Buddy Carter

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in remembrance of Patrick Leon Bennett, who passed away on July 28, 2023, at the age of 55. Patrick was born in Waycross, Georgia, and lived most of his life in Pierce County. He was known for being an endearing and funny person by many and a celebrated member of the Future Farmers of America. He was passionate for hunting, fishing, and coaching recreational football. Patrick was able to lead his teams to three State championships, two of which he won. Furthermore, Patrick was active in his teenage years in the FFA organization, including serving as chapter officer, a member of the 1985 State Winner Dairy Judging Team, 1986 State Livestock Judging Team, and recipient of the Green Hand Degree, Chapter Farmer Degree, and Georgia Planter Degree. He will be remembered by his family and friends and his community, which he served well.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize October as American Pharmacists Month. As a pharmacist myself, I recognize pharmacists' contributions to our healthcare system and our communities. Pharmacists play a crucial role in our communities. Over 90 percent of the U.S. population can access a pharmacy within a 5-mile radius of their homes. For many, they are their main access to healthcare. Ninety percent of COVID-19 vaccinations, 60 to 70 percent of flu vaccines, and over 80 percent of overall vaccines in the United States are administered in pharmacies. It is no wonder that pharmacists are the most trusted and accessible healthcare professionals in the Nation. I could talk for days about the importance of pharmacists in the American healthcare system, and I am proud of my own time as a pharmacist. During this month of October, make sure to thank a pharmacist, as they truly are the backbone of our healthcare system.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today to celebrate the remarkable career and retirement of a truly exceptional leader, Toni Cockeram. After 23 years of dedicated and loyal service to the Golden Isles Association of Realtors. Toni is leaving behind a remarkable legacy of achievement. With prestigious designations such as Realtor Association Certified Executive, Home with Diversity and e-PRO certifications, Toni's career has been a true example of professional development and education. Ms. Cockeram has held significant leadership positions throughout her career, including six years as the Georgia Association of Realtors Chairman and co-Chairman for the MLS Forum. Her leadership experience and achievements are truly too numerous to list in just one speech, which speaks volumes about who Toni is as a person. I congratulate Toni on her amazing career and on her upcoming retirement.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 75th anniversary of Central Hardware. Central Hardware opened on Norwich Street in downtown Brunswick in 1948 and quickly became known as ``The Store of 10,000 Items.'' The store is still family owned and is managed by Anne Strother and her brother Baxter Shaw. Their father, Jimmy Shaw, always emphasized the importance of quick, friendly customer service and competitive pricing. This is the main reason the store has survived in the face of competition from big-box stores. Shaw taught his children everything about the business, and they continued managing it the way he did. I am proud to say Central Hardware has been an important part of the First District community for 75 years now. Again, I congratulate them on their success, and I know they will continue to bless our community for many more years to come.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today in remembrance of Lanna Aldridge Denison. This July, Lanna passed away following a fight with a sudden illness. She was known for her radiant smile and her love for others. She earned her position as principal of Blackshear Elementary through her years of dedication and hard work, earning many accolades, including being named district coordinator of student learning objectives for Pierce County Schools and director of student achievement in 2017. She transformed her school through her tireless and creative efforts, making it a happy, thriving place for the 800 students who looked up to her. She took every opportunity to put others first and lift their spirits. It was never too early or too late to call her for anything. She truly put everyone else first and many called her their best friend. Ms. Lanna will forever be known as someone who ``loved big'' and her impact will be felt for decades to come. Congratulating Errol Roach on 40 Years of Teaching Music

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Savannah native Errol Roach for hitting a major milestone. This past June he celebrated his 40th anniversary of teaching music. At just 4 years old, Mr. Roach was able to play music by ear, and that began his lifelong passion for music. He attended what is now Savannah State University, where at just 19 years old, he started passing down his love of music through teaching lessons out of his parents' home in Carver Village. Mr. Roach founded the Sound of Joy School of Music in Savannah, Georgia, and was recognized for reaching this milestone of teaching through a proclamation from Savannah Mayor Van Johnson. The slogan for Mr. Roach's school is ``for a world of harmony.'' He hopes his students will continue to pass on the gift of music and harmony for many more generations to come. Madam Speaker, I take this moment to congratulate Mr. Roach on reaching this significant milestone, and I know that he will continue to touch many through his love of music. 75th Anniversary of Central Hardware

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Command Sergeant Major Lindsey Streeter for winning the Military Times Veteran of the Year. Sergeant Major Streeter enlisted in the Army at 17 years old as a 76C, equipment parts and records specialist. Lindsey deployed from Hunter Army Airfield in support of Operation Desert Storm, and when he returned, he was asked to go into the U.S. Army Recruiting Command, taking on the weighty task of recruiting the next generation of soldiers. Over his 31-year career, he would go on to hold leadership positions at every level, culminating with his first assignment as commandant of the Noncommissioned Officer Academy at Fort Stewart. Although he hung up the uniform, his desire to serve others only grew stronger. Once he left the Army, he joined Bank of America as its senior vice president of global military affairs, a position that allows him to help transitioning servicemembers and long-time veterans with financial education and assistance. On top of his professional work, Lindsey started a charity with his late wife, Mary Ann, Quad E, that provides healthcare resources to underserved and low-income families. In 2022, he also purchased the semi-pro basketball team, the Savannah Hurricanes, yet another example of serving our local community. Simply put, his impact on the First District of Georgia is immeasurable. Mr. Speaker, I thank Command Sergeant Major Streeter for his continued service to not only our country, but, also, to our local community.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Judge Melinda Anderson on an incredible career in the First District's Liberty County court system. Judge Anderson's first major achievement of her storied career came when she was appointed ex-officio notary and justice of the peace by the Liberty County Grand Jury in 1979. Then, in 1983 the legislative consolidation of the justice of the peace and small claims court created the magistrate court. Consequently, in 1988, Judge Melinda Anderson was elected as Liberty County Chief Magistrate. Since then, she has served the First District of Georgia well, and her accolades are too numerous for one speech. I congratulate Judge Melinda Anderson on a magnificent career, which included awards for both Magistrate of the Year and Lifetime Achievement. Honoring Griffin Lotson

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Darien City Councilman Griffin Lotson, who is featured in the International African American Museum in Charleston, South Carolina. The Butler Island Plantation where the International African American Museum stands, was where Lotson's ancestors, the Gullah Geechee, were enslaved. Councilman Lotson's family spans seven generations of Gullah Geechee roots. In addition to serving on Darien City Council, he also serves as the vice-chair of the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving and sharing Gullah heritage and culture. Griffin Lotson was also recently promoted to the level of Global and State Goodwill Ambassador. Darien, along with the rest of Georgia's First Congressional District, is honored that Councilman Lotson calls our community home. Congratulating Lindsey Streeter

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Sid Nudelman, a World War II veteran who recently celebrated is 100th birthday. On July 21, 2023, Mr. Nudelman celebrated 100 years of life surrounded by his family and friends in Savannah, Georgia. Mr. Nudelman grew up in Chicago, and was the first of his family, who had recently emigrated from Lithuania, to be born in America. Mr. Nudelman enlisted in the Army on December 8, 1941, where he served as a sergeant in the Army Air Corps. He flew over Normandy on D- Day three times, assisting other members by dropping supplies, paratroopers, and parasails. After retiring from the military, he got a job in a clothing store, and he taught dance lessons at the Fred Astaire Dance Studios in his spare time. In 1948, Sid met the love of his life, Marilyn, at a dance, and they were married shortly thereafter. He and Marilyn had two sons, Lee and Jerry. After her passing, he moved with his sons to Savannah, Georgia, where he still lives today. Mr. Speaker, I thank Sid for his service, and wish him a happy 100th birthday.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on roll call No. 513. Stated against:

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in remembrance of William ``Buck'' Crosby. He served as an educator of chemistry and biology for 40 years at Risley High School and retired as the interim superintendent of Glynn County Schools. He was a member of the YWCA Foundation Board, where he held the position as first vice president of the Golden Isles Arts and Humanities Association. He was the recipient of many awards in his community, including being inducted into the Benedict College Class of 2023 Athletic Hall of Fame. He was also the first and only African-American chairman of the Hospital Authority, and he was the first African American to receive the 10th Bishop of the Diocese of Georgia Bishop's Award. He will be remembered as a teacher, an administrator, a friend to all, and an example for all of us to live up to. I extend my deepest sympathies to his family.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dal Cannady as he steps away from the WTOC news network for a new role as communications director for Bulloch County. Mr. Cannady worked 27 years at WTOC, providing fair and accurate coverage as WTOC's bureau chief. During his time at WTOC, he covered very important stories, such as Fort Stewart/Hinesville helping fight the war on terror, the tomato patch murder in Long County, the Santa Claus mini-mart murder in Toombs County, and many other stories. His work at WTOC was defined by compassion, intelligence, and kindness. WTOC labeled him as the person who knew things before everyone else, the person who knows who to call, and the person who knew how to ask tough questions respectfully. I know WTOC and their viewers will miss Dal's expertise, but we are thrilled to see him move on to a new role in the Bulloch community.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mobilize Recovery Across Georgia for their work during National Recovery Month. Mobilize Recovery Across Georgia is a traveling bus tour that is crossing the State of Georgia throughout the month of September to promote addiction recovery. From 2019 to 2021, drug overdose deaths in Georgia increased by 55.9 percent. Over 800,000 Georgians are living in long-term recovery from a substance use disorder. Georgia is simply a snapshot of a nationwide epidemic that affects countless lives, families, and communities each year. This engaging and uplifting bus tour is designed to bring together Georgia policymakers, local officials, and the 800,000 recovering Georgians. I thank Mobilize Recovery Across Georgia for bringing Georgians together to celebrate recovery and for educating them on what resources are available to them.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate The Crab Shack for being named one of the best seafood restaurants in the United States by the Food Network. On the charming Tybee Island of Georgia sits The Crab Shack, known for its outstanding fresh seafood, river views on the marsh of Chimney Creek, and extensive choice of in-house events. This unique restaurant is a perfect spot for vacationing families with a wide range of food options, activities, and incredible southern hospitality service. Savannah locals, Jack and Belinda Flanigan, developed The Crab Shack from nothing more than a few tables and some friends, and since then it has developed into an iconic river spot for all to enjoy. An alligator enclosure on the property's outer boundaries attracts numerous people who come to feed the young gators. I am proud to celebrate the accomplishments of this local restaurant, which brings many visitors to the beautiful islands of Georgia.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the University of Georgia's Forestry and Natural Resources dean, Dale Greene, for his decades of accomplishments before he retires at the end of the year. Greene has consistently displayed his passion for his students and teaching throughout his time working at UGA, and he has been a key factor in the success of many young leaders. Greene joined the University of Georgia in 1986, and since then has won several awards, including but not limited to, the Herrick Award for Superior Teaching, the Wise Owl Award, the Silver Beaver Award from the Georgia Boy Scouts of America, and the Billy Hudson Distinguished Citizen Award. Greene was also inducted into the Georgia Foresters Hall of Fame in 2007 for his efforts in expanding research and funding to his university. I am proud to commemorate such a hardworking individual that has aided in so many Georgians' postgraduate successes in agriculture. Congratulating The Crab Shack

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in remembrance of Lieutenant Colonel David Leonard Sharpe. At the age of 81, he leaves behind a legacy of bravery, leadership, and selflessness. In 1966, he graduated from the U.S. Army Ranger School and became the first Army Ranger in the Georgia National Guard. He served in the U.S. Army Reserves in the Georgia National Guard for 41 years, from 1960 to 2001. We remember him not only for his military accomplishments, but also for his dedication to his community. He excelled as a mechanical drawing teacher at Glynn Academy high school in Brunswick. In the summers, he worked on commercial and residential planning. I know Mr. Sharpe's legacy will live on in the positive impact he had on his community, and I extend my deepest condolences to his family. Congratulating Dale Greene on his Retirement

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the director of the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers, Dr. Thomas J. Walters, for his 44 years of service to the United States. Director Walters oversaw the training and management program for new law enforcement officers across the country, including those at the Glynco, Georgia, campus in my district. Mr. Walters dedicated his entire four-decade career to defending our national security, serving as a Border Patrol agent, and in various leadership positions. He embodies both patriotism and leadership, and the next generation of officers is undoubtedly grateful for his expertise and the example he set. Director Walters emphasized that serving as the FLETC director was an honor and a career highlight. I know I speak for the whole First District when I say we appreciate his dedication to law enforcement and his service to others. I welcome the new FLETC director, Benjamine ``Carry'' Huffman, and I wish him the best of luck. Remembering Lieutenant Colonel David Leonard Sharpe

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Bill Shipp and recognize his decades of political journalism and service to Georgians. A newsman for the Atlanta Journal Constitution and his own independent publication, Bill Shipp was like the Google of Georgia politics, infinitely knowledgeable about all happenings within the State at a time well before the internet even existed. Throughout his storied career, Shipp used his knowledge to cover everything from the civil rights movement to the space age and the Republican revolution. His ability to keep Georgians informed and hold politicians accountable started at the young age of 20 when he served as managing editor of UGA's Red & Black newspaper. It was in that position as editor that Shipp advocated fearlessly for the integration of UGA's law school, wielding his voice to do good. The loss of Mr. Shipp marks the end of an era, and I will miss his sharp quips, witty remarks, and comprehensive coverage throughout Georgia.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of this bill. I feel like I am repeating myself, but this is yet another bill that would overturn a radical rule from the Biden administration's EPA. The agency's recent actions to provide California a waiver request to strictly regulate vehicle emissions and its proposed emissions standards combine to a de facto EV mandate. Allowing California to ban the sale of internal combustion engines by 2035 will significantly distort the market and manufacturing of vehicles throughout our country. This is entirely inappropriate. The Federal Government is not in the business of dictating consumer choice, especially when it can be detrimental to the lives of Americans from all walks of life. If people want an EV, they can make that choice. Many people have already made that choice, and I suspect more will as these vehicles improve and become more accessible. However, they are not the right choice for all Americans. For most, they are simply out of reach. They are too expensive, even with existing incentives, and do not have the range nor the reliability consumers desire yet. Portions of my district are incredibly rural and simply not practical for EVs. My constituents deserve access to affordable vehicles that can be depended on. Mr. Speaker, I urge passage of this bill.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today in remembrance of Jerry Willis Keith. Jerry was born on March 28, 1937, in Waycross, Georgia, to Warren Lott Keith and Mary Emma Corbett Keith. He was a lifelong member of First Baptist Church of Jesup and a member of the Golden Rulers Sunday School Class. He spent his adult life managing and operating retail grocery stores for several national food chains. There, he was always praised by many local employees as the best boss they ever had. He was a very active member of many community organizations, including the Elks Club, Pine Forest Men's Golf Association, a Jaycee member, and an elite member of the Pond House crew. He was a loving husband; a caring father of 7; a doting grandfather of 15; and great-grandfather of 6. Mr. Keith's legacy will live on in the positive impact that he had on his community. I extend my deepest sympathies to his family.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in remembrance of Jerry Willis Keith. Jerry was born on March 28, 1937, in Waycross to Warren Lott Keith and Mary Emma Corbett Keith. He was a lifelong member of the First Baptist Church of Jesup and a member of the Golden Rulers Sunday school class. He spent his adult life managing and operating retail grocery stores for several national food chains. There, he was always praised by many loyal employees as the best boss they ever had. He was a very active member of many community organizations including the Elks Club, the Pine Forest Men's Golf Association, a Jaycee Member, and an elite member of the Pond House crew. He was a loving husband, a caring father of 7, a doting grandfather of 15, and a great-grandfather of 6. Mr. Keith's legacy will live on in the positive impact that he had on his community, and I extend my deepest sympathies to his family.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in remembrance of James ``Jimmy'' Shaw who passed away on May 6, 2023, at the age of 66. Jimmy was a resident of Brunswick where he spent his entire life. He was a hardworking man who, at the age of 22, started the process of acquiring his father's business, Central Hardware, that celebrated its 75th anniversary in July. Jimmy was an advocate for the Norwich Street Corridor and a respected business leader in downtown Brunswick. Mr. Shaw's legacy will live on through his family, who Jimmy passed Central Hardware down to, just as his father did to him. I know his children will do him proud by keeping Central Hardware a successful business serving the Brunswick community. Jimmy was a great person. He will be remembered by his family but also the community that he had such a positive impact on.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in remembrance of Johnny Gregory Pickren who passed away on July 8, 2023, at the age of 71. Johnny, also known as ``Greg,'' was a resident of Georgia his whole life. He was born in Douglas but moved around to other parts of Georgia such as Darien and Atlanta. Greg's strong passion for music led him to pursue higher education in broadcast journalism, which he worked in for many years before changing paths to become an emergency medical technician in south Georgia. Later, Greg joined the Glynn County Fire Department as a firefighter and EMT where he served the citizens of Glynn County for 28 years before retiring as deputy chief. Greg served his community well. He dedicated his life to saving the lives of others, and his life of service should serve as an example for all of us to follow.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Coach Carl Carter for 40 years of teaching and giving back to his alma mater, Savannah Christian Preparatory School. Carl graduated from Savannah Christian in 1974 and then went on to play football and baseball at Newberry College in South Carolina. In 1983, he began coaching the Raiders baseball team and took over the helm in the 1989 season. Over his 35-year plus career coaching the Raiders, Carl won over 600 games, including the 2017 Georgia State championship. In 2017, he was also inducted into the Greater Savannah Athletic Hall of Fame and the Georgia Dugout Club Hall of Fame. He retired from coaching but did not stop impacting the students of Savannah Christian as a teacher. After his retirement from coaching, Savannah Christian renamed their baseball field the Carl Carter Field. Carl's favorite Bible verse is John 3:16, and he tries his best to inspire his students to live a good and Godly life. I am proud to recognize Coach Carter for his 40 years of service to the families in Savannah and continue to wish him the best for the next 40 years.