Dear Neighbor,
I hope you and your family are doing well. We've had a highly productive month working to prepare for the 2024 Legislative Short Session.
Please take a few minutes to read our below newsletter, which includes information on some of the things we're doing to serve you as well as resources in the form of grants and scholarships for students.
As always, our office is open to serve you, take your feedback, and answer your questions. Thank you for your continued support and prayers.
At your service,
Michael Lazzara
North Carolina Senator
Welcoming New Legislative Assistant
Our office is pleased to welcome the addition of our new legislative assistant, Adam McKell. Adam will be leading our constituent services operation, so you are likely to be interacting with him often if you call or email our office.
Adam graduated from Pinecrest High School in 2018, later attending North Carolina State University. During his time at NC State, Adam worked as a resident advisor and later as an intern for two offices in the North Carolina Senate. He graduated cum laude from NC State in December 2023, earning a BA in International Studies, and completed minors in Business Administration, History, and Russian Studies. Adam enjoys traveling, having studied abroad in the Czech Republic, Austria, and Slovakia. He enjoys studying languages and public speaking, having been an active member of Toastmasters International. Adam is a thrill-seeker as well, being a student of mixed martial arts, and having gone skydiving twice.
School Safety in Onslow County
I am proud to announce a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to enhance the safety and security of our schools. Onslow County has been awarded the largest grant in the state, totaling $700,000, as part of the recent allocation of $35 million in school safety grants. This funding, administered by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction's Center for Safer Schools, underscores our unwavering commitment to creating a secure learning environment for students and staff.
The grant will provide for the implementation of advanced safety measures, including the installation of state-of-the-art weapons detectors and the provision of comprehensive training for our staff to effectively address students' mental health needs.
This funding reflects the state’s commitment to prioritize the well-being of both students and educators. I am grateful for the collaborative efforts of our local schools, the state Department of Public Instruction, and my fellow lawmakers in making this significant investment into Onslow County's education system. Together, we are taking meaningful steps toward safeguarding our schools and empowering our students to thrive in a secure and supportive learning environment.
Jacksonville-Onslow Chamber of Commerce's 80th Annual Celebration
I am truly honored to have been recognized by the Jacksonville-Onslow Chamber of Commerce and Sanders Ford Inc. with the prestigious Golden Eagle Man of the Year Award at their 80th celebration. I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for this recognition, as it is a testament to our community’s dedication and hard work.
The Golden Eagle Man of the Year Award is a prestigious recognition highlighting the achievements and contributions of individuals in our community.
he Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and Sanders Ford have been instrumental in supporting and promoting the growth of our community, and I am grateful for their continued efforts.
This award serves as a reminder of the importance of giving back and making a positive impact on the lives of others. I am grateful for this incredible honor, and I am truly humbled to serve such a wonderful community.
Making DMV More Efficient
Government exists to serve the people — not to waste their time and hard-earned money. That’s why we’re looking to modernize DMV services, bringing them into the 21st century with a more efficient, effective, and customer-centric model. Thank you to CBS 17 for the opportunity to share more about our ongoing privatization study.
Senator Lazzara Stands with Texas
National defense is a critical component of what the federal government is supposed to offer to our united states. If they fail to provide for this common defense – as we are seeing happen right now at our southern border – states have both a right and a responsibility to defend themselves from foreign invasion.
In Memory of Officer Tyler Johnson
I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Officer Tyler Johnson. Officer Johnson's dedication and service to Onslow County will always be remembered. His sacrifice will not be forgotten. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and colleagues. Please know that you all are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
In Memory of Five U.S. Marines
I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of five of our brave Marines in a helicopter crash during a storm in the mountains outside San Diego. The Marines were aboard a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter, traveling for routine flight training when the unfortunate incident occurred.
The Marines who lost their lives in service to our nation were Lance Cpt. Donovan Davis, Sgt. Alec Langen, Capt. Benjamin Moulton, Capt. Jack Casey, and Capt. Miguel Nava. These brave men were assigned to the Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. Their dedication to duty and their commitment to the defense of our nation will not be forgotten.
This tragic incident is a stark reminder of the risks our servicemen and women face every day, even during routine training exercises. It is a testament to their courage and their unwavering commitment to their duty. As a Marine, I understand the bond that forms among those who serve, and I share in the grief of the 'Flying Tigers' family and the larger Marine Corps community.
To the families of our fallen heroes, I extend my deepest condolences. Our state and our nation mourn with you. We honor the service and sacrifice of your loved ones, and we pledge to support you during this incredibly difficult time.
As we await the results of the investigation into this tragic incident, let us remember the bravery and dedication of these five Marines. Their service to our country exemplifies the highest ideals of the Marine Corps and of our nation. They will be deeply missed, but their legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew them and in the history of the Marine Corps.
Semper Fidelis.