Buddy Carter

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and thank Steve Stirling, who is retiring as CEO of Medicine for All People (MAP) International. MAP International is a Christian, non-profit, global health organization that provides medicine and health supplies to those in need. This organization is headquartered in Atlanta and does amazing work worldwide. Steve has successfully led this organization since 2014. Steve has an impressive leadership background in both the non-profit and corporate spaces, and he brought that valuable experience to MAP for over a decade of loyal service. He has worked tirelessly to bring health and hope to millions of people around the globe. In addition to his strong leadership, he has led MAP International into entering its 70th year of service with a promising future that includes extending its impact across the globe. I want to recognize and congratulate Steve on his outstanding career with MAP International and wish him a happy and healthy retirement. I also want to recognize Chris Palombo as the new CEO and congratulate him on his achievement.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize James W. Thompson for his record-breaking catch. A native of St. Simons, 21- year-old James set a new state record for an almaco jack caught on July 28th. Measuring in at a whopping 27 pounds and 8 ounces, it broke the previous record by 4 pounds. This is no small feat. The almaco jack is known for its strength and stamina, humbling anglers who do not take it seriously. With this catch, James proved that he is a skilled fisherman. This is the third time in the past year alone that the record for almaco jack has been broken. It is a reminder that Georgia's coastal waters provide exceptional fishing for anglers of all ages. It's important that we maintain the health and biodiversity of Georgia's waters, so that our children and grandchildren can enjoy one of our states' favorite pastimes.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mourn the loss of two Georgia national guard soldiers, Travis Jordan Pameni and Owen James Elliott. Both at the young age of 23, Travis and Owen passed away in Baghdad on Wednesday from unrelated, non-combat causes. Mr. Pameni was assigned to the 1st Batallion of the 121st Infantry Regiment based in Lawrenceville, and Mr. Elliott was assigned to the 1st Batallion of the 188th Field Artillery Regiment based in Savannah. Mr. Elliott's unit was deployed in the Middle East in December of 2023 and focused on air defense artillery. We are extremely saddened by the loss of Specialists Pameni and Elliott. Both were devoted, selfless individuals, who served the state of Georgia and our Nation. The contributions and memory of Specialists Pameni and Elliott will forever be cherished by the state of Georgia and our country. I extend my deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of Mr. Pameni and Mr. Elliott.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mourn the loss of Colonel Sidney ``Sid'' Miles. Sid was the Colonel and Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Public Safety. Recognized for his commitment to public education and enforcement of the Georgia safety belt use law, Mr. Miles was presented with a public service award from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in 1998. Prior to his appointment at the Department of Public Safety, Mr. Miles spent several decades serving at the Georgia State Patrol. He retired from his career in law enforcement in 1999. Mr. Miles was a dedicated public servant to the state of Georgia and will be greatly missed by those he served with. I send my deepest condolences to Sid's wife and two children. My thoughts and prayers are with all of his family and friends at this moment.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and remember the life of Charles ``Chuck'' Bloodworth, a former member of the U.S. Army and law enforcement. Mr. Bloodworth was known for his outstanding commitment to his military and law enforcement careers. He was a distinguished public servant who dedicated his life to serving the people of Georgia and the United States of America. He began his career in the U.S. Army and transitioned into different areas within law enforcement. Notably, Mr. Bloodworth worked in the Secret Service where he performed electronic crime investigations and worked to protect an array of individuals, including U.S. Presidents. Mr. Bloodworth's dignified service was recognized with Senate Resolution 111, signifying an exceptional life of public service. Senator Anavitarte's (An-Uh-Vi-Tart-Ey) tribute to Mr. Bloodworth highlighted his strong influence that was felt deeply throughout the communities that he touched. Mr. Bloodworth's legacy of great honor and patriotism will forever be cherished by the Georgia community and the United States of America.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Billy Covington and his dedication to leading the youth at the Jenkins Athletic Club. Billy is just now retiring after an impressive 30 year run as the organization's executive director. However, Billy's love for the club began well before he took on this leadership role. In fact, the Jenkins Athletic Club provided a formative experience for Billy in his youth. It was here where Billy developed a passion for basketball and the club itself, later winning the state crown for Savannah High in 1974 and continuing to play at Livingston University and South Georgia State College. Under his leadership, the Club's programs served the community's youth greatly. Just last winter, it had an astounding and diverse cohort of 800 kids in their basketball league. As described by Billy, the Jenkins Athletic Club is not just an afterschool program, but a haven of sports and coaches who care about its youth and their families. Congratulations to Billy on his retirement. His impact within his community will be felt forever.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and remember the life of former Georgia Senator Dr. Don Thomas, who sadly passed at the age of 91, after a long battle with Parkinson's disease. Dr. Don Thomas, a native of Dalton, led a tremendous life both as a physician and public servant. Dr. Don Thomas delivered thousands of babies, treating thousands more patients with a medical career spanning more than half a century. He got his political start as a member of the Whitfield County School Board in 1972, then served as Chairman of the Board from 1974 to 1984. Notably, he spearheaded a statewide battle that led to Georgia's adoption of equalized funding for local school systems. Not only did he make his mark in the education system, but also as Georgia state Senator where he pushed major bipartisan legislation such as the prohibition of smoking in restaurants and public places. Dr. Don Thomas' legacy will forever be remembered through the many positive impacts he made across the state of Georgia and his community.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the retirement of Bryan County Fire Chief Freddy Howell. Mr. Howell has had a wonderful thirty-nine year career serving his community, and we are all better off for and will deeply miss his passionate service. During his time of public service for Bryan County, Mr. Howell led his department in various cleanup efforts and oversaw the expansion of the fire department. He led the cleanup for a tornado in North Bryan that damaged many parts of our community, and Mr. Howell secured several grants that grew his department's team from 36 to over 100 firefighters. The fire department also acquired new equipment, ambulances, and tankers under Mr. Howell's leadership. With his passion for aiding others, Mr. Howell greatly enhanced Bryan County's emergency response capabilities. Following his retirement from the Bryan County Fire Department, Mr. Howell plans to join the private sector as a customer relationship manager. I thank Mr. Howell for his impactful public service to Bryan County.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Golfweek Super Senior National Championship Winner Stevie Cannady. Mr. Cannady turned 65 in early January, making 2024 his inaugural season in the Super Senior division. Prior to his National Championship victory, he had his best finish of 2024 in early May at the Lowcountry Senior invitational, placing in the top 5. He hit 86 percent of fairways and 89 percent of greens with a final-round score of 70, jumping up to the lead and placing first in the National Championship. Aside from his many golf achievements, Mr. Cannady owns a logistics company specializing in trucking, warehousing, and commercial real estate. Cannady is a valued member of our community and a force on the golf course. Congratulations to Mr. Cannady on an amazing accomplishment, and I can't wait to see what he achieves next.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mourn the loss of William Arthur ``Bill'' Hughes, who sadly passed at the age of 96. Bill served for three years in the United States Marine Corps and attended the FAA Aeronautical Center in Oklahoma City, which launched him into his 28-year career as a dedicated air traffic controller. After his time in Oklahoma City, Bill and his beloved wife, Nancy, lived in Wilmington, North Carolina, Savannah, Georgia, and Isle of Hope. After settling down in Isle of Hope, Bill began his second career as a ``starter'' of one of Skidaway Island's golf courses. Mr. Hughes was also well known for his incredible athletic skills. Bill played on the Marine Corps football team and was a highly talented bowler. Bill and his wife Nancy are survived by their three children, William, Martha, and Jennings. Mr. Hughes was a hardworking individual who will be missed greatly by his family, friends, and coworkers. I send my most sincere condolences to Bill's wife and three children. My thoughts and prayers are with all his family and friends in this moment.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 76th anniversary of City Market, the supplier to Sea Island Corporation and many other restaurants in South Georgia. City Market was founded in 1848 in Brunswick by Harold Sigmund and E.W. Stanford, Sr. Upon E.W. Stanford, Sr.'s death that same year, his 18-year-old son and E.W. ``Captain Red'' Stanford, Jr. took over the business. The two eventually bought out Mr. Sigmond and continued building a great reputation for the business. City Market then moved to its current location on Gloucester Street in 1969. After his passing, Captain Red left the legacy of City Market to his grandson, Frank ``Little Red'' Owens, Jr., as well as his brother and sons, Walker and Wyatt Owens. Left to run the packing house was his son-in-law, Bruce Collins, Sr. Through the dedication of the family and its loyal customers, City Market has continued to grow and prosper. Congratulations to City Market, a true family business, on 76 years of success and hard work.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Gustavous ``Gus'' Holmes Bell III of Savannah, GA, who passed away on July 22nd at the age of 86. Gus, known by many as ``Buster,'' was a dedicated, hard-working man, who earned a degree in Civil Engineer from The Citadel before attending graduate school at the University of Kentucky. Gus was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant as a Reserve Commissioned Officer in the U.S. Army. After assignments in Virginia, Texas, and New Mexico, Gus moved to Kentucky and was hired in an engineering role. Gus, eventually landed in Savannah and was honorably discharged in 1969. Gus was an engineer who was instrumental in establishing a partnership between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia. In honor of Gus's contributions to the city, Former mayor Eddie DeLoach declared August 11th as ``Gus H. Bell III'' Day in Savannah. Gus was also a founder of St. Andrews on the Marsh School in Savannah and a member of First Presbyterian Church in Savannah. Gus was married for 42 years to his beloved wife Mandy. After her passing, he was blessed to marry Jan Hall. He is survived by his three children, Lisa, Adam and Holmes, as well as his grandchildren and great grandchildren. We mourn his loss and keep him and his family in our prayers.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Ed Zipperer on his 93rd birthday. A local legend, Ed was born in Savannah, Georgia, in 1931. He grew up working on his family farm along U.S. 17. He attended Savannah High School before earning an agricultural engineering degree from the University of Georgia. He went on to coach basketball in 1965, forming one of the few racially integrated teams in the State. Well liked by all, he was persuaded to run for the State Senate, ultimately winning the seat and serving in the State Senate from 1967 to 1975. Serving on 13 committees, he was instrumental in building the Skidaway Island State Park, Fort McAllister State Park, and Kings Ferry Ogeechee River public recreational area. He was dedicated to protecting and preserving land in south Georgia. In addition, Ed served as president of the Chatham County Farm Bureau for 40 years. Ed has dedicated his life to serving those around him and continues to do that going on 93 years strong. Mr. Speaker, we are thankful for great Americans such as Ed Zipperer.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Georgia's Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4 for winning POWER's Plant of the Year Award. For 30 years, America hadn't seen the full construction of a nuclear reactor until the construction of Plant Vogtle's Units 3 and 4. Now, 25 percent of the State of Georgia's electricity is sourced from nuclear power. That is due to Vogtle Units 3 and 4 entering operations in 2023 and 2024. Georgia Power, Oglethorpe Power, MEAG Power, and Dalton Utilities should be proud of their years of hard work cemented in this landmark construction and acknowledged with this fantastic award. The construction has also led to thousands of new jobs for Georgians in addition to the clean, reliable baseload energy being supplied to households across the State. Plant Vogtle has done a great job innovating ways to provide the best service to the people of Georgia. I congratulate and thank them.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mourn the loss of Bryan Lemons. Bryan was chief counsel for the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, FLETC, in Glynco, Georgia. Bryan oversaw the legal training provided for Federal, State, local, and international law enforcement officers. Before his selection as chief counsel, he served as the assistant director for the Mission and Readiness Support Directorate. Across four separate training sites as assistant director, he oversaw $225 million in service contracts to help train over 70,000 students. In his many years with FLETC, Bryan worked hard to ensure our Federal law enforcement agents received the highest caliber training possible. Bryan was also a proud Marine Corps veteran where he served as defense attorney, prosecuting attorney, and senior legal adviser for executive level managers until 1999 when he made the move to FLETC. In 2022, Bryan received the DHS Secretary's Exceptional Service Gold Medal Award. I send my deepest condolences and prayers to Bryan's wife and to his four children.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that when the House adjourns today, it adjourn to meet at 9 a.m. tomorrow.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the distinguished career of Mrs. Bernadette Ball-Oliver following her recent retirement from the Savannah-Chatham County Public School System. Mrs. Ball-Oliver completed her successful 35-year career as the deputy superintendent of teaching and learning for the school system where she always put the needs of students first. She graduated from Beach High School and returned to Savannah's public school system as a high school English teacher. Throughout her career, she served as a teacher, an assistant principal, a principal, and worked in the central office as a school turnaround executive director for her alma mater before becoming deputy superintendent. Mrs. Ball-Oliver is known for her dedication to promoting what is best for students and improving educational outcomes for students across Savannah. I know I join all students, parents, and employees of the Savannah- Chatham County Public School System in wishing Mrs. Ball-Oliver a wonderful, well-deserved retirement. Recognizing Dr. Russell T. Keen

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my sincere gratitude for Brooke Ann Childers, our amazing district director in Savannah. Brooke passionately served the First Congressional District of Georgia for many years, and our district is better off for her hard work and dedication. As our district director, Brooke has ensured that the highest level of constituent outreach and services are met throughout the district. From cofounding the southeastern Rotary E-Club to volunteering across Georgia's First District, Brooke continues to improve our community in her professional and private life. She is a member of several women's GOP groups and the First Congressional District GOP. In every aspect of Brooke's time with us, she has prioritized the growth, well-being, and empowerment of the people she encounters. I am forever grateful for her leadership in our district office and representation in our community. I wish Brooke good luck in her future endeavors. We surely will miss her. Recognizing Charlie Condon

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to share the exciting news that Augusta University has named its next president, my friend, Dr. Russell T. Keen. The Georgia Board of Regents voted for Keen to lead the university, which includes the primary medical and dental school in the State. I echo the words of USG Chancellor Sonny Perdue when I say that we are looking forward to seeing how Dr. Keen continues to push Augusta University toward being one of the best research universities in the Nation and to set its students up for lifelong success. Keen is well equipped for the new position as he has over 20 years of experience in higher education, including his current role as executive vice president for administration and chief of staff to the retiring president. I congratulate Russell. He is more than qualified to lead this prestigious institution. I know he will serve the Augusta community very well.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize University of Georgia baseball player Charlie Condon who recently was awarded the Golden Spikes Award. This award is given annually to the premier amateur baseball player in the country, combining on-field accolades with a penchant for sportsmanship. Condon began his career at Georgia as a walk-on and ended his career as the single-season home-run leader at Georgia. He broke the Georgia program record in just two seasons of being in the lineup, hitting 62 home runs in only 116 games. Charlie also led the country in home runs, batting average, slugging percentage, total bases, and OPS this season as well. Not only is he the university's first Golden Spikes Award winner, but he is also the first Dick Howser Trophy winner, as well as the Bobby Bragan National Collegiate Slugger Award winner. In addition to his stellar hitting, he was also well accomplished in the field, playing first and third base and all three outfield positions. I congratulate Charlie on an amazing career at the University of Georgia. I look forward to seeing how many more home runs he hits in his professional career. Recognizing Bernadette Ball-Oliver

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. I rise today in support of the Representative from Iowa's bill, H.R. 7637. The Refrigerator Freedom Act will protect American consumers from unaffordable and unrealistic standards from the Department of Energy. The Department of Energy efficiency standards for home appliances have long reached the point of overregulation and now cause more harm than good for consumers. According to testimony before the Energy and Commerce Committee, most major home appliances have been subjected to four, five, or even six rounds of successively tighter DOE efficiency standards over the decades. We have long reached the point of diminishing our negative returns for consumers, yet DOE continues to wage a war against the American consumer. Instead of doubling down on failing climate policy pursuits, we should reexamine the existing standards that are not in the best interest of consumers with little to no so-called climate benefits. The Refrigerator Freedom Act will stop DOE from prescribing or enforcing these arbitrary standards that are not helping consumers at all, and worse, increasing costs without added benefits. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill on behalf of the American consumer and true efficiency.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Parker's Convenience Stores for celebrating 40 years in business. Patrick Parker opened his first location in 1986 under the name Three Little Birds. Today, it has grown to 11 convenience stores throughout coastal Georgia. All Parker's locations tailor their products to meet customers' needs. Some stores are known for their gourmet food or beach items while other stores are better known for their homestyle cooking. Part of the local chain's success is due to the Parker family's continuous involvement in both their business and the community. From supporting their children's schools to giving back to other charities, the Parkers are pillars of coastal Georgia. This tradition will certainly continue as Jack Parker, Patrick's son, is moving home to take over and expand the family business. I congratulate Parker's Convenience Stores on 40 years of successful business and wish them well in the future.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Ella Shaffer's incredible accomplishments. She recently earned the Congressional Gold Medal, which has been her goal since her first year of high school. One of the requirements is to complete 400 hours of community service. For Ella's dedication to our community, she received her award here in Washington in a ceremony for all the award winners from across the country. In addition to her congressional award, Ella has earned the Girl Scout Bronze and Silver Awards and is working on her Gold. The Bronze Award was earned by collaborating with her troop to build three buddy benches for a local elementary school playground. She earned the Silver Award by creating an observational bee box to help protect local bee populations. Her plan for her Gold Award is to establish a youth triathlon in Savannah. She was recognized by the Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia during their annual Legacy of Leadership breakfast. Ella Shaffer is the true definition of a servant leader, and we thank her for all the hard work she has done for the community.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Mr. Abit Massey who recently passed away at the age of 96. Abit Massey was a respected leader across the State of Georgia. He was appointed in 1959 as the director of what is now the Georgia Department of Economic Development before he was named the president of the Georgia Poultry Federation, a position he served in for 48 years. In 2009, he retired and served as president emeritus until his death. Mr. Massey was known as an icon and leader across the agricultural community and is responsible, in part, for the growth and success of Georgia's poultry industry, earning him the title ``dean of the poultry industry.'' He used his free time to give back by serving on boards and advisory committees of countless organizations. More than this, Mr. Massey was known for his outstanding character and being a friend to everyone he met. I join all Georgians in honoring the life and mourning the loss of a Georgia giant, Mr. Abit Massey, whose legacy will be felt for generations to come.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor and remember the life of Thomas C. Strickland, Jr., who sadly passed away at the age of 81 after battling an extended illness. Tommy was born and raised in Pooler, Georgia. He graduated from Georgia Southern in 1965 and from the John A. Gupton College of Mortuary Science in 1966. He was the son of T.C. Strickland and Birdie Strickland, who I knew well. From 1966 until 1972, Tommy served his country in the Georgia Air National Guard. He was the first funeral director in the State of Georgia to be certified in eye enucleation. In 1971, he purchased the Leslie Thompson Funeral Home, which later became the Thomas C. Strickland and Sons Funeral Home, with locations in Effingham County and Pooler. Tommy was an active member at Pine Street Baptist Church and Springfield Oaks Church. Tommy was the brother of Marvin and Mary Frances. Tommy will be remembered for his love of family, community, and Jesus. He will be deeply missed by all.