Jo Bonner

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, this past Monday the First Congressional District of Alabama and indeed, our entire State and Nation, said goodbye to another casualty of the war in Iraq. Army Specialist Paul Joseph Bueche, a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and longtime resident of Daphne, Alabama, joined the Army National Guard in 2001 and was assigned to Company E of the 131st Aviation Regiment based in Birmingham. Earlier this year, Paul's unit was activated and deployed to the Kingdom of Kuwait during Operation Iraqi Freedom. In August of this year, his unit was transferred to its new duty station in Balad, Iraq. It was in Balad that, on October 21, 2003, a tire he was changing on an Army MH-60 Blackhawk helicopter exploded, killing Paul and seriously wounding one of his fellow soldiers. During his 2-year career in the National Guard, Paul set a standard of excellence and displayed the qualities of discipline, devotion and dedication to country that are the hallmarks of men and women throughout the long and distinguished history of the American military. As a result of his hard work in the Middle Eastern Theater, Paul was recently advanced to the rank of Specialist, and he was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star medal and accompanying citation. Mr. Speaker, as you can imagine, south Alabama is truly mourning the loss of this fine young man. In conversations with his friends and family, the one characteristic that was mentioned time and again when describing Paul was his love for life. As the Rev. Timothy Deasy noted during Paul's funeral mass, ``he lived more in 19 years than many of us live in a lifetime. Paul gave his life for all of us.'' A devoted brother, son, and grandson, Paul Bueche never waned in his appreciation for the many wonderful gifts of love and friendship that came his way during his brief 19 years. To a person, his fellow students and teachers from McGill-Toolen High School, his minister and fellow parishioners at Christ the King Catholic Church, and his many other family and friends spoke affectionately of Paul's boundless energy and enthusiasm and the genuinely warm feelings he displayed for his fellow man. A telling story of his generosity came just days before he died. Recently, Paul had won a lottery held within his unit in Iraq which would have allowed him a 2-week furlough back in the United States in December. However, Paul chose to give that pass to a fellow guardsman from the unit, feeling it was more important that he--a husband and father--be at home with a wife and children who needed him more during the holidays. Mr. Speaker, it is only right for us to pause and give thanks to God that there are still young men like Paul Joseph Bueche. On his handsome, young face, the world can see the very best America has to offer. I urge my colleagues to take a moment and pay tribute to Specialist Paul Bueche and his selfless devotion to not only our country and the freedom we enjoy, but to a people who are but now in the infant stages of a new life--a new freedom--in their own land. We should also remember his parents, Emory Paul and Maria Bueche, his sisters Jessica and Melissa, and his grandparents, Sydney and Doris Bueche and Jose and Ilena Alonso. Our prayer is that God will give them all the strength and courage that only He can provide to sustain them during the difficult days ahead. It was Joseph Campbell who said, ``A hero is someone who has given his or her life to something bigger than oneself.'' Make no mistake, young Paul Bueche was not only a dedicated soldier who made the ultimate sacrifice serving in the uniform of his country, but he was also a true American hero. In addition to my statement, I ask that an accompanying article from the October 25th Mobile Register, written by Robert Buchanan, be included in this tribute to Paul. May he rest in peace. A Time Too Soon To Comprehend There is a time for everything, And a season for every activity under heaven: A time to be born and a time to die, A time to plant and a time to uproot, A time to kill and a time to heal, A time to tear down and a time to build, A time to weep and a time to laugh, A time to mourn and a time to dance, A time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, A time to embrace and a time to refrain, A time to search and a time to give up, A time to keep and a time to throw away, A time to tear and a time to mend, A time to be silent and a time to speak, A time to love and a time to hate, A time for war and a time for peace. --Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 When you cradle your infant in your arms, rocking back and forth while reading to his young ears, more than likely it will be from a book of fairy tales with glorious, happy endings. Surely, though, it's not the time to tell him that the 16 lines from Ecclesiastes sum up the life that he will face. Of course, he couldn't comprehend it, nor would you want him to; life as a baby has its own time for being, for growing and for learning. A time to be born and a time to die. It's left to the parents to do the worrying, often quietly, without evidence that there is harm in that infant's way. As he grows to be a toddler, it's the parents who fret about the stumbling boy crashing into furniture, hitting walls, slapping the sofa. The rite of passage into official boyhood comes with its share of nicks and scratches. But a boy he is, and a boy he will be. The years evaporate, and your baby boy is a man. Your concerns, however, have grown with him. You watched him waddle in a sand box, not thinking that one day his life could end in the sands of an Iraqi village so small that it would be difficult to spot on a map. It's too soon for a 19-year-old to die. We humans comprehend this, lacking the understanding of why someone so young should leave this Earth now. It's even more heartbreaking for parents to have a son die before them. It's not supposed to be this way. A time to weep and a time to laugh. The order of life has turned upside down for Emory and Maria Bueche. They have already told stories--terrific stories--about their son, Paul. They have shared them with family, friends and the media. It's a normal therapeutic exercise to keep their minds clear while preparing for funeral services. Others will share their stories, bringing more laughter and tears. They'll be proud of the people Paul touched in his short life. They'll be proud he died serving his country. The Bueches won't be able to feel it, yet all the parents of our American babies will share in their pain. Meanwhile, three more American soldiers die in Iraq. Three more sets of parents are experiencing the trauma of children passing too soon. All of us will be suffering along with them. There is a time for everything. Paul was a member of the 2002 graduating class of McGill-Toolen Catholic High School. Local television stations grabbed yearbooks from his days at McGill, showing Paul's smiling portrait in a row of students' photos. A telephone call went to the cherubic looking youngster in the picture to the left of Paul. He's now a young college man, sans the rounded face. ``Paul Bueche died in Iraq,'' he's told. ``What?'' he answers. ``I didn't know he was over there. Oh, my God. What happened?'' He is told about the unfortunate circumstances, but the explanation falls flat. A classmate had died; the first member of the 2002 class was gone. It's too incredible for the student to absorb. ``Man, he was cool. We were in the Model U.N. together. I mean . . . I can't believe it. What happened? ``Of all the people over there, that accident, it happened to one of us.'' The McGill-Toolen senior class of 2002 was close, unusually close. The Bueches recalled how their house was always full of kids, that it wasn't unusual to wake up and find Paul's friends asleep on the den floor. That was the class of 2002. From house to house, class members found parents with open doors. Now these same parents are sharing the Bueches' ache, along with their young-adult children who are experiencing a type of grief they were not prepared to handle. It's just too soon. Eventually, though, they will realize that Paul's death was not in vain, for there are few earthly callings higher than sacrificing for one's country, for one's friends back home. In the meantime, they can pray and take solace that there will be a time for peace.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the service and sacrifice of Captain Richard C. Yeend, Jr. Capt. Yeend was serving as the co-pilot of an HH-3E, ``Jolly Green Giant'' helicopter sent to rescue a Marine pilot when the helicopter was shot down over Laos on June 9, 1968. Captain Yeend was listed as killed in action/body not recovered until his remains, along with the rest of the crew, were identified and returned home in September. He was buried September 28, 2003, thirty-five years after his helicopter was shot down. Captain Yeend was raised in Mobile, Alabama, as the second of five children. He was a member of the Air Force ROTC at Auburn University and went on to flight school. After flying B-52s for several years, he volunteered for helicopter flight school as the Vietnam conflict escalated. Captain Yeend was deployed to Vietnam in February of 1968. His service to our country is evidenced by the awards he was awarded posthumously, including the Silver Star, the Distinguished Flying Cross with two oak leaf clusters, the Air Medal with four oak leaf clusters, and the Purple Heart. On October 11, 2003, on what would have been his 65th birthday, hundreds gathered at the Lower Alabama Vietnam Veterans Memorial at Battleship Memorial Park in Mobile to pay tribute to Captain Yeend, a man whose heroic efforts have not been forgotten. Retired Navy Rear Admiral Jeremiah Denton, who was a prisoner of war for over seven years during Vietnam, was the featured speaker. Admiral Denton praised Captain Yeend for his service and the Yeend family for its continued devotion to their country throughout their years of hardship, waiting while their loved one's remains were unaccounted for. He praised Captain Yeend along with all the Vietnam veterans in the audience for their service and assured everyone that their efforts were appreciated by all. Captain Richard Yeend was a man whose honor and devotion to his family and his country were seen in his daily acts of courage and his willingness to take on heroic acts. A man of great character and respect, Captain Yeend was a leader in all aspects of his life. His siblings looked to him for guidance and support. With his remains now returned home and at rest, may they have some peace and closure and know that he will be honored for his heroic actions. His sacrifice is a tribute to everyone that fought and those who continue to fight for the betterment of others and for the spirit of freedom which so many people throughout the world still yearn for. I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Captain Yeend and in offering our condolences to his family for their loss and their struggle through the years as they awaited his final trip home.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the long and distinguished career of Marjorie S. Day who blessed the First Congressional District of Alabama with 31 years of service and devotion. Marjorie committed her life to the betterment of young children through the many years she dedicated to 4-H youth programs in the State of Alabama. She blessed the 4-H program with her exceptional gift of warmth and sincerity. Marjorie Day graduated from Auburn University in 1970 where she obtained a Bachelor's degree in Secondary Education. She continuously worked to further her education by participating in various courses and training programs. In 1985, she graduated from the University of Alabama with a Master's of Science in Home Economics, Food & Nutrition. Before her involvement in 4-H programs, Marjorie's career began in the Conecuh County public school system in Evergreen, Alabama, as a vocational home economics teacher. Driven by a tireless passion for serving children, she began her 31 year journey with 4-H programs in 1972 in Heflin, Alabama. Here, Marjorie worked with 600 adoring young people from fifteen different 4-H clubs. In 1977, she moved to Mobile, Alabama, where she spent the next 25 years of her career working as a county agent for Alabama Cooperative Extension System of Mobile County. Here, her youth groups continued to expand until she eventually assumed responsibility for the entire 4-H program with the assistance of other agents. Marjorie was recognized for her exceptional talent as the recipient of various awards and honors including a 25 Years of Service Award in 1998 and a 30 Years of Service in the Government of the United States of America Award in 2002. Marjorie's undying passion to help others is an irreplaceable gift that goes above and beyond any other. There is no doubt she holds a special gift of compassion that will truly be missed. Marjorie will surely enjoy the well deserved time she now has to spend with family and loved ones. On behalf of a grateful community, I wish her the best of luck with all future endeavors.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, this weekend, in Atlantic City, New Jersey, a young lady from my congressional district, Miss Catherine Crosby, will represent Alabama in the 2004 Miss America Pageant. A native of Brewton, Catherine is the daughter of Larry and Ann Crosby. A 1998 graduate of T.R. Miller High School, she subsequently received her Bachelor of Arts degree in History from Auburn University in 2002. Catherine was crowned Miss Alabama on the campus of Samford University in Birmingham, on June 14, 2003, following a week of preliminary competitions. The fifty pageant participants competed in four areas of competition: interview, in which she received first place honors; swimsuit; evening wear; and talent. As Miss Alabama, Catherine regularly receives State and national recognition and was awarded an $11,000 scholarship. Prior to traveling to Atlantic City, Catherine stopped by my office and visited with the other Members of the Alabama Delegation as well. She is as charming and talented as she is beautiful, and I could not help but be impressed with what she has chosen as her pageant platform, ``First Vote: America's Freedom to Choose.'' This message teaches young people about the importance of voting and works to instill in them the responsibilities and obligations of being good citizens. Mr. Speaker, Catherine's message could not come at a better time. I trust her words will help open the eyes of many young Americans about the right and privilege of voting . . . one of the many freedoms that, unfortunately, we all-too-often take for granted in this great country. On behalf of an entire State that will be rooting her on and wishing her well, I salute Miss Alabama Catherine Crosby. I know she will make our entire State--and Nation--proud this Saturday night, and I predict we will be hearing much more from this wonderful young lady in the months and years to come.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, the other day I lost a dear friend, Carlisle McClure, Jr., and I rise today to honor him and pay tribute to his memory. Elected to the Monroe County Commission at a young age, Carlisle dedicated his entire adult life to the betterment of his home county and to the great state of Alabama. As you can imagine, I was deeply saddened to learn that Carlisle passed away on Wednesday, August 27, after battling a long illness. Not only did I lose someone I considered to be a good friend but even more importantly, his friends, family and fellow citizens have lost an individual who, during the course of his life, made countless contributions for the betterment of his district and for all of Monroe County. Mr. Speaker, Carlisle McClure was the very essence of a true public servant. He faithfully--and unselfishly--served the people of Monroe County during some of the county's most difficult times, economically speaking. He was always at work--tirelessly, I might add--with other local and state officials in trying to attract new industry to south Alabama, and he always had an eye to the future in an attempt to improve the vital infrastructure of the county. Perhaps most importantly, however, Carlisle was deeply concerned for the personal well-being of his fellow Monroe Countians. A devoted and active member of Monroeville's First United Methodist Church, Carlisle sought to extend help and support to his fellow man which often cannot be provided by any government office or public agency. He had a heart as big as the state of Texas and a deep concern and compassion for his fellow man. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in remembering a dedicated public servant and long-time advocate for Monroe County, Alabama. Carlisle will be deeply missed by his family--his father, Howard Carlisle McClure, Sr., his daughter, Mary Michael McClure and his sister, Nancy Harrell--as well as the many friends he leaves behind. Our thoughts and prayers are with them all at this difficult time.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to recognize and salute my friend, Gene Owens, on the occasion of his retirement from ``active duty'' with the Mobile Register, Alabama's oldest newspaper. For 9 years, Gene has provided consistent, quality reporting to readers along the Gulf Coast and throughout Alabama, first as the paper's political editor and in recent years, as the Register's popular metro columnist. Prior to moving to Alabama, Gene worked at newspapers in other areas of the country, devoting much of that time to reporting jobs in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Upon moving to the Gulf Coast in 1994, Gene became a familiar face to those of us in public service during his stint as the Register's political editor. In so doing, he shared with the people of south Alabama the talents and personal integrity upon which he built his reputation as a journalist. Elected officials, community representatives and concerned citizens alike could always rely on Gene to provide the best possible coverage of issues facing us in Alabama as well as topics of national interest. From covering local political debates to national party conventions, Gene could always be counted on to give you the complete story on the major issues of the day. While his readers--and those he reported on-- did not always agree with him, we could always be assured there would be equal and fair treatment in his columns and stories, a statement which can not always be said about all journalists. In recent years, Gene moved to cover more local issues, and his columns on more human interest stories won him an entirely new following. His humorous and often folksy manner of sharing local tales, from topics as diverse as an annual Texas State Fire Ant Festival to a discussion on the finer points of the southern ``take'' on the English language, could always be counted upon to inform, entertain and bring a smile to the faces of all his readers. His readers, colleagues and fans never hesitated to share their opinions on and about Gene and his pontifications. Of all the comments the paper received during the past 9 years, the one that perhaps best sums up Gene's career and the public's feeling toward him was left on the Register's open comment line, ``Sound Off,'' and was recently reprinted in a tribute column about Gene. Someone called in to say, ``I hope God continues to watch over Gene Owens. The world is so in need of the humor and wisdom that he so richly shares with us all.'' Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing Gene Owens for his tremendous contributions to both the world of journalism and to his friends and neighbors along Alabama's Gulf Coast. Gene is indeed a genuine Alabama treasure who has freely shared both his wisdom and humor with all of us, and for nearly a decade I have been proud to call him my friend. Along with his many friends and followers throughout South Alabama, ``Pal Joey'' wishes to extend to Gene Owens and his lovely wife, ``Miss Peggy,'' all the best in the months and years ahead.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Harold C. Eaton, a leader in the field of civil rights in both his community and the nation as a whole. His tenure as the Mobile District Corps of Engineers Equal Employment Opportunity Officer, which was marked with numerous accomplishments, has truly earned him the honor of being inducted into the Gallery of Distinguished Civilian Employees. Mr. Eaton served his country through Federal service for 44 years, beginning with his assignment at Brookley Air Force Base in 1956. Following the closing of the base in 1967, Mr. Eaton transferred to the Mobile District Personnel Office and was later appointed to the position of District Equal Employment Opportunity Officer (EEO) in 1974. The advancements made by Mr. Eaton during his time as EEO Officer were nothing short of outstanding. Facing the issue of equal opportunity during one of the most tumultuous times in the nation's history, Mr. Eaton's career was marked with a number of challenges. The most serious of these challenges was the court-ordered Consent Decree, a class action lawsuit outlining affirmative action goals for black employment in the Mobile District. Mr. Eaton worked diligently and effectively to solve the problems faced by the community in the field of equal opportunity and was successful in having the Decree lifted in 1987. Through his work in the community, Mr. Eaton became a recognized leader on the local and Federal level in the field of affirmative action. A second major challenge Mr. Eaton faced during his tenure as EEO Officer dealt with private contracting for the Tennessee- Tombigbee Waterway project. Through the system Mr. Eaton developed, the Corps was able to guarantee equal opportunity for both employment and contracting. The idea of private contracting was revolutionary for the Corps of Engineers and is a program which is still in use today. Mr. Harold Eaton has made many outstanding contributions throughout his life to the advancement of equal rights. His devotion and innovation resulted in major accomplishments on the local and Federal level. It is my honor to recognize the achievements of a man so devoted to the causes of equality and justice, both of which we hold so dear in our Nation. For his tireless work for the betterment of his community, Mr. Eaton truly deserves induction into the Gallery of Distinguished Civilian Employees.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the life of a good man, a proud American and a fine member of the South Alabama community, Mr. P. Grey Cane, Jr., who passed away on Saturday, August 9th, at his home in Fairhope, Alabama. A solid businessman and a true community leader, Grey Cane was loved by his family and friends and respected by his peers. Grey was known for his generosity, not only for those he knew well but also for those whom he had never met. Throughout his life, Mr. Cane worked for the preservation of Alabama's treasured waterways which have for many years provided immense enjoyment to tens of thousands of residents and tourists. His love of the outdoors and his passion for preserving our waterways will never be forgotten. As a young man, Grey founded KEMKO, Inc., a company providing construction, building, and roofing materials. His employees felt a strong loyalty to Mr. Cane and often spoke highly of his giving nature and attentiveness to their needs. Mr. Cane also had a strong and independent spirit which made him both a tough negotiator and successful businessman. However, Grey Cane never allowed his many successes to be used simply for his own good. At times, he used the KEMKO warehouses as depositories for extra building supplies and allowed those in need to take what was considered necessary from storage. In addition to his generosity, Grey Cane had a way that made everyone who came in contact with him feel special, a rare quality in today's times. A sportsman at heart, Mr. Cane devoted tremendous amounts of time and energy to the establishment of the Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) of Alabama and, subsequently, the Eastern Shore chapter of the same organization. Those close to him note the zeal he had for the cause of environmental protection and the tenacity with which he fought for this worthy cause. Grey Cane realized the importance of preserving our natural habitats and continued fighting for this cause throughout his entire life. In recognition of his charitable gifts and his lifelong dedication to the cause of environmental conservation, the CCA recently honored Mr. Cane by renaming a thriving coastal reef in his honor. Through his charitable contributions to society, his strong dedication to protecting and preserving Alabama's waterways, fisheries and natural resources, and his generosity to his friends, family, and coworkers, Mr. Cane leaves a lasting and memorable mark onall of Alabama's Gulf Coast region. I am proud to have called him my friend. Mr. Speaker, P. Grey Cane, Jr., is survived by his wonderful wife of almost 50 years, Katchie, a son, Peter Grey Cane, III, a daughter, Laura Cane Armstrong, two grandchildren, two step-grandchildren, one sister, an aunt and nieces, nephews and other relatives. May his family know that they are in the thoughts and prayers of many who loved and appreciated Grey Cane as they did.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Reverend Howard Johnson for his 21 years of service as pastor of the Truevine Missionary Baptist Church of Mobile, Alabama, and for numerous other contributions he has made to his community throughout his lifetime. Rev. Johnson was born in Jackson, Alabama, on June 26, 1940. He grew up in Clarke County, and it is there that he received his primary education. In 1967, Mr. Johnson entered the ministry and was licensed to preach. His first church was the Bethlehem Baptist Church in Citronelle, Alabama, and he served there from 1968-1980. He received his Associate Arts Degree from S.D. Bishop State Junior College in 1975 and Bachelor of Arts Degree from Mobile College in 1976. In 1979, he graduated from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary with a Master of Divinity Degree, and in 1980 he earned his Doctor of Divinity Degree from the Virginia Seminary. He became the pastor of the Truevine Missionary Baptist Church in 1982 and has remained there to date. Besides serving as a pastor, Rev. Johnson has held positions in the Mt. Olive Baptist Church and the Sweet Pilgrim Baptist Church. He currently serves as the Chaplain for the University of South Alabama Medical Center. Throughout the years he has been a member of and led many civic and religious organizations. With his dedication to God and his community it is no surprise that he has been recognized with awards by various groups on numerous occasions. His life has been and continues to be an example for all to follow. I got to know Rev. Johnson during what was most certainly the most difficult period in his life following the death of his son, Howard, II, in service to his country in Iraq. The reverend showed almost inhuman strength, faith, and courage during this tragic time, and he has my deepest respect and admiration. It is most appropriate that on July 13, 2003, Rev. Johnson will be recognized for his 21 years at the Truevine Missionary Baptist Church. His wife, Gloria, and two daughters, Zsaquez RaShaunn and Geiselle LaVonne will join him in his celebration. This is a much deserved honor. We are fortunate to have Rev. Johnson as a leader in our district, and I am truly proud to call him my friend.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect that I rise today to honor the memory of former Arizona Congressman Bob Stump and his lifetime of dedication to the United States. I was deeply saddened to learn that our colleague passed away on Friday June 20, 2003, after a long illness. We have not only lost a wonderful friend, but an individual who during his time made countless contributions toward the betterment of our Nation. He was especially concerned with the well- being of our service men and women and went to great lengths to give them the support they so clearly deserve. Mr. Stump, a native of Phoenix, Arizona, began his career of service at the young age of 16 by joining the Navy. He completed duties as a combat medic during World War II and was elected to the Arizona State Legislature in 1959. There he remained a member for 18 years after which he was elected to represent the 3rd District of Arizona in the United States House of Representatives. During his terms in office, he was appointed as the chairman of both the House Veterans Affairs and Armed Services Committees. The hundreds who gathered on Wednesday to show their admiration for Mr. Stump could only represent a small portion of the many that his life affected. I feel that my predecessor, former Congressman Sonny Callahan, was accurate when he stated that Mr. Stump's ``quiet manner produced some of the greatest effects of any I've ever observed. He was a quiet member who seldom spoke at great lengths on the floor, but his ability to get things that he believed in done was phenomenal.'' We are privileged to have known and worked with this passionate and loyal individual. Mr. Stump will be greatly missed and always remembered.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to recognize the Alabama State Docks on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of its official dedication. The dedication took place on June 25, 1928, with several dignitaries attending, including Governor Bibb Graves, U.S. Congressman John McDuffie, U.S. Senator Hugo Black and the Assistant Chief of the United States Department of Transportation. Since that time, the port city of Mobile has enjoyed a lengthy history as an integral part of the State and National economy. In 1519, just a short 27 years following Christopher Columbus's discovery of the New World, Spanish explorer Admiral Alvarez de Pineda sailed into what is now called Mobile Bay. The present-day city of Mobile was founded in 1702 by French explorers Jean Baptiste Le Moyne and Sieur de Bienville. The port of Mobile, which lies at the mouth of the Mobile River and the head of Mobile Bay, began contributing to the economy of the region by becoming one of the leading exporters of cotton. Since the early part of the 17th century, the port city has flourished to become Alabama's third largest city and among the national leaders in international trade. The current 45 foot deep navigational channel, which is maintained by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, serves the port well in connecting Mobile to the Gulf of Mexico. The Mobile River, which is formed by the confluence of the Black Warrior and Tombigbee Rivers, functions as the gateway for the Tennessee/Tombigbee Waterway. The obvious economic possibilities and the lack of central organizational operation spurred the Alabama Legislature to submit a constitutional amendment to develop Alabama's Seaport with state financial assistance. The amendment was passed in 1922 and the State Docks Commission was formed to build, operate and maintain the facilities of the State Docks. With just $10 million to spend, the Commission chose retired Major General William L. Sibert to engineer and construct one of the finest seaports on the Gulf Coast. Construction was not yet completed when the new Docks received their first cargo ship in May of 1927. The port, which ranked 14th in total tonnage in 1999, is ahead of other ports such as Tampa, Seattle, Charleston, and Savannah. Mobile also ranks first nationally in wood pulp and Gulf coast forest products exports. The State Docks has made an overwhelming impact on the State economy by generating approximately $3 billion in revenues statewide each year. With the ability to service many different products, the port continues to position itself among the leaders in international trade. And as a self-supporting enterprise agency of the executive branch of State government, the facilities prove that they can compete and operate to the benefit of not only the people of Alabama but also the Nation. I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing the Alabama State Docks for 75 years of excellence and leadership in the shipping industry. The residents of Alabama and the American people have all benefited greatly from the Docks, existence and its important role in today's economy.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 8 and in opposition to this substitute. I firmly believe that this is every bit as important a piece of legislation as the President's tax cut was just a few weeks ago, and I am very proud to be a cosponsor. The death tax is fundamentally un-American. We should all aspire to be successful. And if we are fortunate enough to accumulate a little wealth, we should be able to leave that to our children, to our grandchildren, to our universities, our churches, our synagogues, or whomever we choose, not whom the government chooses. This unfair and punitive tax is killing America's small businessmen and women and our family farmers. Congress understood this in 2001 and acted to gradually repeal the estate tax. But the repeal will sunset in 2010. It simply makes no sense whatsoever to expect taxpayers to time their deaths so as to qualify for more favorable tax treatment. The House recognized this problem, and we have twice voted to make this repeal permanent. My district in Alabama is largely rural, with small landowners. Estate planning is extremely difficult and expensive. This is just wrong to make these people not only be doubly taxed but triple taxed. I again urge my colleagues to oppose the substitute and support the underlying bill.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride and pleasure that I rise to honor and congratulate Mrs. Lynn Garner for having recently received the Mobile Area Education Foundation's 2003 Outstanding Educator Award. She deserves our sincere and respectful congratulations. Her dedication and service have rightly earned her this prestigious award. Dodge Elementary School has been delighted with the 18 years of service Lynn Garner has given as a faculty member. She works with all 1,050 students and 66 faculty members as the technology coordinator. Her bright smile, energetic attitude, and unwavering dedication bring a level of cheerfulness and enrichment to the entire school. Mrs. Lynn Garner has always been known to go above and beyond in everything she does. She comes to school early and stays late everyday to provide extra classes and help for students and faculty alike, and has often been known to work on the weekends as well. She gives all of her time while still managing to take classes at the University of South Alabama in pursuit of a certification in Media Education. One of her more recent projects includes redesigning the school's entire computer lab system to allow her students to benefit by using technology to enhance their education. She has been vital to the success of the Dodge Elementary School technology program. Lynn Garner has shown the type of dedication and service that is rare. Her career has not earned her fortune or fame, but she has been able to touch and bless the lives of a countless number of children. Teachers are the real heroes of our time, heroes that have touched us all. Once again, I congratulate Lynn Garner for her hard work, dedication, and service to her students, to her community, and to our great country.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride and pleasure that I rise to honor Mrs. Cathy Moss Taylor for having recently received the Mobile Area Education Foundation's 2003 Outstanding Educator Award. She deserves our utmost respect and sincere congratulations. Her dedication and service have rightly earned her this prestigious award. Cathy Moss Taylor has always been committed to service. She is a math teacher at Satsuma High School and is deeply committed to helping her students learn and succeed in life. She recently worked to establish a tutorial program to help seniors successfully retake the math section of the Alabama High School Graduation Exam. This program has proven to be a great success with over a 90 percent passing rate. Her commitment to her students and to the community has been unsurpassed and has impacted all of her students. Mrs. Cathy Moss Taylor works hard both in and out of the classroom. Despite the time she has spent raising her two children and her niece, she also gives her afternoons by helping to sponsor the Miss Satsuma High School Pageant and the Satsuma High School screening committee for the Azalea Trail Maid selection. She has touched so many young lives with her caring and support and has gone well beyond the duties required by her job. Hard work and dedication are just a few words that can only begin to describe Cathy Moss Taylor. She is a joy to her students and her peers and her ability to reach out and touch the lives of others is a rarity and a special treasure. Once again, I congratulate Cathy Moss Taylor for her hard work, dedication, and service to her students, to her community and to our great country.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride and pleasure that I rise to honor and congratulate Mrs. Mary Smith for having recently received the Mobile Area Education Foundation's 2003 Outstanding Educator Award. She deserves our sincere and respectful congratulations. Her dedication and service have rightly earned her this prestigious award. Mary Smith has taught middle school science at the Clark School of Mathematics and Science for eleven years. She has been very interactive with her science students, and she always gives her time and energy to her students and to her school. She frequently takes her classes on field trips and exposes them to hands-on experiments in and out of the classroom. She also gives up many nights and Saturdays to coach the Clark Science Olympiad. Her dedication and involvement have made a difference in many young lives. One of Mrs. Smith's newest projects has been to capture the interest of her students with the NASA space program. ``Signatures in Space'' is a new government sponsored program that allows 500 different schools throughout the country to send their students' signatures into outer space with the next shuttle launch. Mary Smith was instrumental in procuring a spot on the signature list for the Clark School of Mathematics and Science. She also successfully helped a student to apply and get initiated into an extremely competitive national program allowing the student to communicate directly with the astronauts via a live telecast. Her devoted spirit and good-natured heart have made her more than deserving of this honorary award. Mary Smith has been a real treasure to the students and faculty of Clark School of Mathematics and Science. The extra effort she always puts forth has allowed her to touch so many young lives. She is always going above and beyond and it shows in the hearts of all that she has touched. Heroes are not just the powerful and popular figures seen on television. True heroes are the people that touch lives, giving their heart and dedication to everything they do. True heroes are the Mary Smiths in the world. I can think of no one better deserving of this award and distinction. Once again, I congratulate Mary Smith for her hard work, dedication, and service to her students, to her community, and to our great country.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise to honor a truly exemplary Alabamian, a man who grew up in the tiny town of Frisco City, Alabama, and today has become one of our most outstanding business and community leaders. For more than 43 years, T. Keith King, P.E., of Mobile, Alabama, has dedicated his life to his community, his family and his profession. A graduate of Auburn University, he has continued to remain active and involved with his Alma Mater. Recently, Mr. King completed two years as chairman of the Auburn Alumni Engineering Council. He is a life member of the Auburn Alumni Association, having served on the Board of Directors and as chairman of the Finance Committee. Mr. King has made many contributions to the field of engineering due in part to his position as President, CEO and Chairman of the Board of Volkert & Associates in Mobile, Alabama. Climbing from a design engineer position with the firm in 1960, today Keith King leads one of the finest engineering firms in the country. Under Mr. King's leadership, Volkert currently employs 650 engineers, architects, planners, surveyors, environmental scientists, technicians and administrative support personnel in 12 offices located throughout eight Southeastern states. His commitment to excellence has earned him numerous awards by the engineering industry. He was recently inducted into the Alabama Engineering Hall of Fame. Some of his other professional honors include: The American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) College of Fellows 2003 Community Service Award, recognition as one of the Top Ten Engineers in Alabama by the Alabama Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers, induction into the Alabama Engineering Hall of Fame and receipt of the National Society of Professional Engineers Distinguished Service Award. As a recent chairman of the Business Council of Alabama, Keith King has also done much to improve the quality of life for all Alabamians by working to bring growth, jobs and business opportunities to the state of Alabama. His commitment to Alabama and the First Congressional District in particular is nothing short of inspirational. Keith King is a member of the Leadership Alabama Class of XII and is a longtime member of the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce. He has been actively involved with the Mobile Area Council of the Boy Scouts of America for many years and has held many high ranking positions within that organization. Mr. King also gives generously of his time to the Boys and Girls Clubs of South Alabama, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and the Mobile Lions Club and is a member of the USS Battleship Alabama Memorial Park Restoration Committee, to name just a few of the many other areas where he gives freely of his time and talents. By example, Keith King has shown that unselfish dedication and service to your community, your state and your nation can truly make a difference. Mr. Speaker, I salute Keith King as a model citizen and as a leader to many in the First Congressional District. I know his lovely wife Julia and their daughter, two sons and seven grandchildren along with all of his friends and neighbors are extremely proud of the many contributions being made by this outstanding man.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride and pleasure that I rise to honor and congratulate Mrs. Amanda Turberville for having recently received the Mobile Area Education Foundation's 2003 Outstanding Educator Award. She truly deserves our warmest and most sincere congratulations. Her dedication and hard work have rightly earned her this prestigious award. While among the younger faculty members of Phillips Preparatory Magnet School, Amanda Turberville has brought her excitement and love for science to all of her seventh grade classes. Her cheerful spirit and love for children make her a joy to be around, both in and out of the classroom. Mrs. Turberville works hard to keep her classroom an exciting and creative workplace for her students. Her students do not just learn science, they learn to love science. Amanda Turberville graduated from Mississippi State University in 1997 and has been teaching middle school science at Phillips Preparatory Magnet School for 7 years. She has been energizing to her students since day one and she still brings the enthusiastic spark with which she began teaching to the classroom. Her desire to not just teach but to help her students want to learn has made her well-deserving of this distinguished award. Amanda Turberville has given an unequaled level of hard work and service to her school and to her students. Her level of creativity and her desire to make learning fun, have allowed her to touch so many of her students' lives. My personal heroes are not the big celebrities but rather the people you do not hear much about. My heroes are the people like Amanda Turberville who dedicate their entire lives to helping people and making a difference in the lives of others as well as in our community. Once again, I congratulate Amanda Turberville for her service, leadership and dedication to her students and the future of our great country.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to honor Mr. Neil C. Johnston for his achievements in conservation and environmental education programs. Earlier this week, Neil received a National Wetlands Award for education/outreach from the Environmental Law Institute. The awards are presented annually to those who have dedicated their time and expertise to wetlands conservation and restoration. Neil is an attorney from Mobile, Alabama. Not only does Neil practice in the fields of forestry and federal environmental law professionally, he is also personally involved with the environment. He speaks at and conducts seminars, as well as speaking to local school children. Neil is the director of the Project CATE (Conservation Action Through Education) Foundation, Inc., which produces and distributes interactive conservation and environmental education programs. Ribbit's Big Splash is an award winning CD-ROM program which is designed to educate students about various aspects of water in environments such as ponds, rivers, wetlands, and gulfs. Project CATE plans to have more CD-ROM programs for students which will include air, soil, energy, and recycling. The programs are designed for the use of children in kindergarten through fifth grade. Through stories, projects, games, and interactive activities, children can learn about the environment and conservation in their local, state, and regional areas. I am especially proud of Neil Johnston's achievements and his important contributions to the First District and its surrounding areas. His work as a conservationist and environmental educator has taught many children in my district, as well as others in the region. Thanks to his work, children have become more active in learning about water, and soon they will be able to learn about other aspects of our environment as his programs are completed and distributed. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me in congratulating Mr. Johnston for his hard work and dedication that has earned him this prestigious award, as well as for his commitment to teaching children about our environment.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to the gentleman from California's amendment. When President Bush proposed this healthy forest initiative, great care was taken by the administration and leadership in crafting a bill that is beneficial to all forest in the United States, not just some. This is a laudable and logical goal. Healthy forests are not simply forests that are free from brush and undergrowth. Healthy forests are also free from disease and pest infestation. In my home State of Alabama, our forests are under attack every day from pest infestation in the form of the Southern pine beetle. The beetle burrows into the trees and lays eggs below the bark. The result is a rapid deterioration of the health of the tree and in most cases its death. Unfortunately, this amendment would take out every single reference to insects or disease. It is not good public policy to address the health of our forests without addressing insects and disease. Mr. Speaker, if I had been elected to represent the southern pine beetle in my home State I would probably support this amendment. But on behalf of the thousands of landowners and timber growers I strongly oppose it, and I support the underlying bill.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall Nos. 161, 162, 163, I was unavoidably detained in Alabama due to bad weather and flight delays. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, a few weeks ago, a childhood friend, Beth Killough Chapman, who now serves my home state of Alabama with distinction as our State Auditor, made a speech at a ``Stand up for America Rally'' in the city of Pelham, a suburb of Birmingham. Beth's remarks, although certainly unintended at the time, captured the views of many of us in this country and sparked an emotional response from literally thousands of people in all 50 states, including many of the men and women who proudly wear the uniform of our military in defense of this great country. Unlike so many of the speeches we hear in this city, Beth Chapman's remarks were not made with a particular slant that was either pro- Democrat or pro-Republican. Instead, Beth's comments were simply ``pro- American,'' and after reading her words, it was obvious to me that the speech was made straight from the heart. Mr. Speaker, in these uncertain times when so many people have questions about where we are going, what we are doing and who can we trust, I found Beth Chapman's words inspirational and comforting. I ask that her speech be entered into the Congressional Record in its entirety, in hopes that even more people can be encouraged to stop and think about the true price of liberty and who is making the real sacrifices to preserve what is so dear to us all: I'm here tonight because men and women of the United States military have given their lives for my freedom. I am not here tonight because Sheryl Crowe, Rosie O'Donnell, Jane Fonda, Martin Sheen, the Dixie Chicks, Barbra Streisand, the Beastie Boys, George Clooney or Phil Donahue, sacrificed their lives for me. If my memory serves me correctly, it was not movie stars or musicians, but the United States Military who fought on the shores of Iwo Jima, the jungles of Vietnam, and the beaches of Normandy. Tonight, I say we should support the President of the United States and the U.S. military and tell the liberal, tree-hugging, hippy, Birkenstock wearing, tie-dyed liberals to go make their movies and music and whine somewhere else. After all, if they lived in Iraq, they wouldn't be allowed the freedom of speech they're being given here today-- ironically, they would be put to death at the hands of Sadam Hussein or Osama Bin Laden. I want to know how the very people who are against war because of the loss of life, can possibly be the same people who are for abortion? They are the same people who are for animal rights but against the rights of the unborn. The movie stars say they want to go to Iraq and serve as human shields for the Iraqis, I say let them buy a one-way ticket and go. No one likes war, I hate war. But the one thing I hate more is the fact that this country has been forced into war-- innocent people have lost their lives--and there but for the grace of God, it could have been my brother, my husband, or even worse my own son. On December 7, 1941, there are no records of movie stars treading the blazing waters of Pearl Harbor. On September 11, 2001; there are no photos of movie stars standing as human shields against the debris and falling bodies descending from the World Trade Center. There were only policemen and firemen--underpaid civil servants who gave their all with nothing expected in return. When the USS Cole was bombed, there were no movie stars guarding the ship--where were the human shields then? If America's movie stars want to be human shields, let them shield the gang-ridden streets of Los Angeles, or New York City, let them shield the lives of the children of North Birmingham whose mothers lay them down to sleep on the floor each night to shelter them from stray bullets. If they want to be human shields, I say let them shield the men and women of honesty and integrity who epitomize courage and embody the spirit of freedom by wearing the proud uniforms of the United States Military. Those are the people who have earned and deserve shielding. Throughout the course of history, this country has remained free, not because of movie stars and liberal activists but because of brave men and women who hated war too--but lay down their lives so that we all may live in freedom. After all--What greater love hath no man, that he lay down his life for his friend,'' but in this case a country. We should give our military honor and acknowledgement and not let their lives be in vain. If you want to see true human shields, walk through Arlington Cemetery. There lie human shields, heroes, and the BRAVE Americans who didn't get on television and talk about being human shields, they were human shields. I thank God tonight for freedom--those who bought and paid for it with their lives in the past--those who will protect it in the present and defend it in the future. America has remained silent too long. God-fearing people have remained silent too long. We must lift our voices united in a humble prayer to God for guidance and the strength and courage to sustain us throughout whatever the future may hold. After the tragic events of Sept. 11th, my then eleven-year- old son said terrorism is a war against us and them and if you're not one of us, then you're one of them. So in closing tonight, let us be of one accord, let us stand proud, and let us be the human shields of prayer, encouragement and support for the President, our troops and their families and our country. May God bless America, the land of the free, the home of the brave and the greatest country on the face of this earth!

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, this Saturday, Mobile, and indeed all of Alabama will say goodbye to our first casualty in the war on Iraq. While many Americans will be busy running weekend errands, shopping at the local mall, or spending time with their children at a T-ball game, I will, instead, be attending what will be a much more somber occasion, the funeral services for Private First Class Howard Johnson, II. Private Johnson was killed in combat while bravely serving and protecting this great Nation in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Mr. Speaker, recently I visited with Howard's parents, the Reverend and Mrs. Howard Johnson, at their home in Mobile. Like every other parent would do in similar circumstances, the Johnsons grieve over the loss of their wonderful son. They told me what a fine young man Howard was, how he was always thinking of other people, and how he had a special concern especially for the older people who were in his father's church. They said Howard loved life, and he was blessed with many wonderful friends. In the living room of their home, I had a chance to view several photographs of Howard, first as a little boy, then as a teenager, and more recently as a young man. Always, always, there was a big smile on his face. Howard Johnson, II, had a contagious smile and an optimistic spirit that looked to the future with hope and anticipation. In uniform and in service to our country, Private Johnson exhibited courage, selfless service, and honor as a member of the United States Army and its 507th Ordnance Maintenance Company. Tragically, Private Johnson's supply convoy was ambushed in the early days of the campaign in the Iraqi city of Nasiriyah. Although stationed at Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas, Private Johnson resided in Mobile, Alabama with his family. He was a 2001 graduate of LeFlore High School and a member of the ROTC. Upon graduation from high school, Howard joined the Army and served as an automated logistical specialist after graduating from basic training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina in August of 2001. On Wednesday of this week, more than 1,500 friends, former classmates, teachers and members of Howard's extended family attended a memorial service at the LeFlore High School gymnasium. Howard Johnson, II, will be remembered for many fine qualities, not the least of which is the fact that today he is also known as and wears the title ``hero.'' As you might imagine, I was deeply saddened to receive the word of Private Johnson's death. While it is always hard to understand why we must lose any of our young people, especially those serving and protecting our Nation in our Armed Forces, I believe it is accurate to say Private Johnson's family takes great comfort from the fact that Howard was ably performing his duty in an honorable manner that reflects the rich tradition of our military. Even during this sad time, his parents, family and friends are rightly proud of his many accomplishments and that he voluntarily committed himself to preserving the freedoms that we sometimes take for granted and that we enjoy here in the United States and to spreading those freedoms to the victims of an oppressive regime halfway around the world. Mr. Speaker, Howard's family is fortunate that they can rely on a rock-solid faith and a loving God to provide personal strength and comfort during these difficult days. Reverend Johnson, Howard's father, is pastor of the Truevine Missionary Baptist Church in Mobile where Howard played drums and was active in Sunday school in the children's ministry. Right before Howard was prepared to ship off to Kuwait, he reassured his father that ``I'm ready, and I know what I'm facing, and I just believe that God is going to do it for me.'' Mr. Speaker, Howard Johnson's willingness to pay what has become the ultimate sacrifice has contributed immeasurably to the freedom and security of this Nation, to Iraq, and the world. The 507th's ``One team, one fight'' motto also embodies this worldwide mission that our servicemen and women have undertaken. May the prayers of a grateful Nation bring some comfort to the Johnson family and to all other families who have lost loved ones during this war, and may God continue to bless America, the greatest country on the face of the Earth.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize McNeil Nutritionals, Splenda Plant, a revolutionary manufacturer located in McIntosh, Alabama. Each year the Alabama Technology Network and the Business Council of Alabama honors outstanding manufacturers with their Alabama Manufacturer of the Year Awards. This year, McNeil Nutritionals, Splenda plant, has received recognition as a Medium Manufacturer for excellence in leadership, performance, profitability and work force relations. McNeil was chosen based on its demonstration of superior performance in the areas of customer focus, employee commitment, operational excellence, continuous improvement, profitable growth and investment in training and retraining. McNeil Nutritionals manufactures Splenda, the only no-calorie sweetener made from raw sugar which is from 650 to 750 times sweeter than sugar. This product was introduced in 2001 and within one year achieved the number two market share in low- calorie sweeteners in the world. As a result, Splenda saw more than 100 percent profit growth from 2001 to 2002. Also in that year, McNeil Nutritionals had a 110 percent sales growth from its base year and implemented ``Six Sigma'' quality projects that resulted in cost savings of $15 million. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you and my colleagues to join me, the Alabama Technology Network and the Business Council of Alabama in honoring McNeil Nutritionals, Splenda Plant, for its outstanding accomplishments. I also want to recognize and thank McNeil Nutritionals for its contributions to the local economy and to the quality of life enjoyed in the State of Alabama.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support of the budget resolution. Let me commend the gentleman from Iowa for his hard work in developing this budget. The product of his effort is bold and innovative, and it deserves our support. Economic growth is the cornerstone of our Republican budget. Too many Americans, too many of my constituents in south Alabama, are struggling to make ends meet. This budget works to grow our economy and to get unemployed Americans back to work. We assume the President's jobs and economic growth package because it provides an immediate boost to our struggling American workers, and it lays the groundwork for the long-term, sustainable growth of our Nation's economy. The President's tax cuts were always intended to promote long-term, sustainable growth. Our budget calls for accelerating these tax cuts, because taxpayers and the economy deserve this extra support now. These tax cuts would allow workers to keep more of their hard-earned money to spend as they see fit. With more disposable income, it will be these workers who will propel our economy back to a state of sustained health and growth. I am particularly glad to note that the 2001 tax cuts would be made permanent, allowing us to avoid a de facto tax increase in the year 2010. Mr. Chairman, there are plenty of reasons to support this budget. I think one of the most compelling reasons, however, is that it provides the right medicine at the right time to create jobs and get our economy growing again.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise this evening on what may be the eve of war. Like so many Americans, my prayers are with our men and women in uniform who so bravely and honorably prepare to fight the evils in this world in order to insure the continued safety and wellbeing of friends, family and citizens of this great Nation. On this day, my thoughts are also with our President and our other leaders of this great Nation upon whose shoulders the burden of these decisions falls. I was recently given a prayer written by Jeff Stewart, a close personal friend and lay leader at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Mobile Alabama. The following prayer will be delivered at an ecumenical service in Mobile with the cooperation of four local churches. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and our colleagues join me in lifting this prayer to our Lord God in hopes that it will provide strength and reassurance to our President and our armed forces. ``Help us, Lord, not be anxious about anything,'' During this time of pending war and the death that will surely come to our Service men, women and civilians. Give us Your peace and the power to invoke Your love and strength, ``but in everything by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, we present our request to You'' that those that will lose their lives will find the comfort of Your presence and Your peace. ``O God which transcends all understanding, guard their hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.'' (Phil. 4: 6-7) We seek not war but peace and we know that You, O God, can bring peace if it is Your will; therefore, we put our trust in You and we know that ``You are the Lord, the God of all mankind. And nothing is too difficult for you.'' (Jer 32:37) Amen. Be sober, be vigilant, because our adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour. As we seek to do God's will, we must deliberately make ourselves subject one to another and be clothed with humility, for God resisteth the proud and giveth the grace to be humbled. Humble yourself therefore under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt us in due time, casting all our cares upon Him, for He careth for us all. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank Jeff Stewart for this thoughtful prayer and the comfort it provides during these times of needed guidance and wisdom--words from the heart and words from which we may all benefit.