Charles (Chuck) Edwards

Ms. EDWARDS

Ms. EDWARDS. The Chair recognizes the Honorable Dan Kildee of Michigan.

Ms. EDWARDS. The Chair recognizes the Honorable Fred Upton of Michigan.

Ms. EDWARDS. The Chair recognizes the Honorable Val Demings of Florida.

Ms. EDWARDS. The Chair recognizes the Honorable Larry LaRocco of Idaho.

Ms. EDWARDS. The Chair recognizes the Honorable Tim Petri of Wisconsin on behalf of Cliff Stearns of Florida.

Ms. EDWARDS. The Chair recognizes the Honorable L.F. Payne of Virginia.

Ms. EDWARDS. Thank you all for these really wonderful insights, anecdotes, and celebration of the Article I branch. You have given us the perfect setting as FMC commences the America250 programing. I now recognize Barbara Comstock, again, for concluding remarks.

Ms. EDWARDS. Thank you so much, Barbara, for this report. Most importantly, thank you for your thoughtful and exemplary leadership of the FMC. The Chair again wishes to thank the Former Members of the House for their presence here today. On behalf of FMC, I thank all the congressional staff who have helped make today's presentation every year possible. You have been a terrific resource, and we really appreciate all you have done. The meeting stands adjourned.

Mr. EDWARDS

Mr. EDWARDS. Mr. Speaker, this year's NDAA strengthens America's military readiness. It invests in cutting-edge defense capabilities. It ensures our servicemembers have the training, tools, and support they need to confront the growing threats that we face at home and abroad. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my strong opposition to the NDAA provision that seeks to circumvent the established merit-based process for Federal Tribal recognition and instead grant unchecked Federal recognition to the Lumbee community. I am proud to represent North Carolina's 11th District, home of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, a sovereign Tribal Nation whose culture, language, and history are a treasure not only to the State of North Carolina but to the United States as a whole. The Eastern Band of Cherokee are the descendants of those who fought to remain in their ancestral homelands in the face of forced Federal removal. By contrast, it must be noted that the Lumbee community has no treaties with the Federal Government, no reservation land, and no common language. As Members of Congress, one of our most solemn responsibilities is to ensure that laws are applied fairly, objectively, and consistently. For over 40 years, the Department of the Interior through the Office of Federal Acknowledgement has carried out a rigorous merit-based process for determining Federal Tribal recognition. This process was created by Congress to prevent political favoritism or arbitrary decisionmaking as it requires careful documentation and verification, including proof of Native American ancestry. Bypassing this process, as is suggested through this NDAA, by including the Lumbee Fairness Act as an amendment, sets a dangerous precedent. It would invite other groups with unsubstantiated claims to sidestep this process and seek recognition through political channels rather than merit. That undermines the integrity of the recognition process, and it threatens the credibility of Indian Country as a whole. The OFA has found that some petitioning groups consisted entirely of individuals unable to demonstrate Native American ancestry, not a single person. Recognizing these groups would be a disservice to legitimate Tribes. In the case of the Lumbee, this amendment would in one stroke create the largest Tribe in the country, granting immediate access to already overstretched Bureau of Indian Affairs and Indian Health Service resources. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I am proud of the work that we have done to provide robust funding for the Indian Health Service and other critical priorities for federally recognized Tribes in the fiscal year 2026 Interior appropriations bill. If the Tribal population eligible for these services suddenly grows by tens of thousands of people, many of whom have no native ancestry, resources will be spread too thin, and the Tribes with established rights will suffer. That is the crux of the issue. If the Lumbee had a case that could withstand the scrutiny of the OFA process, they would go through the OFA process as set out by law. But as they know, it won't hold up under a deliberative process. They sought special treatment through the legislative shortcuts, despite opposition from more than 140 federally recognized Tribes from across the country that have stated the integrity of this process must be preserved, and I agree. Recognition should be earned on the merits, not granted through politics. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to oppose this provision and uphold the process put in place by Congress decades ago to ensure fairness and integrity in Federal Tribal recognition.

Mr. EDWARDS

Mr. EDWARDS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Annie Clarkson for her work as an intern, serving in my D.C. office. I would like to take this opportunity to thank her for her hard work and recognize the meaningful contributions she has made to the office this fall. Interns work with staff to serve constituents in North Carolina's 11th congressional district. Annie was chosen from a competitive pool of applicants and exceeded every expectation with her positive attitude and impressive work ethic. It was a pleasure to work with Annie, and I am so proud to have had such an intelligent and ambitious intern representing my office. Annie resides in Washington, D.C. and is a recent graduate of the University of Richmond. Annie is entering a position with a market research firm, where she will be working as a Business Development Representative. Annie exemplified the spirit of public service and represents the best that our Nation has to offer. I congratulate Annie on the successful completion of her internship and thank her on behalf of the people of Western North Carolina.

Mr. EDWARDS

Mr. EDWARDS. Mr. Speaker, it is an extraordinary privilege for me today as we gather to honor a remarkable servant of God, Dr. Ralph H. Sexton, Jr., a beloved pastor, evangelist, and community leader from Asheville, North Carolina, on this momentous occasion to celebrate his fiftieth year in ministry. Fifty years. That's half a century of preaching the Word, shepherding souls, comforting the brokenhearted, celebrating life's joys, and standing firm in times of trial. From his very first sermon preached to his most recent prayer whispered, Dr. Sexton has lived out the calling described in 1 Peter 5:2, ``Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, watching over them . . . not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be.'' And that is exactly what he has done--not out of duty, but out of love: love for God, love for the Gospel, and love for His people. Dr. Sexton was born on January 17, 1947, to Ralph H. Sexton. Sr., and Jacqueline Sexton, and was educated in the public schools of Asheville, North Carolina. He graduated from Lee Edwards High School in 1965 and continued his education at Trevecca College in Nashville, Tennessee, the University of North Carolina at Asheville, and the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. He later received a Doctor of Divinity from Bethany Theological Seminary in Dothan, Alabama, and has been awarded multiple honorary degrees in recognition of his lifelong devotion to faith and service. Ordained in 1975, he began his service at Trinity Baptist Church in Asheville, North Carolina, where he has faithfully ministered for nearly five decades. Let us commend him for mentoring his grandson, Winston Parish, who is destined to continue the legacy at Trinity. In 1980, he entered the field of full-time evangelism, leading crusades, revivals, and seminars across the United States and in nations including Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt, Honduras, Haiti, Germany, and the Bahamas. Through the years, Dr. Sexton has done more than deliver sermons; he has built bridges between generations and nations. He baptized new believers, married couples, mourned with families, and stood as a steadfast presence in our community and around the world. He's taught us that faith is not just preached on Sundays--it is lived out every day, in every act of kindness, every word of encouragement, every prayer whispered on someone else's behalf. Through that example, Dr. Sexton has strengthened my personal faith in God and motivated me to be a more effective and obedient public servant. We could fill libraries with the stories of lives touched by his ministry--the young person who found direction, the struggling soul who found hope, the family that found faith again. And yet, Dr. Sexton would be the first to remind us that all glory belongs to God. That humility, that unwavering focus on Christ rather than self, is part of what has made his ministry so powerful. A devoted friend of Israel, Dr. Sexton has traveled to the Holy Land more than fifty times, has twice been honored as a guest of the Israeli government, and was invited to observe the Middle East Peace Talks in Washington, D.C. He received the prestigious ``Tree of Life'' Award and served on the Committee to Relocate the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem. His service to the community extends far beyond the pulpit. In 1994, the City of Asheville honored him with ``Ralph Sexton Day'' for his disaster relief efforts. He is a recipient of the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the highest honor a citizen of North Carolina can receive, and was named an Honorary Attorney General of the State. He has been an active member of the Asheville Kiwanis Club, a life member of the Downtown Optimist Club, and a certified special deputy with the Buncombe County Sheriff's Department for more than 30 years, where he now serves as Chaplain. He also organized the ``Family Values March'' in Asheville, which drew more than 20,000 participants. Dr. Sexton's devotion to family and faith has been the foundation of his life. He shared over 50 years of marriage with his late wife, Muzette, and together they raised three children, were blessed with many grandchildren, and had great-grandchildren. Today, let's thank Dr. Sexton for his sacrifices, his patience, his wisdom, and his unwavering belief in God's promises. Let's thank him for every late-night hospital visit, even' wedding and funeral, every Bible study and mission trip. And we thank him for showing us, by example. what a life wholly devoted to God looks like. May the Lord bless him abundantly in this next chapter of his journey, and may he hear those words we all long to hear one day: ``Well done, good and faithful servant.''

Mr. EDWARDS

Mr. EDWARDS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commend the extraordinary service of the iHeartRadio Asheville team to the people of Western North Carolina during and after Hurricane Helene. Under the steady leadership of Brian Hall, and through the tireless efforts of broadcasters such as Mark Starling, Tank Spencer, Eddie and Amanda Foxx, and many others, iHeartRadio Asheville became a lifeline for our mountain communities. Their around-the-clock coverage reunited families, connected neighbors with life-saving resources, and delivered accurate, timely updates when our region faced one of its darkest hours. Western North Carolina is stronger today because of the courage and dedication of these broadcasters. Their work is a powerful reminder of the vital role that local journalism and community-centered broadcasting play in times of crisis. On behalf of the people of North Carolina's 11th District, I extend my deepest gratitude to iHeartRadio Asheville for being a steady voice of truth, comfort, and resilience when our communities needed it most.

Mr. EDWARDS

Mr. EDWARDS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Yancey County residents Jackie Thomas, Alyssa Styles, and Makayla Thomas for their extraordinary service and selfless dedication in the devastating aftermath of Hurricane Helene. When disaster struck and resources were scarce, Jackie, Director of Yancey County Senior Center stepped forward. Under his leadership, the Senior Center became a hub for first responders working around the clock across the county. Recognizing the urgent need, Jackie organized meal preparation and distribution directly from the center, ensuring that our first responders had the strength and sustenance to continue their lifesaving work. In the days that followed, Makayla and Alyssa arrived at the Senior Center seeking supplies. Seeing the effort underway, they immediately volunteered to help. Together, this small but determined team worked 18-hour days preparing meals, coordinating supplies, and supporting both first responders and neighbors in need. Their service was essential to the emergency response and serves as a shining example of the resilience and generosity that defines Yancey County. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in expressing our deep gratitude to Jackie, Makayla, and Alyssa for their leadership, compassion, and sacrifice. Their commitment to service reflects the strength of Yancey County and all of Western North Carolina. In honoring these remarkable individuals today, we also celebrate the enduring spirit of resilience that continues to sustain and strengthen our mountain communities.

Mr. EDWARDS

Mr. EDWARDS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the selfless service of line apprentice, Nathan Curlee of Buncombe County. As a line apprentice, Mr. Curlee is typically responsible for assisting linemen in the installation, maintenance, and repair of electrical power systems; however, after the devastating damage left in the wake of Hurricane Helene, Mr. Curlee took on additional responsibilities to restore power to Western North Carolina. Mr. Curlee, in collaboration with Journey Lineman Matt Martinka, became aware that the Veteran Affairs (VA) Hospital of Asheville needed restored power. Mr. Curlee and Mr. Martinka hiked 1.5 miles through the mountainous terrain of Western North Carolina to analyze the problems and restore power to the VA Hospital. Mr. Curlee viewed restoring power to the VA Hospital as his way of giving back to the veterans for their years of service to our country. The men hiked through the dangerous terrain, remaining determined to restore power to the veterans of Buncombe County. In addition to Nathan Curlee's electrical expertise, his integrity, service, and humble attitude deserve the recognition and applause of Western North Carolina and the United States. On behalf of all of Western North Carolina, I would like to take a moment to sincerely thank Nathan Curlee for his service to Duke Energy customers. I especially commend his exceptional efforts in restoring power to the veterans of Asheville, North Carolina in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

Mr. EDWARDS

Mr. EDWARDS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to selfless service Linemen Matt Martinka of Duke Energy. Mr. Martinka is a Journeyman Lineman in the Asheville area working for Duke Energy, a leading energy company that focuses on delivering electricity and natural gas services to the citizens of North Carolina. Mr. Martinka, along with apprentice lineman Nathan Curlee, were single handedly responsible for restoring power to the Asheville Veterans Affairs (VA) Hospital after the catastrophic events of Hurricane Helene. Hiking over a mile and a half through flooded roads, fallen trees, and a devastated landscape, Mr. Martinka demonstrated remarkable dedication and perseverance to restore power to the VA hospital. Mr. Martinka is a veteran from a multi-generational military family, including his father, grandfather, son, and nieces, and embodies a lifelong commitment to service. Upon learning that power could be restored to the hospital, Mr. Martinka didn't hesitate to act. The people of Asheville have since expressed their deep gratitude, commending Mr. Martinka for his unparalleled courage and selflessness. On behalf of all of Western North Carolina, I would like to take a moment to sincerely thank Mr. Martinka for his dedication and service to his community and to those who have served our country in uniform.

Mr. EDWARDS

Mr. EDWARDS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Matt Yeakley, and his wife Morgan, for their extraordinary service and leadership during the aftermath of Hurricane Helene in Marshall, North Carolina. When Hurricane Helene struck, downtown Marshall was left heavily damaged, with streets blocked, buildings impacted, and the community in urgent need of coordination and support. From the very first morning after the storm, Matt and Morgan stepped forward without hesitation to organize and lead the town's volunteer cleanup efforts. Matt focused on heavy equipment and debris cleanup, while Morgan coordinated volunteers and addressed medical needs. Drawing on their leadership skills and deep knowledge of the community, Matt and Morgan quickly established a volunteer coordination hub in front of the courthouse. They identified critical areas needing attention, organized volunteers into specialized teams, and ensured every person, local or visiting, had a meaningful role to play in the recovery. Their calm demeanor and logistical efficiency transformed a chaotic and uncertain situation into a coordinated, effective response. The safety and productivity of every cleanup crew were always a priority. Volunteers from across the region praised Matt and his wife for their clarity, professionalism, and kindness. Thanks to their tireless efforts, downtown Marshall was cleared and stabilized within days, allowing businesses owners and residents to access their properties and begin their own recovery efforts. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in expressing our appreciation to Matt and Morgan Yeakley as their dedication, humility, and leadership during this time of crisis exemplify the very best of community service.

Mr. EDWARDS

Mr. EDWARDS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the extraordinary service and leadership of Madison County's Ms. Deanna Ponder in the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Helene. When Hurricane Helene devastated our communities, access to fuel was critical to sustaining emergency operations. Without hesitation, Ms. Ponder stepped forward to operate the Madison County School Bus Garage fueling station, ensuring that first responders could continue their vital work. For 17 days following the storm, Ms. Ponder personally managed the fueling of essential vehicles and equipment including firetrucks, ambulances, county maintenance vehicles, law enforcement fleets, and mobile command centers. She gave tireless effort to her community, delivering more than 20,000 gallons of fuel to power generators supporting light towers, shower camps established by Samaritan's Purse, law enforcement operations, and other critical services. Her dedication kept recovery efforts moving day and night, under challenging conditions, and provided a lifeline for the community when it was needed most. Ms. Ponder's contributions went far beyond logistics. Her leadership, calm presence, and unwavering commitment inspired those around her. First responders and volunteers repeatedly praised her clarity, efficiency, and selfless dedication. Through her efforts, she helped create an organized and reliable system that allowed others to focus on saving lives, restore essential services, and begin the process of rebuilding. Her actions serve as a powerful reminder that leadership is not always about holding a title, but it is about stepping forward, recognizing a need, and acting with courage and compassion. Madison County, and all of Western North Carolina, are stronger today because of her extraordinary efforts. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in expressing our deepest appreciation of Ms. Ponder's outstanding service and unwavering dedication to her community. Her service embodies the very best of resiliency, selflessness. and dedication in the face of disaster, and she stands as an inspiring example for us all.

Mr. EDWARDS

Mr. EDWARDS. 1 year ago, western North Carolina was slammed by the worst storm to ever hit our region. To many across the country, we thought that this might have been just another segment on nightly news programs or an article in our local paper, but for those of us who call western North Carolina home, it meant so much more. In our mountain communities, waters crested above 30 feet; winds peaked at over 100 miles an hour; and 1,500 landslides destroyed hundreds of homes and many communities. Over 1,300 roads were blocked by damage and debris. There were 1.2 million citizens left without power. Mr. Speaker, 108 North Carolinians lost their lives. Over the last year, our mountain communities have overcome unimaginable obstacles with grit and determination. I couldn't be prouder that, as a community, we have come back together, not as individuals, but as neighbors, friends, and family. Rebuilding hasn't been easy, but very few things that are worth doing are easy. Come Helene or high water, western North Carolina will rebuild. I am so proud of the resiliency of the people of the mountains.

Mr. EDWARDS

Mr. EDWARDS. Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. Valadao from California for his leadership on Modernizing All Veterans and Survivors Claims Processing Act. This important legislation streamlines the VA claims process, helping veterans and their families receive the benefits that they have earned and deserve. I am especially grateful to Mr. Valadao for his collaboration in including my bill, the Justice for America's Veterans and Survivors Act, in this package. My legislation improves how the Department of Veterans Affairs collects and reports data on the causes of death among veterans with a particular emphasis on accurately identifying when suicide is a primary or contributing factor. The mental health crisis among America's veterans has reached an alarming level. Suicide is now the second leading cause of death for veterans under the age of 45. Despite ongoing efforts, the Department of Veterans Affairs struggles to accurately track and report veteran suicides. This not only hinders the development of effective policies but deprives survivors and families of the support that they have earned and deserve. Currently, the VA relies on county-level reporting that fails to identify veteran status in nearly one in five cases. Additionally, many self-harm deaths such as drug overdoses are excluded from suicide data. The Justice for America's Veterans and Survivors Act fixes that issue by requiring the VA to publish an annual report on causes of death among veterans and it clarifies when suicide is a primary or a secondary cause, including in cases of self-harm related deaths. Proper cause-of-death reporting ensures families have access to the benefits and resources that they are entitled to, and understanding the full scope of the veteran suicide crisis is essential to creating effective policies to save lives. Mr. Speaker, I urge a ``yes'' vote on this legislation.

Mr. EDWARDS

Mr. EDWARDS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my deepest gratitude for the Greenville-Spartanburg NOAA/NWS team's exceptional service during and after Hurricane Helene, one of the most devastating extreme weather events in recent history. In September of 2024, as Helene approached, the Greenville- Spartanburg NOAA/NWS team rose to meet an unprecedented challenge. Even before the storm made landfall, the mountains were saturated with six to ten inches of rainfall, setting the stage for life-threatening flash floods and landslides. When Helene struck, their ability to accurately forecast this complex, multi-phase event and deliver timely, targeted warnings was critical in saving lives and reducing property damage. Their proactive approach demonstrated innovation, precision, and an unwavering commitment to public safety. The issuance of sixteen flash flood emergencies, a record for the region, reflected their urgency and clarity in communication. These alerts, combined with clear guidance, helped thousands of residents take protective action just in time. Just as vital was their collaboration with emergency responders, schools, media, and community organizations. This coordination amplified their life-saving messages and ensured widespread access to accurate, up-to-date information during the storm's most dangerous hours. Their service during this disaster is a testament to the critical role federal agencies play in disaster response. The Greenville- Spartanburg NOAA/NWS team has set the gold standard in preparedness, communication, and interagency cooperation that will guide future emergency responses across the country. On behalf of all of Western North Carolina, I thank Greenville- Spartanburg NOAA/NWS for their outstanding dedication to keeping our communities safe.

Mr. EDWARDS

Mr. EDWARDS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Margaux Sauvage, for her work as an intern serving in my D.C. office. I would like to take this opportunity to thank her for her hard work and recognize the meaningful contributions she has made to the office this summer. Margaux is from San Diego, California and attends Georgetown University. Margaux is entering her second year at Georgetown where she plans to study Global Business and National Security. Interns work with staff to serve constituents in North Carolina's 11th Congressional District. Margaux was chosen from a competitive pool of applicants and exceeded every expectation with her positive attitude and impressive work ethic. It was a pleasure to work with Margaux, and I am so proud to have had such an intelligent and ambitious intern representing my office. Margaux exemplified the spirit of public service and represents the best that our Nation has to offer. I congratulate Margaux on the successful completion of her internship and thank her on behalf of the people of Weston North Carolina.

Mr. EDWARDS

Mr. EDWARDS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Cabe Monroe Lambert, the last living World War II Veteran of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians. Mr. Lambert was born on September 25, 1926, and currently lives in the Wolftown community on the Qualla Boundary in Cherokee, North Carolina. Mr. Lambert is deeply loved by his community and family. As a member of the greatest generation, Mr. Lambert answered the call of the free world and served in the United States Army during World War II. While in combat, Cabe Monroe Lambert fought the Axis Powers that were advancing across independent, sovereign countries. Mr. Lambert prevented forces with evil intent from reaching our great country and liberated countless people. We owe a debt that we can never repay but will always remember and honor. Without brave men and women like Mr. Lambert, our world would undoubtedly be a much darker place. Mr. Lambert served in the Asiatic Pacific Theater of Combat Operations where our troops not only halted the Japanese advance, but pushed them back island by island, freeing the inhabitants of those communities. It is my distinct honor to acknowledge the service of Cabe Monroe Lambert to the United States of America and to our world.

Mr. EDWARDS

Mr. EDWARDS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Aniyah Yattassaye, for her work as an intern serving in my D.C. office. I would like to take this opportunity to thank her for her hard work and recognize the meaningful contributions she has made to the office this summer. Aniyah resides in Seattle, Washington and attends Wake Forest University. Aniyah is entering her third year at Wake Forest where she is studying Political Science and international. Interns work with staff to serve constituents in North Carolina's 11th congressional district. Aniyah was chosen from a competitive pool of applicants and exceeded every expectation with her positive attitude and impressive work ethic. It was a pleasure to work with Aniyah, and I am so proud to have had such an intelligent and ambitious intern representing my office. Aniyah exemplified the spirit of public service and represents the best that our Nation has to offer. I congratulate Aniyah on the successful completion of her internship and thank her on behalf of the people of Western North Carolina.

Mr. EDWARDS

Mr. EDWARDS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Margaux Sauvage, for her work as an intern serving in my D.C. office. I would like to take this opportunity to thank her for her hard work and recognize the meaningful contributions she has made to the office this summer. Margaux is from San Diego, California and attends Georgetown University. Margaux is entering her second year at Georgetown where she plans to study Global Business and National Security. Interns work with staff to serve constituents in North Carolina's 11th congressional district. Margaux was chosen from a competitive pool of applicants and exceeded every expectation with her positive attitude and impressive work ethic. It was a pleasure to work with Margaux, and I am so proud to have had such an intelligent and ambitious intern representing my office. Margaux exemplified the spirit of public service and represents the best that our Nation has to offer. I congratulate Margaux on the successful completion of her internship and thank her on behalf of the people of Western North Carolina.

Mr. EDWARDS

Mr. EDWARDS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the lifelong service of Commissioner Dwight Penland of Clay County. Mr. Penland is the longest-serving commissioner in Clay County history, with a tenure of nineteen years. Before his time on the Board of Commissioners, Mr. Penland served eight years on the Clay County Board of Education. In total, Commissioner Penland has spent 27 years at the helm of local public policy in Clay County, serving as a voice of reason and unyielding advocate for his community. Mr. Penland grew up in Bell Creek, a community in Clay County. The youngest of five sons to father JD Penland and mother Hazel Penland, Mr. Penland graduated from Hayesville High School in 1978, where he volunteered as the middle school girls' basketball coach. Even at a young age, Mr. Penland's passion and commitment to serving the children of Clay County is evident. He went on to become a successful local businessowner in Hayesville, where he served the needs of his customers and helped grow the Clay County economy. Commissioner Penland and his wonderful wife, Leonia ``Sissy'' Penland, have two grown children, Jarrod and Jadrian. Clay County has achieved remarkable milestones under Commissioner Penland's leadership, including the construction of a new courthouse, public health department, Department of Social Services, and Department of Transportation facility to enhance government administration. Additionally, Commissioner Penland oversaw the construction of a new sheriff's office, detention center, Emergency Medical Services building, 911 call center, recreation center, primary school, and Veterans Park to ensure the health, safety, and wellbeing of Clay County residents. On behalf of the people of Clay County and Western North Carolina, I thank Commissioner Penland for his lifelong service to our wonderful home and our deserving people.