[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 151 (Tuesday, September 16, 2025)]
[House]
[Pages H4356-H4360]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
REMEMBERING CHARLIE KIRK
(Under the Speaker's announced policy of January 3, 2025, Mr. Carter
of Georgia was recognized for 30 minutes.)
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of a true
American patriot, Charlie Kirk. Charlie Kirk was a beacon of
Conservative politics, a patriotic American who engaged young people on
issues that mattered and encouraged critical thinking.
At just 18 years old, he founded Turning Point USA, which brought an
entirely new generation of young, enthusiastic minds to the Republican
Party.
Charlie was never afraid to defend his values, speak out for the
voiceless, and do what was right, even when it was unpopular. He truly
inspired thousands of voters to join the MAGA movement, attracting
people with his unwavering conviction and ability to cut through the
noise to get to what we are all searching for--that is the truth.
No one worked harder than Charlie Kirk. He is irreplaceable and
already sorely missed. To quote President Trump: Charlie was great and
even legendary. He was loved and admired by all. Today, with a broken
heart, I echo the President's words.
This senseless political assassination must be met with the fullest
extent of the law. Political violence of any kind must be condemned. It
is un-American, and we will not stand for it. Please join me in prayers
for Charlie's wife, Erika, his young children, and the entire family.
May we take comfort in knowing that he was a man of faith and is
being embraced by his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Honoring Victor Waters
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Victor
Waters for his remarkable legacy as a musician, writer, and
entertainer.
Born in Tattnall Square, Mr. Waters spent his entire years along the
Sapelo River in McIntosh County before attending Benedictine Military
School in Savannah.
Immediately after graduating high school, he began a rock and roll
career that spanned six decades. Over the years, he signed with major
record labels and even toured with the godfather of soul, James Brown.
Vic's great artistic success came after returning to McIntosh County
to launch a solo career, releasing three acclaimed albums that captured
the spirit and culture of coastal Georgia.
Yet, his proudest achievement was the family he built and the
community he nurtured. In 1962, he met Sherry Elston of St. Petersburg,
and 2 years later they married. Together, they
[[Page H4357]]
raised two sons, Shad and Mason, who joined their father on stage as a
drummer and a bass player.
Today, we honor Vic Waters for his enduring influence and
inspiration.
Congratulating Jeff Hewitt on His Retirement
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Jeff Hewitt
for his dedication to the city of Savannah and to congratulate him on
his retirement.
Mr. Hewitt has served our community through Visit Savannah for 15
years, playing an instrumental role in expanding our hospitality and
tourism sectors. With an impressive 40-plus years of experience in his
field, Mr. Hewitt made significant contributions to Savannah, including
record-breaking room-night production growth and projects such as the
Savannah Convention Center expansion.
In addition to his impressive achievements, he has greatly expanded
Visit Savannah's national and international sales reach through his
relationship-building expertise. The city of Savannah is grateful for
the impact Mr. Hewitt has made during his career, and we will continue
to benefit from the legacy that he leaves behind.
I wish the best to Mr. Hewitt as he begins his retirement at the end
of this year.
Remembering Jack Ross Brigdon II
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jack
Ross Brigdon II, a resident of Georgia's First District and a captain
in the Savannah Fire Department.
Captain Brigdon's life as a public servant began in 1992 as a
volunteer firefighter with the Thunderbolt Volunteer Fire Department.
In 1996, he joined the Savannah Fire Department, where he would
ultimately serve a distinguished career that spanned from January 29,
1996, until his retirement on July 1, 2024, at the rank of captain.
Among his many accolades were being recognized as the 1995 State of
Georgia Rookie Firefighter of the Year and the Savannah Rookie
Firefighter of the Year in 1998.
Above all, Captain Brigdon was a devoted family man. He was the proud
father of three beloved sons, Jack, Alex, and Ashton.
In remembering Captain Brigdon's legacy, we are reminded of the
enduring values of servant leadership and steadfast devotion to others.
Recognizing Georgia's Public Schools
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, today I am proud to recognize
Georgia's public schools for their remarkable achievements in the
latest round of standardized test results. Despite the challenges and
setbacks brought on by the pandemic, our students and educators have
shown incredible perseverance.
One standout success is in mathematics, where most grade levels
improved compared to last year, and both fourth and eighth graders even
surpassed prepandemic achievement levels.
Reading levels also rose across much of the state, showing that the
investments in literacy support and tutoring are paying off. In
addition, the progress we see in reading ability shows strong signs of
momentum.
Our students are also excelling in science and social studies.
These accomplishments speak to the dedication of teachers, families,
and communities working together to ensure every child has the
opportunity to succeed. Let us celebrate the progress and let it
inspire us to keep building a bright, strong future for every Georgia
student.
{time} 1900
Honoring Georgia's Colleges and Universities on Best Colleges List
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Georgia's
colleges and universities that have earned national recognition by
being named The Princeton Review's ``Best 391 Colleges.'' Seven
institutions in our State received this distinction, each offering
students a unique and powerful educational experience.
At Agnes Scott College, the innovative SUMMIT curriculum equips
students to lead with purpose, while Berry College is recognized for
its strong culture of mentoring and personal growth. Emory University
stands out for its world-class research, and Georgia Tech continues to
be known for innovation and hands-on learning. Mercer University was
highlighted for outstanding study-abroad opportunities that connect
students to the global community, while Spelman College carries forward
its proud tradition of shaping generations of Black women leaders. The
University of Georgia, our flagship institution, was praised for its
wide range of programs, the Double Dawgs initiative, and its highly
regarded honors program.
Together, these schools exemplify Georgia's commitment to academic
excellence, opportunity, and innovation.
Congratulating Tybee Island Maritime Academy on Award
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate one
of Georgia's finest educational institutions, Tybee Island Maritime
Academy, for being recognized by the Association for Middle Level
Education as a 2025 school of distinction.
This honor did not come easily. It was earned through a rigorous
review process that included comprehensive schoolwide assessment,
continuous improvement planning, and interviews with staff, students,
and families.
After this intense evaluation, the panel decided to award the school
the distinction due to their STEAM culture, place-based
interdisciplinary learning, and strong community partnerships.
Tybee Island Maritime Academy has demonstrated their commitment to
excellence in the classroom while fostering a thriving middle school
community.
As Georgians, we take great pride in our educators, and it is
wonderful to see the fruits of their labor receive appreciation.
We are so grateful for the staff, administrators, teachers, parents,
and families in our State who realize the importance of a well-rounded
education and invest in our younger generations.
Mr. Speaker, Tybee Island Maritime Academy has impressed us all, and
we hope to share their story with educators around the world.
Celebrating Ross Drug's 50th Anniversary
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and
celebrate the 50th anniversary of Ross Drug, a true cornerstone of the
Sylvania, Georgia, community.
Founded in 1975 by Sonny Ross, this family-owned pharmacy has stood
the test of time.
Today, under the leadership of Ben Ross and Jesse Underwood, it
continues to carry forward the same spirit of service and dedication.
As the last independent pharmacy in the area, Ross Drug has always
gone above and beyond for the people it serves, whether it is
delivering medications to residents who cannot leave their homes or
helping busy families manage their prescriptions.
Over the decades, despite facing many challenges in a changing
healthcare landscape, Ross Drug has remained reliable and deeply
committed to its neighbors.
For 50 years, Ross Drug has put the community in community care.
Mr. Speaker, the story of Ross Drug reflects the strength, values,
and commitment that make a place like Sylvania so great.
Honoring Angel Moms Collective
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the mothers
who carry the weight of the loss of a child yet continue to stand with
strength and dignity.
In Atlanta, more than 300 survivors of crime are gathering for Crime
Survivors Speak, a national conference dedicated to healing and lifting
the voices of those most deeply impacted by violence.
Among those voices is a mother, Tiffany Smith, who lost her beloved
son, Cameron Jackson, at just 15 years old. Cameron is remembered as a
bright and caring young man, devoted to his family and community.
In his memory, Tiffany founded the Angel Moms Collective, which now
unites more than 300 mothers who share this heartbreaking loss.
The Angel Moms Collective offers these mothers a safe space to heal
and grieve while building a supportive community. Their courage is a
testament to their perseverance, even in the face of tragedy.
Mr. Speaker, in honoring them today, we remember their children and
honor their strength and unity.
[[Page H4358]]
Recognizing Kendall Rae Johnson
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an
exceptional young Georgian, Kendall Rae Johnson.
At only 6 years old, Kendall became the youngest certified farmer in
the United States, an achievement earned through her passion and hard
work in her pursuits.
Today, at the age of 10, Kendall has been awarded a full scholarship
to South Carolina State University, where she plans to study
agriculture.
With the support of her family, Kendall's farm produces fruits and
vegetables and raises animals. Beyond her own farm, she owns a
business, runs a nonprofit called Kendall Rae's Green Heart, and serves
as a USDA National Urban Agriculture Youth Ambassador.
Kendall's goal is to one day farm 100 acres of her own land, and she
is already laying the groundwork to make that dream a reality.
Mr. Speaker, today, we recognize Kendall Rae Johnson for her
determination, leadership, and example she sets for young people across
our Nation.
Recognizing Jarvis Jones
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jarvis
Jones, a Georgia native and former All-American and NFL player who has
returned home to lead and give back to his community.
As a student athlete, Jarvis helped lead Carver High School to its
first State football championship in 2007. He went on to star at the
University of Georgia and play in the NFL before returning to complete
his degree and serve on Georgia's coaching staff. In 2025, Jarvis
became the head coach at Carver High School in Columbus, his alma
mater.
Carver is the reigning Class 2A State champion, and Jones is building
on that tradition with a vision rooted in discipline and community. He
is committed to uplifting the next generation of student athletes,
instilling values of hard work and perseverance.
Mr. Speaker, we thank Mr. Jones for his service and the example he
sets for young people across his community and across our State.
Recognizing Kate Miller
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Kate
Miller as the new president of the Pooler Chamber of Commerce.
After beginning her career in the corporate world, Ms. Miller made a
pivotal decision to shift her focus. About 11 years ago, she stepped
into Chamber work, driven by a desire to give back to the community
that had long supported her. She hasn't looked back since.
In this role, Ms. Miller is passionate about supporting local
businessowners and professionals through development opportunities that
strengthen their careers. She believes advocacy not only helps
businesses grow but also uplifts individuals and the broader community.
Ms. Miller is especially focused on promoting sustainable growth and
helping to shape Pooler's economic future through impactful projects
and initiatives.
Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Ms. Miller on this well-deserved
opportunity and commend her dedication to the city of Pooler. I wish
her continued success as she leads the chamber in this exciting new
chapter.
Recognizing Paige Ewing
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize one of
Georgia's own, Paige Ewing.
On August 27, 2025, Mrs. Paige Ewing of Tattnall County was crowned
Mrs. America 2025.
The Mrs. America pageant was established to honor the most
accomplished married women in our Nation, recognizing their dedication
to family, service, and community.
Paige reflects these very qualities. A graduate of Pinewood Christian
Academy, she has brought pride not only to her hometown but to the
entire State of Georgia. She has carried herself with grace and
conviction, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to her faith, her
family, and the values that define us as Americans.
In January 2026, she will represent the United States at the Mrs.
World competition, where we know she will shine as an example of
Georgia's spirit and America's strength.
Mr. Speaker, today, we honor Mrs. Paige Ewing, a true representative
of both Georgia's pride and our Nation's values.
{time} 1910
Honoring Reverend Nelson Price
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life
and the legacy of Nelson Price. For 35 years, Price faithfully served
as pastor of Roswell Street Baptist Church in Marietta, guiding the
congregation through a season of remarkable growth.
Under his leadership, the church expanded its campus and became the
second largest sanctuary in the Southeast at the time of its
completion. Membership grew from a few hundred to nearly 10,000, a
testament to his vision and his unwavering commitment to building a
strong and faith-centered community.
Price's influence reached far beyond his church. He preached before
President Jimmy Carter and his Cabinet. He also served as vice
president of the Southern Baptist Convention.
To colleagues and parishioners alike, he was not only a pastor but
also a mentor, known for his passion for preaching and his ability to
guide others with wisdom and humility.
Mr. Speaker, for decades, Nelson Price loved and was deeply loved by
his community. His leadership will continue to inspire generations.
Honoring Benny Curl and William T. Daniel, Jr.
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the
2025 Savannah Business Hall of Fame Laureates, Benny Curl and William
T. Daniel, Jr.
As a Savannah native and veteran, Benny Curl serves as chairman
emeritus of Byrd Cookie Company. He purchased the company in 1988 and
transformed it into a nationally recognized business celebrated for its
flavors and packaging design.
Throughout his career, Mr. Curl has served in numerous leadership and
advisory capacities for Georgia businesses and associations.
Longtime Savannah resident William T. Daniel, Jr., is the owner of
Lassiter Investments, LCC, and former vice president and general
counsel of the Vaden Automotive Group. As owner of Lassiter, he has led
the company to acquire and manage over $17 million in commercial
properties across Georgia. Daniel remains an active community member,
serving in many advisory positions.
Mr. Speaker, both gentlemen achieved impressive accomplishments
within their businesses and contributed significantly to our
communities. For that, we celebrate and we thank them.
Honoring the Life of Lenton Brown
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of
Lenton Brown.
Born and raised in Reidsville, Georgia, Mr. Brown lived a life
dedicated to service and building community. His career led him to
serve in the United States Air Force and as an engineer for the State
of California before returning to Georgia.
He quickly got to work, serving his community as he launched the EE
Foundation. In this, he started a small Easter egg hunt that grew into
one of the largest in the country. The hunt grew to 90,000 eggs a year
and raised money to provide food, clothes, back-to-school supplies, and
toys for community members. This became so popular that donations
continued year-round.
Mr. Speaker, Mr. Brown was known as a jack-of-all-trades. He used his
talents to help those around him as best he could. Mr. Brown gave his
all for those around him. For that, we celebrate his legacy.
Honoring Richard J. Burrell
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Richard
J. Burrell, a resident of Georgia's First District, a Korean war
veteran, and emeritus trustee of Young Harris College.
Mr. Burrell was drafted into the U.S. Army during the Korean war and
served in the inspector general's office in Yokohama, Japan. During his
deployment, he spent his free time teaching English to local residents.
In 1954, he married Nancy Chisholm. Together, they raised three
children, Steve, Greg, and Pamela. He built a 40-year career at
Household Financial Corporation, rising to Southeastern Director of
Public Affairs and earning the Chairman's Award twice.
[[Page H4359]]
He also served on the board of Tucker Federal Savings & Loan and the
Georgia Financial Services Association, helping shape consumer finance
legislation.
Mr. Burrell remained deeply connected to Young Harris College,
serving on both the alumni board and the Board of Regents. In 1995,
Governor Zell Miller appointed him to the Stone Mountain Memorial
Association board.
Mr. Speaker, his life embodied service, humility, and dedication, and
we are grateful for his legacy.
Honoring Mark Robertson
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the work of
Mark Robertson, a Lowcountry radio legend. Mark has been working in
radio for 50 years, 48 of which have been with 98.7, The River, based
out of Savannah, Georgia.
While hosting the morning radio show for The River for many years,
Mark has gained a dedicated audience of thousands of listeners every
day. He also began the radio station's longtime tradition of playing
Christmas music for the entire show starting in late November.
Mark is loved for his active presence in the greater Savannah
community, supporting many local organizations and businesses. Mark is
also well-known for his love of animals, volunteering and being active
with many humane organizations throughout the area.
Mr. Speaker, today we celebrate Mark Robertson for his brilliant
career as a radio show host and wish him the best of luck in
retirement.
Honoring Cecilia Tran Arango
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Cecilia
Tran Arango for being selected for the second time to the list of Top
100 Influential Women. The list honors women across the State of
Georgia who are currently making a significant impact in engineering
and engineering-adjacent industries.
Mrs. Arango has worked for the past 24 years at Thomas & Hutton, an
engineering and consulting firm, where she serves as principle and
director of communications.
Since her time at Georgia Southern, she has selflessly given back to
her community, volunteering for a wide variety of charitable
organizations such as the Savannah Book Festival and March of Dimes,
just to name a few.
She dedicates her time to mentoring the youth in our community and
setting an excellent example for future leaders in every industry.
Mr. Speaker, the city of Savannah and the State of Georgia are proud
to have someone like Mrs. Arango representing our values and commitment
to excellence.
Honoring the Life of Tracy Dale Sands
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and
remember the life of Tracy Dale Sands. Born in Savannah and raised in
Glennville, Tracy was beloved by his family, profession, and local
community.
A 25-year veteran of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, Tracy
exemplified lifelong service to our State, our country, and his
community of Glennville, an achievement we can all applaud and strive
to emulate.
His dedication to public service and justice was recognized in 2015
when he was given the Bob Kirk Memorial Award for investigative
excellence.
A man of faith, the Harmony Church was a cornerstone of his life,
helping guide him throughout his life.
Leaving behind his loving wife, Melissa, and loving family, the
values Tracy lived by can be seen through his pride and joy, his son,
Matthew.
The First District of Georgia and I would like to honor Mr. Sands, a
man who has selflessly dedicated his life to his faith, his family, and
his country.
Honoring the Life of Harvey John Gilbert
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor and to
recognize the life of my friend, Harvey John Gilbert.
Born and raised in Savannah, Georgia, Harvey made it a priority in
life to set a great example for his family and community around him.
Serving in a variety of civic and charitable organizations, Harvey
gave his time and effort to anyone in need. An example of this was when
he shared a sustainable development organization with his business
partner, Stephen Ezelle, and his son, John.
The one thing Harvey loved most in this world was family. He married
the love of his life and college sweetheart, Cindy. Together, they
raised two wonderful children, Mary and John. Hosting friendly family
competitions dubbed ``La Competition,'' he would bring everyone
together to connect and have a good time, even if at times that could
get a little competitive.
Mr. Speaker, a man who dedicated his life to his family, friends, and
hometown of Savannah, Georgia, Harvey Gilbert has left a legacy for all
of us to follow.
{time} 1920
Freedom the Eagle Mascot
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life
and legacy of Georgia Southern University's treasured live bald eagle
mascot, Freedom.
We are deeply saddened by the loss of this beloved symbol. Freedom
served as an ambassador not only for Georgia Southern but also for
wildlife conservation and for the entire Nation.
For two decades, he inspired thousands of Georgia Southern athletic
events, the St. Patrick's Day parade in Savannah, and countless
community gatherings across Georgia and beyond.
Freedom became part of the university family in 2004, after being
rescued from a nest in Maitland, Florida. A permanent injury to his
beak prevented his release into the wild, but he found a new home
representing the strength and unity of Georgia Southern.
His presence embodied resilience, pride, and community spirit, and
his absence will be felt by many.
Today, we celebrate Freedom's life and honor him here in the United
States Capitol.
Fly high, Freedom. You will be remembered.
Army Best Squad
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an
extraordinary group of warfighters from Georgia's First Congressional
District, our very own squad from the 1st Ranger Battalion at Hunter
Army Airfield.
These Rangers have earned a place among the Army's top 12 squads,
competing in the Army's prestigious Best Squad Competition.
After overcoming weeks of intense physical, tactical, and knowledge-
based challenges, they will represent our district and the U.S. Army
during the final round in Washington, D.C., culminating at the
Association of the United States Army Expo in October.
On Saturday, October 11, they will take to the National Mall for a
fitness event during Community Day.
I encourage my colleagues and the public to attend and show their
support for our soldiers. Their excellence exemplifies the strength,
discipline, and readiness of our Armed Forces.
Mr. Speaker, I am proud to stand behind them, and I invite all of us
to uplift their efforts through steadfast support and advocacy.
Congratulating LeAndrea Mikell
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate
LeAndrea Mikell on her appointment as assistant vice president for
government and community relations by Savannah State University.
As an accomplished alumna of SSU, Ms. Mikell will bring her expertise
in government relations, strategic communications, community
engagement, economic development, and higher education to this role.
Thus far in her service to the university, her leadership has played
a critical role in securing nearly $20 million in funding and in
coordinating high-profile events, such as the historic visit of the
Dutch royal couple.
She has been an invaluable member of the SSU community as she has
brought strategic insight and unwavering commitment to their mission.
From her board memberships to her recognition as an Emerging Leader
of the Year, she exemplifies the values of dedication and community
stewardship.
The work she accomplishes in her new role will play a key role in
advancing SSU's mission, fostering relationships, and enhancing the
university's impact.
Mr. Speaker, I congratulate LeAndrea.
Honoring the Life and Legacy of Jerry ``Shag'' Wright
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life
and the legacy of Jerry ``Shag'' Wright.
[[Page H4360]]
Jerry was a proud descendant of the Wright family who came to Pierce
County as part of the Gilmer migration in the early 1900s.
Jerry honorably served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam war as a
frontline munitions carrier and being one of only 37 of the 185 in his
unit to return home in 1969, a testament to his courage and resilience.
Following his service, he began a long career at Rayonier, from which
he later retired.
Mr. Wright was deeply committed to public service, serving 10 years
on the Screven City Council before being elected as a representative on
the Wayne County Board of Commissioners, a position he held for 25
years.
Jerry was truly a man of the people, representing his community with
pride and helping everyone he could, whether they were his constituent
or not.
Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
____________________