Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a distinguished scholar, dedicated attorney, and true visionary, Ms. Sharon ``Nyota'' Tucker. Nyota was honored for her contributions to academia and her community on Saturday, April 13, 2019, at the University of Georgia School of Law.

A native of Dublin, Georgia, Sharon ``Nyota'' Tucker was born to the union of Mr. Willis Tucker and Mrs. Cornelia Tucker. During her junior year of high school, she joined six of her fellow classmates from Oconee High School in the integration of the previously all-white Dublin High School. This first-hand experience with desegregation convinced her that becoming a lawyer was the most effective means of combating racism, upholding the constitutional rights outlined in the Declaration of Independence, and forcing a system to correct itself. Nyota went on to earn her Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Howard University, before becoming the first African-American woman to receive a Juris Doctorate degree from the University of Georgia in 1974.

Upon becoming a member of the State Bar of Georgia in 1974, she served in a number of legal and academic positions, including staff attorney in the Albany office of the Georgia Legal Services Program; legal intern with the Earl Warren Fellowship Program in the San Francisco office, NAACP Legal Defense Fund; and associate with the Albany, Georgia Law Firm of Mary Young & Associates. During Nyota's impressive tenure at Albany State University (ASU), she served as a faculty member and pre-law advisor, as well as a dual role as ASU's University Counsel (for eight years) and ASU's Chief of Staff (for five years). Her time at ASU allowed her to work with some of the brightest, most creative, and determined students in higher education.

Nyota has been recognized numerous times for her professional and community work. She has received several Teacher of the Year Awards in addition to the 2015 Trailblazer Award by the UGA Black Law Student Association; the Justice Leah Ward Sears Award for Distinction in the Profession by the Georgia Association of Black Women Attorneys in 2016; the USG Chancellor's Recognition for Distinguished Service to the University System of Georgia in 2016; and both the 2018 and 2019 Beverly Burton New Board Member of the Year Award for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Georgia and the Southeast Region. Moreover, on April 13, 2019, the University of Georgia School of Law unveiled a portrait of Nyota honoring her impeccable legacy and influential leadership.

Former Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm once said that ``Service is the rent that we pay for the space that we occupy here on this earth.'' Nyota has paid her rent many times over and still continues to give a prodigious amount of love and service back to her community. She has served on the Board of Trustees for the Harry S. Truman Scholarship Foundation, the Board of Directors for Liberty House, and as a member of the Advisory Committee on Law and Criminal Justice at the Washington Center. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Albany and a member of the Dougherty County Hospital Authority Board.

Nyota has accomplished many things in her life, but none of these would have been possible without the enduring love and support of her loving children, Nairobi (deceased), Sadiqa, and Macharia; and her granddaughter, Imani.

Madam Speaker, today I ask my colleagues to join my wife, Vivian, and me, along with the more than 730,000 residents of Georgia's Second Congressional District, in recognizing and commending Ms. Sharon Nyota Tucker, J.D., on receiving a well-deserved effigy recognizing her commitment and contributions to her community and academic field.

Madam Speaker, I rise today on behalf of Americans affected by Sarcoidosis and other related inflammatory diseases to observe April as National Sarcoidosis Awareness Month.

Sarcoidosis can affect any part of the body and cause serious disabilities by forcing one's vital organs and central nervous system to become hyperactive. While this rare and devastating disease annually affects over 200,000 people throughout all demographics, there are significant racial, gender, and age-related differences, as it disproportionately impacts African-Americans, women, and individuals between the ages of 20 and 40.

Although research suggests the cause of Sarcoidosis is a combination of genetic and environmental factors, the exact cause and progression of the disease are still unknown. The unique nature of Sarcoidosis makes it an enigma in the realm of medical science, and despite increasing advances in research, it remains difficult to diagnose with limited treatment options and no known cure. Over the years, several of my colleagues and I have spoken on the House and Senate floors about this fatal disease. During the 103rd session of Congress, I introduced H.J. Res. 399, a House Joint Resolution designating Monday, August 29, 1994, as ``National Sarcoidosis Awareness Day'' while also urging my colleagues in Congress to support extensive research to find a suitable cure and treatment method for individuals with Sarcoidosis.

Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in recognizing April as National Sarcoidosis Awareness Month by acknowledging the need for more efficient research into the causes, diagnostics, and potential treatment options for Sarcoidosis. I am pleased to have the chance to bring a relatively unknown disease to light and to increase public awareness of the need to support individuals with this life-threatening ailment.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor an outstanding Man of God and friend of longstanding, Reverend Dr. Marcus J. Gibson, who will celebrate his 20th anniversary as the distinguished pastor of Greater Shady Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Columbus, Georgia. Anniversary worship services will be held on Sunday, April 14, 2019, at the church.

Rev. Gibson is a native of Pine Bluff, Arkansas, who served our nation honorably as a U.S. Army officer from 1995 to 1999, after graduating from Watson Chapel High School. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, a Master of Divinity degree from the Morehouse School of Religion, and a Doctorate of Ministry in Preaching from the McCormick Theological Seminary. Over the years, he has continued to encourage others to pursue advanced education through his service as an Adjunct Professor of Biblical and Religious Studies at the Beulah Heights University Columbus extension site.

Always seeking to improve the craft of Christian ministry and discipleship, Rev. Gibson has served as President of the Mt. Calvary Missionary Baptist Association Congress of Christian Education, President of the Metro-Columbus Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance, and Dean of the General Missionary Baptist Convention of Georgia Congress of Christian Education.

Not one to rest on his laurels, Rev. Gibson is an active member of many civic organizations where he continuously devotes his time and energy to his community. He is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and is a Master Mason in Electric Light Lodge No. 45, Arkansas Jurisdiction (Prince Hall Affiliation). Furthermore, Rev. Gibson has served as a member of the Muscogee County (Georgia) Sheriff's Advisory Board; a member of the Mayor's Commission on Unity, Diversity, and Prosperity; a member of the Citizens Trust Bank Columbus Advisory Board; and has worked with numerous other community-based organizations within the Columbus, Georgia area.

Rev. Gibson has achieved much in his life, but none of it would be possible but for the Grace of God and the love and the support of his son, MarDarius; and his daughter, MarKayla.

Madam Speaker, today I ask my colleagues to join my wife, Vivian; and me, along with the congregation of Greater Shady Grove Missionary Baptist Church and more than 730,000 residents of Georgia's Second Congressional District, in extending our sincerest congratulations to Reverend Dr. Marcus J. Gibson on this joyous occasion. A man of great accomplishment, he is an outstanding mentor, strong leader, and prominent community activist, but above all, he is a faithful servant of God.

Madam Speaker, it is my honor and pleasure to extend my personal congratulations and best wishes to an exceptional community leader and outstanding citizen, Mrs. Patricia ``Patty'' Parker Cullen, on the occasion of her retirement as the Executive Director of the River Valley Regional Commission.

A native of Phenix City, Alabama, Patty received both her bachelor's degree in Home Economics and her master's degree in Community Planning from Auburn University.

For almost four decades, she has been a well-respected leader in the community development industry in the Chattahoochee Valley region. She has built quite an impressive career, which began with her position as an Economic/Energy Planner for the Lower Chattahoochee Area Planning and Development Commission. During her extensive tenure in the community development industry, Patricia has held several leadership roles within the Lower Chattahoochee Area Planning and Development Commission, the Lower Chattahoochee Regional Development Center, and the River Valley Regional Commission. Patty has done a tremendous job in upholding the highest standards of achievement, service and public distinction.

Throughout her career, Patty has served on a number of boards and was affiliated with several associations including the Advisory Council at Auburn University; the American Planning Association; the Georgia Association of Regional Commissions; the Georgia Planning Association; and Kappa Kappa Gamma Alumni Association.

Patty has accomplished much throughout her life, but none of this would have been possible without the Grace of God and the love and support of her late husband, George; and her stepdaughter, Sally.

Sir Winston Churchill often said: ``You make your living by what you get; you make your life by what you give.'' The Lower Chattahoochee Valley area is a better place because Patty Cullen gave so much to so many to make our community stronger. As a woman of great integrity, her efforts, her dedication, and her expertise are unparalleled, but her heart for helping others utilizing these qualities has made her life's work truly special.

Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join my wife, Vivian; and me, along with the more than 730,000 citizens of Georgia's Second Congressional District, in extending our sincerest appreciation and best wishes to Patricia ``Patty'' Parker Cullen upon the occasion of her retirement from an outstanding career of public service.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding Man of God, Bishop C. James King, Jr., the Presiding Bishop of the Fourth Episcopal District of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, which spans the state of Alabama. On Thursday, April 11, 2019, Bishop King will be the distinguished preacher for the Ecumenical Service at St. James AME Church located at 1002 Sixth Avenue in Columbus, Georgia.

Bishop Charles James King, Jr. was born on May 15, 1948, to the union of the late Mr. Charles James King, Sr. and Mrs. Ruthie Mae Middlebrooks King. The Columbus, Georgia native is the eldest of 12 children and was reared by his grandparents. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree in History from Paine College in 1974, his Master of Divinity degree in the Old Testament from The Interdenominational Theological Center in 1979, and his Doctor of Ministry degree in Educational Administration with a special concentration in Program Development from Ashland Theological Seminary in 1994.

During his career, Bishop King has pastored several congregations including Murray Memorial CME Church in Georgia; Bunton Institutional CME Church in Washington, D.C.; Brown Memorial CME Church in Kentucky; Trinity Church and Murchison Tabernacle CME Church in Indiana; as well as Peoples Community CME Church, Phillips Memorial CME Church, and St. Phillips CME Church in Ohio. He has also played a leading role in several religious and community-based organizations including Presiding Elder of the Cincinnati-Dayton-Indianapolis District in the Ohio- Central Indiana Region; the Episcopal Director of Faith-Based and Community-Based Ministries in the Second Episcopal District covering churches from Maryland, District of Columbia, Virginia, and North Carolina; and a member and vice chair of The General Board of Personnel Services for the CME Church, before being elected the 63rd Bishop of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church in 2014.

Bishop King has always been a staunch advocate for helping economically disadvantaged adolescents and youth. As the President, CEO, and Founder of Project One, Inc., a faith-based non-profit corporation, he has helped over 15,000 youth become engaged in meaningful summer employment and after-school programs. He has also raised substantial amounts of funding to support youth through Project One programs like The Annual Summer Jobs Campaign; The Summer Earning and Enrichment Program; The Fatherhood Program; The Talented and Gifted Scholars (TAG) Program; and The After School University at the Alice Lucille Martin Educational Academy. Bishop King is the first C.M.E. preacher to serve as the Chair of the Board of Trustees for The Interdenominational Theological Center and has used his position to raise funds for the growth and expansion of the school.

Madam Speaker, today I ask my colleagues to join my wife, Vivian, and me, along with the congregation of St. James AME Church and the more than 730,000 residents of Georgia's Second Congressional District, in recognizing and commending a Columbus native son, Bishop C. James King, Jr., for his outstanding accomplishments in the ministry and his service to humankind. He is a man of great accomplishment, an outstanding mentor, and a prominent community leader, but above all, he is a faithful servant of God.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a distinguished public servant and a dedicated stateswoman, Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson who was honored in a dedication ceremony in Dallas, Texas on April 6, 2019 to rename Dallas Union Station in her honor. The former Dallas Union Station now bears the name Eddie Bernice Johnson Union Station.

Since its establishment in 1916, the Dallas Union Station has stood as a prominent landmark for the City of Dallas, serving as a historic social anchor and an intermodal transportation hub--consolidating the five main rail stations into one and making Dallas a major

transit center for the Southwestern United States. Just as the Dallas Union Station has significantly enhanced the quality of life for the Dallas area, so has Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, and I cannot think of a more deserving person to receive this monumental tribute.

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson is serving her 14th term representing the 30th Congressional District of Texas. She is the first African-American and woman to chair the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology (where she served as Ranking Member from 2011 to 2018) and is the Dean of the Texas Congressional delegation in addition to serving as Dean of the Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona Democratic Congressional Delegations. Congresswoman Johnson is also the highest- ranking Texan on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, the first nurse to be elected to the U.S. Congress, and a member of the Subcommittee on Aviation and the Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials.

Congresswoman Johnson was born on December 3, 1935, to the union of the late Lee Edward Johnson and Lillie Mae White Johnson in Waco, Texas. A true intellectual, she graduated from A.J. Moore High School at the age of sixteen. Soon after graduating, she began her studies in Nursing at Saint Mary's College of Notre Dame, where she excelled and became a registered nurse after passing the National Board Examination in 1955. She continued to advance her education by earning her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Texas Christian University in 1967 and her Master of Public Administration degree from Southern Methodist University in 1976.

Congresswoman Johnson began her career as the first female African- American Chief Psychiatric Nurse at the V.A. Hospital in Dallas. In 1972, she became the first nurse ever elected to the Texas State House and achieved that same distinction upon her election to the Texas Senate in 1986.

Congresswoman Johnson is more than a legislator. She is a servant to all humankind. In addition to her civic duties, she continues to give of herself to countless causes and organizations, such as her acclaimed initiative, A World of Women for World Peace, which has garnered national and international recognition. Dr. Maya Angelou once said that ``I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands; you need to be able to throw something back.'' During the more than 40 years that she has served as a public servant, Congresswoman Johnson has thrown a prodigious amount of love and service back to the state and nation she loves so dearly.

Congresswoman Johnson has achieved so much in her life, but none of it would have been possible without the love and support of her loving son, Kirk; and her grandsons, Kirk Jr., David, and James.

On a personal note, Congresswoman Johnson is my classmate, both of us having been elected in 1992. Immediately upon meeting her I was awed by her grace, dignity, class, elegance, and eloquence. Her manner of quiet persuasion and passion have propelled her to numerous leadership positions, including her election as Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus. She is a friend of longstanding and her deep humility and compassion reflect the timbre of her character.

Congresswoman Johnson is truly a stellar example of servant leadership. I am proud to have served alongside her in Congress where her friendship, leadership, and counsel are held in high regard by many.

Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join my wife, Vivian; and me, along with the people of the 30th Congressional District of Texas and countless others all across America, in extending our sincerest congratulations to Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson on this tremendous honor and lasting memorial to her legacy of service to her community, state, nation, and humankind.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the career and service of a dedicated military officer, civil servant, and outstanding citizen, Col. (ret.) George W. Steuber. Col. Steuber will be retiring from his post as Deputy Garrison Commander at Fort Benning on March 31, 2019, after almost a decade of extraordinary service, and will be honored in a retirement ceremony on Friday, March 29, 2019, at 3 p.m.

Col. Steuber received a bachelor's degree in Sociology and Psychology from the University of Minnesota and master's degrees in National Security Affairs, from the Naval Postgraduate School, and Strategic Studies, from the Naval War College. In addition to his extensive academic background, Col. Steuber is also a qualified linguist in Chinese (Mandarin) and Thai.

For almost five decades, Col. Steuber has been a well-respected and long-standing figure as an officer and civilian in our nation's military. He built quite an impressive career, which began shortly after his 17th birthday when he enlisted in the U.S. Army. He commenced his uniformed career as a private in basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, MO, later completed Officer Candidate School, and then served in several prestigious positions, including the Colonel directing TRADOC's International Armies Program Directorate at Fort Monroe, VA; a foreign area officer on peacekeeping missions in Cambodia, Somalia, and Haiti; a senior military advisor to the Czech Republic's Training and Doctrine Command; a senior military analyst in JFCOM J-9 working the Joint Urban Fires Program; and Garrison Commander for Fort Sill (2001-2003). Then as a civilian, he served as Deputy Garrison Commander for Fort Rucker (2005 to 2009).

Col. Steuber has received several prestigious awards for his outstanding military and civilian service, including the Legion of Merit (with Oak Leaf Cluster); Defense Meritorious Service Medal (with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters); Meritorious Service Medal (with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters); Joint Service Commendation Medal (with Oak Leaf Cluster); Army Commendation Medal (with Oak Leaf Cluster); Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Palm; Combat Infantryman Badge; Aerial Observer Badge; U.S. Parachute Badge; Joint Chief of Staff Identification Badge; Royal Thai Army Parachute Badge and Red Silk Aiguillette; Royal Thai Army Command and General Staff Badge; Republic of Vietnam Parachute Badge; Superior Civilian Service Award; and Commander's Award for Civilian Service.

During his tenure as Deputy Garrison Commander at Fort Benning, he was instrumental in the development of the newly formed Maneuver Center of Excellence, oversaw implementation of the Base Realignment and Closure activities, provided support for the complex integration of several key matters--including all missions on post, Forces Command in the inactivation of the 3D Infantry Division, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, and the reflagging and activation of the first task force in the United States, 1-28 IN Battalion.

Additionally, under his watch, annual services and support were provided to more than 70,000 soldiers, civilians, and contractors in five separate cantonment areas. He also provided guidance to all Fort Benning directorates to ensure proper management of 141,000 maneuver training acres, 15,800 range acres, 83 live fire ranges, 300 training areas, and 115 range and training area events, including command oversight for daily high-risk training events.

Col. Steuber has achieved much success in his life, but none would have been possible without the enduring love and support of his wife, Patricia; and their sons, Bill and Jon.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, ``Life's most persistent and urgent question is, `What are you doing for others?' '' Col. Steuber undoubtedly lives by this philosophy. From his commendable efforts for our nation's military, both at home and abroad as well as on active duty and as a civilian; his work has made a tremendous impact in the lives of many.

Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join my wife, Vivian, and me, along with the more than 730,000 residents of Georgia's Second Congressional District, in extending our sincerest congratulations and best wishes to Col. (ret.) George W. Steuber on the occasion of his retirement as Deputy Garrison Commander at Fort Benning and for an outstanding career of civil and public service.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the undefeated 2018-2019 AAAA Girls Basketball Georgia State Champions, the George Washington Carver High School Tigers of Columbus, Georgia. The team commemorated this significant milestone on Sunday, March 17, 2019, with a celebratory parade followed by a celebration of honor at the Columbus Civic Center.

On Friday, March 8, 2019, the Tigers won the state championship game against the Spalding Jaguars by a score of 56-44. This historic victory marked the first championship and undefeated season for the Tigers after coming up short in three Final Fours and two state championships. The team placed No. 1 in the MaxPreps AAAA Girls Basketball rankings for Region 1 and have won all but two of their previous 31 games this season by double digits.

Their victory in this year's AAAA state championship follows years of frustration, hard work, and determination bursting forth into an unbelievable season of teamwork and athletic excellence. The perseverance of these Tigers, after coming so close the past two seasons, including a 68-67 overtime loss to in-town rival Columbus High in the 2017 finals, was shown this year in their exciting victory. Moreover, the team completed this spectacular season with an astonishing overall win-loss record of 33-0.

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 head coach, Anson Hundley and his 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 women who have persevered, sacrificed, and achieved the pinnacle of success in basketball--the Georgia AAAA State Championship title.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 2018-2019 Georgia State Class A Public-School Basketball Champions, the Marion County Lady Eagles of Buena Vista, Georgia. The team commemorated this significant milestone on Thursday, March 21, 2019, with a celebration of honor at Marion County High School in Buena Vista, Georgia.

On Wednesday, March 6, 2019, fans at the Macon Coliseum observed as the Lady Eagles won the state championship game against the Calhoun County Cougars by a score of 50-38. The Lady Eagles outrebounded their opponents (with a rebound total of 40-to-27) and made 21 of 30 free throws. This victory marked the end of an incredible year of hard work. The team has been ranked No. 1 for the entirety of the 2018-2019 season with an unbelievable 29-1 win-loss record. This championship game also marks a remarkable comeback for the Lady Eagles, who lost last year's game to the Greenville girls' basketball team by a score of 73-52.

The Lady Eagles' victory in this year's final exemplifies years of tireless determination which culminated into an inspiring season of teamwork and athletic excellence, counting a total of 1,910 points across 30 games. I am thrilled to honor this team as they celebrate the first girls' basketball state championship in the school's history. The senior class has been among the most successful ever, graduating with a winning record of 92-24.

I cannot put into words the tremendous pride that the citizens of Buena Vista, and indeed in the entire Second Congressional District, have in being able to call this outstanding team of athletes their own. They have accomplished an amazing feat, one that could not have been possible without the direction and inspiration of their coach, Fran McPherson, and her 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 women who have persevered, sacrificed, and achieved the pinnacle of success in basketball--the Georgia Class A State Championship title.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 2018-2019 Class A Public-School Boys Basketball Georgia State Champions, the Calhoun County High School Cougars of Edison, Georgia. The team will commemorate this significant milestone with a celebratory parade on Friday, March 22, 2019 and a celebration of honor on Saturday, March 23, 2019.

On Wednesday, March 6, 2019, the Cougars won the state championship game against the Treutlen Vikings by a score of 69-67. This historic victory marked an undefeated season for the Cougars as well as their second state championship. The team also placed No. 1 in the MaxPreps Class A Basketball rankings for Region 1 and for the state of Georgia with a Region win-loss record of 19-0.

Their victory in this year's state championship follows years of frustration, hard work, and determination bursting forth into an incredible season of teamwork and athletic excellence. The perseverance of these Cougars was shown this year in their exciting victory. Moreover, the team completed this spectacular season with an astonishing overall win-loss record of 32-0.

I cannot put into words the tremendous pride that the citizens of Edison, 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 head coach, Marcus Shaw, and his 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 Class A State Championship title.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 2018-2019 AAAA Boys Basketball Georgia State Champions, the George Washington Carver High School Tigers of Columbus, Georgia. The team commemorated this significant milestone on Sunday, March 17, 2019, with a celebratory parade followed by a celebration of honor at the Columbus Civic Center.

On Friday, March 8, 2019, the Tigers won the state championship game against Americus-Sumter High School by a score of 58-55. This was the fifth game of the season against the Americus-Sumter Panthers and it was an exciting end to their series. The Tigers took the lead for a second and final time in the game with 28 seconds left. This historic victory marked the first championship for the Tigers since 1971.

Their victory in this year's AAAA state championship follows years of frustration, hard work, and determination bursting forth into an unbelievable season of teamwork and athletic excellence. The perseverance of these Tigers, after placing No. 3 in the MaxPreps AAAA Boys Basketball rankings for Region 1, was clearly shown by a spectacular season.

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 head coach, Warren Beaulah and his 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.

Madam Speaker, it is my great honor to extend a heartfelt congratulations to the American Peanut Shellers Association (APSA) as it celebrates 100 years in leading the effort to expand and advance the American peanut industry. The APSA will be celebrating this great milestone on Friday, April 5, 2019, during the Industry Spring Conference at the Bindery at Oakland Library in Leesburg, Georgia.

The APSA was established by commercial peanut shellers and crushers from Georgia, Alabama, and Florida who began operations in early 1918 as the Southeastern Peanut Association (SPA). Approximately a year later, on April 5, 1919, a group of commercial peanut farmers representing their home states convened in Atlanta to officially charter the Southeastern Peanut Association. On November 30, 1993, the Southeastern Peanut Association officially changed its name to the American Peanut Shellers Association to incorporate other shelling companies from other states. The current APSA headquarters in Albany, Georgia was completed in 1986 and has been the official hub of this renowned association since it's relocation from Americus, Georgia in the early in 1960s.

For the past 100 years, Georgia peanut farmers through the APSA have been successful in improving the profitability of peanuts and peanut products by working to promote and increase consumption. In 1965, the APSA co-sponsored first USA Peanut Congress--the largest meeting of all segments of the peanut industry. Today, the APSA is the oldest organized group in the peanut industry boasting 10 active member shelling companies and 145 associate members who handle 90 percent of the peanuts grown in the United States.

I take much pride in the fact that Georgia leads the nation in production of peanuts with nearly 50 percent of the annual peanut crop. Georgia has 14,000 farms with peanuts and about 4,500 active farmers. Approximately 200 businesses in Georgia are peanut-related. Two million bags of peanuts are distributed annually and the industry contributes more than 50,000 jobs and an estimated $2 billion to the economy of the state of Georgia.

Since George Washington Carver discovered the many uses for the peanut in the early twentieth century, peanuts have become a household food staple and a source of dietary fiber, protein, and other healthy nutrients. Although peanuts are produced in other parts of the country, I am a firm believer that no peanuts are of higher quality or more delicious than Georgia peanuts.

On a personal note, I would like to thank John Powell, Executive Director of the American Peanut Shellers Association, and the rest of the wonderful staff as well as Chairman Ralph Johnson and all those who serve on the Associate Board of Directors. Their hard work and dedication have contributed to the success of the APSA in many ways.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the residents of Georgia's Second Congressional District, the state of Georgia, and all those nationwide and worldwide who enjoy our tasty American peanuts, I ask my colleagues to join me today in paying tribute to the American Peanut Shellers Association for their exemplary services and dedicated efforts to support our Nation's peanut industry over the past 100 years.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a distinguished and staunch advocate for our nation's military, and dear friend of longstanding, Mr. W. Parker Greene, Sr. Sadly, Mr. Greene passed away on Tuesday, December 18, 2018, at the age of 86. He leaves behind an impeccable legacy of service that will never be forgotten. A memorial service will be held for Mr. Greene at Moody Air Force Base on Thursday, March 14, 2019, at 10 a.m.

Woodbridge Parker Greene, Sr. was born on December 3, 1932, to the union of the late Woodbridge and Mildred Parker Greene in Thomaston, Georgia. A product of the Upson County Public School System, he graduated from Robert E. Lee High School in 1951 and went on to attend the Georgia Institute of Technology. He later served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955. During that time, he was assigned to the Safety Education Division of the Georgia Department of Public Safety

where he made safety presentations to schools and civic groups. He was also part of President Eisenhower's Georgia security detail. After honorably serving his country, Mr. Greene continued his studies at the University of Georgia, majoring in Business Administration, and at Northwestern University, where he attended business seminars. He spent the next 29 years of his career as a regional manager for Rhodes Furniture Company.

Mr. Greene's dedication to the military continued after his retirement. He was the first Squadron Commander of the ``White Knuckle'' Squadron, a unit formed by local civic leaders who have received orientation flights in Moody Air Force Base (AFB) aircraft. In 1991, he helped establish the Moody Support Group, which was instrumental in strengthening the relationships between the local community and the Air Force. As the Executive Director of the group, he helped protect Moody AFB from closure. In 2000, he was appointed to the Georgia Military Affairs Committee by then Governor Roy Barnes.

In conjunction with his professional accomplishments, Mr. Greene was heavily involved in his community, serving as the Chairman (1972-85) of the Military Affairs Committee and Vice President (1978-79) of the Valdosta/Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce; on the Board of Directors for the Valdosta State College/University Foundation; and as an active member of the ACC Commander's Air Power Support Group, the National Civic Leader Group for the U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff, Rotary International, the Kiwanis Clubs of America, the Boy Scouts of America, the Young Men's Christian Association, the Moody AFB Red Carpet Committee, the University of Georgia Gridiron Society, and the Sigma Alpha Epsilon Alumnae organization. In addition to his extensive community involvement, he was also a faithful member of the First United Methodist Church in Valdosta, where he once served on the Administrative Board.

Mr. Greene received several prestigious awards for his dedicated civic service, including the Distinguished Citizen award from the Alapaha Area Boy Scout Council (2000); the first-ever Chief of Staff of the Air Force Award for Exceptional Public Service (2007); and the Air Force Distinguished Public Service Award (2009), the highest honor the Air Force can bestow upon a civilian. Additionally, a portion of Bemiss Road from Valdosta to Moody AFB (W. Parker Greene Highway, 2005) and Moody AFB's headquarters (W. Parker Greene Base Support Center, 2007) were named in his honor.

Mr. Greene achieved much in his life, but none of it would have been possible without the love and support of his loving wife, Lucy; his children, Sharon and Woodbridge Jr.; and a host of family and friends who will miss him deeply.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, ``Life's most persistent and urgent question is, `What are you doing for others?' '' Mr. Greene undoubtedly lived by this philosophy. From his extensive work with the development of Moody AFB to his efforts to provide a bridge between the military and civilians, his work made a tremendous impact on the lives of many.

On a personal note, I was privileged to work with Parker for over 26 years in behalf of Moody AFB and have not encountered a more committed citizen to his community and Nation.

Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join my wife, Vivian, and me, along with the more than 730,000 people in Georgia's Second Congressional District in paying tribute to Mr. W. Parker Greene, Sr. for a life well lived and in extending our deepest sympathies to his family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time 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 recognize the 2018-2019 AAAAA Football Georgia State Champions, the Bainbridge High School Bearcats of Bainbridge, Georgia. The team will be celebrating this significant milestone with a celebration on Monday, March 18, 2019, at Centennial Field in Bainbridge, Georgia.

On Tuesday, December 11, 2018, the Bearcats won the state championship game against the Warner Robins Demons (47-41) in triple overtime. This historic victory marked the second state football title in Bearcat history and the first since 1982. The team has played both their lowest-scoring and highest-scoring games of the season against the Demons, scoring zero points in October of 2018 and 47 points at the state championship game in December.

Their victory in this year's AAAAA state championship embodied decades of frustration, hard work, and determination bursting forth into an unbelievable season of athletic excellence and teamwork. The Bainbridge Bearcats is the first team in Georgia since 1992 to go from a .500 winning percentage or below to state champions. The team traveled over 1,853 miles and went on to defeat five consecutive top ten opponents for the first time in school history, won four consecutive state playoff road wins for the first time in the school's history, and finished with a 10+ win season for only the 6th time in school history.

The Bainbridge Bearcats finished their season with a seven-game winning streak, five of which were on the road. The team also set school records for interceptions returned for touchdowns, sacks, and blocked kicks and punts. Additionally, the team's seniors completed their high school career with an astonishing 36-16 record, the best for any senior class in school history.

I cannot put into words the amount of pride that the citizens of Bainbridge, and indeed in the entire Second Congressional District, has in being able to call this outstanding team of athletes its own. They have accomplished an incredible feat, one that could not have been possible without the tireless leadership and encouragement from their head coach, Jeff Littleton and his staff, as well as their families, classmates, and members of the community who believed in 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 constituents of Georgia's Second Congressional District in recognizing these hardworking young men who have persevered, made sacrifices, and developed the character that will help them to succeed in other aspects of life, and in congratulating them on their historic achievement.

Madam Speaker, it is with a heavy heart and solemn remembrance that I pay tribute to a great man, outstanding public servant, and dear friend of longstanding, Mr. James Austin Jenkins, Jr. Mr. Jenkins passed away on Thursday, February 21, 2019. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 2, 2019, at 12:00 p.m. at Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church in Burkville, Alabama.

James Austin Jenkins, Jr. was born on December 28, 1937, to the late James Austin Jenkins, Sr. and Octavia McCray Jenkins. A product of the Lowndes County, Alabama Public School System, he graduated from Lowndes County Training School before attending Alabama State University, where he received his bachelor's degree in Political Science.

James built quite an impressive career as a public servant in our nation's federal government which was demonstrated through his dedicated services to the National Park Service, as a Ranger stationed in the Washington Monument and as a Horse Mounted Ranger at Prince William Forest Park in Virginia, as well as in Federal Government Law Enforcement, and finally as a National Zoological Park Police Officer with The Smithsonian Institution.

George Washington Carver once said, ``No individual has any right to come into the world and go out of it without leaving behind distinct and legitimate reasons for having passed through it.'' We are all so blessed that Mr. James Austin Jenkins, Jr. passed this way during his life's journey. As a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., his exuberant personality captured the attention of all those he encountered and made him the life of the party wherever he went. He will be remembered for his welcoming spirit and love for his fraternity, his friends, and above all else, his family. He leaves behind a great legacy in public service to and warm cherished memories in the lives of those who knew him.

While he was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Aaron, Frederick, and Elliot; he is survived by his children, Karen, Earl, Bianca, Alicia, and Nathan; and a host of family and friends who will miss him dearly.

On a personal note, James and I both understood the importance of addressing the important issues facing our nation's Veterans and would discuss these issues at the Veterans Brain Trust during the Congressional Black Caucus' Annual Legislative Conference, which he attended regularly.

Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me, along with my wife, Vivian; and the more than 730,000 residents of Georgia's Second Congressional District in paying tribute to Mr. James Austin Jenkins, Jr. for his service to our country. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time of bereavement and pray that they will be comforted by an abiding faith and the Holy Spirit in the days, weeks, and months ahead.