Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Mike Wallace for his many years of service to South Carolina. Through 28 years of work with the York Baptist Association, Mike has helped strengthen local churches, I support missions, and bring people together through faith and service.

Mike was born and raised in Charleston, South Carolina, before moving to York County in 1993. He answered his call to ministry during his freshman year at North Greenville University in 1980. He continued his education at Baptist College of Charleston and later earned a Master of Divinity from Southwestern Theological Seminary. These experiences helped prepare him for a life dedicated to ministry and serving others.

As Mike began his work in ministry, he came to recognize a particular calling to missions. While serving as an associate pastor, he led his church on nine mission trips and witnessed firsthand the difference these efforts could make in people's lives. Seeing individuals and communities grow through these experiences helped shape his path and ultimately led him to dedicate his career to mission development and outreach.

In 1998, Mike joined the York Baptist Association as Mission Development Director, helping local churches carry out their missions and reach more people through the Gospel. He later became Missions Strategist in 2016, a role that allowed him to deepen his understanding of York County and the needs of its communities. Through this work, he helped churches build connections, strengthen their outreach, and fulfill their shared mission of making disciples and reaching people for Christ. His years of service reflect a commitment to helping local congregations make a meaningful difference in the lives of those around them.

Throughout his career, Mike has demonstrated that service is about more than holding a position. It is about building relationships, supporting others, and remaining committed to a purpose greater than oneself. His work has left a lasting mark on the York Baptist Association and the broader community. Through his leadership and dedication, he has helped strengthen the churches and relationships that will continue this work for years to come.

Mike's commitment to faith and service has also been supported by his family. He and his wife, Tammy, have been married for more than 40 years and have raised two sons, Michael and Joshua. Together, they have built a family grounded in faith, service, and commitment to others. Their support has been an important part of Mike's life and the work he has carried out throughout his career.

I congratulate Mike Wallace on his retirement and thank him for 28 years of dedicated service to the York Baptist Association and the people of South Carolina. His commitment to ministry, missions, and his community leaves a legacy that will continue to benefit others for generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize First Baptist Church of Blacksburg, South Carolina, for nearly 150 years of ministry.

First Baptist Church of Blacksburg was organized on December 4, 1876, as Berea Baptist Church. It grew out of Antioch Baptist Church, which originated from Buffalo Baptist Church, one of the oldest churches in South Carolina. Reverend W.L. Brown served as its first pastor and led a congregation of fifty. The original church building stood near the corner of Highway 29 and Mountain Street, where it served not only as a place of worship but also as a school and meeting hall.

As the congregation grew, church leaders began planning for a new facility. In 1909, B. J. Gold, J.F. Cline, R.A. Westbrooks, Mary Earle, and Ed Turner formed a committee to find a suitable location. After an initial land donation fell through, the church purchased property at the corner of Cherokee and Rutherford Streets for $500 under the leadership of Reverend C.W. Payseur. Construction began in the spring of 1912, and the first service was held that June. With the move to its new building, the congregation adopted the name First Baptist Church of Blacksburg.

Over the decades, First Baptist Church of Blacksburg has continued to grow and adapt to meet the needs of its congregation and the surrounding community. As the church expanded, it invested in its facilities and created more opportunities for worship, fellowship, and community activities. These efforts reflect the commitment of generations of members who have worked to sustain the church's ministry and ensure it remains an important part of life in Blacksburg. Through periods of growth and change, the congregation has remained dedicated to sharing the Gospel and providing a place where people can gather in faith and fellowship.

In January 2025, First Baptist Church of Blacksburg called Dr. Wayne Brown as its 31st pastor. Dr. Brown is the first pastor in the church's history to have been raised in the congregation, ordained there, and called to lead it. His appointment is a meaningful milestone for the church and reflects the strong ties it has maintained with the community across generations. As the congregation looks to the future, it does so with a history shaped by faithful leadership and the continued commitment of its members.

As First Baptist Church of Blacksburg approaches its 150th anniversary this December, its history serves as a reminder of the lasting contributions that local churches make to their communities. For nearly a century and a half, the congregation has brought people together through worship, fellowship, and service. Its continued presence in Blacksburg reflects the faith, generosity, and dedication of those who have helped build and sustain its ministry. The church's legacy is not only found in its history but also in the generations of people whose lives have been touched by its work.

I congratulate First Baptist Church of Blacksburg on nearly 150 years of ministry and commend its congregation for its longstanding commitment to the people of Blacksburg and the surrounding community. I am grateful for the role the church has played in South Carolina and pray for God's continued blessings on its congregation and its ministry for generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Bobby Plair, a South Carolinian whose legacy reflects unwavering leadership, patriotism, and excellence.

Born in Rock Hill, South Carolina on March 22, 1927, Bobby grew up in the Crawford Road community where he spent most of his life. Shortly after graduating Friendship High School in 1945, Bobby served in the United States Marine Corps and trained at Montford Point, North Carolina. The Montford Point Marines were the first African Americans to serve in the United States Marine Corps. At a time when African American recruits were segregated and excluded from job opportunities given to their fellow servicemen, these recruits demonstrated excellence and helped further the integration of our Armed Forces. Bobby was assigned to Saipan, an island in the Pacific, where he served until the end of World War II. In 2012, Bobby was recognized for that service and was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, the Nation's highest civilian honor.

After being honorably discharged in 1946, Bobby earned his degree from North Carolina A&T and began his career as an educator, band director, and musician. Bobby's first pursuit was sparking a passion for music in students. After starting school bands in Foil Mill and Great Falls, Bobby served as chorale director at Clinton Junior College in his home community. Bobby later went to Finley High School as the band director and taught in Chester, South Carolina.

While teaching, Bobby was an entrepreneur and ran several businesses. One of those businesses was a Plairs grocery store located on Simrill Street in Rock Hill. The store became a staple of the community and has been in business for over five decades. Bobby was also very successful in real estate, purchasing and renting property across Rock Hill. His most notable purchase was the Old Herman Church on Dave Lyle Boulevard, where he attended church. The church is also the site of the first school for African Americans in Rock Hill, an important place during the civil rights movement.

Through all of his professional achievements, Bobby was a devoted family man. He and his wife Juanita had been married for over fifty years and raised three children, Sarah, Victor, and Bobby, Jr., who shared his love of music. Bobby was truly a man of strong character, whose life's work has made a meaningful impact on countless individuals.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the people of South Carolina, I am proud to recognize Bobby's unmatched commitment to our Nation, state, and community. His servant leadership leaves a legacy that will continue to inspire generatIons to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a gentleman who represents the epitome of success in this great country where we just celebrated our 250th anniversary, Mr. Carlos Salas. Mr. Salas is with us today with his son, Martin, and his granddaughter, Gabriela. He is a remarkable man whose life is a powerful testament to perseverance, hard work, and living the American Dream.

Carlos was born in Argentina and grew up under an authoritarian regime. After his father's newspaper published editorials opposing the regime, Carlos and his family were forced to flee their home. Their journey took them across South America. Carlos later pursued an education in England where he learned English.

In 1955, after the regime's dictator was exiled, Carlos was finally able to return to Argentina. However, following a family tragedy, he found himself on his own at just 15 years of age. He supported himself by continuing his education, working at ports as a translator, and even playing billiards to make ends meet. He later entered the army in Argentina to fulfill his military obligation.

By age 19, Carlos was studying industrial engineering while becoming a well-known billiards and chess player at a local social club. His skills even gave him the opportunity to compete against recognized players like Bobby Fischer. After graduating, Carlos pursued both his engineering career and his entrepreneurial interests, working for a manufacturing firm while also owning the Eliot Ness Club.

During this time, Carlos married his wife, Ada Cristina Salas, an accomplished female engineer who worked on the development of rocket propellants. In 1971, they welcomed their first son Carlos Salas.

Then, in 1973, the regime's dictator returned to Argentina from exile. Once again faced with political uncertainty, Carlos and Cristina made the difficult decision to leave their homeland. This time, they set their sights on the United States of America.

In 1974, while Christina was pregnant with their second son, Martin Salas, Carlos and his family legally immigrated to Connecticut to pursue the American Dream.

Their beginnings in America were humble, but Carlos and his family embraced the freedom and opportunity this country offered them. They became active participants in democracy, including serving as delegates to the Republican National Convention in 1994. Carlos proudly became a naturalized American citizen in 2011.

Carlos went on to build an impressive career in the color and paint industry. Drawing upon his engineering background and command of multiple languages, he directed international sales and helped bring advanced American color systems to markets all around the world. Through hard work, Carlos grew a $200,000 division of a company into a $20 million operation.

In 1993, he and his family made South Carolina their official home. Then, in 2001, the family took a leap of faith and went into business for themselves, purchasing their own paint equipment company. Together, they successfully grew and operated their manufacturing company for more than a decade before selling the business and retiring to the great State of South Carolina.

Carlos remains an active member of his community, including service with the Lions Club and the Schmoozer Club. He has never lost his competitive spirit. He still enjoys chess, poker, and an occasional game of billiards. Most importantly, he is deeply loved by his family, including his children and his seven granddaughters.

It is impossible to capture the full measure of a man's life in just a few minutes, especially a life as remarkable as Carlos Salas' has been.

His story began under an authoritarian government and ultimately brought him to the freest and greatest nation on Earth, what we call America. This is the American Dream.

Mr. Speaker, Carlos has made South Carolina and our Nation better through his determination, ingenuity, and devotion to his family and community. It is a privilege to recognize him in the House of Representatives today.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a gentleman who represents the epitome of success in this great country where we just celebrated our 250th anniversary, Mr. Carlos Salas. Mr. Salas is with us today with his son, Martin, and his granddaughter, Gabriela. He is a remarkable man whose life is a powerful testament to perseverance, hard work, and living the American Dream.

Carlos was born in Argentina and grew up under an authoritarian regime. After his father's newspaper published editorials opposing the regime, Carlos and his family were forced to flee their home. Their journey took them across South America. Carlos later pursued an education in England where he learned English.

In 1955, after the regime's dictator was exiled, Carlos was finally able to return to Argentina. However, following a family tragedy, he found himself on his own at just 15 years of age. He supported himself by continuing his education, working at ports as a translator, and even playing billiards to make ends meet. He later entered the army in Argentina to fulfill his military obligation.

By age 19, Carlos was studying industrial engineering while becoming a well-known billiards and chess player at a local social club. His skills even gave him the opportunity to compete against recognized players like Bobby Fischer. After graduating, Carlos pursued both his engineering career and his entrepreneurial interests, working for a manufacturing firm while also owning the Eliot Ness Club.

During this time, Carlos married his wife, Ada Cristina Salas, an accomplished female engineer who worked on the development of rocket propellants. In 1971, they welcomed their first son Carlos Salas.

Then, in 1973, the regime's dictator returned to Argentina from exile. Once again faced with political uncertainty, Carlos and Cristina made the difficult decision to leave their homeland. This time, they set their sights on the United States of America.

In 1974, while Christina was pregnant with their second son, Martin Salas, Carlos and his family legally immigrated to Connecticut to pursue the American Dream.

Their beginnings in America were humble, but Carlos and his family embraced the freedom and opportunity this country offered them. They became active participants in democracy, including serving as delegates to the Republican National Convention in 1994. Carlos proudly became a naturalized American citizen in 2011.

Carlos went on to build an impressive career in the color and paint industry. Drawing upon his engineering background and command of multiple languages, he directed international sales and helped bring advanced American color systems to markets all around the world. Through hard work, Carlos grew a $200,000 division of a company into a $20 million operation.

In 1993, he and his family made South Carolina their official home. Then, in 2001, the family took a leap of faith and went into business for themselves, purchasing their own paint equipment company. Together, they successfully grew and operated their manufacturing company for more than a decade before selling the business and retiring to the great State of South Carolina.

Carlos remains an active member of his community, including service with the Lions Club and the Schmoozer Club. He has never lost his competitive spirit. He still enjoys chess, poker, and an occasional game of billiards. Most importantly, he is deeply loved by his family, including his children and his seven granddaughters.

It is impossible to capture the full measure of a man's life in just a few minutes, especially a life as remarkable as Carlos Salas' has been.

His story began under an authoritarian government and ultimately brought him to the freest and greatest nation on Earth, what we call America. This is the American Dream.

Mr. Speaker, Carlos has made South Carolina and our Nation better through his determination, ingenuity, and devotion to his family and community. It is a privilege to recognize him in the House of Representatives today.

Mr. Speaker, I thank Congresswoman Hageman for leading this charge.

As a proud member of the Congressional Trucking Caucus and as a Member who has had my CDL for 35 years or more, I rise today in recognition of National Truck Driver Appreciation Week and the hardworking men and women who keep America moving.

We talk a lot in this Chamber about what makes our economy work. Well, the answer is pretty simple. It takes people who are willing to work. American truck drivers do exactly that.

Nearly 3.6 million professional truck drivers are on our roads today, delivering the food on our tables, the medicine in our pharmacies, the materials on our construction sites, and the products that keep American businesses running.

In South Carolina, we know just how important these men and women are. Nearly 80 percent of South Carolina communities depend exclusively on trucks to move their goods. Trucks transport nearly 94 percent of our State's manufacturing tonnage, roughly 149,000 tons every single day.

There are more than 21,000 trucking companies located in South Carolina. The vast majority of them are small, locally owned businesses.

Those numbers tell the story. If the trucks stop moving, South Carolina stops moving. Behind every one of those trucks is a driver. These are men and women who wake up early, work long hours, spend time away from their families, and take on tremendous responsibility every time they get behind the wheel.

They do it because there is a job to be done. A lot of times bureaucrats don't understand that, and government should remember that.

Truckers already pay licensing fees and taxes while using our roads and bridges that are necessary to do their jobs. We should be making it easier for these hardworking Americans to earn a living, not piling on unnecessary costs and burdens on top.

While we stand up for our truck drivers, we also have a responsibility to protect the integrity of the profession. That is why I am proud to cosponsor the SAFE Driving Laws Act. This bill says States should not be handing out driver's licenses or commercial driver's licenses to those who cannot prove that they are a U.S. citizen or have a permanent residency, while at the same time refusing to cooperate with Federal immigration enforcement.

States that refuse to follow these basic standards could lose 50 percent of certain Federal highway funding. This is about accountability. A CDL is not just another piece of paper. When someone gets behind the wheel of an 80,000 pound truck, Americans have every right to expect that the driver was properly vetted, properly licensed, and qualified to be on the road. That principle goes far beyond any one bill.

More than 72 percent of our Nation's freight tonnage is moved by trucks, and more than 80 percent of American communities rely exclusively on trucks for their freight needs.

I thank the truckers in this country from the bottom of my heart. I thank them for the miles they drive. I thank them for the time they spend away from their home. I thank them for everything they do.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of Mr. Biggs' constitutional amendment.

As Congressman Jordan mentioned, this is serious business. Just like it is serious business about what the other party did on letting 20 to who knows illegals in this country to create a power base. That is who you are going to have to answer to, the public. That is who this country is paying for now. The 20 to 30, who knows, illegals in this country.

Why don't you pass the SAVE Act, which is just a verification that you are an American citizen to vote? This is following a dangerous path, and I am glad the citizens are finally showing up to recognize the problem that we have with this.

Just the other day, my Democratic colleague Jim Clyburn said he wants to pack the Court with 13 Justices. I couldn't disagree more. South Carolina doesn't need a baker's dozen of Supreme Court Justices. We need politicians to respect the independence of the nine that we already have.

Court packing was a bad idea when FDR tried it in 1937. It is a bad idea today. Even members of his own party pushed back against this scheme. FDR wanted to reshape the Supreme Court that was standing in the way of his agenda. The same principle is at work here today: When you don't like the ruling, change the Court.

The Constitution does not guarantee either party the Supreme Court decisions it wants. Losing a case is not justification for adding Justices. Thirteen is not some magic number. Once politicians start changing the size of the Court to get favorable rulings, there is no logical stopping point. Today it is 13. Tomorrow it could be 17 and then 21. That would turn the Supreme Court into just another political arm of Congress.

Mr. Speaker, you don't protect democracy by changing the rules every time you lose. You protect it by respecting our institutions, even when you disagree with the outcomes. The answer is to take Court packing off the table permanently, which is why I support this.

Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. Biggs for bringing this amendment up. The fact that we are having to debate this and fight what this leftwing socialist group is trying to do to this country is serious.

Mr. Speaker, first of all, I thank Congressman Wilson for organizing this tribute to a dear friend of all of us, not only in South Carolina but all over every State in this country.

I wish everyone could have been in the Senate well when Darline, his sister, took the oath of office from the President pro-tempore of the Senate and then took the desk that Lindsey had occupied for 24 years in the Senate. It was moving. It was a tribute to Lindsey Graham that she was able to do this and appointed by Governor McMaster.

Lindsey understood that success in South Carolina meant looking out for every South Carolinian. Whether it was a major defense project or a small-town infrastructure need, he fought to bring Federal resources back to South Carolina and make sure that every corner of our State had a voice in Washington, D.C.

From securing the Medal of Honor for a marine, Major James Capers--it was a 5-year timeframe to work to get Major Capers the Medal of Honor, Lindsey was a part of that--to supporting our military installations, strengthening our border security, defending the rights of States and advancing priorities that benefit South Carolina, we worked side-by- side on issues that mattered to those back home.

He believed in delivering results, not just making speeches. He knew that the work of elected officials is measured by what they accomplish for the people they represent, and he consistently fought to ensure that South Carolina received its fair share of opportunities.

We didn't have to agree on every issue. Lindsey never had an enemy that I knew of, and you could disagree with him while not being disagreeable.

When there was an opportunity to move the State forward, Lindsey was willing to put the work in. This was evidenced to me when I went on a trip to Munich, Germany, back in 2020. I think it was a 4-day trip.

I watched him go to every meeting of every country that was there primarily to share our ideas and to bring companies back to the United States, which benefited every State in the Union. He had a passion for that, particularly a passion for Ukraine and other countries that he had a belief in.

His legacy will include far more than legislation. He will be remembered in the communities that benefited from his advocacy, the veterans he fought for, the historic sites he worked to preserve, and the love he continuously included and worked for for countless South Carolinians.

Lives were improved, families benefited from the efforts that they showed. He had a constituency staff second to none. If you called Lindsey Graham's office, he did what he could to help you out, regardless of whether you were from South Carolina or not.

He was a funny man. Like any good comedian, it is not what he said, it is how he said it.

Lindsey Graham made his life work for the betterment of South Carolina and the betterment of others. He will be sorely missed in this State and sorely missed by Darline, who he raised and adopted after both parents died.

We thank him for a life well lived. Again, I thank Joe for having this moment to recognize a great man.

Mr. Speaker, one of the real privileges of serving in Congress in the United States House of Representatives is to be able to recognize ordinary people who have done extraordinary deeds in their life. It is special today, June 30, 2026, because in 4 days we will celebrate the 250th anniversary of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and honor the life of a remarkable American: Rosemary Noel Combs of Pineville, Kentucky, who passed away on May 3 of this year at the extraordinary age of 100.

Born on the Fourth of July in 1925, Rosemary embodied the very essence of the American Dream, through her lifetime defined by faith, family, service, and the enduring strength of the American spirit.

Rosemary was raised in Pennsylvania, where she studied at the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics, mastering communications, meteorology, the Morse code, and airline operations. Her work with Capital Airlines, and later the Pennsylvania Railroad, reflected both her intelligence and her intense determination during a transformative era in history. But, truly, it was in Pineville, Kentucky, where Rosemary would leave her greatest mark.

After marrying Robert Mason ``Doc'' Combs in 1954, Rosemary immersed herself in service to her new community. She and her husband opened the beloved Flocoe Drug Store and Diner, an establishment renowned throughout Bell County for the warmth, generosity, and the sense of real fellowship Rosemary extended to every person who visited.

To generations of Pineville residents, Rosemary was more than a local businessowner. She was a counselor, volunteer, faithful servant, mentor, and friend. Whether through the Pineville Women's Club, the Rotary Club, the Bell County Chamber of Commerce, or through several decades of faithful service to St. Anthony's Catholic Church, Rosemary dedicated her life to serving others.

At her funeral, a member of the community recalled a moment when Rosemary gave him medicine he could not afford for a sick child. Such quiet acts of compassion were the very essence of her being.

Perhaps no tribute to Rosemary's life speaks louder than the fact that over 800 people gathered at her funeral, nearly half the town of Pineville. You have got to remember. She was 100 years old, and very few of her friends were still around. She had 800 friends.

Her legacy lives on through her 6 children, 16 grandchildren, and 22 great-grandchildren.

In an age that often celebrates fame and fortune, Rosemary reminds us that the true measure of one's life is found in service, kindness, faith, and love of your neighbor.

Today, we honor not only a wonderful woman, but a generation of Americans whose quiet strength built communities all across this great Nation.

Mr. Speaker, may Rosemary's memory continue to inspire the United States of America and all who were blessed to know her. She epitomizes the phrase to live is to serve. She did so admirably.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Loyd Ardrey of South Carolina. Loyd was renowned throughout Rock Hill as a central part of the community and was deeply beloved by all those who encountered him.

Loyd grew up in Rock Hill and attended Winthrop Training School before graduating from Rock Hill High School. He attended Spartanburg Junior College and then served our great Nation in the United States National Guard.

After his time of service, Loyd returned home to work in the printing industry with his father at Record Printing. He was successful in the printing business, eventually opening his own company, Regal Graphics, where he worked for many years.

It was in 2003 that Loyd first established Ebenezer Grill. Under his leadership, The Grill, as it was known, quickly became a famous establishment in both Rock Hill and the entire State.

Loyd was known as the owner of the best hot dog and barbecue place in town, and The Grill became a household name. Under his direction, the restaurant attracted customers from all over with its incredible food, low prices, and welcoming atmosphere.

Loyd himself was the magic behind it all, welcoming anyone, with the utmost generosity and kindness. Whether it was young people, businesspeople, or construction workers, he was a true friend to all.

Loyd was also a quiet philanthropist. Ever humble, he quietly supported Dorothy Day Soup Kitchen, Haven Men's Shelter, and many other important causes throughout the community. He would annually host a hot dog-eating contest on the Fourth of July, where all the proceeds went to charity.

Loyd was a man of deep faith. He faithfully attended Westminster Presbyterian Church and was committed to the Sunday school community there.

Mr. Loyd Ardrey passed away on May 15 of this year at the age of 77. Since his passing, hundreds have spoken about the deep impact he made on their lives. His legacy is truly undeniable.

I am honored to recognize Mr. Loyd Ardrey for a life that was well lived.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Charles Augustus Wood, a man of exceptional character and an outstanding leader from Kershaw County, South Carolina.

Charles has spent his life in South Carolina and has become a central part of both his community and, notably, of Sutton Branch Baptist Church.

Charles grew up farming in South Carolina and attending Sutton Baptist Church in Lugoff. He attended Wood's School and later went on to graduate as third in his class from Jackson High School in 1954. Just a few years later, he married his beautiful wife, Gladys, in 1959. It was after hearing a sermon at Sutton Branch Baptist Church that Charles first felt a calling to give his life to Christ, a calling that he followed at the age of 24 when he was baptized.

Charles immersed himself in his church community, ushering, assisting community members in getting to church on Sundays, teaching Sunday school, serving as Sunday school superintendent, and filling various other roles wherever he was needed. He immersed himself in every part of Church life, including in the men's choir, and in Christian education conventions to broaden his understanding of God's word.

He was one of the first trustees initiated at Sutton Branch Baptist Church, and helped to establish a burial committee at the Church. In 1977, Charles was invited to serve as an armor bearer for pastors and to minister to the congregation as a deacon at Sutton Baptist. He was soon after ordained deacon in January of 1977. What an honor.

Since that time, Charles has worked tirelessly to counsel numerous individuals, to celebrate births and baptisms, to visit the sick, lead church administration, make visits to hospitals, mentor church youth, and so much more. He has constantly been a force for joy and a pillar of wisdom, acting as a confidant to any who might need it, and an aid to pastors as he served as a deacon.

Charles went on to become Vice Chairman of the Deacon Board, and later on Chairman. He has faithfully watched over multiple generations at Sutton Baptist, and throughout his time at Sutton, has been a constant devoted witness to Christ.

In both 1971 and 1972, Charles was recognized with the Man of the Year Award, and was presented with a plaque for outstanding service to Sutton Baptist in 1996. He was again honored with a Certificate of Appreciation in 2023. In 2024, Deacon Charles was recognized as the Oldest Living Active Member of Sutton Baptist.

His accomplishments are outstanding. Deacon Charles will be resigning as Chairman of the Deacon Board and as deacon on May 31, 2026. He has been, and always will be, an invaluable part of the Church and community which he has so faithfully served. His life of mentorship, faithfulness, and true servitude will never be forgotten.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor a true public servant, Chief Russell Roark, whose life has been defined by dedication, by integrity, and by exceptional service to the people of Union County and the entire State of South Carolina.

Chief Roark first began his career in public safety in 1962, over 64 years ago, when he joined the City of Union Fire Department. Just one year later, he joined the Union City Police Department. Through hard work, professionalism, and steady leadership, Chief Roark quickly advanced through the ranks, becoming assistant chief of police in 1975, then chief of police in 1982.

In 1983, he played a pivotal role in the merger of the Union City Police Department and the City of Union Fire Department into a single unified agency, known as the Union Public Safety Department. He became its first director, and under his leadership, the department earned South Carolina law enforcement accreditation, becoming the first law enforcement agency in Union County to achieve such a distinction and honor.

Chief Roark also made lasting improvements to the community fire service division, emphasizing advanced training and the importance of strong fire prevention efforts. Thanks to his leadership, the department earned a class 2 ISO rating, which is the Insurance Services Office, an achievement that enhanced public safety while reducing insurance costs for the residents and businesses all across Union County.

After 40 years of service, Chief Roark retired from the Union County Public Safety Department in 2003, but his commitment to serving others did not end there. He returned just 2 days later to work with the Union County Sheriff's Department, where he served as a patrol deputy and the civil process deputy.

In 2021, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster awarded Roark with the Order of the Palmetto, which is the State's highest civilian honor.

Chief Roark officially retired from law enforcement in November of last

year after 63 years of public service. This is an outstanding achievement. His career represents a lifetime devoted to protecting others and strengthening the community he so proudly called home.

His legacy is not confined to the number of years he has served, which is no doubt historic, but it is immortalized in the many lives that he touched, the standard that he continually set, and example that he leaves behind. Chief Roark's dedication, his faith, and his integrity have made a lasting impression on everyone in Union County and will continue to inspire future generations of public servants to follow in his footsteps.

I am proud to recognize Chief Russell Roark and thank him for his lifetime of extraordinary service and commitment to the people of Union County and to the entire State of South Carolina.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the career of a true patriot. I rise today to recognize and honor a true public servant, Chief Russell Roark, whose life has been defined by dedication, defined by integrity, and defined by exceptional service to the people of Union County and the entire State of South Carolina.

Chief Roark first began his career in public safety in 1962, when he joined the City of Union Fire Department. Just 1 year later, he joined the City of Union Police Department. Through hard work, professionalism, and steady leadership, Chief Roark quickly advanced through the ranks, becoming assistant chief of police in 1975 and then chief of police in 1982.

In 1983, he played a pivotal role in the merger of the City of Union Police and Fire Departments into a single unified agency known as the Union Public Safety Department. He became its first director, and under his leadership, the department earned South Carolina Law Enforcement Accreditation, becoming the first law enforcement agency in Union County to achieve such a distinction.

Chief Roark also made lasting improvements to the community fire service division, emphasizing advanced training and the importance of strong fire prevention efforts.

Thanks to his leadership, the department earned a Class 2 ISO rating, an achievement that enhanced public safety while reducing insurance costs for all the residents and businesses across the county.

In conclusion, Chief Roark is the definition of a true public servant.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Mrs. Janis Blocker, a South Carolinian whose legacy and impact on those around her has been nothing short of remarkable.

Janis was born in Colleton County in 1938. Following what she saw as God's calling for her, she became a devoted teacher for many years and was deeply beloved by all of her students.

She first attended Charleston Southern University where she graduated summa cum laude and later received a master's degree in teaching English from The Citadel in 1981. That is the degree that she used to teach for over 49 years.

She taught a range of topics, including English honors and journalism, and was heavily involved in the State education system. Her students honored her with Teacher of the Year in 1987, and she had a yearbook dedicated to her as a testament to her hard work spanning many years.

Janis is also known for her complete dedication to her local community, serving for all of the 24 years as a chair of the Colleton County Republican Party and as a delegate to three national Presidential conventions.

She was even recognized with the Dr. James B. Edwards Award for her dedicated and conspicuous service to the South Carolina Republican Party. These achievements are nothing short of exceptional.

She is now the vice chair of the Colleton County Board of Elections and has served as a chair of the Colleton County Library Board of Trustees from 2019 to this day, as well as a longstanding member of the Colleton Library Board of Trustees.

Janis has served as a board member of the Colleton County Board of Voter Registrations and Elections. She served two terms on the County Council and is a former member of the United Way board. As if this wasn't enough, she is also a member and officer of the South Carolina Artisans Center Board and the Colleton Historical Society.

Faith has always been an integral part of her life story. Janis not only graduated from the South Carolina School of Theology, but she is a lifelong member of the Bethel Presbyterian Church in Walterboro, South Carolina, where she has been a choir director for 67 years.

She was also a clerk of sessions at Bethel Presbyterian Church for 25 years, among many other church activities.

Her outstanding life's work has led her to receive numerous awards. Janis received the Walterboro-Colleton Chamber of Commerce Lifetime Achievement Award; the Walterboro-Colleton Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Achievement in Education Award; the First Star of the Southeast award from Delta Kappa Gamma Southeastern District; the State Achievement Award from the State teachers' society, Alpha Eta State; and the Order of the Rose award from the Zeta chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma.

I would be remiss to omit that she has a husband, a beautiful family, and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

This is only an inkling of the life and legacy of Mrs. Janis Blocker. She has deeply impacted her students, her community, and her home State through her vested commitment to building up all those with whom she comes in contact.

Janis Blocker's legacy demonstrates a life truly well lived. I am proud to

recognize her today in the United States House of Representatives Chamber, and I thank her for her service.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the completion of the Carolina Rising project in Gaffney, South Carolina, along with those dedicated individuals who have worked tirelessly to bring this project to fruition and to preserve, promote, and shape the deep-rooted history of Cherokee County. We thank them for their dedication to this cause.

The Carolina Rising initiative is a historic undertaking for South Carolina. It came about through the efforts of Gaffney's tourism administrator, LeighAnn Moon. For nearly three decades, LeighAnn has worked tirelessly to strengthen the community identity and to expand rural tourism in Gaffney, South Carolina.

From conversations with visitors, LeighAnn quickly discovered many were drawn to Cherokee County because of its historic background, its Revolutionary War landmarks, and its extensive resources.

This reality helped her shape Carolina Rising, a strategic effort to research, document, and interpret the county's contributions to America's independence in a way that is accessible to the public. It is now an innovative museum in the heart of Gaffney, South Carolina.

This region was the site of numerous historic battles, including both the Battle of Kings Mountain and the Battle of Cowpens. Monumental American victories here weakened British control in the backcountry and strengthened the patriot position at a decisive moment in the war.

The Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail also passes through the area where the museum now sits, marking the route taken by the United States militia forces. These historic efforts proved critical to the outcome of the revolution in South Carolina.

The museum's construction came about through the restoration and reuse of the historic Carnegie Free Library in downtown Gaffney. Constructed in 1913, the Carnegie Free Library is one of only 14 libraries built in South Carolina. For generations, it was the center of literacy, research, and civic engagement.

This project successfully transformed the landmark into a modern museum experience dedicated to the Revolutionary War in the region. It incorporates interactive exhibits, curated artifacts, digital interpretation, and educational programming. The facility has space for lectures, student tours, and historic research.

Carolina Rising simultaneously pays tribute to Gaffney's past while serving as a resource for future South Carolinians.

Its launch is a tremendous success. It has been over a decade in the making. Yet, Carolina Rising represents more than 14 years of planning and investment. It reflects constant collaboration among local leaders, State officials, preservation advocates, historians, and private supporters who all share that commitment to honoring our Nation's past while strengthening our local economy.

By expanding heritage tourism, supporting small businesses, and increasing downtown visitations, Carolina Rising will contribute to sustained economic development in Gaffney and, overall, Cherokee County.

I am very proud to say that Carolina Rising demonstrates the planning, deep respect for history, and stalwart confidence in the future of all South Carolinians, but particularly those in Gaffney.

Mr. Speaker, I commend those who have brought this initiative forward and thank them for their continued service to the people of South Carolina. Their efforts have successfully seen this project come together for our children, grandchildren, and generations to come.