Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I honor a remarkable public servant and friend, Efton Sager.

Efton served in the United States Air Force, retiring as a master sergeant. His commitment to our community was evident in all the active roles he played, including serving on the Wayne County Board of Commissioners. When he served in the North Carolina House of Representatives, we took great pride in representing Wayne County together.

Throughout the years, we kept in touch, and there were many cherished memories. For one, I recall how heartbroken Efton was when his beloved wife, Delores, passed after 68 years of marriage. He said to me: ``I hope God doesn't keep me here for too many years without her.'' It brings comfort believing they are together again.

Efton passed peacefully on May 27. Today would have marked his 92nd birthday.

I extend my heartfelt condolences to Debra, David, and the family as we honor Efton's life and lasting impact.

Madam Speaker, I honor the remarkable life of Bronis Avent, an American hero. He bravely served in World War II and over the course of two other conflicts.

At 101 years old, I had the privilege of meeting him and expressing my gratitude for his incredible military service. His daughter shared that her father had missed many milestones due to his overseas military service and that day was the first time she witnessed him being publicly honored.

It is with a heavy heart that I share the news that just hours later Mr. Avent passed away peacefully, surrounded by his beloved family. My thoughts and prayers are with: his children, Ann, Calvin, and Bronis Jr.; his special cousin Dr. John Avent; and his many grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and great-great-grandchildren.

Meeting him was a true honor, and being able to pay tribute to his legacy and present him with the American flag will remain a cherished memory forever.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the extraordinary resilience of the students and educators of Springfield Middle School in Lucama, North Carolina.

At the beginning of the school year, a tornado tore through the community, causing significant damage to the school.

I recall walking through classrooms. Desks were all over the place. The roof was removed, gone, ripped apart. Yet, the American flag continued to stand.

Early decisions had to be made. One, in particular, was whether the students would even be able to stay at the school or be separated and go to other schools. They insisted to stay together.

As the school year now comes to an end, I made another visit to the school. The students at Springfield Middle School had an incredible school year. They were able to do this only because so many came together to make it happen.

Principal Kelly Thomas said that what could have broken them instead brought them closer together.

To the educators, staff, and the greater Lucama community, their dedication is a shining example of the best of us and who we are as Americans.

The students, those Wild Cats, are a true inspiration.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the exceptional sheriffs of North Carolina's First Congressional District.

It was a privilege to engage with such dedicated leaders as we addressed the pressing issues facing eastern North Carolina.

Our discussions on automatic license plate recognition cameras and innovative strategies for recruitment and retention in rural communities were both insightful and inspiring.

We are confronted with significant challenges, including the threat of illegal drugs, outdated detention centers, and issues facing juveniles.

The sheriffs underscored the importance of regional collaboration, emphasizing how sharing resources, intelligence, and support across county lines can enhance community safety.

I extend my sincere gratitude to Sheriff Curtis Brame of Vance County, Sheriff Robert Fountain, Jr., of Granville County, Sheriff John Branche of Warren County, and Sheriff Cleveland Atkinson, Jr., of Edgecombe County for their participation in our inaugural district meeting.

I also acknowledge the invaluable leadership and partnership of all our sheriffs.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the amazing James Brown III of Wilson, North Carolina, for not just one but two remarkable achievements.

James is graduating as the valedictorian of his class at Wilson Preparatory Academy, and if that is not enough, he is doing so with perfect attendance that dates all the way back to kindergarten--yes, kindergarten.

Using his words, James said: ``I promised my grandmother that I would do well in school, and that is what I am going to do.''

His late grandmother, Annie Pitt, would be so proud of James, as we all are.

I thank James for keeping his promise to his grandma. He has earned the title of the hardest working student in eastern North Carolina's class of 2025.

I congratulate the entire class.

As I think about your future, ``I feel good.'' Now, James, keep making Grandma Annie proud.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to proudly recognize the class of 2025 enlistees of our armed services who participated in the Our Community Salutes ceremony at Elizabeth City State University.

It was a true privilege to meet 27 talented young men and women from northeastern North Carolina and Virginia, all of whom have made the commendable decision to serve our Nation.

Our Community Salutes deserves praise for including northeastern North Carolina in their national graduation season tour, and I commend Dr. Ken Hartman for founding this exceptional program.

I extend special thanks to Ryan Bauman for expertly organizing this event, Lieutenant Commander Charles Michael Wise for prayer, and Rear Admiral John Vann of the United States Coast Guard for his motivating words.

It was an honor to present each enlistee with a copy of the United States Constitution, an important document they have sworn to uphold.

Mr. Speaker, there was standing room only at Wilson Community College in Wilson, North Carolina. It was so touching. Residents and family came from far and near in support of the Fitch family in renaming the Wilson Post Office in commemoration of Mr. Milton F. Fitch, Sr.

Mr. Fitch was not just one of the first African-American mail carriers. He was an eastern North Carolina icon and a great American.

He served our country honorably in World War II, returning home to raise his family and make a difference in his community. Indeed, he did exactly that.

He and his wife, Cora, embedded a legacy of service into their children, Jerry, Toby, Patricia, Christine, and Ernestine.

We are grateful to the U.S. Postal Service for working with us, the North Carolina delegation, and all of the communities who came out in support.

Eastern North Carolina and America are better because of Milton F. Fitch, Sr. His name, now etched in the Wilson community, will inspire all who enter the post office to realize the endless possibilities that await us in eastern North Carolina.

Mr. Speaker, there is a lot of energy and excitement in Wayne County, North Carolina, as we celebrate a significant economic investment. Prolec GE Waukesha, Incorporated, announced a $140 million investment which will strengthen eastern North Carolina's economy and enhance our national energy infrastructure.

The investment aims to double the production of medium power transformers and address the urgent needs of our country's electric grid. The construction of a new state-of-the-art facility will create over 330 new jobs in various fields, from engineering to production.

Young people and professionals are craving these opportunities in the East and good-paying jobs. These jobs will average nearly $72,000 a year.

Congratulations to Prolec GE Waukesha, Incorporated. I am so excited about our energy future.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to commemorate the 16th anniversary of the Tamil genocide in Sri Lanka.

Today and every day, we stand in unity with the Eelam Tamil community. Survivors and their families are enduring ongoing struggles and oppression while they seek justice and recognition for their suffering from the Sri Lankan Government.

We must shine a light on the Tamil people and what they have endured. We must advocate for a peaceful resolution that respects the rights and dignity of all. We must ensure that the atrocities, like those that have happened with the Tamil genocide, never happen again.

The Tamil community's resilience in the face of adversity is a testament to their unwavering spirit and determination for justice.

Let us all stand together with the Eelam Tamils.

Mr. Speaker, I rise during National Police Week to honor the brave men and women in law enforcement who served across eastern North Carolina and our Nation.

From Granville County to Currituck County, Northampton County to Lenoir County and everywhere in between, our officers protect our families and communities daily.

They are there during natural disasters. They are taking a bite out of crime. They keep us safe at our favorite local festivals and parades.

Mr. Speaker, I acknowledge the Elizabeth City State University Police Department for working so hard to keep our students safe. I recognize our K-9s.

We must also pause to remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Their courage reminds us of the true cost of public safety, and their memories live on in the communities they serve so faithfully.

We are forever grateful to every officer and their families for their service, sacrifice, and strength.

May God watch over them as they stand guard watching over us.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize National Salvation Army Week and to honor an organization that has been a pillar of support and hope in communities all across this country.

Since its founding in 1865, the Salvation Army has provided food, shelter, and hope to millions, responding to disasters, helping individuals overcome addiction, and supported families in times of crisis. The Salvation Army is a beacon of hope across this Nation.

H.R. 404 recognizes and celebrates National Salvation Army Week and also commends the Red Kettle Campaign and honors the countless volunteers, donors, and officers who make the Salvation Army's mission possible.

I have seen their impact firsthand in eastern North Carolina, where they bring disaster relief, dignity, and compassion to those who need it most.

Mr. Speaker, I offer my heartfelt thanks and commit to continuing our support. I thank the Salvation Army for lifting our communities daily and doing the most good.

Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize Mamie Hoffer and Jason Futrell of Hoffer Flow Controls in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, the United States Small Business Administration's Small Business Persons of the Year for North Carolina.

During National Small Business Week, we are honored to recognize incredible entrepreneurs such as Mamie and Jason, whose company, Hoffer Flow Controls, exemplifies innovation and resilience, demonstrating positive economic impact in an economically distressed region.

Hoffer Flow Controls, a world-class manufacturer of industrial turbine flow meters for measuring liquids and gases, has been a pillar for northeastern North Carolina for more than 50 years. Their flow control solutions are used in industries like aerospace, defense, power, cryogenics, and more.

Hoffer Flow's success is a testament to what small businesses can achieve with vision, hard work, and a commitment to excellence.

Madam Speaker, Mamie and Jason are commended for their well-deserved honor and for perfecting the art of measurement.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life and legacy of Troy Wendell Pate, Jr., of Goldsboro, North Carolina, who passed at the age of 94.

Mr. Pate was a United States Navy veteran of the Korean war, a lifelong banker, and a dedicated community servant.

After a distinguished career as the CEO of East Coast Savings Bank, he devoted his time to enhancing education, fostering economic development, and strengthening military relations in Wayne County. He served as the trustee and the chair at East Carolina University and was instrumental in helping to bring the Brody School of Medicine into the East.

Mr. Pate also worked tirelessly to support Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, founding the Seymour Support Group and advising Air Force leadership at the highest levels. His many honors include the Air Force Distinguished Public Service award and The Order of the Long Leaf Pine.

Troy Pate's life exemplifies service, leadership, and a deep love for eastern North Carolina and our country.

Mr. Speaker, I extend my deepest condolences to his beloved wife, Joyce, and the Pate family.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Wings Over Wayne Air Show, hosted at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in Goldsboro, North Carolina.

It was an incredible event that showcased the pride, professionalism, and precision of our Air Force, which brought our community together on Military Appreciation Day.

Seymour Johnson is a pillar in our community that drives our local economy and brings us pride and joy. The base reflects the deep bond between servicemembers and the people of eastern North Carolina.

With the roaring of the Thunderbirds, Wings Over Wayne celebrated freedom, patriotism, and community. I thank the men and women who continue to serve our country. They make us extremely proud.

Mr. Speaker, no one does barbecue like

eastern North Carolina, and I am so proud to share some mouthwatering news.

The BBQ Fest on the Neuse, held in Kinston, North Carolina, has set a new world record. The Guinness World Record for the number of barbecue sandwiches sold in an 8-hour period is now 4,775.

I was proud to attend this year's festival. The festival is more than just delicious food. It is a showcase of community, local businesses, music, and the proud spirit of eastern North Carolina. It highlights everything that makes Kinston and Lenoir County such a special place.

We take great pride in being home of such rich tradition.

Mr. Speaker, there is no better barbecue on Earth than eastern North Carolina.