WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Renee Ellmers released the following statement from her office in Washington this afternoon:

"One year ago, North Carolina suffered from a sudden and devastating outbreak of tornadoes. These storms ripped through our region and caused horrendous damage to homes, businesses, and personal property. But the true scope of this disaster was measured in the lives that were instantly taken away from us and can never be replaced."

"I will never forget visiting the affected areas and meeting with people whose lives were uprooted and changed forever. My instincts as a nurse, wife, and mother guided my thoughts and actions in the hours that followed as my staff worked around the clock to provide up-to-date information and coordinate relief efforts with federal and state officials."

"One year later, our communities continue to rebuild and we can take pride in the new homes and buildings that have been erected. We must continue to remember the 24 individuals that perished in this disaster and honor their legacy through the care and rebuilding of our community."

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For more information, please visit Congresswoman Ellmers’ website at www.ellmers.house.gov or call (202) 225-4531.

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