Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor William F. ``Bill'' Rogers, Jr., on receiving the Cabarrus County Bar Association Liberty Bell Award.

A Tennessee native, Bill began his practice in Concord, North Carolina in 1980 focusing on Family Law. Bill has a reputation of being professional, tactful and emotionally supportive to his clients while providing counsel during difficult times.

Bill lives in Cabarrus County with his wife Nanda, and three children, Hannah, Seth and Rachel. When he is not busy with his practice, Bill volunteers for multiple non-profits in the community, including Habitat for Humanity, Coltrane Life Center, Hospice of Cabarrus County, and Cabarrus Workshop. In addition to volunteering and spending time with his family, he enjoys both playing and listening to bluegrass, traveling to the beach, and riding his motorcycle.

The Liberty Bell Award is presented to an individual that educates others on and uphold laws that support American freedom. Throughout his involvement in Cabarrus County, Bill has helped many people regain their confidence in our judicial system by being a constant resource of knowledge. There is no doubt in my mind that Bill will continue to help the people of Cabarrus County with his unwavering commitment to serving others.

Madam Speaker, please join me today in congratulating Bill Rogers as the Cabarrus County Bar Association Liberty Bell Award recipient and wish him well as he continues to uphold our American freedom.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen and her years of service to our country as Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.

It is no secret that we are in uncharted territory when it comes to our security, both at home and abroad. Whether in the realm of cybersecurity, border security, or counterterrorism, Secretary Nielsen has been integral in protecting the lives of hundreds of millions of Americans. And while the crisis at our Southern border and terrorist threats grab the headlines, I would also like to thank Secretary Nielsen just as much for her leadership in responding to hurricanes that have devastated the Carolinas the past few years.

Secretary Nielsen has shown profound leadership and unwavering dedication as the Secretary of Homeland Security. Our country is facing a humanitarian and security crisis at our Southern border Secretary Nielsen has been dogged in taking on the Herculean task of addressing these unprecedented challenges. Yet, she has always conducted her duties with professionalism and poise. Secretary Nielsen's determination to act in the country's best interest will be extremely tough to replace.

In her early career, Secretary Nielsen served as Special Assistant to the President as Senior Director for Prevention, Preparedness and Response under President George W. Bush. After serving in the private sector as the founder and president of Sunesis Consulting LLC, she answered the call to serve again and became Chief of Staff to the then- Secretary of Homeland Security, General John Kelly and then White House Deputy Chief of Staff. While our nation has demanded so much of her, Secretary Nielsen has risen to the occasion each and every time.

Madam Speaker, please join me in thanking Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen for her incredible dedication and service to our country upon her departure as Secretary of Homeland Security.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Edward Stever and wish him a very happy 100th birthday.

The attack on Pearl Harbor was an event that not only shaped the course of our country but the lives of many Americans, including Mr. Stever. After Pearl Harbor was attacked he was one of the many Americans who felt compelled to fight against the Japanese. He then joined the Army Air Corps where he served until 1946. During his career he completed countless dangerous, yet vital, missions delivering bombs and fuel from India to China. He showed endless bravery and courage in his pursuit to serve our country halfway across the world.

After completing active duty, Mr. Stever returned to his wife and two children and worked for IBM in Binghamton, New York until he was transferred to Charlotte, North Carolina. In 2007, he moved to Fayetteville and unfortunately lost his wife after 69 years of marriage. Despite his loss he still felt compelled to serve our country and he has been volunteering at the U.S. Army Airborne and Special Operations Museum, since 2011. In fact, he has dedicated over 2,400 hours to the Museum. I know I speak for everyone when I say we are so thankful for him and all of his service to our country and community.

The U.S. Army Airborne and Special Operations Museum had a goal of collecting 100 birthday cards for Mr. Stever's birthday. I am honored to play a small part in recognizing him and all he has accomplished over the last 100 years.

Madam Speaker, please join me today in thanking Mr. Edward Stever for his service and wishing him a Happy 100th birthday.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor and congratulate Bill Hedgepeth with Select Bank and Trust and Select Bancorp Inc. for receiving the 2019 Realtor Cup award from the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce.

Bill has served as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Select Bank & Trust and Select Bancorp Inc. since 2008. This includes 19 branches in North Carolina and South Carolina. Bill is known for not just his exemplary work in real estate, but his commitment to lead in the community.

Throughout his career, Bill has been recognized for his effort and natural talent. He has been named a Paul Harris Fellow by the Rotary Foundation of Rotary International and in 2015 received the Business of the Year Award on behalf of Select Bank & Trust and Select Bancorp Inc.

Not only is Bill dedicated to seeking excellence in his career but he currently serves as the Board Chair of the United Way of Cumberland County, the Greater Fayetteville Chamber board Treasurer, the Fayetteville and Cumberland County Vision 2026 Board, the Highland Country Club Board of Directors and the Fayetteville Technical Community College Board of Trustees.

Bill is very deserving of this award, and I couldn't be prouder of the example he set for our county and beyond.

Madam Speaker, please join me today in congratulating Bill Hedgepeth on receiving the 2019 Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce Realtor Cup.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor and congratulate Gary Rogers for receiving the 2019 Ambassador of the Year award from the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce.

Gary is a Senior Marketing Consultant with the Beasley Media Group that represents many of our local radio stations. He has an esteemed passion for radio and an unmatched drive that makes him a sound resource for our community.

This prestigious honor is not the first for Gary. He was included in the Fayetteville 40 Under 40 Class of 2018, Ambassador of the Year in 2016, and was the recipient of the Chairman's Award in 2017. He continues to serve his community by investing and volunteering with non-profit organizations such as the Media Team and Children's Ministry at Breezewood Church.

While he is dedicated to his career and service in the community, it is clear his real passion is his marriage to his wife and being a father to his three year old, Charlie. In his efforts to set a wonderful example for his son, he serves as an ambassador with the Greater Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce and has been for the last four years.

Madam Speaker, please join me today in congratulating Gary Rogers on receiving the 2019 Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce Ambassador of the Year award.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor and congratulate On- After Bar and Grub for receiving the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year Award.

On-After Bar and Grub has established itself as a staple in the community and does more than just serve a great meal. They have proven to be a reliable leader in the community and continue to go above and beyond to support the community where ever it is needed.

Joseph Dewberry, or known around the bar as Bear, has been a driving force in adding meaning to their slogan ``Our day begins, when your shift ends.'' Over the past few years they have hosted events like the Autism Awareness cook off, Hurricane Florence Relief, Every Child Deserves a Christmas, and Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevent Day. In addition to hosting events they emphasize the importance of recognizing the service our local law enforcement, emergency services, and military provide. The entire community is grateful for On-After Bar and Grub, myself included.

Bear and all the staff at On-After Bar and Grub are deserving of this award and I wish them success as they continue to provide excellent service to our community. I personally look forward to my next visit while I'm traveling across the district!

Madam Speaker, please join me today in congratulating Joseph Dewberry and On-After Bar and Grub Restaurant on receiving the 2019 Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year Award.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor and congratulate Sharon Moyer for receiving the 2019 Athena Award from the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce.

The Athena award is highly coveted and is presented to the individual that represents the greatest support for the goals of professional women. Recipients of this award demonstrate excellence, creativity, and initiative in their profession and provides valuable service by contributing time and energy to improve the lives of others in the community.

Sharon Moyer has proven worthy of this award time and again with her innovative thinking, natural leadership, and ability to meet competitive deadlines. She inspires others with her personable attitude and her willingness to work hard and invest in the growth and success of others around her. Sharon has been an active part of the Partnership for Children program and initiated ``Historic Hauntings: A Ghastly Ghost Tour'' to help children learn the history of Fayetteville. I have personally attended one of her annual soirees for the Partnership for Children and have seen the product of her leadership firsthand.

There are many children in our community more prepared to reach their full potential due to Sharon's philosophy ``persistence beats resistance.'' Our community is better because of Sharon and I am thrilled she is being recognized for her talent and dedication.

Madam Speaker, please join me today in congratulating Sharon Moyer on receiving the 2019 Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce Athena Award.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor and congratulate Sandy Ammons for receiving the 2019 Chairman's Award from the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce.

Sandy has been a constant positive force in the community when it comes to the world of business development and marketing services. She currently serves as the Director of Business Development and Human Resources for Highland Construction and Restoration where she oversees marketing and communication, business development, and administrative functions including human resources and recruitment.

Sandy is a highly valued and trusted resource who is always generous in offering guidance to others. She has been conquering all aspects of this industry since 1999 and owned her own successful marketing firm for 14 years. Her ability to capture elegant and innovative design is only part of her unmatched talent. During her time with Methodist University she was able to provide unparalleled guidance as the Vice President for Advancement and University Relations. She continues to serve the community with her fierce work ethic and amazing attention to detail.

Madam Speaker, please join me today in congratulating Sandy Ammons on receiving the 2019 Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce Chairman's Award.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor and congratulate Hanna Britt for receiving the 2019 Young Professional of the Year award from the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce.

I have a profound respect for successful individuals taking the time and patience to offer mentorship to other aspiring young professionals. Hanna has been with H&H Homes since 2013 and is currently serving as the Corporate Director of Marketing.

After receiving a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Marketing from Appalachian State University, Hanna taught English in South Korea. She came back to Fayetteville in 2013, and has been passionate about supporting the community. She is a member of the Fayetteville Young Professional program and served on the leadership committee for two years. Additionally, she is a past member of the Junior League of Fayetteville.

Hanna is well deserving of this award and provides a wonderful example for other young professionals in our community. Her passion is shown in all that she does and it is with great pride that I acknowledge her achievements today.

Madam Speaker, please join me today in congratulating Hanna Britt on receiving the 2019 Young Professional of the Year award from the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to voice my strong opposition to H.R. 8 and H.R. 1112.

We all share the same goal: to end gun violence. But in the course of this debate, House Democrats say they want to do something to end gun violence and anyone who disagrees with their policies doesn't care.

I believe in my heart that the gentleman from Maryland and the folks on the other side of this debate care about the victims of gun violence and the children in this country, and I know in my heart that my colleagues on this side of the aisle and I care, too.

It is a shame that in their rush to do something, anything, Democrats have made this a partisan show. They won't even allow my bipartisan concealed carry reciprocity bill that passed this House last Congress to be debated on the House floor today.

What about the single mother victim of assault, like Shaneen Allen? Does she not have the right to defend herself?

Instead of working on commonsense solutions that can actually help prevent tragedies--like supporting local law enforcement, ensuring laws and protocols are followed, improving mental health, and implementing my concealed carry reciprocity--they are targeting law-abiding citizens, and they are disregarding existing Federal law.

There is no gun show loophole. Federal law already requires a background check on every commercial gun purchase in America no matter where it takes place. Federal law already prohibits so-called straw purchases.

Let's make one thing clear: H.R. 8 would not have stopped Newtown. H.R. 8 would not have stopped Parkland. It would not have stopped Las Vegas or Sutherland Springs or San Bernardino or the tragic attack on our former colleague, Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords.

But the proponents of gun control don't want you to judge them based on outcomes; they want you to judge them based on intentions. And they say anyone who points out the facts, anyone who dares observe the obvious flaws in their legislation, does so because they don't care.

In their rush to do something, House Democrats ignore that House Republicans have done many things, like strengthening the background check system, which would have prevented Sutherland Springs; improving mental healthcare, which would have prevented many of these shootings such as Newtown and Charleston and Parkland; and giving schools the tools they need to protect students. All these bills received bipartisan support in the last Congress, but we don't get credit for real action because they say our intentions weren't good enough.

We owe it to the American people to look past the intention and the emotion and focus like a laser on outcomes. What can we do to actually end gun violence once and for all?

So what is this bill actually going to do?

It is going to turn a law-abiding American into a criminal when you loan your shotgun to your buddy to go dove hunting.

It is going to make it illegal for a victim of stalking to borrow a gun from a neighbor for protection.

It is going to make the cost of background checks so expensive that the average American can't afford to buy a gun. Meanwhile, criminals are going to continue to get their firearms, whether it is through theft or the black market or on the street.

I applaud President Donald Trump for standing with us against this ineffective legislation, and I encourage my colleagues to vote ``no.''

The American people want us to work together to solve this problem and stop gun violence. Can't we come together in a bipartisan way and not just do something, but do something that will actually make a difference?

I am calling on my colleagues to put partisanship aside. Work together on ideas that will actually make a difference. I stand ready to continue this work. I will work with anyone to end gun violence while also protecting the rights of law-abiding citizens, and I reject the false dilemma that we can't do both.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Graham T. ``Bubba'' Moore, Jr. on his nearly fifty years of outstanding service to our community as he retires from Barnhill Contracting Company, located in North Carolina's Eighth Congressional District.

Graham--or Bubba as he's known to his friends--started his career in 1973 and retires today as the Vice President of Barnhill Contracting Company after 46 years of service in Fayetteville, North Carolina. He graduated from North Carolina State University in 1973 with a degree in engineering, and in that same year he married his lovely wife, Betty Gail. Together they've raised two children, Landis and Gray, and one grandchild, Evelyn.

Over the years, Bubba has become a pillar of the community. While the list of his community involvements is quite extensive, Bubba has time and again stepped up to help our soldiers, veterans and their families--no small feat considering Fayetteville is home to Fort Bragg, the largest military installation in the world. Bubba has served as the Vice-Chair of the Ft Bragg Special Activities Committee, Chairman of the Military Affairs Council of the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce, and on the Board of Directors for the Sandhills Military Council.

On top of these public positions, Bubba has always been known as someone who wanted to help our troops behind the scenes. Bubba went to visit soldiers in Afghanistan at Bagram Air Field in Kandahar and delivered Christmas gifts and Holiday Cheer to our deployed soldiers. He also helped organized family trips for Gold Star family members and was instrumental in supporting children of deployed soldiers attend exclusive productions of ``Disney on Ice'' at the Crown Center. These were things that may not have received public attention, but that didn't matter to Bubba; he just cared about giving back to the place he's called home for so long.

I wish Bubba a long and happy retirement, and I know I speak for countless people in the community when I say he will be missed at Barnhill Contracting Company.

Madam Speaker, please join me in congratulating Bubba for his incredible career and service to our community.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor and congratulate the NorthEast Foundation for receiving the 2019 Cabarrus Chamber of Commerce Nonprofit of the Year Award.

Carolinas HealthCare System NorthEast has provided high quality health care and assistance to those most in need in our community, including when my young son, Lane, was delivered there just a few years ago. The hospital's NorthEast Foundation has been the driver of so much development and advances to help better serve our people, including raising the money needed to build the Jeff Gordon Children's Center, the Breast Health Center, Cabarrus College of Health Sciences and expanding the Tucker Hospice House.

Led by President Charlie Sastoque, the NorthEast Foundation was formed in 1994 to support one of our community's most valued assets, NorthEast Hospital. Utilizing a community-driven and donor-centric approach, the NorthEast Foundation has provided a platform for which donors can provide to specialty areas that interest or impact them the most. This approach allows donors to directly see the results of their donation, from a new piece of equipment in the neurology lab to support for a scholarship for aspiring nurses and doctors. These creative programs have led directly to Cabarrus County being at the forefront of many medical innovations the last 25 years.

Our community--and my home--is a much better place to live because of the work of the NorthEast Foundation, and I wish them success for the next quarter century.

Madam Speaker, please join me today in congratulating NorthEast Foundation on their achievement of the 2019 Cabarrus Chamber of Commerce Nonprofit of the Year Award.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor and congratulate Chris Archer for receiving the Cabarrus Chamber of Commerce Ambassador of the Year Award.

The Cabarrus Chamber of Commerce Ambassador team is a group of highly visible, prestigious volunteers who serve as the Chamber's primary liaison to Chamber members and the community. They provide vital leadership by sharing their business insights and connections with members and represent the best the Chamber has to offer.

Since joining the Cabarrus Chamber two years ago, Mr. Archer understood that building relationships is the key to any successful business. As an Account Manager at Sharp Business Systems, he has seen success as a result of his involvement with the Chamber of Commerce. He is always ready to greet new members and promote the Chamber to nonmembers--he's one of the key reasons our Chamber has been so successful the past year.

Mr. Archer is deserving of this award and I wish him success as he continues to provide excellent service to our community.

Madam Speaker, please join me today in congratulating Chris Archer on receiving the 2019 Cabarrus Chamber of Commerce Ambassador of the Year Award.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor and congratulate Timothy F. Vaughn for receiving the 2019 Duke Energy Citizenship and Service Award from the Cabarrus Chamber of Commerce.

The Duke Energy Citizenship and Service Award seeks out individuals who use their time, talent and compassion to positively impact the lives of others in their community or in the workplace. Recipients of the award help foster a culture of citizenship and service that acts as a catalyst for others to become involved in civic and social activities.

Even though he always puts others first, I can think of no one more deserving of recognition than Tim Vaughn. I've known Tim for over twenty years at this point--despite managing Hilbish Ford, one of the biggest car dealerships in the state, he's always found time to step up and lead our community. He's helped lead the Rotary Club, he's helped our children in both Cabarrus County and Kannapolis City Schools, and he's always been thoroughly involved with the Cabarrus Chamber.

Tim Vaughn truly represents the best our county has to offer, and I'm thrilled he is being recognized by Duke Energy and the Cabarrus Chamber of Commerce.

Madam Speaker, please join me today in congratulating Timothy F. Vaughn on receiving the 2019 Duke Energy Citizenship and Service Award from the Cabarrus Chamber of Commerce.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor and congratulate 73 & Main Restaurant on receiving the 2019 Cabarrus Chamber of Commerce New Business of the Year Award.

Located in Mt. Pleasant, North Carolina, 73 & Main Restaurant has established itself as a restaurant that caters to not just folks from around the area, but people from across the country. This restaurant features a bourbon bar, chef's table, patio, event space, and more. 73 & Main has quickly become a source of pride for the community, myself included.

Led by Dr. Allen Dobson and General Manager Anthony Misuraca, 73 & Main over the past year has not just become Mt. Pleasant's largest employer, but has also helped revitalize downtown Mt. Pleasant and eastern Cabarrus County. With over 50 percent of their guests coming from outside Cabarrus County, it is clear that 73 & Main is worthy of their already stellar reputation.

Dr. Dobson, Mr. Misuraca and 73 & Main Restaurant are deserving of this award and I wish them success as they continue to provide excellent service to our community. I personally look forward to my next visit while I'm traveling across the district.

Madam Speaker, please join me today in congratulating Allen Dobson, Anthony Misuraca and 73 & Main Restaurant on receiving the 2019 Cabarrus Chamber of Commerce New Business of the Year Award.