WASHINGTON— Congresswoman Renee Ellmers (R-NC) surveyed storm damage in Lee, Harnett and Johnston Counties on Sunday after volunteering at a Red Cross shelter in Wake County Saturday night. 

"The stories of those I have met while surveying damage from the tornadoes that tore through the state this weekend have moved and inspired me," Ellmers said.  "The devastation so many have experienced is heartbreaking, but the stories of the individuals and groups that have come to the aid of their neighbors are uplifting."

"My thoughts and prayers continue to be with those who have experienced so much loss as a result of these storms -- especially those who have lost loved ones," Ellmers continued.

Ellmers also participated in a conference call with FEMA on Sunday.  "Many times today I was relieved that we were not also dealing with the additional uncertainty that a government shutdown would have produced and was thankful that my vote helped prevent that," Ellmers said.

Ellmers will be touring additional damage sites across the district throughout the coming week. Updates and photographs will be posted at ellmers.house.gov and www.facebook.com/reneeellmers throughout the week.

Congresswoman Ellmers' District Office in Dunn was undamaged in the storms, but did lose power.  Electricity has now been restored and the office will be open at 8 a.m. on Monday.    

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