a cornerstone employer in Camden County. After the mill transitioned ownership, he continued his distinguished career as executive vice President. Following the paper mill's closure in 2002, Mr. Barker was selected as the first president and CEO of the St. Mary's United Methodist Church Foundation. Under his leadership, the foundation expanded its mission to serve southeast Georgia, the Nation, and the world. It has promoted global Methodism, supported evangelical ministries, and partnered in international relief efforts. For 24 years, Mr. Barker brought hope and opportunity to vulnerable populations in his community and across the globe. His life's works left a legacy, both locally and internationally. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Barker and offer our best wishes to him and his family as he embarks on a well-earned retirement.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, which has been recognized as the No. 1 airport in the U.S. by the Conde Nast Traveler Readers' Choice awards. This is the fifth consecutive year that the airport has been awarded this incredible honor, recognizing the effort staff puts forth to ensure a great travel experience. In addition to outstanding customer service, the Reader's Choice Awards recognized the airport's unique southern charm and intimate, inviting atmosphere. This prestigious recognition is awarded based on feedback from over 500,000 survey respondents and is known as one of the longest running and most respected awards in the travel industry. The airport was recognized alongside distinguished restaurants, hotels, and resorts located all over the world. The repeated acknowledgement of the airport demonstrates its commitment to world-class service and providing passengers with enjoyable travel experiences. I congratulate the team at the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport on this exceptional honor and continued excellence.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the achievement of Paula Wallace, who was awarded the Presidential Citizens Medal this month. Paula Wallace dreamed of a school that would transform how we think about public education. By establishing the esteemed Savannah College of Art and Design and serving as its president, Ms. Wallace has fulfilled this dream and guided thousands of students into creative industries. The Presidential Citizens Medal was awarded to 20 recipients who performed exemplary deeds of service for their country or fellow citizens. Recipients of the Presidential Citizens Medal are characterized by their common decency and commitment to serving others, which Ms. Wallace has demonstrated by being a lifelong educator and trailblazer of the arts. Ms. Wallace was selected to be among the distinguished group honored at the White House because her dedication and vision have made our Nation and Georgia's First Congressional District better. We congratulate Ms. Wallace on this honorable achievement and recognition for all of her hard work. On a personal note, we thank her for everything she has done for my hometown of Savannah, Georgia. I continue to say that SCAD transformed Savannah, Georgia. Honoring Reverend Wayne Racz

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the achievement of the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force which has been named best museum in Georgia Business Journal's 2024 Best of Georgia awards. The museum exists to educate visitors about the courage, character, valor, and patriotism of the brave individuals who fought in the largest air armada in history, the Eighth Air Force. The museum preserves the stories of these individuals using exhibits, archival material, and artifacts including a fully restored B-17 Flying Fortress and an immersive simulated bombing experience. The Georgia Business Journal conducts the Best of Georgia awards every year, allowing the public to vote for their favorite organizations across a variety of industries in the State. In 2024, the people of Georgia selected the Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force to be awarded this prestigious honor to celebrate its excellence and recognize its dedication to preserving the history and legacy of the Eighth Air Force. Selected out of over 30 contenders, the award recognizes the museum's significant role in education, preservation, and community engagement. Congratulations to the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air on this honorable achievement.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Reverend Wayne Racz whose retirement marks the culmination of over 25 years of faithful service in the ministry. Throughout his career, Reverend Racz has been a guiding light in the United Methodist Church, serving congregations across south Georgia. Most recently, he served as pastor at St. Simons Island United Methodist Church and St. Luke in Savannah where he strengthened their mission and built meaningful connections within their communities. In addition to his role as pastor, Reverend Racz served in leadership positions within the United Methodist Church's connectional ministries, leaving an unforgettable impact on its missions and outreach. His 9 years at Epworth stand out as a testament to his devotion, during which he touched countless lives and expanded God's kingdom. As he retires to spend more time with his family and friends, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for his remarkable service. While he steps away from his former roles, his legacy will endure as an ambassador of faith and compassion. Recognizing the Achievement of the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of William G. Fallin who passed away on January 4, 2025, at the age of 92. Mr. Fallin was born on September 9, 1932 in Thomas County, Georgia, and later moved to Moultrie where he graduated high school at just 15 years old. He went on to attend Georgia Military College and Mercer University, earning degrees in history and law. He was married to his beloved wife, Barbara Vines, for 67 years, and together, they raised three wonderful children. A dedicated attorney, Mr. Fallin practiced law for over 60 years and cofounded the law firm Fallin & McIntosh. He also served two terms in the Georgia House of Representatives and chaired the Colquitt County Board of Commissioners for 12 years. Mr. Fallin left a lasting legacy, helping the construction of Colquitt Regional Medical Center and preserving historic landmarks in his community. He was deeply committed to his faith, serving as a deacon, Sunday schoolteacher, and choir member at First Baptist Church. An avid sportsman and outdoorsman, he enjoyed tennis, golf, hunting, and fishing. His life was celebrated on January 8, 2025, at First Baptist Church in his hometown.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Senior Citizens, Inc., a cornerstone of our community in Savannah, Georgia, as they celebrate their 65th anniversary. Since 1959, this remarkable organization has been dedicated to helping older adults age successfully, providing essential services that enhance their quality of life. Senior Citizens, Inc., offers a comprehensive range of programs, including in-home care, Meals on Wheels, adult day health services, and The Learning Center, which provides lifelong learning opportunities. Their care navigators serve as a vital resource, connecting seniors and their families to the support they need. Through initiatives like the Senior Companions program, volunteers provide friendship and assistance to their older neighbors, fostering a sense of community and belonging. Their commitment to our veterans through partnerships like the VetAssist program ensures that those who have served our country receive the care they deserve. As the Representative of Georgia's First Congressional District, I am deeply grateful for the unwavering dedication of Senior Citizens, Inc. Their compassionate services have touched countless lives, embodying the service of community and care that makes our district exceptional. Please join me in congratulating Senior Citizens, Inc., on 65 years of outstanding service and in wishing them continued success in the years to come.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Senior Citizens, Inc., a cornerstone of our community in Savannah, Georgia, as they celebrate their 65th anniversary. Since 1959, this remarkable organization has been dedicated to helping older adults age successfully, providing essential services that enhance their quality of life. Senior Citizens, Inc. offers a comprehensive range of programs, including in-home care, Meals on Wheels, adult day health services, and The Learning Center, which provides lifelong learning opportunities. Their Care Navigators serve as a vital resource, connecting seniors and their families to the support they need. Through initiatives like the Senior Companions program, volunteers provide friendship and assistance to their older neighbors, fostering a sense of community and belonging. Their commitment to our veterans through partnerships like the VetAssist Program ensures that those who have served our country receive the care they deserve. As the representative of Georgia's First Congressional District, I am deeply grateful for the unwavering dedication of Senior Citizens, Inc. Their compassionate service has touched countless lives, embodying the spirit of community and care that makes our district exceptional. Please join me in congratulating Senior Citizens, Inc. on 65 years of outstanding service and in wishing them continued success in the years to come.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mourn the loss of Sonny Smart, who unfortunately passed away this month at the age of 76. Mr. Smart graduated from Samford in 1970, where he played the position of center on the football team. He joined Holtville High School as an assistant coach shortly after his graduation. Soon, Mr. Smart began his 23-year head coaching career. At the beginning of his career as a head coach, Mr. Smart was a high school football coach at Bainbridge High School in south Georgia from 1988 to 1994. He then moved on to become the head coach at Rabun County High School of north Georgia in 1995 where he remained until his retirement. The father of Georgia football Coach Kirby Smart, Sonny Smart was a valued member of the Georgia community. During his time at Bainbridge, he even had the opportunity to coach his son Kirby. Mr. Smart is survived by his wife, Sharon, and his three children, Karl, Kirby, and Kendall. He will always be remembered as an incredible father, husband, coach, and friend.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to mourn the loss of Patricia Barragan Schreck, who sadly passed away at the age of 95. Ms. Schreck was a longtime organist and choir director for 66 years at the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist. At just 16 years old, Ms. Schreck became the organist at the cathedral in 1946. She managed several choirs, including the Savannah Catholic Deanery Choir, the SVA Alumnae Chorus, and the cathedral men's choir and women's choir. Ms. Schreck was also the music director at St. Vincent's Academy for 47 years of her career, where she taught choral singing and church music. Her service to the academy was impactful. Ms. Schreck composed the fight song and the academy's alma mater, which are still sung today. Ms. Schreck was awarded a medal for her work in the church by Pope Saint John Paul II and recognized by the city of Savannah, from which she was gifted a key to the city. Additionally, Savannah also declared Patty Barragan Schreck Day on May 31, 1981. Ms. Schreck will forever be remembered as a dedicated servant of God and her community through her service to the church and to the city of Savannah.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Stacy Jennings on being named United Way's 2025 Woman of the Year. Ms. Jennings has been a longtime volunteer and the heart of community service in Savannah. She has spent 33 years with the United Way of the Coastal Empire, where she has served on the board, several committees, and helped fundraise. Ms. Jennings is also the executive director of communications for the Savannah-Chatham County Board of Education. She has proven herself to be a dedicated leader and impactful server of the community by supporting families and students across the community within the school system. Ms. Jennings' honorable achievement as United Way's Woman of the Year will be celebrated in March at the Women Who Rule event, hosted at the Savannah Convention Center. She currently serves on the marketing committee and has not stopped her efforts to join new committees since she started at the United Way of the Coastal Empire. Madam Speaker, I congratulate Ms. Jennings on this incredible accomplishment and thank her for her dedicated service to the city of Savannah. Mourning the Loss of Sheriff Charles Wilbert ``Chunk'' Jones

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act, which ensures fairness and safety in girls athletics. For the past 4 years, the Biden-Harris administration and congressional Democrats have made it very clear: They want men competing against our daughters and granddaughters. They want to force schools to allow biological males to share private spaces with biological females and compete in women's sports. That is wrong. In fact, the vast majority of Americans agree that men do not belong in women's sports or in women's locker rooms. Ask working-class Americans if Michael Phelps should have swum the women's 200-meter freestyle. The answer is no. That is why we must protect women's sports, and under President-elect Trump's leadership we are already fulfilling that promise. This week, the House of Representatives will stand with all young women and girls who deserve to have the opportunity to compete safely and fairly. As a grandfather to six wonderful, capable granddaughters, this is important to me. This bill will safeguard and uphold the integrity and safety of women's sports and the true intention of Title IX, allowing all women the opportunity to achieve excellence in sports. I commend Representative Steube for working on this issue, and I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act.