Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, today, I stand to honor the life of Daniel Frederic Packer, Jr., who was born December 8, 1947, in Mobile, Alabama and peacefully transitioned to be with the Lord surrounded by his wife, children and grandchildren on January 31, 2024. Dan was preceded in death by his parents, Daniel F. Packer, Sr., and Algie Ervin Packer; his sister, Debra Packer Albright; and his first wife, Carlene Banks Packer. He is survived by his loving wife, Catherine August Packer, and devoted children, Timothy Packer (Nicole), Vanice Packer Zenon (Alfred), Randall Ross (Natasha), Dr. Reginald Ross (Leslie), and Maria Michelle Ross Burke. He was the loving grandfather of nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Dan learned the value of hard work at an early age. Dan was raised in a hard-working household along with his younger sister, Debra. During the summer, he joined his cousins on a family farm where he did everything from churning butter to grinding corn. ``Work was never something we were afraid of,'' Packer told New Orleans City Business. Packer inherited a strong sense of self and a strong work ethic from his parents. Like most of the South during Packer's childhood, Alabama was segregated, but his mother's motto was, ``Don't let anything defeat you,'' Packer recalled to Black Collegian. His father also imparted words of wisdom that resonated with Packer. ``Some days peanuts, some days shells,'' Packer recalled to the Times-Picayune. The result was a can-do attitude that helped Packer overcome the inequities of segregation and racism. ``The fact that (the South) was a segregated place didn't mean we couldn't find a way to be successful,'' Packer told New Orleans City Business. ``It never dawned on us to use (our race) as an excuse to not be successful.''

Packer graduated from Mobile's Central High School in 1965 with high enough grades to land several college scholarships. Unfortunately, Tuskegee Institute--the school Packer had his heart set on--was not among them. Tuskegee, a historically black college, was one of the few in the South that offered an engineering program for African Americans. Packer scraped enough money for tuition and enrolled in the five-year engineering program. After three years, his father fell ill, and the money ran out. In 1969, Packer left Tuskegee and joined the United States Navy. His high entrance marks and engineering training helped land him a position in the Navy's nuclear power program. During an intense one-year course at a secret base in Idaho, Packer learned to operate nuclear reactors used to power submarines, aircraft carriers, and destroyers. After training, he was posted on the USS Truxton, a missile destroyer based in the South China Sea during the Vietnam War.

During his military training, Packer met his first wife, Carlene Banks. After he left the Navy in 1975, the pair moved briefly to Washington state, where their first son, Timothy, was born. The family moved to Connecticut, where Packer landed a job as a training coordinator with Connecticut Yankee Atomic Power Company. Packer's second child, Vanice, was born soon after. The birth happened quite suddenly, and Packer delivered the baby at home. ``It wasn't a problem because I knew how to operate a nuclear reactor,'' he told New Orleans City Business. ``Both are very procedure oriented.'' Packer juggled his job and fatherhood well enough to earn an associate degree in 1978 from Middlesex Community College and a bachelor's degree in business from Charter Oak College in 1980.

Tragedy struck Packer's life in 1980 when his wife Carlene died suddenly of a rare liver disease. Left alone to care for his two children, Packer decided it was time to move back home to the South. The closest he got, however, was Columbia, Maryland, where he landed a job as a senior engineer at General Physics Corporation. It was a good job, but he wanted to be closer to the family with two young children. With his background in nuclear power, including a senior operator's license--a highly specialized license for the nuclear industry--he looked for a power plant near Mobile, Alabama. The closest was Entergy's plant in Taft, Louisiana. He called the plant, and though there were no openings, his credentials made him a great candidate as a consultant. He joined the plant as a consultant in 1982 and helped Entergy build the Waterford III plant. His expertise landed him a position as training manager of the plant.

Dan met Catherine upon his arrival at Waterford, and they later married on July 22, 1983, recently celebrating 40 years of marriage. It was ``love at first sight'' when their

blended families met. By 1990, Packer had moved up the ranks at Waterford to become the plant's general manager. His promotion made him the first African American to manage a nuclear power plant. He was responsible for the entire operation of the site, from nuclear safety to profitability. It was a massive job, performed under the shadow of the immense environmental damage that could happen if an accident occurred. Dan believed there was nothing more complicated than being the plant manager of a nuclear power plant. Under Packer, the Waterford plant received some of the highest ratings in the country.

After 27 years in the nuclear industry on the technical side, Packer made the move to the executive offices. In 1996, he became a director of Entergy New Orleans. In that role, his main task was dealing with local government regulators. ``He moved into a very political environment when he moved downtown,'' another Entergy executive told the Times-Picayune. ``It was an interesting move. The stereotype of technical people is that they don't mix well in the political area, but he did an excellent job of understanding politics.'' Packer landed in New Orleans in the middle of a simmering pot of discontent. Since the early 1980s, New Orleans and Entergy had been brewing trouble. Rising energy costs, poor customer service, and over-billing charges plagued the company. In addition, the city of New Orleans and Entergy had engaged in a legal battle that went up to the federal level over the shared costs of building a Gulf Coast nuclear facility. Packer impressed those on both sides of the debate by using an approach that has become a hallmark of his leadership--diplomatically building bridges between opposing parties. ``At the beginning, he was a quiet guy. He had been in nuclear before that, but obviously, he was a quick learner,'' a city council member told the Times-Picayune. ``I think he learned early on that the way to get things done was to develop a relationship with the council and consumers, and I think he did a pretty good job of that.'' Entergy Corporation's CEO Wayne Leonard was also impressed. ``[Packer] never came to me once and said: `This was unfair; I shouldn't have been held accountable,' '' Leonard told the Times-Picayune. ``The bottom line was that he was an adult. A lot of times, you look around, and you see a lot of talented people, but you don't see a lot of grown-ups.'' The result was that Packer was appointed president of Entergy New Orleans in 1997. The CEO title was added in 1998. As CEO, Packer is responsible for all aspects of the company: power distribution, customer service, economic development, financial performance, and regulatory and governmental affairs.

As CEO, Packer continued to impress people within and outside the industry. In 2001, gas prices surged, leaving many New Orleanians struggling to meet payments. Packer announced that Entergy would not cut off power for non-payment. ``It may sound like it was a natural thing to do, but, from a business standpoint, it was an extraordinary move,'' an Entergy executive told New Orleans City Business. ``Dan's decision was, for some people, the difference between waking up in the dark and being able to turn the lights on. That was a defining moment in my professional relationship with him. In business school, you learn to make sure you can earn and collect on any amount. What you don't learn in school are the leadership traits it takes to make a tough decision.'' Packer's most challenging job arrived on August 29, 2005, in the form of Hurricane Katrina. The storm flooded half of the utility's substations and two power plants. Nearly 100 percent of its clients were left without power. In September, Entergy New Orleans filed for bankruptcy protection. By the end of the year, almost 70 percent of Entergy New Orleans's client base was gone, and large swaths of the region were still without power. History has watched to see whether Packer's renowned strategic skills and unflappable attitude could save his company and restore regular services to its clients. He proved successful and retired from Entergy year-end, 2006. Though retirement was never in his plans, Dan continued his skills as President and CEO of Urban Solutions Inc., a multi-faceted firm involved with projects associated with an urban environment.

Key appointments and memberships included the American Association of Blacks in Energy, president emeritus; NFL Stadium Advisory Commission, chairman, 2001; New Orleans Regional Chamber of Commerce, chairman, 2001; New Orleans Aviation Board, chairman, 2002; Bring New Orleans Back Commission, member; Prince Hall Free and Accepted Masons Acacia Lodge No. 248 and Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Alpha Alpha Boule (New Orleans Chapter). Notable awards include YMCA, Black Achievement Award, 1988; Tulane University, Weiss Award, 2001; Boy Scouts of America, Southeast Louisiana Council, Whitney Young Service Award, 2004; and King of the Mobile Mardi Gras.

The Man, the Legacy, will never be forgotten. He touched so many in every facet of his life, fulfilling opportunities and dreams throughout his career. I am honored to say he was my dear friend and mentor. Rest well friend. His legacy will live on forever.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to pay tribute to The Lighthouse Community Hospice, and its founder Jocelyn Campbell as they host their Annual ``Covered in Love'' Gala.

Ms. Campbell has devoted over 20 years to end-of-life care, working as an advocate for the preservation of dignity and compassion for those approaching the end of their lives. In her role as the Chief Executive Officer of The Lighthouse Community Hospice, Ms. Campbell serves as a pioneer in advocating for quality end-of-life care. She oversees a dedicated and hardworking group of healthcare professionals and takes part in strategic partnership and planning in order to ensure that their programs reach their maximum potential. In 2023, the Lighthouse Community Hospice served as a signature community resource at the 52nd Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Annual Legislative Caucus in our nation's capital. In addition to her role as CEO of the Lighthouse Community Hospice, Campbell simultaneously serves as the CEO of Health Comply AI. Through her work at Health Comply AI, she is able to balance her expertise in cutting-edge artificial intelligence technologies with her passion for high standard health care delivery, in developing AI- driven solutions for administering healthcare services and organizations.

The Lighthouse Community Hospice helps to alleviate the difficult, emotional experience that is caring for a loved one who is near death. They adopt a dedicated and compassionate approach to the work that they do, helping each family to develop a plan that centers around preserving the dignity and wishes of the individual approaching eternal rest.

I am humbled to acknowledge The Lighthouse Community Hospice and Ms. Jocelyn Campbell in their global caregiver advocacy movement for end- of-life initiatives. The tireless, dedicated, and consistent work that they do continue to profoundly impact the ways in which end-of-life care is approached and administered both within our community and beyond.

Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to honor the life of Keith E. Weatherspoon. He was born on December 13, 1949, in New Orleans, part of Louisiana's 2nd Congressional District, to Catherine Adauf Weatherspoon and Leslie E. Weatherspoon.

Keith was raised by his maternal grandparents in Robbins, Illinois, and attended Eisenhower High School in Chicago. Eventually, he moved back to New Orleans, graduating from Walter L. Cohen Senior High School. Mr. Weatherspoon remained in New Orleans through college, attending Xavier University of Louisiana, and later receiving a master's degree from Tulane University. Keith was also a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., to which he was initiated in the Fairfax/Alexandria Chapter in 1983 .

In his professional life, Keith Weatherspoon was involved in pharmaceutical sales, and later stockbroking. During his transition into the world of stockbroking, he paused this work to serve as Special Assistant to then, United States President Ronald Reagan. Upon his return to investment banking, he was able to establish housing finance agencies to provide mortgages to low-income families for municipalities and states.

Keith later served as Senior Vice President at Donaldson, Lufkin, & Jenrette, a major investment banking firm, through which he handled bond issues across the nation. His work in this role was monumental for Louisiana public schools, which were able to remain open in April 1988 thanks to Keith's facilitating a Louisiana bond refunding issue of $1.2 billion. Mr. Weatherspoon also held innumerable leadership positions, such as Director of Business Development at Airware LLC and Managing Partner of Sterling--Weatherspoon. He had over 40 years of real estate experience, most recently at Berkshire Hathaway Home Services, and worked tirelessly on developing the Electric Vehicle charging industry.

Keith was committed to serving as a positive force for good, through uplifting others and remained committed to the city of New Orleans. Here, he served on the Board of City Trusts and counseled public officials on economic and municipal issues. He was devoted to the Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club, as a lifetime member and 1990's King Zulu. Keith was also a founding member of the Good Providers Fishing Club.

Mr. Weatherspoon met the love of his life, Debra Sterling Weatherspoon, in 2005, and was able to create beautiful memories by her side. They spent their time traveling and watching their beloved New Orleans Saints football games, alongside their cherished friends from their time at university. Most of all, they spent their time smiling and laughing alongside one another. Keith and Debra were members of the Franklin Avenue Baptist Church in New Orleans, and, after Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans, the couple relocated to Texas, where they became members of the Metropolitan Church in Houston, Texas. Though residing in Houston, they celebrated every holiday and milestone in New Orleans.

Keith is survived by his devoted wife, Debra Sterling Weatherspoon, and one daughter, Ashley Marie Weatherspoon from his late ex-wife Marie Slade Weatherspoon. Keith also leaves to cherish his memories, three sisters, Cosette Weatherspoon West Kaufman (Julius), Giselle Weatherspoon Williams, and Nadja Weatherspoon Carr (Dennis); Sister-in laws, Yvonne Sterling, Verdell Sterling Carter, and Brother-in-law Howard A. Sterling; Godchildren, Kristal Terrel, Nikki Carter-Williams, Rodrick Davis, and Myran Ifford; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lester Earl Weatherspoon, and Catherine Adauf Weatherspoon, Maternal grandparents, Albert S. Adauf (Adolph), Mary Dixon Adolph (step-grandmother), Elizabeth Ovide Adauf and his Aunt Irene Adauf Williams.

Mr. Weatherspoon was a staunch believer in ``if you want something in life, you must work hard for it''. This is evident through the work that he put into every facet of his life, from his devotion to his loving family and friends to the innumerable number of commitments to which he dedicated himself. His legacy should serve as an inspiration to all. I will forever cherish the many conversations I shared over the years with my fraternity brother and confidant. His impact will be forever engraved in the lives he touched along the way. I am proud to say, I am a benefactor of his knowledge. Rest well, my brother.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to celebrate Mr. James ``Jim'' Raby, who has devoted his life to serving his community, and to celebrate Walter L. Cohen High School, for their choice to honor him with the dedication of the Gymnasium Naming Ceremony. Mr. Raby, though born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was raised from the age of 9 months in my home, New Orleans, Louisiana. Mr. Raby attended New Orleans public schools, James Weldon Elementary School, and Walter L. Cohen Senior High School. Jim and his high school sweetheart, Nola, were part of the third graduating class of Walter L. Cohen High School in 1955 and have been married for 63 years.

Upon graduating from Walter L. Cohen High School, Mr. Raby matriculated at Southern University in Baton Rouge, where he earned a BS in Mathematics. Jim went on to earn a master's in education, and a certification in Adult Education. During his time at Southern, he became involved in the Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) Program and, after graduating in 1959, received a Commission as an Army Second Lieutenant. In September of 1963, after serving 4 years on active military duty, during which he was often the only African American commissioned officer, Mr. Raby was honorably discharged with the rank of Captain.

After his discharge from the military, Jim began worked at the Philip Morris Tobacco company, a company for which he was the only African American sales representative in Louisiana. In November 1967, he resigned from his position at Philip Morris Tobacco company, and became the first African American to serve as a Field Underwriter for New York Life Insurance Company in the New Orleans General Office.

Once he retired from this position in 1994, Mr. Raby began working for the Orleans Parish School Board as the Program Coordinator for Project Independence. In August 2009, Jim was elected President of the Board of Directors of the Walter L. Cohen Alumni Association, through which he spearheaded efforts to rebuild Walter L. Cohen High School on its original site.

Mr. Raby's dedication to the different communities of which he is a part is evident throughout his story. He has not only contributed immensely to his Alma Mater, Walter L. Cohen High School, but also to our state, and to our nation. I commend Walter L. Cohen High School for dedicating the Gymnasium Naming Ceremony in honor of Mr. Jim Raby, and I am proud to acknowledge Mr. Raby for his dedication to serving others, both locally and beyond.

Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to honor the life of Norman Raymond Smith, Executive Director of Harmony House Senior Center, the Treme Community Education Program, an agency of the New Orleans Council on Aging. He was the son of the late Yvonne and Matthew Smith, Sr., born on November 17, 1944, in New Orleans, Louisiana, in the Historic Treme Community, located in the district I represent. Mr. Smith passed away on Sunday, January 14, 2024.

Mr. Smith and his family, Roman Catholics, attended St. Peter Claver Catholic Church. The Mass was conducted in Latin which Smith could not understand, but he enjoyed the Gregorian chants and the singing of standard Black Catholic Church Hymns. He sometimes visited other churches with friends, which had very powerful Treme voices accompanied by piano and sometimes guitar or drums. In his adult life, Norman joined Saint Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, where he served as an Usher.

As a youth living in the Historic Treme, he attended Joseph A. Craig Elementary School, graduated from Joseph S. Clark Senior High School, and received his associate degree in Mortuary Science from the Commonwealth College of Science in Houston, Texas, becoming a licensed Mortician.

As a child, some of the first stories Smith heard were of family members from generations past. He knew that his father had been in the military, along with his grandfather and great-grandfather. In fact, his mother's great-grandfather had served in the War of 1812, and her great-uncle had fought in the 9th Cavalry Heavy Artillery in the Civil War. Their stories fascinated Norman. Soon after finishing his training, he was drafted into the Army where he was to serve as a telephone technician, arriving in Vietnam and transferred to work as an identification specialist, and later he was tasked with preparing fallen heroes for return home to their families. After Smith returned from Vietnam, he worked as a funeral escort stationed at Oakland Army Base. His military service included serving as a United States Army Sergeant, Quarter Master Corporal, and was a Purple Heart Recipient, though never receiving his Medal of Honor. He was honorably discharged in 1969. He was also a member of the Veterans of Foreign War, following his service in the Vietnam War, a member of the American Legion Post 500, and the Disabled American Veterans, Chapter 15.

He returned to New Orleans and began working at Charbonnet-Labat Funeral Home, also working at several other funeral homes in the city. His passion to see his community uplifted led to his ultimate involvement in community politics. His life as a community activist started to take shape. He attended the inaugural class at the Institute of Politics at Loyola University. Norman also served as a delegate to the Democratic National Convention, electing President Jimmy Carter. Norman was instrumental in helping to elect countless men and women to state, local, and national offices.

Education was always very important to Norman, so at the age of 50, he returned to Southern University at New Orleans and earned a Bachelor of Arts, BA in History. Norman worked as an Education Specialist at the State Department of Education under Superintendent Kelly Nix, serving Veterans across the State of Louisiana. His departure from the Department of Education led him to follow his dream of creating calendars like the one he read as a child at Joseph A. Craig School, Norman Rockwell. He began what would eventually add up to nine years of research on historical Black figures from Louisiana under the title ``Etches of Ebony Louisiana'', dedicating the rest of his life to researching and educating his community in the contributions of Black people born in Louisiana. In 1983 he published his first calendar.

An active resident of New Orleans until his passing, Norman was a renowned Culture Bearer, Treme's Drummer, Photographer, member of Joseph S. Clark Alumni Association, Knights of Peter Claver Tommy Lafon Chapter 214, Loyola Institute of Politics, Amistad Research Center, Southern University New Orleans Alumni Association, Officer/Member, New Orleans Embalmers Association, Crescent City Funeral Directors and Morticians Association, Louisiana Funeral Directors and Morticians Association, Louisiana Black History Historian, Political Strategist and President of Treme Improvement Political Society (T.I.P.S.), and past member of the Upper Pontabla Board of Directors. He was also the Author and Publisher of ``Footprints of Black Louisiana''.

Norman was the proud father of two sons, Corey Norman Smith (Heather) and Christopher Jude Smith, born from his marriage to Joyce Singleton Smith. He was the loving grandfather of Sterling and Sydnei Smith, and Taylor Hampton; great-grandfather of Ava Rose and Dallon Steen, Jr., his sister Emelda Petit. Norman is preceded in death by siblings Emma Smith Brown, Matthew Smith, Jr., Anthony Smith, Verdelle Smith Johnson, Isabelle Smith, and Paulette Smith Pate.

He was one of those children who knew what he wanted to do at a young age. He wanted to be a historian. Specifically, he wanted to record and preserve Black history. As early as the fifth grade, Smith had the idea to make calendars that would bring to life the stories of Black historical figures. His goal was to share the many contributions Black people had made to American society, especially some who might be lesser known. ``The point was to do something positive,'' he explained. ``So little Black kids like me could have something to look forward to. To look up to.'' He successfully fulfilled his dream.

His impact on Greater New Orleans, especially the Treme Community will forever remain engraved in the lives he touched along the way. Rest well, my brother.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Fred Joseph Johnson, Jr., on the occasion of his recognition as a 2024 Southern University at New Orleans Center for African and African American Studies Living Legend. Mr. Johnson is receiving this high honor because of his dedicated service to the citizens of New Orleans.

For over 30 years, Mr. Johnson has dedicated his life to counseling families and individuals in the process of becoming and maintaining the rights, responsibilities, and privileges of homeownership. In 1993, Mr Johnson served as a co-founder of The Black Men of Labor Parade Club. BMOL focus is on preserving the history and culture of traditional jazz music, which is passed on from generation to generation, seeking to preserve traditional New Orleans Jazz by hiring musicians that play New Orleans Jazz Music as it was performed by such great Brass Bands as the Olympia, the Onward, the Tuxedo and the Eureka.

Fred J. Johnson, Jr. is known best as a community and cultural activist who focuses on creating social change. He has been employed with the Neighborhood Development Foundation since its inception in 1986 and was appointed as Chief Executive Officer in 2009. He remains committed to directly serving the needs of clients in asset building through the homeownership process. As a counselor and advocate for homeownership who has a no-nonsense delivery of the message, he is often asked to deliver that message by participating in numerous community lectures, forums, and television and radio talk show appearances.

As a counselor, Mr. Johnson provides housing and financial counseling to individuals and families seeking to build their assets through the purchase of property. He assists clients in the development of action plans to build their assets and resolve credit issues and advocating for clients throughout the entire home purchase process. Moreover, Mr. Johnson provides educational services to non-profit organizations and businesses around the country to enable them to provide those same services to their communities. As a housing advocate, Mr. Johnson participates in several housing organizations that shape housing policies and the industry that is responsible for its governance. He is presently the President of the Louisiana Housing Education Collaborative and a Board Member of the Greater New Orleans Housing Alliance.

I am humbled to know and call him a personal friend. Fred is such a great man who has done so much to improve the lives of countless residents across my district. We are so honored to have Mr. Johnson, a true advocate for mankind.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the forty-four years of Pastoral excellence of Reverend Doctor Norman Nathan Francis. Reverend Doctor Norman Nathan Francis was born to the union of the late Norman Francis and the late Eartha Singleton Cambrice on January 9, 1954, in New Orleans, Louisiana. He is the oldest of twelve siblings.

He is a product of the Jefferson Parish School System. He attended McDonogh No. 27 Elementary School and is a 1971 West Jefferson Senior High School graduate. Reverend Francis accepted Christ in his life in 1974 and was baptized at the St. Stephen Missionary Baptist Church by the late Reverend Doctor Arthur Monday, Jr. He acknowledged his call to preach the gospel of Christ and was licensed to preach on December 19, 1975. He received his Bachelor's and Master's Degrees in Theology from the Union Baptist Theological Seminary in New Orleans, Louisiana. He became an ordained minister in April 1980. Following the untimely death of the late Reverend Doctor Arthur Monday, Jr., Reverend Francis was elected pastor by a unanimous vote of the church's congregation. He was installed as the church's third pastor on June 20, 1980, under the auspices of the Westside Missionary Baptist Association.

The church has a functioning youth ministry, a weekly prayer service, and Bible Study. He has implemented the following ministries: New Members, Evangelistic, Senior Citizens, Prison, Drug Prevention, Transportation, and many other ministries and committees. Pastor Francis encourages the entire membership to participate in all church functions. He believes there is a place for everyone who wishes to contribute to the work of the Almighty Father. He has officiated hundreds of baptisms, Christenings, funerals, and weddings.

Pastor Francis is a member of the Free and Accepted Prince Hall Masonic Lodge No. 102 and a Third Degree Mason, a member of the Louisiana State Missionary Baptist Convention and the National Baptist Convention, LSA Incorporated. He is the First Vice-President of the West New Orleans Missionary Baptist Education Association. He is the Senior Advisor to the Westside Missionary Baptist Association President--Reverend Doctor Orin D. Grant, Sr.

Pastor Francis received numerous accolades from Civic organizations; he was the first recipient of the Global Citizen Award, a Pastor of the Month Recipient, and a Civilians' Clergy Honoree. He was awarded his Honorary Doctorate Degree in Theology from Christian Bible College on April 3, 2011, the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity's 2016 Citizen of the Year Award and the 2020 Union Baptist College and Theological Seminary Distinguished Alumni Citizen Award. He is listed in Who's Who Among American Ministers' Registry and many other organizations for his dedicated spirit, but he knows his real reward is in heaven.

Pastor Francis is the loving and devoted husband of First Lady Nedra Washington Francis. He is the proud and caring father of Nathaniel, Chiquita, and Imani Francis, and Willie Moore, Jr.

Mr. Speaker, today, I stand to honor the life of an exceptional New Orleans Serviceman, United States Marine Corporal Amos E. Pierce, Jr., who was

born on January 23, 1925, in New Orleans, LA, and peacefully passed away on November 29, 2023.

Amos E. Pierce, Jr., was a proud resident of Pontchartrain Park, now recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, and a devoted member of St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church for over 70 years. Pierce was a distinguished member of the ``Buffalo Soldiers'' during World War II.

Known affectionately as ``Pops'' and ``Uncle Amos,'' he married Althea on July 26, 1952, and they had three sons: Stacey Anthony (deceased), Ron Paul, and Wendell Edward. Amos E. Pierce, Jr. was a dedicated employee of the University of New Orleans for 30 years.

Survived by two of his sons, Ron and Wendell, his four grandchildren, Meghan, Logan, Janelle, and Natalie Pierce, daughter-in-law's Debra Pierce and Erica Young, along with his sister-in-law Maryann Edwards and numerous nieces and nephews, Amos E. Pierce, Jr. was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Althea Lee Edwards Pierce.

His story of bravery in the Battle of Saipan was shared in his son's memoir ``The Wind in the Reeds,'' shedding light on the injustice his father faced upon discharge, where his heroic achievements were unjustly dismissed due to racial prejudice.

The Defense Department realized its mistake and offered Mr. Amos his medals, but he declined. Despite the mistreatment, he didn't teach his sons to harbor resentment against the country.

In 2009, Wendell discovered that his dad had been unjustly denied medals. Working with a local TV reporter and Senator Mary Landrieu's office, they successfully corrected the oversight. Amos Pierce, who had earned six medals, was finally honored in a special ceremony at the World War II Museum in New Orleans in October 2009.

He received his medals, including an Asiatic Pacific Campaign medal with a Bronze Service Star and a World War II Victory medal, during a special Armed Forces Day ceremony at The National WWII Museum in 2009. One of the elder Pierce's last public appearances was at the museum's Patriot Awards Gala last month, where his son received the Distinguished Citizen Award from the Congressional Medal of Honor Society.

``He was a man of great resilience, a little boy who grew up in Gert Town, born at a time when everyone and everything around him said his humanity meant nothing, showed that he was something.''

Drafted at the outset of World War II, he graduated from Gaudet High School after returning from the war and studied at Southern University and Agricultural & Mechanical College before moving to New York City to study photography.

He is affectionately described as a man of great fortitude who switched gears and became a maintenance man. He changed his profession and found a way to work and support his family, he wasn't overwhelmed by the change. He just adjusted, as men of purpose do.

Southern University held an exhibit of Amos Pierce's photographs, which were lost in August 2005 when Hurricane Katrina's floodwaters destroyed the family's home in Pontchartrain Park, a Gentilly subdivision established in the mid-1950s when segregation was still official policy, to give African Americans the opportunity of home ownership. The Pierces were among the first Pontchartrain Park residents.

The Pontchartrain Park Community Development Corp., started to buy back homes in the subdivision that had been sold to the government. In 2012, slightly more than five years after moving back into Pontchartrain Park, Amos Pierce's wife, Althea Pierce, died. Amos Pierce kept going.

He was a parishioner of St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, where he was a member of the Knights of Peter Claver. He was praised for giving ``the most precious things ever: love and time.''

The Greater New Orleans Community has lost an incredible gem. I am proud to have connected with him during my time as a Member of Congress, appreciating the guidance and support he provided. I'll always carry his direction as I serve the constituents of the 2nd Congressional District of Louisiana. May he rest in peace forever.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of Amos E. Pierce, Jr., a World War

II hero and father of my dear friend and acclaimed actor, Wendell Pierce. His life, spanning 98 years, was a testament to resilience, courage, and the pursuit of justice.

Amos served as an Army corporal with the 24th Infantry Regiment during the battle of Saipan in 1944. Though he faced racial discrimination, his commitment to country and values remained unwavering. Despite losing his home to Hurricane Katrina in 2005, Amos and his family triumphed over diversity.

Wendell Pierce's dedication and courage to rebuilding Pontchartrain Park and founding Pontchartrain Park Community Development Corporation was a testament to the leadership he learned at an early age from his father and reflects the family commitment to legacy and community.

Amos' enduring spirit, active involvement in church, and unwavering support for his son's artistic pursuit, define a life rich in love and a profound sense of purpose.

As a World War II veteran, father, and community pillar, Amos leaves behind an enduring legacy.

To my friends, Wendell and Ron, your father was an inspiration to me and so many others.

Our prayers are with you and your entire family. May he rest in peace. God bless you all.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate an extraordinary talent and force in the world of college football, LSU's Jayden Daniels, the recipient of this year's Heisman Trophy.

Jayden's journey has been remarkable, defined by grit, determination, and a love for the game. Winning the Heisman is not just a personal victory, it is a testament to the countless hours of hard work, sacrifice, and unwavering support of your teammates and coaches.

It truly takes a village.

Jayden's skill on the field has captivated fans, and his leadership has inspired generations of future athletes.

As Jayden holds this coveted trophy, may he know that he has etched his name in football history and Louisiana history. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Jayden on this well-deserved honor. I know it will be a stepping stone to even greater heights.

The City of Love

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the pastoral anniversary of Bishop Lester Love and Pastor Fran Love. Twenty-five years of faithful leadership have shaped The City of Love into a beacon of hope and inspiration.

Bishop Lester Love has shepherded The City of Love with a clear vision. His exemplary leadership has not only guided his congregation but has become a blueprint for leadership excellence in churches and corporations alike.

Alongside him, Prophet Fran Love, a woman of unwavering faith, has demonstrated her commitment to social justice through initiatives like the Daughters of Life and Love, DOLL. I admire her active devotion to uplifting others and serving mankind and womankind.

Together, they have led The City of Love with passion and a commitment to community service. Their outreach organization, LOVE365, has touched thousands of lives.

Beyond the pulpit, Bishop Lester Love and Prophet Fran Love have become pillars of support for the greater New Orleans community. Their influence extends far beyond the walls of The City of Love, reaching into the hearts and lives of those they touch.

As I congratulate this remarkable couple, I also express my gratitude for their friendship and guidance.

May the next chapter of your journey be filled with continued blessings and fulfillment for the mission of love and the people that you serve.

Awarding Congressional Gold Medal to Montford Point Marines

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the valor and resilience of the Montford Point Marines whose invincible spirit has left a permanent mark on our Nation's history.

Eighty years in the making, eight courageous New Orleanians received the Congressional Medal of Honor this November, a long overdue recognition of their pivotal role as the first African Americans to join the Marines.

Their names are:

Private First Class Granville ``Jack'' Alexander, Sr.

First Sergeant Nolan A. Marshall, Sr.

Staff Sergeant Charles E. Allen, Sr.

Corporal George A. Dupre, Sr.

Private First Class, Andrew J. LeBlanc.

Staff Sergeant Melvin O. Parent, Sr.

Sergeant Gilbert Smith, Sr.; and

Private First Class Lloyd B. Wills, Sr.

These heroes who fought to fight for America and made a way from no way, faced adversity head-on and did it with pride and honor.

Barred from the national marines boot camp, they persevered at Montford Point, enduring grueling training and overcoming the stigma that African Americans couldn't serve as marines. They not only served honorably, but they blazed a trail for 20,000 African Americans who followed in their footsteps.

In 1949, Montford Point was decommissioned but their legacy endures. Their sacrifice paved the way for diversity and inclusion in the Marine Corps, and we proudly embrace their history and their service today.

Thank you for your incredible service.

God bless you, and God bless America.

Mr. Chair, I thank Ranking Member Scott for his time and leadership in this matter.

I rise today in opposition to this bill. Monday night, the Rules Committee considered my amendment, amendment No. 16, to H.R. 1147, which would have provided an alternative, a healthy alternative to our young people, people that cannot digest milk.

I heard my colleagues on the other side of the aisle suggest that this was a choice. Well, if there were a choice, then why not add soy as a choice. Soy gives the equivalent of the nutritional values as whole milk, but it does not have the negative impact that whole milk has on a large swath of people in our community.

I will tell you those numbers. Ninety-five percent of Native Americans have lactose intolerance. Ninety percent of African Americans are lactose intolerant. Sixty-five percent of Latino Americans are, in fact, lactose intolerant. Asian Americans, 90 percent. These are real numbers. This is not about taste. This is not about profit. This is not about bottom line. This is not about a powerful lobby. This is about the safety, nutrition, and well-being of our young people.

We cannot ignore the impact that ingesting or attempting to digest things that your body cannot and what impact it has on one's ability to concentrate or do well in the classroom.

My colleagues and I formed a diverse group, represented by chairs of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, the Asian Pacific American Caucus, and a vice chair of the Congressional Black Caucus respectively. We all firmly believe that the full House should be allowed to debate this important measure, making sure that we were given the opportunity on the floor to debate this amendment. I believe if given the opportunity to be heard, even the other side could have and would have been able to support.

What is most perplexing is how this amendment aligns with the purpose of the underlying bill, to expand choice and to deliver healthy beverages to the school counter. Our amendment is based on the text of my bill, H.R. 1619, the ADD SOY Act. It amends the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Program to strike the onerous ``milk note'' requirement and to stipulate that the USDA reimburse school districts to make a plant-based dietary alternative that is nutritionally equivalent to cow's milk available in school. Yes, a choice, a real choice.

When Congress enacted the milk mandate 80 years ago, the United States was less diverse, and we did not understand the exact science surrounding lactose intolerance. Between 70 to 90 percent of African Americans today are lactose intolerant. Ninety percent of Asians, 95 percent of Native Americans, and 65 percent of Latinos are, in fact, lactose intolerant.

The National Institutes of Health reports the majority of all people have reduced ability to digest lactose after infancy, and it adds that it is also very common in people from West Africa, Arab, Jewish, Greek, and Italian descent.

Currently, if a student wants a nutritionally equivalent alternative to milk, they need to get a doctor's note or parent's note to obtain a plant-based beverage. Oftentimes, parents are working two jobs. Oftentimes, unfortunately, parents don't pay as much attention or are as in tune and have an opportunity to get to the school or even have healthcare to go to a doctor to get a note. Should that child still be punished and forced to drink something that their body simply cannot digest?

How do you concentrate in the classroom when you are drinking and attempting to digest something that your body cannot? What happens to that child when they belly up to the desk and have to study or pay attention but their body is telling them that they have eaten something that does not agree with them? It causes a problem. It causes ridicule. It causes the ability or inability to concentrate and perform at their highest level. Because of this high barrier to entry, kids often don't. Many skip school or don't do well in school as an alternative.

If 75 percent of African Americans are lactose intolerant, which is true in my family, why should three-quarters of kids have to get a note. It is not a medical disability to be African American. It is not a medical disability to be Vietnamese American. It is not a disability to be Native American. It is not a disability to be Latino.

Lactose intolerance is genetic. This isn't complicated. Kids should be given

a healthy fluid beverage option that doesn't make them sick. Our amendment would have provided a sensible solution. Allow the USDA to reimburse school districts for soy milk, which so far is the only plant-based milk that has been recognized under the latest formulation of the 2020 American Dietary Guidelines to be healthy and nutritionally equivalent to cow's milk.

Moreover, there is a primary reason that more than half of all milk given to children is thrown into a cafeteria trash can unused, carton after carton after carton of discarded cartons of milk that have never been opened. At some point kids realize it isn't good for them and they don't drink it. Whatever nutritional value you thought you were affording by giving milk doesn't happen if young people can't consume or digest it.

Many kids don't want milk because it makes them sick. According to the USDA, 29 percent of cartons of cow milk served in our schools are thrown into the garbage unopened. This comes out to be somewhere around $300 million in annual waste of taxpayer funds for milk cartons. It is clear that not only is it a food waste issue but a failure on the NSLP to supply food to kids that are consumed and meet their daily nutritional requirement. The present rate of food waste and taxpayer losses is not acceptable.

Mr. Chair, I ask whether my Republican colleagues think it is a good policy. Is that good stewardship of our tax dollars? Is that delivering good health outcomes for all kids?

If they believe it is, then they should agree and recognize that adding a true alternative is a good thing. I remind my colleagues that it is not a medical condition to be Black, Latino, Asian, Jewish, or other ethnicities.

This is an issue of racial equity and inclusion, as well as tightening government spending and waste. It is both a matter of squandering tax dollars and a matter of fairness. The kids who have the least and who have the most difficulty raising their voices are being denied a food staple that they simply cannot stand.

We must fix this. Let us strive to do better for the next generation and equip them with the nutritional sustenance at the lunch counter that can give them an opportunity to not just survive but thrive.

Mr. Chair, I implore you to think about the children. Don't think about the profits. Don't think about the lobby. Don't think about the efforts of a winner or loser. Let's put children first.

Let's make sure that we, as a Congress, recognize the value of fighting for those who have not been given the opportunity to fight for themselves.

Add soy. Create true alternatives. Do not force people to digest things that their bodies simply cannot.

Mr. Chair, it is for this reason and this reason solely that I cannot support this measure without true alternatives.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to the Historic Second Baptist Church as they celebrate their 175th year of serving the Greater New Orleans Community.

In the year 1848, the Second African Baptist Church was originally a group of Negroes who congregated under the guidance of the white members of the Coliseum Place Baptist Church, for the purpose of rendering praise and honor to God in their own modest way. The church was later incorporated, and in 1857 the First Baptist Church of New Orleans turned over Lot 4 (which they purchased in 1852) to four churches, all of which operated at 2525 Melpomene Avenue.

In 1861, Rev. Thomas Miles took over the church. Shortly thereafter, the First African Baptist Church came back and the two operated together until Second Baptist incorporated in 1866. Since that time, this church as an institution has been in continuous existence and has served its congregation without interruption. Even more important than age is the history of the congregation's growth. It has had a steady growth, and its service to the community has grown with time.

During the entire span of its life, the church has had only seven ministers--namely: Reverends Willis, Racks, Steptoe, Brown, Hubbs, late Pastor, Rev. Thomas Nelson Washington, and present pastor, Rev. Robert Bryant Jackson, who was elected in January of 1997. The late Pastor, Rev. Thomas Nelson Washington, served the congregation for 53 years, while his immediate predecessor, Rev. Ambrose Hubbs, was the pastor for 39 years. This is an indication of not only fine pastoral leadership, but lay leadership as well.

In September of 1961, the church grounds at 2525 Melpomene Avenue were purchased

by the New Orleans Housing Authority. Through the kindness of Rev. C. H. Hayes and the members of Wesley Methodist Church, they worshiped in their church edifice up until March 1, 1964, when they moved to their current edifice at 2505 Marengo Street. The fine Christian spirit and friendship that was exhibited by this pastor and congregation will always be remembered with grateful hearts by those members of their church who experienced this display of Christian charity. May God forever bless them.

Over the years, God has made Historic Second a Beacon Light of Gospel Truth to this community and communities beyond. In respect to its witness to communities beyond, God not only gave our late Pastor Washington a vision to broadcast the Gospel Message over the airwaves, but also provided sufficient grace to keep the broadcast for 55 years through August 28, 2005. Begun in 1950 on WWEZ, the radio airwaves carried our services live from 10:00-11:00 p.m. People in all areas of the city began to follow the Radio Broadcast of Historic Second Baptist Church and its dynamic young pastor. As a result of these many years of broadcasting, many members were added to the church.

As a much-respected spiritual force in this city, Historic Second Baptist Church has worked to educate, equip, and empower its members and our city's residents to perform their civic duties and responsibilities. In the 1960's, under the leadership of Pastor Washington, voter registration classes were held at the church to teach citizens of color how to register to vote. Their famed Radio Choir desegregated the Municipal Auditorium with its Annual Musicals, successfully fulfilling 21 contracts. Each time 5,000 to 8,000 people gathered to hear Pastor Washington and the Radio Choir at its best. One year, the Radio Choir was accompanied by the New Orleans Philharmonic Orchestra--a night long to be remembered. And it was their own late Rev. Avery C. Alexander who was dragged up the steps from the basement of City Hall, as he attempted to desegregate the City Hall cafeteria. The importance of Historic Second Baptist Church is felt to this day in our community, as countless individuals seeking public office still make their way to the church on Sunday mornings to appeal to this congregation for their support.

Through the years, Historic Second Baptist Church has stood as a symbol of pure idealism in the sense of what Jesus of Nazareth characterized in His teachings. As an institution and a definite entity of the Church Universal, this assembly, in golden purposes and architectural design, represents the fulfillment of the need for the true spirit of the changing times of this ultra-modern age--that is, the promotion of institutionalized Christianity to meet the needs of children, young people, and adults.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate 25 years of faithful, phenomenal leadership from an outstanding New Orleans Co-Pastor couple, Bishop Lester Love and Pastor Fran Love.

Bishop Lester Love is the Lead Pastor of the City of Love. He possesses unique leadership skills, and yet, widely recognized for his ability to organize a team of people, energize them to accomplish any challenges that are set before them, and provide them with strategies for implementation. Bishop Love was born in New Orleans, Louisiana on April 1, 1965, and currently serves as the Executive Secretary of the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship International. He received his license to preach in 1989, and was ordained on May 1, 1992 under the administration of Bishop of the Paul S. Morton, Sr.

On December 22, 1997, then interim Pastor Love of Greater Antioch presented his first message. One year later in April of 1998, both the Co-Pastor couple were installed as Pastors. In July 2005, he was consecrated to the highest position in the church, the office of a Bishop. He began his leadership as the Lead Pastor of the Greater Antioch Full Gospel Baptist Church in 1993.

Bishop Love, always seeking to make the Word of God as clear and relevant as possible, was asked constantly about the meaning of the word ``Antioch''. The Bible states that Antioch was the first place that the followers of Jesus were called Christians because of the love that they showed to one another and to the community at large (Acts 11:26). Thus, in 2009, the name Greater Antioch Full Gospel Baptist Church was changed to The City of Love. Pastor Fran was elevated to the office of Prophet in August 2022. Currently, the membership has exceeded 2,000 active members.

Bishop Love has published several books including Synergy, Catching the Mantle and The Art of Armor Bearing: God's Blueprint for Effective Servanthood, which quickly became the ``how to'' book for leadership and excellence in service for churches and corporations. His latest book ``Whatever It Takes''encourages us to maximize our potential.

His many talents also include singing. He was the featured soloist on the CD ``Where Love Abides,'' which won the Big Easy Award (New Orleans' version of the Grammys) for Best Gospel Artist. He has also garnered national attention for his YouTube ``Love Songs'' clip, which has millions of views.

Bishop Love has served as the host of the Essence Music Festival Gospel Tribute for several years and daily radio host on WBOK for ``The Lester Love Show.'' He's been crowned ``The Voice of Hope'' by many and this title is fitting of Lester Love--Senior Pastor of The City of Love in New Orleans, Louisiana. Lester Love's messages of hope, positive thinking and empowerment are sustaining and motivating both young and old across the country. His motto ``Living the Good Life'' encourages us to `Think Bigger, Dream Bigger, Live Better.'

Although Bishop Love's leadership abilities have been recognized across the globe, in addition God has sent him on a mission to fulfill his calling to teach and train the people of God on how to effectively serve the men and women of God.

Prophet Fran Love serves as the Co-lead pastor with her husband, Bishop Lester Love, at The City of Love in New Orleans, Louisiana. As a devoted wife and dedicated mother, Prophet Fran is listed among the most influential and socially engaged women of our time. Bishop Love and his wife Fran are the proud parents of three girls, Joy, Faith, and Angel Love.

From pulpits to street pavements, Prophet Fran's commitment to providing relief to the social issues affecting all mankind birthed the ministry of Daughters of Life and Love (DOLL) and nonprofit Love 365 where she leads an effort that cares for those suffering from a lack of food and homelessness.

Prophet Fran's kinetic faithfulness for a victorious living is deeply rooted in biblical principles. The totality of her essence firmly stands on her confession from James 1:4: ``I am perfect, I am complete, wanting and lacking nothing.'' Boldly leading revolutionary ministries, this award-winning humanitarian, spiritual leader, scholar, and actress is devoted to influencing people into higher levels of unity, forgiveness, fulfillment, and purpose.

After meeting in college, Lester and Fran Love were an immediate ``can't miss'' couple. Thirty-one years and three daughters later, this couple is still flowing together. Bishop Lester and Pastor Fran Love lead The City of Love Church, a loving, vibrant experience with its heart entrenched in New Orleans, LA. The Loves are touted by local and national organizations and media for their philanthropic community work. Through the church, they lead LOVE365, a community outreach organization that has fed upwards of 2,000 homeless and hungry people at the Salvation Army, Duncan Plaza and the Hollygrove Community per week. Bishop Love and Prophet Fran have been a part of the Essence Festival Celebration for several years.

Prophet Fran also leads a women's empowerment group, ``Fridays with Fran''. Together they were inspired to create The I AM Prayer Journey, designed to lead people into a simple, yet deeper relationship with God. The Greater New Orleans Community is blessed to have them as spiritual leaders to so many. I am proud to call them friends for over 25 years. What a blessing to have spiritual friends, a Bishop and prayer warrior throughout my political career. I am forever grateful for their friendship, love, and guidance as I serve the Constituents of LA02. I congratulate them on 25 years of spiritual leadership, and may they see many more years serving individuals across the country.

Mr. Speaker, let me say a huge thank-you to Representative Ivey for yielding and particular appreciation and thanks to Congressman D'Esposito, the chairman of the subcommittee.

I am pleased that we are here today to consider Representative D'Esposito's bill, H.R. 3224, the Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Extension Act of 2023, of which I am a proud original cosponsor.

The Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction, CWMD, office within the Department of Homeland Security was established to elevate and consolidate the Department's effort to protect our Nation from chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats.

CWMD supports Federal, State, and local law enforcement and first responders to defend against CBRN attacks and accomplishes this through programs such as the Securing the Cities program, STC, which holds significant importance for the residents of my home of New Orleans.

The Securing the Cities program bolsters our cities' capacity to identify and thwart potential terrorist threats, particularly during major events like Mardi Gras, Sugar Bowl, Super Bowl, and so many other events that are home to the State of Louisiana.

Another critical program deployed by CWMD is the National Biosurveillance Integration Center, NBIC. NBIC plays a pivotal role in early detection, rapid response, and coordinated efforts by identifying and tracking biological events and distributing its products to Federal, State, and local, congressional, and private sector partners. NBIC's coordination helps ensure a more effective and unified response to mitigate the impact of biological threats.

CWMD's expertise is instrumental in formulating and implementing strategies, coordinating intelligence efforts, and providing essential resources to fortify the Nation's CBRN capabilities.

Recognizing the pivotal role of this office, I am pleased that we could unite on a bipartisan basis to bring H.R. 3224, the Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Extension Act of 2023, to the floor today.

This bipartisan legislation extends CWMD's authorization for 2 years and mandates a Congressional report on the office's plans to enhance morale--an ongoing concern. The bill also requires the Government Accountability Office to brief Congress regarding the CWMD and how it is carrying out its mission.

CWMD is a critical asset, ensuring a safer and more secure nation for present and future generations. Continued support for this office is paramount, therefore, Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 3224.

Mr. Speaker, I thank Congressman Jackson for the great work that he continues to do. I thank him for his illustrious words and for the opportunity to participate in the CBC Special Order.

2023 has been an exciting and action-packed year. It has been an honor to serve as the second vice chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus under the leadership of my dear friend Congressman Steven Horsford, Democrat from Nevada.

As a member of the Regional Leadership Council for Region 7 and on the House Homeland Security and Transportation Infrastructure Committees, this session has been yet another one that we continue to work.

I am proud that, despite the pushback from our friends on the other side almost at every opportunity, we have accomplished historic investments for the American people. I would like to highlight just a few of them that we challenged all year long.

Environmental justice must be at the center of any action to address disproportionate health and environmental impacts on communities, especially communities of color. This year I hosted multiple EPA executives, including the EPA Administrator, Michael Regan, and the Secretary of Department of Energy, Jennifer

Granholm, and other leaders from my district.

Louisiana was also selected to establish new Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Technical Assistance grants, creating the first ever in Louisiana Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Center that will give communities an opportunity to have technical access to attract and have access to real resources to defend communities against environmental injustice. That is a success. The first that we have had in a long time at this level.

This will provide resource to help communities and nonprofits navigate the complex Federal grant process. Additionally, in Louisiana, we know better than anyone that storms are coming stronger, staying longer, coming faster, and leaving more havoc in their path, having greater impact than ever before.

Adequate funding is essential to enhance the resilience of our roads, bridges, and levies, ensuring they can withstand and recover from future natural disasters. By investing in robust infrastructure, we not only protect people's lives and property, but also bolster the overall economic sustainability of our region. Strengthening our infrastructure is a proactive measure that reduces long-term costs associated with disaster recovery, ultimately fostering a safer and more sustainable future for all Americans.

We have continued to see promises kept as funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law makes its way to the communities around the country.

I am committed to advocating for the vital funding to fortify our infrastructure, recognizing its pivotal role in safeguarding our communities against ever-present threats of natural disasters.

Just as important as protecting our Earth is the health of our minds and bodies of that of our citizens. Regardless of age, location, education, and economic standing, racism is the biggest barrier to mental health for the Black community.

This year, I convened multiple forums where I brought together visionaries, activists, and leaders who are shaping the future of this field in the Black community. These events focus on themes, including reduction in the isolation that our children saw during and after COVID, improving campus safety, and increasing access to healthcare providers. I am committed to fighting for greater representation in industry in the mental health area where we are significantly underrepresented with providers of this level of care.

Our veterans give so much to us, we owe it to them to make sure that we do all that we can to help them live healthy, productive, and meaningful lives during and, most importantly, after they come home. Far too many of our veterans come home to find themselves homeless, without a job, without resources, without someone to care after they have provided for us the greatest contribution, protecting our flanks. The freedom that we enjoy isn't free. It is paid by our veterans who put their lives on the line and sacrificed their family time. They should get the best services when they are away and when they come home.

This year, I hosted multiple VA curbside events across LA-02 to bring Federal resources to the front doors of our veterans and our citizens. That includes specific help for veterans like signing up for disability pay and receiving VA benefits, assisting with FEMA case work, and getting assistance with tax refunds.

This is only a small snapshot of the work House Democrats have done this year in fighting for all Americans. I will continue to put people over politics and work tirelessly for Louisianans to empower them with the necessary resources to not just survive, but to thrive.

Mr. Speaker, I wish everyone a merry Christmas, happy holidays, happy Hanukkah, happy Kwanzaa, and a blessed New Year.