[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 99 (Tuesday, June 10, 2025)]
[House]
[Pages H2574-H2575]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       CONGRATULATING GREG PARKER, RETAILER EXECUTIVE OF THE YEAR

  (Mr. Carter of Georgia was recognized to address the House for 5 
minutes.)
  Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Greg 
Parker on being named 2025 Retailer Executive of the Year by 
Convenience Store News.
  Greg, the founder and CEO of Parker's Kitchen, has grown his business 
from one store in 1976 to his 100th in a grand opening in April of 
2025.
  His brand has become a role model in business, being synonymously 
described as clean, friendly, profitable, and philanthropic. Greg 
exhibits the best characteristics of this award. He is a leader. He 
positively impacts his community, and he strives for business 
excellence.
  He is often recognized for his significant philanthropic efforts, 
recently donating $20 million to the Savannah Community Foundation. 
This generous donation is just one of many throughout his successful 
career.
  Mr. Speaker, the First District of Georgia appreciates Greg and his 
many years of friendship.


            Savannah: Our Nation's Top Honeymoon Destination

  Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Savannah's 
recent distinction as one of the Nation's top honeymoon destinations. 
The city was ranked sixth overall, accompanied by renowned areas such 
as Palm Springs, Napa Valley, and Miami.
  Savannah's downtown offers visitors a plethora of experiences. The 
Savannah Historic District offers preserved architecture and museums 
for history enthusiasts. Broughton Street offers a wide range of 
shopping options, featuring a mix of small, local shops and larger 
commercial retailers.
  If visitors prefer a more relaxing experience, Tybee Island is just 
15 minutes away. On Tybee Island, vacationers can enjoy the serene 
beaches, outdoor activities, and coastal relaxation.
  Savannah's distinctive blend of cultural richness and coastal beauty 
makes it an ideal destination for newlyweds.

                              {time}  1015


                        Honoring Robert Headley

  Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Robert 
Headley, for receiving the Student Organization Leader of the Year 
Award at Georgia Southern University.

[[Page H2575]]

  This award is presented annually to a student who demonstrates 
exceptional leadership, embodies their organization's values, and 
positively impacts student life on campus.
  As president of the Interfraternity Council during the 2024-2025 
academic year, he played an essential role in advancing Greek life and 
fostering collaboration among Greek organizations. Robert is an 
outstanding young man who has consistently excelled in all of the 
mentioned areas.
  I congratulate Robert on this remarkable achievement. I wish him the 
best in his future endeavors.


                        Honoring Nicholas Pappas

  Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the late 
Nicholas Pappas, a distinguished gentleman who devoted more than 30 
years to the restaurant scene in Savannah, Georgia.
  As a longtime owner of the Olympia Cafe, he united locals and 
tourists with his cherished recipes, exceptional culinary skills, and 
warm personality. Under his leadership, the restaurant gained 
significant acclaim, being ranked in the top 10 percent of restaurants 
worldwide by Tripadvisor in 2024.
  Mr. Pappas was more than just a restaurant owner. He was a loving 
father and a grandfather, a mentor and a role model, and an exemplary 
civil servant. His legacy will live on through Olympia Cafe, where 
countless memories and joy were brought to many. He set a superb 
example for others to follow through his welcoming manner and 
unwavering work ethic.
  Today, we celebrate Nicholas Pappas' life. The community is 
strengthened in the one-of-a-kind service that he provided to the 
people of Savannah.

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