[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 164 (Thursday, October 12, 2017)]
[House]
[Page H7979]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
HONORING THE MANY ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF STUART EPPERSON
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from
North Carolina (Ms. Foxx) for 5 minutes.
Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize North Carolina Fifth
District constituent, Mr. Stuart Epperson, whose work has positively
affected so many in North Carolina and so many across this great
Nation.
Stuart, or ``Stu,'' as his friends know him, is living proof that not
only is the American Dream possible, it is achievable if you are simply
willing to work hard for it. Stu's story is a model one for all.
{time} 1015
Growing up on a small tobacco farm in Virginia, Stu learned hard work
and perseverance. In the 1980s, Stu and his brother-in-law started the
Salem Media Group to minister to and report positive news to families
across the country.
Under his leadership, Salem Media Group and Salem Radio now host 120
radio stations, 67 of which are in the top 25 markets, and operate
2,400 affiliates.
Mr. Speaker, at a time when many Americans opt to turn off the news
due to the negative content, Mr. Epperson's audience is tuning in to be
inspired and to be informed.
The content put forth by the Salem Media Group serves as a beacon of
hope to the many families seeking positive and instructive stories.
Mr. Speaker, when I consider the body of Mr. Epperson's work, I am
reminded of the parable of the faithful servant in Luke 12:48. The Good
Book tells us that: ``For unto whomsoever much is given, of him much
shall be required. . . . `'
The Lord has certainly gifted Mr. Epperson with some amazing
abilities, and in return, Mr. Epperson has used these talents to give
back to multiple community activities.
Among those activities are the Winston-Salem Rescue Mission, Salem
Pregnancy Care Center, One Kid at a Time mentoring program, and the
Christian Association of Youth Mentoring, which he founded.
Finally, Mr. Speaker, I am sure that Stu would agree that the adage
``behind every good man is a good woman'' is a true one for him. Stu
married the love of his life, Nancy Etsinger Epperson, 54 years ago.
This lovely couple has 4 children and 21 grandchildren.
I commend Stu Epperson not only for his many accomplishments but also
for his dedication to ensuring that radio remains family-friendly and
value-focused. In recognition of Stu's life and work, I am pleased to
announce that soon Stu will be receiving the highly coveted Vision and
Leadership Award from the Family Research Council. This award is justly
deserved by such an accomplished man, and I add my salute to him.
I know that the community in Winston-Salem, this Nation, and the
wider world have benefitted from Stu Epperson's many efforts to make
the world a better place. I commend Mr. Epperson on his many
accomplishments and his service to our Nation.
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