[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 22 (Wednesday, March 2, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E339]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               IN COMMEMORATION OF COATS, NORTH CAROLINA

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BOB ETHERIDGE

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, March 2, 2005

  Mr. ETHERIDGE. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in commemoration of Coats, 
North Carolina. On March 5, 2005 Coats will celebrate its l00th 
Birthday. Coats is located in the Eastern part of my home county, 
Harnett County in the 2nd Congressional District of North Carolina. 
Coat's humble beginning is especially personal to me as my great, great 
Uncle James T. Coats bought the first acres of farmland that would grow 
to become this warm and hospitable Southern community.
  Coat's history is rich with individuals like my uncle, who envisioned 
a town where future generations could work, live, and raise their 
families in the bright light of America's promises. I think of Ed 
Williams and John Talton who were among the first entrepreneurs to 
establish stores in Coats. I think of John McKay Byrd, a former sheriff 
of Harnett County, who contributed greatly to the industrial life of 
the community. And I think of the first mayor, J.K. Stewart who when 
elected installed the first electric lights in the town.
  Coats has never strived to be an urban hub, more comfortable with its 
small town population of only 1,900. Yet, its residents are proud of 
their community. As a former Harnett County Commissioner, I have always 
enjoyed a special connection to the people of Coats, NC. It is a place 
rooted in appreciation for one's family, faith, and country. The Town 
of Coats and its residents exemplify the common-sense values of North 
Carolina that I am so proud to represent in Congress.
  Mr. Speaker in closing I would like to send my best wishes and 
gratitude to the people of Coats, North Carolina in wishing them a Very 
Happy Birthday. I know that in the future this town will continue to be 
``a good place to live and make a living.''

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