Press Release
McHenry Announces Passing of Congressman Cass BallengerServed as Representative for North Carolina's 10th District from 1986 to 2005
Hickory,
February 18, 2015
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Jeff Butler
(202-225-2576)
Today, Congressman Patrick McHenry (NC-10) released the following statement on the death of former 10th District Representative Cass Ballenger:
Earlier today, the nation lost one of its most selfless and unique public servants with the passing of Congressman Cass Ballenger. From 1986 to 2005 Congressman Ballenger represented the 10th District of North Carolina in the United States House of Representatives. During that time, he served as Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Workforce Protections, where he authored groundbreaking legislation that improved workplace safety and created the opportunity for employers and regulators to be partners, not adversaries, in protecting the health and safety of workers. His personal commitment to serving his constituents is a legendary example that I work hard to follow. I was the beneficiary of his kind and gracious nature when I was elected to represent the 10th District after his decision to retire from the House. He personally provided me with guidance and assistance that immeasurably helped make my transition as a freshman Member successful and ensured continuity of quality constituent services for the district. In his personal and professional life, Congressman Ballenger placed others before himself. Before serving in Congress, he started a successful manufacturing business that has provided jobs for thousands over the years. As a county commissioner, he led the way for the establishment of Catawba Valley Community College and Catawba Valley Medical Center. As a legislator in the North Carolina General Assembly, he authored the State’s first meaningful open meetings law and was named Most Effective Republican Legislator by the N.C. Institute of Government. It would take volumes to list the philanthropic work of Congressman Ballenger and his wife, Donna. They are responsible for countless schools, day care centers, hospitals, and disaster responses in the United States and abroad. In addition to being one of the House’s most distinguished Members, Congressman Ballenger was also one of the most colorful. Anyone who spent any time with him knew that he was affable, kind, and brutally honest. He would tell you exactly what he was thinking and generally with a hilarious delivery. He was one of the few people who could hold someone accountable in the most blistering way, make him laugh, and help him out of a tight spot all in one conversation. He was a rare person. He will be missed. |