Buddy Carter

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to remember and honor one of my pharmacy mentors, Charlie Waldrop of Savannah, Georgia, who sadly passed away on October 20 at the age of 102. A devoted public servant, Charlie was a World War II veteran, a pharmacist, and a friend to all who knew him. Charlie was drafted into World War II at the age of 22. He would go on to serve throughout Europe, successfully attaining the rank of major before finishing his military service in 1946. Discovering his passion for public health, Charlie continued his education at the University of Georgia's College of Pharmacy. Charlie then returned to Savannah, where he would serve his community for the next 40 years as a pharmacist at Crumbley's Pharmacy. Charlie's life was defined by his extraordinary character, and I am grateful for his lifetime of service to Georgia's First District and our great Nation. I am also thankful for the great example he set for me when I was a pharmacy intern working under Charlie. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends, and all who knew him during this most difficult time. congratulating o.c. fowler, jr.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate O.C. Fowler, Jr., of Chatham County for being recognized as Veteran of the Year by the Veterans Council of Chatham County. Georgia's First Congressional District is home to many of our Nation's veterans who put everything on the line to protect our freedom. So being recognized as Veteran of the Year is an incredible honor. Mr. Fowler joined the United States Navy in 1967 and flew over 3,300 flight hours in helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft. After seeing how Vietnam veterans were treated after they returned home, Mr. Fowler dedicated his life to ensure that our servicemembers are unconditionally supported. Among his many lifetime achievements, he helped raise over $35,000 for local charities, including the Chaplain's Fund at Hunter Army Airfield. He is also an active member of the United States Service Organization, the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force, and the Savannah Council of the Navy League. I can't thank Mr. Fowler enough for his outstanding service to our Nation, and I want to congratulate him again on this wonderful accomplishment. recognizing and honoring deborah rodriguez garcia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Deborah Rodriguez Garcia for being named to Georgia Trend's 2021 40 Under 40 class. Deborah graduated from Georgia Southern University with a master's in modern language. This fueled her knowledge and incredible drive, which she is using to make a difference across the globe. Deborah creates educational opportunities for migrant and refugee communities. She focuses on helping children become more resilient through play-based learning. Thanks to Deborah, refugee children in South Asia find comfort in early learning opportunities through a version of Sesame Street in their native clothing and language. Children in Latin America, South Africa, the Middle East, and Asia have benefited immensely from her passion and experience. On behalf of the people of the First Congressional District of Georgia, I congratulate Deborah on her nomination to Georgia Trend's 2021 40 under 40 class and offer my appreciation for her continued service and dedication toward children across the world.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate and celebrate the accomplishments of the Young Harris College men's soccer team. As an alumnus of Young Harris College, I am honored to recognize the hard work and resiliency of the entire staff and team. On October 20, the team rallied together to win the 2021 Peach Belt Conference title. Scoring twice in the last 5 minutes, the Mountain Lions were able to secure a 2-1 win over Georgia Southwestern State University for the title. This victory marks the sixth Peach Belt Conference title in program history. Beyond the soccer field, these student athletes are to be commended for their academic success and commitment to the Young Harris College Community. I, along with the entire Mountain Lion community, will be cheering the team on as they continue their season. Congratulations to the players, coaches, and parents on an incredible season and a well- deserved win. Go Mountain Lions.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize October 2021 as Hindu Heritage Month. Hinduism is the third largest religion in the world. With 3 million devotees in the United States, Georgia's First Congressional District is home to many Hindu followers. The Hindu heritage, culture, and traditions serve as a source of inspiration for the individuals who look to the teachings of Hinduism for guidance. The Hindu-American community has contributed tremendously to our community, enriching the lives of our citizens. As doctors, lawyers, artists, business leaders, and government officials, the Hindu community has contributed immensely to the State of Georgia and our great Nation. This month the Hindu community will celebrate their heritage by focusing on their culture and the traditions rooted in India. Madam Speaker, I call upon my colleagues to join me in recognizing October as Hindu Heritage Month 2021. To those celebrating, I wish all a joyous celebration of Hindu Heritage Month 2021.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize October as American Pharmacists Month. As a pharmacist, I have seen firsthand the impact pharmacists have on people's lives. Throughout this pandemic, pharmacists have helped distribute lifesaving medicines and care to those in need. Pharmacists across our country deserve to be recognized for their service in helping others through these unprecedented times. Every day these pharmacists are providing vaccines for a number of illnesses and carefully counseling patients on prescriptions. As a pharmacist currently serving in Congress, I am proud to recognize the work these individuals are doing every day to serve their local communities around the country. Their commitment to serving their communities is to be admired by all. Mr. Speaker, this month, as well as through the rest of the year, I encourage everyone to visit their pharmacist, ask questions about your prescriptions, and get to know the people who provide your medicine and work to keep you healthy. Remembering the Life of Tony Cope

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to remember and honor Tony Cope of Savannah, Georgia, who sadly passed away on October 8 at the age of 83. Founder and director of the Oatland Island Wildlife Center, Tony dedicated his life to teaching and inspiring the next generation. After attending college, Tony returned to Savannah, where he would serve the community for over 30 years as an author, educator, baseball coach, and an administrator. Beyond the classroom, Tony's life work was sharing his love of Savannah with others. Authoring many books about his beloved hometown, Tony's work touched countless lives. As president of the Savannah Symphony and member of the Rotary Club East, Tony's passion for his community was undeniable. Despite retiring to Ireland, Tony was always first and foremost a Savannah native. I am grateful for Tony's service to Georgia's First Congressional District, and I know his legacy will never be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and all who knew him during this most difficult time. Award-Winning Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate my district director, Brooke Childers, for being named a member of the Georgia Southern University Alumni Association's ``40 under 40'' class of 2021. Brooke graduated from Georgia Southern University in 2005 with a degree in political science. Since graduating, Brooke has served her community with immense passion and dedication. As our district director, Brooke has ensured that the highest levels of constituent outreach and services are met throughout the district. From cofounding a southeastern Rotary E-Club to volunteering across Georgia's First District, Brooke continues to make a lasting impact. Whatever role Brooke has occupied, she has exemplified compassion, determination, and leadership. A model public servant, Brooke is well deserving of this prestigious honor. I am proud to have her on our team, and I am thankful for all that she does for the First District and the entire State of Georgia. I am forever grateful to have her lead our district office and represent us in our community. October is American Pharmacists Month

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport for being awarded the number one airport in the country by 2021 Conde Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards. More than 800,000 readers rated the Savannah airport as the number one destination that they cannot wait to return to. Since opening their doors in 1929, the Savannah airport has helped shape the Savannah community into a world-renowned travel destination. This distinguished award highlights the airport's exemplary customer service and dedication to safety and security. Providing the Savannah community with countless jobs and tremendous service, Savannah's airport has contributed immensely to the economic success of Georgia's First Congressional District. Much like the readers of Conde Nast Traveler, I believe the southern charm of Savannah's airport makes it a truly unforgettable experience. I look forward to the continued success of the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, this afternoon, I am pleased to join many of my colleagues to discuss the crucial need to improve access to critical mental health resources for veterans battling post- traumatic stress disorder, PTSD, and traumatic brain injury, TBI. Georgia's First Congressional District, which I have the honor and privilege of representing, has a strong presence from each branch of the military, with 61,000 Active Duty servicemembers. We are home to four major military bases: Fort Stewart, Hunter Army Airfield, Kings Bay Naval Submarine Base, and Moody Air Force Base. My district is also home to over 50,000 veterans. Approximately 19,000 of these veterans are post-9/11 veterans, 14,000 are Gulf war veterans, 15,000 are Vietnam war veterans, 1,800 are Korean war veterans, and nearly 200 are World War II veterans. Suicide is a major issue, not just within Georgia's First District, but one across our entire Nation as well. The Department of Veterans Affairs reports that an estimated 20 veterans a day commit suicide. Madam Speaker, that is totally unacceptable. Twenty servicemembers, 20 veterans a day committing suicide. It is a sad thought that 20 of our veterans and servicemembers are taking their own lives after returning home. Even worse, a recent study released this past summer by the Costs of War Project found that servicemembers and veterans are four times more likely to have committed suicide than those who lost their lives in combat. This is an epidemic. We are losing more veterans on our home front than we have fighting the global war on terrorism. It affects not only the veterans suffering from mental stress but their families, friends, and loved ones they leave behind. The Department of Veterans Affairs estimates that 11 to 20 percent of veterans who deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom will have PTSD in a given year, compared to veterans of Desert Storm and Vietnam, who will suffer from PTSD at a rate of 12 and 30 percent, respectively. As many as 23 percent of combat veterans who have returned home from Iraq and Afghanistan have come back with a traumatic brain injury. The reason why these statistics are so alarming is the increased risk factors veterans with PTSD and TBI have for committing suicide. Veterans who suffer from PTSD are four times more likely to commit suicide than those veterans without PTSD, while veterans with a TBI are twice as likely to commit suicide than those without one. That is why I stand here today with my colleagues and pledge we work together in passing crucial legislation needed to improve access to critical mental health resources for our veterans. One critical piece of legislation that I was proud to cosponsor is H.R. 1476, the PFC Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Program Act, which has been offered by my friend and colleague, Representative Lee Zeldin. This bill will expand veteran peer-to-peer support programs nationally and help veterans suffering from PTSD and TBI. It is imperative that veterans receive the care they need and to prevent this ongoing crisis. Over 60 percent of the veterans that died by suicide in 2018 did not visit the VA in the year of their death or the previous year. Again, over 60 percent of the veterans that died by suicide in 2018 did not visit the VA in the year of their death or the previous year. While the VA offers different types of treatment for veterans who are battling with PTSD and TBI, we need to ensure that veterans are aware of the programs available to them and remind them that they are not alone. That is also why earlier this month I cosigned a letter led by my friend Representative David Joyce to Secretary McDonough. This letter urged the VA to develop a comprehensive plan to connect veterans of the war in Afghanistan and the global war on terrorism to essential VA benefits and services as soon as possible. As I mentioned, Georgia's First Congressional District is home to a large military and veteran community. We have several veteran nonprofit organizations who focus on providing peer-to-peer support for veterans who suffer from PTSD. The PFC Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Program Act will ensure that all veterans have access to a safe and confidential peer-to-peer platform. I wholeheartedly believe this will help lower the number of veterans who commit suicide in our country each day. One death is too many. Madam Speaker, I thank my friend from New York for organizing this today. His efforts are appreciated, they are recognized, and we thank him for that.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Atlanta Braves for advancing to the World Series for the first time since 1999. In a season plagued by injuries, what the Braves have accomplished is nothing short of remarkable. On August 1, the Braves had a losing record, and things were looking grim. Through much adversity, the Braves relied on some unlikely stars to shine in the postseason during the month of Joctober. What this team has achieved is nothing short of special, and we hope to continue shocking the world. After caving to the lies of the Democrats, Major League Baseball moved the All-Star game out of Atlanta, depriving the community of hundreds of millions of dollars. Well, you may be able to move the All- Star game, but you can't move the World Series, and Truist Park is going to be electric. In addition to the players, I would also like to congratulate manager Brian Snitker and the rest of the coaching staff for the tremendous job they did in assembling and guiding this team to the 2021 World Series. Go Braves.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to remember and honor Darien Police Officer David Horton of Ludowici, Georgia, who sadly passed away at the age of 45. David was a respected and honored member of his community. After graduating from law enforcement training in 2014, he began his career with the Long County Sheriff's Office. David had a heart for service and was awarded numerous accolades during his time in law enforcement. As an agency DUI Hero award winner, David was the definition of protect and serve. He was not only a dedicated law enforcement officer but also a devoted father and citizen who was loved and respected by many. I am thankful for David's lifetime of service and commitment to his community. I know his legacy will be forever treasured. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and all who knew him during this most difficult time.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers' Peace Officers Memorial Day Ceremony. Each year, the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers engrave the names of graduates who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty during the previous year. This ceremony commemorates another year that has been distinguished by extraordinary law enforcement achievements but, unfortunately, has been marred by tragedy and personal loss. We must always remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting and serving our community. Sadly, a total of 263 FLETC graduates have paid the ultimate sacrifice since 1970. Tragically, we have had to add another 22 names for last year alone. Behind each and every one of these names there is a son, a daughter, a husband, a mother, or a relative who misses their loved one. To all of our police officers and Federal law enforcement officials, thank you for your service to our communities and God bless you. I hope that my colleagues will take some time to thank these courageous individuals who work to keep us all safe. Remembering and Honoring Ann Ernst

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize this week as National Pharmacy Week. Today we honor pharmacists and technicians across the Nation. During this week, I would like to recognize all pharmacists across the United States who ensure that Americans have access to important and often lifesaving medications. Every day pharmacists are directly involved in patient care, and pharmacists are the most accessible healthcare professionals in the country. Ninety-five percent of Americans live within five miles of a pharmacy. From administering flu shots to COVID-19 vaccines, pharmacists are a vital resource in our communities, and they will continue to play an active role in combating the virus. Because of their hard work, lives will be saved. Madam Speaker, I encourage everyone to get to know their pharmacists and to thank them for the work that they do. As a pharmacist currently serving in Congress, I thank all pharmacists around the world. We can look forward to a brighter future because of them. Remembering and Honoring Dr. James Polk ``Jay'' Brinson, III

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to remember and honor former Wayne County superintendent, principal, and coach, Dr. Jay Brinson, who sadly passed away at the age of 51. Jay was proud to be a graduate of the Wayne County School System and was a devoted Yellow Jacket throughout his life. After graduating from Wayne County High School in 1988, he would return to the school for a 29-year career. During this time, he was a coach, a teacher, and an administrator with a personal mission to give back to a community that he believed invested so much in him. He retired as superintendent of Wayne County schools in March, leaving a lasting impact on his students. Above all, Jay was a man of dignity who led by example. I am thankful for Jay's service to Georgia's First Congressional District, and I know his legacy will remain. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and all who knew him during this most difficult time.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to remember and honor Ann Ernst of Savannah, Georgia, who sadly passed away on October 5 at the age of 93. Ann attended Chatham County public schools and Armstrong Junior College and graduated from Valdosta State University with a degree in biology. Following graduation, she worked at a research lab studying malaria transmission and control. Throughout her life, she was involved in teaching and inspiring the Savannah community. She served as curriculum director at Hancock Day School and taught children with learning disabilities at the Royce Learning Center. Cherished by the Savannah community for her contagious laughter and love of life, Ann's immense impact was felt by everyone she knew. I am thankful for Ann's lifetime of service, and I know her legacy will be forever treasured. My thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends, and all who knew her during this most difficult time. Recognizing National Pharmacy Week

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, the massive reconciliation package that the House has been considering aims to fundamentally change our country. Normally, an effort this huge is considered over months and years instead of the expedited timeline we are on now. That is why I am so glad my colleagues and I are taking this time to highlight how they intend to dramatically change our country and the consequences it will have. Today, we focus on perhaps the most immediate problem we are facing: illegal immigration. This is happening as we speak. There were over 208,000 border apprehensions in August, a 317 percent increase from the previous year. August was the second straight month with over 200,000 apprehensions. What is worse, this is not a new thing. To quote The Washington Post, of all places, ``Illegal crossings began rising last year but skyrocketed in the months after President Biden took office.'' There have been over 1.3 million illegal border crossings under President Biden. The Department of Homeland Security warns us to be prepared for, next month, the possibility of 350,000 to 400,000 illegal border apprehensions in October. The United States has never--never--recorded that number of illegal border apprehensions in a single month. So we now know that this has been a problem in the past. It is still a problem now. And it will even be worse in the future. And what are Democrats doing about it since they are in control? The Democrats have included a plan to grant amnesty for around eight million illegal immigrants at a cost of $100 billion over the next 10 years. All of that money to granting amnesty instead of securing our border. I am a pharmacist by trade, so believe me when I say that the phrase ``an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure'' is an understatement here. We are already paying the price for illegal immigration that is harming our citizens. Over 6,000 pounds of deadly fentanyl has been seized at the southern border since February, enough to kill every American four times over. That is dangerous. That is ludicrous. It is ridiculous. At least 160,000 illegal immigrants have been released in the U.S., often with little supervision by the Biden administration since March. My colleagues on the other side of the aisle truly do not recognize what is happening in our country and the world. We need leadership to navigate these serious issues we face. Folks, I have been to the border several times, and I can tell you it is a disaster and a tragedy. Joe Biden and Kamala Harris simply do not understand the problem or how to fix it. However, I know that if Joe Biden and Kamala Harris wanted to understand the cause of the crisis at the border, they need look no further than the nearest mirror. Every State has become a border State, and rather than support our Border Patrol agents, the Biden administration has neglected them and left our communities in danger. These people face threats in their lives, abuse and manipulation from cartels and worse. These people have been inundated with illegal aliens who have come across this border. It is irresponsible to not only neglect the safety of Americans, but this is a tragedy for those being misled that it is okay to come to America illegally. We cannot in good conscience continue policies that cause this much harm and damage to everyone involved. Let's stop this insanity.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to remember and honor Bobby Zarem of Savannah, Georgia, who, sadly, passed away on September 26 at the age of 84. A world-renowned publicist and the creator of many internationally recognized media campaigns, Bobby's life's work put a smile on many people's faces. He began his career in New York City, where he actively promoted some of America's most talented individuals. Notably recognized for his ``I Love New York'' campaign, Bobby's work touched countless lives. While his work took him around the world, Bobby's deep love for Savannah was undeniable. From contributions to the Savannah Film Festival to cofounding the Free Southern Theater, Bobby was a passionate advocate for the arts in the Savannah community. I am thankful for Bobby's service to Georgia's First Congressional District, and I know his legacy will remain. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and all who knew him during this most difficult time.

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. 4028. This is legislation that I was proud to originally cosponsor with my good friend, the gentleman from Missouri (Mr. Long). Madam Speaker, my colleagues on this side of the aisle are leading to secure our communications technology and supply chains with proposals like this, which would create a whole-of-government strategy. We need to make sure information technology supply chains are secure, and we need to know how dependent U.S. information and communications technology companies are on foreign countries like China. To accomplish this goal, we must secure our communications supply chain by enhancing communication between the government and private sector on cybersecurity literacy and educating the public on cyber hygiene practices. We know that investment in innovation and preparation for the security challenges of tomorrow's technologies are critical. Our Nation has, unfortunately, seen firsthand the disruption caused by attacks on American supply chains, critical infrastructure, and government computer systems in recent years. That is why H.R. 4028 is so important. This legislation would direct the National Telecommunications and Information Administration to not just conduct a study but would require it to come up with a real solution to securing this critical supply chain. This legislation would not only identify the risk but also develop a strategy to secure supply chains for information and communications technology. We must take our communications and technology supply chain seriously, and this legislation would do just that. Madam Speaker, I urge swift passage of H.R. 4028.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Jacob Davis, Jr., of Pierce County, Georgia, for his 100th birthday on October 6. A lifelong resident of Georgia's First Congressional District, Jacob has devoted his life to his community and his country. He was drafted into the United States Navy in 1943 and was stationed in Great Lakes, Illinois. He served as a fireman on an aircraft carrier that performed test flights for the military. After being discharged from the military in December 1945, Jacob returned to his family farm and married the love of his life, Jenny Henderson. Over Jacob's lifetime of farming, he has accumulated over 1,000 acres of farmland. To this day, he continues his work on his pecan orchard. If the Sun is shining, Jacob can be found outside working. Although he has worked hard his entire life, Jacob was, and continues to be, a devoted and loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. I am proud to rise today to recognize Jacob's birthday and his lifetime of service and leadership to Georgia's First Congressional District.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the resiliency and the courage of Julian Stanford. Julian is a 17-year-old high school student who was recently involved in a life-changing accident. While driving home after work on August 21, Julian attempted to avoid an oncoming vehicle, resulting in paralyzing injuries. Julian was transferred to the Shepherd Center in Atlanta, Georgia, where his treatment has been centered around healing and prayer. Prior to his accident, Julian was an honor roll student and an active leader in his high school's Republican Party. Known throughout his community for his laughter and his love of music, Julian's passion for life is truly inspiring. Despite the extent of his injuries, Julian continues to fight daily with his mom by his side. Julian is a living miracle whose determination is remarkable. I am praying for Julian and his family, that he makes a full recovery, and I know he will go on to achieve great things. Julian, we love you and you inspire us. Keep up the good fight. Recognizing National Suicide Prevention Month

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize September as National Suicide Prevention Month. This important month is an opportunity to remember those who have lost their lives to suicide and share resources to fight the stigma surrounding mental health challenges. As the tenth leading cause of death in the United States, suicide affects Americans from all walks of life. The challenges surrounding mental health can be complex, but we owe it to our constituents to utilize every resource to better understand the factors contributing to suicide. A critical part in suicide prevention is equipping ourselves and our communities with the resources needed to fight this tragic occurrence. From engaging in open conversations about mental health to checking on our neighbor, there are steps we can all take to help those in crisis. September may be Suicide Prevention Month, but community engagement and prevention efforts should be maintained year-round. I encourage everyone to educate themselves on the warning signs of suicide, as it could save a life. Remembering Don and Margie Varnadoe

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to remember and honor Don and Margie Varnadoe of Glynn County, Georgia, who tragically passed away on September 25. Don and Margie were aboard Amtrak's Empire Builder train when it derailed near Joplin, Montana. Don and Margie were known throughout the community for their service to the Glynn County school system. Margie was a teacher, a principal, a personnel director, and assistant superintendent. She was loved by her students and peers for her dedication to educating our future generations. Don was a retired St. Simons real estate agent and school board member for four years. During his term, Don focused on improving the school system so that all students in Glynn County could have a positive learning experience. Both cared immensely for their community, and I am thankful for Don and Margie's impact on Georgia's First Congressional District. Their irreplaceable presence will be missed by all.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to support legislation that I, along with Representative Jim Hagedorn, are introducing to ask the House of Representatives to denounce Major League Baseball's actions in closing a plant in Caledonia, Minnesota, and moving manufacturing jobs to communist China. For more than two decades, Miken Sports has been located in the Caledonia community. As an integral small business, Miken employs nearly 150 hardworking Americans. This decision to close the plant and move jobs to China directly defies Major League Baseball's position as America's pastime. There is nothing American about outsourcing jobs to China, removing income from American workers, and destroying a community's economy. We know that very well in Atlanta, Georgia. Major League Baseball should be an unquestionable supporter of American jobs. The League's decision to close the plant and move those jobs to China is incredibly disheartening. America's pastime should be supported by American-made products and jobs. Mr. Speaker, I urge Major League Baseball to live up to its responsibility to the American people by reversing this decision to keep these jobs at home and to purchase American-made products, and I ask my colleagues for their support.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Okefenokee Swamp Park. The Okefenokee Swamp Park opened their doors 75 years ago. Since then, people from across the world have visited one of Georgia's most desirable destinations. Each year, over 500,000 people visit the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge. As one of the largest intact freshwater wetlands in North America, the Okefenokee is home to various threatened and endangered species. More than 600 plant species have been identified at the Okefenokee. This anniversary is not only a celebration of 75 years of preserving history and wildlife but also as a beacon of what is to come in the next 75 years. I, along with the First District of Georgia, thank the staff at Okefenokee Swamp Park for their stewardship of this beautiful park. I am proud to represent parts of the Okefenokee, and I am excited for the future.