Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, the current drought situation has reached a critical point. It is hitting hard, and many farmers have told me they have never seen anything like this in a lifetime.

According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 16 counties in North Carolina's First Congressional District are currently at a D1 drought level, and three are at a D2.

I have witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of this drought on crops such as withered cornfields and parched tobacco plants.

Every State from Georgia to Maryland faces similar damaging drought levels. Our farmers have had enough to deal with, and a drought makes everything more challenging.

It also affects local businesses that rely on the agriculture industry, creating a ripple effect across many rural communities.

Today I sent a letter to Secretary Vilsack calling for an immediate disaster designation. I strongly urge the USDA to get Federal assistance out the door.

Madam Speaker, I rise to honor Maryland and Laura Rook whose love has become a beacon of enduring commitment.

As they are celebrating their remarkable 76th wedding anniversary, we are reminded of the strength of their marriage that began on May 8, 1948.

With family and community members at their side, we joyously recognized the Rooks' wedding anniversary during the town of Gaston's Juneteenth holiday celebration at the Lake Gaston Community Center.

Their marriage is not just a personal milestone but a symbol of the strength of this community and a shining example of the power of love for the American people.

As they continue on this extraordinary journey together, I extend my heartfelt prayers and continued happiness and blessings as they approach their oak anniversary.

Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the remarkable career of Dr. Lawrence Rouse as he begins his well-deserved retirement.

Dr. Rouse has dedicated an impressive 42 years to higher education, serving as the president of the Pitt Community College Bulldogs for the past 6 years.

Throughout his tenure, he has been an instrumental force in the growth and success of students across eastern North Carolina.

Before this, Dr. Rouse served as the president of James Sprunt Community College for 13 years. He earned the distinguished title of North Carolina Community Colleges System President of the Year in 2016.

Dr. Rouse's dedication to North Carolina students has been unwavering despite his South Carolina roots.

Madam Speaker, I acknowledge, too, the vital role that his wife, Janie, has played in supporting him throughout his career. I say thank you to Janie, and I sincerely thank Dr. Rouse and bid him a fond farewell as he enters retirement.

Mr. Speaker, we must prioritize border security.

After visiting the border three times since taking office, it was indeed an eye-opening experience. Border Patrol agents face severe staff shortages, often working long hours, pulled from their families, and need better infrastructure.

Border communities need more resources, and the increasing influx of fentanyl across the country poses a significant threat to public health. We must stop drug cartels.

Our southern border is critical to our national security. I remain dedicated to taking a collaborative approach to address comprehensive immigration reform and securing the southern border. I am willing to work closely with my colleagues from both sides of the aisle to bring about positive change for the people of eastern North Carolina and the entire Nation.

Madam Speaker, Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, is more than just a historical marker. It is a cause for celebration.

Eastern North Carolinians of all ages came together from across the district to celebrate. We had a tremendous time watching talented local artists showcase their skills. Events were filled with vibrant art and music. There was food, vendors, and parades.

We had a fantastic time honoring history and coming together as a community. The sight of so many young people engaging was truly inspiring. I was thrilled to join so many constituents to celebrate this historic and powerful day of freedom.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to commemorate National Homeownership Month, a time to reflect on the American Dream of owning a home and what it means for the communities of eastern North Carolina.

Homeownership for communities across the east is the cornerstone of stability and prosperity.

From putting down roots to building wealth, owning a home represents a significant milestone in the lives of Americans.

Through homeownership, we build strong communities and provide stability for families, yet we know there are many challenges.

Affordability remains a concern for many hardworking families. Congress has a duty to ensure that the American Dream of owning a home is alive and well no matter what your background or ZIP Code.

We must double down on our efforts to improve access to affordable housing, especially in rural America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to acknowledge a significant part of our journey toward justice and reconciliation in our State. Last month, a historic statewide anti-lynching proclamation was signed by Governor Roy Cooper, designating May as Anti-Lynching Awareness Month in North Carolina.

This proclamation resulted from the efforts of members of the Community Remembrance Project of the Warren County NAACP, which partners with local coalitions and the Equal Justice Initiative.

The proclamation shined a light on the painful and often overlooked history of lynchings in our State. It calls for awareness and recognition of the significance of civil rights to ensure that such atrocities never happen again.

Mr. Speaker, ``By the powers vested in me by the State of North Carolina, I now declare you graduates.'' We look forward to hearing these words along with ``You may turn your tassels.''

Graduation marks a significant milestone for students across the country and especially in eastern North Carolina.

Having served in the classroom for nearly 20 years, I extend a heartfelt congratulations to the class of 2024 on this momentous occasion. Graduation is not merely a culmination of academic achievements but a testament to their dedication, perseverance, and hard work. You may see the achievement accomplished by these students is an enormous milestone.

This is a celebration that is felt by families, teachers, mentors, and friends. Their unwavering encouragement and belief in our graduates are huge. We are counting on the graduates of eastern North Carolina. Go forth now and make us proud.

Mr. Speaker, the sound of freedom is roaring at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in Wayne County, North Carolina.

This past week, I visited the base with my colleague, Representative Nickel, and Goldsboro Mayor Charles Gaylor.

It was a pleasure meeting the new wing commander. We had an extensive discussion regarding divestment, the new Air Task Force, and upgrading the combat range.

It is crucial to recognize that Seymour Johnson plays a vital role in eastern North Carolina's economy, which is economically distressed. It is imperative that we prioritize our national security interests and protect this community.

I support the National Defense Authorization Act, including a provision requiring the Air Force to contract with the Department of Defense to conduct an assessment and report back to Congress.

The Air Force must prioritize transparency and accountability to the Wayne County residents.

Madam Speaker, I rise to reiterate my unwavering commitment to the people of eastern North Carolina, where healthcare is a pressing concern.

Unfortunately, our region faces notable healthcare disparities, and the closure of Martin General Hospital in Martin County has only amplified these challenges.

We recently convened a listening session to hear the community's thoughts on the future of healthcare in Martin County. I expressed my sincere gratitude to all who participated and shared their experiences. The stories shared at the listening session truly underscored the profound impact of the hospital closure.

I want to assure Martin County that I am fully committed to working alongside the county and local residents to establish a new, sustainable healthcare system for this resilient community.

Mr. Speaker, a crowd wearing GC- emblazoned blue T-shirts with ``We Over Me'' stamped on the back screamed loudly for joy, celebrating the moment as the Greene Central High School Ram baseball team rushed the field, accompanied by the stirring melody by Queen, ``We Are the Champions,'' yes, of the world.

I congratulate the Greene Central Ram baseball team for securing the 2024 North Carolina High School Athletic Association's 2A championship title. It was a nearly flawless season, 29-1.

Baseball is an integral part of our rich heritage in Greene County and my hometown of Snow Hill. No one has contributed more to putting us on the baseball map than the legendary North Carolina Hall of Famer, Coach James ``Rabbit'' Fulghum.

Coach Fulghum, who is no longer actively coaching, always attends games. He was there in Burlington, North Carolina, passionately supporting this remarkable team.

I am honored to recognize the team members: Noah Uzzell, Braden Burress, Austin Hardy, Cameron Taylor, Brady Anderson, Jordan Scott, Elijah Monroe, Mason Dillon, Riley Radford, Justin Mitchell, Noah Roberson, Easton Creech, Everett Kirkland, Dallas Lee, Peyton Wainright, Austin Brock, and Will Radford.

Coaching this remarkable team were Head Coach Ben Brann, Russell Brann, Jayme Tilley, and David Bryant, also the athletic director.

A special shout-out goes to tournament MVPs Will Radford and Braden Burress, who also tied a State record with 59 runs in a season.

Mr. Speaker, after each player received their medal, the team was presented with the championship trophy and banner, and the team gathered on the mound for a group photo. The crowd erupted once again. Some were even moved to tears this time as Coach Fulghum, with the help of his family and a walker, made his way to join the team for a picture.

Sports in rural communities unite the community, and this exceptional team accomplished exactly that.

The team has grown up together and will now remain together, forever bonded with this achievement.

Today, tomorrow, and forever, we are proudly standing with our Rams.

Ram pride forever.

Madam Speaker, I thank Ranking Member Raskin and Chair Grothman for their work on this measure.

It is my honor to rise in support of H.R. 6750, which designates the United States Postal Service facility at 501 Mercer Street Southwest in Wilson, North Carolina, as the Milton F. Fitch, Sr. Post Office Building.

Milton F. Fitch, Sr., is an important figure in the history of eastern North Carolina. During Mr. Fitch's time of bravely serving us in the United States Army during World War II, he earned several medals and three battle stars.

He distinguished himself by contributing to the success of the Red Ball Express, a massive convoy system that delivered crucial supplies to Allied troops on the warfront in Europe.

After serving his country, he settled in Wilson, North Carolina, where he became the town's first African-American letter carrier since Reconstruction, but Milton F. Fitch, Sr., was more than just that.

He made significant contributions to the Wilson community through his involvement in social, fraternal, and civic organizations.

His commitment to advocating for eastern North Carolina and the State was truly commendable. After a long life dedicated to his community, Mr. Fitch passed on November 2, 1995.

I am proud to honor Milton F. Fitch, Sr.'s achievements alongside the entire North Carolina House of Representatives delegation.

Just as a post office is an essential part of a community, Wilson deserves to have their post office named after Milton F. Fitch, Sr., an outstanding citizen who had a profound impact on eastern North Carolina and our State.

Together, we can ensure that Milton F. Fitch, Sr.'s legacy continues to inspire our community for generations to come.

Madam Speaker, I rise to highlight the importance of ensuring that national leaders hear the voices and concerns of eastern North Carolina to include the residents of Tyrrell County, which are near and dear to me.

With a population of 3,245, Tyrrell County is the smallest in our State. I am deeply grateful for Interior Secretary Deb Haaland's visit to Tyrrell County in February. Her presence and the Federal funds for the boardwalk restoration will make a significant difference.

During my most recent visit, I met with the Concerned Citizens of Columbia, who shared their concerns about drainage, infrastructure, housing, and the need for more youth activities.

I truly feel honored to serve the residents of this extraordinary community. Despite their small numbers, their impact is mighty.

Mr. Speaker, with the American flag hanging, a white hearse traveled down the highway, returning the remains of Staff Sergeant Robert L. Ferris, Jr., home.

More than 80 years after his bomber crashed, Sergeant Ferris joined his family, and he was finally laid to rest.

He was a young gunner, 20 years old, during World War II when his B- 17 was shot down.

This past week he was transported from Raleigh-Durham International Airport to New Bern, a journey that took him through Wilson.

Our local fire department and others came to show respect and pay special tribute to this incredible hero.

There are thousands of stories like Sergeant Ferris'. As we approach Memorial Day, let us honor our fallen soldiers, POWs, MIAs, and those killed in action.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of the town of Gaston, North Carolina, celebrating its 75th anniversary.

As the song ``Celebration'' played in the background, I joined Mayor Deborah Lee James, members of the town council, and residents from across the town to celebrate this amazing milestone.

There was a parade, maypole wrapping, a drum line, and many fun activities. Town officials also cut the ribbon on the Dwight Hall Ballpark, demonstrating their commitment to its future.

Celebrating Gaston's rich history and seeing the beauty of eastern North Carolina was wonderful.

I am looking forward to celebrating many, many, many more years of this great town.

Happy 75th anniversary, Gaston, G-75.