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Congressional Daily Record
This section is a tribute, commemoration, or district-facing statement. It mentions members such as Buddy Carter.
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August 31, 2026
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Download official House Record PDFReturn to issue contextUnder the Speaker's announced policy of January 3, 2025, Mr. Carter of Georgia was recognized for 60 minutes as the designee of the majority leader.)
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of retired Glynn County Fire Rescue Chief and former Glynn County Commissioner Carl Johnson, Sr.
ranks
before serving as fire chief from 1992 until his retirement in 2004. His commitment to Glynn County did not end with retirement. He served as a member of the Glynn County Board of Commissioners from 2006 to 2010, always putting the needs of his community ahead of his own.
profession. It is a calling. Whether leading firefighters through emergencies or helping guide the future of Glynn County, he exemplified an unwavering dedication.
County gather to celebrate his remarkable life, we join them in remembering a man whose impact will be felt for generations.
Recognizing Bill Gross
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize my good friend, Bill Gross, of Kingsland, Georgia, on his appointment as chairman of the Jekyll Island State Park Authority.
Mr. Gross is the third generation of his family to grow up in Camden County and founded W.H. Gross Construction in 1983. Under his leadership, the firm became a leading developer of tax credit-financed senior and affordable housing across southeast Georgia. His company has also restored historic landmarks, including the Ware Hotel in Waycross and the Romana Riley Lofts in Savannah.
program's Frederick B. Kerr Service Award in 2022. He currently serves on the boards of the Southeast Georgia Health System Foundation and Cooperative Healthcare Services and previously chaired the health system's Camden Advisory Committee for 11 years.
Honoring Colonel Robert Fairel
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Colonel Robert Fairel on assuming command of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Savannah District.
Army Engineer Officer in 2001. He most recently served as Command Engineer for the U.S. Forces Command and U.S. Western Hemisphere Command at Fort Bragg. He commanded the 40th Brigade Engineer Battalion at Fort Bliss and deployed to Iraq, Afghanistan, and Kuwait.
Medal, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, and the Parachutist Badge.
service, including his leadership on the construction of the Cyber Center of Excellence at Fort Gordon, along with his work with Robins Air Force Base and Tyndall Air Force Base.
Honoring Lone Wolf Lounge
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Lone Wolf Lounge of Savannah, Georgia, for earning a spot on USA Today's Bars of the Year list for 2026.
Savannah's Starland District in 2018. Through its welcoming neighborhood atmosphere, they have built a reputation on their Caribbean feel, referencing the Savannah-Caribbean trade routes established in the 1700s.
honored on this year's list. The recognition follows Lone Wolf Lounge's selection last year as a semifinalist for the James Beard Award for Outstanding Bar. This honor reflects the kind of small business success that strengthens Savannah's Starland District and draws visitors from around the country.
Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Andrew, Tom, and the entire Lone Wolf Lounge team on this well-earned recognition.
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Congratulating Carl Gilliard
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate my good friend, State Representative and Reverend Carl Gilliard, on his 43 years of public service to Savannah and the State of Georgia.
High School and Morris Brown College. He went on to launch the Gilliard Foundation and the Feed the Hungry Foundation, which has served 2 million meals to families in need over 17 years.
at Savannah Technical College to honor him with the Rosa Parks Civil Rights Award.
television series “The Family Business” and “Shameless.”
Congratulating Bread and Butter
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Bread and Butter on being recognized as one of America's best new places to eat.
Bread and Butter is the largest venture from Auspicious Baking Co., a local favorite that first opened its doors in Savannah in 2017 and has since grown to multiple locations.
combining an inviting atmosphere with exceptional food, handcrafted pastries, and the hospitality that makes coastal Georgia so special.
overlooking Turner Creek, bringing together outstanding local cuisine and beautiful waterfront views in our vibrant community.
Businesses like Bread and Butter do more than just serve great meals. They create jobs, support our local economy, and showcase the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit that makes Georgia's First Congressional District such a special place to live and work.
Mr. Speaker, I encourage everyone visiting the Savannah area to stop by and experience this outstanding local establishment for themselves.
Congratulating Susan Gardner
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Susan Gardner of the Georgia Ports Authority, who has recently been promoted to the role of chief information officer.
oversaw daily port operations in Savannah, which handles around 40 ships per week and 15,000 truck transactions daily.
the senior director of operations and projects. Prior to her work with GPA, Gardner worked for the terminal operations software company Kaleris/Navis.
State's economy. Susan's long-term commitment will ensure that the GPA sees continued growth and development.
in good hands, and I would like to further congratulate Susan on her new role.
Honoring William Dunlap
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of William “Bill” Dunlap of St. Simons Island, Georgia, who passed away July 17 at the age of 92.
and led his fraternity chapter, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, as president. He served his country in the Army Reserve at Fort Detrick, working as an air control engineer. He went on to earn his MBA at Emory University before joining Georgia Power and its parent company, Southern Company, where he spent 25 years as a senior vice president.
Bill is survived by his wife Sandra and his family.
Honoring Catherine Sumner
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Catherine Sumner on her appointment as district attorney of Ogeechee Judicial Circuit.
Governor Brian Kemp appointed Ms. Sumner to fill the vacancy left by the passing of District Attorney D. Robert Busbee. She has served the Ogeechee Judicial Circuit for 12 years, including six years as Bulloch County's elected solicitor general.
2010 with a bachelor's degree in political science. She earned her law degree from the University of Georgia School of Law in 2014.
involving four sheriffs' offices, the Georgia State Patrol, and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.
Congratulations to Catherine on this well-earned appointment. The State of Georgia is in great hands.
Honoring Jim Cole
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate my good friend and former Georgia House of Representatives colleague, Mr. Jim Cole of Mercer University, on his recent retirement.
Mr. Cole started his college career as a student-athlete at Mercer, then later returned to serve in administration after serving in the Georgia State House of Representatives.
men's basketball tournament. From 2010 to 2026, they won 51 conference championships in numerous sports. Jim's dedicated efforts ensured that students could succeed on and off the field through enhancing athletic facilities, increasing game day programming, and finding pathways for students to excel in the classroom.
him for his long-term commitment to Mercer University. I am grateful for his selfless leadership and his dedication to the Macon community.
Recognizing Guerry Lumber's Partnership with PACK Savannah
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Guerry Lumber for its new partnership with People of Action Caring for Kids ahead of the company's 100th anniversary in Savannah.
surrounding region for nearly a century. As it approaches this milestone, the company is giving back to the community that helped build it.
children through PACK's weekend food assistance program for the incoming school year.
helping pack and distribute food to children and families across the Savannah area.
Malena Stone for their leadership and commitment to Savannah's children.
Recognizing Abby Leaventon
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Abby Leaventon, a jewelry artist from Savannah, Georgia, who was recently named a finalist for the 2026 Halstead Grant.
she creates handcrafted sterling silver and gold jewelry inspired by nature, places, and memory.
shops, including museum and botanical garden retailers, all while keeping her work rooted in Savannah.
recognition. Her craftsmanship and business skills are a credit to Savannah and the entire First District of Georgia.
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Remembering John F. Morrissey, Jr.
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize John Francis Morrissey, Jr., of Clermont, Florida, a Korean war veteran and accomplished civil engineer, who passed away on June 14, 2026, at the age of 96.
science in civil engineering and became a licensed professional engineer. He served as a lieutenant with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers during the Korean war.
president of White Oak Corporation, The Farms Country Club, Cheshire Junior Football, and the Connecticut Road Builders Association.
walker, and devoted Dodgers fan.
He is survived by his three sons: David, Gary, and Bill and their
families, along with his significant other, Amy DeVore.
Congratulating Heather Teilhet
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Heather Teilhet on being selected as the next president and CEO of Georgia Electric Membership Corporation.
experience and 28 years of experience in government affairs and communications. She previously served Georgia EMC from 2009 to 2017 in advocacy and government relations roles and most recently served as executive vice president of external affairs at Oglethorpe Power Corporation, one of the largest generation cooperatives in the U.S.
and press secretary for Governor Sonny Perdue during portions of his first and second terms in office.
Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Heather Teilhet in this well-deserved opportunity. I look forward to seeing Georgia EMC continue its important work across our great State.
Remembering Richard “Dick” Estus
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of my good friend, Richard “Dick” Estus of Savannah, Georgia, who passed away on August 1 at the age of 92.
founding Estus Outdoor in Savannah in 1971 after a 63-year career in the industry.
America and later chaired the Savannah Economic Development Authority, helping bring Home Depot's distribution operations to our region.
institutions, and the First District of Georgia is a better place because of him.
Honoring Judge Timothy Walmsley
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Judge Timothy Walmsley on his resignation from
the Chatham County Superior Court bench.
by Governor Nathan Deal and was re-elected by the people of Chatham County in 2014, 2018, 2022, and 2026.
litigation in Savannah and served as a part-time magistrate judge. Judge Walmsley presided over the 2021 trial in the murder of Ahmaud Arbery, guiding the courtroom through one of the most closely watched cases in our State's history. With over 14 years on the bench, he handled thousands of cases with fairness and integrity.
Mr. Speaker, the First District of Georgia is grateful for Judge Walmsley's years of dedicated public service.
Recognizing Charles “Brad” Dixon
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Charles “Brad” Dixon on his appointment by Governor Brian Kemp to the Atlantic Judicial Circuit Superior Court.
Duty in the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General's Corps, ultimately attaining the rank of major.
prosecutor, and trial and defense attorney as well as being a trainer for military prosecutors worldwide.
Virginia University in 2006, and his Juris Doctor from West Virginia College of Law in 2009.
Recognizing Billy Joe Nelson
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Billy Joe Nelson.
Atlantic Judicial Circuit, where he first served as an assistant district attorney in 2011 and was then elected to district attorney in 2022.
Georgia where he earned a bachelor of business administration in real estate, graduating cum laude. He then attended the Walter F. George School of Law at Mercer University.
Recognizing Melissa “Sissy” Blanchard
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Melissa “Sissy” Blanchard, a Brunswick native, Georgia Tech alumna, and accomplished entrepreneur whose career exemplifies determination, resilience, and service to others.
entrepreneurial spirit into a remarkable career spanning retail, hospitality, and small business ownership. From building a handbag and accessories brand carried by hundreds of boutiques nationwide to operating a successful wine bar and restaurant in California, Sissy has never been afraid to pursue a new opportunity.
Georgia where they built Porch+Patio into a leading outdoor furniture retailer with multiple locations.
reinvention, and remained committed to strengthening the communities around her.
Now, she is giving back through the Melissa J. Blanchard MBA Fellowship Endowment Fund at Georgia Tech, helping future students pursue their own dreams.
Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize Sissy for her entrepreneurial success and her commitment to creating opportunities for the next generation.
Recognizing Goshen United Methodist Church
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Goshen United Methodist Church in Rincon, Georgia, as its congregation celebrates an incredible 275 years of faith, fellowship, and service.
of Georgia history, first serving congregations along Abercorn Creek near the Savannah River.
and moved to its present location using logs, horses, and mules. In 1820, the Methodist Church was organized at Goshen, beginning more than two centuries of Methodist ministry that continues today.
continues building on that extraordinary legacy by sharing the way of Jesus and serving as a light to the community.
Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the entire Goshen United Methodist Church family on 275 years of ministry and pray its legacy of faith and service continues for generations to come.
Honoring John “Jack” Welsh
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor John “Jack” Welsh, a World War II combat veteran and soon to be centenarian. In fact, on September 4, he will be 100.
carrying a Browning Automatic Rifle and later served in the occupation force in Japan.
Bronze Stars, the Philippine Liberation Ribbon, and the Army of Occupation Medal, among other honors.
Forestry School and spent 35 years with the U.S. Forest Service. He and his wife, Mary Ann, were married 62 years and raised four sons together. Jack is the proud grandfather of 8 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.
Mr. Speaker, I thank him for his service and wish him a happy 100th birthday.
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Recognizing Judge Andy Prather
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Judge Andy Prather, the longest serving State court judge in Georgia, who announced his upcoming retirement.
Kemp that he will be retiring from the bench on November 30. This comes 3 months after he won an election to another 4-year term.
greatest privileges of his life and he looks forward to assisting incoming Chief Judge Pete Temesgen as he takes on the task of welcoming and training two new judges.
Recognizing Jackson Brooks
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jackson Brooks for his outstanding athletic accomplishments, which led to his selection to represent Georgia in this year's Patriot Games.
across the United States, American territories, and Tribal nations in challenges meant to test strength, endurance, agility, and teamwork with games such as dodgeball, tug-of-war, track and field, and kickball.
who
finished the year as the number 2 ranked rising junior.
record and was also a part of the GHSA class 5A State championship 4x800 relay team this spring.
Mr. Speaker, I am proud of Jackson—and I know his parents are as well—for representing us in the great State of Georgia.
Honoring the Life of Derrick Moore
Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and the sacrifice of Derrick Moore, who died rescuing a young girl from a rip current in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
On a late Friday evening, Mr. Moore, who was just 47, saw the young girl struggling in the ocean and immediately rushed into the water to help her. He successfully pulled the child from the rip current and brought her to safety, but was then pulled under water himself.
Beach Fire Department launched an intensive search that extended into Saturday morning. Unfortunately, ocean currents washed Moore's body ashore the next morning where officials later recovered him.
Mr. Speaker, I am honoring Derrick for his courageous and selfless acts, and our thoughts and prayers are with him and with his family.
Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.