Donald Davis

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to highlight the Agriculture Commodities Price Enhancement Act. Input costs for our farmers are astronomically high right now, whether it be fertilizer, seeds, or labor, not to mention the volatility of the current world food market. On top of this, the past year was one of the worst years for farmers in North Carolina, between the impacts of drought and Hurricane Helene and other factors beyond their control. Our farmers need some certainty that they will be able to farm next year if their crops are not bringing in enough income to provide for their families. The Agriculture Commodities Price Enhancement Act directly addresses this by increasing reference prices for key commodities grown in eastern North Carolina and across the United States.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Madam Speaker, I rise to highlight the Promoting Precision Agriculture Act, legislation I introduced with the gentleman from Kansas, Tracey Mann. Agriculture is our top industry in North Carolina. The bill would establish a partnership between the Federal Government and the private sector to create voluntary interconnectivity standards and prioritize the cybersecurity needs for precision agriculture technologies. Precision agriculture includes robotics, sensors, monitors, and drones to help growers increase efficiency, potentially boosting crop yields while lowering costs for fuel, fertilizer, and other inputs. It helps our farmers to be successful, profitable, and productive. We must ensure our growers have access to the cutting-edge precision agriculture technologies and broadband services necessary to do what they do best, and that is feed, fuel, and clothe the American people.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, with honor I stand before you to introduce Pastor Frank Rice, an extraordinary man of faith and a true pillar in our community. Originally from West Virginia, he felt God's call on his life at the age of 13. He dedicated his youth to studying theology, and it was at Southeastern College where he met the love of his life, Genell. Together they were blessed with four wonderful children. For 25 years, Pastor Rice has devoted his life to ministry in eastern North Carolina, including the past 12 years as the senior pastor at Mount Calvary Free Will Baptist Church and administrator of Mount Calvary Christian Academy in Hookerton, North Carolina. However, his work doesn't stop there. Hailing from a long line of veterans, Pastor Rice has a deep commitment to our men and women in uniform, constantly reaching out to offer them God's Word. He is also known for God and Country Day to honor the first responders: fire and rescue, EMS, law enforcement, government officials, and all branches of the military. I am incredibly proud to call Pastor Rice a beloved member of my home community. Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor I present him today. Pastor Rice's passion for God's work truly inspires me. He challenges each and every one of us to walk boldly in our faith, striving to make the world a better place through our actions and devotion to God. Mr. Speaker, I thank him for this morning's prayer.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I am excited to take a moment to celebrate Apostle Norbert Simmons. He founded Deeper Life Church Ministries, which recently marked an incredible 41 years of service. Hailing from Mount Olive, North Carolina, Apostle Simmons graduated from Carver High School, where he served as chaplain for the National Alumni Association. He has done a fantastic job of growing his church from just 9 to 2,000 members. Apostle Simmons has truly inspired so many in the community, and I had the privilege of presenting him with the Order of the Longleaf Pine on behalf of the Governor. It is essential to acknowledge that he didn't do it alone. His loving wife, Gwen, along with their family and church, supported him every step of the way. We are all so grateful for everything that Apostle Simmons and his family have contributed to eastern North Carolina and our State.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the students who are participating in the incredible Gentleman's Agreement program in Wilson County Schools of North Carolina. Through the program, they engage in mentorship and leadership development. During a visit to the U.S. Capitol on a tour with former Congressman G. K. Butterfield, I had an opportunity to speak with the group in the rotunda about what we are doing here and the possibilities of their future. It is moments like these that subtly remind us of how we can help shape the future by inspiring and motivating our young people. Investing in the next generation of leaders is critical to building a stronger future in eastern North Carolina and across America. I really enjoyed speaking with this group.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Honorable Brandon Johnson, vice chairman of the Greene County Board of Education, as my special guest for the President's address to the joint session of Congress. Brandon is a Greene County native and has served on the school board since 2020. He was the youngest elected official in our county's history when he was first elected. Brandon is also a special agent in law enforcement for our State, teaches part time in the basic law enforcement program at Pitt Community College, and serves at his home church of Ormondsville Original Free Will Baptist Church. He is passionate about education and public safety, topics essential for eastern North Carolina and our Nation. Brandon's father serves on the county board of commissioners, and his greatest inspiration in life comes from his mother, who passed when he was 17. When my colleagues see Brandon, Members will also see someone driven by his faith and dedicated to shaping the future of Greene County, eastern North Carolina, and America. I welcome Brandon to our Nation's Capitol.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor civil rights trailblazer Sarah Keys Evans. In 1952, Private First Class Evans, in the Women's Army Corps, courageously refused to give up her seat on a bus in Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina. Her refusal took place 3\1/2\ years before Rosa Parks'. Evans' refusal, leading to her arrest, paved the way for a crucial legal victory in the case of Keys v. Carolina Coach Company. Sarah Keys Evans' legacy is significant in our country, which is why I filed legislation that would award her with the Congressional Gold Medal, an award that will honor her relentless spirit, reminding us that we must dare to create the world not as it is, but what we believe it should be.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the extraordinary Oxford community and one of its most outstanding leaders, Mr. Xavier Wortham. I had the honor of spending a day in Oxford, engaging with local nonprofits, educators, clergy, elected officials, and residents. We also visited the Masonic Home for Children and held a listening session. Among the many remarkable people we met, Mr. Wortham's impact stands out. For 40 years, he has served as executive director of the Oxford Housing Authority, providing families with crucial education, job training, and opportunities like college tours at Duke University. Mr. Wortham's tireless commitment and love for those he serves in the community is indeed a beacon of hope. He embodies what makes Oxford and the First Congressional District exceptional. Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. Wortham for his example and unwavering dedication and passion.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the brave men and women who have given their lives in service to our country. I had the privilege of sitting down with Kathy Moore, a Gold Star mother whose son, Ryan Russell, was killed on March 5, 2007. Kathy shared her stories about Ryan's service and why she continues to advocate for the Honor and Remember flag. She spoke about his eagerness to serve as a medic despite his initial fear of blood. Kathy also shared the thing she missed the most about Ryan: seeing his smile, a simple gesture that brightened her day. Here was a mother from eastern North Carolina whose child was killed in Iraq by an IED, the most devastating thing that could happen to a parent. Despite her grief, Kathy has become a powerful advocate for the Honor and Remember flag. Mr. Speaker, I encourage my colleagues to pass this vital legislation and for America to honor and remember our fallen heroes like Ryan.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to acknowledge the dedicated schoolbus drivers who ensure our children's safety every day. During School Bus Driver Appreciation Week, I had the privilege of riding along on Mrs. Pamela Respess' schoolbus at Banks Elementary School in Lenoir County. There was so much excitement. It was an early morning, and we hopped on the bus after the prechecks. Throughout the route, Mrs. Respess greeted students by name, transforming morning faces into smiles. After parking the schoolbus, the students hugged Mrs. Respess as they hopped off and headed to class. My experience highlights the vital role of schoolbus drivers who face enormous challenges like bus shortages and overcrowding. We thank our schoolbus drivers across America like Mrs. Respess not just today but every day.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Madam Speaker, I rise to voice my unwavering support for the people of Ukraine. As Russia persists in its unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, it is crucial that we unite against Putin as defenders of freedom. By coming together, we can safeguard Ukraine's sovereignty and the future of democracy. Ukrainians, demonstrating extraordinary resilience, have displayed unwavering courage on the front lines for nearly 3 years. I remain steadfast in supporting democracy, standing with Ukraine, and opposing all of the enemies of freedom around the world.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to voice my unwavering support for the hardworking farmers of eastern North Carolina who are facing enormous challenges. Inflation continues to cast a shadow over our agriculture community with input costs such as seeds, fertilizer, and equipment. In our State, many farmers have experienced crop losses resulting from drought conditions and Hurricane Helene. It is hard to catch a break as labor costs continue rising, making it increasingly difficult for farmers to maintain operations and livelihoods. We cannot overlook the well-known effects that tariffs have on our agriculture communities. They hurt farmers' bottom lines and limit market access. Congress must pass a farm bill that meets the needs of farmers, consumers, and rural communities. We must respond not just with our words but with deeds.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Madam Speaker, I rise to celebrate a momentous achievement for Camden County, North Carolina. They will soon have emergency medical services operational for the first time in history. The county has relied on external EMS providers for emergencies, but thanks to the unwavering commitment of local officials and the community, Camden County will now deliver paramedic-level emergency medical services. Such a transformative step means quicker response times, improved coverage, and, most critically, an enhanced capability to save lives when every second matters. In rural communities, reliable emergency medical services are not just a luxury but an absolute necessity. Let us congratulate Camden County EMS on this significant achievement. We eagerly anticipate their first call, knowing that they will have a positive impact on the community for many years to come.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, after meeting with sheriffs, prosecutors, and families from across eastern North Carolina, one thing is clear: Fentanyl is devastating our communities. The deadly drug is causing kids to overdose, destroying families, and overwhelming law enforcement. Congress must take action to address this crisis, which is why I introduced the MAP Act and supported the HALT Fentanyl Act. We must secure our border, hold the cartels accountable, and stop this poison from entering communities across America. Mr. Speaker, the opioid crisis is not just a border State problem. It is all of ours. Congress must protect our families by properly equipping our law enforcement community and working to decrease the demand for illicit drugs.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, the fentanyl epidemic has devastated communities across our Nation for far too long. In North Carolina's First Congressional District, an estimated three individuals die each week from fentanyl overdose. Over the past year, law enforcement has seized more than 80 million fentanyl-laced fake pills nationwide. During a trip to the southern border, I visited the Tucson Border Patrol sector, the epicenter of the fentanyl crisis. I saw firsthand how deadly drugs make their way into our community. To combat these lethal and counterfeit pills, I am introducing the Modern Authentication of Pharmaceuticals Act, or the MAP Act. The MAP Act would require more advanced tracing technology on controlled substances in our drug supply chain. I urge Congress to pass this legislation.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Kenneth Lee Parker, the former mayor of Momeyer, North Carolina. Kenneth was a dedicated public servant and a true pillar of the Momeyer community. For over 25 years, he selflessly served as mayor, dedicating his time as assistant fire chief and a volunteer EMT. Kenneth's commitment to his community didn't stop there. For 52 years, he was actively involved in the Ruritan club where he and his wife, Colleen, provided delicious meals and he gracefully embodied its motto: ``fellowship, goodwill, and community service.'' We reflect on Kenneth's remarkable life and contributions, and I extend my prayers to his family and all those who were fortunate enough to have known him. His legacy of kindness and service will forever resonate in our hearts. May we all find inspiration in Kenneth's example and strive to make a difference as he did.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise with a heavy heart to honor the remarkable life of Columbia Mayor James Cahoon. Mayor Cahoon's dedication to our Nation began with his service to the United States Army. His commitment to education was evident as principal and assistant superintendent of Tyrrell County Schools where he shaped countless young lives. As the head deacon and beloved Sunday schoolteacher at Soundside Original Free Will Baptist Church, he embodied the spirit of love. For more than 8 years, Mayor Cahoon devoted himself to serving the residents of Columbia. His unwavering compassion and advocacy for his community left a lasting impact that will not be forgotten. I feel fortunate to have known Mayor Cahoon and witness the warmth and dedication he brought to those around him. We will miss him. My deepest condolences go out to his family and the town of Columbia.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I move that the House do now adjourn.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the extraordinary life of James Sears, a truly remarkable eastern North Carolinian. Mr. Sears was a dedicated advocate and a steadfast supporter of communities across our region. He served on the Gates County Board of Elections. He was an active member of the NAACP and his home church, New Hope Baptist Church in Gatesville. There are so many organizations, but the one that he loved and devoted over 30 years to was the Eastern North Carolina Civic Group. He always prioritized the needs of others. His unwavering commitment to families across eastern North Carolina was evident in all that he did. We are incredibly grateful for his contributions and the positive impact he has made on so many lives. His passing has left a void in our community that will be deeply felt. My heart goes out to his family, the Eastern North Carolina Civic Group, and to the Gates County community as we now remember and celebrate his legacy.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, January is National Mentorship Month. It is the perfect time to highlight the transformative work of the Epsilon Sigma Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, with their Alpha Academy Leadership Development Program, which serves male students from Edgecombe, Nash, Halifax, and Wilson Counties. They are empowering middle and high school students in eastern North Carolina through three core pillars: leadership, mentorship, and scholarship. Since its inception, the Alpha Academy has impacted over 200 young men, continuously shifting life narratives and opening doors to a brighter future. These young men have engaged in impactful local and global service projects from turkey drives and Socktober; impacting areas such as Haiti and as far as Tanzania. Mr. Speaker, during National Mentorship Month, we celebrate the Alpha Academy.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Tarboro High School football team for clinching our State's 1A Championship and ending their season with a 14-1 record. As the reigning champions, they own a whopping nine State titles. The Vikings defeated a physical Corvian Community Cardinal team 45-24. I am so proud to congratulate Coach Jeff Craddock, also known as the GOAT. I congratulate all of the coaches, parents, the community, and players, including Kamerin McDowell-Moore, who scored a sensational four touchdowns to secure the MVP. Tarboro High School, in the heart of eastern North Carolina, has produced NFL greats such as Kelvin Bryant, Shaun Draughn, Donald Frank, Todd Gurley, Bill Hull, and Tyquan Lewis. Clearly, the Vikings are a powerhouse. If America didn't know about Tarboro High School, well, now they know.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, on August 28, 1963, the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., delivered one of the most famous speeches of the century, ``I Have a Dream.'' During the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, he shared his dream, which was deeply rooted in the American Dream. His speech reminded us of our Nation's promises of freedom, justice, and equality. Mr. Speaker, North Carolina State University Professor Jason Miller discovered a recording of this iconic speech. However, this recording captured Dr. King delivering it to about 1,800 people at Booker T. Washington High School in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, 8 months before the March on Washington. The speech in Rocky Mount is the first recorded evidence of Dr. King's ``I Have a Dream'' speech. Eastern North Carolina has a rich history, and during this MLK holiday, I encourage all of us to keep the dream alive.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor and celebrate the remarkable life of Dr. Suzanne Evans Sheppard, an exceptional member of our community who touched many lives. She was a devoted mother, educator, and wife, an inspiring figure who cherished her church, Victory & Dominion World Outreach Center. To serve as a reminder of her tremendous contributions, her church has renamed its family life center in her honor. On her birthday, family and community members gathered to celebrate. We released balloons into the sky, and Pastor Dr. Zebedee Sheppard, her beloved husband, made the heartfelt announcement. The new name is fitting, reflecting the center's role in serving the community to which she dedicated so much of her life. I am truly grateful for Dr. Suzanne Sheppard, and the new name of this incredible facility in our community now makes it complete.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Madam Speaker, drumroll, please. I rise to recognize a legendary drummer and, above all, an incredible human being, Sam ``The Man'' Lathan. Mr. Lathan was born and raised in Wilson, North Carolina. At 94, he has a deep passion for drums, which placed him on many stages, from playing for the iconic singer James Brown and The Monitors band to St. John AME Zion Church, his home church. Mr. Lathan has also served as an educator and drove a school bus. He is known for mentoring his former students. He has been featured in the African American Music Trails of North Carolina. Madam Speaker, joining many community members in recognizing Sam ``The Man'' Lathan for his love of drumming and community is indeed an honor.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, after an incredible 46.5 years of working at the local McDonald's in Williamston, North Carolina, Flora Speller, affectionately known as Ms. Flo, is hanging up her uniform and retiring. She started work on June 29, 1978, at 18 years old. At that time, a Big Mac was 90 cents, and since, she has become a beloved fixture in the community. Nearly half a century, she has not just served meals; she has built strong community relationships with her customers and coworkers. She loves her customers, and they love her. Ms. Flo described McDonald's as her second home. When asked, she plans to travel more, however, she is contemplating returning to work part time. Where? At McDonald's. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Ms. Flo on her retirement and thank her for the 46.5 amazing years.