“Fortunately, at this point there doesn't appear to be much in the way of damage to farm structures. However, these estimates are preliminary, and we won't know the full extent of the damage for several days.”
“We want to collect as many supplies as possible, ... I encourage North Carolina farmers who have extra or surplus items to donate to their counterparts in Mississippi.”
“Throughout his career, Joe has shown strong leadership and creative thinking, two traits that will serve him well in overseeing our tremendously important efforts to protect the safety of food, drugs and cosmetics in North Carolina,”
“This is a tremendous opportunity for people in rural North Carolina, ... It couldn't come at a better time, with our farmers making a transition after the end of the tobacco program. It could be the silver bullet we've been looking for.”
“Because these losses had been verified during the federal relief process, we were able to start sending out checks, ... This is just the beginning. We are still working to verify damages to crops, structures and farm equipment, and we will issue checks for those losses in the coming months.”
“These farmers were in danger of falling through the cracks, and we've been working with the governor's office to make sure that doesn't happen, ... I appreciate Governor Easley approving this additional aid, which they so desperately need.”
