Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, the National Society of High School Scholars announced that LaMyah Boone has been selected to join the prestigious organization.

Boone is a sophomore at KIPP Gaston College Preparatory. She is a member of her school's yearbook committee and the Dance Girls in the Panthers Marching Band.

Boone is the daughter of Kennedy and LaToya Boone. LaMyah is now a member of an exclusive community of scholars, a community that represents the bright future of eastern North Carolina.

Congratulations to LaMyah.

We look forward to seeing what the future has for her next.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the memory of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, a courageous 23-year-old, American-Israeli who was executed by Hamas terrorists.

Hersh was abducted at the Nova Music Festival on October 7. In the face of unimaginable terror, Hersh's arm was blown off by a grenade. His senseless murder, along with five others discovered on September 1, is a stark reminder of all the innocent civilians killed. It is also a reminder of the many of whom remain held hostage, enduring unimaginable suffering.

To Hersh's parents Jon and Rachel we extend our deepest sympathies. We stand with you.

May Hersh's memory be a blessing.

Congress, the administration, and the international community must intensify efforts to secure the immediate release of all hostages and hold accountable those responsible for these egregious acts.

Bring them home now.

abraham accords

Mr. Speaker, we honor the transformative power of diplomacy. Four years ago, the Abraham Accords opened the door to a new era of peace, bringing together Israel, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, and later Morocco in an unprecedented step toward stability in the Middle East.

The signing of the Abraham Accords, a historic moment, reminds us that even in the face of deep division, it is possible to find common ground.

Israel, a beacon of democracy in a region too often defined by conflict, has long been a vital partner in our pursuit of shared security and prosperity.

The Abraham Accords highlight not only Israel's crucial role in securing its own future, but its commitment to building enduring alliances that benefit the global community.

Yet our work is far from over. We must remain unwavering in our commitment to support Israel and all partners who extend the hand of peace.

Let us continue building a world where dignity, security, and freedom are the rights of all.

Mr. Speaker, as a dedicated member of the United States House Armed Services Committee, a 1994 graduate of the United States Air Force Academy, and a proud United States Air Force veteran, I rise today to celebrate the 77th birthday of the United States Air Force.

The United States Air Force was officially established on September 18, 1947, and has since proven to be the best in the world.

The United States Air Force has played an essential and unwavering role in defending our Nation's security and honor, ensuring the safety and freedom of our citizens.

To all those who have served and those who are currently serving in the United States Air Force, to you and your family, I say thank you for your service to our country.

``Fly-Fight-Win.''

Madam Speaker, fans were on the edge of their seats as the Pitt County Girls Softball League made history by winning the Little League World Series.

With exemplary skill and talent, they defeated Team Louisiana Southwest 1-0. They had a flawless tournament, and no one scored against them. They outscored their opponents by a whopping combined score of 44-0.

I thank the players, coaches, family, fans, and community for rallying in support of this remarkable and amazing team. Eastern North Carolina is proud to celebrate this victory.

The players reflect the best of America, and they should be extremely proud knowing they are the best in the world.

Mr. Speaker, Tropical Storm Debby ripped through eastern North Carolina this past month.

Less than 3 weeks before students were due to return from summer break, Springfield Middle School and Lucama, North Carolina, sustained severe damage to the sixth and seventh grade hallways resulting from a tornado causing administrators to scramble.

We visited the school. Despite the fierce wind removing the roof and debris everywhere, American flags mounted in the classrooms continue to fly.

Superintendent Dr. Lane Mills and the school board are to be commended for efforts to return students back to their school.

We give a special shoutout to Principal Kelly Thomas, teachers, educational support professionals, and the community for so many generous contributions.

What a great display of resilience, and I wish the Wildcats a great school year.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to commemorate a remarkable woman, Cassie Mae Smith, a Battleboro, North Carolina, resident, and my State of the Union guest this year whose beautiful life spanned 109 years.

On August 10, she passed at her home, surrounded by family and friends. She was a beloved figure, affectionately called Ma Cassie by her neighbors and friends.

She was born in 1914, before women had the right to vote. Once Ma Cassie was able to exercise her right to vote, she voted in every election she could and began advocating for others to do the same.

In March, my office helped her achieve two items on her bucket list. She had never met a President or flown on an airplane. She flew to our Nation's Capital for the State of the Union. Afterward, she met President Joe Biden.

While here, I am grateful for so many colleagues from across the country and from across the aisle for taking the time to speak with her.

I am also grateful for President Biden spending time talking with her. If not the oldest, she had to be one of the oldest ever to attend the State of the Union Address. It meant a lot to her, and she was indeed grateful.

She loved our country, the United States of America. Her story of resilience and grace has touched the lives of many, including my own. Her journey has inspired us all, from working on a farm in North Carolina to traveling for the first time at 109 on an airplane to our Nation's Capital.

For those who knew her, Ms. Cassie Smith was also a woman of unwavering faith. She loved the Lord. She loved her church, Pittman Grove Baptist Church, and Pastor Thomas Ray Green and his wife, Sharon, who traveled with her for the State of the Union.

In fact, after the State of the Union, she made clear to me, she said: ``I know my pastor prays for me.'' Frank Smith, her son, said his mother had a deep spiritual connection with God, always looking up when she prayed. He once asked: ``Momma, who are you talking to?'' She said: ``I am talking to the Lord.''

I also recognize Faye, Frank's wife and Ms. Cassie's caregiver, and all her caregivers.

According to her son, the family had planned to celebrate Ma Cassie's 110th birthday this October with a trip to the mountains, the last item that she had on the bucket list.

Well, she didn't make it to the mountains. However, Frank, her son, said it best: ``God has said, I am going to take her, perhaps, to the mountain top.''

We will forever hold her legacy in our hearts, and my deepest condolences go to her family and the Battleboro community.

Mr. Speaker, the National Society of High School Scholars announced Emmai Pierce of Roanoke Rapids' selection to join the esteemed organization.

Pierce is a rising senior at Halifax County Early College where his weighted cumulative grade point average is over 4.0.

Over the past summer, he interned in the technology services department of Halifax County Schools and in the Halifax School District C Teamship.

The National Society of High School Scholars is a prestigious honor society that recognizes students with outstanding leadership skills, community service, and academic achievement.

Emmai is now a member of a unique community of scholars, a community that represents the bright future even of eastern North Carolina.

Congratulations to Emmai. It is a well-deserved recognition.

Mr. Speaker, let me tell you what the buzz is about in Wilson, North Carolina. Thomas Batts, a commercial horticulture agent with the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service in Wilson County was honored as the 2024 North Carolina State Cooperative Extension Agent of the Year in recognition of his service to agriculture and beekeepers.

Thomas is known for his hands-on and engaging horticulture programming, which includes beekeeping school and commercial vegetable production workshops. Thomas was instrumental in forming the Wilson County Beekeepers Association, which now has over 125 members.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Thomas on this well-deserved award. His hard work is a testament to his care for eastern North Carolina.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize an eastern North Carolina native and American tennis superstar, Tommy Paul.

Raised in Greenville, North Carolina, Tommy began his professional tennis career after graduating from J.H. Rose High School at 18 years old.

Nearly a decade later, Tommy will represent the United States at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Earlier, Tommy became the highest ranked American tennis professional, reaching a career-high world tour ranking number of 12. In June, he won his biggest title ever at the Queen's Club in London and followed it up with a quarterfinal finish in Wimbledon.

As the Olympics get underway, we will all enthusiastically cheer for Tommy as he goes for gold. With the full support of eastern North Carolina, we will be hearing, ``Game, set, match, Paul,'' very soon.

Mr. Speaker, eastern North Carolina communities face the greatest healthcare disparities of any area in our State. I am super excited to share that the Rural Health Group welcomed the dynamic inaugural class of medical residents to Roanoke Rapids, including Onyenyechi Joy Onyeanuna, Tanweer Hoosen, and Tochukwu Okafor.

Such pioneers will pave the way for a future filled with improved health outcomes for our community. Their decision to join this incredible program is a testament to their dedication and passion to serving those most in need. Their class will forever hold a special place in Roanoke Rapids' history. We are incredibly grateful for their commitment and looking forward to seeing their positive impact.

Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize Dr. Angela Richardson. Dr. Richardson has shattered gigantic barriers by becoming the first African-American woman to achieve the rank of lieutenant at the Rocky Mount Police Department.

Her remarkable promotion to this historic position is a testament to her exceptional dedication in the field of law enforcement.

Lieutenant Richardson has a wealth of experience exceeding 30 years in law enforcement. She has a distinguished Ph.D. in public safety.

Lieutenant Richardson is a true trailblazer for law enforcement personnel. She stands as a beacon of inspiration for little girls in eastern North Carolina and beyond who may aspire to protect and serve.

Congrats, Lieutenant Richardson, and Sheldon, her husband, and thanks to the Rocky Mount Police Department for their dedication to public safety.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate the three winners of North Carolina's First Congressional District Art Competition.

Kayla Lassiter, a Bertie High School senior, won first place with her piece, Rainbow-Hued. Lassiter brilliantly used color and digital design.

I had the distinct honor of meeting her and her mother right here in our Nation's Capitol where her artwork will remain on display for thousands of visitors to see.

Nathan Varney, a J.H. Rose High School senior, was a runner-up with his piece, Bamboo Forester.

I also proudly recognize Jocelyn Hernandez Jimenes, a North Edgecombe High School student who earned third place with her piece, The Mythical Bird.

Clearly, we have incredible, creative, talented artists in eastern North Carolina. I now commend all of this year's participants.

Mr. Speaker, Elizabeth City State University, located in northeastern North Carolina, holds a significant place among historically Black colleges and universities.

Despite its prestigious status, the institution faced grave concerns some years ago. Discussions arose within the North Carolina General Assembly regarding the potential closure of the university, which sparked a spirited response from dedicated alums and community leaders, who rallied to keep the institution open.

Their unwavering support and dedication played a crucial role in the survival of the university. As a result of their impassioned support, State leaders ultimately committed to ensuring the university's continued existence. However, this commitment came with the expectation of formulating a comprehensive plan to invigorate and fortify the institution.

It became evident that the university would need a committed and visionary education leader, a unifying figure, and a skilled team builder to orchestrate this revitalization. During this critical phase, Dr. Karrie Dixon emerged as that figure.

Assuming the role of chancellor, Dr. Dixon charted a new course for the university. Her transformative initiatives played a significant role in the university's resurgence. Notably, her leadership saw the establishment of a leading aviation sciences program at ECSU, the State's sole program.

Furthermore, Dr. Dixon's unwavering drive and commitment inspired students to enroll and remain at Elizabeth City State University, breathing new life into the institution. Her leadership saved the university and attracted a new generation of students, promising a brighter future in northeastern North Carolina.

The impact of Chancellor Dixon's leadership became evident as, over 6 years, she laid the foundation for a promising future for this esteemed institution. Her astute leadership and unwavering dedication solidified her as the right leader for the university during a critical season of change and growth.

As Chancellor Dixon has now assumed the reins at North Carolina Central University, bringing her closer to her family, she left a remarkable leadership and transformation legacy at Elizabeth City State University.

Viking pride. Viking pride. Viking pride.

Acknowledging her extraordinary contributions, I gladly join the community and offer my heartfelt best wishes to Dr. Dixon as she has transitioned from leading the Vikings into her new role at the helm of the Eagles.

I have every confidence she will live up to the motto: Truth and Service. The drumline helped provide an incredible welcome. Eagle pride, amplified.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to highlight the exceptional apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs Nash Community College offers.

The STEPS4GROWTH Pre-Apprenticeship is an incredible opportunity for individuals interested in advanced manufacturing or clean energy vehicles.

Imagine not just learning but actively engaging with industry- experienced instructors, gaining hands-on experience, and working on real projects that can kickstart a career.

These programs don't just benefit students. Local organizations can also boost their productivity and profitability by participating.

It is an exciting chance for students to dive into their passions and for local communities to nurture the next generation of talented workforce-ready individuals. We have seen the benefits and the results across the region at places like OIC.

I commend Nash Community College for its commitment to keeping the American Dream within reach for eastern North Carolinians.

Madam Speaker, I rise to honor the remarkable life and enduring legacy of Rosanell Eaton. She achieved incredible feats, overcoming obstacles and championing voting rights.

Mother Eaton was a trailblazing figure in Franklin County where she was the first African American to register and vote. She rode 8 miles to Louisburg at the age of 21 on a mule to pass a literacy test.

Her work placed her on the State and national stage with her daughter, Armenta, by her side until her passing at 97 years old. She wore many hats and had an infectious smile and loved her church, her faith.

Recently, Michael and Deborah Liter, church members, renovated the building that once served as the local board of elections office at 217 Court Street and named it in her honor.

Mother Eaton's impact was felt far and wide, and she still inspires us. While at the building dedication, the sky became overcast, but the Sun reappeared, and our angel shone upon us.