Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding mentor, dedicated servant leader, faithful servant of God and dear friend of longstanding, the Reverend Dr. Gregory A. Sutton. Dr. Sutton will be honored for his 53 years of faithful service at Jackson Memorial Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia, on Sunday, July 16, 2023, at 10:30 am.

Dr. Sutton was born in Atlanta, Georgia. He was raised among great educators, philosophers, and theologians. Dr. Sutton was always concerned about the welfare of others and used his voice to speak out on pressing issues of the day. He began to preach the Gospel at the young age of 16. This would lay the blueprint for his ministry and his destiny--the boy, the preacher, the man, and the visionary.

Dr. Sutton began preaching the Gospel while he was still in high school and accepted the calling to preach a growing church called Jackson Memorial at the age of 18, where he has pastored for 53 years. Through his leadership, the church has continued to expand its membership and physical footprint. Dr. Sutton has seen the expansion of the church's membership to over 6,000 members and he has overseen the construction of 2 new edifices for the church. Dr. Sutton's ministry is indeed a global ministry and reaches people where they are across the world.

The scripture tells us in Proverbs, ``that the people perish where there is no vision.'' Dr. Sutton is indeed a visionary and has used his ministry to reach people beyond the church walls. He has dedicated himself to the awareness, protection, and spiritual development of youth. Dr. Sutton was the originator of the phrase, ``Stop the Violence, Save the Youth.'' Cementing his commitment to young people and their spiritual futures, Pastor Sutton was the first pastor in the Atlanta area to open his church for prayer for students before school. He also reaches out and incorporates the needs of his elderly parishioners in his ministry. Dr. Sutton has a complete ministry that attempts to reach many different groups for Christ to include those that are in prison, the homebound, the homeless, the low income and the disenfranchised. He uses his Weekly Television Broadcast, ``Now is the Time,'' to reach those who would not otherwise be reachable.

Dr. George Washington Carver once said that ``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.'' Dr. Sutton is acutely aware that for the Kingdom of God to be manifested in this world, it is imperative that people from all walks of life be brought into the fold and be made to feel that they matter and that Jesus Loves them. Dr. Sutton's ministry is truly a Matthew 25 type of ministry.

Even amid his various ministerial duties, Dr. Sutton finds time to serve his community at large. It has been said that ``Service is the rent that we pay for the space that we occupy here on this earth.'' Dr. Sutton has paid his rent and he has paid it well. He serves on the board of directors of many social and civic organizations to include the Board of Ministers of Morehouse College.

Reverend Dr. Gregory Sutton has achieved much in life, but none of it would have been possible without the grace of God and the love and support of this wife, First Lady Gail Sutton; his children, Theresa, Tony, Keisha, and

LaQuay; his 3 grandchildren and other family members.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join my wife, Vivian, and I; along with the more than 765,000 people of Georgia's Second Congressional District in honoring and commending the Reverend Dr. Gregory A. Sutton for 53 years of dedicated service to his God, Jackson Memorial Baptist Church and humankind. Moreover, we pray God's continued blessings upon him, his ministry, and his family in the weeks, months, and years ahead.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a devoted wife, dedicated mother, and outstanding public servant, Mrs. Julia Andrews. An event celebrating her 95th birthday was held on Saturday, June 17, 2023, at 7:30 p.m. at the Renaissance Arlington Capital View Hotel in Arlington, Virginia.

Mrs. Andrews is a native of Dougherty County, Georgia and she has given her life's work in service to her country. She dedicated 34 years working to support America's national security as a civilian employee at the Albany Marine Corps Logistics Base. While she was providing outstanding service at the base, she did not do so alone; when Mrs. Andrews began her tenure in 1954, she joined her husband, Goliath Andrews, in service there who began his own 35-year career at the Albany Marine Corps Logistics Base in 1952. Truly, Mr. and Mrs. Andrews exemplified patriotism and a sense of service to which all Americans aspire.

It has been said that ``Service is the rent that we pay for the space that we occupy here on this earth.'' Mrs. Answers has paid her rent and she has paid it well. Her commitment to service is evident both in her career and in her retirement when she continued to seek out ways to serve her community and her country. A lifetime voting Democrat, Mrs. Andrews has been an endearing and familiar face to the residents of Dougherty County during election season. Year after year, Mrs. Andrews happily served as an election volunteer, working to help the citizens of Dougherty County successfully execute their civic duty. While exercising that civic duty, Mrs. Andrews' fellow citizens enjoyed and benefited from her warmth, kindness, and zeal. Undoubtedly, those qualities of hers have touched the lives of many whom she has volunteered to assist and has strengthened our democracy in a multitude of quiet but powerful and important ways.

Mrs. Andrews is a woman after God's own heart. She is a member of the Greater Third Kiokee Baptist Church in Albany, Georgia. She has been and continues to be a stalwart of that Church, having become a member 82 years ago in 1941. The model of Christian virtue that she demonstrates by the way she lives her life has surely touched the lives of so many people and has been an inspiration to generations of fellow members of the Greater Third Kiokee Baptist Church. She truly embodies the words of Acts 9:36: ``She was abounding in good deeds and acts of charity.''

Mrs. Andrews has accomplished many things in her life, but none of these would have been possible without her faith, the love and support of her husband, Goliath Andrews, and their 4 children, Vincent Andrews, Cynthia Buckley, Janice Thomas, and the late Larry Andrews.

Mrs. Andrews is the proud matriarch of a loving and growing family that now spans

across several generations. Many members of that family lovingly came to Arlington, Virginia on June 17, 2023, to celebrate her. I have no doubt that they would not have missed the chance to celebrate her for the world.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join my wife, Vivian, and I along with the more than 765,000 people of the Second Congressional District in extending our sincerest appreciation and best wishes to Mrs. Julia Andrews on her 95th Birthday and for her phenomenal service to God and Humankind. May God continue to bless her and her family.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life of a dedicated husband, loving father, humble public servant, and friend of longstanding, the Honorable Charles Hobby Stripling, Sr. Sadly, Hobby transitioned this life on July 3, 2023. A homegoing service celebrating the life of this remarkable man was held at 10:00 a.m. on July 7, 2023, at the Vienna United Methodist Church in Vienna, Georgia.

Charles Hobby Stripling was born on August 30, 1932, in Turner County, Georgia to the union of Maggie Thelma Hobby Stripling and Jodie Lee Stripling. Hobby graduated from Cordele High School in 1948 at the age of 16 and married his sweetheart, Joanne Duncan. They were married for 58 years until her passing in 2006 and were the parents of 2 sons, Charles Hobby Stripling, Jr. and Robby Stripling. Hobby was blessed to find love for a second time and in 2011 he married Ann Gambrell. They shared 12 wonderful years together and created a blended family to include Tonya Gambrell Thompson, Torri Gambrell Zeigler and Greg Gambrell. Together the Stripling and Gambrell children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and other kin merged into a loving family unit which Hobby cherished with great pride.

During his life, Hobby held various jobs until he returned to Vienna, Georgia in 1962 to open the Vienna Red & White Super Market with James and Elsi Pass. He later opened Zippy Food Store, the first convenience store in Vienna, Georgia, which he operated for many years. This gave him the opportunity to interact with his neighbors, empathize with their challenges and spark a career of public service to ensure positive change for his neighbors, friends and family.

It has been said that ``Service is the rent we pay for the space we occupy on this earth.'' Hobby paid his rent and paid it well. He served as Mayor of Vienna, Georgia for 24 years; President of the Georgia Municipal Association; and campaign manager for former Atlanta Georgia Mayor, Congressman and UN Ambassador, Andrew Young in his run for Georgia Governor. He was pivotal in my successful 1992 congressional campaign and in 1993, when the time came for me to hire a District Director, Hobby was a perfect fit. His leadership, compassion, patience, fidelity, advice, and friendship were the manifestations of love in action. He served the people of the 2nd Congressional District and me well for 10 years, then went on to serve as the District Director for Congressman Jim Marshall for 7 years and in 2008 was appointed by President Barack Obama to be Georgia State Director of the Farm Service Agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Hobby Stripling accomplished much in his life, but none of it would have been possible without the grace of God, the love and support of his beloved wives, Joanne and Ann, his blended extended family and the many souls that inspired and motivated him to serve. He touched countless lives in a positive way and because he did, the world is a better place.

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 the 2nd Congressional District in honoring the life and service of the Honorable Charles Hobby Stripling, Sr. and in extending our deepest condolences to his family, friends and all those 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.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor a dedicated husband, loving father, extraordinary funeral practitioner, humble community servant and friend of longstanding, Mr. William Maxwell ``Billy'' Carroll. Sadly, Billy transitioned this life from labor to reward on June 18, 2023. A home going service celebrating his remarkable life was held on Sunday, June 25, 2023, at the Saint Mary Missionary Baptist Church in Baconton, Georgia.

William Maxwell Carroll was born in Camilla, Georgia on October 6, 1936, to the union of the late Horace Carroll of Atlanta, Georgia and Thelma Jester Carroll White of Albany, Georgia. He received his early fruits of knowledge in the public-school systems of Atlanta, Camilla and Moultrie, Georgia. Following high school, Billy matriculated at the Agricultural and Technical College of Greensboro, North Carolina where he majored in Business Administration. He then attended Atlanta College of Mortuary Science and upon completion returned to his hometown roots in Camilla to operate a family-owned business.

A licensed funeral director and embalmer, Billy used his stewardship of the Robert Jester Mortuary to serve and comfort thousands of families during their times of bereavement. He and the entire staff did whatever it took to support the needs of those who entrusted Robert Jester Mortuary with the care of their dearly departed loved ones. He was a longtime member of the Georgia Funeral Services Practitioners Association, Inc. where he served as President from 1982 to 1984. He was chosen 4th District Mortician of the Year in 1972 and selected as Mortician of the year in 1988 by Alpha Gamma Chapter of Epsilon Nu Delta Mortuary Fraternity, Inc.

It has been said that ``Service is the rent we pay for the space we occupy on this earth.'' Billy Carroll paid his rent, and he paid it well! He gave his time, talent and treasure to numerous social and civic organizations to include City of Camilla Zoning Board; Mitchell County Hospital Endowment Board; Camilla Chamber of Commerce; Kiwanis Club of Mitchell County; NAACP; and Boys and Girls Club; to name a few. He was appointed by Gov. George Busbee to serve on the Georgia State Commission on Indian Affairs and by Gov. Joe Frank Harris to serve on the Governor's Education Review Commission. He

was politically astute, active, a trail blazer and was the first African American to run for City Commissioner in Camilla, Georgia. He received the Living History Award in 2009, the Great Man Award in 2017 and was honored by the Southern Poverty Law Center, the Georgia Department of Public Safety and was nominated by the African American Funeral Services Museum for the Hall of Fame.

A faithful man of God, Billy was an active member of Saint Peter AME Church where he was both a Steward and Trustee.

Billy accomplished much in his life, but none of it would have been possible without the grace of God, the love and support of his beloved wife, Naomi, and his two children, William Carroll, Jr., and Vinai Carroll English.

On a personal note, Billy was my friend and longtime supporter. Over the years he gave me wise and sage counsel, for which l will be forever grateful. Likewise, during his life he did so much for so many for so long. He touched countless lives and because he did, the world is a better place.

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 the 2nd Congressional District in honoring the life and service of Mr. William Maxwell ``Billy'' Carroll and in extending our deepest condolences to Mr. Carroll's family, friends and all who mourn his loss. May they all be consoled and comforted by an abiding faith and the Holy Spirit in the days, weeks and months ahead.

Mr. Speaker, one of the cardinal rules of negotiation is never to negotiate when you have a gun pointed at your head. The rationale is self-evident. One of the parties--namely, the party which is staring down the barrel of the gun--is more than likely going to either get the short end of the deal or, worse, end up dead.

In the case of the debt limit negotiations currently underway between President Biden and Speaker McCarthy, the risk isn't just that one of the parties will be unhappy with an agreement. If the United States defaults on the federal debt for the first time in the nation's history, it will risk a devastating wound to financial markets at home and around the world, push our country into a recession, erase 7.8 million jobs, and wipe out as much as $10 trillion in household wealth.

The crisis, of course, is a manufactured one. The national debt has increased under every presidential administration since Herbert Hoover. According to the U.S. Department of Treasury, Congress has acted 78 separate times to permanently raise, temporarily extend, or revise the definition of the debt limit--49 times under Republican presidents and 29 times under Democratic presidents.

Republicans aren't interested in getting our fiscal house in order. They don't want to address entitlement programs, which are the big drivers of projected spending growth. They don't want to touch raising revenues or cuts to military spending.

Instead, Republicans are aiming their weapon at nondefense discretionary spending. They want to slash funding for our nation's schools, our national parks, our farmers, and our police officers. Nondefense discretionary spending only accounts for 15 percent of the $6.3 trillion the government is expected to spend this year.

Republicans even want to take money away from health care for our nation's veterans. Their Default on America Act would underfund programs that help our veterans exposed to bum pits by $20 billion.

America must pay its bills as it has always done. At a time when America is facing many challenges at home and abroad--from inflation to competition with China to the ongoing war in Ukraine--we must ensure that our word is trusted. In the end, we must do what is right and raise the debt ceiling without any conditions and especially without a gun pointed at our heads.

Mr. Speaker, I want to commend the United Nations for declaring 2023 as the International Year of Millets. As the Ranking Member of the House Agriculture Appropriations Committee, I know first-hand the importance of finding a nutritional staple that has the potential of addressing both climate change and food insecurity in the near future.

This ancient crop is a staple of food in India, where it is often used in porridges and as rice substitutes, or as flour to make flatbreads and other baked goods.

Millets are known for being rich in dietary fiber as well as in potassium and protein. In fact, regular consumption of millets can reduce the risk of diabetes and obesity, improve cholesterol levels, and lower the risk of heart disease.

Millets also can be grown on lands poor in soil quality and lacking in irrigation, which make them invaluable in addressing food insecurity across the globe. They use 70 percent less water than rice; grow in half the time of wheat; and need 40 percent less energy in processing. They are so hardy that they can even withstand temperatures up to 50 degrees Celsius.

India has been a leader in the production, consumption, and promotion of millets. In fact, India is the largest producer of millets and one of the world's biggest exporters of this traditional staple of Indian cooking.

Not that long ago, the consumption of millets in India waned as wheat and rice took precedence. Now it is making a comeback as people in India and across the world recognize its nutritional and environmental value.

Again, I want to thank the United Nations and the Government of India for taking up this important issue.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a loving husband, dedicated father, doting grandfather, seasoned executive, benevolent public servant and dear family friend of long standing to my wife, Vivian, and me--Charles Edward Clark, Sr. Sadly, Charles transitioned from this life on March 27, 2023. On April 17, 2023, a memorial service celebrating his remarkable life was held at 11:00 a.m. in Columbus, Georgia at St. Luke United Methodist Church.

Charles Clark was born in Vienna, Georgia on August 26, 1939, to the union of Elbert and Elzada Clark. The oldest son of 11 children, his early education was in the Dooly County, Georgia School System. He went on to matriculate at Clark College (now Clark Atlanta University) in Atlanta where he became a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and earned a B.A. Degree in Business Administration in 1962. He proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam Era, rising to the rank of Corporal before receiving his Honorable Discharge.

Charles returned to Atlanta and went to work at the Urban League, beginning what would become a long and extraordinary career in government and community service. At the Urban League, he met the love of his life, Lillian ``Bunky'' McClung, daughter of former Columbus Mayor Pro Tem, A.J. and Mrs. Helen McClung. They were married in 1966 and to this blessed union were born two children: Charles ``Chuck'' Clark, Jr. and Candace Clark (Trinchieri).

Charles believed in education and demanded excellence from himself at every stage of his professional career. Hence, while working full time at the Urban League, he earned his law degree from the Woodrow Wilson College of Law in Atlanta in 1971. He began federal executive employment at the Office of Economic Opportunity regional office in Atlanta, moved to the Social Security Administration, then went on to earn a Master's Degree in Public Administration in 1973 from Stanford University in Palo Alto, California. He then returned to Atlanta to be Regional Director for Volunteers In Service To America (VISTA) and simultaneously earned a Master's in Organizational Psychology and Administration in 1976 from West Georgia College in Carrolton, Georgia.

Also in 1976, when his wife, Bunky, went to Washington, D.C. as part of the Jimmy Carter Presidential Transition Team, Charles became Special Assistant to Veterans Affairs Administrator and future U.S. Senator Max Cleland. He served in several positions in the VA, to include: Assistant Administrator, Office of Personnel and Labor Relations; Assistant for the Office of Human Goals; and Special Assistant to the Deputy Chief Medical Director. Charles later served as Associate Medical Director at VA Medical Centers in Reno, Nevada, San Francisco and Palo Alto, California. Because of his exceptional service, Charles received The Meritorious Executive Presidential Rank Award from the Department in 1995.

Upon retirement from the VA, Charles and Bunky moved back to Bunky's hometown of Columbus, Georgia where he served as Senior Vice President of Columbus Regional Healthcare System, Vice President of Columbus Regional Medical Foundation and Executive Director of Junior Achievement. In addition, Charles was active in community service, volunteering his time in several charitable organizations and was an active member of Saint Luke United Methodist Church.

In 2015, Charles was diagnosed with Alzheimer's. He used this challenge as an opportunity, becoming a staunch supporter of the Alzheimer's Association of Columbus and he led ``The Annual Walk to End Alzheimer's'' before moving to Sherman Oaks, California to live with his daughter, Candace, and her family.

It has been said that: ``Service is the rent we pay for the space we 'occupy on this earth''. Charles Clark paid his rent and paid it well. He gave his time, talents and treasure to so many social and civic organizations. 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 some day you will have been all of these''. Charles Clark lived those words.

On a personal note, Charles was my friend. He was my supporter. He even served as my extraordinary campaign manager in 2008. He 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 wife of 57 years, Bunky; his children, Chuck and Candace; and a host of friends and family who will miss him dearly.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join my wife, Vivian, and me, along with the more than 765,000 people of the 2nd Congressional District of Georgia in honoring the life and legacy of Mr. Charles Edward Clark, Sr. and in extending our deepest sympathies to his family, friends, and all who mourn his loss. We pray that they 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 dedicated man of God, a selfless humanitarian, and a humble servant, Minister Alfie A. Jelks. Minister Jelks was honored at his annual event, The Soul of My Footprint Brunch Gala on April 15, 2023, in Columbus, Georgia.

The journey of Minister Alfie Jelks began with his birth on April 14, 1968, in Tuskegee, Alabama. Minister Jelks is a proud product of the Muscogee County School System, graduating from Kendrick High School in 1986. An avid learner, Minister Jelks also earned an Associate of Science Degree in 1995 from the Chattahoochee Community College. He also received a B.S. Degree in Theology from Troy University in 2005 and a Master of Divinity Degree in 2015 from Great Plains Baptist Divinity School. Building on his love of God and his country, Minister Jelks received his commission as a United States Army Reserve Chaplain in 2009.

In 2000, Minister Jelks began his humanitarian journey to Jinga, Uganda with and only one credit card and no personal ties to anyone there. From this initiative, The Soul of My Footprint was born. The Primary purpose of this initiative is the dissemination of provisional supplies of medicine, clothing, and basic care items for the people of Jinga, Uganda. Another mission of this wonderful organization is to provide scholarships to high school seniors who are philanthropic and plan to major in the fields of science, social services, education, theology, or non-profit work. Minister Jelks was moved by his faith to begin this ministry. His commitment to humankind has been based on Matthew 25 when Jesus said that He wanted to feed the hungry, clothe the naked and visit those that were in prison as the center of His ministry. Minister Jelks made subsequent trips to Uganda in 2001, 2007, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2019, 2021, and 2022. Through his continuous effort and labor of love, the Soul of My Footprint Hospital in conjunction with Cook Dental Care will open in the fall of 2023. Because of his gift of collaboration with many different organizations in Columbus, Georgia, over one thousand pairs of shoes have been donated to the people of Jinga.

As a man who is proud of his heritage, Minister Jelks opened Alfie's African Treasures, selling rare and unique African Artifacts and Greek Fraternal Paraphernalia. Always seeking ways to educate youth about their heritage, Minister Jelks established ``Alfie's African Treasures Annual Cultural Show.''

Minister Jelks has created many partnerships in the furtherance of his mission of cultural enhancement to include The Muscogee County School System, The Boys and Girls Clubs, Big Brother-Big Sisters of Columbus, The Wellness Center, Columbus State University African Student Organization, The Black History Museum, and The Anne Elizabeth Shepherd Home.

It has been said that, ``The true person of success is not the person that climbs the ladder of this life with two hands but climbs the ladder of this life with one hand and reaches back with the other.'' Minister Alfie Jelks has dedicated his life to the uplift of others by climbing the ladder of this life with ``one hand and reaching back with the other.''

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join my wife, Vivian and me, along with the 765,000 people of the 2nd Congressional District, in honoring Minister Alfie Jelks for his lifetime of service to God, his community and humankind. May God continue to rain down his richest blessings on this remarkable ministry. To God Be the Glory.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a dedicated father, loving son, inspiring brother, and purposeful public Servant, dutiful soldier, and friend of longstanding, Mayor Ralph T. Brown, Jr. Sadly, Mayor Brown passed from labor to reward on March 24, 2023. A funeral service to celebrate his remarkable life was held on Sunday, April 2, 2023, at the Josh Gibson Center in Buena Vista, Georgia.

The journey of Mayor Ralph Brown began on January 10, 1960, when he was born to the union of Marie Fudge Brown and the late Ralph T. Brown, Sr. in Buena Vista, Marion County, Georgia. He was educated in the Marion County School System, graduating in 1977 from Tri-County High School. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1980 and served honorably as an Administrative Specialist and Recruiter.

During his service, he received numerous awards and commendations including Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officers Professional Development Ribbon, Advance Level, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbons, M16 Expert Qualification Badge Driver and Mechanic Badge, and Driver-W, U.S. Army, Gold Recruiter Badge. His duty stations included Ft. Knox, Kentucky, USARB Columbus, RC, and Overseas. He retired as Sergeant First Class with 21 years of service.

After retiring from the Army, Mayor Brown moved back to his beloved Buena Vista, eager to make a difference. He quickly became involved in the community, ultimately being elected Mayor. Mayor Brown served the citizens of Buena Vista with great distinction from 2000 to 2020, following in the footsteps of his mother who served on the City Council and as Mayor Pro Tem. Mayor Brown was a consensus builder during his time as Mayor. He

was always looking for common ground with his ultimate goal being the betterment of Buena Vista. He retired as Mayor in 2020 and passed the baton to his brother, Mayor Kevin Brown, continuing the family tradition of public service. Mayor Brown's propensity for service did not stop at the Mayor's Office. He was a community specialist with the West Central Georgia Community Action Council and a program coordinator with The Student Transition and Recovery Program (STAR) Program at the Macon County Board of Education. Mayor Brown was also a member of the American Legion Post 309 and the Mayor of Georgia Committee. The great agricultural chemist George Washington Carver once said that ``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.'' Mayor Ralph Brown was concerned about the ``least of these'' during his life and made that passion his life's work.

But more than that, he was driven by his faith. God ordered the steps of his life. He was a dedicated member of the Poplar Spring Baptist Church and a member of a weekly bible study group--(Men Talk).

On a personal note, Mayor Brown was my friend of long standing. He never told me what I wanted to hear, but he always told me what he felt I needed to hear. I will miss his wise advice and sage counsel. Mayor Brown accomplished much in his life, but none of it would have been possible without the Grace of God and the support of his family including his beloved mother, Marie Fudge Brown; his children, Leisha Hunter; Lakisha Hunter Echols; and April Brown-Swan; and a host of family and friends who will miss him deeply.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join my wife, Vivian, and me, along with the more than 765,000 constituents of Georgia's Second Congressional District in paying tribute to Mayor Ralph T. Brown, Jr. and in extending our deepest sympathies to his family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time of bereavement. 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. To God be the Glory for the life and legacy of Mayor Ralph T. Brown, Jr.

Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart and solemn remembrance that I rise today to honor the life and legacy of a great husband, loving father, doting grandfather, inspiring author, innovative entrepreneur, dedicated servant and friend of longstanding, Thomas ``Tommy'' Dortch, Jr. Sadly, Tommy transitioned from this life on February 15, 2023. His funeral service was held on Saturday, February 25, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Lithonia, Georgia. He leaves behind a legacy of service that will not soon be forgotten.

Tommy Dortch was born on April 12, 1950, in Toccoa, Georgia to the union of Thomas W. Dortch, Sr. and Lizzie Mae Dortch. He graduated in 1968 in the first racially integrated class of Whitman High School in Taccoa and received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Fort Valley State College (now University) thereafter. While at Fort Valley, he distinguished himself by being elected Student Government Association President. Tommy would then go on to receive several post- graduate degrees and fellowships, including a Master of Arts degree in Criminal Justice from Clark Atlanta University; a Ford Fellowship in the Urban Administration Program at Georgia State University; and Honorary Doctorates from Fayetteville State University, Jarvis Christian College, Fort Valley State University, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, and Livingstone College.

After graduating from Fort Valley, Tommy nobly began his professional career by running voter registration drives to increase voter participation among groups who were historically disenfranchised. In 1974, he began working as the Associate Director of the Georgia Democratic Party, and four years later began working for the office of Senator Sam Nunn, ultimately rising through the ranks to become the first African American State Director to serve in that capacity for a United States Senator.

Always an activist, in 1986, Tommy joined the 100 Black Men of America, Inc., widely known as an organization that is focused on leadership, education, health and wellness, and youth mentoring. Tommy served as Chairman of the 100 Black Men of Atlanta and served twice as the Chairman of the 100 Black Men of America's Board of Directors. His leadership was instrumental in transforming the organization as a powerful force for Black youth empowerment. Tommy was always looking for ways to help young people reach their full potential and in 1986, he founded the Black Alumni Hall of Fame Foundation, Inc.--an organization that has awarded over $1.1 million in scholarships to the students of our nation's Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

After sixteen years of government service, Tommy left his position as State Director to pursue his own business interests, including minority and small business development and non-profit organizations. He served as the CEO of the consulting firm TWD, Inc. and the Atlanta Transportation Systems, Inc.; Chairman and CEO of Cornerstone Parking; and Managing Partner of FAD Consulting, LLC. He co-founded the Georgia Association of Minority Entrepreneurs (GAME) to fill a void in the state as an-advocacy organization for minority business development. Tommy also co-founded the Greater Atlanta Economic Alliance as a capacity building development organization for the construction and transportation industries.

Tommy was a much sought-after speaker on both a national and international stage to governmental entities, corporations, and educational institutions. He also had many guest appearances on nationally acclaimed television programs to include The Oprah Winfrey Show, CNN, the National Press Club and C-SPAN to name a few.

Because of his advocacy and commitment to community service, Tommy was recognized by several national and international publications to include the 2001, 2002, 2003, and 2004 May editions of Ebony Magazine and one of its 100 Influential African Americans. The Atlanta Business Chronicle included him as one of its 100 most influential Atlantans from 2001 through 2014. Also, Tommy received numerous awards for his service and advocacy for humankind to include 2008 Community Service Professional of the Year; 2008 FraserNet Community Service Award; 2008 Global Leadership Empowerment Award; Atlanta Business Chronicle 50 Most Admired CEOs, and by the Atlanta Magazine as one of its 500 Most Influential Leaders.

Tommy also gave his time, talent, and treasure to many community organizations to include Vice Chairman of the Board of Grady Memorial Corporation; Chairman of the Board, Friendship Force International; Chairman of the Board, Fulton/Dekalb County Hospital Authority; Chairman of the Board of the Atlanta Business League; Chairman of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation; Board of Trustees, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University; Board of Trustees, Talladega College; and Board of Trustees, Clark Atlanta University.

On a personal note, Tommy was a friend for many years and, along with his wife, Carole, supported my public service in countless ways. I was blessed with his sage advice and counsel over the years, and the world is a better place because of the life that he led,

Jackie Robinson once said that ``a life isn't significant except for its impact on other lives.'' There is no doubt that the life of Thomas ``Tommy'' Dortch, Jr. profoundly impacted countless others. He did so much for so many for so long.

Tommy 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, Carole, his five children and fourteen grandchildren.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to have known a man with as much grace, class, and dignity as Thomas ``Tommy'' Dortch, Jr. I ask my colleagues to join my wife, Vivian, and me, along with the nearly 765,000 people of the Second Congressional District in extending our deepest condolences to his family. May they be comforted by their faith, the grace of God, and the Holy Spirit in the days, weeks, and months ahead.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding mentor, dedicated servant leader, Vietnam War Veteran, faithful servant of God, and dear friend of longstanding, Reverend Dr. Emmett Scott Aniton, Jr. for over four decades of service to his congregation at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. A celebration of his 44th Anniversary at the Church will be held on April 2, 2023 in Columbus, Georgia.

Rev. Emmett Scott Aniton, Jr. was born on March 8, 1940, in Oneonta, Alabama to the union of Mr. Emmett Scott Aniton, Sr. and Mrs. Estella Aniton Woods. He graduated from Southside High School in Etowah County, Alabama and earned his Bachelor of Theology from Selma University in 1964. Shortly thereafter, Rev. Aniton answered his nation's call to service and entered the United States Army, completing a tour of duty in Qui Nho'n Vietnam. He then returned home to Alabama where he matriculated at Alabama A&M University, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology.

After his service in Vietnam and earning his second college degree, Rev. Aniton first answered God's call to preach the Gospel by becoming the Pastor of First Baptist Church in Jacksonville, Alabama. There, he ministered to the needs of his congregation, christening infants, baptizing believers, performing marriages, and consoling bereaved families, all while developing and honing his skills as a church administrator and inspiring preacher.

In November of 1978, Rev. Aniton accepted the call to become the pastor of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, and he followed the Holy Spirit to Columbus, Georgia. His pastoral duties began in April of 1979 and he has faithfully and dutifully served for over four decades. Under Rev. Aniton's dynamic and spirit-filled leadership, Friendship Missionary Baptist Church has experienced tremendous growth-- spiritually, numerically, and in its building facilities.

Rev. Aniton's outstanding servant leadership did not stop at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church; his impact has been felt throughout the greater Columbus community and beyond. He has served on the boards of the Pastoral Institute, the Liberty Theatre, the Metro Columbus Urban League, and the Fourth Street Towers. He has served as the President of the Mount Calvary Congress of Christian Education and the Muscogee County Clergy Association; instructor for the General Missionary Baptist Convention, Georgia Congress of Christian Education, and the American Baptist Theological Seminary.

Sir Winston Churchill once said, ``You make a living by what you get, but you make a life by what you give.'' Rev. Emmett Scott Aniton has given of himself over forty years of dedicated service to the glory of God and to his faithful congregation.

Rev. Emmett Scott Aniton has received numerous awards, such as the NAACP Religious Affairs Award, the Rainbow PUSH Coalition Lifetime Achievement Award, the Peace, Unity, Honesty, and Leadership Award; and in May of 2021, received an Honorary Doctor of Divinity Degree from St. Thomas Christian College in Jacksonville, Florida.

Reverend Dr. Aniton has achieved so 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, Mrs. Dorothy Rigby Aniton; his children, Minister Rhonda Aniton Bell, Emmett Scott Aniton III, and Keisha Aniton Simmons; his grandchildren and other family members.

On a personal note, I have been blessed by Rev. Aniton's sage counsel and advice over the four decades that I have known him, and I am proud to call him my friend.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the 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 honoring and commending the Reverend Dr. Emmett Scott Aniton, Jr. for 44 years of dedicated service to Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. Moreover, we pray for God's continued blessings upon him and his family in the weeks, months and years ahead.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an inspiring woman of God, a loving wife, dedicated, doting grandmother, pace setting trailblazer, and friend to humankind, Reverend Jacqueline Delorise Smith. A retirement reception attended by her family, many friends and well-wishers was held on February 18, 2023, at 3:00 pm in Columbus, Georgia.

Reverend Smith's remarkable life began in Grady County, Georgia. She was educated in the Grady County School System at Washington Consolidated High School. She obtained her post-secondary education degrees in Sociology from both Thomas University and Bainbridge University.

Her professional pursuits took her to be the lead Psychiatric Assistant at Southwestern State Hospital and a Social Worker at Georgia Pine for the State of Georgia, serving for a period of 31 years. A multi-talented individual, she also trained as a Practical Nurse and worked as a CPR Instructor, Emergency Medical Technician and Home Health Technician.

Reverend's Smith's life was changed forever when she answered the call to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Because of her commitment to the Gospel and to God's people she was ordained as a Deacon in 1990 and in 1992 was elected to be an Intinerant Elder. She presented her first trial sermon in September of 1987.

Her pastoral care has taken her to many churches, often serving as the first female Pastor in these houses of God. She has served at the following churches during her powerful ministry to include Bryant Chapel in Reno, Georgia, Rock Hill in Beachton, Georgia, Saint John AME Church, Cedar Springs AME in Whigham, Georgia, she was the second female Pastor in Bainbridge, Georgia. This was followed by service at the St. Peter AME Church in Camilla, Georgia and the Bethel AME Church (Circuit) in Attapulgus, Georgia.

In 2004, her historical accomplishments on behalf of the Kingdom continued when she was appointed the first female Presiding Elder in the South Georgia Conference by Bishop Frank C. Cummings. She continued to pastor churches while serving as the presiding Elder to include Mount Olive in Ocilla, Georgia, Bethel AME in Alaptha, Georgia, St. Pete AMAE in Valdosta, Georgia, St. Paul AME in Valdosta, Georgia, Peyton AME in Claytonville/Valdosta, Georgia, Francis Lake in Lake Park, Georgia Bethel AME in Fitzgerald, Georgia and ATOC AME in Dawson, Georgia.

Her life is an example of how one person can make a difference when carrying out God's will for their lives. Presiding Elder Smith has served her God and she has served him well.

Presiding Elder has accomplished much in her life but none of her successes would have been possible without the Love of God and support of her husband, Charles Dewey Smith who serves as an area consultant of the Southwest Georgia District, their three children and nine grandchildren.

Mr. Speaker, my wife Vivian, and I, along with the more than 765,000 people of the Second Congressional District and my colleagues extend their congratulations to Presiding Elder in honor of her distinguished career in service to God and humankind. May the next phase of her life be filled with happiness and a continued servant's heart.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to extend my personal congratulations and best wishes to an exceptional community leader and outstanding citizen, Mr. Gerald Mixon, on his retirement as the Planning Director of the Middle Flint Area Planning and Development Corporation and the River Valley Regional Commission after 47 years of service. His retirement celebration was held on February 17, 2023 at the River Valley Regional Commission in Americus, Georgia.

For nearly five decades, Gerald has been a dedicated leader in the Middle and Southwest Georgia community, helping to bring much-needed resources and development opportunities to multiple counties in Georgia's Second District, including Dooly, Macon, Marion, Schley, Sumter, Taylor, and Webster counties. During his tenure, he has successfully applied

for countless federal programs to spur community development projects in his community, and he has been instrumental in working with local government and the various federal departments and agencies to improve the quality of life for Georgians.

As the Planning Director for the Middle Flint Area Planning and Development Corporation and the River Valley Regional Commission, Gerald Mixon has become a vital resource to the dozens of local government officials and non-profit institutions that fall within his reach. His deep knowledge and experience of the grant-writing process and bottom-up community development has positioned him to serve as an essential lifeline for these community leaders who often seek technical assistance and sound advice as they work to improve their communities and neighborhoods. His service in this regard served the community tremendously as local officials are often tasked with working together to implement region-wide projects under the Community Development Block Grant, including in transportation and infrastructure, housing, and anti-poverty programs.

Gerald has built an impressive career in his lifetime, planning and overseeing the successful completion of countless community development projects, including leading the efforts to implement numerous comprehensive plans for efficient and sustainable solid waste management in the Middle Flint and River Valley Regions. Amid frequent destructive tornadoes, hurricanes, and other severe weather-related incidents, Gerald authored eight pre-disaster plans for counties and cities across the region to help mitigate damage and the need for costly repairs following disasters. And he modernized his region's public safety apparatus by conceptualizing and organizing a seven- county Enhanced 911 center covering the largest service area in Georgia that went on to become the Middle Flint E-911 system, which is still in operation today.

Gerald has accomplished much throughout his life, but none of this would have been possible without the Grace of God and the love and support of his wife, Diane, and his three children, Heather, Stuart and David.

Sir Winston Churchill often said: ``You make your living by what you get; you make your life by what you give.'' The Middle and Southwest Georgia region is a better place today because Gerald Mixon gave so much to so many for so long to make our communities stronger, better place to live. As a man of tremendous work ethic, organizational talent, vision, and tact, his life's work has helped create prosperity and opportunities in Georgia that many may have once not thought possible.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the 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 Gerald Mixon upon the occasion of his retirement from an outstanding career of service to his beloved community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a loving husband, dedicated father, seasoned law enforcement executive, dear friend of longstanding to my wife Vivian and me, Lieutenant Colonel John Darr. An event celebrating his remarkable career in law enforcement was held on Thursday, February 23 at the Saint Luke Ministry Center in Columbus, Georgia.

The journey of Lieutenant Colonel Darr began in Fort Benning, Georgia. He attended Hardaway High School and Columbus State University.

Lieutenant Colonel Darr began his career with Muscogee County Sheriffs Office in 1988 serving in a variety of bureaus to include The Fugitive Apprehension Bureau, The Jail Bureau, Patrol Bureau, Court Bureau, and Investigative Bureau.

Because of his vast experience and his penchant for service, Lieutenant Colonel Darr ran for and was elected Sheriff of Muscogee County in 2008. He was subsequently reelected in 2012. During his tenure as Sheriff, Lieutenant Colonel Darr was a visionary leader who organized various community outreach programs. One of the first programs that he initiated was a program called project lifesaver. This program was the first of its kind in Muscogee County.

The program provided tracking bands to families of program individuals with cognitive disabilities to Autism and Alzheimer's. A compassionate community servant, Lt. Col. Darr helped to secure funding for bands for families that could not afford them as well as provided training for his deputies to be able to locate these individuals if they were in distress. He also found resources to promote these two programs by having an Autism Patrol Car and the All Cancer Support Vehicle.

Lt. Col Darr was also committed to reducing the recidivism rate at the Muscogee County Jail.

Always the visionary, he began several initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for inmates while housed at the jail. These initiatives include the Veterans Dorm, the Fatherhood Dorm, and the GED Dorm.

The Veterans Dorm was the first such initiative in the country and provided vast resources for those Veterans who were incarcerated. It helped them to deal with the ever-present issues of PTSD and substance abuse. In short, this initiative helped to prepare these Veterans for life after incarceration.

The Fatherhood Dorm initiative focused on inmates being able to be present fathers after their release from incarceration. This initiative focused to improving the literacy of fathers so that after their release they would have the literacy skills to better themselves and to be able to read to their children. Finally, the GED Dorm helped incarcerated individuals to obtain their GED's.

Because of these initiatives and his focus of Mental Health, Lt. Col Darr was responsible for the removal of a Federal Consent Decree that the jail had operated under since 1999.

Lt. Col Darr's remarkable service as Sheriff ended in 2016. He always looked for ways to help himself and his community. He came back at the Lt. Col for jail operations under current Muscogee County Sheriff Greg Countryman.

John Darr has held many titles in his life, but the most befitting is that of Servant. It has been said that ``Service is the rent that we pay for the space that we occupy here on this earth.'' John Darr has paid his rent and he has paid it well.

Lt. Col Darr has accomplished much in this life, but none of it would have been possible with the love and support of his wife Linda and their four children: Rachael, Michelle, Courtney and Troy.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the 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 Lt. Col John Darr on the occasion of his retirement from the Muscogee County Sheriff's Office and remarkable career in Law Enforcement. To God be the Glory.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a dedicated husband, loving father, accomplished professor, stellar researcher, and admiring trailblazer, Dr. Charles Magee. Dr. Magee was honored on Sunday, February 26, 2023, at an African American History Program at Mount Calvary Missionary Baptist Church in Cairo, Georgia.

The genesis of Dr. Magee's began in Prentis, Mississippi. He is a proud graduate of Johnson High School. Dr. Magee's higher education journey began at Alcorn State University where he received a bachelor's degree in Animal Science in 1970. He went on to receive a master's degree in Agricultural Engineering from the University of Minnesota at St. Paul in 1973. Finally, he received his Ph.D. in Agricultural and Biological Engineering from Cornell University in 1980.

Excellence has defined his extraordinary professional life. His professional career has taken him to some of the finest universities in the world to include the University of Minnesota at St. Paul, North Carolina A and T, Cornell University; the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville, Fort Valley State University, and Florida A and M University.

Throughout his career he has been a trailblazing professor and scholar. He was the first African American to earn a master's degree from the University of Minnesota; the first African American to earn a Ph.D. in Agricultural and biological engineering from Cornell University; the first African American graduate of a historically black college or university (Alcorn State University) to earn a Ph.D. in Agricultural and Biological Engineering; and the first African American assistant professor in the college of Agriculture at the University of Arkansas-Fayetteville. He developed the first patent in the history of Fort Valley State University and the Biological Systems Engineering (BSE) program at FAMU. He is a founding and charter member of the National Society of Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences and the first African American Engineer to be elected in the National Institute of Food and Agriculture Hall of Fame in 2020. Although he has been a trailblazer, his life has not been without his share of difficulties and obstacles. He has persevered and our Nation and world are better for it. Sometimes he had to stand alone, but he stood tall.

A selfless servant, Dr. Magee has always had at the forefront of his mind the fact that he must address the issue of underrepresented populations in STEM careers. Dr. Magee has meant the world to his students through his mentorship, some have even followed in his enormous footsteps. His influence has been paramount in their lives.

Dr. Magee is a creative genius who has had eight U.S. patents that have been approved and eight that are pending. His life is an example of how one person can make a difference when carrying out God's plan for their life.

The great Agricultural Chemist, George Washington Carver once said, ``It is not the style of clothes one wears, neither the kind of automobile one drives, nor the amount of money one has in the bank that counts. These mean nothing. It is simply service that measures success.'' Charles Magee is truly a servant.

Dr. Magee has accomplished much in his life but none of this would have been possible without the love and support of his wife, Audrey and his children, Candace and Darian.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join my wife, Vivian, and me, along with the more than 765,000 people in Georgia's Second Congressional District in extending our sincerest gratitude to Dr. Charles Magee for his service to God, humankind, and our world. To God be the Glory.