[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 49 (Wednesday, March 18, 2026)]
[House]
[Pages H2591-H2594]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
HONORING CONSTITUENTS OF GEORGIA
(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 to honor Michael
Proctor, who, sadly, passed away on February 12 at the age of 58.
Michael, a Georgia native, attended Worth County High School, where
he first showcased his natural athletic ability. He started for the
Murray State Racers at Murray State University as quarterback, where he
was honored with the nickname ``The General.''
During this time, he earned All-Ohio Valley Conference honors and OVC
Offensive Player of the Year, and he set the Murray State record in
career yards. He was inducted into the Murray State University Athletic
Hall of Fame in 2000, with his No. 11 being retired.
After college, Proctor played briefly for the New England Patriots,
the Cleveland Browns, the World League of American Football, and the
Canadian Football League. He was an accomplished football player with
incredible talent and determination.
Proctor's journey from small-town Georgia to the football spotlight
is truly inspirational. May he rest in peace, and his legacy live on.
Honoring Scott Morrison
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to recognize Pastor
Scott Morrison. He serves as discipleship pastor at the First Baptist
Church of Vidalia, Georgia.
Pastor Morrison has a legacy of leadership with over 25 years of
experience. In 2001, he became the minister of students, making
discipleship a priority for the youth of the church. Several of his
students entered the ministry and later became missionaries themselves.
Pastor Scott embodies the Scripture through his work at First Baptist
Church, helping others every day. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he
started a nonprofit effort at Vidalia High School called Whisper to
address rising mental health concerns. His efforts have increased
student well-being across the region, as it has expanded to other
schools. His dedication to bettering the lives of young people in his
community sets an example for us all.
Pastor Scott is married to Mindy, and they have two sons and a
daughter.
I thank Pastor Scott Morrison for his community leadership and
service to others over the past 25 years. He is and will be a critical
part of the Vidalia community for years to come.
Honoring Mayor John William Grant, Jr.
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory
of former Milledgeville Mayor John William Grant, Jr., who passed away
on February 14 at the age of 99.
Mayor Grant was born in 1926, serving in the U.S. Navy during World
War II and graduating from college soon after. Back in Milledgeville,
he successfully ran his family jewelry business while simultaneously
serving 20 years as a Milledgeville city councilman and 4 years as
mayor.
He was known for his integrity, thoughtful leadership, and deep
commitment to the people of Milledgeville during his time in office. He
led with a hands-on approach, focusing on improving infrastructure,
encouraging community growth, and fostering unity among residents.
Mayor Grant is survived by his children, grandchildren, great-
grandchildren, and countless friends. He will be remembered as a
kindhearted leader who truly cared about the people of Milledgeville.
My thoughts and prayers are with his family and the entire community.
Remembering Tony Petrea
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of
Tony Petrea, a proud Savannah native who passed away at his home in
Statesboro surrounded by his loving family and friends.
Tony was a man of discipline, integrity, and strength who built a
respected name for himself in his community through hard work and
dedication.
He cherished his years coaching baseball, sharing his time and wisdom
with young athletes. He was also an amateur radio enthusiast and loved
to travel, exploring destinations from Mexico to the Adriatic and
Mediterranean Seas.
In addition to his many passions, Tony established the J.L. Petrea
Construction Scholarship at Ogeechee Technical College, allowing two
students each year to receive financial support to pursue their
education.
Tony's generosity and kind spirit were a hallmark of his life. He
connected easily with others, gave selflessly, and never sought
recognition for his good deeds. His legacy will live on through the
lives he touched and the opportunities he created for others.
Recognizing Georgia Southern's Ethics Bowl Team
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an
outstanding achievement by the Georgia Southern University Ethics Bowl
team from Statesboro, Georgia.
This talented group of Eagles has qualified for the 2026 APPE
Intercollegiate Ethics Bowl National Competition in St. Louis,
Missouri.
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After a strong performance at the regional competition in Dahlonega,
they earned their spot among just 36 top undergraduate teams
nationwide.
In the Ethics Bowl, students engage in thoughtful, collaborative
discussions on real-world moral, political, and social issues. They
prepare cases for months, apply ethical theories, present reasoned
positions, and offer civil commentary on opponents' views. It is not
about winning arguments but about analyzing complex dilemmas with
clarity and respect.
Team president Cade Huff credits Ethics Bowl with sharpening his
communication skills and preparing him for a potential career in law
and government.
I congratulate the Georgia Southern Ethics Bowl team for exemplifying
intellectual rigor and ethical leadership. May they bring home strong
results and inspire others to thoughtful engagement.
Remembering Miriam Kantsiper Center
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to honor the life
of Miriam Kantsiper Center, who passed away on February 17.
Mrs. Center was a prominent member of the Savannah community for many
decades. In addition to having a lifelong interest in politics and
civic issues, she established a successful real estate business and an
all-female Little League team in Savannah.
Miriam was also the first female chairperson of Savannah's
Metropolitan Planning Commission. She played an instrumental role in
getting her husband, Leo, elected to the Savannah City Council on
multiple occasions.
At the age of 74, Mrs. Center became an author and at 80, a
playwright.
In 2020, she received the Savannah Woman of Vision Award from the
Savannah College of Art and Design for her invaluable impact on the
Savannah community.
I knew Miriam well. She was a very special lady. My thoughts and
prayers go out to her two sons and five grandchildren.
Honoring Jan Jones' Service
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Georgia
State Representative Jan Jones, whose term ending this year will mark
the end of an impressive and impactful tenure in the Georgia
legislature.
Representative Jones was first elected to the Georgia House in 2002
and became speaker pro tempore in 2010. She was reelected to that
position every term since, making her the longest serving speaker pro
tempore in the country and the most powerful woman in the Georgia State
House.
Jan led Senate Bill 233, the Georgia Promise Scholarship Act, through
the statehouse. This established a voucher program for students who
switched from a low-performing public school to a private or home
school program. Despite multiple times of the bill being in danger of
failing, Representative Jones' strong connection throughout the
legislature ensured its passage.
Current House Speaker Jon Burns has called her a trailblazer who will
leave a significant mark in State history.
I thank my friend, Representative Jones, for her many years of
dedicated service to the State of Georgia and congratulate her on a job
well done. It was, indeed, an honor to serve with her.
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Remembering Joe Randall
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of
Joe Randall, a prominent member of the Savannah community, who passed
away on February 14.
Mr. Randall played an instrumental part in shaping southern cuisine
through his cookbook ``A Taste of Heritage: The New African-American
Cuisine.''
The book's popularity led to it being inducted into the James Beard
Foundation Cookbook Hall of Fame. Chef Randall was affectionately known
as the ``Dean of Southern Cuisine'' and featured in the Smithsonian
National Museum of African American History and Culture for his
contributions to southern cuisine.
In 1993, Randall founded the African American Chefs Hall of Fame as
part of the Taste of Heritage Foundation. In addition, he founded the
Chef Joe Randall's Cooking School in Savannah where he trained aspiring
chefs and local students.
Mr. Speaker, Joe is survived by his wife, Barbara, along with his
children, his sisters, and his grandson.
Remembering Randall Eugene Davis, Sr.
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Randall
Eugene Davis, Sr., who passed away on February 16.
Randy was a lifelong Savannahian and a proud resident of Wilmington
Island.
In 1994, Randy and Sherry, his wife of 35 years, opened Davis Produce
in Savannah and grew it to the Wilmington Island staple that it is
today.
For 31 years, Randy dedicated himself to his community, paying their
generosity forward. Mr. Davis understood that small businesses such as
his survive through hard work, determination, and service to the
community. These are values that he exemplified each day.
Known as the ``home of the killer tomato,'' Davis Produce became a
place of community gathering and friendship for all.
Randy was an exemplary member of the community who found happiness by
bringing joy to others, both within and outside of his business.
Mr. Speaker, Randy is survived by his wife, his father, his siblings,
and community at large who greatly appreciated his years of service.
Remembering John S. Kern
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of
John S. Kern, who passed away on January 30.
He studied at the Florida Institute of Technology, the University of
Delaware, and the University of South Florida, earning degrees in civil
and structural engineering.
John built a distinguished career as an engineer, opening his own
firm in 1976 and, with it, a reputation for excellence and quality.
His impact on Savannah didn't stop at his profession. John was
heavily involved in a variety of Savannah-based organizations like The
Landings Club and The Savannah Golf Club. John was an avid golfer and
aviator, enjoying piloting his own plane all across the Southeast.
Above all, he deeply valued the life he shared with his wife, Sherry,
and the many lasting friendships and memories they created together.
As mayor of the city of Pooler, I had the honor of working with John
on many projects. He was truly an asset to our community.
Mr. Speaker, our thoughts and prayers are with his family and his
friends.
Remembering Albert Jernigan Swann, III
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the
remarkable life of Albert Jernigan ``AJ'' Swann III, who passed away on
February 16.
Born and raised in Macon, Georgia, AJ graduated from Lanier High
School before attending Georgia Tech, where he competed in golf and
basketball for the Yellow Jackets. His love for golf turned into a
lifelong passion, being a longtime member of the Harness Golf Club,
recording an outstanding eight holes-in-one during his golf career.
AJ was equally known as a long-distance runner, proudly finishing
nine marathons and 31 half marathons. Professionally, he was involved
in construction, real estate development and commercial cleaning,
operating Beacon Property Services.
Above all, AJ embodied qualities of the true southern gentleman:
warm, genuine, and quick to make everyone feel valued and appreciated.
He often said none of this would have been possible without the
unwavering love of his devoted wife, Ruth.
Mr. Speaker, we hold his family and friends in our thoughts and
prayers.
Annie Laura Wildenradt Turns 105 Years Old
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize World
War II veteran Annie Laura Wildenradt, who turned 105 years old last
month.
Ms. Wildenradt was born on February 27, 1921, in Statesboro, Georgia,
as the oldest of eight children.
The Georgia native joined the Army during World War II, working with
the Women's Army Auxiliary Corps.
Her courageous and exceptional service has helped pave the way for
future generations of women in the military.
Last year, at 104, she received the Award of Valor from Veterans of
Foreign Wars Post 10825 for her service and lasting impact.
Ms. Wildenradt's family affectionately calls her ``Aunt Lolly'' and
celebrates her birthday each year as a way
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to honor her life and kindness. Her legacy is unmatched, and we are
proud she represented our great State of Georgia.
Honoring Representative Carl Gilliard
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor my good
friend, Georgia State Representative Carl Gilliard, who announced he
won't be seeking re-election.
Representative Gilliard has been a dedicated public servant, serving
Georgia's 162nd District for the past 10 years.
During his time in office, he has been a force for community and
progress, passing more bills than any other Democratic lawmaker.
His accomplishments include passing the blind bill to protect blind
parents' rights, creating Chatham County Gang Prevention Commission as
a statewide model, and establishing authorities to preserve cultural
heritage.
He chaired the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus, has renamed
countless roads and bridges to memorialize local heroes, and fought for
our communities through Feed the Hungry Youth programs.
His retirement can be summed up in his words: It is time to come
home.
Mr. Speaker, his legacy of service from Atlanta to Savannah inspires
us all and we thank him for his extraordinary contributions to Georgia
and our communities.
Congratulations, my friend, on your retirement.
Honoring Michele Knight
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Michele
Knight for being named the new chief executive officer of the Bryan
County Chamber of Commerce.
Ms. Knight is a proven leader whose career has been defined by
service and results. Throughout her career, she has brought together
boards, elected officials, investors, and community leaders to advance
shared priorities and foster long-term sustainable growth.
Her background in nonprofit management, hospitality, marketing, and
business development makes her exceedingly qualified to lead the
chamber into the next chapter.
Through Ms. Knight's leadership, I am confident the chamber will
continue to grow and serve the people and businesses of Bryan County.
We are very proud of her and look forward to the great work she will do
in this new role.
Recognizing The Lighthouse WECC
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize The
Lighthouse WECC, an aspiring nonprofit radio station serving southeast
Georgia and northeast Florida.
Rooted in the timeless truth Romans 10:17 gives us: ``Faith comes by
hearing and hearing by the Word of God,'' The Lighthouse is dedicated
to proclaiming the Gospel, offering hope, and being a shining beacon in
the darkness.
Far more than a station, it serves as a voice of encouragement,
equipping and uniting the body of Christ in a world that desperately
needs truth and love.
Its ministry extends beyond the airwaves through The Rock Ministry
Center, where Bible studies, youth programs, and partnership with local
ministries like Cub Scouts and Fellowship of Christian Athletes bring
its vision to life and fosters lasting impact in our communities.
We are deeply grateful for their faithful service in strengthening
faith, sharing the good news, and ministering to others with compassion
and conviction.
Together, we continue to shine His light in our communities and
across the Nation.
Honoring Georgia Senator Ed Harbison
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize my good
friend, District 15 Georgia State Senator Ed Harbison, who will not be
seeking re-election.
First elected to the Senate in 1993, Senator Harbison is the longest-
serving member of the Georgia Senate and has faithfully represented the
people of his district for more than three decades.
Throughout his time under the Gold Dome, Senator Harbison worked to
serve and protect the citizens of his district and the State of
Georgia. Before his time in the Senate, he was the vice president of
the Muscogee County School Board and a member of the Columbus Review
Commission.
Over the decades, Senator Harbison witnessed and helped achieve many
milestones in the Georgia general assembly during his distinguished
career. His public service to the people of Georgia will not be
forgotten.
Mr. Speaker, I thank Senator Harbison for his years of leadership and
commitment to the great State of Georgia. I had the honor and privilege
of serving with Senator Harbison. He is truly a great Georgian.
Recognizing Judge Jason B. Thompson
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Fayette
County State Court Judge Jason B. Thompson on his appointment to the
Supreme Court of Georgia's Commission on Dispute Resolution.
Judge Thompson has served as a State court judge in Fayette County
since 2013. Prior to that, he held multiple roles as a prosecutor and
as a municipal and magistrate court judge in Georgia.
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Mr. Speaker, he helped create the Griffin Judicial Circuit's DUI/Drug
Court and Veterans Treatment Court programs. These initiatives focused
on treatment and accountability within the legal system. Since its
inception, this program has graduated over 100 participants and saved
the community $1 million in jail costs.
In his new position, Judge Thompson will serve on the commission that
sets standards for mediation and dispute resolution throughout the
State. These programs allow legal conflicts to be resolved outside the
courtroom, saving time and reducing costs.
Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Judge Thompson on his appointment.
Honoring the Life of Garry Patrick
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the
life of Garry Joseph Patrick, the general manager of Old Town Trolley
Tours in Savannah, Georgia, who passed away on March 5.
Garry Patrick was a respected leader and a valued member of
Savannah's community. He began his career with the Old Town Trolley
Tours in 2010 as the depot sales manager. After a successful 3 years,
he stepped forward to serve as program manager for the Ghost and
Gravestones Tour.
Throughout his career, Garry also worked in the Groups and Charters
department and served as assistant general manager before becoming
general manager.
Most importantly, the key to Garry's success was his kindness and his
deep commitment to the people around him. He made a lasting impact on
his colleagues and on the Savannah community he served. He helped shape
the experience of countless visitors who came to learn about Savannah's
rich history.
Mr. Speaker, Garry will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege
of knowing him.
Congratulating Young Harris College Mountain Lions
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an
incredible achievement in Division II basketball for the great State of
Georgia. In Spartanburg, South Carolina, the Young Harris College
Mountain Lions claimed their first-ever Conference Carolinas Men's
Basketball Championship, defeating Chowan University 82-79 in a
thrilling title game.
This victory marks a milestone for the program, securing the
automatic bid to the NCAA Division II men's basketball championship and
capping off a remarkable 22-8 season.
Led by Conference Carolinas Player of the Year Carl Cleveland, the
Mountain Lions showed resilience and heart. Cleveland scored a game
high of 34 points, including 6 three-pointers, accompanied by Cameron
Bleshoy's 11 points, Justin Payne's 14 points, and Christian Drummer's
10 points. The team forced 15 turnovers for crucial transition points,
fighting against it constantly.
To Coach Jeremy Currier, the players, staff, and the entire Young
Harris community, congratulations on making school history. Mr.
Speaker, I honor my alma mater.
Honoring the Life of Preston Lawrence
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of
Preston Lawrence of Brunswick, Georgia. Mr. Lawrence passed away on
Saturday March 7, 2026, in Brantley County.
He was a fearless and daring outdoorsman who found his peace while
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hunting and excitement while four-wheeling through the woods.
Preston was dedicated to the Lord, often participating in Bible study
with his friends. His love of all things outdoors was only outdone by
his commitment to his friends and family.
A class of 2024 Glynn Academy graduate, Preston was a dedicated
employee of GP Cellulose since 2024.
Above all, Preston loved people with unwavering loyalty. To know him
was to have a protector, a prankster, and true friend in your corner.
Preston's memory will be carried on by his loving family and friends
who cheered him on throughout his life.
Honoring Daniel W. Wright, Jr.
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life
and legacy of longtime educator and civil rights giant, Daniel W.
Wright, Jr., who passed away at the age of 95.
Mr. Wright, who was born in 1930, is remembered as a man of kind
words, a thoughtful demeanor, and sincere encouragement.
In 1963, Wright served as the president of Chatham County Teachers'
Association in Savannah. As president, he took on the Georgia Teachers
and Education Association, fighting for equal pay for Black teachers
and school administration. Additionally, he fought for pupil-teacher
ratio equity, understanding that a lower ratio would improve individual
attention per student.
These actions are a testament to Mr. Wright's commitment to ensuring
all people receive equal rights and freedoms, especially in the
education sphere.
A husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Mr. Wright was
dedicated to his family and constantly poured love into their lives.
On behalf of all Georgians, we thank Mr. Wright for his devotion
toward the fight for civil rights and equal freedoms.
Honoring Lieutenant Colonel Brandon A. Shah
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life
and the service of Lieutenant Colonel Brandon A. Shah, a decorated Army
aviator and proud University of Georgia graduate, who was tragically
killed in a terror attack at Old Dominion University.
A native Virginian, Shah enlisted in the Army in 2003, honorably
serving in both Iraq and Afghanistan. He earned his MBA from UGA's
Terry College of Business in 2018, while stationed at Hunter Army
Airfield in Savannah, Georgia, in the First Congressional District.
With over two decades of service, including 1,200 flight hours and
600 in combat, he led as Professor of Military Science at ODU's Army
ROTC, mentoring future leaders.
Described as having a passion for impacting lives daily, his bravery
lives on through the courageous students who subdued the attacker.
Our thoughts are with his family, the University of Georgia and Old
Dominion University communities, and all who knew this devoted patriot.
May we remember his legacy of service and sacrifice.
God bless his memory, and may he rest in peace.
Recognizing Dr. Alexandra Estrella
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr.
Alexandra Estrella, a veteran educator and proven school system leader,
for being named as the sole finalist for Superintendent of Gwinnett
County Public Schools. This is Georgia's largest district and the 11th
biggest in the Nation.
With over 26 years in education, Dr. Estrella has served as
superintendent of Norwalk Public Schools in Connecticut since 2020.
While there, she drove remarkable progress, elevating the 4-year
graduation rate to 92.6 percent, slashing chronic absenteeism to 17.9
percent, and achieving academic growth in language arts and math that
surpassed State averages.
Starting her career as a science teacher in New York City, she later
founded Esperanza Preparatory Academy, a dual-language school focused
on college preparation; and she led complex systems with clarity and
purpose.
After a thorough national search informed by thousands of community
voices, the Gwinnett Board praised her intellect, her integrity, her
courage, and deep commitment to equity and excellence. Her data-
centered leadership will help ensure every child in Gwinnett is seen,
supported, and empowered to thrive.
I congratulate Dr. Estrella and welcome her expertise.
Honoring County Commissioner Roy Thompson
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the
life of Roy Thompson, the former chairman of the Bulloch County Board
of Commissioners in Georgia.
Mr. Thompson was a dedicated public servant, a businessman, and
community leader who spent decades working to improve the lives of
those around him.
A lifelong resident of Bulloch County, Thompson served for 12 years
as a county commissioner, where he helped guide the county through a
period of huge growth. Through this transition, he helped collect
thousands of pounds of food and raised money to support families in
need throughout Bulloch County. He also worked to ease financial
burdens by helping cover utility costs for those facing hardship.
Mr. Thompson was known for his generosity, his strong character, and
his deep love for his community. Whether supporting local families or
giving back in quiet ways, he served others with heart and with
purpose.
Mr. Speaker, his impact on Bulloch County is lasting, and he will be
deeply missed.
Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
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