On 2024-12-11, Representative Ben Cline (R-VA-6) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING THE HEROIC ACTIONS OF CARTER NICELY" in the House. The speech addressed healthcare and also covered taxes, labor policy.
RECOGNIZING THE HEROIC ACTIONS OF CARTER NICELY Congressional Record, Volume 170 Issue 184 (Wednesday, December 11, 2024) [Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 184 (Wednesday, December 11, 2024)] [House] [Page H6809] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING THE HEROIC ACTIONS OF CARTER NICELY The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Cline) for 5 minutes. Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the courageous actions of 16-year-old Carter Nicely from Alleghany County who heroically saved the lives of his family as their home was engulfed in flames earlier this year. As dawn broke, Carter was awakened by an extraordinary heat. Attempting to turn on his bedside lamp, he quickly realized the electricity was out. Without hesitation, he sprang into action, rushing to warn his parents, Anthony and Kristin Nicely, and his younger brother, Brody, of the imminent danger. Thanks to Carter's swift actions, his family was able to evacuate their home safely, though they tragically lost everything in the fire. In recognition of his bravery, the Sharon Fire and Rescue team awarded Carter a lifesaving award, a commendation they have only bestowed once before. Mr. Speaker, I, once again, congratulate Carter Nicely on his quick thinking and decisive action which undoubtedly saved lives. Celebrating Strasburg Presbyterian Church's 200th Anniversary Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Strasburg Presbyterian Church as it proudly celebrates 200 years of service. The church was founded in 1824 by a small, dedicated group of Christians under the leadership of Reverend Dr. William Henry Foote, a Princeton graduate who came to the Shenandoah Valley to provide English language services for residents primarily speaking German. Notably, Strasburg Presbyterian is the only church in town to withstand the Civil War, even serving as a hospital for wounded Confederate and Union soldiers after the pivotal battles of Cedar Creek and Fisher's Hill. Today, under the guidance of Reverend David Howard, the church goes beyond traditional worship and Sunday school. It actively participates in community initiatives such as blood drives, Bible studies, pancake breakfasts, and spaghetti dinners. With 90 active members, many of whom are multigenerational families, Reverend Howard envisions a bright future for the church, embodying the spirit of community service with the belief that ``it is about putting your community before yourself.'' Mr. Speaker, I thank the Strasburg Presbyterian Church for its unwavering commitment to service and hope the church continues to bless our community for another 200 years. Celebrating the Roanoke Star's 75th Anniversary Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate a beacon of hope and community pride in my district: the Roanoke Star. It was on the eve of Thanksgiving in 1949 at exactly 8:22 p.m. when a star was illuminated for the first time atop the most prominent mountain in the heart of the city of Roanoke, Virginia. What began as a Christmas decoration, this man-made metal star has now become an enduring symbol of our community spirit for 75 glorious years. Built by Roy Kinsey of the Kinsey Sign Company for $28,000, this impressive structure towers 88.5 feet tall, proudly visible from as far away as 60 miles. With 2,000 feet of neon tubing ready to shine in red, white, and blue, the Roanoke Star is not just any star; it is the largest freestanding illuminated star in the world. Visitors come from countless places to witness this treasured landmark, take in the breathtaking view of the Roanoke Valley, explore scenic trails, or enjoy the nearby Mill Mountain Zoo. The Roanoke Star is recognized on both the National Register of Historic Places and the Virginia Landmarks Register, reminding us of our heritage and commitment to preserving our history. As we mark this 75th anniversary, let us celebrate the Roanoke Star's significance in Virginia's Sixth District, and may it continue to shine as a welcoming beacon for all who visit. ____________________