Recognizing Riverview Hotel's 110th Anniversary

Floor Speech

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Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 110th anniversary of the Riverview Hotel in St. Marys, Georgia, one of our State's most cherished historic landmarks.

Built in 1916, the Riverview Hotel rests on the banks of the St. Marys River and has welcomed travelers and locals for more than a century. For generations, this hotel has offered hospitality and a sense of belonging to visitors from near and far. It has welcomed notable guests over the decades and stood as a testament to seaside Georgia's heritage.

The spirit of Riverview reflects the heart of St. Marys. Its veranda overlooking the river and its proximity to the ferry for Cumberland Island connects visitors with the history and natural beauty of our coastal region.

Today, we honor the Riverview Hotel for preserving tradition, welcoming families and travelers, and contributing to the vibrant life of southeast Georgia for 110 years.

Recognizing the 50th Anniversary of Gallery 209 in Savannah

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Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Gallery 209, located at 209 East River Street in Savannah, on celebrating 50 years at its historic location.

Founded in February 1975 by a group of Savannah artists, Gallery 209 has remained a member-driven space where artists come together to sell their work, share resources, and support one another.

For five decades, it has been a cornerstone of Savannah's artistic community and a vital part of River Street's identity. The gallery has showcased the work of countless local artists, offering visitors ceramics, fiber art, jewelry, paintings, photography, woodworking, and other handcrafted pieces that reflect the creative spirit of our region.

Artists like Randee Powell and Sharon Saseen speak to the sense of family and shared purpose that defines Gallery 209.

As Savannah continues to grow, Gallery 209 stands as a reminder that local art and culture remain essential to our community. I commend its artists for sustaining this tradition and wish them continued success for generations to come. Recognizing Swann Seiler

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Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Swann Seiler, named the 2026 Woman of the Year by the United Way of the Coastal Empire at the annual Women Who Rule event in Savannah, Georgia.

Ms. Seiler's leadership, service, and commitment to community reflect the very best of civic engagement and personal dedication. A graduate of the University of Georgia's Henry W. Grady School of Journalism, Ms. Seiler built a distinguished career in corporate communications and public affairs before retiring.

Ms. Seiler served Georgia Power and contributed her talents to community boards and nonprofit organizations throughout the region. Ms. Seiler's service includes leadership roles with cultural institutions, historic preservation efforts, education foundations, and civic organizations that strengthen families and neighborhoods across the Coastal Empire. She has lifted up countless causes and encouraged others to give back in meaningful ways.

The Women Who Rule campaign supports reliable transportation for women and caregivers, helping them to get to work, school, and medical appointments. Ms. Seiler's example inspires us to build stronger communities through service. I congratulate Swann. Recognizing Special Agent Joe Cephus

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Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Special Agent Joe Cephus of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, who was honored by the Evans County Sheriff's Office with the 2025 Support Officer of the Year Award.

Special Agent Cephus has served his community and State with integrity and courage. His work alongside local law enforcement in Evans County demonstrated steadfast support during critical investigations and helped to strengthen the bond between State and local public safety partners. His commitment to protecting families and upholding the rule of law reflects a deep sense of duty to his neighbors and fellow Georgians.

The Support Officer of the Year Award is given to individuals whose actions have gone above and beyond their normal responsibilities to help keep the community safe.

By stepping forward in challenging circumstances and offering assistance without hesitation, Special Agent Cephus embodies what it means to serve with professionalism and care.

Today, we thank Special Agent Joe Cephus for his service, partnership, and example of servant leadership in law enforcement.

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