Recognizing Presidential Citizens Medal Recipient Paula Wallace

Floor Speech

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Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the achievement of Paula Wallace, who was awarded the Presidential Citizens Medal this month.

Paula Wallace dreamed of a school that would transform how we think about public education. By establishing the esteemed Savannah College of Art and Design and serving as its president, Ms. Wallace has fulfilled this dream and guided thousands of students into creative industries.

The Presidential Citizens Medal was awarded to 20 recipients who performed exemplary deeds of service for their country or fellow citizens. Recipients of the Presidential Citizens Medal are characterized by their common decency and commitment to serving others, which Ms. Wallace has demonstrated by being a lifelong educator and trailblazer of the arts.

Ms. Wallace was selected to be among the distinguished group honored at the White House because her dedication and vision have made our Nation and Georgia's First Congressional District better.

We congratulate Ms. Wallace on this honorable achievement and recognition for all of her hard work. On a personal note, we thank her for everything she has done for my hometown of Savannah, Georgia. I continue to say that SCAD transformed Savannah, Georgia. Honoring Reverend Wayne Racz

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Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Reverend Wayne Racz whose retirement marks the culmination of over 25 years of faithful service in the ministry.

Throughout his career, Reverend Racz has been a guiding light in the United Methodist Church, serving congregations across south Georgia.

Most recently, he served as pastor at St. Simons Island United Methodist Church and St. Luke in Savannah where he strengthened their mission and built meaningful connections within their communities.

In addition to his role as pastor, Reverend Racz served in leadership positions within the United Methodist Church's connectional ministries, leaving an unforgettable impact on its missions and outreach.

His 9 years at Epworth stand out as a testament to his devotion, during which he touched countless lives and expanded God's kingdom.

As he retires to spend more time with his family and friends, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for his remarkable service. While he steps away from his former roles, his legacy will endure as an ambassador of faith and compassion. Recognizing the Achievement of the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force

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Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the achievement of the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force which has been named best museum in Georgia Business Journal's 2024 Best of Georgia awards.

The museum exists to educate visitors about the courage, character, valor, and patriotism of the brave individuals who fought in the largest air armada in history, the Eighth Air Force.

The museum preserves the stories of these individuals using exhibits, archival material, and artifacts including a fully restored B-17 Flying Fortress and an immersive simulated bombing experience.

The Georgia Business Journal conducts the Best of Georgia awards every year, allowing the public to vote for their favorite organizations across a variety of industries in the State.

In 2024, the people of Georgia selected the Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force to be awarded this prestigious honor to celebrate its excellence and recognize its dedication to preserving the history and legacy of the Eighth Air Force.

Selected out of over 30 contenders, the award recognizes the museum's significant role in education, preservation, and community engagement.

Congratulations to the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air on this honorable achievement.

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