Donald Davis

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. 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. DAVIS of North Carolina

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 We are confronted with significant challenges, including the threat of illegal drugs, outdated detention centers, and issues facing juveniles.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

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. 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. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. 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. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. 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. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of 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. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. 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. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. 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. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. 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.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. 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. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. 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. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. 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. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. 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.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate the talented artists of North Carolina's First Congressional District who participated in the 2025 Congressional Art Competition. I was honored to host a ceremony recognizing over 30 dynamic and talented high school artists. I especially congratulate our first-place winner, Valerie Jacobson of Martin County, for her piece, ``The Unbothered Sister,'' inspired by her sister. I also applaud our second- and third-place winners, Addison Rich of Nash County and Reagan Greene of Greene County. Special thanks go to every participant for their involvement in an extremely competitive competition. Their artwork reminded me that the future is bright and colorful in eastern North Carolina. These young artists are a true reflection of the heart and spirit of the east.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to reflect on the Meet Residents Where They Are Tour my team and I conducted during the past district work period, a meaningful journey, crisscrossing North Carolina's First Congressional District. We connected with people who make eastern North Carolina special from classrooms to farms. At the 60th annual Haliwa-Saponi Blooming of the Dogwood Powwow, I was proud to present my bill in support of Federal recognition. We visited schools, read to children, engaged with food bank volunteers and farmers. We spent time at the Tar River Boys and Girls Club in Rocky Mount, celebrated Barton College and Wilson Community College, and met with quilters in Warren County, as well as disaster survivors in Perquimans County. We also visited key businesses driving our economy, the United States Coast Guard in Elizabeth City, and ECSU. Mr. Speaker, it was a remarkable experience and a powerful reminder of why we are able to serve.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, for far too long, Congress has kicked the can down the road on meaningful action on immigration reform, and there is still significant work to be done to secure our border. Meanwhile, families in eastern North Carolina are facing dire consequences from illegal drugs and crime in communities. People back home want Congress to act. Clearly, this isn't just an issue for border communities. It affects all of us. With a decline in unlawful entries into our country, our attention has shifted to Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Recently, I visited the ICE Detention Center servicing eastern North Carolina, followed by the Stewart Detention Center in Lumpkin, Georgia, where detainees from eastern North Carolina are transported. I also made a trip to Guantanamo Bay with members of the Armed Services Committee. To be clear, we must not compromise public safety and we must adhere to the Constitution.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise with a heavy heart to pay special tribute to the extraordinary contributions of Mr. Ed Morgan, who passed at 90. He was a beloved retired music teacher in Greene County. Mr. Morgan dedicated his life to inspiring countless students, teaching them to read music and find joy in playing instruments like clarinets and horns. He would take his students' instruments to tune, maintain, and even teach them how to play. Mr. Speaker, I am grateful for him teaching me how to play the drums. His passion for people and his unwavering commitment to our community were evident to all who knew him. Mr. Morgan also served our country honorably in the United States Army. Music is woven deeply into the fabric of Greene County's history. The music coming out of our county sounds really, really good because of Mr. Morgan's influence. I can only imagine the song he is playing now. Mr. Speaker, I extend my heartfelt condolences to Dorothy Moye, his family, and our community.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the remarkable achievement of a teacher from Wilson, North Carolina. Mr. Jonas Almerino, a high school science teacher at Sallie B. Howard School, has been awarded the Burroughs Wellcome Fund's 2025 Career Award for STEM Teachers. The award honors outstanding educators who are committed to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The grant will be used to set up science equipment and living labs in the school's new high school building and provide essential supplies. The award includes $175,000 over 5 years. STEM will play a crucial role in the future of education, and Mr. Almerino is proving that North Carolina is leading the way. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the Sallie B. Howard School.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the heroes of the 4th Fighter Wing at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in Goldsboro, North Carolina. Air Combat Command General Ken Wilsbach awarded 31 incredible and amazing airmen from the 4th Fighter Wing high-level decorations. The ceremony recognized the airmen for their rapid response and performance in the largest air-to-air engagement in over 50 years. When faced with unprecedented threats, courage and bravery surged to the forefront. Our servicemembers defended U.S. coalition partners, including Israel, embodying the true essence of service. These airmen, receiving well-deserved decorations, surrounded by their family and friends, have rightfully earned our Nation's gratitude. Right here is what American heroes look like, and I am so proud of each and every one of them.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life of eastern North Carolina legend Don Ensley. As a community health educator, advocate, and environmental champion, Dr. Ensley also represented the best of eastern North Carolina. After graduating from North Carolina Central, he served in the United States Army during Vietnam. Upon completing degrees at Michigan State and UNC-Chapel Hill, he joined East Carolina's faculty in 1977 as an associate professor in the School of Allied Health and Social Professions' Department of Community Health and became chair. He acted as the assistant vice chancellor for community engagement. Dr. Ensley was one of the first African-American health sciences faculty. He was also the first president of the North Carolina Coastal Federation. Above all, I am grateful for his mentorship, friendship, and the legacy he leaves us. Besides rural health, he loved his late wife, Ramona, and spending time with friends, fish, and politics. He would end his messages to me with ``Don'' and the initial from his last name, ``E'': ``DonE.'' Well DonE, Dr. Ensley. I extend heartfelt condolences to his daughter who he loved so well, Akilah.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, there is an exceptional farm family in Deep Run, North Carolina. Tyndall Farms is a true reflection of the spirit of eastern North Carolina. During a visit, the Tyndall family welcomed me with open arms, sharing their humble beginnings. They talked about how their parents started the farm with little and what life was like growing up in the Tyndall household. We spoke about their rich heritage, biscuits cooked from scratch, and the meaning of agriculture across our region. Jerry Tyndall, the new North Carolina Tobacco Farmer of the Year, shared his acceptance speech. He led a group prayer before leaving. Jerry's grandma is so proud. Mr. Speaker, many families like the Tyndalls are counting on Congress. We must make good decisions so that they can continue to operate and so that they can pass on the farm one day to their sons, daughters, and grandchildren.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, there is so much excitement in my home county, Greene County, North Carolina. The Greene Central High School band received the highest marks at the North Carolina Bandmasters Association Music Performance Adjudication concert band festival. They earned a superior rating, which is the highest score. The band consists of 40 incredible students, led by an amazing band director, Mr. Andrew Howell. Music education remains essential, not just in eastern North Carolina but across the Nation. I am so proud of the Greene Central High School band, and I thank everyone across America for joining in this exciting achievement. I look forward to hearing all the wonderful music they will make in their future. Go Rams.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Madam Speaker, the extensive media coverage of townhalls across the country has undeniably caused a surge of interest from all counties across my congressional district. Recognizing the challenges of traveling to each county quickly, I took decisive action by organizing a telephone townhall, which nearly 13,000 constituents attended. Residents voiced concerns about the pressing issues highlighted in the news and concerns related to Social Security, Medicaid, and Medicare. Veterans raised issues regarding availability of benefits, while farmers stressed the necessity for immediate assistance. With a spread of 22 counties composing North Carolina's First Congressional District, my team and I must remain accessible and responsive to our constituents. I take this responsibility to heart and am fully committed to advocating for the families of eastern North Carolina. I look forward to hosting more townhalls and sincerely thank all who participated.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, North Carolina's First Congressional District is one of the most economically distressed in the Nation. However, I have good news to share. Recently, I was honored to join industry, State, and community leaders for the groundbreaking of a new, over $2 billion, state-of-the- art Johnson & Johnson biologics manufacturing facility in Wilson, North Carolina. It will bring more than 500 specialized jobs paying about $109,000 a year into eastern North Carolina. The first 10 years of operation are estimated to have an economic impact of $3 billion statewide. Johnson & Johnson is also committed to investing in local education, STEM, workforce, and research. The new facility will support Johnson & Johnson's plans to advance transformational medicines for cancer, immune-mediated, and neurological diseases. The investment will have a huge and life-changing impact for our region.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the remarkable servicemembers of Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in Goldsboro, North Carolina. During a recent base visit, I toured the child development center, the fitness center, and the dorms. Quality of life remains essential to readiness, along with the CATM upgrades. Aircraft maintenance remains vital, as well as addressing the challenges with delivery of parts and the supply chain. Seymour Johnson Air Force Base plays a huge role in eastern North Carolina's economy and our national defense. As an Air Force veteran, I am so proud to represent Seymour Johnson and Wayne County. I will not stop advocating for the base, our warfighters, and eastern North Carolina.