Buddy Carter

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of World War II veteran, Howard Thomas Young, who peacefully passed away March 9, 2026, at the age of 101. Mr. Young was born in Lake Charles, Louisiana, in 1925, being the youngest of four boys. After graduating from high school at just 17 years old, Howard bravely enlisted in the United States Navy at the height of the Second World War. He was deployed in the South Pacific under 5-star Admiral Chester Nimitz and heroically fought for our country against the perils of fascism. After the war, Mr. Young received a college education and began working for Owens-Illinois. After 35 years, Mr. Young decided to retire in Savannah, Georgia, where he worked tirelessly in volunteer services for our community, becoming an active member of many charitable organizations. Howard Young was a dedicated patriot who served with unwavering courage and commitment. We thank him for his service to our country and to our community.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Joel Leone, who was recently named as the chief operating officer at Memorial Health University Medical Center. This is a key leadership addition in Savannah's healthcare community, with Memorial Health being a vital bed facility serving coastal Georgia. A seasoned hospital administrator from HCA Healthcare, Mr. Leone most recently served as COO at Florida Gulf Coast Hospital, overseeing operations and service lines like orthopedics, cardiac care, and robotics. Earlier at HCA Florida Ocala Hospital, he drove $65 million in facility improvements and earned Robotic Surgery Center of Excellence status. With degrees from Florida State and the University of Florida, plus executive training, Mr. Leone brings fresh expertise to guide daily hospital operations. This appointment signals a continued commitment to excellence in our region's premier medical center. I congratulate Joel Leone and wish him success leading Memorial Health forward.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Georgia Governor Brian Kemp for being recently recognized by the Safari Club International as their 2026 Governor of the Year. Governor Kemp has excelled in his efforts to support wildlife conservation, sportsmen's rights, and public access to hunting lands. Governor Kemp has a long history of fighting for and protecting Georgians' right to hunt and their Second Amendment rights. His administration has prioritized funding for the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, which has supported wildlife habitat and conservation initiatives in the acquisition of high-value game lands. On a personal note, knowing Governor Kemp as I do, I can assure my colleagues very few people love the outdoors and love hunting as much as he does. Mr. Speaker, we thank Governor Kemp for prioritizing these important freedoms and congratulate him on being awarded the 2026 SCI Governor of the Year.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Michael Proctor, who, sadly, passed away on February 12 at the age of 58. Michael, a Georgia native, attended Worth County High School, where he first showcased his natural athletic ability. He started for the Murray State Racers at Murray State University as quarterback, where he was honored with the nickname ``The General.'' During this time, he earned All-Ohio Valley Conference honors and OVC Offensive Player of the Year, and he set the Murray State record in career yards. He was inducted into the Murray State University Athletic Hall of Fame in 2000, with his No. 11 being retired. After college, Proctor played briefly for the New England Patriots, the Cleveland Browns, the World League of American Football, and the Canadian Football League. He was an accomplished football player with incredible talent and determination. Proctor's journey from small-town Georgia to the football spotlight is truly inspirational. May he rest in peace, and his legacy live on. Honoring Scott Morrison

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to recognize Pastor Scott Morrison. He serves as discipleship pastor at the First Baptist Church of Vidalia, Georgia. Pastor Morrison has a legacy of leadership with over 25 years of experience. In 2001, he became the minister of students, making discipleship a priority for the youth of the church. Several of his students entered the ministry and later became missionaries themselves. Pastor Scott embodies the Scripture through his work at First Baptist Church, helping others every day. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he started a nonprofit effort at Vidalia High School called Whisper to address rising mental health concerns. His efforts have increased student well-being across the region, as it has expanded to other schools. His dedication to bettering the lives of young people in his community sets an example for us all. Pastor Scott is married to Mindy, and they have two sons and a daughter. I thank Pastor Scott Morrison for his community leadership and service to others over the past 25 years. He is and will be a critical part of the Vidalia community for years to come. Honoring Mayor John William Grant, Jr.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of former Milledgeville Mayor John William Grant, Jr., who passed away on February 14 at the age of 99. Mayor Grant was born in 1926, serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II and graduating from college soon after. Back in Milledgeville, he successfully ran his family jewelry business while simultaneously serving 20 years as a Milledgeville city councilman and 4 years as mayor. He was known for his integrity, thoughtful leadership, and deep commitment to the people of Milledgeville during his time in office. He led with a hands-on approach, focusing on improving infrastructure, encouraging community growth, and fostering unity among residents. Mayor Grant is survived by his children, grandchildren, great- grandchildren, and countless friends. He will be remembered as a kindhearted leader who truly cared about the people of Milledgeville. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and the entire community. Remembering Tony Petrea

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Tony Petrea, a proud Savannah native who passed away at his home in Statesboro surrounded by his loving family and friends. Tony was a man of discipline, integrity, and strength who built a respected name for himself in his community through hard work and dedication. He cherished his years coaching baseball, sharing his time and wisdom with young athletes. He was also an amateur radio enthusiast and loved to travel, exploring destinations from Mexico to the Adriatic and Mediterranean Seas. In addition to his many passions, Tony established the J.L. Petrea Construction Scholarship at Ogeechee Technical College, allowing two students each year to receive financial support to pursue their education. Tony's generosity and kind spirit were a hallmark of his life. He connected easily with others, gave selflessly, and never sought recognition for his good deeds. His legacy will live on through the lives he touched and the opportunities he created for others. Recognizing Georgia Southern's Ethics Bowl Team

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding achievement by the Georgia Southern University Ethics Bowl team from Statesboro, Georgia. This talented group of Eagles has qualified for the 2026 APPE Intercollegiate Ethics Bowl National Competition in St. Louis, Missouri. After a strong performance at the regional competition in Dahlonega, they earned their spot among just 36 top undergraduate teams nationwide. In the Ethics Bowl, students engage in thoughtful, collaborative discussions on real-world moral, political, and social issues. They prepare cases for months, apply ethical theories, present reasoned positions, and offer civil commentary on opponents' views. It is not about winning arguments but about analyzing complex dilemmas with clarity and respect. Team president Cade Huff credits Ethics Bowl with sharpening his communication skills and preparing him for a potential career in law and government. I congratulate the Georgia Southern Ethics Bowl team for exemplifying intellectual rigor and ethical leadership. May they bring home strong results and inspire others to thoughtful engagement. Remembering Miriam Kantsiper Center

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to honor the life of Miriam Kantsiper Center, who passed away on February 17. Mrs. Center was a prominent member of the Savannah community for many decades. In addition to having a lifelong interest in politics and civic issues, she established a successful real estate business and an all-female Little League team in Savannah. Miriam was also the first female chairperson of Savannah's Metropolitan Planning Commission. She played an instrumental role in getting her husband, Leo, elected to the Savannah City Council on multiple occasions. At the age of 74, Mrs. Center became an author and at 80, a playwright. In 2020, she received the Savannah Woman of Vision Award from the Savannah College of Art and Design for her invaluable impact on the Savannah community. I knew Miriam well. She was a very special lady. My thoughts and prayers go out to her two sons and five grandchildren. Honoring Jan Jones' Service

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Georgia State Representative Jan Jones, whose term ending this year will mark the end of an impressive and impactful tenure in the Georgia legislature. Representative Jones was first elected to the Georgia House in 2002 and became speaker pro tempore in 2010. She was reelected to that position every term since, making her the longest serving speaker pro tempore in the country and the most powerful woman in the Georgia State House. Jan led Senate Bill 233, the Georgia Promise Scholarship Act, through the statehouse. This established a voucher program for students who switched from a low-performing public school to a private or home school program. Despite multiple times of the bill being in danger of failing, Representative Jones' strong connection throughout the legislature ensured its passage. Current House Speaker Jon Burns has called her a trailblazer who will leave a significant mark in State history. I thank my friend, Representative Jones, for her many years of dedicated service to the State of Georgia and congratulate her on a job well done. It was, indeed, an honor to serve with her. Remembering Joe Randall

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Joe Randall, a prominent member of the Savannah community, who passed away on February 14. Mr. Randall played an instrumental part in shaping southern cuisine through his cookbook ``A Taste of Heritage: The New African-American Cuisine.'' The book's popularity led to it being inducted into the James Beard Foundation Cookbook Hall of Fame. Chef Randall was affectionately known as the ``Dean of Southern Cuisine'' and featured in the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture for his contributions to southern cuisine. In 1993, Randall founded the African American Chefs Hall of Fame as part of the Taste of Heritage Foundation. In addition, he founded the Chef Joe Randall's Cooking School in Savannah where he trained aspiring chefs and local students. Mr. Speaker, Joe is survived by his wife, Barbara, along with his children, his sisters, and his grandson. Remembering Randall Eugene Davis, Sr.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Randall Eugene Davis, Sr., who passed away on February 16. Randy was a lifelong Savannahian and a proud resident of Wilmington Island. In 1994, Randy and Sherry, his wife of 35 years, opened Davis Produce in Savannah and grew it to the Wilmington Island staple that it is today. For 31 years, Randy dedicated himself to his community, paying their generosity forward. Mr. Davis understood that small businesses such as his survive through hard work, determination, and service to the community. These are values that he exemplified each day. Known as the ``home of the killer tomato,'' Davis Produce became a place of community gathering and friendship for all. Randy was an exemplary member of the community who found happiness by bringing joy to others, both within and outside of his business. Mr. Speaker, Randy is survived by his wife, his father, his siblings, and community at large who greatly appreciated his years of service. Remembering John S. Kern

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of John S. Kern, who passed away on January 30. He studied at the Florida Institute of Technology, the University of Delaware, and the University of South Florida, earning degrees in civil and structural engineering. John built a distinguished career as an engineer, opening his own firm in 1976 and, with it, a reputation for excellence and quality. His impact on Savannah didn't stop at his profession. John was heavily involved in a variety of Savannah-based organizations like The Landings Club and The Savannah Golf Club. John was an avid golfer and aviator, enjoying piloting his own plane all across the Southeast. Above all, he deeply valued the life he shared with his wife, Sherry, and the many lasting friendships and memories they created together. As mayor of the city of Pooler, I had the honor of working with John on many projects. He was truly an asset to our community. Mr. Speaker, our thoughts and prayers are with his family and his friends. Remembering Albert Jernigan Swann, III

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the remarkable life of Albert Jernigan ``AJ'' Swann III, who passed away on February 16. Born and raised in Macon, Georgia, AJ graduated from Lanier High School before attending Georgia Tech, where he competed in golf and basketball for the Yellow Jackets. His love for golf turned into a lifelong passion, being a longtime member of the Harness Golf Club, recording an outstanding eight holes-in-one during his golf career. AJ was equally known as a long-distance runner, proudly finishing nine marathons and 31 half marathons. Professionally, he was involved in construction, real estate development and commercial cleaning, operating Beacon Property Services. Above all, AJ embodied qualities of the true southern gentleman: warm, genuine, and quick to make everyone feel valued and appreciated. He often said none of this would have been possible without the unwavering love of his devoted wife, Ruth. Mr. Speaker, we hold his family and friends in our thoughts and prayers. Annie Laura Wildenradt Turns 105 Years Old

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize World War II veteran Annie Laura Wildenradt, who turned 105 years old last month. Ms. Wildenradt was born on February 27, 1921, in Statesboro, Georgia, as the oldest of eight children. The Georgia native joined the Army during World War II, working with the Women's Army Auxiliary Corps. Her courageous and exceptional service has helped pave the way for future generations of women in the military. Last year, at 104, she received the Award of Valor from Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10825 for her service and lasting impact. Ms. Wildenradt's family affectionately calls her ``Aunt Lolly'' and celebrates her birthday each year as a way to honor her life and kindness. Her legacy is unmatched, and we are proud she represented our great State of Georgia. Honoring Representative Carl Gilliard

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor my good friend, Georgia State Representative Carl Gilliard, who announced he won't be seeking re-election. Representative Gilliard has been a dedicated public servant, serving Georgia's 162nd District for the past 10 years. During his time in office, he has been a force for community and progress, passing more bills than any other Democratic lawmaker. His accomplishments include passing the blind bill to protect blind parents' rights, creating Chatham County Gang Prevention Commission as a statewide model, and establishing authorities to preserve cultural heritage. He chaired the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus, has renamed countless roads and bridges to memorialize local heroes, and fought for our communities through Feed the Hungry Youth programs. His retirement can be summed up in his words: It is time to come home. Mr. Speaker, his legacy of service from Atlanta to Savannah inspires us all and we thank him for his extraordinary contributions to Georgia and our communities. Congratulations, my friend, on your retirement. Honoring Michele Knight

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Michele Knight for being named the new chief executive officer of the Bryan County Chamber of Commerce. Ms. Knight is a proven leader whose career has been defined by service and results. Throughout her career, she has brought together boards, elected officials, investors, and community leaders to advance shared priorities and foster long-term sustainable growth. Her background in nonprofit management, hospitality, marketing, and business development makes her exceedingly qualified to lead the chamber into the next chapter. Through Ms. Knight's leadership, I am confident the chamber will continue to grow and serve the people and businesses of Bryan County. We are very proud of her and look forward to the great work she will do in this new role. Recognizing The Lighthouse WECC

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize The Lighthouse WECC, an aspiring nonprofit radio station serving southeast Georgia and northeast Florida. Rooted in the timeless truth Romans 10:17 gives us: ``Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God,'' The Lighthouse is dedicated to proclaiming the Gospel, offering hope, and being a shining beacon in the darkness. Far more than a station, it serves as a voice of encouragement, equipping and uniting the body of Christ in a world that desperately needs truth and love. Its ministry extends beyond the airwaves through The Rock Ministry Center, where Bible studies, youth programs, and partnership with local ministries like Cub Scouts and Fellowship of Christian Athletes bring its vision to life and fosters lasting impact in our communities. We are deeply grateful for their faithful service in strengthening faith, sharing the good news, and ministering to others with compassion and conviction. Together, we continue to shine His light in our communities and across the Nation. Honoring Georgia Senator Ed Harbison

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize my good friend, District 15 Georgia State Senator Ed Harbison, who will not be seeking re-election. First elected to the Senate in 1993, Senator Harbison is the longest- serving member of the Georgia Senate and has faithfully represented the people of his district for more than three decades. Throughout his time under the Gold Dome, Senator Harbison worked to serve and protect the citizens of his district and the State of Georgia. Before his time in the Senate, he was the vice president of the Muscogee County School Board and a member of the Columbus Review Commission. Over the decades, Senator Harbison witnessed and helped achieve many milestones in the Georgia general assembly during his distinguished career. His public service to the people of Georgia will not be forgotten. Mr. Speaker, I thank Senator Harbison for his years of leadership and commitment to the great State of Georgia. I had the honor and privilege of serving with Senator Harbison. He is truly a great Georgian. Recognizing Judge Jason B. Thompson

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Fayette County State Court Judge Jason B. Thompson on his appointment to the Supreme Court of Georgia's Commission on Dispute Resolution. Judge Thompson has served as a State court judge in Fayette County since 2013. Prior to that, he held multiple roles as a prosecutor and as a municipal and magistrate court judge in Georgia. Mr. Speaker, he helped create the Griffin Judicial Circuit's DUI/Drug Court and Veterans Treatment Court programs. These initiatives focused on treatment and accountability within the legal system. Since its inception, this program has graduated over 100 participants and saved the community $1 million in jail costs. In his new position, Judge Thompson will serve on the commission that sets standards for mediation and dispute resolution throughout the State. These programs allow legal conflicts to be resolved outside the courtroom, saving time and reducing costs. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Judge Thompson on his appointment. Honoring the Life of Garry Patrick

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life of Garry Joseph Patrick, the general manager of Old Town Trolley Tours in Savannah, Georgia, who passed away on March 5. Garry Patrick was a respected leader and a valued member of Savannah's community. He began his career with the Old Town Trolley Tours in 2010 as the depot sales manager. After a successful 3 years, he stepped forward to serve as program manager for the Ghost and Gravestones Tour. Throughout his career, Garry also worked in the Groups and Charters department and served as assistant general manager before becoming general manager. Most importantly, the key to Garry's success was his kindness and his deep commitment to the people around him. He made a lasting impact on his colleagues and on the Savannah community he served. He helped shape the experience of countless visitors who came to learn about Savannah's rich history. Mr. Speaker, Garry will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Congratulating Young Harris College Mountain Lions

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an incredible achievement in Division II basketball for the great State of Georgia. In Spartanburg, South Carolina, the Young Harris College Mountain Lions claimed their first-ever Conference Carolinas Men's Basketball Championship, defeating Chowan University 82-79 in a thrilling title game. This victory marks a milestone for the program, securing the automatic bid to the NCAA Division II men's basketball championship and capping off a remarkable 22-8 season. Led by Conference Carolinas Player of the Year Carl Cleveland, the Mountain Lions showed resilience and heart. Cleveland scored a game high of 34 points, including 6 three-pointers, accompanied by Cameron Bleshoy's 11 points, Justin Payne's 14 points, and Christian Drummer's 10 points. The team forced 15 turnovers for crucial transition points, fighting against it constantly. To Coach Jeremy Currier, the players, staff, and the entire Young Harris community, congratulations on making school history. Mr. Speaker, I honor my alma mater. Honoring the Life of Preston Lawrence

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Preston Lawrence of Brunswick, Georgia. Mr. Lawrence passed away on Saturday March 7, 2026, in Brantley County. He was a fearless and daring outdoorsman who found his peace while hunting and excitement while four-wheeling through the woods. Preston was dedicated to the Lord, often participating in Bible study with his friends. His love of all things outdoors was only outdone by his commitment to his friends and family. A class of 2024 Glynn Academy graduate, Preston was a dedicated employee of GP Cellulose since 2024. Above all, Preston loved people with unwavering loyalty. To know him was to have a protector, a prankster, and true friend in your corner. Preston's memory will be carried on by his loving family and friends who cheered him on throughout his life. Honoring Daniel W. Wright, Jr.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of longtime educator and civil rights giant, Daniel W. Wright, Jr., who passed away at the age of 95. Mr. Wright, who was born in 1930, is remembered as a man of kind words, a thoughtful demeanor, and sincere encouragement. In 1963, Wright served as the president of Chatham County Teachers' Association in Savannah. As president, he took on the Georgia Teachers and Education Association, fighting for equal pay for Black teachers and school administration. Additionally, he fought for pupil-teacher ratio equity, understanding that a lower ratio would improve individual attention per student. These actions are a testament to Mr. Wright's commitment to ensuring all people receive equal rights and freedoms, especially in the education sphere. A husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Mr. Wright was dedicated to his family and constantly poured love into their lives. On behalf of all Georgians, we thank Mr. Wright for his devotion toward the fight for civil rights and equal freedoms. Honoring Lieutenant Colonel Brandon A. Shah

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and the service of Lieutenant Colonel Brandon A. Shah, a decorated Army aviator and proud University of Georgia graduate, who was tragically killed in a terror attack at Old Dominion University. A native Virginian, Shah enlisted in the Army in 2003, honorably serving in both Iraq and Afghanistan. He earned his MBA from UGA's Terry College of Business in 2018, while stationed at Hunter Army Airfield in Savannah, Georgia, in the First Congressional District. With over two decades of service, including 1,200 flight hours and 600 in combat, he led as Professor of Military Science at ODU's Army ROTC, mentoring future leaders. Described as having a passion for impacting lives daily, his bravery lives on through the courageous students who subdued the attacker. Our thoughts are with his family, the University of Georgia and Old Dominion University communities, and all who knew this devoted patriot. May we remember his legacy of service and sacrifice. God bless his memory, and may he rest in peace. Recognizing Dr. Alexandra Estrella