On the recordSeptember 8, 2016
Mr. Speaker, more than 250,000 people were without power. Ten-foot storm surges destroyed homes. Lives were lost. This is what my hometown and north Florida has experienced in the past week as a result of Hermine, the first hurricane to strike Florida in 11 years. It was one of the worst storms ever to hit north Florida, but throughout all the devastation and destruction, we also witnessed community, kindness, and love, or what I like to call the north Florida way. Organizations like the Red Cross and Salvation Army sheltered and fed those in need. Churches opened their doors to those suffering, and neighbors took in neighbors to help give them respite and relief from the heat. Mr. Speaker, it will take weeks and months for us to recover from this storm, but today I want to recognize and thank all organizations, volunteers, workers, and people who have helped us all in our time of need. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. We are truly grateful. ____________________
