Richard Hudson

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Kannapolis Middle School North Carolina History Quiz Bowl Team for their victory in the 2017 History Quiz Bowl. This year, the team of Katie Messick, Robert Le, Tanner Sims, Raegan Koon, and Kandace Davis took home the top prize after beating five other squads in the competition. Originally sponsored by the state in a partnership with various historic sites, the Quiz Bowl pits local eighth graders against each other to test their knowledge of North Carolina and national history. After the 2008 recession, the state cut funding for the event but a few dedicated teachers kept the competition alive. Now the competition operates as a community-based event showcasing exceptional students from both public and private schools. This year's event brought a host of talent and I am extremely proud of all of the students who participated. As a history major myself, I have a deep appreciation for both our state and nation's history and I am glad these students share the same passion. I am also thankful for the teachers and volunteers who made the event possible. I look forward to many more years of a successful competition and wish all the students well as they continue their academic pursuits. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in congratulating the Kannapolis Middle School History Quiz Bowl Team on their accomplishment.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, on roll call no. 186, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted Aye.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Moore County Chamber of Commerce as we celebrate its 50th Anniversary. Thanks to the hard work of the countless individuals involved with this organization, Moore County has never been a better place to live, work, or visit. Established in 1967 as the Southern Pines Area Chamber of Commerce, this organization has long stood for the advancement of civic, cultural, and economic prosperity. By engaging with local leaders, the chamber has created a successful model for integrating businesses and the community they serve. Members continually choose to invest their time and money into the development of a better business environment for current and future generations. There is no doubt in my mind that Moore County is a better place today thanks to their Chamber of Commerce. The hardworking men and women at the Chamber have continued to provide their members with the resources they need to grow and thrive in an ever-changing economic climate. As a result, businesses continue to choose Moore County as the place they want to reside in order to be successful. I look forward to maintaining a close relationship with the Chamber and its members as we work together to create a better future for all folks across Moore County. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in recognizing the Moore County Chamber of Commerce on its 50th anniversary and wishing them continued success in the years to come.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Master Police Officer Edward B. Ashworth for his 28 years of dedicated service to our community. Growing up in Kannapolis, North Carolina, Officer Ashworth has always had a profound sense of duty to his community and fellow man. In 1989, he began his career of public service as a Patrol Officer for the Kannapolis Police Department. Twenty years later, he was transferred to the newly restructured Traffic Unit where he continued his service for the rest of his career. Throughout his career, Officer Ashworth has exhibited a deep dedication to this community and we are fortunate to have had him as a leader for all these years. His accomplishments during his time on the force include being named the St. John's Grange Number 729 Officer of the Year in 2013 and the Rowan Optimist Officer of the Year in 2014. Furthermore, he has earned several certifications as an instructor and holds an Advanced Law Enforcement certificate from the N.C. Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission. Officer Ashworth has also remained an active member of the community outside of his career by volunteering his time to give back to others. A member of the Piedmont Baptist Church, Officer Ashworth dedicates his time to helping the less fortunate through their missions program. He is a man of principled values and strong faith who continues to embody the true meaning of public service. It is my hope that Officer Ashworth will enjoy his retirement and remain a role model for all of those he has helped over the years. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in honoring the career of Master Police Officer Edward B. Ashworth for his service to our community and wishing him well as he begins the next chapter of his life in retirement.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Wendell Young for his service as a noncommissioned officer in the United States Army during World War II. Mr. Young fought across Europe as part of the 2nd Cavahy Regiment's reconnaissance squadron, earning a host of awards and commendations including two Silver Stars. A native of Rutherford County, North Carolina, Mr. Young was drafted into the Army in 1943. A year later he was deployed to the European Theatre where he served under the legendary General Patton. As the war raged on, Mr. Young saw action throughout France, Germany, Belgium, and Czechoslovakia. He played a part in the Allied victory at the Battle of the Bulge and led an effort to liberate a prisoner of war camp that was housing a large number of both American and Russian troops. During this mission, he earned both of his Silver Stars by exemplifying tremendous personal courage and selflessness to accomplish his objective. In the citation for one of those awards, he was acknowledged for his daring and heroism as an outstanding noncommissioned officer. Furthermore, he was presented the Russian Medal of Courage, making him one of the only Americans to ever receive this honor. Following the war, Mr. Young returned to North Carolina where he started a family and began a career at the N.C. Cooperative Extension. After 31 years with the Cooperative Extension, he retired and now works part-time for the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Mr. Young is a living example of the American spirit, a man who answered the call of our nation in its time of need. As one of the dwindling number of WWII veterans, his story is one that needs to be cherished and shared so that we may continue to learn from their example. Mr. Young personifies both courage and patriotism and there is no doubt that he is part of the Greatest Generation, It is my hope that Mr. Young will continue to share his story so that we will never forget the lessons of his sacrifice. I wish Mr. Young and his entire family well, and thank him for his service. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in recognizing the incredible legacy of Mr. Wendell Young.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 114 through 117, 120, 121, 123, and 126, I was unable to cast my vote in person due to an unexpected illness. Had I been present, I would have voted ``Yea.''

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 109 through 113, 118, 119, 122, 124, and 125, I was unable to cast my vote in person due to an unexpected illness. Had I been present, I would have voted ``nay.''

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, on roll call No. 106 through 108, I was unable to cast my vote in person due to an unexpected illness. Had I been present, I would have voted Nay.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, on roll call no. 105, I was unable to cast my vote in person due to an unexpected illness. Had I been present, I would have voted Yea.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 74 and 75 I was unable to cast my vote in person due to an emergency dental procedure. Had I been present, I would have voted ``Yes.''

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Josh Airheart for his service to Boy Scout Troop 59 in Concord, North Carolina. Mr. Airheart has served as Scoutmaster of Troop 59 for 15 years and will soon be retiring from the position. Having lived in Cabarrus County his entire life, Mr. Airheart has established himself as a staple of our community. He is a lifetime member of New Gilead Church, home of Troop 59, where he began his own scouting career many years ago. In 1987, Mr. Airheart earned the rank of Eagle Scout, showcasing his own commitment to service. Beginning in 2002, Mr. Airheart returned to Troop 59 as Scoutmaster. Recognizing the significant impact scouting had on his own life, he began to share his passion with the young men of the troop. The troop then continued to blossom under his guidance as he helped an impressive 26 members achieve the rank of Eagle Scout. In 2015, he was recognized for his efforts by the Central North Carolina Council as Scoutmaster of the Year. Along the way, Mr. Airheart has been a living embodiment of the Scout Oath, showing the young men of the troop how to integrate it in everything they do. While he may be leaving his official capacity with Troop 59, I know he will continue to be a role model for all of those in our community. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in recognizing Mr. Josh Airheart for his dedication and commitment to service as Scoutmaster of Troop 59.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the career of Mr. Scott Graves the pride of Bronte, Texas. For more than 12 years, Scott has been a leader in the field of agriculture policy and helped shape a better vision and future for our nation. Since coming to work as an intern on Capitol Hill, Scott has demonstrated his ability to master complex policy issues and work with members and staff to craft unique solutions. He continually equips members of the House Committee on Agriculture, and the Republican Conference as a whole, with the knowledge and resources we need to serve the American public. His leadership of the Agriculture Committee has positioned them for tremendous success as they begin to reauthorize the Farm Bill this Congress. I have known Scott for many years and have always known that he was someone I could count on to get the job done. Scott and I worked together for two years and he succeeded me as Chief of Staff to Mr. Conaway from Texas. I think fondly on the time we spent together and am proud of what we accomplished. I am even more proud of the character of the husband, father, and colleague I now simply call friend. Personally and professionally Scott is fun to be around, and he makes everyone around him better. There is no doubt that Scott will be sincerely missed, but I am excited for what the future holds for this extraordinary public servant. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in recognizing the impressive career of Mr. Scott Graves and wishing him well as he, Haley, and Bronte begin the next chapter of their lives.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Crispy's Bar and Grill for their service and contributions to our community. I would like to congratulate owner Greg Helmandollar on the success of the restaurant and its upcoming inclusion on the Travel Channel's Food Paradise, a show which highlights some of the most unique restaurants in the country. Located in Kannapolis, North Carolina, Crispy's is a local favorite that features a twist on traditional southern comfort foods and isn't for the faint of heart. Almost everything on its legendary menu is wrapped, covered, or topped with crispy bacon. Since Crispy's opened in 2015, it has been a popular spot for people to gather to connect and share in their love of bacon. Mr. Helmandollar first began pushing the limits of bacon in 2013 when he created the MasterBacon food truck. After receiving an overwhelming response from the community, he opened Crispy's to expand his offerings and push the boundaries on how many things he could possibly pair with bacon. The menu now contains almost every treat imaginable including bacon wrapped pecan pie, lasagna, and even ice cream sprinkled with bacon. By following his passion, Mr. Helmandollar has created a brand and achieved success. More importantly, he is a shining example of the American spirit and the type of small business owner that makes our community special. His innovative approach should be an example to others to follow their dreams and pursue what makes them happy. I look forward to joining the nation in watching Food Paradise when their episode airs. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in congratulating Mr. Helmandollar and his staff on their continued success and wishing them well in the new year.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Charlotte Motor Speedway for being named the Race Track Business Conference's ``Outstanding Facility of the Year.'' I am proud to represent Charlotte Motor Speedway in Congress, and I want to congratulate Marcus Smith and his entire team for making this premiere track such an incredible asset for our community. Built in 1959, Charlotte Motor Speedway has become one of the crown jewels of the racing community. Each year, the speedway plays host to three premier NASCAR events--the NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race, the Coca- Cola 600, and the Bank of America 500--as well as more than three dozen other events for fans of all ages. The ``fans first'' mentality that has been embodied by the team since their earliest days has allowed them to create an atmosphere that is unrivaled in the motorsports world. While the 1.5 mile long superspeedway may be the largest attraction, the entire Charlotte Motor Speedway complex expands nearly 2,000 acres and features a multitude of racing options including a 2.25 mile road course and the zMAX Dragway. The variety of racing options and top notch accommodations make any trip to the speedway a special occasion. It is no wonder the track continues to receive high praise from competitors and fans alike year after year. The efforts of all of those at the speedway have made it a truly special place both in motorsports and our local community. There is no doubt in my mind that Charlotte Motor Speedway will continue to provide a unique experience for everyone that visits, and it is my hope its leadership team will continue the innovative approach that has brought so much success to our community. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in congratulating Charlotte Motor Speedway on earning this impressive distinction and well-deserved honor as the ``Outstanding Facility of the Year.''

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Kannapolis Fire Department as they celebrate their 100th anniversary. Since its earliest days, the Kannapolis Fire Department has served the people of Kannapolis, North Carolina with steadfast dedication and a commitment to excellence. As the City of Kannapolis expanded to the thriving community it is today, the fire department has provided more than just emergency services. The men and women of the department have been a staple of this city and actively engaged with its citizens for a hundred years. Never one to shy away from a challenge, this historical department even gained international recognition in 1934 when it set multiple world records for the speed of its reel race teams. Today, it brings me great honor to recognize the countless men and women who have served throughout the years as members of the Kannapolis Fire Department. This year alone, the Kannapolis Fire Department has received more than 6,000 calls and exhibited countless episodes of heroism and kindness. I am extremely proud of the commitment to service the department has shown throughout its history, and I am thankful to have such outstanding professionals in our community. There is no doubt in my mind that the 108 dedicated firefighters and staff have made their community a better place. I look forward to continuing to work with the City of Kannapolis and the Kannapolis Fire Department as we continue to serve the great people of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Kannapolis Fire Department and wishing them well as they continue to serve their community.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Earl ``Moose'' Butler for his 22 years of service as Sheriff of Cumberland County, North Carolina. Growing up in Cumberland County, Sheriff Butler has always had a profound sense of duty to his community and fellow man. In 1964, he began his career of public service as a teacher, followed by his service as a probation and parole officer for the state. He remained at his post at N.C. Probation and Parole until 1994 when he was first elected as Sheriff of Cumberland County. Throughout his career, Sheriff Butler has exhibited his deep dedication to this community and we are fortunate to have had him as a leader for all these years. Among his accomplishments during his time in office was earning the designation as an accredited office by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies. This distinction recognizes departments that have established professional standards and policies that help promote accountability to the community they protect. Cumberland County was one of the first two sheriff's offices in the state to earn this title. Aside from his professional career, Sheriff Butler has remained an active member of the community, volunteering his time to give back to others. He is a member of several civic organizations, including Masons, and hosts the annual ``Shop with the Sheriff'' event that seeks to assist families in need during the holidays. It is my hope that Sheriff Butler will enjoy his retirement and remain a role model for all of those he has helped over the years. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in honoring the career of Sheriff Earl ``Moose'' Butler for his service to our community and wishing him well as he begins the next chapter of his life in retirement.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Wingate University men's soccer team and congratulate them on their first ever national championship. The Bulldogs earned their first national title in school history by defeating the University of Charleston in the NCAA Division II national title game on December 3, 2016. Led by head coach Gary Hamill, Wingate finished the regular season with a perfect 14-0 record. After suffering a minor setback in the South Atlantic Conference tournament, the team rebounded by storming through the NCAA tournament on the way to the title. Through the five games of the tournament, the Bulldogs did not concede a single goal, which included denying both the first and second ranked offenses in the country anything more than a few attempts on goal. The team finished the year with a nation's best 0.40 goals-against average, proving that defense really does win championships. Wingate had a total of five players named to the All-Tournament team including Jon Ander and Alex Nelson who were named Most Outstanding Offensive Player and Most Outstanding Defensive Player respectively. It brings me great pride to be able to recognize these extraordinary young men as well as all of the coaches and support staff that made this accomplishment possible. The hard work and dedication exhibited by each member of the team during the season will continue to serve them well in life. They are a source of pride to both the university as well as the surrounding community. I wish them well in all of their endeavors and look forward to hearing of their continued success in the future. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in congratulating the Wingate University men's soccer team on their well-deserved national title.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Mrs. Margaret Anne ``Peggy'' Kirk Bell who passed away peacefully in the comfort of her home on Wednesday, November 23, 2016. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Bell family as they mourn the loss of this extraordinary woman. A native of Findlay, Ohio, Mrs. Bell dedicated her life to sharing the joys of golf with those around her. At the age of seventeen, she picked up the sport that would transform her life and define her legacy. Mrs. Bell would go on to establish what has been described as ``one of the best amateur records ever compiled'' before becoming a charter member of the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) and competing for several years professionally. Best known as a teacher of the game, Mrs. Bell's reach expanded around the world as she shared her passion with golfers of all ages and abilities. Her achievements include being named LPGA Teacher of the Year, Golf Digest's ``One of the Six Best Women Teachers in the World,'' and winning the first ever LPGA Senior Championship. Her lifetime of dedication and love for golf was recognized several times including when she received the Bob Jones Award in 1990, which is the United States Golf Association's highest award for distinguished sportsmanship in golf. In 1953, the opportunity of a lifetime presented itself to Mrs. Bell and her husband, Warren ``Bullet'' Bell, when they purchased Pine Needles Golf Course in Southern Pines, North Carolina. From there the couple transformed the golf course to what is today one of the premier golfing destinations in the world. Mrs. Bell quickly became a staple at the resort, taking a hands-on approach to its management and personally investing her time and effort in the lives of its staff and visitors. On any given day at the course you could expect a challenging round of golf and the warmest of welcomes from a smiling Mrs. Bell. Her focus was always to serve others and make certain that everyone was having fun. Compassionate, kind, and loving, Mrs. Bell's impact resonated through the entire sport of golf. She served as both a pioneer of the game and teacher for future generations. To say that she will be missed would be a gross understatement. While we mourn the loss of this extraordinary woman, there is no doubt that her legacy will continue to be celebrated for generations to come. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Bell family, especially her children, Bonnie, Peggy Ann, and my dear friend, Kirk. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in commemorating the life of Mrs. Peggy Kirk Bell.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize LaRhonda Bryson and Jon Putnam of Concord, North Carolina. Their quick decision making and immediate action saved the life of a man who collapsed while working out at the West Cabarrus YMCA located in Concord. Their selfless actions embody the principles of the YMCA and we are extremely fortunate to have these individuals in our community. On June 22, 2016, a member of the West Cabarrus YMCA was running on a treadmill when he suddenly collapsed. Both LaRhonda and Jon instinctively reacted to assist the man. Upon initial examination they discovered the man was not breathing and his pulse had stopped. At this moment, Jon began CPR while LaRhonda applied an automated external defibrillator. Shortly after they delivered a jolt from the device the man's pulse returned and he began breathing again. LaRhonda and Jon remained by the man's side caring for him until paramedics arrived and he was taken to the hospital. It brings me great pride whenever I can share stories like this that showcase the character of individuals in our community. The rapid response of both LaRhonda and Jon is an embodiment of the selfless attitude and commitment to serving others that we should all strive toward. The West Cabarrus YMCA is part of the Cannon Memorial YMCA network. Since its founding in 1908, the Cannon Memorial YMCA has a rich history of serving the people of Cabarrus County and has become a staple of the community. Having served as a member of the West Cabarrus YMCA Board of Directors, I have seen firsthand the quality and commitment to excellence of its employees. Their commitment to the values driven and faith-based approach of the YMCA has made their community a better place as it continues to serve the people in our community. Again, I am extremely proud of all of those at West Cabarrus YMCA and especially LaRhonda and Jon. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in recognizing the actions of LaRhonda Bryson and Jon Putnam for their lifesaving efforts and wishing them well as they continue to serve our community.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Sergeant 1st Class John Mims of the 82nd Airborne Division, a World War II veteran and Bataan Death March survivor who passed away on Sunday, November 27, 2016. Sergeant Mims was a true American hero and our thoughts and prayers go out to his friends and family as they mourn the loss of this great man. When his country needed him the most, it was John Mims who answered the call to serve our great nation. After losing his father when he was young, Mims lied about his age in order to join the Army. At the age of 15, Mims served for nearly a year before the Army discovered his true age and discharged him. However, a few short years later Mims re- enlisted in the Army and headed out to the Philippines to begin his training. After a year in the Philippines, Mims fought alongside his brothers in arms in the Battle of Bataan which culminated in the surrender of 75,000 allied soldiers. The men were then forced to march 65 miles, without food or water, to a prisoner-of-war camp in the Tarlac Province in what became known as the Bataan Death March. One of the greatest atrocities of the entire war, the men suffered beatings, endured torture, and witnessed unimaginable horrors as he faced what can only be described as a living hell. In total more than 10,000 men died during the trek. Following the war, Mims continued his service in the Army, returning to Japan from 1952 to 1954 as sergeant in charge of the Tokyo Quartermaster Depot. After he retired in 1963, he returned home where he worked in a rug factory and a curtain company. Living in Aberdeen, North Carolina, he became an advocate for other veterans and was a constant presence at ceremonies remembering his fallen comrades. His work in the community made certain that the memories of those lost were not forgotten, and it is that legacy which we celebrate today. While we may have lost this great man, his legacy will live on and we will never forget the sacrifices made by Sergeant Mims or any of those who fought to protect our freedoms against unimaginable dangers. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in commemorating the life of Sergeant 1st Class John Mims for his service to God and country.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the incredible career of three-time Sprint Cup Series champion Tony Stewart on his retirement. Tony Stewart, known to his many fans as ``Smoke,'' started his career as a kid go-kart racing. He climbed the ladder one step at a time throughout his 20-year driving career to become the legend he is today. Every time Tony faced an obstacle, he overcame it with unmatched tenacity. He is a reminder to all of us that champions aren't born winners; they are built through hard work, grit, and determination. Tony is driven by that same doggedness off the track, leading Stewart-Haas Racing in my congressional district in Kannapolis, North Carolina, and helping folks in need through the Tony Stewart Foundation. His role might be changing, but I know Smoke's presence at the racetrack and his impact on the sport we love will continue. Renee and I applaud Tony for his outstanding career, and we wish him all the best as he begins this next chapter. Madam Speaker, on behalf of North Carolina's Eighth District and racing fans everywhere, I am proud to say congratulations to Tony-- always a racer, forever a champion.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 985, the Concrete Masonry Products Research, Education, and Promotion Act, which is authored by my good friend and colleague, Representative Brett Guthrie of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, this bill is the product of years of hard work by Members from both sides of the aisle. I am so glad to see it come before the House today. This legislation presents a unique opportunity for the concrete masonry industry to join together for critical research and education. Not just that, it also empowers the industry to fairly and effectively promote the sale of their products. It will lead to better consumer awareness, higher quality and safer building materials, and more jobs. The best part is that this legislation comes at no cost to the taxpayer. These zero-cost opportunities that empower the private sector to come together to do what they do best are just the solutions we need to spur job growth and economic development. I thank Mr. Guthrie for his tireless work on this bill, and I urge my colleagues to support it today.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise to urge my colleagues to support my bill, H.R. 4365, the Protecting Patient Access to Emergency Medications Act. What if your loved one were in a car accident or had a seizure, but the EMS responder who was trained to help couldn't give him the medicine he needed? Under current law, this could be a reality. This is a huge problem, especially in rural communities where access to a hospital is already a challenge. That is why I introduced this commonsense bill with my colleague G.K. Butterfield--to clarify existing law and allow emergency medical responders to continue administering lifesaving medications. Without this bill, patients could suffer simply because Washington hasn't kept up with modern medicine. It is a prime example of government's getting in the way and of the exact type of problem I came here to fix. While today's bill may not be flashy, it solves a problem and it saves lives. It is an example of how to get things done: finding common ground and advancing bipartisan solutions to the problems that face us. Congressional action is immediately needed, which is why I urge my colleagues to support this commonsense legislation. I thank my colleague and friend, Representative Butterfield, for working with me on this in a bipartisan way. I also thank Chairman Burgess, Chairman Upton, and the other leaders of the Energy and Commerce Committee who have helped us bring this bill to the floor.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor one of my favorite bands, the Avett Brothers, who were inducted into the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame on October 20, 2016. With this recognition, the band joins the ranks of the North Carolina music legends including Andy Griffith, Charlie Daniels, and James Taylor. Raised in Concord, North Carolina, Scott and Seth Avett took an unlikely path to becoming the music icons they are today. Never forgetting their North Carolina roots, the band has traveled the world but still holds on to their humble beginnings. Before hitting the ``big time'' the brothers explored every avenue they could to keep their music dreams alive. Whether it was selling shoes, working 20-hour shifts on movie sets, or pedaling grilled cheese sandwiches in the parking lot of Grateful Dead shows they never lost sight of their dreams to connect people through their love of music. Together with Bob Crawford and Joe Kwon, the Avett Brothers have been delivering high energy performances since the turn of the century. From their father's garage to the Late Show with David Letterman the band has captivated audiences with their ability to connect on a human level about shared experiences anyone can relate to. Their unique blend of rock and folk music with a 21st century spin has found a place in the hearts of people all over the world. There is no doubt in my mind that the Avett Brothers are extremely deserving of this recognition and I wish them the best as they tour the country and continue to be a great source of pride for Cabarrus County and all of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in congratulating Scott, Seth, Bob, and Joe--the Avett Brothers--on their induction into the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor racing legend, and my friend, Joseph Riddick ``Rick'' Hendrick III on his recognition as the 2016 Citizen of the Carolinas, presented by the Charlotte Chamber of Commerce. Each year, the Charlotte Chamber recognizes one outstanding individual for their accomplishments and contributions to our community by presenting them with their highest award, the Citizen of the Carolinas. Having lived in Charlotte for nearly 40 years, Mr. Hendrick's impact on local businesses and the surrounding community can be felt throughout the region. Best known for his successes in NASCAR, the Hendrick Motorsports team has been consistently recognized as one of the sport's premier organizations. His laundry list of accomplishments include 14 NASCAR national series championships as an owner, the most all-time, as well as producing some of the most well-known and beloved drivers including Jeff Gordon, Jimmie Johnson, and Dale Earnhardt Jr. Aside from his success on the track, Mr. Hendrick has devoted countless hours to bettering those around him through his considerable charitable work with organizations such as Levine Children's Hospital and Together We Feed Charlotte. In 2015 he set a new fundraising record as Chairman of the Charlotte Observer Summer Camp Fund. Today, giving back to the community remains an integral part of Mr. Hendrick's life. Having grown up in this community, I have been fortunate to see Mr. Hendrick's work first hand. There is no doubt in my mind that he is extremely deserving of this award. I look forward to continuing to work alongside community leaders as we strengthen business and improve the lives of everyone in our community. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in congratulating Rick Hendrick, his wife Linda, and their entire family on Rick's recognition as the 2016 Citizen of the Carolinas.