Richard Hudson

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 270, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Sheriff J.B. Roberts who served the people of Cabarrus County, North Carolina from 1956 to 1982. He passed away on Monday, May 9, 2016 after complications from an injury he sustained while working on the family farm. We send our prayers and sincerest condolences to his entire family as they celebrate the life of this extraordinary man. Except for his time at Mars Hill College and a stint in the Navy during WWII, Sheriff Roberts spent his entire life living and working on his farm in Midland, NC. During the war, he served his nation on the U.S.S. Yorktown as a trainer on one of the ship's five-inch guns. Roberts' service took him to several major engagements in the Pacific theater including the Battle of Coral Sea and the Battle of Midway where he spent several hours in the water before his rescue when the Yorktown was sunk. As Sheriff of Cabarrus County, Roberts earned the respect of everyone he worked with. Never one to sweat the little things, he was known as a selfless, humble, and incredibly hardworking man. He continued to serve as a mentor and role model for the next generation of public servants even after his retirement. Almost everyone that knew Sheriff Roberts could share a story of how he impacted their life in one way or another. You would be hard pressed to find a man who was more admired by the people he served than Sheriff Roberts. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in commemorating the life of Sheriff J.B. Roberts for his service to God, country and his community.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of All American Week at Fort Bragg, the epicenter of the universe. This week recognizes the 82nd Airborne Division stationed at Fort Bragg which will be celebrating their 99th Anniversary this summer. To kick off the week, more than 15,000 paratroopers participated in a four mile run led by Maj. Gen. Richard D. Clarke, who is the 82nd Airborne Division's commanding general. They were joined by dozens of veterans who cheered on the participants from the sidelines. This year's event was particularly special because of the large number of paratroopers who were able to attend. However, we remember and celebrate the approximately 3,000 paratroopers that are currently deployed around the world and were unable to participate. During All American Week, paratroopers and veterans will be joined by their loved ones in a week full of events that celebrate the rich history and legacy of the 82nd Airborne Division; ranging from picnics and reunions to a memorial ceremony remembering those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Our men and women in uniform reflect the best our nation has to offer and events like these are an important way to honor their commitment. The paratroopers of the 82nd Airborne Division are the tip of the spear and maintain a constant state of readiness, able to be deployed in a moment's notice to defend our nation. I am eternally grateful for the sacrifice of these brave patriots and am honored to serve them in Congress. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in celebrating All American Week at Fort Bragg honoring the 82nd Airborne Division

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, on roll call no. 222 I was inadvertently detained. Had I been present, I would have voted Yes.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, North Carolina is a proud, strong military State. We are proud of the men and women who answer the call and risk their lives to protect us. I never, ever want them to be in a fair fight. I want them to always have the tools, the equipment, and the training needed to dominate and destroy the enemy. That is why I filed an amendment with my colleague, Renee Ellmers, to protect training of paratroopers at Fort Bragg, the epicenter of the universe. As you may know, the Air Force has moved forward with plans to deactivate the 440th Airlift Wing. This deactivation puts these young paratroopers, and indeed our very national security, at risk, as evidenced by the failure of the Air Force to meet current training requirements. For the sake of our national security, this amendment is absolutely critical to hold the Air Force accountable and to ensure our rapid reaction forces are prepared for deployment at a moment's notice. I urge my colleagues to support it.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ms. Rebecca Goddard for being named a PBS LearningMedia Digital Innovator. This distinction celebrates teachers from across the country who successfully integrate technology into the classroom as part of a dynamic approach to student learning. Ms. Goddard, or ``Becky'' as she is known by her colleagues, spends her days challenging the minds of our youngest generation of students at Bostian Elementary School in China Grove, North Carolina. Her unique approach to the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields allows students to engage in these high-demand subject areas while tying into classroom teachings. In her role as a technology facilitator, she is able to work across ages and subjects by engaging students with activities that include Legos, robotics, coding, and more. As part of her recognition as a Digital Innovator, Ms. Goddard will have the opportunity to participate in professional development opportunities including virtual training sessions, custom PBS LearningMedia resources, and various networking opportunities. She will also travel to Denver, Colorado to attend the PBS LearningMedia Digital Summit and the International Society for Technology in Education conference. I have no doubt that she will use these opportunities to bring back new and innovative ideas to North Carolina. This year, the Digital Innovators Program had a record number of applicants representing almost every state in the country, making Ms. Goddard's selection even more impressive. As one of the 52 teachers chosen in the program, she joins a special group who is on the cutting edge of classroom technology. Our community is fortunate to have Ms. Goddard dedicate her time and talents to educating our students. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in congratulating Ms. Goddard for being named a PBS LearningMedia Digital Innovator and wish her well as she continues to make a positive difference in the lives of her students.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Corporal William Steele Winesett, who passed away peacefully on May 4, 2016 in Lumberton, NC. We send our prayers and sincerest condolences to his entire family as they celebrate the life of this extraordinary man. After graduating from Plymouth High School in Plymouth, NC, Corporal Winesett joined the United States Marine Corps to serve his country during World War II. As a machine gunner in the Pacific theater, he took part in Operation Detachment as U.S. Marines landed on and captured the island of Iwo Jima. The lessons and experience brought to him through his military service stayed with Corporal Winesett and he remained fiercely proud of his service throughout his life. Following the conclusion of the war, Corporal Winesett returned to North Carolina and attended East Carolina University. Afterwards he joined General Motors Insurance, and after 33 years he retired to spend more time with his beloved wife, Lola. A true pillar of the community, Corporal Winesett was a leader in the Boy Scouts of America, volunteering with the same troop for 50 years. He also remained an active member and devoted parishioner of the Rowland United Methodist Church where he took great pride in maintaining the lawn for all to enjoy. Corporal Winesett was a man founded in principle and faith in God and will be truly missed. Mr. Speaker, please join me in commemorating the life of Corporal William Steele Winesett for his service to God, country, and his community.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the brave men and women who faithfully serve in North Carolina's 8th District as law enforcement officers. In 1962, Congress established National Police Week to pay our respects to officers who died in the line of duty, as well as those who continue to serve. This is a week for all of us to join together and show support for these heroes in blue. It is because of their tireless--and sometimes unnoticed--work that we remain safe in our homes. Their commitment to our community deserves our gratitude and appreciation, and their service is an example to all of us. As Representative of North Carolina's eighth district, I'm committed to making sure our law enforcement officers have the tools needed to do their jobs. Just last week, the House passed five bills supporting our law enforcement community, including legislation to protect our police forces' access to bulletproof vests and enable them to carry their firearms when off-duty. Mr. Speaker, these brave men and women continue to serve our communities year after year, and it's important to offer them our sincere gratitude. I ask my fellow Americans, to join me in reflecting on the sacrifice of our fallen officers, honoring those who are currently serving, and saying a big thank you to these heroes and their families.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Edna Lanier who passed away on April 17, 2016, at the age of 99. Throughout her life Mrs. Lanier was a fixture in the community of Lexington, North Carolina, and she will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. I send my prayers and sincerest condolences to Mrs. Lanier's family and friends during this difficult time. By all accounts, Mrs. Lanier was the embodiment of what a North Carolinian should be--she was devoted to her family and friends, kind to every person she met, and passionate about making her community a better place for all to live. Throughout her life, Mrs. Lanier had a giving-spirit and wanted to share her knowledge and experiences with those around her, which led to her mentoring young women in her spare time. She was deeply committed to her faith and was an active member of the First United Methodist Church. Mrs. Lanier was also a passionate sports fan, especially of her beloved University of North Carolina Tar Heels. Mrs. Lanier was also a small business owner and a prominent member of the Lexington Area Chamber of Commerce. In 1940, Mrs. Lanier and her husband, Ardell, opened Lanier Hardware, which has been a fixture in uptown Lexington since the day it opened. Because Mr. and Mrs. Lanier were partners in everything they did, whether it was in business or in their everyday lives, she helped run the hardware store and would do all of the bookkeeping and accounting. They also started Standell Properties, a local real estate business. In addition to their successful business ventures in Lexington, the Laniers were actively involved in philanthropic efforts to help others in the community, working with local programs like the Lexington Civitan Club, the Davidson Prison Ministry and the West Davidson Public Library. Mrs. Lanier was often recognized by organizations in Lexington for her devotion to her community and the impact she had on the area. Among her many awards, Mrs. Lanier was recognized by the Lexington Chamber of Commerce as the 2006 ``Outstanding Woman of the Year.'' Mr. Speaker, please join me today in remembering the life of Edna Lanier and celebrating her legacy that benefited so many in the town of Lexington, and the state of North Carolina.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Wound Care Center at Carolinas HealthCare System NorthEast, located in Concord, North Carolina, for earning the Robert A. Warriner III, M.D., Center of Excellence award from Healogics. The dedicated team at the Wound Care Center should take pride in this significant achievement, and the people of Cabarrus County should take comfort in knowing they have such a distinguished group of individuals providing high-quality healthcare in our community. The Wound Care Center opened its doors in July of 2012, and has been providing excellent care to the people of our area ever since. In order to earn the Robert A. Warriner III, M.D., Center of Excellence award, the Wound Care Center had to achieve an average patient satisfaction rating of 92 percent, as well as a healing rate of at least 91 percent within a 30-day period. In addition to reaching these high standards, the Wound Care Center had to maintain their performance over a 12-month period. Earning this award is truly a reflection of the staff at the Wound Care Center who are able to provide such exceptional service on a consistent basis. What is even more impressive is the fact that this is the third consecutive year the Wound Care Center has earned this honor, which is an astonishing feat. By continuing to focus on the patients they are serving, the Wound Care Center at Carolinas HealthCare System NorthEast is able to continually provide the highest quality of care and customer satisfaction in the field of wound healing. Each member of the team is fully invested in developing a personal connection with patients on their road to recovery. This patient-centered approach should be championed as a model for all medical centers in North Carolina and across the country. With nearly six million people affected by problem wounds across the country at any given time, wound care centers remain an important part of our health care system. There is no doubt in my mind that Wound Care Center at Carolinas HealthCare System NorthEast will continue to be a leader in this crucial field. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in congratulating the entire team at the Wound Care Center at Carolinas HealthCare System NorthEast for earning the Robert A. Warriner III, M.D., Center of Excellence award.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 180, I was inadvertently detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of my dear friend Mr. Gervais Oxendine and to commemorate the legacy of service to North Carolina he left behind. Mr. Gervais Oxendine (``Mr. Gervais'' as he was affectionately referred to by folks in Robeson County) was born on August 18, 1943 in Robeson County. After growing up in the area and attending Pembroke State College (now UNC Pembroke), Gervais was commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Navy. He served his country for four years during the Vietnam War aboard the USS Forrestal. Mr. Gervais' lifetime of service to our country continued even after his enlistment ended. His son, Eric Oxendine, is currently a U.S. Navy Captain. Gervais was also an integral member of the Lumbee Warriors Association, a local non-profit group that helps veterans across the region who are struggling with PTSD. Additionally, Gervais was a lifetime member of VFW Post 2843 in Pembroke. Gervais was a successful businessman, working more than 32 years in key management positions for Abbott Laboratories. Gervais played an important role in the company's expansion into the Caribbean, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, and received Abbott Lab's President's Award on four separate occasions. More than any of his notable career or military accomplishments, folks across North Carolina knew Gervais as a man who fought fiercely for Robeson County and the Lumbee Native American Tribe. Mr. Gervais served on the UNC Pembroke Board of Trustees for eight years, during which time he worked closely with North Carolina Board of Governors officials to advocate for UNCP. He was also a key leader for issues facing the Lumbee Tribe, and aggressively supported efforts for federal tribal recognition, along with additional state and federal resources for his people. Mr. Gervais was seen as the go-to-guy in Robeson County when it came to turning political ideas into real policy reforms to help the region. He was one of my first supporters in the area, and I'll never be able to repay the debt of gratitude I owe for his friendship and counsel over the years. I'm going to dearly miss my friend, Gervais Oxendine, but I know his legacy will live on through his wonderful wife, Dr. Olivia Holmes Oxendine, his two sons and three grandsons. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in commemorating the life of Mr. Gervais Oxendine for his service to Robeson County and his commitment to bettering the lives of everyone in our community and state.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, it's no secret that I'm a huge supporter of NASCAR. In fact, I'm fortunate to represent Charlotte Motor Speedway, ``The Rock'' in Rockingham, many NASCAR teams, and the best fans in the world. That's why I'm here today to pay tribute to NASCAR champion, Kannapolis, North Carolina native and my all-time favorite driver, Dale Earnhardt. ``The Intimidator'' would have been 65 years old today, and I want to ask my fellow North Carolinians and racing enthusiasts to join me in celebrating his life and career. A legend on and off the track, Dale lived the American Dream. He came from humble beginnings in Kannapolis, North Carolina and worked hard to become one of NASCAR's greatest heroes. He earned seven NASCAR Winston Cup championships, tying ``The King,'' Richard Petty. And through his success, he remained a man of the people who always gave back to the community he loved. From his debut at Charlotte Motor Speedway in 1975, to his last NASCAR championship that he secured with a win at ``The Rock'' in 1994, to his final laps at the Daytona 500--battling to keep two cars he owned in the lead--Dale faced every obstacle and opportunity with unmatched courage, passion, determination and a tremendous sense of humor. There's no question that Dale Earnhardt left a lasting impression on motorsports, on our community, and on NASCAR fans like me. Happy birthday, Number 3.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the City of Lexington Electrical Department for earning a ``Platinum'' Reliable Public Power Provider (RP3) designation from the American Public Power Association (APPA). The ``Platinum'' RP3 designation establishes the Lexington Electrical Department, located in Lexington, North Carolina, as one of the most reliable and high-quality public power providers in the nation. For the past seven years, the City of Lexington Electrical Department has been recognized by the APPA as an industry leader with a ``Gold'' level designation. However, with this ``Platinum'' designation, the Lexington Electrical Department joins an elite group of only 29 utility providers nationwide that have earned this impressive distinction. In order to be recognized as a ``Platinum'' provider, the provider must earn a score between 90 and 98 percent of the possible points across all scoring metrics used by the APPA. The City of Lexington accomplished this goal by excelling in the four RP3 disciplines established by the APPA: reliability, safety, workforce development, and system improvement. The Lexington Electrical Department has become a recognized leader not only in the state of North Carolina, but across the entire country. Their innovative workforce training programs should serve as an example of how to prepare employees to meet the ever-growing demands of the 21st century. They have also demonstrated an unwavering commitment to providing high-quality services to the people of Lexington by engaging in public-service projects like the proactive tree trimming project, resulting in a significantly reduced number of power outages during this year's winter storm season. The people of Lexington should be comforted to know their utility needs are being provided by one of the finest utility departments in the entire nation, and should be proud of the staff at the Lexington Electrical Department who worked so hard to earn this distinguished honor. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in congratulating the hardworking members of the City of Lexington Electrical Department for earning the American Public Power Association's ``Platinum'' Reliable Public Power Provider designation.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Phillip E. Sloop for earning the National American Legion Certificate. This certificate was awarded to Mr. Sloop for his 70 years of continuous service in American Legion Post 115, located in Kannapolis, North Carolina. It is an honor to thank Mr. Sloop for his brave and selfless service to our nation. After graduating from high school in 1934, Mr. Sloop took a job at Cannon Mills, a local textile company, until he was drafted into the Army Air Corps in April of 1941. Just a few months into his service, the attack on Pearl Harbor occurred on December 7, 1941 and changed the course of Mr. Sloop's life. Once the United States entered World War II, Mr. Sloop was sent to Australia and joined the 436th Army Signal Construction Battalion as part of the 5th Air Force. While in Australia, he was responsible for installing communication lines in support of the Allied efforts in the Pacific theater. His service in the Pacific extended nearly five years before the eventual conclusion of the war. Upon his return home to North Carolina, he returned to his job at the textile mill and joined American Legion Post 115, where he has remained an active member for 70 years. I am overjoyed that the American Legion recognized Mr. Sloop for his service during World War II and his participation in the American Legion. The men and women in uniform who have answered the call to defend our nation represent the best our country has to offer and they deserve our continued admiration. Opportunities like this serve as a reminder that we must never take the service and sacrifice of our veterans for granted, and that we as a nation must continually find ways to recognize these heroic patriots for their unparalleled dedication to protecting our freedom. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in congratulating Phillip E. Sloop for earning this distinguished honor, and thanking him for his service and dedication to our country.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Robin Cummings and congratulate him on his official installation as the sixth Chancellor of the University of North Carolina at Pembroke. As Representative of North Carolina's Eighth District, I'm proud to represent Robeson County and UNC Pembroke in Congress. There is no doubt in my mind that Chancellor Cummings is a perfect fit for this university. His leadership and service to North Carolina in numerous capacities--in health care, in state government and in volunteer service--has positioned him well for this role. With his knowledge and broad experience, Dr. Cummings will promote and grow the university while meeting the unique challenges facing our community. As Chancellor, Dr. Cummings has already made an incredible impact and helped foster an institution that offers students a pathway to a career, that empowers faculty and staff to be successful, and that provides our community an institution to be proud of. In addition, Dr. Cumming's love for our community and the university is unmatched. As a Pembroke native and member of the Lumbee tribe, he has the community's best interest at heart. Under his guidance, UNC Pembroke will continue to lead the way in strengthening our economy, supporting job creation and improving the quality of life for people all across Southeastern North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating Chancellor Robin Cummings for his prestigious accomplishment. We wish him, his wife Rebecca and his four children, Amy, Mark, David, and Adam well as Chancellor Cummings undertakes this role and continues to serve Robeson County and UNC Pembroke.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Ruth Revels who passed away on March 14, 2016, at the age of 79. Throughout her life, Mrs. Revels was an unwavering advocate for the Lumbee Tribe and American Indians in the state of North Carolina, and she will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. I send my prayers and sincerest condolences to Mrs. Revels' family and the entire Lumbee Tribe during this difficult time. Mrs. Revels was born in Robeson County, North Carolina during the 1940's, a period that was marked by segregation and the unequal treatment of minority communities, including American Indians. Her personal experiences during her childhood, along with her desire to help young people reach their full potential, inspired Mrs. Revels to become a teacher at her former high school, Pembroke High School, which at the time was the only school in the area where Indian students could attend. She later went on to teach at Ragsdale High School in Jamestown, North Carolina for 14 additional years. Mrs. Revels was a recognized leader in the state of North Carolina for her lifelong efforts on issues important to the Lumbee Tribe and American Indians. In addition to becoming the Executive Director of the Guilford Native American Association, where she served for over 20 years, Mrs. Revels was a member of the North Carolina Commission of Indian Affairs since 2003. In a testament to her leadership on this issue, Governor Pat McCrory appointed Mrs. Revels as the Chairwoman of the Commission in 2013. Mrs. Revels was a pillar of the American Indian community in North Carolina, and her work will long be remembered for having a profound impact on many generations. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in remembering the life of Ruth Revels and celebrating her legacy that undoubtedly offers American Indians in North Carolina a brighter and more prosperous future.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Jay M. Robinson High School Bulldogs for winning the North Carolina High School Athletic Association (NCHSAA) 3A Men's Basketball Championship on March 12, 2016. The Bulldogs won the game by a score of 59-55, finishing the season with an impressive 29-3 record. The season could not have started better for the Bulldogs, who entered the 2015 HighSchoolOT.com Holiday Invitational tournament having won their first eight games and were playing fantastic team basketball. However, the Bulldogs lost two of the three games they played during the tournament and lost another game just a week later in overtime. Many teams would not be able to regroup after such a disappointing stretch of games, but these Bulldogs are not like many other teams. The team rallied around one another to win every remaining game during their regular season, winning the South Piedmont Conference championship, and earning a berth in the NCHSSA 3A Men's Basketball Tournament. After battling through five challenging games in the tournament, the Bulldogs met Terry Sanford High School, the defending state champions, in the state championship game. What was an entertaining contest quickly turned into a character-defining moment for the Bulldogs. With only fifteen seconds left in the game, the Bulldogs took their first lead of the second half and defended their basket as Terry Sanford made one final attempt to tie or win the game. After a third shot from Terry Sanford missed the mark, both teams franticly scrambled to secure the rebound. With less than one second left in the game, a Bulldog came up with the rebound and was immediately fouled by a Terry Sanford player. During the ensuing scuffle between the teams after the foul, a fan ran onto the court and struck Jay M. Robinson's Rashon Gray in the head. Rather than escalate the situation and retaliate, the Bulldogs once again rallied around one another. The Bulldogs hit two free throws to clinch the victory and secure the state championship. This moment was a microcosm of the Bulldogs' entire season and the young men who worked so hard to earn this championship. Whenever the Bulldog's faced adversity, the players and coaches never wavered from their commitment to the team and kept their eyes on their goal of capturing Jay M. Robinson's first 3A Championship. In addition to their talent--led by three 1,000 point scorers--the Bulldogs time and again showed the chemistry and mental toughness needed to become champions. Needless to say, this season will long be remembered by the Bulldogs' players, coaches and fans. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in congratulating the Jay M. Robinson High School Men's Basketball team for winning the 2016 NCHSAA 3A Championship. I look forward to the Bulldogs defending their title next season.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to my dear friend, mentor, and former colleague, Congressman Howard Coble. Howard was a proud son of Greensboro, who for 30 years served the people of North Carolina's Sixth District with honor, integrity, and kindness. While he is no longer with us, we will always remember Howard fondly. We miss his unique style, including madras jackets, colorful suspenders, and distinctive hats, his humble sense of humor and his personality that drew people to him. As a matter of fact, Howard never met a stranger, and he set a standard for legendary constituent service. His constituents knew they had a friend in Congressman Coble. I work every day to live up to that example. Howard's 85th birthday would have been tomorrow. I want to ask my colleagues and my fellow North Carolinians to join me in celebrating his remarkable life. It was a privilege to get to know Howard Coble, to call him a friend, and to continue his legacy of service to the people of North Carolina. I know there will be no shortage of celebration in Heaven tonight. Happy birthday, Congressman Coble.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I object to the vote on the ground that a quorum is not present and make the point of order that a quorum is not present.

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, pursuant to clause 1, rule I, I demand a vote on agreeing to the Speaker's approval of the Journal.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Carolina Panthers Quarterback Cam Newton, who was named the 2015 National Football League Most Valuable Player (MVP). In his fifth season at the helm of the Carolina Panthers offense, Cam has become one of the NFL's best players and has established himself as a leader his teammates trust and depend upon. Throughout the season, Cam played a crucial role in the team's success. With Cam as quarterback, the Panthers were one of the best offenses in the league--averaging over 30 points per game--and set a franchise record for most wins in a regular season after winning 15 of their 16 games. Cam also led the Panthers to their second NFC Championship with a commanding 49-15 victory over the Arizona Cardinals, completing 19 of his 28 passes for 335 yards and two touchdowns while also scoring two touchdowns running the football. This performance demonstrated Cam's importance to the team and is a clear example of why he deserved the league's MVP award. In addition to his outstanding performance and exceptional leadership on the field, Cam has been an active member of the community and has made public service an important priority in his life. Shortly after arriving in the NFL, he established the Cam Newton Foundation to help the young people of Charlotte, and in his hometown of Atlanta. Through this foundation, Cam has been able to provide many young people the resources and support they need to pursue their childhood dreams and ambitions. While Cam earned this award by distinguishing himself as one of the most gifted players in the game today, and his dedication to helping others and serving as a role model to young people across the country further exemplifies why he is a champion both on and off the field. I look forward to seeing Cam back on the field next season, building off this historic season and further establishing himself as one of the most elite quarterbacks in the game. Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating Carolina Panthers Quarterback Cam Newton for being named the 2015 NFL MVP, and thanking him for his continued service to the people of our community. Go Panthers and Keep Pounding!

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor my hometown team, the Carolina Panthers, for representing the National Football Conference in Super Bowl 50 after winning the NFC Championship. I would like to congratulate the entire Panthers organization on this outstanding accomplishment and thank them for the excitement the team brought the entire Panthers fan base this season. Before this NFL season started, few people expected the Carolina Panthers to win enough games to seriously compete for a spot in the postseason playoffs. However, Head Coach Ron Rivera and star quarterback Cam Newton led the Panthers to victory in 15 of their 16 games during the regular season, making the Panthers only the seventh team in NFL history to win 15 games and set a franchise record for the most victories in a single season. In the postseason, the Panthers hosted the NFC Championship in Charlotte for the first time in the franchise's history and earned a spot in the Super Bowl for only the second time since the team organized in 1995. Needless to say, this was a fantastic season that will long be remembered by the players, coaches and fans. While the team's success on the football field this season is certainly extraordinary, what is even more impressive about the Carolina Panthers is the culture of the organization. The Carolina Panthers are one of the most highly respected organizations in the National Football League; filled with high-character individuals who continually display an active commitment to community service. A great example of their community-centered focus is the grant fund the Carolina Panthers established after the historic flooding that took place in South Carolina during October of 2015. This fund awarded $250,000 in grants to assist 19 high school athletic departments in the region repair or replace damaged or lost athletic equipment, supplies and infrastructure. This is just one of the many ways the Carolina Panthers give back to their community through charitable acts and community service programs. In addition to their long list of charitable acts and dedication to serving the community off the field, the Carolina Panthers are frequently recognized as having players and coaches who play the game with character and integrity. This year alone, several players have been recognized for their sportsmanship and leadership on the field. Cam Newton was recognized as the league's Most Valuable Player and Thomas Davis, a linebacker on the Panthers' defense, was awarded the Bart Starr Award, given to a player who exemplifies character and leadership on and off the field. Head Coach Ron Rivera was also recognized as the league's Coach of the Year and was honored by the Panthers for two consecutive years as its Salute to Service Award nominee. This award is given by the NFL in partnership with the United Services Automobile Association to a member of the NFL community who demonstrates a commitment to honor and support members of the armed services, veterans and their families. Clearly, the Carolina Panthers are a first-class organization both on and off the field. This can be attributed to one man, Carolina Panthers' founder and owner Jerry Richardson. Mr. Richardson is the epitome of dignity and class, and is one of the finest men I have ever known. In everything he does, Mr. Richardson carries himself as a true professional and Southern gentleman. He always looks for opportunities to give back to the community he loves and to assist those who are in need. Mr. Richardson is a loyal and patient man who genuinely cares about those who work for him, and I would argue he is one of the finest owners in NFL history. Without Mr. Richardson, there would be no Carolina Panthers and the success this franchise has achieved on the field and the superior culture established within the organization would not be possible. There is no one more deserving of this championship than Mr. Richardson, and I look forward to him leading the Carolina Panthers to even greater success in the future. Mr. Speaker, please join me again in congratulating the Carolina Panthers for their NFC Championship victory, and thanking Mr. Richardson and the entire Panthers organization for their tireless efforts to better our community. Go Panthers and Keep Pounding!

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Carolina Panthers Head Coach Ron Rivera, who was named the National Football League Coach of the Year for the second time in three years. Coach Rivera did an outstanding job this year leading the Carolina Panthers, and he should be extremely proud of this impressive distinction he has so rightly earned. Before this NFL season started, few people expected the Carolina Panthers to win enough games to seriously compete for a spot in the postseason playoffs. However, Coach Rivera never let the detractors get in the way of preparing his team to focus only on the challenge directly in front of them. What happened over the course of the season is almost unbelievable, even to the most devoted Panthers fans. The Panthers won 15 of 16 games during the regular season, making the Panthers only the seventh team in NFL history to win 15 games, and set a franchise record for the most victories in a single season. In the postseason, the Panthers hosted the NFC Championship in Charlotte for the first time in the franchise's history and earned a spot in the Super Bowl for only the second time since the team's first season in 1995. Needless to say, this was a fantastic season that will long be remembered by the players, coaches and fans. Coach Rivera deserves much of the credit for the Panthers' success this year, and this award is a testament to the outstanding job he did preparing for each game and putting his players in the best position to achieve success. While he already had a reputation as a tough player and as one of the top defensive minds in the sport, I believe this award, along with the continued success of the Panthers during his tenure as head coach, shows Coach Rivera is quickly becoming known as one of the finest coaches in the game. Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating Carolina Panthers Head Coach Ron Rivera for earning the 2015 NFL Coach of the Year award. I look forward to seeing Coach Rivera build upon this historic season and further cement the Panthers' status as one of the best teams in the NFL. Go Panthers and Keep Pounding!

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, on roll call no. 102 I was inadvertently detained and missed the vote on H.R. 4238. Had I been present, I would have voted Yea.