Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a loving wife, dedicated mother, committed community servant, and effective higher education administrator, Dr. Marion Ross Fedrick. President Dr. Fedrick will be honored for her seven years of service at Albany State University during the annual Blue and Gold Gala that will take place on Saturday, April 6, 2024. Dr. Fedrick is leaving the university to become the new Executive Vice President and Chief of Staff for Georgia State University. She will also serve as Special Advisor to Chancellor Sonny Perdue for his Historically Black Colleges and Universities Initiative.

A native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Dr. Fedrick has sought to better herself through education to serve others. She is a three-time graduate of the University of Georgia, earning a bachelor's degree in adult education, with a concentration in organizational development, a master's degree in public administration, and a Ph.D. in higher education.

Because of her commitment to excellence, she has excelled professionally. She has given her time and talents to several organizations to include Clark-Atlanta University, Emory University Hospitals, State of Georgia Office of State Personnel Administration, AT&T, and the Former Bell South Corporation. Dr. Fedrick also served as the University System of Georgia's Vice Chancellor of Human Resources.

On August 14, 2018, the trajectory of Albany State University changed forever when Dr. Fedrick was appointed at the 10th President of the University after serving as Interim President and Executive Vice President. It has been said that: ``Education is the passport to the future, it belongs to those who prepare for it today.'' Dr. Fedrick used her time at Albany State to prepare thousands of young people to embrace their futures with confidence. She has done this by being a leader who has embraced focusing on the whole being of the student-- academically, socially and spiritually. Dr. Fedrick has expanded access and opportunities for students by increasing campus-wide resources. Dr. Fedrick has truly lived by the words of Mary McLeod Bethune when she said that ``We have powerful potential in our youth, and we must have the courage to change old ideas and practices so that we direct their power toward good ends.'' Dr. Fedrick has helped all students who have come through the doors of Albany State during her tenure to direct their power towards the betterment of humankind.

Dr. Fedrick has truly advanced the University though a variety of initiatives to include a redesign of the university's academic colleges, approval of the University System of Georgia's first nexus degrees and the design and implementation of the University's integrated student success model. As a result of her ingenuity and visionary leadership, the University has achieved a sixteen percent increase in retention and a six percent increase in enrollment.

Dr. Fedrick is widely respected by her colleagues because of her enduring commitment to student success, racial and social equity and the power of community. She has used her powerful voice to be a spokesperson for access, equity, and fairness. Dr. Fedrick has helped to strengthen the bond between Albany State and the greater Albany community. Dr. Fedrick has been associated with and contributed to a wide variety of initiatives in the University System of Georgia to include the mental health task force and The Georgia COVID-19 Health Equity Council. This initiative helped the Georgia Department of Community Health to improve its outreach to communities most affected by the virus. This ensured the fair distribution and administration of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Dr. Fedrick has accomplished much in her life but none of it would have been possible without the grace of God and the love and support of her husband, Horace and her daughter, Grace.

On a personal note, I have worked with many University Presidents over the years. Dr. Fedrick has been one of the most effective presidents that I will have worked with during my time in Congress.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me, my wife Vivian, and the 765,000 people of Georgia's Second Congressional District in expressing our deepest gratitude and best wishes to President Dr. Marion Ross Fedrick for her dedicated service to Albany State University. May God continue to bless her and her family as she enters a new chapter in her remarkable life.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a loving wife, dedicated mother, pioneering educator, committed community activist, ardent community servant, faithful woman of God and friend of longstanding, Ms. Lenore DeVaughn Golden Shackelford.

Sadly, Mrs. Shackelford passed from labor to reward on Thursday, March 14, 2024. A homegoing service to celebrate her remarkable life will be held on Saturday, March 30, 2024, at the Beulah Missionary Baptist Church in Quitman, Georgia.

The Genesis of the life of Mrs. Lenore Shackelford began on April 17, 1929, as she was born to the union of the late Corine Golden and A.Z. Graddick. She was a proud product of the Brooks County School System, graduating from Brooks County High School in 1945.

A love of family permeated the life of Mrs. Shackelford, and she united in Holy Matrimony to Herbert Duane Shackelford and to this blessed union a son was born, the late Herbert Duane Shackelford II.

A lifelong and avid learner, Mrs. Shackelford attended and graduated from Savannah State College (now university) with a Bachelor of Science Degree in 1950. She also received a Master of Education, Guidance and Counseling from Florida A&M University in 1959. Mrs. Shackelford also attended Tennessee A&I, Valdosta State, and the University of Georgia.

Her long and storied career in education began in 1950 as a Social Studies Teacher at Morven Rosenwald High School. She was also an elementary school teacher at Empress Elementary School from 1954 to 59. Subsequently, she became a guidance counselor in 1959 at Washington Street High School in Quitman. Mrs. Shackelford continued her counseling career at Brooks County Junior High in 1970 and completed her fulfilling career at Brooks County High, retiring in 1989. It has been said that ``Education is the passport to the future, it belongs to those who prepare for it today.'' Mrs. Shackelford did an extraordinary job in preparing countless young people for their futures. Because of her dedication and stellar commitment to our young people, she received many awards and commendations. She also helped many young people receive scholarships that helped advance their educational dreams.

Mrs. Shackelford dedicated her life to the betterment of her beloved Brooks County. Always the community activist, she was instrumental in making Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday a holiday for Brooks County Schools in 1988. Continuing that activism, she was pivotal in getting the longest street in Quitman, (the former Washington Street) named after Dr. King. Mrs. Shackelford truly believed in these words: ``Activism is standing up for what you believe in, even when it is not the popular opinion.'' Mrs. Shackelford was not concerned about what was popular, she was concerned about what was right and just.

Shirley Chisholm once said that ``Service is the rent that we pay for the space that we occupy here on this earth.'' Mrs. Shackelford paid her rent, and she paid it well. Mrs. Shackelford gave her time, treasure, and talent to many organizations over the course of her life, to include: Order of the Eastern Star, Love Joy Chapter No. 426, where she was Worthy Matron. She also held two Grand Lodge offices, Grand Adah and Grand Lecturer. She was a member of Scott Azalea Assembly No. 289, Order of the Golden Circle of Valdosta, Georgia, where she received the ``Golden Lady of the Orient'' award, which was the highest honor that any Loyal Lady can receive in the State. She was a Charter member and past Commandress of Ossipe Court No. 186. She was also a member of the esteemed

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Always concerned about her professional development, she was a member of the National Teachers Organization; Georgia Association of Educators; Brooks County Association of Educators; Brooks County Retired Educators Association (serving as president for many years); the Georgia Retired Educators Association; Georgia School Counselors Association and Georgia Association of School Counselors.

Mrs. Shackelford loved her family and her community, but most of all she loved her God. At an early age, she joined the Beulah Missionary Baptist Church in Quitman, Georgia where she was a member of the trustee board, church clerk, secretary, choir member and served as a chairperson of several committees and programs, working closely with many of Beulah's pastors over the years. The Scripture tells us that ``She was full of good works and acts of charity.'' Mrs. Shackelford used her love of God to magnify His kingdom through her good works.

Mrs. Shackelford accomplished much in her life but none of it would have been possible without the grace of God and the love and support of her late husband, Herbert Duane Shackelford I, her late son, Herbert Duane Shackelford II, and her grandchildren, Herbert Duane Shackelford III, and Brianna Shackelford, along with a host of other loved ones and special friends.

On a personal note, Mrs. Shackelford was my longtime friend and supporter. Many of her closest friends, and I, endearingly referred to her as ``Miz Shack''. Over the years she blessed me with wise counsel and sage advice. She never told me just what I wanted to hear; she always told me just what I needed to hear. I will be forever grateful for the fidelity of her friendship over more than three decades.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join my wife, Vivian, and me, along with the people of Georgia's 2nd Congressional District, the State of Georgia and beyond in celebrating the life and legacy of Mrs. Lenore DeVaughn Golden Shackelford. Moreover, we extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends and all who mourn her loss. May we 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 to honor a loving father, a doting grandfather, dedicated community servant and committed man of God, Deacon Kenneth Florence. Sadly, Deacon Florence passed from labor to reward on March 13, 2024. A homegoing service to celebrate his remarkable life will be held on March 23, 2024, at the Second Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Albany, Georgia.

The genesis of the life of Deacon Florence began on November 13, 1952, with his birth to the union of the late Bernard and Willard Florence in Clewiston, Florida. He was raised from birth by the late Georgian Fudge of Sanford, Florida.

Deacon Florence was educated in the Florida Public School System where he graduated in 1972 from Seminole High School. After graduating from high school, he began his lifelong love of service by enlisting in the United States Army and was honorably discharged in 1974.

He relocated to what would become his second home, Albany, Georgia. He attended the ASU West Campus, formerly known as Darton College, before being employed at Proctor and Gamble for 27 years.

At an early age he gave his life to Christ and joined Morning Glory Missionary Baptist Church. After his move to Albany, he joined Second Mount Zion Baptist Church under the leadership of Dr. Theodus Drake, Jr. Deacon Florence truly understood that you can only serve God by serving his people. Deacon Florence demonstrated his love for God by serving in various ministries at the church to include Sunday School Superintendent and as the head of the Security Deacons' Ministry, Executive Ministry, Transportation Ministry and several youth ministries.

Deacon Florence also understood that his service and love for God had to extend beyond the church walls. His love for community was evident by his involvement in many social and civic organizations to include Albany Community Builders, the NAACP, Black Voters Matter, Keep Albany- Dougherty Beautiful, SOWEGA Rising, the 26 Club, Masonic Lodge, Little League baseball coach and various other organizations. It has been said that ``Service is the rent we pay for the space we occupy here on this Earth.'' Deacon Florence paid his rent and he paid it well. He never met a stranger and treated people how they deserved to be treated. Dr. 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 strong. Because someday in your life you will have been all of these.'' Deacon Kenneth Florence could interact with people from all walks of life and make them feel special. He was special and his legacy will live on through all the people and organizations that he touched in his special way.

Deacon Florence accomplished so much in his life, but none of this would have been possible without the Grace of God and the love and support of his family, friends, and church members who will miss him dearly.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to join my wife Vivian, and me, along with countless others in saluting and honoring Deacon Kenneth Florence for service to God and Humankind. 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 honor a devoted wife, loving mother, doting grandmother, community servant, and Civil Rights icon, Mrs. Ada M. Jackson Lee. Family, friends, and community leaders will celebrate the Fourth Anniversary of her passing and 100th birthday on April 6, 2024, at Ada Lee Park in Warner Robins, Georgia.

The journey of the remarkable life of Ada Lee began on March 6, 1924, when she was born to the union of the late Mr. Lewis D. Jackson and the late Mrs. Annie B Jackson in Wellston, Georgia.

A lifelong and persistent learner, Mrs. Lee graduated from Booker T. Washington High School and the Culinary Arts Program at The Fort Valley State University. She went on to work as an Urban Renewal specialist where she later retired.

She was married to the late Sylvester Lee and to this union three children were born. Daron Lewis Lee, Virey Anne Ferguson and Dorothea Rita Scott. Mrs. Lee was a woman after God's own heart who served her community with distinction and pride. ``It has been said that service is the rent that we pay for the space that we occupy here on this earth.'' Mrs. Lee paid her rent, and she paid it well. She was nothing short of a trailblazer with several historic firsts for the Warner Robins community--first Director of the Warner Robins Day Care Center, she formed the first Girl Scout Troop for African-American girls and the first Director of the Head Start Program in Warner Robins.

When Mrs. Lee saw a need in the community, she made sure that it was addressed. When she saw a need for a safe space for children to play, she approached the mayor and made it happen. Now that same park is named in her honor. She was a strong advocate for her community and for women. She truly believed in the words of Shirley Chisolm, ``if they don't give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.'' Because of her lifetime service she was recognized with many awards to include The Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis for Outstanding Volunteer Services, The NAACP Trailblazer Award, Ms. Senior Warner Robins as well as one of the fifty Influential Women in Middle Georgia.

She gave her time, talent, and treasure to many organizations to include Board Member of the Family Support Alliance for the Mentally Ill, Warner Robins Housing Authority, Houston County Democratic Advisory, Warner Robins Day Care Center, NAACP, SCLC and served as a member of the Christian Women United Association and the Georgia Council on Human Relations. She was also an honorary member of the Order of Eastern Star, Cinderella Chapter No. 406.

But more important than all of these accolades and memberships, Mrs. Lee was a

woman of faith. A dedicated member of the Warner Robins Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, Mrs. Lee was a member of stewardess board, missionary board, Lay Council, We Care-Golden Age, Social Concerns Hospitality Circle and served as Founder of the Pastor's Aide Board. The scripture tells us in Proverbs 3:6 that ``In all thy ways acknowledge him and he shall direct thy paths.'' The Lord truly directed the paths of Mrs. Ada Johnson Lee. The Middle Georgia Community, The State of Georgia, our country, and the world are better because Mrs. Lee passed this way.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me and my wife Vivian, and the 765,000 people of Georgia's Second Congressional District, in honoring the life and legacy of Mrs. Ada Johnson Lee. May her life continue to be an inspiration to her family, friends, and all those that she touched during her remarkable life.

Mr. Speaker, I stand before you today to offer my heartfelt congratulations and well wishes to an exceptional mentor, devoted leader, Vietnam War Veteran, faithful servant of God, and cherished longtime friend, Reverend Dr. Emmett Scott Aniton, Jr., as he concludes his 45 years of service at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. A special celebration marking his 45th Anniversary and retirement from preaching the Gospel will take place on April 7, 2024 at the church in Columbus, Georgia.

Born on March 8, 1940, in Oneonta, Alabama to Mr. Emmett Scott Aniton, Sr. and Mrs Estella Aniton Woods, Rev. Aniton graduated from Southside High School in Etowah County, Alabama before earning his Bachelor of Theology from Selma University in 1964. Following his service in Vietnam, he furthered his education at Alabama A&M University, obtaining a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology.

Having answered the call to preach, Rev. Aniton began his ministry at First Baptist Church in Jacksonville, Alabama, where he served his congregation faithfully. In November 1978, he accepted the call to pastor at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church in Columbus, Georgia, where he has led with passion and dedication since April 1979. Under his guidance, the church has flourished spiritually, numerically, and in its physical facilities.

Rev. Aniton's impact extends beyond the church walls, with his involvement in various community organizations and leadership roles. He has been recognized with awards such as the NAACP Religious Affairs Award and the Rainbow PUSH Coalition Lifetime Achievement Award, among others. His commitment to service and leadership exemplifies the quote by George Washington Carver when he 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. Rev. Aniton has used his ministry to reach people from all walks of life. Spurred by the example of Jesus, he has used his life's work to help the ``Least of These.''

In reflecting on his achievements, Rev. Aniton acknowledges the unwavering support of his late wife, Mrs. Dorothy Rigby Aniton, his children, grandchildren, and extended family. Personally, I have been blessed to benefit from Rev. Aniton's wisdom and friendship for over four decades. He never told me what I wanted to hear; he always told me what he felt I needed to hear. Rev. Aniton has inspired and mentored many with his sterling example of what a man of God should look like. He is truly a man after God's own heart.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in The U.S. House of Representatives to join me, my wife Vivian, and the 765,000 people of Georgia's Second Congressional District in expressing our deepest gratitude and best wishes to Reverend Dr. Emmett Scott Aniton, Jr. as he embarks on a well-deserved retirement after 45 years of devoted service at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. May God continue to bless him and his loved ones as he enters this new chapter in his life.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor two distinguished public servants, community leaders, and dear friends of longstanding, Georgia State Senator David E. Lucas and Macon-Bibb Commissioner Elaine Huckabee Lucas. Their collective service of over more than six decades to the people of Macon-Bibb, the State of Georgia and humankind was recognized on Sunday, March 10, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. during a community celebration at the Saint Peter Missionary Baptist Church in Macon, Georgia.

State Senator David E. Lucas was born to the union of the late David Lucas and Beatrice Poole Lucas, both educators on April 23, 1950 in Byron, Georgia. He graduated from Lanier High School in Bibb County in 1968 and went on to earn a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science from Tuskegee University, attended Atlanta Law School in 1980, and has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate from the Mercer University Medical School. At Tuskegee, he was on the 1971 SIAC Championship football team and after graduation in 1973, he returned home to Macon. In 1974, he was elected to the Georgia House of Representatives, becoming the youngest member of that body. He has tirelessly represented Bibb County and Middle Georgia in both the Georgia House and State Senate for almost 50 years, becoming the most senior member.

Throughout his career Senator Lucas has fought for civil rights, voting rights and equal opportunity. He championed policies that uplift Georgia's seniors and improve healthcare access and outcomes in urban and rural communities. In the General Assembly, he has served on committees crucial to the economic development and wellbeing of our state, including Insurance, Energy, Utilities, Telecommunication, Appropriations and Transportation. I was blessed to serve with him for 16 years and can say without reservation, that there is no one who knows how to leverage the inner workings of state government for his constituents better than State Senator David Lucas.

In addition to his public service, Senator Lucas is a self-employed independent Insurance Agent and owner of TBL Inc., an entertainment promotions business. He has been a social studies teacher, football, basketball, and tennis coach; owner of the Macon Chiefs semi- professional football team and the Georgia Titans basketball team; and a charter member of the 100 Black Men of Macon-Middle Georgia. He has been married to the love of his life, Commissioner Elaine Huckabee Lucas for more than 47 years and reared four children--David, Jr., Aris, Leonard and Albert (deceased) with 13 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Commissioner Elaine Huckabee Lucas is a lifelong resident of Macon and the wife of Senator David Lucas. She is and has been his support and helpmate throughout their marriage, keeping him grounded during his numerous career and life pursuits. But, this ``Queen'' of East Macon is a monumental public servant in her own right. Born to the union of Ella Appling Huckabee and Leonard Huckabee, she graduated from Miller Senior High School, completed work in English at Macon Junior College and received her BS Degree, Magna Cum Laude from Savannah State College in Elementary Education. She earned a Master's Degree from Fort Valley State University and an Education Specialist Degree from Georgia College and State University. She is certified in early childhood education, middle grades, data collection and counseling. She taught elementary school for 18 years, was an elementary and high school counselor for 12 years, coordinated counseling and advisement for the Bibb County Teen Parent Center for 5 years, and after retirement, was counselor, graduation specialist and community service coordinator at the Hutching Career Center for 8 years.

First elected to the Macon City Council in 1983, Commissioner Lucas has continued her uninterrupted elective service, making history as the first female commissioner of the Macon-Bibb Consolidated Government. She has served on key committees including Community Resources and Development; Appropriations; and Employee Development and Compensation. She served as President, Vice President and Treasurer of the Georgia Association of Black Elected Officials; The Macon Bibb Board of Health; Martin Luther King Commission; Cemetery Preservation Board; and the Recreation Planning Committee. Her prolific record portrays a champion for voting rights, civil rights and equal access to services for all citizens. She is a founding member and first president of the Bibb County Voter Registration and Education League, member of NAACP, SCLC, Bibb County Democratic Executive Committee, and Golden Life Member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

In 2011, she opened EL High School Academy where over 1,800 school dropouts have reentered school and earned their high school diplomas. She is a 40-year blood donor, organ donor, and runs E. Lucas Consulting and Lenny's Handy Services in partnership with her son, Lenny.

Commissioner Elaine Lucas and Senator David Lucas are indeed a power couple and truly icons in the Middle Georgia area. Active members of Steward Chapel AME Church, they are indeed persons of faith. Moreover, they are my trusted friends of longstanding for over 50 years. It has been said that ``You make your living by what you get. You make your life by what you give!'' David and Elaine Lucas have truly made their lives by giving so much to so many for so long.

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 recognizing and honoring the careers, service and legacies of State Senator David E. Lucas and Commissioner Elaine Huckabee Lucas. To God be the glory for the things they have done in support of humanity.

Mr. Speaker, I support passage of this six- bill package, including the section on Agriculture-Rural Development-

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the appointment of a dedicated servant leader and a true visionary for the Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church of Macon, Georgia, Minister Belvin D. Ware. Minister Ware was elected by the church to serve as Head Pastor in December of 2023, and he was officially installed at the church on February 18, 2024, at 3:00 p.m.

A native of Macon, Georgia, Belvin D. Ware was born to the union of Denise T. Jones and Lawrence F. Ware, Jr. both of Macon, Georgia. Minister Ware completed his childhood education in Macon and is a graduate of Central High School's Class of 1996. He is currently in the process of completing a Bachelor of Science degree in Biblical Studies. Minister Ware is also a United States Marine, joining in 1998 and reaching the rank of Staff Sergeant (E6) where he served for over sixteen years before receiving an Honorable Discharge.

Minister Ware first accepted Christ at the young age of seven years old at Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church, and he accepted the call to ministry in December of 2012. He gave his initial sermon on September 29, 2013, at New Life Family Worship in Jacksonville, North Carolina where he also received his License of Ministry. In July of 2018, Minister Ware accepted a full-time position at Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church as the Servant Leader of Children, Youth, and Young Adults. After one year of successfully mentoring the church's youth and bringing them closer to the Lord, Lead Pastor Eddie Smith ordained Mr. Ware as a Minister of Gospel in October 2019 and named him Assistant to the Pastor.

During his tenure as Servant Leader of Children, Youth, and Young Adults, Minister Ware was responsible for evaluating, planning, and implementing a thorough course of action for the youth to grow in their faith. He facilitated Bible Study and Youth Church, oversaw the baptisms of eight young people and grew youth membership at Macedonia through outreach at local colleges and universities. Furthermore, Minister Ware has been instrumental in local community outreach--most notably his ministry at Bruce Elementary School where he visited at least twice a month to mentor at risk youths and facilitate two coat drives in which Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church donated over 250 winter coats to underprivileged youth. Following his efforts at the school, the Bibb County Board of Education selected Minister Ware to be a sitting member on the board to hire Bruce Elementary's next principal. Additionally, as Assistant to the Pastor, Minister Ware began the process and coordinated training with Middle Georgia Food Bank to establish Macedonia as a local agency to establish a food bank on church grounds.

Minister Ware has been recognized numerous times for his professional achievements. He is a recipient of the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Certificate of Commendation, and Letter of Appreciation. He was recognized by the Middle-Georgia Black Pages as a Young Entrepreneur and Professional in 2019 and was also nominated for Leadership Macon in 2022, a year-long program that introduces a class of rising community leaders to the successes and challenges in Macon- Bibb County's public, private, and nonprofit sectors.

Former Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm once said that ``Service is the rent that we pay for the space that we occupy here on this earth.'' Belvin Ware has paid his rent many times over and still continues to give a prodigious amount of love and service back to his community. He is currently the Executive Director for Heal the Hood Empowering Movement, a community initiative to cure violence and to bring economic power back to the Macon community through mentoring, job placement, and prison reform. He is also a Co-founder of the Concord Project which is a partnership between the local clergy and the Bibb County Sheriff's Office.

Minister Ware has accomplished many things in his life, but none of it would have been possible without the enduring love and support of his loving wife of over fifteen years, Aisha N. Ware, as well as his sons, Kingston Josiah and Kingsley Uriah.

Mr. Speaker, today I ask my colleagues to join my wife, Vivian, and me, along with more than 765,000 people of Georgia's Second Congressional District, in recognizing and commending Minister Belvin D. Ware, on his continued service as the newly appointed Pastor of Macon, Georgia's Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church.

Mr Speaker, I rise today in sadness and in joy to celebrate the life of a good man and a friend of longstanding, Mr. Michael Joseph Reed. Sadly, Michael transitioned from labor to reward on January 15, 2024, at the age of 69. A private service will be held on Friday, February 2, 2024, among family, friends, and loved ones. While his passing leaves in its wake many heavy hearts, upon prayerful reflection, the pain we share must melt into joy. For Michael

Reed leaves a remarkable legacy of service to humanity as a public servant, mentor, confidant, husband, and friend to many.

A native of Buffalo, New York, Michael earned his bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Oakwood College in Huntsville, Alabama. He also earned a master's degree in Urban and Regional Planning from Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee.

Michael's career in public service began as a Presidential Management Intern at the U.S. Department of Transportation, Office of Budget Policy. This experience led him to his first Capitol Hill position as an intern for former Congressman Louis Stokes of Ohio, who was a member of the House Appropriations Committee. After leaving Congressman Stokes, he joined the staff of Congressman William Gray, Chairman of the House Budget Committee and a member of the Appropriations Committee, as Legislative Director. After leaving Congressman Gray's office, he was Vice-President for Marketing at the United Negro College Fund. He was also the Director of Regional Card Marketing and Vice- President for Government Affairs for the American Express Company.

When I was selected to serve on the House Appropriations Committee in 2003, I needed a seasoned specialist and adviser. I was blessed to have Michael Reed join my team--starting as a Policy Adviser and Special Assistant, later becoming my Deputy Chief of Staff, and finally my Chief of Staff where he served until his Capitol Hill retirement in 2021.

For 18 years I matriculated in the ``Michael Reed School of Budgetary Policy''. He was a master of the appropriations process and its nuances. He was also constantly growing and expanding his expertise. Initially unfamiliar with agriculture issues, he quickly became steeped in the knowledge of the field. He was an invaluable asset to me and was respected by my colleagues on both sides of the aisle.

It was no surprise that upon leaving Capitol Hill, Michael was honored by the communities and industries whose lives his work touched, most notably the University of Georgia (UGA) and the Georgia Peanut Commission. UGA's College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences bestowed its Medallion of Honor on Michael in 2021. This award recognizes outstanding individuals for their dedication to the college's mission and is an expression of the University's gratitude for the time, advice, support and impact awardees have provided. The Georgia Peanut Commission presented Michael with its Distinguished Service Award in 2022, which is a testament to the decades of work Michael Reed did to help protect our peanut farmers and grow the peanut industry.

Upon his retirement from the public sector, Michael decided to re- enter the private sector and utilize his extraordinary skills and talents to make a meaningful contribution to mankind's efforts to confront the challenges of the environment and climate change. In 2021, he joined the American Forest Foundation as Vice President of Policy, exploring the pivotal role our nation's forests play and the potential they have in meeting this global challenge.

Sir Winston Churchill often said: ``You make your living by what you get, you make your life by what you give.'' Michael gave so much to so many for so long and truly lived a complete and full life. His public service, his devotion to his family, and his service to his community and nation, reflect the legacy he leaves and the joy we must celebrate. Truly the world is a better place because of the life Michael led.

Michael Reed accomplished so much in his life, but none of this would have been possible without the grace of God, the love and support of his loving wife, Attorney Diane Fields Reed, his late father-in-law, Judge Richard Fields, their beloved dog, Alexandra, and a host of family and friends that will miss him dearly.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to join my wife, Vivian, and me, along with countless others throughout Georgia and the Nation in saluting and honoring Mr. Michael Joseph Reed for service to his community, to his country, and to humankind; and in extending our deepest condolences to Michael Reed's family, friends, loved ones, and all those who mourn his loss. We 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 to remember a dedicated public servant and appropriations policy adviser par excellence, my former chief of staff and friend, Michael Joseph Reed. Michael transitioned on Monday, January 15.

Starting as a Presidential management intern at the U.S. Department of Transportation, he went on to serve two prolific congressional appropriators--Congressmen Lou Stokes of Ohio and Bill Gray of Pennsylvania.

When I got a seat on the House Appropriations Committee in 2003, I needed a seasoned specialist and was blessed to have Michael Reed join my team, first as special assistant, then deputy chief of staff, and finally chief of staff and senior policy adviser.

For 18 years I matriculated in the Michael Reed school of budgetary policy. He was a master. Learning the intricacies of ag policy, he became an asset to me and was highly respected on both sides of the aisle.

Upon leaving the Hill, he was honored by the communities and industries he helped, including the University of Georgia College of Agriculture and the Georgia Peanut Commission, among others. The research and disaster relief he made possible for American agriculture are among his lasting legacies.

Family and friends will celebrate his life in a private ceremony this week. We mourn his loss but thank God that his legacy of service will endure.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Chief Warrant Officer Four, Williams ``Will'' Anaab who served as a Department of Defense Fellow in my office throughout 2023. Last month, he concluded his work with my office, and I would like to thank him for his dedication and service to the more than 765,000 people of Georgia's Second Congressional District. In fact, the impact of his work extended far beyond the geographical confines of my district and Georgia.

He was my lead staffer in organizing the Congressional Military Family Caucus 2023 Summit. This annual, bipartisan event, which I co- host with my caucus co-chair, Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers of Washington and which alternates between Fairchild Air Force Base in Washington State and Fort Moore in Georgia. Will led the charge to organize last year's event which took place in March at the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center. Bringing together federal department and agency service providers as well as stakeholder groups like Blue Star Families, he created a forum through which we could learn from the insight and experiences of our servicemembers and their families as well as discuss ways in which Congress and the Federal Government may improve their quality of life.

He also became intimately familiar with the nuances and needs of Georgia's military family and veteran communities. Working with my constituent services staff in district, he diligently and compassionately strove to ensure that our federal departments and agencies were doing their utmost to provide the services and benefits servicemembers have earned in defense of our country.

Georgia is home to more than a dozen military bases and installations. They are a vibrant part of our great state's fabric and crucial to our national security. My district, alone, is home to three of these installations--Fort Moore outside of Columbus, Robins Air Force Base outside of Warner Robins, and Marine Corps Logistics Base in Albany. Will was a stalwart advocate for them and was true to the spirit of my office, working in a bicameral, bipartisan fashion to ensure Congress supported these military installations, the programs they house, and the troops as well as civilians who keep them operational and at the ready.

Will also helped facilitate a community forum that I hosted for municipal leaders and airport administers in Thomas County and the surrounding areas to discuss with the Department of Defense concerns about the effects of operations at Moody Air Force Base on local air travel. His work helped bring people to the table, ensure greater understanding and appreciation for the challenges each side faces, and created better lines of communication that I will continue to foster in the years ahead.

The Army Corps of Engineers plays a vital role in Middle and Southwest Georgia and the waterways under its care play a huge role in the well-being of the counties and communities--from Bainbridge to Albany and all of the communities along the Apalachicola, Chattahoochee, and Flint Rivers. Will quickly immersed himself into the issues of local concern that involved the Army Corps of Engineers, and his work was instrumental in helping me bridge the divide between residents, local community leaders, and the Army Corps of Engineers to find solutions to the challenges they face.

While my office has hosted many Department of Defense Fellows over the years, this is the first time that the program has included Warrant Officer participants, and I can say with absolute certainty that the program is better for this. My colleagues and I can only benefit from adding the unique perspective that our Warrant Officers have and bringing their experience to the work we do in Congress.

Will demonstrated an extraordinary ability to grasp complex issues quickly. His calm and poised demeanor allowed him to thrive in the fast-paced political environment of our nation's

capital. He became known for his charm and he cultivated a beloved reputation as a smooth operator.

His contributions to our national security are immeasurable, and I am immensely proud to have had him on my team. Undoubtedly, his future endeavors will continue to serve our great Nation with distinction.

It is with great pride that, today, I was able to join Will for his promotion ceremony to Chief Warrant Officer Four. I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to him as he ascends to this new rank and thank him for his continued service to our country.

I, and my whole staff, appreciate the positive and uplifting spirit Will Anaab brought to the office. I wish him all the best in his next endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to congratulate my Legislative Director and Counsel, Julian Johnson, and his wife Agnieszka Johnson (nee Dziadek), on the birth of their first child. It was my honor to officiate the couple's wedding on October 22, 2016, and now I am delighted that their family continues to expand.

Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart and solemn remembrance that I rise today to honor the life and legacy of a former First Lady of the United States, a former First Lady of the State of Georgia, a great wife, a loving mother, a doting grandmother and great-grandmother, a dedicated servant leader, and a friend of longstanding, Mrs. Rosalynn Smith Carter.

Sadly, Mrs. Carter transitioned from this life on November 19, 2023. Her funeral service was held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, November 29, 2023, at the Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, Georgia.

Rosalynn Smith Carter was born and raised in Plains, Georgia, to the union of Wilburn Edgar Smith and Frances Allethea ``Allie'' Murray Smith. She graduated as valedictorian from Plains High School and attended Georgia Southwestern College, now Georgia Southwestern State University, in Americus, Georgia, where she served as vice president of her class and graduated in 1946.

In 1945, she began dating James Earl ``Jimmy'' Carter, Jr., also from Plains and whose family farmed peanuts. Jimmy was attending the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, at the time. They were married in Plains on July 7, 1946, and they would go on to spend 77 cherished years together.

Following the death of her father-in-law, James Earl Carter, Sr., in 1953, Rosalynn, Jimmy, and their three sons returned to Plains, Georgia, from Norfolk, Virginia, where he had been stationed in the Navy as Jimmy was now tasked with running the family business.

Rosalynn took over its bookkeeping and proved herself a formidable business partner.

After her husband was elected to the Georgia State Senate in 1962, her role on the peanut farm grew, especially while he traveled to Atlanta for legislative sessions.

In 1970, Senator Jimmy Carter launched his campaign for Governor, and Rosalynn took a leading role on the campaign trail. In addition to handling most of her husband's political correspondence and meeting with constituents, Mrs. Carter began to travel

across the State of Georgia to campaign on his behalf.

Following Jimmy Carter's election as Governor, Mrs. Carter served as Georgia's First Lady from 1971 to 1975, where she would take on the role of Governor Carter's trusted adviser and confidant. She was appointed to the Governor's Commission to Improve Services for the Mentally and Emotionally Handicapped, where she formally began working on one of her foremost initiatives: improving and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health.

In 1972, Governor Carter gave me, a young, beginning lawyer, my first political appointment, a seat on the Governor's Advisory Council on Drug Abuse.

Governor Carter completed his term in January 1975. Georgia's Constitution then banned its Governors from serving successive terms.

Prior to moving back to Plains, Governor Carter had already announced his intention to run for President of the United States in the 1976 election.

Rosalynn Carter, once again, joined the campaign and quickly began traveling the Nation on her husband's behalf to tell American voters why the soft-spoken Georgia peanut farmer should become President of the United States.

In November 1976, Jimmy Carter was elected President of the United States, and Rosalynn accompanied him to the White House, where she would make her mark in defining what it meant to be America's First Lady.

While serving as First Lady of the United States from 1977 to 1981, Mrs. Carter made it clear that she had no intention of solely carrying out the duties traditionally left to wives of Presidents. As an equal partner to her husband, she attended many Cabinet meetings and weekly business meetings with President Carter, where she would be informed and could give meaningful advice and counsel on the policy issues of the day.

The egalitarian relationship between President and Mrs. Carter drew widespread interest but also criticism from those who believed the wife of a U.S. President should focus solely on homemaking and hosting White House parties and events for foreign dignitaries.

The Carters brushed their critics aside, and in 1977, President Carter appointed Rosalynn the honorary chair of the President's Commission on Mental Health.

In 1979, the commission submitted a mental health systems bill to Congress, and Mrs. Carter testified in support of the bill before a U.S. Senate subcommittee, becoming the first Presidential wife since Eleanor Roosevelt to do so.

Subsequently, the Mental Health Systems Act was passed by Congress and signed into law by President Carter on October 7, 1980.

Following President Carter's loss in the 1980 Presidential election, the Carter family returned to Plains, Georgia, where they continued to make a positive impact on both their local community and the world.

Mr. and Mrs. Carter continued their ministry of service after that time in the White House with the same vigor and urgency, becoming heavily involved in Habitat for Humanity, whose international headquarters was then located in Americus, Georgia.

The Carters' work with Habitat for Humanity drew national attention through the annual Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Work Project, which helped the upstart nonprofit organization grow and construct thousands and thousands of new homes for low- and middle-income families.

In 1982, Rosalynn and Jimmy founded The Carter Center, a nonprofit human rights organization that has since become famous for its work to eradicate disease, strengthen democracies, and alleviate human suffering all around the world.

Mrs. Carter served as the vice chair of The Carter Center from 1986 to 2005 and served as a member of the board of trustees from 2005 until her death.

Throughout her life, she sought to improve the quality of life for those who suffered from mental illness and disability, including those who care for them.

Mrs. Carter established the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers in 1987 at her alma mater, Georgia Southwestern State University in Americus. Today, the Rosalynn Carter Institute supports caregivers across the United States through research, creating dementia and Alzheimer's disease programs and other tools that help Americans be effective caregivers to their loved ones.

Mother Teresa once said: ``A life not lived for others is not a life.'' I can say without a shadow of a doubt that Rosalynn Carter lived her life for others and went beyond the call of duty to do so.

It has been an honor to know Rosalynn and Jimmy Carter for more than half a century. I will always cherish their friendship as well as their sage counsel and advice, which has been invaluable to me as I have served in Congress. They have been my constituents for 31 years, and they did not hold back in expressing their opinion on the issues of the day.

Together they rose to great heights, supporting and cherishing one another along the way as they served the world around them. From the Plains peanut fields 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.

Rosalynn Carter accomplished so much for so many for so long. She did so with the grace of God as well as the love and support of her devoted husband, their five children, their 22 grandchildren and great- grandchildren.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues of 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 Congressional District and people all around the world in honoring the great service to humanity of Mrs. Rosalynn Carter and extending our deepest sympathies to her family.

At this time, I yield to the gentleman from Georgia's Eighth District (Mr. Austin Scott), my good friend.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Georgia, my friend and my colleague, for his comments, and I thank him for joining with me in organizing today's bipartisan Special Order hour in honor of First Lady Rosalynn Carter.

Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from the 13th Congressional District of Georgia (Mr. David Scott), the ranking member of the Agriculture Committee.

Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Georgia's First Congressional District (Mr. Carter).

Mr. Speaker, I thank Representative Carter for his remarks.

I yield to the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Johnson) of the Fourth Congressional District.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for his remarks.

I yield to the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Loudermilk) of Georgia's 11th District.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for his remarks.

I yield to the gentlewoman from the Fifth Congressional District, (Ms. Williams).

Mr. Speaker, I thank Representative Williams for her remarks.

I yield to the gentlewoman from Ohio (Ms. Kaptur) of Ohio's Ninth District, my fellow appropriator and a dedicated public servant.

Mr. Speaker, may I inquire as to how much time is remaining?

Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. Cohen) of the Ninth Congressional District.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for those words.

Mrs. Rosalynn Carter did so much in her lifetime, and she held many leadership positions throughout it. She received numerous awards and recognitions for her work. She served as the honorary chairperson of the Georgia Special Olympics from 1971 to 1975. She was a member of the Menninger Foundation board of trustees from 1986 to 2003. She was the chair of the International Women Leaders for Mental Health, an honorary fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, and a board member emeritus of the National Mental Health Association. She was awarded the Dorothea Dix Award by the Mental Illness Foundation, the Jefferson Award for Greatest Public Service Benefiting the Disadvantaged, and the Rhoda and Bernard Sarnat International Prize in Mental Health. She was inducted into the National Women's Hall of Fame in 2001. Most notably, in 1999, Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter were jointly awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the Nation's highest civilian honor, by President Bill Clinton.

Rosalynn Carter was a great person not because of the titles that she held, not because of the organizations that she served, but Rosalynn was great measured by the true standard of greatness set by Jesus that he or she who is great among you shall be your servant, and he who is greatest shall be servant to all. Certainly, without a doubt, Rosalynn Carter measures up.

Mr. Speaker, in concluding this Special Order hour, I thank my colleague, Austin Scott, for working with me in order to organize today's event, and I thank the Members who joined us in commemorating the life and legacy of former First Lady Rosalynn Carter.

Though Rosalynn Carter has departed from this Earth, countless Americans--in fact, countless people worldwide--will continue to have a better life because of her compassion, dedication, and public service.

We will miss her dearly, but she will remain an inspiration for generations to come.

To the Carter family, I extend my heartfelt condolences and prayers.

Mr. Speaker, I will close by reflecting on the fact that I attended the wreath-laying ceremony at Georgia Southwestern State University last week and the memorial services for Rosalynn Carter held at the Glenn Memorial United Methodist Church at Emory University. During the event, several poignant eulogies were offered, but I would like to close this Special

Order by reading one that was special from her daughter, Amy Lynn Carter. She said: ``My mom spent most of her life in love with my dad. Their partnership and love story was a defining feature of her life. Because he isn't able to speak to you today, I am going to share some of his words about loving and missing her.

``This is from a letter he wrote 75 years ago while serving in the Navy: `My darling, every time I have ever been away from you, I have been thrilled when I returned to discover just how wonderful you are. While I am away, I try to convince myself that you really are not-- could not be--as sweet and beautiful as I remember. But when I see you, I fall in love with you all over again. Does that seem strange to you? Good-bye, Darling, until tomorrow.' ''

Sir Thomas Gray wrote in his ``Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard'':

Full many a gem of purest ray serene

The dark unfathom'd caves of oceans bear:

Full many a flower is born to blush unseen,

And waste its sweetness on the desert air.

We are all so thankful that Rosalynn Smith Carter did not waste her sweetness on the desert air. From Plains, Georgia, to the United States, for the State of Georgia, and throughout the world and for all of humankind, she truly made a difference.

We have all been truly blessed by Rosalynn Smith Carter.

As I close, I leave these words: To God be the glory for the life and the legacy of Rosalynn Smith Carter.

Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, on November 28, 2023, I attended a memorial service in honor of former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, so I was unable to vote on the House Floor. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 676, H. Res. 793--Calling on Hamas to immediately release hostages taken during the October 2023 attack on Israel, and YEA on Roll Call No. 677, H. Res. 793--Reaffirming the State of Israel's right to exist.

Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today to recognize a loving husband, iconic coach, dedicated community servant and dear friend of longstanding, Coach Hampton ``Hamp'' Smith. Sadly, Coach Smith passed away on Monday, October 2, 2023. A homegoing service to celebrate his remarkable life was held on Saturday, October 7, 2023, at the Mount Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church in Albany, Georgia.

The genesis of the life of Coach Hampton Smith began on October 1, 1934, in Greenwood, Mississippi where he was born to the union of the late Richard Smith and Fannie Hampton Smith. A product of the Leflore County, Mississippi school system, he graduated from Threadgill High School and went on to earn a Bachelor's degree from Mississippi Valley Vocational College (Now Mississippi Valley State University) in 1957. From 1957 to 1959, Coach served honorably in the United States Army.

Coach Smith began his legendary coaching career in 1959 as an assistant coach at Mississippi Valley Vocational College. He then coached at McComb High School and J.E. Johnson High School before serving as assistant football coach at Tennessee Agricultural and Industrial College during 1969 and 1970 while earning his Master's degree. Coach Smith then began the first of two legendary stints at Albany State College in 1971 through 1976, went back to Mississippi Valley for 1977 to 1978, only to return to Albany State as an assistant coach from 1980 to 1981. He then became head coach for the Albany State Golden Rams from 1982 to 1999. Multi-talented and multi-faceted, Coach Smith also

served as Albany State baseball coach from 1981 to 1983, compiling a record of 46-37-1.

Overall, during his career in coaching, he compiled an impressive record of 157-90-4; he made 5 NCAA D-II Playoff appearances and led Albany State to 9 SIAC Championships. He was inducted in the Albany State University Athletic Hall of Fame in 2004 and the SIAC Hall of Fame in 2014.

Coach Smith's impact was felt well beyond the athletic field. He was more than just a coach. He helped shape the character of generations of young men and women at Albany State and helped shape the character of his community through his active civic engagement in local, state and national politics. He strongly encouraged people to exercise their duty to vote in every election.

Coach Smith accomplished much in his life but none of it would have been possible without the grace of God and love and support of his late wife, Charlene Johnson Smith. This union lasted for 60 years until Charlene's passing in April of 2022.

On a personal note, Coach Smith was my friend and supporter for 30 years. For his loyalty, support and wise counsel, I will be forever grateful.

Coach Hamp Smith was a Hall of Fame Coach and a Hall of Fame human being. To God be the Glory for his extraordinary life and legacy.

Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, 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 paying tribute to Coach Hampton Smith and in extending our deepest sympathies to his family, friends, and all who mourn his loss. Moreover, we pray that we will all be consoled and comforted by an abiding faith and the Holy Spirit in the days, weeks, and months ahead.