Buddy Carter

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Adams Drugstore in Cordele, Georgia, which is celebrating its 75th anniversary. As a pharmacist myself, I am very proud to recognize this thriving small business. Adams Drugstore is a full-service pharmacy that has proudly served the Cordele and Crisp County community for decades and plans to continue to do so for many more. With thousands of satisfied patients, their motto, Experience the Difference, truly embodies the service they provide to the community. Local pharmacies like Adams Drugstore are the cornerstone of their communities, providing not just medications but also trusted care, personal relationships, and essential access to healthcare for families in rural areas like so many in Georgia. Congratulations to Adams Drugstore for this momentous accomplishment. Cordele, Georgia, is truly blessed to have such a dedicated small business serving its pharmaceutical needs. Honoring Emory University Nursing

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Emory University's Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing. Their master's degree program has now been ranked number one in the Nation for 4 straight years by the U.S. News & World Report ranking. Emory's bachelor and doctoral programs have also earned second in the Nation, having maintained a top 10 placement over the last several years across a ranking of over 200 schools. The Woodruff School of Nursing maintains a large research program, collaborating with several Atlanta area hospitals to further this effort. The quality of Emory's nursing programs prepares students for outstanding service to our community, and we are all proud of their momentous accomplishment. Through their work, they helped Georgians across the State each day, and we are very thankful for that. Honoring the Legacy of William Ligon III

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory and the legacy of William Ligon III. Will tragically passed on May 3 after a life full of compassion and service to others. I had the pleasure of serving in the Georgia State Senate with his father, William Ligon. His father was and continues to be a dedicated public servant, showing his passion for serving others every day, and I am confident that Will embodied that very same spirit. Will recently graduated from Georgia Southern University with a bachelor of science degree in construction management and worked at Richard Best Construction in South Carolina. Will was a bright young man with a kind heart, a strong faith, and a deep love for his family, his friends, and the outdoors. He had his whole life ahead of him, and his impact on those around him was already so clear. We are praying for his wife, Sawyer; his parents, Kim and William; his grandparents; and the entire Ligon family during this incredibly difficult time. May God surround them with His peace, His comfort, and His strength in the days ahead. recognizing the savannah country day school

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Savannah Country Day School faculty, staff, and parents' association. These individuals have put in countless hours, and in some cases decades, of service to their school and community, supporting students and giving them opportunities to learn and grow. Teachers and staff retiring this year have been a steady presence in students' lives, making Savannah Country Day School feel like home. I admire these educators for their service to their students, their school, and their community, and I thank them. recognizing the port of brunswick

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Port of Brunswick for their second year in a row as the busiest automotive port in the country. In 2025, the port transported 779,000 vehicles, which was 50,000 more than the Port of Baltimore, in second place. The long-term growth of this port has been driven by development from the Georgia Ports Authority, a large contributor to southeast Georgia's economy. With the opening of its fourth berth in November 2027, the Port of Brunswick's first place spot will be cemented throughout the country and become a global hub for roll-on/roll-off shipping. I congratulate the Port of Brunswick on this achievement and look forward to their future success. honoring the life of bobby cox

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Georgia baseball icon Bobby Cox. For generations of Braves fans across Georgia and the Nation, Bobby Cox was more than a Hall of Fame manager. He was the heart of an era that defined Atlanta baseball. Over a legendary career, Bobby led the Braves to 14 consecutive divisional titles, 5 National League pennants, and a World Series championship in 1995. His 2,504 career wins rank among the greatest in Major League Baseball history. Beyond the wins and championships, Bobby Cox was respected for the way he led with toughness, loyalty, humility, and an unwavering belief in his players. He helped build one of the greatest dynasties baseball has ever seen and inspired countless players, coaches, and fans along the way. In Georgia, Bobby Cox was family. As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate an extraordinary life and legacy that will forever be woven into the story of the Atlanta Braves and our great State. We are praying for his wife, Pam, and his children, grandchildren, friends, former players, and all who loved him. May he rest in peace. honoring mack jackson

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mack Jackson, who announced his retirement from the Georgia House of Representatives after 18 years of service. Representative Jackson was first inspired to serve others by John F. Kennedy's famous words: ``Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country.'' To do this, Representative Jackson has served on eight legislative committees, always prioritizing the needs of rural communities. On the Health Committee, he worked to eradicate healthcare deserts in rural communities by incentivizing students to work in them. As chair of the Rural Development Committee, he passed legislation to bring the same economic development prosperity that metro areas enjoy to rural communities. Representative Jackson is also involved with the Georgia Justice Project where he works to give people opportunities for a second chance. I thank Representative Jackson for his service and wish him the best in this next chapter of his life. Recognizing Dr. Joshua Howard

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and to congratulate Dr. Joshua Howard on his retirement after decades of dedicated service to the people of southeast Georgia. As principal of Charlton County High School, CTAE director, adjunct professor at Valdosta State University, and mentor to countless students and educators, he has helped shape generations of young Georgians. Before his years in education, he also served as a forestry aide and wildlife firefighter with the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, demonstrating early on his commitment to protecting one of our Nation's greatest natural treasures. Today, Dr. Howard continues that mission as president of the Friends of the Okefenokee Wildlife Refuge, where he has been a strong advocate for conservation, education, and the preservation of the Okefenokee Swamp for future generations. On behalf of Georgia's First Congressional District, I thank Dr. Joshua Howard for his remarkable service and wish him, his family, and all those who have worked alongside him the very best in this next chapter. May God bless him, and may God continue to bless the great State of Georgia. Brian Patterson Honored With Carnegie Medal of Heroism

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to thank Brian Patterson who was recently honored with the Carnegie Medal of Heroism for his courageous acts in a 2022 car crash. Brian is a retired soldier and LifeStar mechanic. On July 8, 2022, while driving down the highway in Midway, Georgia, Brian saw something that would change his life. A car carrying Christina Tschantz and her 11-year-old daughter Alexa collided with a dump truck and struck its fuel tank. Mr. Patterson quickly pulled both Christina and Alexa safely out of the wreckage. Because of his courageous action, lives were saved that very day. Mr. Patterson is one of only 18 people in the U.S. and Canada to receive the Carnegie Medal for Heroism in 2026. I thank Brian for his lifesaving action. Honoring Mark Adamchik

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mark Adamchik, who announced that he will retire from the position of FLETC Assistant Director for The National Capital Region Training Operations Directorate on May 31. Mark Adamchik has faithfully served in Federal law enforcement for over 26 years. He oversees coordination with the Department of Homeland Security, Congress, and law enforcement partners, while leading FLETC's training operations in Cheltenham, Maryland, and the international training division. Before joining FLETC, Mark Adamchik was deputy chief of the United States Park Police field operations division, where he directed law enforcement operations for major national events, including Presidential inaugurations, Independence Day celebrations, and more. Throughout his USPP career, Mark Adamchik held numerous leadership positions, including SWAT team member, Homeland Security division commander, operations commander for The National Mall, and commander of special forces, icon protection, and workforce development. Madam Speaker, I thank Mark Adamchik for his service and wish him the best in the next chapter of his life. 48th IBCT Soldiers Named Georgia Army National Guard 2026 State Best Warrior Winners

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate members of the Georgia Army National Guard who recently were honored at the 2026 State Best Warrior Competition. The week-long competition took place at the Cumming Readiness Center in Cumming, Georgia; Catoosa Volunteer Training Site in Ringgold, Georgia; and Clark Range Complex, Anniston, Alabama. U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Sean Hayes, representing the Macon-based 48th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, was named Noncommissioned Officer of the Year, and U.S. Army Specialist Mitchell Oneal representing the Macon-based 48th Infantry Brigade Combat Team earned the title of Soldier of the Year. These prestigious honors come from many long hours of training and dedication to keeping our Nation safe. It is my honor to congratulate these remarkable National Guardsmen. Recognizing Islands High School Boys' Soccer Team

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Islands High School boys' soccer team. The Islands boys' soccer team won the State championship game on Tuesday night. The team ended the first half with 4 points and claimed the championship title by ending the game 6-0, giving them an amazing season of 22-2 overall. No team scored a goal during the Sharks entire postseason. The Sharks made school history by claiming the Islands' first State championship in any sport. They are also the first Savannah public school to win a boys' soccer State championship. An accomplishment like this deserves recognition from their community and their classmates. The boys should be proud of their victory and remember the hard work and determination that made it possible. Go Sharks. Honoring Anderson ``Chase'' Childers

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and the heroic sacrifice of Anderson ``Chase'' Childers. Chase, a former Baltimore Orioles baseball player, police officer, and a devoted father, gave his life saving others. Chase acted with extraordinary courage to save a family of five swimmers who were caught in a rip current off a South Carolina beach. He risked his life for strangers, selflessly putting their safety above his own. Tragically, Chase was caught in the current and did not survive. Cobb County Police Department said that this embodied the same bravery and commitment he showed every day as an officer. While Chase is mourned by his entire community, the weight of Chase's death is felt most heavily by his wife and three children, even those who never met Chase can be inspired by his life. We should all honor Chase as the highest standard of heroism, courage, and sacrifice. Honoring the Life of L. David Sparks

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. David Sparks who unexpectedly passed away on May 9 at the age of 82. Mr. Sparks served as the board chairman of Precision Health Holding and the past CEO of PCCA. He was a true visionary of the compounding pharmacy industry. Dave quickly became a well-respected leader in the pharmacy industry who led a life of integrity, generosity, and a genuine passion for those around him. His vision for his company allowed the organization to strengthen with a capable board staff deeply experienced executives. The growth of PCCA is a credit to Mr. Sparks' servant leadership. My heart goes out to Dave's family and his loved ones as they grieve his passing. Sarah Mitchell Honored as Living Kidney Donor

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Sarah Mitchell, a member of the Piedmont Hospital Home Help team who recently became a living kidney donor. In early 2025, Sarah noticed a Facebook acquaintance in Georgia who needed a transplant. However, after many tests, she found out that she was not a match for this patient. Last October, Ms. Mitchell decided to continue her journey as an organ donor when she underwent surgery and then donated her kidney to a California patient in need of a transplant. Now, Sarah has returned to her daily life where she continues to advocate for organ transplant awareness as she hopes her story will inspire others to become donors. Sarah embodies what it truly means to graciously serve others in a large capacity. Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I move that the House do now adjourn.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Cohen and Collins Trolio, who helped the Ole Miss Rebels win the SEC Men's Golf Championship in Sea Island, Georgia. Cohen finished third in the stroke play championships, and Collins won all matches, beating the number one amateur in the world, Jackson Koivun of Auburn University. The outstanding performance from these young men helped Ole Miss secure a semifinal victory over the Tigers and defeating the Florida Gators 4-1. Cohen, a senior, and Collins, a junior, have distinguished themselves on the course as high school and college players with solid scoring averages. I would like to congratulate them on their outstanding performance in their SEC championship match.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Adams Drugstore in Cordele, Georgia, which is celebrating its 75th anniversary. As a pharmacist myself, I am very proud to recognize this thriving small business. Adams Drugstore is a full-service pharmacy that has proudly served the Cordele and Crisp County community for decades and plans to continue to do so for many more. With thousands of satisfied patients, their motto, ``experience the difference,'' truly embodies the service they provide to the community. Local pharmacies like Adams Drugstore are a cornerstone of their communities, providing not just medications but also trusted care, personal relationships, and essential access to healthcare for families in rural areas like so many in Georgia. Congratulations to Adams Drugstore for this momentous accomplishment. Cordele, Georgia, is truly blessed to have such a dedicated small business serving its pharmaceutical needs.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Ladies of Frederica on capturing the Sixth Annual Memorial Cup. This is their first title cup in this rotating interclub competition, defeating the Ocean Forest and Sea Island Golf Clubs. In a nerve-racking Net Stableford finish, Frederica posted 493 points, winning over Ocean Forest by just 3 points, and Sea Island by 30. What an incredible display of skill, heart, and teamwork. Led by captains Bev and Linda, the championship squad featured Carol, Becky, Kelly, Sarah, Trace, Tracey, Christine, Kathy, Collette, Amy, Fran, Jane, Dawn, Carolyn, Tracy, and Molly. Special thanks to Coaches VJ Trolio, Nick Osterman, and Joey Garber for their dedication in preparing this outstanding team. In a game that rewards precision and poise, these women showed both and brought home the cup to Frederica. Well done, ladies.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 122.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the FIRE Act. This bill ensures that actions taken to prevent wildfires, such as prescribed burns, are not used to penalize a State when determining nonattainment. Under the FIRE Act, States will no longer miss nonattainment status solely for trying to reduce the impact of wildfires through wildfire mitigation activities. Nonattainment status has significant consequences. New or expanding businesses in the State would face more restrictions, tougher permitting, and expensive pollution control measures that would cause economic development to move to States without nonattainment status. Since EPA allowed prescribed burns to qualify for exceptional events, only one prescribed fire has been granted an exceptional events exemption. These concerns aren't hypothetical. They are measurable and prevent States from engaging in wildfire mitigation. This is the epitome of commonsense legislation. Why should American businesses and workers be penalized for efforts to reduce air pollution? Again, I ask you: Why should American businesses and workers be penalized for efforts to reduce air pollution? A recent study found that wildfires are reversing the progress made in air quality by this country over the last 40 years. Prescribed burns produce only a tenth of the PM 2.5 produced by wildfires. Prescribed or controlled burns are our greatest and most effective tool for preventing wildfires. By discouraging wildfire mitigation, this outdated provision in the Clean Air Act undermines efforts to improve air quality. Hopefully, improving air quality and reducing the devastating impact of wildfires is more important to the Members of this Chamber than thwarting Congress' efforts to make necessary updates to outdated provisions of the Clean Air Act. Legislation like the FIRE Act and my bill, the CLEAR Act, will modernize the Clean Air Act to work in the 21st century, protecting us from pollution without strangling business development and job creation. Mr. Speaker, I thank my friend Representative Evans for introducing this bill, and I urge its immediate adoption.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman for yielding. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of my bill, H.R. 2493, the Improving Care in Rural America Reauthorization Act of 2025, a bipartisan bill that ensures Americans, no matter where they live, have access to quality healthcare. Let me be clear, healthcare outcomes should not depend on your ZIP Code. Today, for millions of Americans living in rural communities, that is exactly the reality. Rural residents face serious barriers to care: provider shortages, long travel distances, hospital closures, and limited access to specialists. The consequences are real. Rural Americans experience a 43-percent higher mortality rate compared to those in urban and suburban areas. That is simply unacceptable. This legislation is about addressing those disparities head-on. The Improving Care in Rural America Reauthorization Act builds on improving programs that are already making a difference in communities across the country. Specifically, this bill reauthorizes critical rural health grant programs through 2030, programs that expand access to care, improve care coordination, strengthen rural health networks, and support quality improvement for providers. These are not just theoretical ideas. They are programs with a track record of success. In fact, more than 85 percent of grant recipients have demonstrated measurable improvements in clinical outcomes, including better control of chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension. That means healthier patients, stronger communities, and lower costs. One of the most important aspects of this bill is that it provides community-driven solutions. We are not imposing a one-size-fits-all approach from Washington. Instead, we are empowering local providers, local leaders, and local communities to identify their own needs and build solutions that work for them. The bill ensures that rural communities are directly involved in planning and implementing these programs so that care is tailored, targeted, and effective. That is how you get results. As a pharmacist, I have seen firsthand how critical access to care is, especially in rural areas where providers are already stretched thin. This legislation also helps to expand telehealth services so patients can access care without traveling hours, improve coordination between providers to reduce gaps in care, and strengthen small clinics and hospitals that are often the backbone of rural communities. When a rural hospital closes, it is not just the loss of healthcare. It is a loss of jobs, a loss of economic stability, and a loss of security for the entire community. At the end of the day, this bill is about fairness. It is about making sure that whether you live in a big city or a small town, you have access to the care you need. It is about strengthening our rural communities, improving health outcomes, and ensuring that no American is left behind. We have an opportunity today to build on successful programs, deliver real results, and make a meaningful difference in people's lives. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this legislation.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Private Bennett Waters, a serviceman who tragically died as a prisoner of war during World War II. Private Waters was a southeast Georgia serviceman whose remains were recently identified by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency. A member of the Army Air Force 17th Bombardment Squadron, 27th Bombardment Group, Private Waters was stationed in the Philippines. He was taken prisoner during the Japanese invasion of the Philippines in April of 1942 and remained a POW until his death in 1944. He is forever memorialized on the Walls of the Missing at the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial. His remains will now be transferred from the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Honolulu to his final resting place among family in Georgia. We thank Private Waters for his bravery, service, and sacrifice to our Nation 82 years ago. St. Marys Submarine Museum

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize 30th anniversary of St. Marys Submarine Museum in St. Marys, Georgia. The museum is the largest of its kind in the South and the fifth largest in the country, with nearly 5,000 square feet of exhibit. After being converted from an old movie theater, St. Marys opened its doors on March 30, 1996, receiving thousands of visitors since. It is here visitors get the opportunity to see, enjoy, and learn about submarines and their artifacts. Thousands of these artifacts, some older than 100 years, are on display, including patrol reports, uniforms, and battle flags. Mr. Speaker, you can even operate a real submarine periscope to view the beautiful St. Marys River. Former submariner and current executive director, Keith Forest Post, has been dedicated to preserving submarine history and artifacts at the museum since 2010. The historical importance of this museum cannot be understated. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate St. Marys Submarine Museum on this fantastic accomplishment and wish them 30 more years of success. Honoring Thomas ``Tom'' Draffin

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Tom Draffin for his work as the president and CEO of the McIntosh County Industrial Development Authority. Tom is retiring after several years dedicated to the growth and development of McIntosh County. During his tenure, he has led a number of major initiatives promoting the county's hospitality, tourism, and seafood industries. He is also a founding member of the Tri-95 Georgia Joint Development Authority, where he also serves on the board of directors. Tom's work on the Tri-95 and McIntosh County Development Authorities is critical to the development of southeast Georgia. I thank him for all the work he has done over the years to grow our region. He has been a close friend to me over the years, and his retirement will be a significant loss for the community. Honoring Cecily Hill