Troy Carter

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in support of my ADD SOY Act. This bill makes soy milk available to children who need alternatives to cow's milk. This is especially important for the large number of minority children who are lactose intolerant and experience adverse health effects simply because, in practice, dairy is the only type of milk offered in schools. The rates of lactose intolerance in these communities is surprisingly high with 65 percent of Latino students, 75 percent of Black students, and 90 percent of Asian students unable to digest dairy milk without detrimental effects. Many children don't make the connection between consumption of this product and their feelings of discomfort and even illness. Right now, children who suffer adverse reactions from cow's milk must get a doctor's note if they choose not to accept traditional milk in their lunch. This is partly due to Congress' ``milk note'' requirement which places an unfair burden squarely on minority children. Lactose intolerance causes a range of health effects, from stomach pains and digestive problems to exacerbated asthma symptoms. This makes learning more difficult for children. America needs to embrace a diverse lunch counter solution.

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana. Mr. Speaker, I thank the distinguished gentleman from Illinois and the distinguished gentlewoman from Florida for the opportunity to speak. The late Congressman John Lewis once said: ``Your vote is precious, almost sacred. It is the most powerful nonviolent tool we have to create a more perfect union.'' Few truer words have been spoken. Over the weekend, I had the privilege of joining President Biden and my colleagues in Alabama to commemorate the 58th anniversary of Bloody Sunday. We traced the steps of incredible brave soldiers. What a blessing to feel their heartbeats in the wind. I will make my thoughts on this trip concise. We must protect the right to vote. Fair representation is a cornerstone of our democracy. A war was fought to give every American of every race one vote. For voters today, voters tomorrow, and all of those who sacrificed for the sacred right to vote, we must pass the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act to restore the vote for all. In every fashion, in every avenue, we will continue to battle to protect this sacred right and strengthen the very foundation of our democracy.

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of a true New Orleans spiritual leader, educator, culture bearer and mentor, Sister Jennie Louise Jones, S.S.F. who passed away at the age of 70 years old. Sister Jennie Louise Jones, S.S.F., the daughter of the late Leonard Earl Jones, Jr, in union with Mrs. Jennie Gourrier Jones, entered eternal life on Sunday, February 26, 2023. She was born on June 15, 1952, Sister Jennie entered the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Family on September 8, 1970, and made First Vows on August 15, 1973. Sister had celebrated 52 years as a Sister of the Holy Family. Raised and deeply rooted in New Orleans culture, Sister Jennie attended Corpus Christi Elementary School and was a 1970 graduate of St. Mary's Academy. In preparation for her ministry in education, Sister Jennie received a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Xavier University of Louisiana and a Master's degree in Educational Administration from the University of New Orleans. Sister Jennie served as teacher, principal and assistant principal in her ministries. She taught and was assistant principal at St. Raymond Elementary School, assistant principal at St. Paul the Apostle, principal at Corpus Christi Elementary and Marian Central Middle School, all in New Orleans. Sister Jennie also taught at Ecumenical High School in Dangriga, Belize, Central America. After Hurricane Katrina, Sister Jennie taught at Pineville Middle School in Pineville, Louisiana. Sister's longest tenure was as principal of St. Mary's Academy, serving over twenty years, from which she retired in 2022. Sister Jennie kept the school open after Hurricane Katrina, when the City of New Orleans planned to turn the school's campus into a green space. Sister also served as a member of the Sisters of the Holy Family Leadership Team. In 2012, ``Sister Jennie Jones, Principal of St. Mary's Academy, was among an elite group of nine Catholics honored as `Champions of Change in Catholic Education' at a special White House ceremony,'' honored by then President Barack Obama, as the school was rebuilt and even expanded. During her tenure, their curriculum and program grew to include classes from Kindergarten through Eighth Grade to accommodate students and families displaced by the Hurricane. Now, middle and high school students are able to enjoy a new state of the art building because of her leadership and commitment. Sister Jennie is preceded in death by her beloved father, Leonard Earl Jones, Jr., and brother, Benjamin ``Bennie'' Jones, and her paternal and maternal grandparents. Sister Jennie leaves to cherish her memory: her mother, Mrs. Jennie G. Jones, two brothers, Carl A. Jones and Leonard E. Jones, III (Gwendolyn); niece Mikeall Caesar (Rickey); two nephews, Jeffery Lewis and Jude Lewis, great nephew Stanley Tate, great niece, Jennie Louise Hawkins; and a host of uncles, cousins, faculty, staff, and students of St. Mary's Academy, as well as religious sisters, and friends. I am humbled to have personally known such a great spiritual leader and fighter for all, who has done so much to improve the lives of countless residents across my district. So many people's lives are enriched because of the love and passion she expressed in touching them along the way. New Orleans has lost another one of its greatest champions of culture. Sister Jennie Jones touched tens of thousands of lives in our community, dedicating her entire life to educating young black children, impacting generations of families over five decades of religious life. May we continue to receive her blessings as she continues to watch over us and our entire country in prayer.

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an Orleans Parish Public School named in honor of an American educator, author, orator, and adviser to several presidents of the United States including Theodore Roosevelt and Woodrow Wilson. Between 1890 and 1915, Washington was the dominant leader in the African American community and of the contemporary black elite, In 1881, the New Orleans School Board barred the city's black students from attending public school beyond the sixth grade. However, in 1917, due to pressure from the black community, the school board relented and converted the McDonogh No. 13 campus, then located at 655 South Rampart Street, from a white boy's elementary school to a public high school for black students and renamed the facility McDonogh No. 35. Through decades of sustained activism from Black leaders and a bailout from the federal government. Lacking political power, Black leaders worked through civic, religious and educational organizations to press their concerns before the school board, beginning first with the total lack of public education beyond the fifth grade, as mandated by school board policy in 1900. The sixth was restored in 1909, the seventh in 1913, and the eighth in 1914. With these milestones under their belts, Black leaders began the campaign for a high school. The much sought after school opened in 1917 as McDonogh 35 in a recycled former school for whites. The next item on the activist agenda was a sorely needed vocational school. But where to find the money? The Rosenwald Fund had expressed an interest but only if the school board shared the cost. During much of the 1920s and early 1930s, the Orleans Public School Board was further pressed into initiating discussions to consider the construction of a new high school for New Orleans' black children as McDonogh 35's campus had proved woefully inadequate to accommodate the city's growing black community. Census records indicated that 8,709 high school age black children resided in Orleans Parish in 1930. Of these children, 2,580 were enrolled in McDonogh No. 35, the city's black high school age population, it significantly taxed the McDonogh No. 35's physical plant and led to overcrowded conditions. In 1930 the school board sold bonds for school construction and allocated $275,000 toward construction of a Black trade school. The Rosenwald Fund pledged $125,000. In response to concerns that a Black trade school might threaten white jobs, a public statement was issued, assuring everyone ``that the trades to be taught at the school would be exclusively those which are largely occupied by colored labor at this time.'' But it would still be another dozen years before Booker T. Washington High School became a reality. After purchasing a parcel of land for the purpose, the school board announced that it did not have the money to match the Rosenwald offer. Instead, in 1934 they built on the site a wood frame elementary school for Blacks for $21,000. Although disheartened by this broken promise, black leaders continued to champion their goal throughout the 1930s. But it was federal, not local funds, that made Booker T. possible. In the twilight of its existence, the New Deal's Works Progress Administration funded the project to the tune of some quarter of a million dollars. Like other similar schools across the South, it was named for Booker T. Washington, the famous black educator. (In regard to making it a vocational school) Many felt that such an education would prepare the city's Black students for employment in relatively high-paying emergent technical/trade careers, thus providing them with better opportunities in life. At the same time, many within the city's Black community objected to this type of curriculum, as they felt that a college-preparatory education strongly based in classical academics of the same caliber offered to white students should be made available for their children. In 1942, the Booker T. Washington campus was the first new high school built specifically for Black students in New Orleans. According to census records, the number of black high school age children in the city had increased from 8,709 to 11,238. Only 2,580 of those children had a place to attend school prior to the opening of Booker T. Washington. It was named ``Booker T Washington Senior High School'' as a tribute to a celebrated Black educator and activist during the late 19th and early 20th centuries who passionately argued the benefits of a vocational education. He saw it as a benefit not only to the Black community but to uplift the Southern economy. New Orleans saw notable industrial developments in the 30s and 40s. The school's curriculum was comprehensive. It offered both an impressive range of traditional academic courses in addition to vocational classes and training in the trades. Classes offered included shoe repair, biology, social science, physical education, graphic arts, home economics, vocal/music, masonry, woodworking, math, English, and instrumental music (OSPB, 1942-43: 110). The school boasted an enrollment of 1,600 children in its 1942-1943 school year. Students came from all corners of the city because of the promise to invest in the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and doers. The teachers were all Black, educated, and inspired by the pivotal role the high school played in the sojourn to racial equality. It was a unique snapshot of the richness of New Orleans. During WWII, New Orleans was home to Higgins Industries which is credited for building a special boat that helped the U.S. win the war. The Higgins workforce was the first in New Orleans to be racially integrated. Employees included whites and Black people, men, women, seniors, and people with disabilities. All were paid equal wages according to their job functions. The significant industrial developments were the main reason educators and business owners were pushing for a vocational school that would prepare students to immediately join the workforce and provide for their families. These environmental influences aided in the popularity of Booker T. Washington High School, cementing it as a destination for New Orleans youth. In 1945, following the close of World War II, BTW High School opened its doors to the community's returning Black war veterans with the establishment of the BTW Afternoon Center, which provided vocational training to veterans on a 12-month basis. The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) held its local chapter's annual meeting at the BTW auditorium in March 1945. In 1946, the BTW Summer School for Vets was established to teach automotive, shoe repair, woodworking, painting and decorating, and masonry to the community's former servicemen (OPSB, 1946: 538, 539). In 1948, construction of an ``Auto Mechanics Shop and Greenhouse'' was complete. Responding to a clear job training need during the 1948-49 school year, Cosmetology classes were first offered at BTW High School. In 1949, OPSB authorized the expansion of the school's curriculum with the addition of ``short unit courses'' for the training of practical nurses (these classes would not actually be offered until 1959). BTW emerged as a local sports powerhouse as its football team, the Lions, won both the city championship and the state title in 1949 and 1950. In 1957, Martin Luther King, Jr. speaks at the National Beauty Culturalist League, Inc., 38th Annual Convention. The Convention was held at Booker T. Washington Senior High School auditorium. The school graduated cosmetologists, carpenters, auto repair experts, and other vo-tech specialists. Dr. King spoke on ``The Role of Beauticians in the Struggle for Freedom.'' King said: ``I am not too optimistic to believe that integration is `just around the corner.' We have come a long, long way and we still have a long way to go, but we must keep moving despite the delay tactics used by segregationists.'' King received the organization's Civil Rights Award at the event. War bond rallies held at the auditorium between 1942 and 1945 raised thousands of dollars and enabled the city's black residents to contribute to the war effort. In 1962, Orleans Parish School Board announced the launch of a building program to include the construction of the ``Booker T. Washington Addition and Gymnasium Annex.'' The annex was a freestanding, three-story edifice that was sited to the west of the campus's main school building. The annex housed a gymnasium, 16 classrooms, and laboratories. Dubbed ``The Lion's Den''. The City of New Orleans was still dealing with the desegregation of public schools that was initiated in 1960. In September 1962, the Catholic schools of Orleans Parish were also integrated, without much protest or disruption. In the early 1970s this ``dual track'' curriculum was shelved for one that was primarily academic due largely to ``education reformers and civil rights activists who lobbied against vocational education for black students and for integrated college preparatory high schools.'' This sentiment was rooted in the belief that a vocational education would guarantee that Black people were trapped in low-wage jobs (Thevenot, 2004:1). Many firsts were happening at the same time throughout the city. In 1970, city organizers expanded on an idea that started at Dillard University and started the first Jazz & Heritage Festival. The Superdome opened on August 3, 1975. The city elected its first Black Mayor, Ernest N. Morial, who was a product of New Orleans Public Schools. During the 1980s, it is noted that the high-quality curriculum that formerly distinguished the school also began to erode by the 1980s. The larger area of Central City continues to see a steady decline as the crack epidemic took over in New Orleans as well as other major cities and the homicide rates continued to increase. The city even took to imposing a curfew for those 16 and under in an attempt to reduce crime. Oil production was cut nearly in half in the late 1980s, creating a ripple effect in New Orleans that changed the landscape and economy of the city forever. It caused the state to reduce its support of local schools. The deteriorating environment began to negatively impact Booker T. Washington along with many New Orleans Public Schools that once were sources of tremendous pride. By 1981, BTW reached back into its past and initiated an award- winning vocational program that endeavored to train students for agricultural-based employment opportunities. The course was classified as a ``Cooperative Agriculture and Education Program,'' with students receiving both course credit and a salary whilst receiving practical experience in an agribusiness occupation. The course was classified as a ``Cooperative Agriculture and Education Program,'' with students receiving both course credit and a salary whilst receiving practical experience in an agribusiness occupation. Booker T. Washington High School is added to the National Register of Historical Places in 2002 because of its architectural and historical significance. By 2004, BTW is forced to suspend its curriculum due to extremely low enrollment and switches to a vocational/technical school for the 05/06 school year. BTW building suffered extensive damage from Hurricane Katrina in 2005. BTW High School is officially demolished in 2012, sparing only the auditorium and entrance due to their historical significance. In 2019, fifteen years after the historic Booker T. Washington High School building in Central City closed its doors, hundreds gathered in the school's gymnasium to celebrate its $52.5 million renovation. I am humbled to have personally known so many great New Orleans legends, leaders and alumni of this great Institution. Each of them has done so much to improve the lives of countless residents across Louisiana's Second Congressional District, the State of Louisiana and the entire Country. So many people's lives are enriched because of the passion expressed in touching people along the way. New Orleans is rich in culture because of many Booker T. Washington Alumni that makes a difference. I look forward to what will develop out of the walls of this great institution into our future. Congratulations on its reopening and the future it holds.

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to pay tribute to an outstanding, cherished public servant from my home State of Louisiana who is celebrating her 90th birthday. Mrs. Yolanda Kelly Henry was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, on February 4, 1933. She was raised in Cincinnati, Ohio and later moved to Los Angeles, California. Mrs. Henry eventually returned to New Orleans to make this her home where she and her husband, Clarence ``Chink'' Henry, Jr. raised their 4 children: Rodney E. Henry, Clarence ``Chink'' Henry, III, Sherlyn Henry Lambert, and Marvin A. Henry. Mrs. Henry has been a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated for more than 40 years. She was initiated into the Zeta Theta Chapter in the mid-1970s, at Southern University New Orleans, where she was a full-time student and mother of 4. She was active in the chapter until graduation. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from SUNO. She immediately enrolled into a master's program at Xavier University of Louisiana, where she received a Master Degree in Counseling. She counseled many families throughout the Greater New Orleans area during her career at the Office of Community Services, an office of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Administration and Human Services' Administration for Children and Families. At her precious age, Mrs. Henry has remained an active member of the Pontchartrain Park Neighborhood Association for the past 65 years. Her love of serving her City, the community and others does not stop there. She is a member of the National Black Social Workers Association, the SUNO Alumni Association, and Bethany United Methodist Church Women's Association. I am humbled to pay tribute to such a great culture community leader and fighter for all, who has done so much to improve the lives of countless residents across my district. So many people's lives are enriched because of the love and passion she expresses daily in touching them along the way. I pray that she remains in good health and continue to spread joy and love to her family, friends and our beloved District. Happy 90th birthday to Mrs. Yolanda Kelly Henry, and may she live to see many more.

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana. Mr. Chair, during rollcall no. 76 on H.R. 21, I mistakenly recorded my vote as ``yea'' when I should have voted ``nay.'' Amendment No. 60 Offered by Ms. Scholten

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of New Orleans culture bearer and activist, Barbara Lacen Keller who passed away following a brief illness at the age of 76. New Orleans has lost one of its greatest champions of culture. Barbara was always leading the fight for the rights of our musicians and culture bearers. She left a legacy worthy to be celebrated and remembered for generations to come. She was also involved in politics, to improve the lives of people in New Orleans and across the country. For many years she worked for the City of New Orleans, as the Director of Constituent Services for Council District B Councilwoman Stacey Head, and later in Mayor LaToya Cantrell's Office of Cultural Economy, where she retired in 2020. She was fondly nicknamed ``the Mayor of Central City'', for all her work in that neighborhood. In 2012 she proudly served as a Barack Obama delegate to the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, NC. She was a Mellon Community Fellow at Tulane University, mentoring graduate students in community relations. Barbara was a very active figure in New Orleans' cultural community, including serving on the boards for the Preservation Resource Center of New Orleans and the Dryades YMCA, where she was currently serving as President of the Board of Dryades YMCA, New Orleans, Louisiana, leading the transition and operational restructuring of 115-year-old community anchor organization. She was an original member of the Lady Buckjumpers, and a founding member of the New Orleans Social Aid & Pleasure Club Task Force. Barbara was a charter member of the Femme Fatale Mardi Gras krewe, serving as one of the first float captains, and was currently serving as chaplain. She had been a valued member of the Board of Directors of WWOZ since 2021 where she will be remembered as a Guardian Angel overlooking the Guardians of the Groove, advocating for culture bearers and musicians in our city; and of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation, where she was elected to the Advisory Council in 2016, and onto the Board of the Foundation in 2019, serving as Chair of the Advocacy and Equity Committee and its Gala Committee. Barbara's mother was Augustine ``Miss Teen'' Germaine Lewis, who in the 1940s was the only Spy Girl Mardi Gras Indian in New Orleans. In the 1950s, Barbara herself masked as the Little Queen of the Cheyenne tribe. Barbara was raised on Villere Street in Treme, and attended Joseph A. Craig Elementary School, Andrew J. Bell Junior High School, and Joseph S. Clark Sr. High School, followed by Southern University at New Orleans. She was also a proud honorary member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Barbara's Honors, Awards and Appointments are beyond numerous to mention them all. Other civic involvement included: Israelite Baptist Church, Pastor Support & Youth Ministries, Governmental Liaison, Mass Choir National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, Member Black Organization for Leadership Development, Member Great Expectations Inc., Past Board Member and Treasurer City of New Orleans Enterprise Congress, Member National Council of Negro Women, Member New Orleans Social Aid and Pleasure Club Task Force, Founder Central City Partnership, Co-Founder and Chairperson Cafe Reconcile, New Orleans Board of Directors, Past Chair New Orleans Council on Aging, Board of Directors Gathering of the Sisters, Founder City of New Orleans, Master Plan Advisory Committee, Districts 25 & 26, Subcommittee Chairperson Armstrong Family Services, Board of Directors, Past Chair Urban League, Member Independent Women's Organization, Membership & Endorsement Committees Orleans Parish Democratic Executive Committee, Member Democratic State Central Committee, District 103, Member National Slave Ship Museum, Vice Chair Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc., Member Original New Orleans Lady Buck Jumpers, Member American Heart Association, Go Red Women Luncheon, 2011 Co- Chair Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Holiday Commission, Co-Chair Treme/7th Ward Cultural District, Sponsorship Coordinator, Festival Co-Producer Preservation Resource Committee, Board of Directors, Chair of Multicultural Heritage Committee, Chair The ``Lacen'' part of her name came from her marriage to Anthony ``Tuba Fats'' Lacen, one of New Orleans' most famous musicians, who was also Wild Man of the Wild Magnolias Mardi Gras Indian Tribe. Their August 1980 wedding in Armstrong Park was the first wedding to take place in the park. Tuba Fats passed in 2004. Barbara's 1 son, Gene Bentley predeceased her in November of 2022. She is survived by the gems of her eyes, 3 daughters--Dawn Bentley- Johnson, Kelly Bentley Dixon and Cantina Rankins; 4 beautiful grandchildren--Zihara Rankins, Michael Brooks, Jr., Jelani Robinson, and Alicia Green; and 1 adorable great-grandchild. I am humbled to have personally known such a great culture bearer and fighter for all, who has done so much to improve the lives of countless residents across my district. So many people's lives are enriched because of the love and passion she expressed in touching them along the way. While the grieving process never truly ends, I pray that the day will come when her memory brings a smile to her family and friends' faces before it brings a tear to their eyes.

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to support the Small Business Advocacy Improvements Act. Small businesses help make up the foundation of our country's economy, with over half of Americans owning or working for small businesses. As the driving force behind our economy, it is crucial that the government uplift them at every possible point. This bill clarifies the function and duties of the Office of Advocacy of the Small Business Administration to allow the Office of Advocacy to represent the views and interests of small businesses before foreign governments and international entities. This will allow American small businesses to be better represented in international markets and in negotiations with foreign entities. Whether domestic or abroad, our small businesses deserve a seat at the table if discussions are going to affect the bottom line. My district is an international hub. We have some of the most important and highest traffic ports in the United States. Louisiana businesses connect with diverse companies and international markets across the globe every day. This bill will ensure that small business owners have someone at the table fighting for them. I will continue to do everything in my power to support American small businesses so they can better compete in the international market. I thank our chair and Congressman Luetkemeyer for working with me on this important bipartisan bill. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this measure.

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Keith C. Ferdinand for his recognition as a 2023 Southern University at New Orleans Center for African and African American Studies Living Legend. Dr. Ferdinand is receiving this high honor because of his dedicated service to the citizens of New Orleans as a Cardiovascular Physician. For over 40 years, Dr. Ferdinand has endeavored to improve the health and lives of African Americans and other high risk, marginalized populations. He has devoted his life in medicine to eliminating the health disparities of New Orleans' most ostracized. people. In light of all of the aforementioned professional tributes, the roles he most treasures are devoted son, sibling, father, and husband. Keith C. Ferdinand, MD, FACC, FAHA, FASH, FNLA began his medical career with a BA in biology from the University of New Orleans. He then went on to earn an MD from Howard University College of Medicine in Washington, DC, an internship at the US Public Health Hospital in New Orleans, an internal medicine residency and cardiology fellowship at LSU Medical Center and a cardiology fellowship at Howard University Hospital, Washington, D.C. Following his years of doing clinical work, research and teaching at Xavier University, LSU, Baylor College of Medicine, and Emory University, Dr. Ferdinand returned to New Orleans as a Professor of Clinical Medicine at the Tulane University Heart and Vascular Institute. Dr. Ferdinand has been heavily involved in many national organizations concerned with public health, including the Association of Black Cardiologists, of which he was the former Chair and Chief Science Officer, the American Society of Hypertension, of which he was a board member, and the Healthy Heart Community Prevention Program, a cardiovascular risk program targeting African American and other highrisk populations. He is the immediate-past Chair of the National Forum for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention, which provides the leadership and encouragement for collaboration among over 65 organizations. Dr. Ferdinand focuses largely on cardiac risk factor evaluation and control, especially hypertension and hyperlipidemia, including communities of racial and ethnic minorities. He has had over 100 manuscripts published and has a strong media presence. His passion for patient care is highlighted by his commitment to non-profit work and community service. In 2015 he was inducted into the Association of University Cardiologists. He also focused on improving patient care and eliminating health disparities by race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, or gender through research and academic interests. I am humbled to personally know such a great physician, who has done so much to improve the lives of countless residents across my district. We are so honored to have Dr. Ferdinand, a true advocate for patient care.

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the re-grand opening of the United Way of Southeast Louisiana's J. Wayne Leonard Prosperity Center, a one-stop financial stability center offering an array of programming to the citizens of Greater New Orleans including financial education and coaching, credit building and counseling, benefits screening, and income tax assistance. As part of United Way's footprint located at a newly acquired site at 2901 Canal Street, the new facility will also house United Way's IDA Project, a matched savings account program helping low-income individuals purchase long-term assets through a 4:1 match of their own savings. The program is addressing the challenges of intergenerational poverty by providing opportunities for participants to purchase a new home or vehicle, start or expand a small business, or pay for post- secondary education, all through their IDA accounts. These in-house financial stability resources wiiI help empower low- to-moderate income families to achieve financial stability today and prosperity tomorrow, leading to more vibrant cornmunities for us all. In its first year of operation, the J. Wayne Leonard Prosperity Center has already served more than 2,000 people referred from the City of New Orleans' Network for Economic Opportunity's Workforce Partnership Centers. These opportunity centers include Strive New Orleans, JOBI Business and Career Solutions Center, Total Community Action, Urban League of Greater New Orleans, and Goodwill Industries. And as a result of the center's successes, United Way has expanded the center's offerings to each parish of United Way's Southeast Region. A remarkable man I called my friend and neighbor, J. Wayne Leonard, the Prosperity Center's namesake and longest-serving head of Entergy Corporation, facilitated more than $50 million in charitable dondtions through Entergy aimed at moving people out of poverty and improving early childhood education. In October 2017, Mr. Leonard was awarded United Way of Southeast Louisiana's prestigious Tocqueville Society Award. During his powerful and inspiring acceptance speech, Mr. Leonard offered a sulprise gift of $1 million toward UWSELA's anti-poverty agenda. Entergy matched the generous gesture with a surprise $ 1 million gift of their own. Mr. Leonard's legacy continues to positively impact the people of Southeast Louisiana. ``It has been an honor and privilege to play a role in powering people's lives, whether by providing electricity or offering a helping hand,'' said Leonard in a previous quote. ``I am pleased that Entergy has contributed to the sustainability of the Prosperity Center, which will give local residents access to the kind of critical services that can be life changing. As lives change for the better, so do communities.'' According to the ALICE Report, the study of financial hardship conducted with the help of our partners at Entergy, low-wage jobs continue to dominate our local economy while basic costs of living continue to outpace wages. In Orleans Parish, 27 percent of our neighbors are living below the Federal Poverty Line, while more than half are living below the ALICE threshold (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed). These families and individuals include men and women, young and old, and myriad races and ethnicities. They are people that you see each and every day--the cashier at the grocely store, the server at your favorite diner--many taking on two and three jobs just to make ends meet. ALICE is unable to save for the future and is just one medical emergency, one car repair, or one harsh storm away from falling into poverty themselves. United Way has also recognized that many of our community's social issues are rooted in poverty and we've put a stake in the ground around creating innovative solutions with our partners. United, we will eradicate poverty in Southeast Louisiana. And the J. Wayne Leonard Prosperity Center is a critical step in the right direction. J. Wayne Leonard saved as the former chairman and CEO of Entergy Corporation, and passed away September 18, 2018, in New Orleans, Louisiana. Born November 22, 1950, Mr. Leonard understood first hand the vision of this prosperity Center, growing up in Greenfield, Indiana. He rose from humble childhood beginnings to become CEO of a Fortune 500 company and a thought-leader for environmental stewardship and fighting poverty. He was among the first leaders in the energy sector to call for action to stem climate change and offered policy solutions to address the issue. Mr. Leonard was also known for his humanitarian spirit and passion for social justice, giving of his time and money to support causes, especially ones to improve the lives of people living in poverty. On a more personal note, I am happy to work alongside the United Way of Southeast Louisiana supporting Louisiana's constituents working across the River Parish. Congratulations to United Way of Southeast Louisiana and its J. Wayne Leonard Prosperity Center continuing the vision of a remarkable man. May they continue to change the lives of thousands in the years to come.

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mrs. Sonia Perez as she prepares to retire after 43 successful years of service. Throughout her long career, she ultimately was responsible for leading and executing the overall strategic direction of AT&T's corporate initiatives throughout Louisiana and Kentucky. Her teams engage the collective governmental ecosystem at the state, local, and federal level to build technology infrastructure that solves economic challenges faced by urban and rural communities. Based in Baton Rouge, Sonia has led on strategy, governance and social responsibility issues within the private sector and the non- profit organizations she has chaired since she moved to Louisiana as the AT&T state president in 2010, and previously in Texas. Outside of her work AT&T Sonia serves as an Independent Director for Hancock Whitney Corporation (NASDAQ: HWC), and on the executive committees of The University of Texas Foundation, the Louisiana Board of Regents, and The National WWII Museum. Sonia remains engaged with her alma mater, The University of Texas at Austin, and was selected as a 2017 Distinguished Alumnus; having also previously received the Outstanding Young Texas Ex Award. In 2006, she was the first Latina elected president of the Texas Exes, the university's alumni association. Among her proudest distinctions is a 1996 presidential appointment by President Bill Clinton to the Advisory Council of the Border Environment Cooperation Commission, a binational organization supporting the sustainable development of environmental infrastructure on both sides of the U.S./Mexico border. She was also recognized in 2006 with the El Abrecaminos Award from the Texas Mexican American Legislative Caucus. She has chaired various boards including the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry, the state's business roundtable known as the Committee of 100, and the Board of Trustees of my Alma Mater, Xavier University of Louisiana. She also led Governor John Bel Edwards' Economic Development Transition Team and is a member of the governor's Resilient Louisiana Commission. In 2018, Sonia was named to the Merit Selection Panel for the United States District Court Eastern District of Louisiana. She has also served on the national board of the Public Broadcasting Service, PBS. Prior to being named the first woman president of AT&T Louisiana in 2010, Sonia worked in various capacities in Houston and South Texas, including as a vice president of AT&T Texas, where she was responsible for the company's initiatives throughout the Houston region. During that time, she was named the Houston Hispanic Chamber's Female Senior Executive of the Year, and served on the Houston board of J.P. Morgan Chase, and the executive committees of the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Houston Partnership. She was also a member of the Memorial Hermann Hospital System Board of Directors. Sonia has received numerous awards and distinctions including Top 100 Most Influential Latinas in 2020 by Latino Leaders Magazine, LatinaStyle Magazine 2014 Corporate Executives of the Year, 2013 Inspiracion Award from the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Louisiana, 2015 Weiss Award from the New Orleans Council for Community and Justice, 2015 Role Model from the Young Leadership Council of New Orleans. On a more personal note, Ms. Perez was someone I truly appreciated working with across New Orleans and Baton Rouge, and her leadership will truly be missed. Congratulations to Sonia as she enjoys the best days of her life in retirement.

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Liberty Bank and Trust, a financial institution celebrating 50 years of quality banking in America as the first Black-run bank in Louisiana. In November 1972, New Orleans was a city with a majority African American population. However, there were very few African Americans in elective office and limited resources for the development of African American businesses and personal wealth building. Following decades of segregation and limited voting rights, New Orleans was a city awakening to increased opportunities for its African American citizens. Dr. Norman C. Francis conceived the idea of starting an African American owned bank in New Orleans following the failure of at least two other efforts to start such an institution. In late 1971, he approached a bi-racial group of businesspeople and elected officials with the idea and was able to secure the resources to open Liberty Bank on November 16, 1972, in a bank trailer on the site of its first Headquarters Building on Tulane Avenue in New Orleans. During its first week of operations, Liberty opened over 2,000 accounts, clearly demonstrating the need for an African American owned financial institution in New Orleans. With $2 million dollars in assets, Liberty reported a substantial profit for its first year of operations and has reported profitable years 46 of its 50 years in existence The Liberty Bank Building on Tulane Avenue opened 2 years later. That same year, Liberty opened its first branch office on Gentilly Blvd. Liberty's mission is to provide cost-effective delivery of high quality, innovative, customer driven financial products and services to diverse markets with a focus on disadvantaged minority communities who have traditionally been underserved. Concurrent with the bank's mission, Liberty strives to maintain the company's status as a catalyst for economic and community development while generating fair returns to shareholders and being an excellent corporate citizen. Some of the members of the bi-racial group that worked with Dr. Francis in the early years to get the bank started included: C.C. Dejoie--Publisher, Louisiana Weekly Judge Ernest N. ``Dutch'' Morial, Then State Senator Mike O'Keefe Judge Israel Augustine Owen Brennan, Jr., Prominent Restaurant owner William J. Connick Benjamin J. Johnson, Esq. Ambrose J. Pratt, Jr., MD Dr. Langston F. Reed, Local Dentist and Activist Norman P. Zucker Joseph O. Misshore Ms. Jesse W. Cook Joseph E. Berrigan, Jr. Ben D. Bridgeman Joseph G. Landrieu, Jr. Jennings Courville Tricon (Clem) Sehrt A key development in the early years was the financing of Doley Securities', the first Black seat on the New York Stock Exchange owned by Harold Doley, Jr., becoming the only African American in its history to do so. The bank's additional key notes include asset growth over first 20 years, mortgages processed, work with National Bankers Association and community outreach efforts. Once committed to opening an African American owned bank, Dr. Francis secured the only African American working above the level of teller in any bank in the New Orleans community to run the bank. That was Alden McDonald, joining the bank at the ripe age of 29 years old. Effective May 2, 2022, the board of directors of Liberty Bank and Trust Company announced that Todd O. McDonald was named the bank's president. Liberty's former President and CEO Alden J. McDonald Jr., Todd's father, continues to lead the Liberty Financial Holding Company. Dr. Francis is still chair of the Liberty Bank Board 50 years later, and Alden McDonald was one of the longest serving African American Bank Presidents in America. Liberty Bank established its Baton Rouge presence in 1994 and opened a third branch in 2004. Liberty then moved into Mississippi in 2003, acquiring First American Bank in Jackson. This was followed by expansion into the Greater Kansas City market with the acquisition of Douglass bank in Kansas City, Kansas, and Kansas City, Missouri, in 2008. Liberty Bank and Trust Company expanded across Greater New Orleans with the 2009 acquisition of United Bank and Trust Company, securing four additional locations to serve that market. That was followed by the acquisition of Home Federal Savings in Detroit, Michigan, which increased the bank's reach to six states. In 2013, Liberty Bank entered the Chicago market with the acquisition of Covenant Bank of Illinois, and in 2015, the bank expanded to Montgomery and Tuskegee, Alabama through the purchase of First Tuskegee Bank. Liberty Bank's growth has been the result of acquisitions, fruitful partnerships, aggressive marketing, strong management, staff productivity and the trust it enjoys in the community. It all adds up to an efficient, well-capitalized institution that is perfectly positioned to continue fast-paced growths in both profits and assets. Liberty Bank is passionate about helping more people achieve more economic freedom. Today Liberty Bank is the largest financial institution in the United States owned by African Americans. It has assets of more than $1 billion dollars, a customer base of over 40,000 accounts with 175 employees, and still growing, while recognized as one of the fastest growing financial institutions in the country. Todd McDonald said in a press release, ``I've been singularly driven to build solid stakeholder partnerships and evolve financial products which meet the financial needs of an ever-changing world. This next 50 years will be extraordinary as we reshape our culture, talent and organizational capabilities which will make us more agile, more competitive, and more effective in our efforts to close the wealth gap in underserved communities across the country.'' A huge congratulations to New Orleans' home-grown financial institution, celebrating their Golden Anniversary New Orleans' with a promising future ahead of them.

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (S. 3092) to amend the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act to improve the provision of certain disaster assistance, and for other purposes, as amended.

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on S. 3092, as amended.

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise in support of S. 3092, the FIRE Act. This legislation led by Representative Lofgren in the House and Senator Padilla in the Senate is designed to ensure FEMA's preparedness and response efforts address the unique nature of wildfires. The bulk of FEMA's programs are designed to serve the victims of disasters caused by floods and hurricanes. However, climate change has made the threat of wildfire in communities grow each year. FEMA must serve all disaster survivors equally and adapt their programs to meet the challenges of wildfires. This legislation encourages FEMA to predeploy assets during times of high risk of fire, evaluates public assistance eligibility post-fire, addresses equity of assistance for Tribal communities, and requires trainings for crisis counselors and caseworkers to ensure that they are equipped to meet the needs of economically disadvantaged survivors. I support this effort and ask my colleagues to do the same. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana. Madam Speaker, I yield 4 minutes to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Lofgren), the author of this outstanding piece of legislation.

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana. Madam Speaker, in closing, it is time that communities impacted by wildfires receive the same quality of assistance as communities impacted by hurricanes and floods. S. 3092 addresses the threat of fire head-on and will make communities safer. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this good legislation, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana. Madam Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 8416) to improve individual assistance provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and for other purposes, as amended.

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on H.R. 8416, as amended.

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 8416. This legislation, introduced by Subcommittee Chair Dina Titus, significantly improves disaster assistance programs for individuals and families. It is undeniable that climate change has transformed the nature and severity of natural disasters in the United States. This has caused real and devastating impacts for those who find themselves living in the path of these disasters. Their lives will be upended by the loss of savings, homes, loved ones, and peace of mind. Survivors turn to their government, especially to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, for support after what may have been the worst day of their lives. We know this by firsthand experience in my home State of Louisiana. In Congress, we must do everything in our power to ensure that Federal Government offers a hand of support that is fair, capable, and compassionate. This package includes several key provisions to improve disaster assistance programs and survivor outcomes. First, this package will create universal application for direct Federal assistance and enable Federal agencies to share relevant disaster assistance information with each other. The bureaucracy of the current application and evaluation process can leave survivors so overwhelmed that they give up hope on accessing the aid they are, in fact, entitled to. I have heard this from my own constituents. It is a travesty. It adds insult to injury. That is why I support this substantial step forward to cut red tape, streamline survivors' access to assistance, and reduce the time it takes for our communities to recover. Second, this legislation gives FEMA new authorities that significantly expand the agency's ability to make disaster damaged homes more resilient. It is common sense to encourage mitigation activities in disaster-prone areas. Homes that were impacted once by a disaster are likely to be impacted again, and those hard-hit households may need extra help to rebuild stronger. Third, several amendments were made to the Stafford Act which enables FEMA to support innovative post-disaster housing solutions. Natural disasters can exacerbate housing crises already existing in communities much like those which I represent. This bill seeks to help. For example, it authorizes the agency to provide direct repair assistance to homeowners, which may reduce the amount of time survivors spend in temporary shelters or housing before returning home. It also authorizes FEMA to reimburse States that implement their own innovative post-disaster housing solutions. Lastly, this legislation includes a series of reports and studies that may identify existing challenges in the administration of current post-disaster housing programs and propose new solutions. H.R. 8416 is designed to put survivors first and get them back on their feet after disasters faster. Disasters recognize no boundaries, and we must in turn strengthen and continually improve our disaster preparedness, response, and recovery systems from sea to shining sea. Madam Speaker, I am proud to support this effort, and I reserve the balance of my time. House of Representatives, Committee on Small Business, Washington, DC, September 23, 2022. Hon. Peter A. DeFazio, Chairman, Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Chairman DeFazio: I am writing with respect to H.R. 8416, the ``Disaster Survivors Fairness Act of 2022''. Thank you for consulting with the Committee on Small Business regarding the matters in H.R. 8416 that fall within the Committee's jurisdiction. As a result of your consultation with us on this measure and in order to expeditiously move the bill to the floor, I forego further consideration of H.R. 8416. The Committee on Small Business takes this action with our mutual understanding that we do not waive any jurisdiction over the subject matter contained in this or similar legislation, and the Committee will be appropriately consulted and involved as the bill or similar legislation moves forward so that we may address any remaining issues that fall within our jurisdiction. Further, I request your support for the appointment of an appropriate number of conferees from the Committee on Small Business during any House-Senate conference involving this or similar legislation. Finally, I would appreciate your response to this letter confirming our understanding regarding H.R. 8416 and would ask that a copy of our exchange of letters on this matter be included in the Committee Report and the Congressional Record during floor consideration of the measure. Thank you for the cooperative spirit in which you have worked regarding this matter and others between our respective committees. Sincerely, Nydia M. Velazquez, Chairwoman.

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana. Madam Speaker, I yield such time as she may consume to the distinguished gentlewoman from Nevada (Ms. Titus), who is the author of this legislation.

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, this legislation includes a series of reforms that will streamline Federal assistance and benefit survivors like they have never been benefited before. It is our duty to make disaster assistance fair and accessible to each and every survivor. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this good, bipartisan legislation, and I applaud my colleagues for joining us in working in unison to do what is best for the American people. I completely support this incredible legislation, and I urge my colleagues to do the same. Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana

Mr. CARTER of Louisiana. Madam Speaker, pursuant to section 2 of House Resolution 1464, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bills: H.R. 4275, H.R. 5502, H.R. 5721, H.R. 6290, H.R. 7277, H.R. 7299, and H.R. 8416.