[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 34 (Friday, February 28, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E278]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING THE TORNADO VICTIMS AND SURVIVORS OF MENIFEE COUNTY, KENTUCKY

                                  _____
                                 

                             HON. ANDY BARR

                              of kentucky

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, February 28, 2014

  Mr. BARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the victims and the 
surviving families of Menifee County on this second anniversary of the 
devastating EF3 tornado that ravaged eastern Kentucky.
  On March 3, 2012, Kentuckians were devastated by the worst storms in 
almost 25 years, affecting at least 27 counties. The storms were 
responsible for injuring over 300 people and taking the lives of 20 of 
our loved ones in the Commonwealth.
  Today, I would like for us to especially remember three of those 
individuals from Menifee County: Beverly Bowman, Vershal Brown and 
Anita Smith. May their memories continue to live in our hearts forever.
  I would also like to recognize the resilience of the residents of 
Menifee County as well as many of the surrounding counties that have, 
without question, suffered much.
  The Bible promises us in Psalm 147:3 that ``He heals the 
brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.'' The people of Frenchburg and 
communities across the Commonwealth have renewed this hope and promise 
of healing. This catastrophic event has reminded us that when tragedy 
strikes, it strikes in the hearts of us all.
  It is a testament to the character and compassion of Kentuckians that 
individuals from all across the Commonwealth were willing to step in 
and help so that the victims of these storms did not have to carry the 
burdens alone.
  In the face of adversity, communities find a way to come together. 
Over the last two years, the citizens of Menifee have banded together, 
leaned on each other and come out of this tragedy stronger than ever.

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