Political Quotes

“To the distinguished chairman of the subcommittee, my friend from Massachusetts (Mr. Lynch), and to the minority member who is managing the bill--and I do not recall your name right now and I apologize for that--thank you very much for allowing us to have this time today. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize a friend, the late Elmer V. Wilkins, who was an outstanding educator, mayor, councilman, State board of education member, and a lifelong North Carolinian. {time} 1215 In North Carolina, we remember E.V. as one with a strong philosophy of tolerance and civic responsibility and educational achievement. Because of his public service, I introduced this bill to name the United States Post Office located in Roper, North Carolina, as the ``E.V. Wilkins Post Office.'' Thanks to the overwhelming support of the entire North Carolina delegation--and I understand that Mr. Etheridge, who is my colleague from North Carolina, may be on the floor in a few minutes, and they were, of course, friends--we are one step closer to this bill becoming a reality. The people of Roper, North Carolina, and throughout the county of Washington and even the surrounding counties deeply appreciate this naming opportunity. Elmer Vanray, ``E.V.,'' Wilkins was born on Independence Day of 1911, and to many who knew him, this was no coincidence. He was a staunch defender of constitutional rights and would become a well-known voice for civil rights and voting rights for every citizen. E.V.…”