Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart and solemn remembrance that I rise today to pay tribute to an extraordinary public servant, trailblazing leader, wife, mother, grandmother, sister, mentor and friend of longstanding, Mrs. Brenda Davis Murrell. Sadly, Brenda transitioned from labor to reward on November 9, 2024. A celebration of her remarkable life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on November 15, 2024, at Victory Baptist Church, 640 Meriwether Road, Milledgeville, Georgia.

Brenda Davis Murrell was born August 11, 1951, in Cleveland, Ohio to the late Lexie Davis, Sr. and Ms. Bobbie Davis Arnold. Her family relocated to Milledgeville, Georgia when Brenda was 10 years old, where she began the early stages of her life's journey of achievement, service, and empowerment of others. She was a product of the Baldwin County School System where she excelled academically and graduated from Boddie High School in 1969.

Upon graduation, Brenda attended the historic Paine College in Augusta, Georgia where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology in 1973 and joined the sisterhood of her beloved Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc, where she served for more than 50 years holding numerous leadership positions and leveraging her influence and vision for the sorority to make a lasting impact in communities across Georgia and beyond.

In pursuit of further knowledge and mastery, Brenda completed her master's degree in education from the University of Georgia in 1985 and armed with a keen understanding of human behavior, she began employment as a counselor within the Georgia Department of Corrections, rising through the ranks, breaking barriers, and setting unprecedented standards. Her tenacity, intellect and leadership skills earned her appointment as one of the first 3 Black and female wardens in the State of Georgia and her service as Warden at multiple institutions sealed her reputation as one of the most highly competent, effective, compassionate, and admired prison administrators in the profession. She was instrumental in implementing a wide range of transformative policies and programs which remain active today, including life changing prison ministries. Correctional officers and offenders who served under her leadership all say of Brenda that she always treated them with dignity and respect.

Her career culminated as Director of Facilities Operations for the Georgia Department of Corrections, overseeing more than 60 facilities with 10,000 employees and 47,000 offenders, reaching the zenith of her profession and setting a powerful example for future generations of leaders.

Following her retirement, Brenda continued to influence the field as a private consultant sharing her expertise with facilities and organizations nationwide. However, as she stepped away from corrections, she redirected her energy to her ``first love''--DST. As a Delta, she embraced the Red Hat society, an organization dedicated to women's empowerment, embodying the message of living life boldly and with purpose.

Brenda was an avid traveler who cherished exploration, traversing continents and embarking on 19 adventures with Carnival and Caribbean Cruise lines.

A woman of unwavering faith, Brenda's life was grounded in her Christian beliefs and no matter where her career moved her, she sought out churches in her community, finding strength and kinship through worship. Her spiritual journey began at Flagg Chapel Baptist Church in Milledgeville where she served for many years as Church announcer, utilizing her distinctive voice and perfect diction there, and within her community as a respected public speaker.

Brenda loved her family. Her sons, Brandon and Bruce Butts were the loves of her life, and she was a doting grandmother, to say the least. Moreover, she loved her siblings and extended family; frequently organizing family reunions, and providing warmth, laughter, and support to all of them.

Brenda was a friend to many who were blessed by the bond of her friendship. She was frank and honest in her friendship--sharing not just what you might want to hear but what she felt you needed to hear. On a personal note, I will forever cherish the wise counsel and sage advice Brenda gave me over the last 32 years. It was at her kitchen table with Brenda and several friends, poring over maps and pages of data, and in fervent prayer, that I resolved to run for Congress in 1992. As she did for me, Brenda touched so many lives in so many ways and because she did, the world is a better place.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in the House of Representatives join my wife, Vivian, and me, along with the people of Georgia and beyond in celebrating the extraordinary life of Brenda Davis Murrell and in extending our deepest condolences to her family, friends, sorors, and all who mourn her loss. Moreover, I pray that we will all be consoled and comforted by an abiding faith and the Holy Spirit in the days, weeks, and months ahead.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor and remember a loving husband and father, doting grandfather and great-grandfather, lifelong public servant, the longest tenured sheriff in the United States of America, and my friend of long standing, the Honorable Henry Cullen Talton, Jr. Sadly, he transitioned from labor to reward on Saturday, October 19, 2024. The funeral service honoring and celebrating Sheriff Talton's life will be held on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, at Southside Baptist Church in Warner Robins, Georgia.

Sheriff Talton was born to the union of Henry Cullen Talton, Sr. and Lois Ammons Talton on October 16, 1932, in Bonaire, Georgia. Early on in his adult life Sheriff Talton began his career as a middle Georgia dairy farmer before making a successful run for the Houston County Commission. In 1972, he won his first term as Sheriff of Houston County, and he would go on to win 12 additional successive terms in his lifetime. For nearly 52 years, Sheriff Talton served as Houston's top law enforcement officer, and he became nationally known as America's longest-tenured sheriff.

Rarely seen wearing his sheriff's badge or his firearm, Sheriff Talton was truly a man of the people. His commitment to fostering public safety and building relationships with the people he served earned him the respect and admiration of both the people of Houston County and the Georgia law enforcement community. Sheriff Talton presided over the Houston County Sheriff's Department during a period of substantial population growth in the county. Throughout his tenure, Sheriff Talton made sure his department was responsive, effective, and on the cutting edge of law enforcement. At the time of his election as sheriff in 1972, Houston County was home to about 63,000 people; today, the county is home to nearly 170,000 people.

As Sheriff, Talton made a point to engage with and collaborate with leaders from across the state in order to improve public safety for all. He actively contributed to various organizations, including serving on the Board of Directors for the Georgia Sheriffs' Association and the Georgia Sheriffs' Youth Homes where he received special recognitions multiple times for his fundraising initiatives. Throughout his career, Sheriff Talton was honored with numerous awards, including the Golden Eagle Award (2010); the Meritorious Service Master Award (2022); the President's Award from the Georgia Sheriffs Association; the Warner Robins/Houston County Chamber of Commerce Good Government Service Award; the Liberty Bell Award; and was named Sheriff of the Year in 2019.

Sheriff Talton contributed so much to his community and accomplished so much in his life, but none of it would have been possible without the Grace of God, and the love and support of his family, to include his late wife of 68 years, Peggy; his devoted children, Carlene Talton, Patty Redmond (Ed), Cully Talton, and Neal Talton (Ginger); grandchildren, Kitt Orr (Brandon), Lindsey Farrar, Tal Talton (Amanda), Sydney Morstad; along with 10 great-grandchildren.

Sir Winston Churchill often said: ``You make your living by what you get; you make your life by what you give.'' Sheriff Talton gave so much to so many for so long. His over 50 years of servant leadership on behalf of the people of Houston County has left his community stronger, more prosperous, and more secure. Truly, the world is a better place because Sheriff Henry Cullen Talton, Jr. passed this way.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join my wife, Vivian; and me, along with the more than 765,000 people of Georgia's Second District. in celebrating the life of Sheriff Henry Cullen Talton, Jr. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, loved ones and all who mourn his loss. We pray that they all will be consoled and comforted by an abiding faith and the Holy Spirit in the days, weeks, and months ahead.

Mr. Speaker. I rise today to extend my personal congratulations and to honor and recognize a dedicated public servant and community leader, Sheriff Kevin Sproul, on the occasion of his retirement as Sheriff of Dougherty County. Georgia. The community will gather in Albany. Georgia on September 28. 2024. to celebrate his retirement after 42 years of service at the Dougherty County Sheriffs Office.

A resident of Dougherty County since he was 7 years of age, Sheriff Sproul graduated from Albany High School, received an associate's degree in Social Work from Darton College, and a bachelor's degree in Organizational Leadership from LaGrange College at Albany. He also earned the Master Level 5 Gang Expert Certificate in 2007 from the National Gang Crime Research Center in Chicago, Illinois.

Sheriff Sproul started his career at the Dougherty County Sheriff's Office on September 8, 1982. For over four decades, he has worked in virtually every one of its divisions, including jail operations, protecting our roadways. and mentoring the community's young people. Sheriff Sproul understands that fighting crime and ensuring public safety starts with educating our students on character and instilling within them the values they need to be good citizen leaders. Over the course of his career in law enforcement, he has taught over 16,300 students in partnership with the Dougherty County School System.

In 2008, Mr. Sproul launched his campaign for Sheriff with the spirit of service and justice held close to his heart. He is now finishing his fourth term as Dougherty County's top law enforcement official, a position he has utilized to increase the efficiency of his agency, improve the quality of life for inmates, and make Dougherty County a safer place to live and conduct business.

As Sheriff, Sproul made a point to engage with and collaborate with leaders from across the state in order to improve public safety for all. He is a member of Georgia Gang Investigators Association (G.G.I.A.) and has served on the G.R.E.A.T. (Gang Resistance Education and Training) National Training Team. He has also served on the Stop the Violence Board, Regional Police Academy Board in Tifton, GA, and the GBI Regional Drug Task Force Board, as well as the Albany Civil Rights Board and the SOWEGA Council on Aging Board.

Sheriff Sproul has contributed so much to his community and accomplished so much in his life, but none of it would have been possible without the Grace of God, and the love and support of his wife of 41 years, Vicki, their three children. and one granddaughter.

George Washington Carver once said ``How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving and tolerant of the weak and the strong. Because someday in your life you will have been all of these.'' Sheriff Kevin Sproul has embodied the spirit of that quote throughout his career and his community is stronger and more secure thanks to his unwavering leadership.

On a personal note, I am blessed to call Sheriff Sproul my friend, and it has been a pleasure working with him during my time in elective office. Kevin never told me just what I wanted to hear; he always told me what he felt I needed to hear. I will always cherish the fidelity of his friendship and the timbre of his character.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join my wife, Vivian, and me, along with the more than 765,000 people of Georgia's Second District, in extending our sincerest appreciation and best wishes to Sheriff Kevin Sproul upon the occasion of his retirement. We wish him and his family all the best as they begin the next chapter of their lives.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, Navy veteran, prolific author. and life-long servant leader--the 39th President of the United States and Georgia peanut farmer, Mr. Jimmy Carter. President Carter's 100th birthday falls on October 1, 2024, and a celebration of his storied life and service will take place that evening in his hometown of Plains, Georgia.

In 1945, President Carter and the love of his life, Rosalynn, began dating and they married on July 7, 1946, at a ceremony in Plains. Following the death of his father, James Earl Carter, Sr. in 1953, the Carters and their three sons returned to Plains from the U.S. Naval Academy as Jimmy was then tasked with running the family peanut farm. Soon after, he was elected to the Sumter County School Board, eventually becoming its chairman. In 1962, he was elected to the Georgia State Senate where he continued to support racial integration and voting rights for African Americans. Senator Carter began his successful campaign for Georgia Governor in 1970, serving as Governor from 1971 to 1975.

Prior to moving back to Plains from the Governor's residence, Governor Carter had already announced his intention to run for President of the United States in the 1976 election. In November of 1976, Jimmy Carter became President-elect of the United States and the first Georgian to win the highest office in the land. As President, Jimmy Carter showed great success in international affairs, delivering the Camp David Accords, Panama Canal treaties, SALT II treaty, and the establishment of diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China. He also delivered on his domestic agenda, signing legislation to establish the U.S. Department of Education, expanding the Head Start program, successfully making America less dependent on foreign energy, and protecting millions of acres of public lands for future generations.

Following President Carter's loss in the 1980 Presidential Election, the Carter family returned to home to Plains where they continued to make a positive impact on both their local community and the world. Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter continued their ministry of service after their time in the White House with the same vigor and urgency, becoming heavily involved in Habitat for Humanity. The Carters' work with Habitat drew national attention through the annual Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project, which helped the upstart non-profit organization grow and construct thousands of new homes for low and middle-income families. In 1982, Jimmy and Rosalynn founded the Carter Center, a nonprofit human rights organization, which has since become famous for its work to eradicate disease, strengthen democracies, and alleviate human suffering all around the world.

In 1999, Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter were jointly awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian honor by President Bill Clinton. And in 2002, President Carter was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his decades of untiring effort to find peaceful solutions to international conflicts, to advance democracy and human rights, and to promote economic and social development.

Together, Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter rose to great heights, supporting and cherishing one another along the way as they served the world around them. From the Plains Peanut Festival to the Governor's Mansion, to the White House, and to communities around the globe, they always remained grounded, and Plains remained home in their hearts.

Mr. Speaker. I ask my colleagues to join my wife, Vivian and me, along with the more than 765,000 people of the Second Congressional District, in celebrating the amazing accomplishments of Jimmy Carter and commemorating his 100th year on this earth.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize The Dearing Railroad Car on the occasion of its 100th Birthday. As one of the few remaining 100-year-old railroad cars still in operation in the United States, the Dearing Railroad Car holds a unique and significant place in Georgia's and in our nation's history. The Dearing's 100th anniversary takes place on October 18, 2024, and a celebration of its life will be held in Cordele, Georgia.

Initially called ``Thompson'' the Pullman shops began manufacturing The Dearing in 1924, finishing the car in 1925. The Dearing remains one of the last of its time to still be in operation in the United States.

Over the years, The Dearing has run trips on several different railroads as both a sleeper and office car. In 2006, the car was purchased by Columbus, Georgia residents Nelson and Borden McGahee who are still its current owners.

The Dearing spent eight years traversing the United States on Amtrak, allowing passengers to journey across the country and through time when they stepped through the car. In 2020, The Dearing joined the SAM Shortline and continues to contribute to local economies and communities. The SAM Shortline has a multi-million-dollar economic impact in Southwest Georgia, boosting the tourism needed to support our small towns in the area.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join my wife, Vivian and me, along with the more than 765,000 people of Georgia's 2nd Congressional District, in celebrating the 100th Birthday of The Dearing Railroad Car and honoring the history of American railroads, which were so important to Georgia's growth and rich history and culture.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a loving husband, dedicated father, seasoned legislative affairs executive, and dear friend of longstanding, Mr. Scott Orr for his nearly 42 years working at Georgia Power. Scott will be retiring after 42 years of working with the company and a reception will be held in his honor on September 18, 2024, at the Southern Company DC Office.

Scott Orr began working with Georgia Power in 1982 as an Industrial Marketing Engineer. His work touched the areas of marketing, engineering, district sales, region sales, district operations, and customer service. For the past 22 years, Scott has worked as Manager of Federal Legislative Affairs. Throughout his work at Georgia Power, Scott has worked with over 40 members of the Georgia Congressional Delegation and their staffs over multiple Congresses, advising them on a myriad of issues relative to clean, safe, reliable, and affordable energy.

Scott has made a tremendous impact in the lives of millions of Georgians. His work on the Energy Policy Act of 2005, led to the expansion of Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4--America's first new nuclear unit in 30 years. He has truly been a friend and fierce advocate for Georgia Power's 2.7 million customers. Moreover, during storms and natural disasters, Scott has been a valued source of real time information for congressional offices and our constituents. He also has been a valued resource in dealing with and navigating countless constituent service issues in mine and other Congressional offices.

It has been said that ``Service is the rent that we pay for the space that we occupy here on this earth.'' Scott has paid his rent, and he has paid it well. His service to numerous social and civic organizations includes serving as Vice Chair of the Georgia Youth Challenge Academy Foundation's Board of Directors, the Athens Chamber of Commerce and the Classic City Kiwanis Club. Moreover, Scott has served on the boards of Southern Polytechnic State University Foundation; New Hope Enterprises; United Way of Northeast Georgia; the Athens YWCO, Athens Regional Medical Center Foundation, and the Foundation for Excellence in Public Education.

Scott has accomplished so much throughout his life and career, but none of it would have been possible without the Grace of God and the love and support of his wife, Benita; their three daughters, Whitney, Jessica, and Ansley and their families, including his five grandchildren.

Sir Winston Churchill often said: ``You make your living by what you get; you make your life by what you give.'' Throughout his career, Mr. Scott Orr has made a concerted effort to serve as a mentor and give a helping hand to new employees at Georgia Power. His legacy of uplifting others will be felt by all those whose lives he touched in the state of Georgia, in Washington, DC, and across this great Nation.

On a personal note, I am blessed to call Scott my friend. It has been a pleasure working with Scott during my time in elective office. He has become a close and trusted friend. Scott never told me only what I wanted to hear; he always told me what he felt I needed to hear. I will always cherish the fidelity of his friendship and the timbre of his character.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join my wife, Vivian; and me, along with the more than 765,000 people of Georgia's Second Congressional District, in recognizing Mr. Scott Orr's over four decades of service to Georgia Power, the citizens of Georgia, and our great Nation. May God continue to bless him and his family as he moves to the next chapter of his remarkable life.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the 160th anniversary of Calvary Episcopal Church in Americus, Georgia. Established in 1864 during the Civil War, this historic church has been a cornerstone of faith and community in Southwest Georgia. The congregation celebrated this momentous occasion on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, in Americus.

The history of the Episcopal Church in Americus began in 1858, with the first service officiated by Bishop Stephen Elliott. Despite the bloody and bitter challenges of the Civil War, the parish was reestablished in 1864 as Calvary Episcopal Church, symbolizing hope and resilience during a time of great turmoil. Rising from the ashes of hate and division--not succumbing to fear, anger, and distrust--is not only part of the legacy of Calvary Episcopal Church, but a hallmark of faith and service to the Lord. Overcoming hardship makes the faithful stronger, equipping one with the full armor of God.

Reverend James Bolan Lawrence, who served as rector from 1905 to 1947, played a pivotal role in the church's development and in the spread of the Episcopal faith throughout the region. Reverend Lawrence founded several churches across Southwest Georgia and was recognized as a saint by the Episcopal Diocese of Georgia in 1999 for his extraordinary contributions. Reverend Lawrence spearheaded the construction of the present church and had a significant impact on the church members he served and the community at-large. He dedicated his life to those in need: the sick, the poor, the young, and the elderly. Reverend Lawrence's impact cannot be understated and his work in service of others left a lasting mark.

Over the years, Calvary Episcopal Church has undergone numerous restorations and expansions, including the construction of a parish hall and other facilities that have supported its mission. The current church building, completed in 1921, was designed by the renowned Gothic architect Ralph Adams Cram and stands as a testament to the strength of faith and service of the Calvary Episcopal Church congregation. Today, the church continues to be a beacon of faith and service in the community. Calvary Episcopal Church is and will remain a model of inclusion and benevolence.

Calvary Episcopal Church endures today because the mission of the church shall never die. Faith, service, duty, and humility continue to shape the congregation of Calvary Episcopal Church. Romans 12:1 tells us, ``I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.'' The Lord calls upon his people to live their service to him. In doing so, the faithful heal the sick, clothe and provide safe harbor for the poor, and ensure hope need not be a luxury for those who have much at the expense of those who have little.

Mr. Speaker, today I ask my colleagues to join my wife, Vivian, and me, along with the more than 765,000 people of Georgia's Second Congressional District in recognizing and honoring Calvary Episcopal Church on its 160th anniversary. May their faith and actions continue to inspire others and make positive change in the Southwest Georgia community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a loving wife, seasoned educator, legendary coach, and dear friend of longstanding, Coach Carolyn Wright An event to celebrate her remarkable coaching career was held on Saturday, August 10, 2024, at The Perfect Place in Columbus, Georgia. Coach Wright will be retiring after 45 years of dedicated service to education and athletics.

The genesis of the life of Coach Wright began in Tuskegee, Alabama. She is a product of the Tuskegee Institute High School, graduating from there in 1974. Coach Wright furthered her education in 1978 when she graduated from Alabama State University in 1978 earning a BS Degree in Physical Education/Special Education. Coach Wright went on to receive a master's degree in Specific Learning Disabilities in 1981 also from Alabama State.

Her career in education began at St. Jude Home for Children in Montgomery, Alabama. She also taught special education students at Hancock Central in Sparta, Georgia from 1978 to 79 and learning disability students at Stanhope Elmore High School Millbrook, Alabama from 1979 to 91. She spent her summers honing her education and coaching skills by working with the Upward Bound Program and the National Sports Youth Program at Alabama State University from 1979 through 1985. Her legendary coaching career began in 1986 at Mcintyre Junior High School where she coached basketball, softball, track, volleyball, and bowling. She left that position in 1991.

In 1991, she became the head coach at Central High School. She helped to guide the Lady Red Devils to four Final Four appearances, 12 appearances in the sweet sixteen, nine appearances in the Elite Eight, and 18 State tournament appearances overall. Her teams won 11 area championships while she amassed an overall record of 597-375 in 32 overall seasons at the helm. Her amazing career only produced four losing seasons as she was named bi-city coach of the year on several occasions. She was awarded the Sports Vision Legacy Award in 2018-19.

Her legacy extended beyond basketball, as she was instrumental in starting a volleyball program in the Phenix City Schools. She coached Volleyball at Central High School for sixteen years, winning more than 200 games. Her volleyball teams reached the Super Regional Tourney in 2014 for the first time in school history. She also served as the girls' head track coach and the boys' assistant track coach from 1992 through 2007 Coach Wright helped to guide 14 individual girls and relay teams to state titles Overall, she coached more than 30 boys and girls state champions. Because of her commitment to excellence, Coach Wright is largely responsible for over 200 athletes obtaining scholarships to colleges and universities.

Leaving behind a stellar career and legacy at Central, Coach Wright is now the Athletic Director and Head Girls Varsity Basketball Coach and Physical Education Instructor at Johnson Abernathy Graetz High School. During her tenure at Johnson Abernathy, Coach Wright was blessed to enter the 600-win club. Coach Tom Landry once said that ``A coach is someone who tells you what you don't want to hear, who has to see what you don't want to see so you can be who you always knew you could be.'' For over four decades, Coach Carolyn Wright has been helping young people from all walks of life to become who they always knew they could become.

Coach Wright has spent 45 years in the teaching profession and has distinguished herself as a leader and mentor to those coming behind her. She was the chair of the Health and Physical Education Department at Central and the Freshman Academy from 1991 to 2003. She served as the Assistant Athletics Director from 2009 to 2021. Coach Wright served on the AHSAA Strategic Planning Committee in 2016. And because of her commitment to excellence, she was chosen as the Phenix City Public Schools Secondary Teacher of the Year in 2014-15.

She has accomplished much in her life but none of it would have been possible without the love and grace of God and the support of her husband, Coach Bobby Wright who is a Hall of Fame basketball coach in his own right. This amazing couple is the only husband-wife duo to be inducted into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame. Between the two of them, they have amassed 1,227 wins and a winning percentage of .680, the highest winning percentage of any husband-wife duo in the history of the State of Alabama.

But even with all of this, Coach Wright has found time to be a faithful servant of God as a member of the Saint John African Methodist Episcopal Church where she serves as a member of the Steward Board. She has also been a dedicated member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc since 1976 and is currently an active member of the Gamma Tau Omega Chapter.

On a personal note, both Coach Wrights have been dear friends to my wife Vivian and me for many years. We are both thankful for their friendship, support and counsel over the years.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join my wife Vivian, and me in honoring Coach Carolyn Wright for her lifetime of service to God, her community, and humankind. May God continue to rain down blessings upon her, her family, her community and all the young people whose lives she will influence in the days, weeks and months ahead. We wish her the very best as she moves on to the next chapter of her remarkable life.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor a dedicated public servant, loving wife and mother, champion for America's Military Families, and a distinguished member of this body, Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers. Earlier this year, Congresswoman McMorris Rodgers announced that she would not seek re-election to return to the House of Representatives and, in turn, would be stepping down as the co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Military Family Caucus.

Congresswoman McMorris Rodgers cares deeply about our Nation's veterans and Military Families because of her background as a military spouse and parent. In 2006, she married her husband, Brian Rodgers, a U.S. Naval Commander, and her experiences as the spouse of a U.S. servicemember empowered her to become a strong champion for America's Military Families who often face unique challenges as they live and work in and around military installations in the United States and across the globe.

When our servicemembers enlist in the Armed Forces, they must relocate to military installations--often with their spouses and young children. On base, military spouses and children must quickly navigate a new landscape which can pose challenges: new housing, new schools, seeking employment, and sometimes even moving abroad.

After recognizing these same challenges in my district, serving as the Member of Congress representing U.S. Army servicemembers and their families at Fort Moore, Georgia--Congresswoman McMorris Rodgers and I joined together in 2009 to form the bipartisan Congressional Military Family Caucus. For the past 15 years, I have been honored to serve alongside the Congresswoman as her co-chair.

Congresswoman McMorris Rodgers record of public service is historic and worthy of admiration. Growing up, she worked at the family orchard and fruit stand in Kettle Falls, Washington. In 1994, she won a special election to serve in the Washington House of Representatives, faithfully serving her district for 11 years, including 1 year as House Minority Leader before successfully running for the United States Congress.

During her third term in Congress, McMorris Rodgers was elected by the House Republican Conference as the Vice Chair, and she would hold this role for four years before becoming only the second woman to serve as Chair of the Republican Conference from 2013 and 2019.

In January 2021, McMorris Rodgers became the first woman to serve as the top Republican on the powerful House Energy and Commerce Committee as Ranking Member, and in 2023 becoming Chair. Chair McMorris Rodgers has been a leader on countless issues affecting the American people including emerging technologies, strengthening rural communities, helping to strengthen American energy resiliency and independence, and of course fighting for Military Families and veterans.

Every year since we founded the Congressional Military Family Caucus, Co-chair McMorris Rodgers and I have hosted the Military Family Caucus Summit--alternating between Fairchild Air Force Base in Spokane, Washington, and Fort Moore in Georgia in order to give the members of America's Armed Forces, their spouses, and their children an opportunity to hear from Department of Defense leaders and subject matter experts, share their experiences and challenges, and bring forward policies that improve the quality of life for our Military Families around the world.

Over the past 15 years, the Caucus has brought to the forefront numerous issues that affect our servicemembers and Military Families. Together, we have tackled issues such as food insecurity, medical care, spousal employment, family relocation challenges, childcare, and so much more. But we cannot tackle these issues without community input. The Caucus has been very successful in bringing together our Military Families and veterans, veteran service organizations, Blue Star Families, Chambers of Commerce, community activists, and more so that we can have the robust discussions that these important issues deserve.

On a personal note, I will greatly miss Cathy's partnership and friendship on the Congressional Military Family Caucus, and she certainly has big shoes to fill as co-chair. During our time together in Congress, I have been inspired by her advocacy on behalf of individuals with disabilities, her dedication to our veterans and Military Families, and her commitment to statesmanship and bipartisanship in the United States Congress. And while the Congressional Military Family Caucus will continue on after her retirement, I look forward to joining her for our last Congressional Military Family Caucus Summit together in Spokane this August.

Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers has accomplished so much in her life, and this was made possible by the grace of God and the love and support of her husband, Brian, as well as their three children--Cole, Grace, and Brynn.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join my wife, Vivian, and me; along with the people of her District, her state, and the American people in recognizing and commending Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers for her dedicated service to people, especially her leadership and advocacy for our Nation's Military Families. While her leadership will be greatly missed in the halls of Congress, we wish her and her family the best as she embarks upon the next chapter of her life.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a dedicated husband, loving father, respected executive, committed man of faith, and friend of longstanding, John T. Powell. After 38 years of dedicated service to the peanut industry and agriculture industry as a whole, he will retire as the Executive Director of the American Peanut Shellers Association and Institute. An event to celebrate his remarkable career will be held on August 20, 2024, at the Doublegate Country Club in Albany, Georgia

John Powell has truly been a stalwart in the Peanut Industry for over five decades. He received his Bachelor of Arts Degree from Auburn University. He also graduated from the institutes of Organizational Management at the University of Georgia and the University of Notre Dame. His educational achievements prepared him to make a difference in the lives of peanut shellers, farmers, producers and professionals across the world.

During his time as the Executive Director of the American Peanut Shellers, John helped to found the Peanut Institute and the U.S. Peanut Federation. These two entities have helped to promote the interests of the peanut industry throughout the United States and the world. Moreover, John has worked on eight farm bills during his life, always advocating for those who he represented. Since 2001, John, in association with the National Peanut Board, has helped to steer more than 36 million dollars to food allergy research, outreach and education. Earlier this year, because of his significant contributions to the Peanut Industry, John was inducted into the American Peanut Council Hall of Fame.

It has been said that ``Service is the rent that we pay for the space that we occupy here on this earth.'' John has paid his rent, and he has paid it well. In addition to his responsibilities as Executive Director, his other professional affiliations include serving as the President of the Peanut Institute Foundation, The American Peanut Council, The American Peanut Export Council Committee, The American Society of Executives and the Georgia Society of Association Executives.

But John's service has extended beyond the peanut industry. He has served as a former Board Member and Executive Committee Member of the Albany-Dougherty Chamber of Commerce. He is also a former president of the Albany Museum of Art. The community affiliation of which John is probably the proudest is his affiliation as Vice Chair and board member of the Friends of Jimmy Carter National Historic Site.

John has accomplished much in his life but none of it would have been possible without the love and support of his devoted wife of 52 years, Mary; his children, Ben and Emily; and his four grandchildren, Evan, Zoey, Zack and Bella

On a personal note, John has been my friend of longstanding and close advisor on all things relative to the peanut industry during my time in Congress. He never told me what I wanted to hear, but he always told me what he felt I needed to hear. I will forever be grateful for his advice, counsel, and friendship.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me, my wife Vivian and the more than 765,000 people of Georgia's 2nd Congressional District in honoring the remarkable career of John Powell as an extraordinary advocate for America's peanut industry and service to his community. May God continue to bless him and his family as he moves to the next chapter of his remarkable life.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a dedicated husband, loving father, exceptional community leader, faithful servant of God, and friend of longstanding, Bishop Reginald Thomas Jackson. Bishop Jackson was honored for his 8 years of dedicated service in Georgia as the Presiding Prelate of the Sixth Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. This event was held at the Saint Phillip AME Church in Decatur, Georgia on July 12, 2024, at 6:00 p.m.

The genesis of the life of Bishop Reginald Jackson began with his birth on April 26, 1954, in Dover, Delaware. He is a product of Dover Public Schools and in 1976 graduated from Delaware State University with a Bachelor's Degree in History. In 1972, he was called to preach the Gospel and licensed under the pastorate of the Rev. Rudolph W. Coleman; was ordained as an Itinerant Deacon in 1975 under the leadership of Bishop Earnest Lawrence Hickman and appointed Supply Pastor at Graham AME Church. Always working to improve his preaching skills and knowledge of the Gospel, Bishop Jackson graduated from the Turner Seminary at the Interdenominational Theological Center in 1979, was ordained as an Itinerant Elder by Bishop Richard Allen Hildebrand in 1977 and appointed Supply Pastor at St. John AME Church in Atlanta, Georgia in 1978.

Bishop Jackson spent 33 years serving in the state of New Jersey, 2 years as Pastor of

St. John AME Church and 31 years at St. Matthew AME Church. During his long tenure at St. Matthew, he increased the congregation from 75 to over 2,800 members; he instituted more than 30 ministries to meet the spiritual, emotional, educational and physical needs of the church and community; and he increased the church annual budget from $50,000 to $2 million. George Washington Carver once said ``How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving and tolerant of the weak and the strong. Because someday in your life you will have been all of these.'' Bishop Jackson has used his life's work to advocate for the most vulnerable among us to include minorities, the young, the elderly, and the disenfranchised. He has been a voice for the voiceless and he has given hope to the hopeless.

Bishop Jackson served as Executive Director of the Black Ministers Council of New Jersey, representing over 600 New Jersey Churches; served on the Orange Public School System Board of Education as President for 12 years; and sits on the Board of Trustees of Essex County College, serving as President for 10 years. He was named Man of the Year by New Jersey Monthly Magazine, received the William Ashby Award from the United Way, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Award from the Newark North Ward Center, and Honorary Doctorates from Wilberforce University and Payne Theological Seminary. He is a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity and a Life Member of the NAACP.

In 2012, Reginald Thomas Jackson was elected and consecrated the 132nd Bishop of the AME Church at the 49th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference, held in Nashville, Tennessee and was appointed to the 20th Episcopal District (Malawi Zimbabwe, Tanzania and Uganda) as the Ecumenical and Urban Affairs Officer. He has served as Chairman of the Social Action Commission of the AME Church and is the current Chairman of the Commission on Colleges, Universities and Seminaries.

Eight years ago, Bishop Jackson accepted his charge in Georgia as Presiding Prelate of the Sixth Episcopal District of the AME Church. Continuing his longstanding advocacy for social justice, he has been a staunch champion for voter registration, education and turnout. He has ferociously lobbied the Georgia General Assembly for hate crime legislation and gun reform. Following an arrest for a planned attack on an AME Church in Gainesville, Georgia and the murder of Ahamd Arbery in February 2020, Bishop Jackson led the charge for a bill which was signed into law by Governor Brain Kemp in June 2020. In 2020, Bishop Jackson also collaborated with the leaders of every Georgia State African American religious denomination in conducting massive voter registration and education efforts throughout Georgia, resulting in the election of President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, U.S. Senators Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff, shifting the balance of power in the Senate. Because of this seismic shift, historic legislation to improve lives and communities was signed into law, including the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Inflation Reduction Act, Historic Funding for HBCU's, as well as the appointment of an African American woman to the U.S. Supreme Court. In 2022 and now in 2024, he is leading an historic partnership with the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church to energize and mobilize minority voters for the 2024 elections.

Now, after 8 years in Georgia, Bishop Jackson will be leaving for assignment to another Episcopal District where he will no doubt share his vision and wisdom in service to God's people. While his departure will be a great loss to Georgia, I am certain that his impactful leadership will be a catalytic gain to those in his new region of responsibility.

Bishop Jackson has accomplished much in his life, but none of it would have been possible without the grace of God and the love and support of his wife, Attorney Christy Jackson, who has served along side him as Supervisor of the Sixth Episcopal District, and their children Regina and Seth. Georgia, our Nation and the world, are better because of Bishop Jackson's ministry and service. To God Be the Glory.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to join my wife, Vivian, and me, along with the more than 765,000 people of Georgia's 2nd Congressional District, in extending our sincerest appreciation and best wishes to Bishop Reginald Thomas Jackson upon his departure from Georgia as the Presiding Prelate of the Sixth Episcopal District of the AME Church. May God continue to bless his ministry and service on behalf of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor The Greater Ward Chapel African American Episcopal Church as they celebrate their 127th church anniversary. An event to celebrate this singular occasion was held on Sunday, June 23, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. at the church in Columbus, Georgia.

Ward Chapel rose from humble beginnings in 1897 under a bush at the corner of Thirteenth Avenue and 24th Street in Columbus, Georgia. The first pastor of the church was Reverend R.W. Miller. After that, Reverend Swindom assumed the mantle of leadership and pastored for one year. Rev. W.J. Ferguson became the next pastor and moved the church to 26th Street, helping to rebuild it. In 1913, the church was reconstructed a second time.

In 1937, The Reverend R.D. Griffin was appointed as the next pastor. In 1939, the church was forced to move from the 26th Street location by the Government Housing Authority. The church was moved to Pou Street and was rebuilt in 1940 for the third time. The dedication of this building in honor of God was held on April 16, 1944, by the Presiding Elder of the Savannah District at the time, the Reverend R.L. Butler. This location included the first parsonage built in the history of the church.

Reverend C.K. Knight took the helm of the church in 1949. Blessed by a spirit of benevolence, he made it possible for any child that desired to matriculate at Morris Brown College to improve their quality of life. Because of the passing of the Reverend M.C. Davis, Reverend Knight became the Presiding Elder of the Columbus District in January 1955. Reverend Knight never forgot about this love for Ward Chapel and helped to select its next visionary leader, the Reverend S.F. Jackson.

Reverend Jackson was driven by his desire to serve the Lord and to make Ward Chapel the best church in the East Columbus District. Many contributions happened under his leadership to include the renovation of the parsonage and church; the organ was paid off and new pews were purchased. Furthermore, an additional choir was formed--the Cathedral Choir which was later renamed the S.F. Jackson Choir. Rev. Jackson was reassigned to Americus, Georgia in 1961.

The Reverend M.L. Hood was appointed as the next pastor and served at the church briefly. He was followed by the Reverend M.B. Mclendon. The greatest accomplishment of Rev. Mclendon, besides bringing souls to Christ, was the building of a new church edifice. A groundbreaking ceremony was held on November 16, 1967, to celebrate this great milestone in the life of the church.

Another parsonage of the church was purchased in 1984 at the cost of $60,000. The Reverend R.B. Bass was appointed pastor in 1984 and his family was its first occupants. Rev. Bass served the church faithfully from April 1984 to May 1997. Among his many accomplishments included the mortgage burnings of both the church and the parsonage, the installation of new carpet, and the cushioning of the pews.

Reverend Otis C. Duncan was the next caretaker of this remarkable church. He served faithfully until his retirement in February of 2014. Rev Duncan's accomplishments were indeed special. During his transformational ministry, Rev. Duncan transitioned the church to a new ministry by changing the name of the church to The Greater Ward Chapel AME Church in anticipation of the church accomplishing even greater things for the Kingdom of God.

On May 10, 2012, the church selected a new and dynamic leader to shepherd the Greater Ward Chapel flock in the form of the Reverend Conitras M. Houston Dickens, or as she affectionately became known as ``Pastor C.'' She was the youngest ever pastor to serve at the church and was its first female pastor. During her tenure, the Greater Ward Chapel Development Center was established to provide after school care was well as Summer Camp to community children, the Boy Scout Troop 11- 1, the Calvin Smyre Pastoral Scholarship, the Voices of Wonder Young Adult Choir, and many other ministries were founded under her incredible leadership.

In October of 2016, Bishop Reginald Jackson appointed the Reverend Terrance Evan's as the new pastor. Pastor Evans has truly built upon the great leaders of the Greater Ward Chapel's past while putting his own visionary niche on the church's bright future. Accomplishments that were made under his stellar leadership include a new front awning, the paying off of the church van and debts, and replacement of the church's roof.

Over the years, people from all walks of life have made a difference in the church and worked well together for the betterment of the Kingdom. The current members of Greater Ward Chapel continue to build on the legacy of labor and love that have set the standard for the church's success. The Greater Ward Chapel's parishioners have worshipped the Lord in spirit and in truth and have governed themselves as humble, spirit filled believers who are keen to do all they can as servants of God.

Mr. Speaker, today I ask my colleagues to join my wife Vivian and me, along with the more than 765,000 people of Georgia's Second Congressional District in extending our sincerest congratulations to The Greater Ward Chapel AME Church and its current pastor, Reverend Curtis Frazier, as they celebrate 127 glorious years of serving God and his people. May Reverend Frazier and church members continue to press forward to the high mark of service and humility set forth by Jesus Christ.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor and pleasure to extend my personal congratulations and best wishes to an exceptional community leader and outstanding citizen, Mr. Jim Wallace, on his retirement as a distinguished news anchor at WALB News 10 in Albany, Georgia. Jim's final day on-air will be June 26, 2024, and a party honoring his retirement and career will be held on June 18, 2024, in Albany, Georgia.

Born and raised in North Georgia, Jim Wallace attended Towers High School in Decatur, Georgia, and graduated from the University of Georgia in 1976 with a degree in Broadcast Journalism.

For over four decades, Jim has been a dependable and well-respected leader in Southwest Georgia. He has built quite an impressive career, which began in November 1976 when he joined WALB News 10, serving in both news and sports. He has served as a weekend Sports Anchor and Reporter, then as Sports Director. In September 2001, he began anchoring the evening newscasts, and in December 2016, Jim's hard work and talent landed him the Lead Anchor role in the evenings.

Throughout his career, Jim has accumulated numerous accolades. He has won the prestigious Georgia AP Sportscaster of the Year and Georgia AP Sports Reporter of the Year award on two separate occasions. Jim is also a Georgia AP Sports Photographer of Year award winner and holds numerous United Press International Sportscasting Awards. Along with his professional achievements, Jim also dutifully volunteers as a Sunday School teacher and youth volunteer at First United Methodist Church.

Jim has accomplished much throughout his life, but none of it would have been possible without the Grace of God and the love and support of his wife, Tracy, and their two children, Jake and Shelly.

Sir Winston Churchill often said ``You make your living by what you get, you make your life by what you give.'' Southwest Georgia is a better place because Jim Wallace gave his time and talents to keep our communities informed about the world around them. Jim's passion and dedication to the news, as well as his broadcasting expertise, are unparalleled, but his heart for helping others is what has made his life's work truly special.

On a personal note, it has been a pleasure working with Jim during my time in public office. Over the years, Jim and I have sat down

for countless interviews and discussions on numerous topics which have been essential to informing the people of Georgia about the pressing issues we face as a state and as Americans. While I have no doubt that WALB News 10 will continue in its mission to inform the public, we will all certainly miss Jim's adept reporting and insights.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to join my wife, Vivian; and me, along with the more than 765,000 people of Georgia's Second Congressional District, in extending our sincerest appreciation and best wishes to Mr. Jim Wallace upon the occasion of his retirement from an outstanding four-decade career in broadcast journalism at WALB News 10.

Mr. Chair, I thank the gentlewoman for yielding.

I rise today to voice strong opposition to the FY25 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies appropriations bill that is being presented by our colleagues from across the aisle.

This bill should reflect our Nation's values, priorities, and commitments. It should reflect who we are and should help move us toward who we aim to be. Though we have the difficult task of balancing financial figures, we cannot sacrifice our potential or jeopardize the well-being of our military families, veterans, and our national security.

While I believe in principle as professed supporters of our national security, my colleagues would want to prioritize caring for veterans, supporting our servicemembers and their families, and bolstering our national defense in theory. The bill they have presented today, however, fails to acknowledge the diverse individuals who make up our armed forces and it falls short of addressing their needs.

I echo the concerns of many Americans who recognize that embracing the diversity of our Nation and empowering those who seek to serve strengthens our military force. This inclusive approach not only fosters a deeper sense of patriotism and service among all Americans but encourages more individuals to consider military service when they see themselves represented within it. Leveraging our Nation's full potential enhances our military's ability to effectively respond to the global challenges we confront.

My additional concern lies in the proposed $718 million cut in military construction funding compared to last year, along with partisan riders that undermine our commitment to all of our servicemembers, our veterans, and their families. This bill would jeopardize the well-being and safety of our servicemembers and their loved ones.

Additionally, cutting vital funding for education, job opportunities, housing, and food assistance undermines the crucial support systems relied upon by veterans, servicemembers, and their families.

Such actions compromise the ability of our servicemembers to focus on their duties abroad when they are concerned about the well-being of their families back home.

This bill, in its current form, does not align with the principles of our democracy and denies equal opportunity for all Americans to patriotically serve their country.

We must reevaluate its provisions and make necessary adjustments to ensure it genuinely serves our national interests and does not compromise military readiness. Our Nation and those who serve it deserve nothing less.

Madam Chair, I urge my colleagues to oppose this bill. Let's make it better.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a loving husband, dedicated father, committed soldier, trailblazing attorney, benevolent community servant and dear friend of longstanding, Attorney William J. ``Bill'' Wright, Sr. Sadly, Bill transitioned from labor to reward on May 16, 2024. A celebration of his remarkable life will be held on Saturday, May 25, 2024, at Friendship Baptist Church in Columbus, Georgia.

The dawning of the life of William Wright, Sr. began with his birth on March 4, 1940, to the union of Robert L. Wright, Sr., and Pauline Talley Wright. From an early age, Bill was instilled with traits that formed the foundation of his character--courage, compassion, intestinal fortitude and a love of God and family.

A lifelong learner, Bill graduated from Spencer High School in 1958. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Physical Education from Tennessee State University in 1963. During this time, Bill immersed himself in the Civil Rights Movement by participating in demonstrations and other activities that would cement his commitment to making something of himself and using his life's work in service to others.

Following his graduation from Tennessee State, Bill answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army. He served two honorable years in the Army with two duty stations--Fort Benning (now Fort Moore) and Fort Ord in Monterrey, CA. Bill's service in the Army had a profound impact on his life by helping him to become more disciplined and determined to make a difference in the lives of others in pursuit of justice

Stirred by his involvement in the Civil Rights Movement, Bill's pursuit of justice took his journey to Atlanta's John Marshall Law School where he graduated in 1976 with a J.D.

Bill returned to Columbus, Georgia to begin his storied legal career. Bill was committed to justice and was truly concerned about the dispensation of justice for those who would least likely benefit from its promise. During his career, Bill tried over 1,000 jury trials and was applauded for his tremendous contributions to the legal community. Bill also served with distinction as a Recorder's Court Judge in Muscogee County. His enduring legacy is being continued through the Wright Legal Group that he founded with his oldest daughter, Attorney Katonga Wright, in 2011.

It has been said that ``Service is the rent that we pay for the space that we occupy here on this earth.'' Bill paid his rent, and he paid it well. He used his life's work to empower others by being a voice for the voiceless and giving hope to the hopeless. Bill played an integral role in the founding of the Fountain City Bar Association that has as its mission the creation of camaraderie and support among African American lawyers in the Chattahoochee Valley. He was a Mason, a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and the 100 Black Men of America. Bill was committed to preparing the next generation of leaders to take up the mantle of leadership in the Chattahoochee Valley and beyond.

Bill was committed to the study and preservation of history. Bill developed a passion for Civil War Reenactments with the 54th Massachusetts Union Army, the First Black Regiment to serve during the Civil War. Because of his commitment to history, he was appointed by the Secretary of the Interior to the Civil War Rites Advisory Commission in 1990.

Bill was a man of faith. It was the essence of who he was as a person. He gave his life

to Christ at an early age at Friendship Baptist Church. He was an original member of the Friendship Youth Organization (FYO). In later years, he joined Bethlehem Lutheran Church, where he was a faithful member until his death. He served as an Elder at the church just as he served others during his life with excellence and compassion.

On a personal note, Bill and his entire family have been dear friends to my wife Vivian and me for many years. We are so appreciative for his special friendship and for the wise counsel and advice that he imparted to us over the years. He never told us what we wanted to hear; he always told us what he felt we needed to hear.

Bill accomplished much in his life but none of it would have been possible without the grace of God, the love and support of his devoted wife and ``Sweetie'', Jessie Godwin Wright; his loving children, William, Katonga, Kendra, and Kameese; his grandchildren, his cherished brother and best friend, Dr. Robert L. Wright, Jr., and many other family, loved ones and friends.

Attorney William J. Wright touched countless lives. As an attorney, Judge, friend, history buff, husband, father, uncle, mentor, and activist he made an impact. We are better because of him.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join my wife Vivian and me, along with the 765,000 people of Georgia's Second Congressional District in celebrating the extraordinary life of Attorney William J. ``Bill'' Wright, Sr. and in extending our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who mourn his loss. May we all be consoled and comforted by an abiding faith and the Holy Spirit in the days, weeks, and months ahead.