Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, it is my honor and pleasure to extend my personal congratulations and best wishes to a gifted educator and devoted community leader, Dr. Chris Markwood, on his retirement as the President of Columbus State University (CSU). Dr. Markwood's retirement from three decades of work in higher education will be celebrated at a reception on June 23, 2022, at the Cunningham Conference Center in Columbus, Georgia.

Dr. Markwood earned a bachelor's degree in Political Science and History from Southwest Baptist University in Bolivar, Missouri. He then returned to his native state of Texas to earn his doctorate and a master's degree in Political Science from the University of Missouri- Columbia.

Before beginning his tenure as President of Columbus State University, Dr. Markwood ascended to several distinguished higher education positions across the United States, including the inaugural Dean of the University of Central Oklahoma's College of Arts, Media & Design; interim chancellor at the University of Wisconsin-Superior; and provost and vice president for Academic Affairs at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi.

In June of 2015, Dr. Markwood joined Columbus State University as the institution's fifth president, where he implemented an ambitious plan to reconnect the university with the greater Columbus community of fostering ``communiversity.'' During seven years of dedicated service, Dr. Markwood not only led CSU to achieve outstanding academic success but also oversaw the growth of community events such as Winter Fest, a holiday festival that brings thousands from the surrounding Columbus area to CSU's Main Campus every year for a celebration of the many religions, cultures, and traditions that live in the hearts of the people of the Chattahoochee Valley. Dr. Markwood's philosophy of ``communiversity'' has certainly paid off, expanding the reach of the University into the greater Columbus area and forging bonds that have created new opportunities for students, graduates, and the businesses that serve as the economic backbone of the community. This includes CSU being among the inaugural group of University System of Georgia institutions offering the system's new nexus degree programs--designed to aid more Georgians in accessing careers in high-demand areas and to help employers identify highly qualified talent.

Under Dr. Markwood's leadership, Columbus State University has remained a mainstay in the U.S. News and World Report's ranking of regional public universities and the publication's mobility index. Other publications and websites have lauded the university's academic strengths in business, communication, nursing, and online degrees, as well as its military-friendly environment. Additionally, CSU has introduced nearly thirty new undergraduate and graduate degree offerings, a nearly equal number of new certificate programs, and modernized more than a dozen academic programs to better serve its students. This transformation was exemplified through several corporate-community-academic partnerships, such as the creation of new cybersecurity and robotics engineering programs in collaboration with TSYS, Fort Benning, and Pratt & Whitney. Moreover, under Dr. Markwood's tenure, CSU demonstrated its preeminence in the arts by launching a new film production degree in partnership with the Georgia Film Academy, and created Flat Rock Studio, a state-of-the-art film and television production campus, with support of Columbus' own W.C. Bradley. These robust community partnerships have positioned Columbus State University and its students extremely well for successful future careers in an expanding field of job opportunities.

Dr. Markwood has been honored both locally and statewide; in 2021, he received the Meritorious Public Service Medal from the Department of the Army--presented by Major Gen. Patrick Donahoe, Commanding General of the U.S. Army Maneuver Center of Excellence and Fort Benning. He has also been included on Georgia Trend's 2022 list ``100 Most Influential Georgians'' which marked his sixth consecutive appearance among the handful of university presidents across the state to be included each year. Dr. Markwood currently serves as an executive committee member of the Peach Belt Conference, a member of the Georgia Council on Economic Education's Board of Trustees and the University System of Georgia's Comprehensive Administrative Review Steering Committee. He is also a longtime Rotarian and current member of the Columbus Rotary Club.

Dr. Markwood's official service at CSU will soon be coming to an end, but his dedication to helping others will continue. As a servant leader and man of faith, Dr. Markwood has shown a strong commitment to both serving students and improving the quality of life in the Chattahoochee Valley. Dr. Chris Markwood has accomplished much in his life, but none of it would have been possible without the grace of God; the love and support of his wife, Bridget, and their daughter, Reagan.

Nelson Mandela once said that ``education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.'' Dr. Chris Markwood has dedicated his life's work to educating scholars who will turn their passions into thriving careers that will improve our communities and change the world.

Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join my wife, Vivian, and me along with the more than 730,000 residents of the Second Congressional District of Georgia in extending our sincerest appreciation and best wishes to Dr. Chris Markwood, and his family, upon the occasion of his retirement. Throughout his career, Dr. Markwood has done so much for so many for so long and we wish him the very best as he embarks upon the next chapter of his life.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an awesome visionary, college administrator, educational expert, consensus building community leader and friend of long standing--Dr. Anthony Owens Parker. Sadly, Dr. Parker transitioned on June 6, 2022. His homegoing service was held at the Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Albany, Georgia on June 10, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. The amazing story of Dr. Anthony Parker began with his birth on January 12, 1953, in Orangeburg, S.C. to the union of the late Mr. Lee and Mrs. Henretta Parker. He was reared in St. Matthews, South Carolina where he spent his formative years. He attended John Ford High School, but ultimately graduated from St. Matthews High School in 1971.

His higher education journey took him to his beloved South Carolina State University where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting and Master's Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling. Always seeking to improve himself through education, he went on to earn a Specialist in Education Degree from Augusta State University and his PH.D from the University of South Carolina. In addition, he is also a graduate of the Institute of Educational Management at the Harvard University Graduate School. His professional journey of excellence began as a marketing instructor at Augusta Technical College before becoming the Vice President of Student Services at both Southeastern Technical College and Aiken Technical College. These positions were the foundation for his next post which would change the course of technical education in Southwest Georgia when he was named as the fifth president of Albany Technical College in 1995.

At the time of his passing, he was the longest serving President in the Technical College System of Georgia with 27 years. During his presidency, he raised the bar of excellence for himself, Albany Technical College, and Southwest Georgia. Dr. Parker's vision was keenly focused on establishing the college as a workforce development institution that placed graduates in sustainable employment opportunities that would improve the quality of their lives and by extension the Southwest Georgia Region. He was truly community focused and knew the college could not reach its full potential unless it had the support of the community. He developed partnerships with community organizations, industry and other institutions of higher learning in the State which enhance the impact of Albany Technical College in fulfilling its mission. Because of his visionary leadership, Albany Technical College is ranked among the top technical colleges in Georgia and in the Nation.

Anthony Parker was a man of faith. Throughout his life he demonstrated Christian principles and during his later years worshiped faithfully at Bethel AME Church in Albany, Georgia. Moreover, he achieved many successes during his life and career, but none of this would have been possible without the grace of God; his high school sweetheart and loving wife of 49 years, Sandra Pinkney Parker; his children, Dr. Kimberly A. Parker, Commander Andrea Parker Smith and Richard Anthony Parker; along with his granddaughter, Parker Elizabeth Smith.

On a personal note, Dr. Parker was my friend and my brother in the bond of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. I was always impressed by his calm demeanor and his knack for dealing with people in a respectful way even under the most difficult circumstances. He was humble and always treated people the way they deserved to be treated. Dr. George Washington Carver was often quoted as saying: ``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. Anthony O. Parker was such a man. He rose from humble beginnings and achieved the pinnacle of success because he accepted and fulfilled God's purpose for his life. Albany Technical College, Southwest Georgia, our Nation, and the world are better because Dr. Anthony Owens Parker passed this way.

Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join my wife, Vivian, and me, along with the more than 730,000 residents of Georgia's Second Congressional District, in paying tribute to Dr. Anthony O. Parker and in extending our deepest sympathies to his family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult period of bereavement. Moreover, we pray that they will be consoled and comforted by an abiding faith and the Holy Spirit in the days, weeks, and months ahead.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor, commend, and extend my congratulations to a gifted educator, dedicated community leader, and great team builder, Dr. Curtis L. Jones, Jr. Dr. Jones retired from his role as Superintendent of the Bibb County, Georgia School District, and a retirement celebration was held on Friday, May 27, 2022, at The Macon Coliseum located at 200 Coliseum Drive in Macon, Georgia.

Born to the union of Reverend Curtis L. Jones and Mrs. Roberta Prescott Jones, Dr. Jones earned his bachelor's degree at the United States Military Academy at West Point and went on to complete a distinguished military career in the U.S. Army, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. He earned a Master of Business Administration from Albany State University in Albany, Georgia, an Education Specialist Degree from Lincoln Memorial University, and a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Nova Southeastern University.

For nearly two decades, Dr. Jones has been an effective and trusted leader in multiple roles in public education administration in the state of Georgia. He established an impressive career beginning as a JROTC instructor with the Griffin-Spalding County School System in Griffin, Georgia, moving to the positions of High School Principal, Assistant Superintendent, and thereafter, Superintendent of Schools.

On April 6, 2015, he became Superintendent of the Bibb County School District in Macon, Georgia, and worked tirelessly with teachers, administrators, and other support staff to transform the students of Bibb County into scholars, leaders, and good citizens. While leading the Bibb County School District, Dr. Jones has worked to enhance literacy and classroom learning through the development of a District Literacy Plan, which led to student growth on the Georgia Milestones Assessments. He led two voter-approved Education Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (ESPLOST) campaigns, which funded the opening of six new school buildings and countless school renovation projects. His commitment to equity motivated him to secure major technology improvements assuring that every child has equal access to high-quality technology resources. During his tenure as Superintendent, the Bibb County School District has made great gains in improving its graduation rate from 58.9 percent in 2014 to 80.67 percent in 2021.

Under his exceptional leadership, the District has received Georgia's College Board Linking Award for having more than 80 percent of juniors and seniors utilizing Khan Academy for SAT preparation (2017); the Digital School District Survey Award for Large Student Population Districts category, and along with its Board of Education has been named both a Distinguished and Exemplary Board by the Georgia School Boards Association (2018). Bibb County was featured in The District Management Journal, in an article titled ``Raising Achievement and Addressing Equity at Bibb County Schools'' and as a case study with K- 12 Insight for its work in improving stakeholder communications through its use of the Let's Talk! platform. In addition to these achievements, seven schools have achieved Leader in Me Lighthouse School status (2022), and the District has achieved accreditation from AdvancED, (now Cognia), with two schools--Skyview and Carter Elementary Schools, being recognized as National Elementary and Secondary Education Act Title I Schools of Distinction.

Dr. Jones' leadership has made a tremendous impact on the many educators and administrators in the District, as numerous leaders and staff members have been recognized at the state and national levels, and have been invited to serve as leading panelists and make presentations on how Bibb has demonstrated success.

Winston Churchill once said: ``You make your living by what you get, you make your life by what you give.'' Dr. Curtis L. Jones, Jr. has given so much to the Bibb County School District, its educators, its administrators, and most importantly, its students. He has cast a wide net in his service as an educator, and Bibb County, our state, and our nation are better because of his work.

In addition to his work for the Bibb County School District, Dr. Jones is engaged in numerous professional and community organizations including the Rotary Club of Macon and the Kiwanis Club of Macon. He serves on several community boards including those for the Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce and the United Way of Central Georgia. He is a past governing board member for The School Superintendents Association (AASA) and past president of the Georgia School Superintendents Association (GSSA).

For his work in educational leadership and administration, Dr. Jones has received several

awards and commendations including the President's Award from the Georgia School Superintendents Association (2021); the Bill Barr Leadership Award (2016); the AdvancED Excellence in Education Award (2018); and the 2019 Georgia Superintendent of the Year award. He was named one of four finalists for 2019 National Superintendent of the Year by The School Superintendents Association (AASA) and the 2019 National Superintendent of the Year at AASA's National Conference on Education.

Dr. Jones has accomplished 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, Evelyn, their three children, and grandchildren. Their support has, no doubt, been the wind beneath his wings.

Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join my wife, Vivian, and me along with the more than 730,000 people of the Second Congressional District, in honoring, commending, and extending our sincerest appreciation and best wishes to Dr. Curtis L. Jones, Jr. upon the occasion of his retirement from an outstanding career in Elementary and Secondary Education Administration and his continued service to humanity.

Madam Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman for yielding, and I thank her for her passion and compassion in confronting this issue.

As chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies, I am glad to support Chairwoman DeLauro as we address the infant formula crisis facing America. We are working toward ensuring that parents and other caregivers have access to safe and affordable nutrition for the babies in their care.

The emergency funds allocated by this bill will help safely expedite the inspection of the country's infant formula supply and quickly get it back on the shelves of stores across the country.

But we must also address how such a crisis came to pass in the first place. How did a manufacturer, a company responsible for over 40 percent of a Nation's infant formula supply, have an unclean facility? How was this situation left unchecked? How did it lead to hospitalization and the death of babies?

Congress will be scrutinizing this crisis with the FDA and manufacturers in the days ahead. I look forward to my subcommittee hosting the first hearing in this regard with FDA Commissioner Robert Califf tomorrow morning.

I have often stood on this very floor to tout the importance of the FDA and how it touches every single family and every life in America. Today is a stark reminder of that fact. The FDA is at the forefront of our system of checks to ensure that our food and our medicine, including infant formula, meet the nutritional standards, the nutritional needs, and that they are safe for our consumers.

We must ensure the safety of and reestablish Americans' confidence in the infant formula that they purchase. That means getting more inspectors out in the field to make sure that the drive for corporate profit does not compromise infant formula safety. It also means making sure families are not being sold fake formula or subjected to price gouging from bad actors and hoarders looking to take advantage of the crisis.

I have heard from families who are distraught at the news of this crisis. They want to know how a tainted product got to the market; how come there is not enough baby formula to replenish store shelves; and what we are doing to make sure they have access to safe baby formula quickly.

This bill provides the funds to improve the safety of, to reduce fraud in, and to better understand the pressures and vulnerabilities of the infant formula market. It helps address the shortage we face today while getting us the data we need to prevent this from happening again.

Families are willing to make tremendous sacrifices for and investments in the safety and well-being of their children. Making sure their children are fed is one of the most fundamental concerns parents face. By passing this bill, Congress is standing up for our families.

Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to pass this bill. Let's make sure that the infants in America have safe and available formula.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor and commend a distinguished public servant, principled business leader, trailblazer, and friend of longstanding, State Representative Calvin Smyre of Columbus, Georgia.

Representative Smyre is completing a long and stellar career, spanning 48 years as a member of the Georgia State House of Representatives, where he is the longest serving member in the Georgia legislature. His leadership and political savvy have contributed to a great legacy of service to his community, the State of Georgia, and our nation, and tonight, he will be honored by the Greater Columbus, Georgia Chamber of Commerce in recognition of his tremendous career in public service.

Calvin Smyre was born in Columbus, Georgia on May 17, 1947, to Chief Warrant Officer Ill Carter Smyre, Jr. and the late Mildred Bass Smyre. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Fort Valley State University in Business Administration with a minor in Accounting.

His career path has taken him from being a community organizer in the ``War on Poverty'' to corporate executive for a Fortune 500 company and a trailblazing national political leader.

Starting in 1976, as a management trainee at the Columbus Bank and Trust Company, the Columbus-based division of Synovus Financial Corporation, he rose through the ranks to become Vice President of Corporate and External Affairs, President of the Synovus Foundation, and ultimately Senior Vice President and Assistant to the Chairman for Community Affairs.

In 1974, at the age of 26, Calvin Smyre was elected to the Georgia State House of Representatives as its youngest member. In 1984, he was the first African American from Georgia elected to the Democratic National Committee.

In 1979, he was elected Chairman of the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus. In 1982, he was elected President of the Georgia Association of Black Elected Officials. In 1983, he was appointed by Georgia Governor Joe Frank Harris as Assistant Floor Leader, and in 1985, as the first African American Floor Leader. He has served as President of the National Black Caucus of State Legislators, Chairman of the Georgia House Minority Caucus, and Chairman of the Democratic Party of Georgia--these last two being firsts for an African American.

He has received numerous legislative awards and his legislative record includes authoring the bill making Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday a state holiday; creating the historic Georgia Dome, home of the Atlanta Falcons; and construction of the $62 million Columbus River Center.

He has served on numerous boards, including the Board of Trustees of the Morehouse School of Medicine; the Medical College of Georgia Foundation; the Columbus Museum; and as Chair of the Fort Valley State University Foundation. He was the catalyst for the annual Fountain City Classic football weekend, which brings 20,000 fans to Columbus, Georgia contributing millions of dollars to the local economy.

Representative Smyre is a man of faith and continues to be a lifelong member of the Ward Chapel AME Church in Columbus, Georgia.

Madam Speaker, last Fall, as Representative Smyre neared the end of his long and distinguished legislative and corporate careers, we were all delighted, when President Joseph Biden announced his intent to name Representative Smyre to the United States Diplomatic Corps as Ambassador from the United States to one of the Caribbean islands, pending full Senate Confirmation.

Longfellow wrote: ``The heights by great men reached and kept were not attained by sudden flight, but they, while their companions slept, were toiling upward in the night.'' Representative Smyre has achieved great heights and through his service has done so much for so many for so long.

Therefore, Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join my wife, Vivian, and me, along with the Greater Columbus, Georgia Chamber of Commerce, the more than 730,000 people of the Second Congressional District, his friends, family, and admirers across the country in congratulating, honoring, and commending The Honorable Calvin Smyre for his many years of public service. Moreover, we wish him the best for an imminent and successful Senate Confirmation as he moves into the next chapter of his life.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Georgia High

School Association 2021-2022 AAAA Boys Basketball Georgia State Champions, the William Henry Spencer High School Greenwave of Columbus, Georgia.

On Wednesday, March 9, 2022, the Greenwave won the state championship game against Westover High School by a score of 62-42. This was the fifth game of the season against the Westover Patriots, and it was an exciting end to their series. This historic victory marked the first state title championship for William Henry Spencer High School.

Their victory in this season's AAAA state championship follows years of frustration, but their hard work and determination this year came bursting forth into an unbelievable season of teamwork and athletic excellence. The perseverance of the Greenwave, after a 28-game winning streak in the team's impressive 30-2 record, was clearly shown by this spectacular season.

This talented roster consisted of seniors, Kyrie Deas, Jamie Jackson, and Randall Dixon; juniors, Jonathan Holmes, Ryan Mobley, Jhalienne Drake, Antonio ``TJ'' Cochran, Tycen McDaniels, Wy'Darius Scott, and Vasean Moody; sophomores, Mor-Le'Draeyon ``Dray'' Duncan, Gary Gaithers, and Key'Shaun Sampton; and a freshman, Tony Montgomery.

I cannot put into words the tremendous pride that the citizens of Columbus, and indeed the entire Second Congressional District, have in being able to call this outstanding team of athletes their own. They have accomplished an incredible feat, one that could not have been possible without the tireless leadership and encouragement from their Co-Athletic Director and Head Varsity Coach, Quantavious Allen; Co- Athletic Director, Joseph Kegler; Assistant Coach, the late Douglas Cromartie; the Principal, Assistant Principal, teachers, and support staff as well as their families, classmates, and members of the community who believed in them and their ability to bring home a state championship title.

Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join my wife, Vivian, and me, along with the more than 730,000 people of Georgia's Second Congressional District in congratulating and honoring these hardworking young men who have persevered, sacrificed, and achieved the pinnacle of success in basketball--the Georgia AAAA State Championship title.

Mr. Speaker, as dean of the Georgia delegation, I regret to inform the House that our former colleague, the Honorable James Roy Rowland, Jr., passed away. He was a beloved husband, father, and friend. I had the honor of working with him and serving with him in the Georgia State legislature as well as here in this House of Representatives.

He was courageous in his convictions and a steadfast advocate for better healthcare for all Americans, especially our military veterans.

He served in the House from 1983 through 1995. During that time, he was a member of several committees including the Veterans' Affairs, Armed Services, Public Works and Transportation, and Government Operations, as well as the Select Committee on Narcotics Abuse and Control and the Select Committee on Children, Youth, and Families.

We were both Distinguished Eagle Scouts, and I had the pleasure of presenting him with that award in 2014. In attendance were many current and former congressional colleagues, both Democrats and Republicans. It was a testament to the warmth and care he embodied as well as his bipartisanship.

I noted at the time that the trail that Eagle Scouts walk never ends. Such was the life of J. Roy Rowland who became an Eagle Scout in 1942. He went on to serve the U.S. Army and was a veteran of World War II. He was a physician, an author, a philanthropist, and a public servant who made our community and our world a better place to live in so many ways.

He led a distinguished and honorable life, and he will be greatly missed. Our

thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, Luella, his children, and his entire family.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that this House observe a moment of silence in remembrance of the late Honorable James Roy Rowland, Jr.

Madam Speaker, it is with a heavy heart and solemn remembrance that I rise today, to pay tribute to an extraordinary sailor, World War II veteran, and dedicated civil servant, Mr. Roger H. Spooner, who transitioned from labor to reward on Thursday, February 24, 2022, at the age of 99. His funeral service was held on Sunday, February 27, 2022, at 3:00 p.m. under the ``Spooner Oak'' on Bartow Gibson Highway in Seminole County, Georgia.

Roger Hern Spooner was born November 18, 1922, as one of eight children to the union of Lewis and Delia Spooner.

In his pursuit of a life outside of farming, Roger answered the call to serve his nation when he enlisted in the U.S. Navy in October of 1941 at the age of 18. After completing boot camp, he was sent to the aircraft carrier,

U.S.S. Yorktown, with a destination of Pearl Harbor, which had just been bombed. After arriving at Pearl Harbor and witnessing the remnants of damage and lingering smoke from the invasion, the crew of 2,500 sailors headed to the coast of Australia. In May of 1942, during the Battle of the Coral Sea, Roger saw action when the U.S.S. Yorktown endured damage, and the crew suffered 61 casualties. Following the gruesome battle, the carrier and crew returned to the Navy yard at Pearl Harbor for repairs. Once repairs were made, the crew made their way to Midway Island to join other ships in preparation for the Battle of Midway, which took place in June of 1942. Many historians consider it to be the most important battle in the Pacific during World War II as it was a clash between the U.S. Navy and the Imperial Japanese Navy six months after the attack on Pearl Harbor.

During the Battle of Midway, the U.S.S. Yorktown incurred a massive hit beyond repair, and the crew was told to abandon ship. One-by-one every crew member went down a line into the water with their life preservers into water that was so oily that once they were covered, you could only see the whites of their eyes. After being stranded afloat for a day, Roger and his crewmates were rescued.

Roger served another four years in the Navy, where he attended submarine school and completed nine war patrols out of Perth, Australia. He was later discharged from the Navy as a Motor Machinist Mate Second Class, after being involved in a motorcycle accident. Following his military service, he continued to serve his community and make an impact in the lives of others by serving his fellow Veterans as a member of the American Legion Post 157, Donalsonville.

In addition to serving, farming, and raising his family, Roger also ventured into the trucking industry. He worked for a company for almost 18 months before he decided to go into trucking for himself in 1948. From there, he started his company, Spooner Farms Trucking, LLC. His first truck was a 1940s model ``gas burner'' GMC, but over the years, he acquired several Kenworths and Peterbilts. Roger's sons, David and Dennis; and his grandson Jake, joined his trucking business, which had as many as seven trucks running and always transported produce within a 125-mile radius of the shop.

Roger's love for his wife, his service, and his passion remained active until his passing. As such, he made sure to renew his licenses and maintain the upkeep for his 1999 Peterbilt 379 affectionately named ``Miss Eloise'', which he used to haul agricultural products, including bagged and liquid commodities. The truck's number (CV5) represented the U.S.S. Yorktown's identification number with a 12.7 Detroit engine and a 10-speed.

Mr. Roger H. Spooner lived his life by the Golden Rule which states ``Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.'' A man of great morals, he demonstrated this principle throughout his career and life, outstanding achievement, service, and public distinction. Our community, our state, and our nation are better because of him.

Roger 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 family including his late wife, Eloise; and his sons; Roger, Lewis, Thomas, David and Dennis; and his grandchildren.

Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join my wife, Vivian, and me, along with the more than 730,000 people of Georgia's Second Congressional District, in honoring the life and legacy of Mr. Roger H. Spooner for his remarkable service to his community, his nation and to humankind. Moreover, we extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends, loved ones, and all who grieve during this difficult time of bereavement. We pray that they will be consoled and comforted by an abiding faith and the Holy Spirit in the weeks, months, and years ahead.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an inspiring woman, loving wife, devoted mother, and woman of God, Pastor Rolesta B. Ellis. Sadly, Pastor Ellis transitioned from labor to reward on Monday, March 7, 2022, at the age of 89. Pastor Ellis lay in Honor at her beloved church, Calvary Pentecostal Tabernacle of Faith, on Thursday, March 10, 2022, and a homegoing service, celebrating her life was held on Friday, March 11, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. at the Cathedral of Prayer Church of God in Christ in Columbus, Georgia.

Pastor Rolesta Bernice Boddie Ellis was born in Rocky Mount, North Carolina on December 3, 1932, as the daughter of the late Mr. Octavis Boddie and Mrs. Julia Scott Vines as well the late Fred Vines.

Pastor Ellis met the love of her life, Master Sergeant Clarence Ellis, Sr., USA, Retired, her first year in high school, and the two married in 1951. For over 30 years, she was a dedicated military spouse who traveled extensively with her husband in the continental United States and abroad to Germany and France.

In addition to being a devoted spouse, Pastor Ellis was also a true Woman of Faith. Her commitment as a believer and servant of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, began at the age of 11 and continued through every stage of her life. She maintained lifelong memberships with two congregations, Parks Chapel in Fayetteville, North Carolina, and The Calvary Pentecostal Tabernacle in Richmond, Virginia, throughout her life. Once Pastor Ellis answered the call to minister to God's people, she established the Calvary Pentecostal Tabernacle of Faith in Columbus, Georgia, where she served as Pastor until she departed from this realm. She was also a founding member of the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance.

Mother Teresa once said that ``At the end of life we will not be judged by how many diplomas we have received, how much money we have made, how many great things we have done. We will be judged by whether ``. . . when I was hungry, you gave me something to eat, when I was naked, you clothed me, and whether, when I was homeless, you took me in.'' Pastor Rolesta B. Ellis lived her life to help other people. Because of her love for Jesus Christ and her service to the least of these, the world is indeed a better place.

On a personal note, Pastor Ellis was a special friend to me and encouraged me throughout my career as an attorney, state legislator, and Member of Congress. I will always value the wise counsel and sage advice she shared with me over the years. She did not tell me just what she thought I wanted to hear, but what she felt I needed to hear. My life was enriched because she touched me through her prayers and affirmations.

Pastor Ellis 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 family including her late husband of 66 and a half years, Clarence, Sr.; and her children, Clarence, Jr., Rolesta, Mario, and

Shelia. She will be greatly missed by her family, her congregation, her community, and all those whose lives she touched.

Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join my wife, Vivian, and me, along with the more than 730,000 people of the Second Congressional District of Georgia, in paying tribute to Pastor Rolesta B. Ellis for her lifetime of service to her God, her nation, and humankind. We extend our deepest condolences to Pastor Ellis' family during this difficult time of bereavement. We pray that they will be consoled and comforted by an abiding faith and the Holy Spirit in the days, weeks, and months ahead.

Madam Speaker, it is with a heavy heart and solemn remembrance that I rise today, to pay tribute to an extraordinary sailor, World War II veteran, and dedicated civil servant, Mr. Roger H. Spooner, who transitioned from labor to reward on Thursday, February 24, 2022, at the age of 99. His funeral service was held on Sunday, February 27, 2022, at 3:00 p.m. under the ``Spooner Oak'' on Bartow Gibson Highway in Seminole County, Georgia.

Roger Hern Spooner was born November 18, 1922, as one of eight children to the union of Lewis and Delia Spooner. In his pursuit of a life outside of farming, Roger answered the calI to serve his nation when he enlisted in the U.S. Navy in October of 1941 at the age of 18. After completing boot camp, he was sent to the aircraft carrier, USS Yorktown, with a destination of Pearl Harbor, which had just been bombed. After arriving at Pearl Harbor and witnessing the remnants of damage and lingering smoke from the invasion, the crew of 2,500 sailors headed to the coast of Australia. In May of 1942, during the Battle of the Coral Sea, Roger saw action when the USS Yorktown endured damage, and the crew suffered 61 casualties. Following the gruesome battle, the carrier and crew returned to the Navy yard at Pearl Harbor for repairs. Once repairs were made, the crew made their way to Midway Island to join other ships in preparation for the Battle of Midway, which took place in June of 1942. Many historians consider it to be the most important battle in the Pacific during World War II as it was a clash between the U.S. Navy and the Imperial Japanese Navy six months after the attack on Pearl Harbor.

During the Battle of Midway, the USS Yorktown incurred a massive hit beyond repair,

and the crew was told to abandon ship. One-by-one every crew member went down a line into the water with their life preservers into water that was so oily that once they were covered, you could only see the whites of their eyes. After being stranded afloat for a day, Roger and his crewmates were rescued.

Roger served another four years in the Navy, where he attended submarine school and completed nine war patrols out of Perth, Australia. He was later discharged from the Navy as a Motor Machinist Mate Second Class, after being involved in a motorcycle accident. Following his military service, he continued to serve his community and make an impact in the lives of others by serving his fellow Veterans as a member of the American Legion Post 157, Donalsonvile.

In addition to serving, farming, and raising his family, Roger also ventured into the trucking industry. He worked for a company for almost 18 months before he decided to go into trucking for himself in 1948. From there, he started his company, Spooner Farms Trucking, LLC. His first truck was a 1940s model ``gas burner'' GMC, but over the years, he acquired several Kenworths and Peterbilts. Roger's sons, David and Dennis; and his grandson Jake, joined his trucking business, which had as many as seven trucks running and always transported produce within a 125-mile radius of the shop.

Roger's love for his wife, his service, and his passion remained active until his passing. As such, he made sure to renew his licenses and maintain the upkeep for his 1999 Peterbilt 379 affectionately named ``Miss Eloise'', which he used to haul agricultural products, including bagged and liquid commodities. The truck's number (CV5) represented the USS Yorktown's identification number with a 12.7 Detroit engine and a 10-speed.

Mr. Roger H. Spooner lived his life by the Golden Rule which states ``Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.'' A man of great morals, he demonstrated this principle throughout his career and life, outstanding achievement, service, and public distinction. Our community, our state, and our Nation are better because of him.

Roger 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 family including his late wife, Eloise; and his sons; David and Dennis, and his grandchildren.

Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join my wife, Vivian, and me, along with the more than 730,000 people of Georgia's Second Congressional District, in honoring the life and legacy of Mr. Roger H. Spooner for his remarkable service to his community, his nation and to humankind. Moreover, we extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends, loved ones, and all who grieve during this difficult time of bereavement. We pray that they will be consoled and comforted by an abiding faith and the Holy Spirit in the weeks, months, and years ahead.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this bill. As Chairman of the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies subcommittee I am pleased to highlight the national priorities funded in our division which impacts the lives of all Americans from heartland to coast, farms to cities, and everything in between.

First, our bill makes important, USDA-wide investments to ensure equitable participation in USDA programs, address the impacts of climate change, and support staff and leadership offices at USDA.

The bill includes over $550 million for the expansion of broadband service, including $450 million for the Reconnect program.

Our bill fully funds all the domestic nutrition programs and includes a significant investment to increase the amounts of fruits and vegetables offered in the WIC program. Additionally, there is $2 billion for international food aid.

The bill provides $1.87 billion for farm programs, including $61 million in loan authority to address heirs property issues.

The bill includes $3.5 billion for agriculture research programs, including the Agricultural Research Service and the National Institute of Food and Agriculture to keep American agriculture the best and most bountiful in the world.

The bill includes a total of $3.3 billion for FDA and provides targeted increases to ensure Americans have access to the safest food and medicine.

This is a good bill and I urge my colleagues to support it.

I want to thank our Ranking Member, Andy Harris, and the majority and minority committee staff.

I also want to thank Chair DeLauro and Ranking Member Granger for their leadership through this process.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding and for bringing this resolution to the floor.

Today, I rise in strong support of this resolution condemning threats of violence against historically Black colleges and universities, or HBCUs, and reaffirming the important role that HBCUs play in our country's education, innovation, and leadership.

I am a proud graduate of Morehouse College, one of 107 HBCUs across this country. My district, in middle and southwest Georgia, is home to two distinguished HBCUs, Fort Valley State University and Albany State University, both of which were targeted during last month's bomb threats.

The incitement of fear and hatred is utterly unacceptable, should be intolerable, and has no place anywhere, let alone at our sacred places of learning.

These threats came on the cusp of Black History Month, and they remind us that we still have not achieved the colorblind world that was dreamed of by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and of the important educational mission and empowering roles that HBCUs play for the African-American community and our Nation.

Today, I urge my colleagues to support this resolution condemning these dangerous threats to our Nation's HBCUs and the African-American community and demand that those responsible be brought to justice for their heinous actions.

Madam Speaker, it is with a heavy heart and solemn remembrance that I rise today to pay homage to an outstanding man of God, published author, distinguished educator, life coach, and mentor, Bishop Leonard N. Smith. Bishop Smith transitioned from labor to reward on Sunday, February 20, 2022. His homegoing service will be held on Saturday, March 5, 2022, at 11 a.m. at the Mount Zion Baptist Church located at 18410 Chapel Drive in Triangle, Virginia. He leaves behind a loving family, his dedicated church congregation at the Mount Zion Baptist Church (MZBC), and an appreciative community for his extraordinary life of service to God and humankind.

Bishop Leonard N. Smith was born in Baltimore, Maryland, and raised in Washington, D.C. He was a man of God, truly devoted to his calling-- a calling from God, passed to him through his grandmother, whose powerful Christian teachings would later become the base for his powerful sermons.

Looking to further knowledge of the Word for himself and others, throughout his life, Bishop Smith pursued a bachelor's degree from Richmond Virginia Seminary, a master's degree in Divinity, and a Doctor of Ministry from the Virginia University of Lynchburg in addition to receiving nine honorary degrees. He also taught online classes at two seminaries as he furthered his own education.

His commitment to pastoral ministry excellence began in 1985 when Union Baptist Church in Gordonsville, Virginia called on him to serve as their Pastor and spiritual leader. After four and half years at Union Baptist, Bishop Smith was chosen to shepherd the congregation at Rivermont Baptist Church in Lynchburg, Virginia. In 1991, Mount Zion Baptist Church called him to become the successor to their then leader, Dr. Oswald G. Smith. Through Bishop Smith's dedicated leadership, Mount Zion grew both spiritually and numerically as it exemplified the teachings of Christ by provided tutoring, food assistance, financial and missions support to the surrounding community, and its residents as well as people and organizations throughout the state, nation, and world. Bishop Smith would go on to serve as the Senior Minister of Mount Zion Baptist Church for 30 years until his retirement from the ministry of God on December 31, 2021.

Bishop Smith believed strongly that involvement in his communities was an integral part of his calling as a Minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Accordingly, he served in numerous roles that had as their purpose the uplift of humankind. In addition to being the beloved Pastor of MZBC, he served proudly as the President of the Richmond, Virginia Seminary (2005 to 2008) and the President of the Virginia Baptist State Convention (2009 to 2012), where he served with integrity, innovation, and impassioned leadership. Bishop Smith was also involved with numerous county, denominational, educational, non- profit, and state boards & commissions including the Arlington County Fire and Police Departments (where he served as the Chaplain); the Richmond Virginia Seminary (where he was the Chancellor); Virginia University (where he served as the Assistant to the President); the Progressive National Baptist Convention, Inc. (where he was an active member who served in several capacities); the Global United Fellowship (where he was the Vice Presiding Bishop and the Global Leader of Pastors); and the Gospel Heritage Foundation (where he was an advisory board member).

Bishop Smith was also a sought-after lecturer, teacher, and with the release of his book entitled, ``We Need to Talk: Saying What We Need to Say Without Hurting Each Other'', he was also an author.

Bishop Smith 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 family including his wife, Yalonda; his children, Tiffany and Phillip; and all those in his congregation and community.

Mother Teresa once said that ``At the end of life we will not be judged by how many diplomas we have received, how much money we have made, how many great things we have done. We will be judged by whether ``. . . when I was hungry, you gave me something to eat, when I was naked, you clothed me, and whether, when I was homeless, you took me in.'' Bishop Leonard N. Smith, in his life and ministry, did just that, for the ``least of these'', and the world is better because he did.

Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to join my wife, Vivian, and me, along with countless others throughout the nation in honoring Bishop Leonard N. Smith for his service to God, his ministry, to his country, and to humankind; and in extending our deepest condolences to Dr. Smith's family, friends, loved ones, and all those 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.

Madam Speaker, it is my honor and pleasure to extend my personal congratulations and best wishes to an exceptional community leader, an outstanding educator, and a devoted man of God, Pastor John Wooden, on the occasion of his retirement. A retirement service will be held on Sunday, March 6, 2022, at 11 a.m.

Pastor John Wooden was born in Bainbridge, Georgia on May 7, 1966, to the union of Mr. Arthur Dean Wooden and Mrs. Willie Mae Wooden. After receiving his Associate degree from Bainbridge Junior College, Pastor Wooden went on to receive dual Bachelor's degrees in Marketing and Management from Valdosta State College; an educational certificate from Albany State University; a Master of Science degree in Leadership and an Educational Specialist degree from Nova Southeastern University; and completed religious training from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary.

As a staunch advocate for educating the next generation, Pastor Wooden served as an educator and school administrator for thirty years, serving as a Business Education teacher, Career Counselor, Assistant Principal at the Elementary, Middle, and High School levels, Middle School Principal, and as an Assistant Superintendent for schools in Decatur County, Georgia.

In addition to a three-decade career in public education, Pastor Wooden has also spent almost four decades teaching the word of the Lord. Pastor Wooden has been preaching for 38 years and pastoring for 35 years, first at First Mt. Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church from 1987 to 1990, and then at St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church from March 1987 until his retirement this year.

Pastor Wooden's distinguished pastoral career has been mirrored by his extensive involvement in his community. In conjunction with his professional accomplishments, Pastor Wooden has served his community as a board member of the United Way, Salvation Army, and the YMCA as well as a member of Kiwanis Club (Bainbridge) and the Rotary Club (Bainbridge).

In addition to being a stellar educator, a distinguished spiritual leader, and dedicated community advocate, Pastor Wooden is also a published author. His literary works include ``Uncensored Conversations'', ``Leading While Bleeding'', ``Don't Judge Me Unless You Have Walked In My Shoes'', ``Scarred, But Not Permanently Broken'', and ``Don't Live A Life Of Regrets''.

He has accomplished much throughout his life, but none of this would be possible without the grace of God and the inspiration, love, and support of his wife, Deborah; and his children, LaShannon and Chelsea.

Dr. Benjamin E. Mays often said: ``You make your living by what you get; you make your life by what you give.'' Bainbridge and Decatur County, Georgia are better because of Pastor John Wooden and his tireless commitment to making his community stronger. As a man of great faith and integrity, his efforts, his dedication, and his expertise are unparalleled. But his heart for teaching and helping others, utilizing these qualities, has made his life's work truly special.

Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join my wife, Vivian, and me and the more than 730,000 people in Georgia's Second Congressional District, in extending our sincerest appreciation and best wishes to Pastor John Wooden upon the occasion of his retirement from an outstanding career in the Ministry of Jesus Christ.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for yielding.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to support the Honoring our PACT Act, which will ensure that veterans who have been exposed to toxic substances, materials, or environments during their military service, particularly toxic burn pits and Agent Orange, will receive the care and benefits they deserve.

Exposure to these toxins has led to devastating health conditions suffered by veterans, including neurological disorders, pulmonary diseases, rare forms of cancer, and many other conditions.

In the past, the government has been too slow to recognize the link between exposure to toxic substances and the medical problems that veterans have dealt with when they returned home.

As a result, veterans and their families have been denied benefits and much-needed disability compensation to deal with the health effects of these toxins.

The Honoring our PACT Act would correct these errors and renew our solemn commitment to our Nation's veterans.

I urge my colleagues to support the Honoring our PACT Act to ensure that our country fulfills Abraham Lincoln's promise to care for him and her who shall have borne the battle.