Congratulating Greg Parker, Retailer Executive of the Year

Floor Speech

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Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Greg Parker on being named 2025 Retailer Executive of the Year by Convenience Store News.

Greg, the founder and CEO of Parker's Kitchen, has grown his business from one store in 1976 to his 100th in a grand opening in April of 2025.

His brand has become a role model in business, being synonymously described as clean, friendly, profitable, and philanthropic. Greg exhibits the best characteristics of this award. He is a leader. He positively impacts his community, and he strives for business excellence.

He is often recognized for his significant philanthropic efforts, recently donating $20 million to the Savannah Community Foundation. This generous donation is just one of many throughout his successful career.

Mr. Speaker, the First District of Georgia appreciates Greg and his many years of friendship. Savannah: Our Nation's Top Honeymoon Destination

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Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Savannah's recent distinction as one of the Nation's top honeymoon destinations. The city was ranked sixth overall, accompanied by renowned areas such as Palm Springs, Napa Valley, and Miami.

Savannah's downtown offers visitors a plethora of experiences. The Savannah Historic District offers preserved architecture and museums for history enthusiasts. Broughton Street offers a wide range of shopping options, featuring a mix of small, local shops and larger commercial retailers.

If visitors prefer a more relaxing experience, Tybee Island is just 15 minutes away. On Tybee Island, vacationers can enjoy the serene beaches, outdoor activities, and coastal relaxation.

Savannah's distinctive blend of cultural richness and coastal beauty makes it an ideal destination for newlyweds. Honoring Robert Headley

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Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Robert Headley, for receiving the Student Organization Leader of the Year Award at Georgia Southern University.

This award is presented annually to a student who demonstrates exceptional leadership, embodies their organization's values, and positively impacts student life on campus.

As president of the Interfraternity Council during the 2024-2025 academic year, he played an essential role in advancing Greek life and fostering collaboration among Greek organizations. Robert is an outstanding young man who has consistently excelled in all of the mentioned areas.

I congratulate Robert on this remarkable achievement. I wish him the best in his future endeavors. Honoring Nicholas Pappas

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Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the late Nicholas Pappas, a distinguished gentleman who devoted more than 30 years to the restaurant scene in Savannah, Georgia.

As a longtime owner of the Olympia Cafe, he united locals and tourists with his cherished recipes, exceptional culinary skills, and warm personality. Under his leadership, the restaurant gained significant acclaim, being ranked in the top 10 percent of restaurants worldwide by Tripadvisor in 2024.

Mr. Pappas was more than just a restaurant owner. He was a loving father and a grandfather, a mentor and a role model, and an exemplary civil servant. His legacy will live on through Olympia Cafe, where countless memories and joy were brought to many. He set a superb example for others to follow through his welcoming manner and unwavering work ethic.

Today, we celebrate Nicholas Pappas' life. The community is strengthened in the one-of-a-kind service that he provided to the people of Savannah.

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