Earl L. "Buddy" Carter
Representative for Georgia · Republican · United States
“Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of my bill, H.R. 2821, the FDA [[Page H4640]] Modernization Act 3.0, bipartisan legislation that ensures the FDA fully embraces modern science while reducing unnecessary animal testing.”
“In 2022, Congress took an important first step by passing the FDA Modernization Act 2.0. I was proud to help lead that effort. That law gave drug developers the ability to use modern, scientifically validated alternatives to traditional animal testing when appropriate. Congress made its intent clear.”
“Ultimately, that means lifesaving treatments can reach patients more quickly without compromising the FDA's rigorous standards for safety and effectiveness. This is a commonsense, bipartisan bill. It reflects a simple principle: We can advance medical innovation while improving animal welfare. Those goals are not in conflict.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026)] [House] [Page H4672] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING OFFICERS GABRIEL VERAS, JR., AND CARIN ELMORE (Mr.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026)] [House] [Page H4672] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING OFFICERS GABRIEL VERAS, JR., AND CARIN ELMORE (Mr.”
“Officer Veras arrived before paramedics and began chest compressions and rescue breaths, reviving the child. Because of their quick and heroic action, a life was saved, and the child made a full recovery. On September 4, the city of Norcross awarded both officers the Arthur M. Kaplan First Responder Award for their heroism.”
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“Officer Veras arrived before paramedics and began chest compressions and rescue breaths, reviving the child. Because of their quick and heroic action, a life was saved, and the child made a full recovery. On September 4, the city of Norcross awarded both officers the Arthur M. Kaplan First Responder Award for their heroism. This year, the National Association of Police Organizations honored Officer Veras with the 2026 TOP COPS honorable mention, and Governor Brian Kemp commended his lifesaving actions. I thank Officer Veras and Officer Elmore for their efforts to serve their community to the fullest capacity. I congratulate both of them on their well-deserved recognition and thank them for their service. ____________________”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026)] [House] [Page H4672] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING OFFICERS GABRIEL VERAS, JR., AND CARIN ELMORE (Mr. CARTER of Georgia asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.) Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Norcross Police Officer Gabriel Veras, Jr., and Communications Officer Carin Elmore for their heroic and lifesaving teamwork. On April 7, 2025, Officer Elmore, acting quickly after receiving emergency calls, dispatched officers to the scene of a 3-year-old child in cardiac arrest.”
“Ultimately, that means lifesaving treatments can reach patients more quickly without compromising the FDA's rigorous standards for safety and effectiveness. This is a commonsense, bipartisan bill. It reflects a simple principle: We can advance medical innovation while improving animal welfare. Those goals are not in conflict. In fact, they go hand in hand. Mr. Speaker, the FDA Modernization Act 3.0 fulfills the promise Congress made when we passed the FDA Modernization Act 2.0. It ensures that modern science is fully incorporated into our regulatory process. It helps reduce unnecessary animal testing and strengthens American medical innovation. It also helps bring new therapies to patients more efficiently. I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 2821, the FDA Modernization Act 3.0.”
“Today's researchers have access to technologies that simply did not exist a generation ago: advanced human cell models, organ-on-a-chip technology, artificial intelligence, and computational modeling. These innovative tools have the potential to better predict how medicines will perform in humans while reducing reliance on animal testing. Our laws should reflect the science of today, not the science of decades past. Modernizing drug development doesn't just benefit animals. It benefits patients. By providing greater clarity and encouraging the use of validated alternative methods, we can make the drug development process more efficient. That means fewer unnecessary delays and more innovation.”
“In 2022, Congress took an important first step by passing the FDA Modernization Act 2.0. I was proud to help lead that effort. That law gave drug developers the ability to use modern, scientifically validated alternatives to traditional animal testing when appropriate. Congress made its intent clear. We wanted to encourage more effective, more humane, and more innovative approaches to drug development. Unfortunately, the previous administration failed to fully implement the law. Without clear implementation, too many researchers have lacked the certainty they need, and too many animals continue to be used in testing that modern science can increasingly replace. H.R. 2821 ensures the FDA finally carries out the will of Congress. This bill is not lowering standards. It is about raising them.”
“Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of my bill, H.R. 2821, the FDA [[Page H4640]] Modernization Act 3.0, bipartisan legislation that ensures the FDA fully embraces modern science while reducing unnecessary animal testing. Many of our families would feel incomplete without the pets and animals that bring unconditional love into our lives. Yet every year, millions of animals, including dogs, man's best friend, are still subjected to testing in the development of new medicines. As policymakers, we have a responsibility to protect those who cannot protect themselves. That responsibility includes embracing scientific innovation that can reduce unnecessary animal suffering while continuing to deliver safe and effective treatments to patients.”
“Officer Veras arrived before paramedics and began chest compressions and rescue breaths, reviving the child. Because of their quick and heroic action, a life was saved, and the child made a full recovery. On September 4, the city of Norcross awarded both officers the Arthur M. Kaplan First Responder Award for their heroism. This year, the National Association of Police Organizations honored Officer Veras with the 2026 TOP COPS honorable mention, and Governor Brian Kemp commended his lifesaving actions. I thank Officer Veras and Officer Elmore for their efforts to serve their community to the fullest capacity. I congratulate both of them on their well-deserved recognition and thank them for their service. ____________________”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026)] [House] [Page H4672] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING OFFICERS GABRIEL VERAS, JR., AND CARIN ELMORE (Mr. CARTER of Georgia asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.) Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Norcross Police Officer Gabriel Veras, Jr., and Communications Officer Carin Elmore for their heroic and lifesaving teamwork. On April 7, 2025, Officer Elmore, acting quickly after receiving emergency calls, dispatched officers to the scene of a 3-year-old child in cardiac arrest.”
“A lifelong Georgian and graduate of Forsyth Central High School and the University of Georgia--go Dawgs--Ledbetter dedicated nearly 21 years to public service, after having taken office in 2005 and most recently being reelected to a sixth term in 2024. Matthew will be remembered as a tireless advocate for the people of Forsyth County, known for turning the Tax Commissioner's Office into a well-oiled machine and building a legendary reputation for customer service. Friends recall his leadership, his wit, and his personality, as he never met a stranger. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Allison, and father to his sons, Evan and Ben. Georgia is grateful for Matthew's years of dedicated service, and our thoughts and prayers remain with his family and the entire Forsyth County community. ____________________”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 116 (Thursday, July 16, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 116 (Thursday, July 16, 2026)] [House] [Page H4615] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING MATTHEW LEDBETTER (Mr. CARTER of Georgia asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.) Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and the legacy of Matthew Ledbetter, a longtime Forsyth County Tax Commissioner, who passed away unexpectedly on June 27 at the age of 59.”
“A lifelong Georgian and graduate of Forsyth Central High School and the University of Georgia--go Dawgs--Ledbetter dedicated nearly 21 years to public service, after having taken office in 2005 and most recently being reelected to a sixth term in 2024. Matthew will be remembered as a tireless advocate for the people of Forsyth County, known for turning the Tax Commissioner's Office into a well-oiled machine and building a legendary reputation for customer service. Friends recall his leadership, his wit, and his personality, as he never met a stranger. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Allison, and father to his sons, Evan and Ben. Georgia is grateful for Matthew's years of dedicated service, and our thoughts and prayers remain with his family and the entire Forsyth County community. ____________________”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 116 (Thursday, July 16, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 116 (Thursday, July 16, 2026)] [House] [Page H4615] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING MATTHEW LEDBETTER (Mr. CARTER of Georgia asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.) Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and the legacy of Matthew Ledbetter, a longtime Forsyth County Tax Commissioner, who passed away unexpectedly on June 27 at the age of 59.”
“Since 1858, its historic sanctuary on Mulberry Street has stood as a landmark of downtown Macon and a fixture on the National Register of Historic Places. For two centuries, First Presbyterian has served as the mother church to several congregations across middle Georgia and has equipped its members in every area of life through worship, discipleship, fellowship, and mission. Today, First Presbyterian continues to welcome more than a thousand members, carrying forward a legacy that has spanned wars, revitalization, and generations of middle Georgia families. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the leaders and congregation of First Presbyterian Church on this remarkable milestone, and I thank them for 200 years of faithful ministry to the city of Macon. [[Page H4531]] ____________________”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [House] [Pages H4530-H4531] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF MACON'S 200TH ANNIVERSARY (Mr. CARTER of Georgia asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.) Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 200th anniversary of the First Presbyterian Church of Macon, Georgia. Organized on June 18, 1826, by the Reverend Benjamin Gildersleeve and Reverend Joseph C. Stiles, the church began with just 25 founding members.”
“Since 1858, its historic sanctuary on Mulberry Street has stood as a landmark of downtown Macon and a fixture on the National Register of Historic Places. For two centuries, First Presbyterian has served as the mother church to several congregations across middle Georgia and has equipped its members in every area of life through worship, discipleship, fellowship, and mission. Today, First Presbyterian continues to welcome more than a thousand members, carrying forward a legacy that has spanned wars, revitalization, and generations of middle Georgia families. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the leaders and congregation of First Presbyterian Church on this remarkable milestone, and I thank them for 200 years of faithful ministry to the city of Macon. [[Page H4531]] ____________________”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [House] [Pages H4530-H4531] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF MACON'S 200TH ANNIVERSARY (Mr. CARTER of Georgia asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.) Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 200th anniversary of the First Presbyterian Church of Macon, Georgia. Organized on June 18, 1826, by the Reverend Benjamin Gildersleeve and Reverend Joseph C. Stiles, the church began with just 25 founding members.”
“Since 1858, its historic sanctuary on Mulberry Street has stood as a landmark of downtown Macon and a fixture on the National Register of Historic Places. For two centuries, First Presbyterian has served as the mother church to several congregations across middle Georgia and has equipped its members in every area of life through worship, discipline, fellowship, and mission. Today, First Presbyterian continues to welcome more than 1,000 members, carrying forward a legacy that has spanned wars, revitalization, and generations of middle Georgia families. I congratulate the leaders and congregation of First Presbyterian Church on this remarkable milestone, and I thank them for 200 years of faithful ministry to the city of Macon. ____________________”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)] [House] [Page H4464] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] CELEBRATING 200 YEARS OF FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF MACON (Mr. CARTER of Georgia asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.) Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 200th anniversary of the First Presbyterian Church of Macon, Georgia. Organized on June 18, 1826, by the Reverend Benjamin Gildersleeve and Reverend Joseph C. Stiles, the church began with just 25 founding members.”
“A lifelong Savannah County resident, George dedicated 49 years of his life to serving the people of Chatham County, earning a reputation as a straight-talking tough guy. He served in both the United States Navy and the Army Reserve before joining the Chatham County Sheriff's Office, where he rose to the rank of colonel over 40 years of service. In 2016, Wilcher became the oldest person elected to the sheriff's office in Chatham County history and served with distinction until his retirement in 2024. Throughout his career, John earned the Georgia Sheriffs' Association Excellence Award and was recognized for his work improving mental health services in jails and raising over $300,000 for the Georgia Sheriffs' Youth Homes. Mr. Speaker, I wish a happy birthday to Sheriff Wilcher.”
“[[Page H4416]] Whether you are picking up a souvenir before visiting Cumberland Island, enjoying an ice cream cone on a warm summer day, or finding a perfect gift for someone, Market on the Square has created lasting memories for many families. For 25 years, they have watched downtown St. Marys grow, persevered through challenges and storms, and remained a cornerstone of one of Georgia's most charming waterfront communities. Businesses like Market on the Square are the heart of Main Street America, strengthening our local economy, while preserving the character and hospitality that make St. Marys so very special. Honoring Sheriff John Wilcher Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to wish my good friend a very happy 82nd birthday, Sheriff John Wilcher, retired sheriff of Chatham County, Georgia.”
“Speaker, on behalf of Georgia's First District, I congratulate Fred Gretsch on 80 remarkable years and thank him for his contributions to American music, craftsmanship, and philanthropy. Celebrating Market on the Square's 25th Anniversary Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a true hometown treasure in Georgia's First Congressional District, Market on the Square in historic downtown St. Marys, as it celebrates 25 years of serving our community. Since opening its doors in 2002, after the restoration of the historic Hernandez grocery store building, this family-owned business has become much more than a general store.”
“Fred is the fourth generation of his family to lead Gretsch, the storied musical instrument manufacturer founded in Brooklyn in 1883 by his great-grandfather, Friedrich Gretsch, a German immigrant. In 1984, Fred and his wife, Dinah, bought the company back into family hands and built it into the world-renowned name it is today, known for that great Gretsch sound. Gretsch instruments have shaped American music played by George Harrison, Elvis Presley, Chet Atkins, and Charlie Watts, among many others. Since bringing the company home to Georgia's First District, Fred and Dinah have generously supported music education, including establishing the Fred and Dinah Gretsch School of Music at Georgia Southern University. Mr.”
“She went on to own and operate two radio stations in Clarkesville, lead adult education programs at Piedmont College, and later returned to Brenau to direct its journalism and broadcasting programs until her retirement in 2006. Clara also served as the U.S. Census Bureau administrator and correspondent for several Georgia newspapers. Her decades of work shaped generations of Georgia journalists and broadcasters. She is survived by three daughters, five grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Mr. Speaker, Georgia is grateful for Clara's remarkable legacy of service and education. Recognizing Fred Gretsch on his 80th Birthday Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Fred Gretsch, a resident of Pooler, Georgia, and to wish him a happy 80th birthday.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)] [House] [Pages H4415-H4416] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING CLARA MARTIN (Mr. Carter of Georgia was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Clara Martin, a beloved educator, broadcaster, and community leader who passed away June 21 at the age of 94. A graduate of the University of Georgia, Ms. Martin spent 14 years on the faculty at Brenau University, where she launched the school's journalism program and its first radio station.”
“Since 1858, its historic sanctuary on Mulberry Street has stood as a landmark of downtown Macon and a fixture on the National Register of Historic Places. For two centuries, First Presbyterian has served as the mother church to several congregations across middle Georgia and has equipped its members in every area of life through worship, discipline, fellowship, and mission. Today, First Presbyterian continues to welcome more than 1,000 members, carrying forward a legacy that has spanned wars, revitalization, and generations of middle Georgia families. I congratulate the leaders and congregation of First Presbyterian Church on this remarkable milestone, and I thank them for 200 years of faithful ministry to the city of Macon. ____________________”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)] [House] [Page H4464] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] CELEBRATING 200 YEARS OF FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF MACON (Mr. CARTER of Georgia asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.) Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 200th anniversary of the First Presbyterian Church of Macon, Georgia. Organized on June 18, 1826, by the Reverend Benjamin Gildersleeve and Reverend Joseph C. Stiles, the church began with just 25 founding members.”
“A lifelong Savannah County resident, George dedicated 49 years of his life to serving the people of Chatham County, earning a reputation as a straight-talking tough guy. He served in both the United States Navy and the Army Reserve before joining the Chatham County Sheriff's Office, where he rose to the rank of colonel over 40 years of service. In 2016, Wilcher became the oldest person elected to the sheriff's office in Chatham County history and served with distinction until his retirement in 2024. Throughout his career, John earned the Georgia Sheriffs' Association Excellence Award and was recognized for his work improving mental health services in jails and raising over $300,000 for the Georgia Sheriffs' Youth Homes. Mr. Speaker, I wish a happy birthday to Sheriff Wilcher.”
“[[Page H4416]] Whether you are picking up a souvenir before visiting Cumberland Island, enjoying an ice cream cone on a warm summer day, or finding a perfect gift for someone, Market on the Square has created lasting memories for many families. For 25 years, they have watched downtown St. Marys grow, persevered through challenges and storms, and remained a cornerstone of one of Georgia's most charming waterfront communities. Businesses like Market on the Square are the heart of Main Street America, strengthening our local economy, while preserving the character and hospitality that make St. Marys so very special. Honoring Sheriff John Wilcher Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to wish my good friend a very happy 82nd birthday, Sheriff John Wilcher, retired sheriff of Chatham County, Georgia.”
“Speaker, on behalf of Georgia's First District, I congratulate Fred Gretsch on 80 remarkable years and thank him for his contributions to American music, craftsmanship, and philanthropy. Celebrating Market on the Square's 25th Anniversary Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a true hometown treasure in Georgia's First Congressional District, Market on the Square in historic downtown St. Marys, as it celebrates 25 years of serving our community. Since opening its doors in 2002, after the restoration of the historic Hernandez grocery store building, this family-owned business has become much more than a general store.”
“Fred is the fourth generation of his family to lead Gretsch, the storied musical instrument manufacturer founded in Brooklyn in 1883 by his great-grandfather, Friedrich Gretsch, a German immigrant. In 1984, Fred and his wife, Dinah, bought the company back into family hands and built it into the world-renowned name it is today, known for that great Gretsch sound. Gretsch instruments have shaped American music played by George Harrison, Elvis Presley, Chet Atkins, and Charlie Watts, among many others. Since bringing the company home to Georgia's First District, Fred and Dinah have generously supported music education, including establishing the Fred and Dinah Gretsch School of Music at Georgia Southern University. Mr.”
“She went on to own and operate two radio stations in Clarkesville, lead adult education programs at Piedmont College, and later returned to Brenau to direct its journalism and broadcasting programs until her retirement in 2006. Clara also served as the U.S. Census Bureau administrator and correspondent for several Georgia newspapers. Her decades of work shaped generations of Georgia journalists and broadcasters. She is survived by three daughters, five grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Mr. Speaker, Georgia is grateful for Clara's remarkable legacy of service and education. Recognizing Fred Gretsch on his 80th Birthday Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Fred Gretsch, a resident of Pooler, Georgia, and to wish him a happy 80th birthday.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)] [House] [Pages H4415-H4416] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING CLARA MARTIN (Mr. Carter of Georgia was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Clara Martin, a beloved educator, broadcaster, and community leader who passed away June 21 at the age of 94. A graduate of the University of Georgia, Ms. Martin spent 14 years on the faculty at Brenau University, where she launched the school's journalism program and its first radio station.”
“He shared 54 cherished years of marriage with his late wife, Dorothy, building a loving family that continues their legacy of kindness. His life was marked by steadfast service to his country, community, and family. Mr. Speaker, may Lieutenant Commander Cutler's memory bring comfort to those who knew him. ____________________”
“Born in Braintree, Massachusetts, on April 14, 1928, Lieutenant Commander Cutler answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Coast Guard at 17 years old. During his distinguished 27-year military career, he rose from an enlisted man to an officer, culminating in his roles as Commander of the Coast Guard Group in Savannah and Captain of the Port. Even after retirement, his commitment to public service continued. He dedicated an additional 29 years to the Coast Guard Auxiliary, promoting maritime safety and community outreach. Outside of his formal duties, Lieutenant Commander Cutler was actively engaged in various veterans organizations, tirelessly advocating for the welfare of those who served.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025)] [House] [Page H1761] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF LIEUTENANT COMMANDER ROBERT STEWART CUTLER (Mr. CARTER of Georgia asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.) Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Lieutenant Commander Robert Stewart Cutler, who passed away peacefully on April 16, 2025, at the age of 97, in Savannah, Georgia.”
“Else's legacy, which is marked by courage, commitment, and leadership. Mr. Speaker, I join the Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia, the Savannah community, and grateful families across the State in thanking her for her service. We wish her the very best in her well-earned retirement. Her legacy will continue to inspire young girls for years to come. ____________________”
“Honoring the Leadership of CEO Sue Else Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ms. Sue Else, an extraordinary leader who is retiring as CEO of the Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia. Under Ms. Else's leadership, the Girl Scouts continue to thrive, expanding opportunities, deepening community impact, and building the next generation of women leaders. The Legacy of Leadership event that will be held in Savannah is not only a celebration of Girl Scouts' values, but a tribute to Sue's lasting impact on thousands of lives. Ms. Else's passion, integrity, and vision has steered this organization through change and growth, always placing the girls at the center of her work. As the birthplace of Girl Scouts founder Juliette Gordon Low, Savannah is the perfect setting to honor Ms.”
“His exceptional dedication to public service promoted safety, health, and a high-quality of life for his customers and his constituents. Mr. Corbitt's focus on disciplined zoning and master planning for industrial growth resulted in significant achievements for Effingham County. These achievements include setting the stage for major upgrades in recreation, contributions to transportation challenges, and commonsense solutions to resolve water and sewer debt. Mr. Corbitt's leadership and character were integral to the Effingham County Board. He encouraged the board to disagree without being disagreeable, creating an environment that promotes honesty, selfless service, and dedication to doing things the right way. Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. Corbitt for his years of selfless public service to the people of Effingham County.”
“Thomasville was honored with the Great American Main Street Award, highlighting its commitment to preserving its historic character while fostering economic growth. Thomasville is the official Rose City of Georgia, hosting annual shows and festivals, attracting visitors worldwide. The warm community spirit and welcoming atmosphere make it a standout destination in the South. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the city of Thomasville on this recognition. Recognizing Effingham County Commission Chairman Wesley Corbitt Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Effingham County Commission Chairman Wesley Corbitt, who was recently honored for his 8 years of service. During his two-term tenure as chairman, Mr. Corbitt embodied Effingham County's mission to provide through integrity, accountability, and transparency.”
“Speaker, I rise today to recognize Thomasville, Georgia, which was named one of the best small towns in the South. Thomasville is a charming town located in south Georgia, celebrated for its quaint, timeless charm, vibrant downtown, and diverse food scene. The town boasts a rich history, characterized by Victorian architecture and brick-paved streets that line specialty shops and local restaurants. Thomasville's culinary scene is praised as one of the best, specializing in southern classics and comfort foods. The Main Street program has been instrumental in revitalizing the downtown area, rehabilitating numerous buildings, and establishing over 350 new businesses since its inception.”
“With over 20 years of military service, he was awarded the National Defense Medal, the Naval Aviator Medal, and the Expert Medal for a .45- caliber pistol. In 2008, he met the love of his life, Robbie ``Honey'' Merritt. Together they traveled the world from England to France, always finding time to cheer on their beloved Tigers. His love for animals, especially the geese and ducks at Emerald Lake, earned him the nickname ``Father Goose.'' Dr. Merritt's warm smile, great sense of humor, and adventuresome spirit touched everyone who was fortunate enough to know him. Mr. Speaker, his legacy of purpose, compassion, and courage will continue to be an inspiration. My thoughts and prayers are with Dr. Merritt's loved ones during this most difficult time. Recognizing Thomasville, Georgia Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025)] [House] [Page H1738] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE OF THOMAS BURTON MERRITT (Mr. Carter of Georgia was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the extraordinary life of Thomas Burton Merritt, a veteran, a physician, and beloved member of his community. Born on May 11, 1934, Thomas Merritt was a proud graduate of Auburn University, where he was a strong contributor to the Naval ROTC program and track team. After graduating, he joined the Navy, completed his medical degree and served with distinction as both a naval aviator and a psychiatrist.”
“He shared 54 cherished years of marriage with his late wife, Dorothy, building a loving family that continues their legacy of kindness. His life was marked by steadfast service to his country, community, and family. Mr. Speaker, may Lieutenant Commander Cutler's memory bring comfort to those who knew him. ____________________”
“Born in Braintree, Massachusetts, on April 14, 1928, Lieutenant Commander Cutler answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Coast Guard at 17 years old. During his distinguished 27-year military career, he rose from an enlisted man to an officer, culminating in his roles as Commander of the Coast Guard Group in Savannah and Captain of the Port. Even after retirement, his commitment to public service continued. He dedicated an additional 29 years to the Coast Guard Auxiliary, promoting maritime safety and community outreach. Outside of his formal duties, Lieutenant Commander Cutler was actively engaged in various veterans organizations, tirelessly advocating for the welfare of those who served.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025)] [House] [Page H1761] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF LIEUTENANT COMMANDER ROBERT STEWART CUTLER (Mr. CARTER of Georgia asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.) Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Lieutenant Commander Robert Stewart Cutler, who passed away peacefully on April 16, 2025, at the age of 97, in Savannah, Georgia.”
“Else's legacy, which is marked by courage, commitment, and leadership. Mr. Speaker, I join the Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia, the Savannah community, and grateful families across the State in thanking her for her service. We wish her the very best in her well-earned retirement. Her legacy will continue to inspire young girls for years to come. ____________________”
“Honoring the Leadership of CEO Sue Else Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ms. Sue Else, an extraordinary leader who is retiring as CEO of the Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia. Under Ms. Else's leadership, the Girl Scouts continue to thrive, expanding opportunities, deepening community impact, and building the next generation of women leaders. The Legacy of Leadership event that will be held in Savannah is not only a celebration of Girl Scouts' values, but a tribute to Sue's lasting impact on thousands of lives. Ms. Else's passion, integrity, and vision has steered this organization through change and growth, always placing the girls at the center of her work. As the birthplace of Girl Scouts founder Juliette Gordon Low, Savannah is the perfect setting to honor Ms.”
“His exceptional dedication to public service promoted safety, health, and a high-quality of life for his customers and his constituents. Mr. Corbitt's focus on disciplined zoning and master planning for industrial growth resulted in significant achievements for Effingham County. These achievements include setting the stage for major upgrades in recreation, contributions to transportation challenges, and commonsense solutions to resolve water and sewer debt. Mr. Corbitt's leadership and character were integral to the Effingham County Board. He encouraged the board to disagree without being disagreeable, creating an environment that promotes honesty, selfless service, and dedication to doing things the right way. Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. Corbitt for his years of selfless public service to the people of Effingham County.”
“Thomasville was honored with the Great American Main Street Award, highlighting its commitment to preserving its historic character while fostering economic growth. Thomasville is the official Rose City of Georgia, hosting annual shows and festivals, attracting visitors worldwide. The warm community spirit and welcoming atmosphere make it a standout destination in the South. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the city of Thomasville on this recognition. Recognizing Effingham County Commission Chairman Wesley Corbitt Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Effingham County Commission Chairman Wesley Corbitt, who was recently honored for his 8 years of service. During his two-term tenure as chairman, Mr. Corbitt embodied Effingham County's mission to provide through integrity, accountability, and transparency.”
“Speaker, I rise today to recognize Thomasville, Georgia, which was named one of the best small towns in the South. Thomasville is a charming town located in south Georgia, celebrated for its quaint, timeless charm, vibrant downtown, and diverse food scene. The town boasts a rich history, characterized by Victorian architecture and brick-paved streets that line specialty shops and local restaurants. Thomasville's culinary scene is praised as one of the best, specializing in southern classics and comfort foods. The Main Street program has been instrumental in revitalizing the downtown area, rehabilitating numerous buildings, and establishing over 350 new businesses since its inception.”