Mike McIntyre

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, what a privilege it is to be with you today. I am especially pleased that my wife is here! She got up early and left North Carolina at 5:00 a.m. to surprise me. [applause] Yes, lets give her a hand! And I appreciate my staff being here! In just a little while--back in my hometown of Lumberton, North Carolina--scores of people will be gathering around the Robeson County Courthouse to pray for us here in Washington--and for our nation and our world. Ten years ago I was part of a local family commission that began our observance of the National Day of Prayer back home, and it has been exciting to see the ever-increasing number of people who gather to pray on this day--both locally and nationally. Why should we pray? Why is prayer important? Think about it! How many times have we prayed really expecting on answer? Prayer is important because it emphasizes God's peace, God's power, God's purpose. Peace, power and purpose. First, we know God's peace through prayer. Luke 18:1 is a parable to show that all times we ought to pray and not lose heart. So often we consume ourselves with fear rather than with faith. We forget that prayer should be the first resort, not the last resort! Too often we buy the lie that the world has taught us: ``Well, I guess there's nothing left to do but pray about it!'' We ought to talk to God first, because He already knows the outcome, and He can handle it! So often we rob ourselves of peace because we forget that God is bigger than any problem we may face. We should open our Bible-right in the middle to Psalms and read out loud in our closet or our room Psalms 140-145. As we praise God first, we will realize the truth of the Scripture that says God inhabits the praise of his people, and He will give us peace in the midst of our circumstances. Second, prayer is important because it reminds us of God's power. ``Ask, and it shall be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock and it shall be opened to you,'' Jesus teaches in Matthew 7:7. ``For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks,, it will be opened.'' Many times, we don't even bother to ask for help of guidance. God promises to give us wisdom if we just ask. He has the power to protect and provide. ``When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; ... they will not overflow you,'' God says in Isaiah. ``When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched.'' Third, prayer not only gives us God's peace and power, but also His purpose. Many of you have said you saw several of us in Congress singing ``God Bless America'' on the Capitol steps as the sun set on 9/ 11 after the terrorist attacks. Some have wondered if that was orchestrated or not. Actually, late that afternoon, several of us met in Capitol Police headquarters to talk by telephone speaker with Speaker Hastert and Leader Gephardt, who were at an undisclosed location. After we finished talking with them about that evening's press conference, someone suggested that we pray together. The House chaplain offered to let us walk to one of the local churches, but we said that we didn't have to go somewhere to pray; we could pray right there. And we did. After the chaplain prayed, we had an opportunity to pray out loud. After a few moments, a few of us did pray. And when we concluded, we sang ``God Bless America'' as a closing prayer. That night, after the Senate and the House leaders spoke at the press conference, members who had been at the prayer time a couple of hours earlier spontaneously broke out into singing that prayer, ``God Bless America.'' We cannot know God's will--God's purpose--if we won't talk with Him. As Rosalind Rinker has written, Prayer is the expression of the human heart in conversation with God . . . prayer is a dialogue between two persons who love each other.'' Peace, power, purpose! That is what prayer is about, and that is what we as one nation under God should be about! Dr. Charles Allen expresses it well in a poem: ``Worry? Why worry? What can worry do? It never keeps a trouble from overtaking you. It gives you indigestion and sleepless hours at night, And fills with gloom the days, however fair and bright. It puts a frown upon the face and sharpness to the tone; We're unfit to live with others and unfit to live alone. Pray? Why pray? What can praying do? Praying really changes things, arranges life anew. It's good for you digestion, gives peaceful sleep at night And fills the grayest, gloomiest day--with rays of glowing light. It puts a smile upon your face, The love note in your tone Makes you fit to live with others, and fit to live alone. Pray? Why pray? What can praying do? It brings God down from Heaven To live and work with you.'' We all should follow the teaching of I Thessalonians 5:17 ``to pray without ceasing.'' Indeed, if any of us desire to know the True Source of Power, it cannot be found in a building, in a person, or in a place; it must be found in the one who is the only true source of power. Prayer gives us an opportunity to express our heart to God, and it gives Him the opportunity to speak to a receptive heart. May all of our hearts be receptive to this power. Pray for us here in Washington that we may rely upon the wisdom which only He can give. (1) Please pray not only for wisdom for members of Congress but also for a spirit of harmony even during debate about important issues. (2) Pray for a greater spiritual awareness and depth to our relationships with each other personally here in Congress. (3) Pray that more hearts would be opened to salvation and stronger faith in the God who has given us this wonderful land and this opportunity to be a beacon of hope in a world of despair. As Paul says in his letter to the Phillippians: ``Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, shall guard your hearts and . . . minds in Christ Jesus.''

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of North Carolina State Senator Luther Henry Jordan, Jr., who recently passed away. He was a man who made a difference--a positive difference--that was a testimony to who he was. I enjoyed working with Senator Jordan on several matters of common concern to our area and to North Carolina. He was always ready to listen, and he made himself available. I remember when he had dinner with my family and me and some close friends during my first term in office. His kindness and generosity were self-evident in private as it was in public. Senator Jordan was a man of character, courage and commitment. Senator Jordan's character was reflected in his loyalty and integrity and unselfishness. His loyalty to his church and his community, his integrity in his personal, professional and political life, his unselfishness in giving of himself time and time again to improve the quality of life for all citizens--all are attributes of Senator Jordan's character. Second, in addition to his character, Senator Jordan's courage called forth the very best qualities of leadership. As a City Councilman in Wilmington for sixteen years, Luther Jordan always sought progress with harmony, building relationships and opening opportunities for everyone. As the first African-American Chairman of the Cape Fear Council of Governments, Luther Jordan knew how to reach out throughout our region, bringing together people and resources from communities and counties to improve all of Southeastern North Carolina. When he was elected to the State Senate, he always stepped forward and challenged others to do what was right, not just what was convenient or comfortable. Third, Senator Jordan was committed. His commitment to public service touched persons from all walks of life. Everywhere he went, his firm commitment led him to rise to the top in whatever areas served--from Mayor ProTempore of the city, to Chairman of the Council of Governments, to Majority Whip of the Senate, to Second Vice-Chairman of the North Carolina Democratic Party, to Chairman of the Legislative Black Caucus, Luther Jordan was a leader whose steadfast commitment to help others set an example of never giving up and always moving forward. Senator Luther Jordan--a man of character, courage and commitment, and a man whose leadership and friendship we will all miss. May God grant us more leaders--and friends--like Luther Henry Jordan, Jr.

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today and honor Thomas F. Miriello, the Area Director for Cumberland County Mental Health. On April 26, 2002, Mr. Miriello will retire after serving the people of North Carolina for over thirty-six years. Thomas Miriello was a strong and effective advocate for individuals and families affected by mental illness, substance abuse, and developmental disabilities. Mr. Miriello has received numerous awards spanning his career, including Mental Health Professional of the Year, the Lifetime Achievement Award from the North Carolina Foundation on Alcohol and Drug Studies, and Outstanding Young Men of America Award. Advocating for the mentally ill and educating the public about mental illness were the passion of Mr. Miriello. He has made countless contributions to generating and enhancing services, support, and quality of life for those individuals affected by mental illness, substance abuse, and developmental disability. Throughout his illustrious career, Mr. Miriello has served our communities and our nation with devotion, dedication, and determination. We owe Thomas Miriello our sincere appreciation for his thirty-six years of committed service to our state. His compassion for the people of North Carolina should serve as an example to us all. May God bless him and his family, and may God bless the great state of North Carolina.

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to acknowledge Cultural Fest 2002, hosted by Harold Collins. This event, which will be held in Robeson County, North Carolina from April 17-21, will bring together ethnic and cultural groups from this area to celebrate the diversity and strength of our region, state, and nation. Robeson County, as confirmed by the latest census, is the most culturally diverse of all one hundred counties in North Carolina. Robeson County is an area rich in heritage and history. This heritage and history will be on display during a Grand Parade uniting individuals from the numerous cultures represented within the county. Each cultural group will demonstrate its distinctive heritage during the event, providing individuals of all ages the opportunity to learn about the unique blend of cultures surrounding them. Furthermore, the event hopes to be a positive influence on the lives of the youth of Robeson County and surrounding areas, steering them away from drugs and violence and towards more benign outlets. Cultural Fest 2002 could serve as a model for other communities to emulate as a means of positively promoting the great diversity of our nation. The organizers of Cultural Fest 2002 should be commended for their efforts. My fellow colleagues, please join me in saluting the organizers of Cultural Fest 2002 for their efforts. May God's blessings shine upon this event.

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today and honor Sergeant Mike Humphrey of the North Carolina Highway Patrol. On March 31, 2002, Sergeant Humphrey retired after serving the people of North Carolina for over twenty-eight years. Mike Humphrey was a decorated officer, who spent his career ensuring that the people and the roads of North Carolina were safe. In 1977, Sergeant Humphrey was honored with the Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award. In addition, Sergeant Humphrey serves on the North Carolina Seventh Congressional District Law Enforcement Advisory Committee, where he is a positive voice for the law enforcement community. Protecting lives and patrolling our communities were not only the passion of Sergeant Humphrey, but also that of his father. The Humphreys were the first father and son to serve simultaneously in the history of the North Carolina Highway Patrol. We owe Sergeant Mike Humphrey our sincere appreciation for his twenty-eight years of committed service to our state. His determination, devotion, and dedication to the people of North Carolina should serve as an example to us all. May God bless him and his family, and may God bless the great state of North Carolina.

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, I offer my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Technical Sergeant John A. Chapman of the Twenty- fourth Special Tactics Squadron of the United States Air Force who gave his life in the service of our country. I join with his family and friends in paying tribute to him for his ultimate sacrifice on behalf of our Nation. My prayers are for his family. John Chapman was a decorated soldier who readily and courageously participated in Operation Enduring Freedom. Among his many awards and decorations were: two Air Force Commendation Medals, two Air Force Achievement Medals, and two Joint Service Achievement Medals. This tragedy should act as a reminder to all Americans that the liberties we hold dear are neither free nor secure. Our freedoms are earned and protected by our servicemen and women. They risk their lives so that freedom may survive. Technical Sergeant Chapman's courage in the face of danger reflects a character born of his commitment to his family as a devoted husband, father, and son, and his commitment to his many friends and to our country. We owe Technical Sergeant John Chapman our sincere appreciation for his 17 years of committed service to our Nation. His determination, devotion, and dedication to freedom should serve as an example for us all. It is important that we not only remember John as an excellent and dedicated airman and family man but also as the American hero that he is. May God bless him and his family and those who have served with him. May God bless our great country. We indeed are a better Nation because of John Chapman and those who serve with him in our Nation's Armed Forces.

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, I would like to offer my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Chief Warrant Officer Stanley Harriman of the Third Special Forces Group of the United States Army who gave his life in the service of our country. I join with his family and friends in paying tribute to him for the ultimate sacrifice that he has made on behalf of our Nation, and my prayers are with his family. Stanley Harriman was a decorated soldier who willfully and enthusiastically participated in Operation Enduring Freedom. Among his many awards and decorations were two Meritorious Service Medals, three Army Commendation Medals, three Army Achievement Medals, the Valorous Unit Award, Army Superior Unit Award, two Army Good Conduct Medals, the National Defense Service Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, three Southwest Asia Service Medals, the Humanitarian Service Medal, three Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Medals, the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon, the Master Parachutist Badge, and the Special Forces Tab. Now, because of his heroic actions in recent days, he will also receive the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. This tragedy should remind us that our freedom and our security are neither free nor secure; they are repeatedly earned and protected by our men and women in uniform. They risk their lives so freedom may survive. Chief Warrant Officer Harriman's courage in the face of danger reflects his character, a character born of his personal commitment to his Lord as a committed Christian and to his family as a committed husband, father, brother, and son. We owe Chief Warrant Officer Stanley Harriman a tremendous debt of gratitude. His courage, character, and commitment to freedom are an example to all of us. It is important that we not only remember Stanley as an excellent and dedicated soldier and Christian family man, but also as the American hero that he is. May God bless him and his family and those who have served with him. May God bless our great country. We indeed are a better Nation because of men like Stanley Harriman and those who serve with him in our Nation's Armed Forces.

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall Nos. 499 and 500, I was absent since I was unavoidably detained because of a security breach at the Charlotte Douglas Airport, which caused me to be unexpectedly re-routed through another airport on a later flight. This occurred on Tuesday, December 18, 2001. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Madam Speaker, General Shelton is a man of concern, commitment, and courage. His concern for freedom and family and faith led him in his desire to join the ROTC when he was a young man at North Carolina State University. His commitment to God and to his country and to his fellow man led to his staying in the U.S. Army not only after college but, as we all know, for quite a long and distinguished career. His courage to withstand the assaults upon liberty and freedom as a general throughout serving all the ranks in the Army as well as ultimately serving as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff led him to serve the United States of America with character and integrity, a testimony both to his Christian faith and to his unselfish sense of public service. We in the United States Congress should be pleased to have this opportunity to stand with a man who has stood for what America is all about through his concern, his commitment, and his courage. May God bless us with more leaders like Hugh Shelton, and may we honor General Shelton here tonight with this legislation that is pending before us.

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to pay to one of North Carolina's finest gentlemen, Staff Sergeant George Andrew Little, on his service and inspiration to our State and Nation. Theodore Roosevelt, our nation's 25th President, once said, ``It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man crumbled, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; . . . who knows the great enthusiasm, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who . . . knows in the end the triumph of high achievement.'' For four years, Sergeant Little was in the arena as part of our nation's military force defending freedom and defeating fear. And his spirit, service, and sacrifice continue to shine brightly today for all to emulate. Enlisting in the U.S. Marine Corps just prior to his 19th birthday, Staff Sergeant Little passed up two college scholarships to serve his country and fellow citizens. From Saipan to Okinawa, Staff Sergeant Little faced enemy fire, looked death in the face, but always persevered to continue serving his Nation. Even with the loss of his eyesight during conflict and undergoing over 50 operations to repair his facial structure, Mr. Little looked toward the future with optimism and energy. He next founded George A. Little, Inc., a construction and realty firm in North Carolina. From building houses to businesses to churches, Mr. Little became the first blind contractor in North Carolina. After defeating meningitis which was caused by fragments of bullet lodged in his forehead, Mr. Little, and his lovely wife Marie, now reside in Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina where he remains a dedicated public citizen. Mr. Speaker, these are trying times for our nation, our citizens, and our military. But through the efforts and heroism of individuals like George Andrew Little, the United States of America stands tall. I thank him for the service he has given to our state and nation. May God's strength, peace and joy be with him always.

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 402, I was unavoidably detained by traffic and missed this vote. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to pay tribute and special recognition to Evans Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church on their 200 years of service to the citizens of Fayetteville and Cumberland County, NC. Founded in 1801 by Mr. Henry Evans, a free black cobbler and Methodist preacher from Virginia, Evans AME Church has played an important role in the spiritual and cultural life for local citizens. From her missions of teaching, nurturing, caring, and growing in the word of God, Evans AME church stands tall as a beacon of hope for all to see. In establishing this wonderful church, Pastor Evans faced numerous trials and tribulations. But he always overcame them to keep the Word of the Lord alive and well in Cumberland County, Pastor Evans was driven out of Fayetteville on numerous occasions, imprisoned at least three times, and even swam across the icy Cape Fear River to keep preaching the gospel. Pastor Evans' perseverance finally prevailed in 1802 as town leaders granted him a license to preach. Mr. Speaker, 200 years later, Pastor Henry Evans' spirit continues to fill and move the congregation and community of Evans AME Church. I ask that all of my colleagues join me in recognizing this church on this historic occasion, knowing that as their motto states, ``We are a friendly church at the top of the hill on Cool Spring Street where visitors are always welcome.''

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Chairman, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the gentlemen from Texas, Chairman Combest and Charlie Stenholm, not only their hard work in crafting this farm bill, but also for the way in which they worked with members from all areas of the country to make sure we had the best bill that could have been drafted under the tough circumstances we faced. This bill will go a long way to help many of the producers that I represent in southeastern North Carolina, and believe me: the timing could not have come sooner. The agriculture sector is struggling in America, and farmers need our help. This bill provides an additional $73.5 billion for agriculture and our rural communities during a time they need it most. However, I would like to mention one area that could have used additional funding. For the past 6 years, peanut producers have been operating under a price support system that guaranteed $610 per ton of peanuts. During this time, the farmers' input costs, such as fuel and fertilizer, have also steadily increased, squeezing already thin profit margins. This bill changes the current program, and I fear North Carolina peanut producers will earn even less, only exacerbating farm sales in my area. Therefore, as this bill moves forward, I hope additional funds will be found for peanut producers. Nonetheless, Mr. Chairman, this is a good bill overall; I urge my colleagues to support it.

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to pay tribute to two of North Carolina's finest gentlemen, Brigadier General Willie Ray Johnson and Colonel Roger Fisher Hall, Jr., on their service to and retirement from the North Carolina National Guard. Theodore Roosevelt, our Nation's 25th president and a member of the National Guard, once said, ``It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man crumbled, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; . . . who knows the great enthusiasm, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who . . . knows in the end the triumph of high achievement.'' For a combined 68 years, General Johnson and Colonel Hall have been in the arena as part of our Nation's military force and our State's emergency response and community support. And they have served us well. Since joining the Guard at age 17, General Johnson has served in a variety of assignments and been awarded many decorations. From Supply Officer to Platoon Leader to Maintenance Battalion Commander to Deputy Adjutant General, Ray has served his State and country with distinction and devotion. This service has led to many awards including the Bronze Star Medal, National Defense Service Award, the Kuwait Liberation Medal, and the North Carolina Meritorious Unit Citation. In addition to his National Guard service, General Johnson has been an integral part of civic activities in Sampson County including president of the Roseboro Area Economic Development Commission, member of the Sampson County Shrine Club and a member of the Trustee Board of Sampson Regional Medical Center. Enlisting in the Guard just prior to his 20th birthday, Colonel Hall has also served in several capacities and received numerous decorations. From Transportation Officer to Motor Officer to Headquarters Commandant to Commander, Colonel Hall has served with character and commitment. His work has been honored by receipt of the Bronze Star Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, the Armed Forces Reserve Medal, and the Meritorious Service Medal. Colonel Hall is a member of the Board of Directors of BB&T Bank, has been named Business Person of the Year in Hope Mills, has served as past president of the Cumberland County Democratic Party, and serves me well as Executive Vice-Chairman of the Seventh Congressional District Military & Veterans Affairs Committee. Mr. Speaker, the North Carolina National Guard is one of the most respected and reliable guard forces in the world. General Johnson and Colonel Hall have been an integral part of their success, and on behalf of the citizens of southeastern North Carolina, I thank them for the service they have given to our State and Nation. May God's strength, peace, and joy be with both of them always.

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, the horrifying acts of terrorism which occurred yesterday were a cowardly act of attacking America. We in Congress must be dedicated and determined to take immediate action in three ways: First, to help the victims and their families, and to make sure that all Federal resources that are necessary are available; Second, to ensure that our liberties as American citizens are protected and that the American public is safe; Third, to make sure that the perpetrators are discovered and punished. Our focus must be on the injured and their families and those who are offering medical assistance, and others who are helping in so many different ways. It has taken, unfortunately, these horrifying acts of terrorism to draw attention to the resources and needs of our intelligence and defense agencies, and we must address those needs immediately so that our Nation's citizens know that their freedoms are not being compromised. We need prayer also for the injured and the suffering and their families, for our law enforcement, our EMS units, and our medical and health care providers, for our military, which stands ready to go whenever and wherever it is needed, and wisdom for our government in the decisions that we yet have to make. Now, more than ever, we as a Nation must have the will to find the way to move forward with those essential qualities of courage and conviction that constitute the character of America. By God's grace, and with His strength and wisdom, I am confident that we will.

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to congratulate the City of Fayetteville on its recent selection as an All-America City for 2001. This is quite an honor, and indeed one that is well-deserved. In particular, I would like to pay special tribute to those individuals who served on the Fayetteville All-America City Award Committee for their tremendous efforts to bring due recognition to this fine city located in the Seventh Congressional District of North Carolina. Under this committee's exemplary leadership, Fayetteville has been recognized as a model for all cities across the nation to emulate. By encouraging community-wide involvement to help address and solve local issues, the residents of Fayetteville have shown that they truly have what it takes to be All-America citizens. They are to be commended for their efforts to implement three innovative programs known as Operation Inasmuch, MetroVisions, and Study Circles. By fostering an atmosphere of commitment, cooperation, and community, these programs have served to make Fayetteville an even better place to call home. The City of Fayetteville is indeed privileged to have such dedicated citizens working tirelessly to promote all that this community has to offer. With hard work and dedication, the residents of Fayetteville have what it takes to make a real difference. I am confident that whatever challenges Fayetteville may have--now or in the future--the citizens of this fine city will overcome them and go forward with inspiration, imagination, and innovation. My fellow colleagues, please join me in saluting Fayetteville for this distinguished honor of being named an All-America City for 2001.

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Chairman, I would like to express my strong support for the amendment offered by the gentleman from Missouri (Mr. Skelton) to provide an additional $2.7 billion that is needed to meet the critical needs of our men and women in uniform. I am extremely disappointed that this amendment was not ruled in order. Why would this House not be willing to stand up on behalf of our Nation's military and provide it with the additional resources it needs to do its job? How can we send men and women into battle without all of the ammunition, spare parts and tools that they need to get the job done? These are the men and women who put their lives on the line each and every day to defend our freedom. This should not be about us saying one thing and then doing another. This is about the money needed to buy spare parts to repair equipment that can be as much as 30 years old. This is about money needed to buy bullets, ammunition, so our servicemen and women can get the training they need to prepare for battle. This is about the money needed to ensure that our military families have decent housing and do not have to depend on food stamps. Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues to support the Skelton amendment and to do the right thing, support fully our men and women in uniform.

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, what happens to the family matters. It matters to our children, it matters to our parents, it matters to our communities, it matters, yes, to our Nation. This Sunday, families all across America will come together and honor the role that fathers play in our families and in our society. I am grateful for the role that my father and his love for my family and me has played in my life. However, for many families, this will be just another Sunday, because there is no dad at home. In fact, an estimated 24.7 million children in this country live absent their biological fathers for whatever reason. As Members of the people's House, each of us should do all we can to promote policies and support programs that are father-friendly and that help families that may not have a father. First, we should pass H.R. 1300, the Responsible Fatherhood Act, that would provide resources to encourage responsible fatherhood and fund programs for local government, nonprofits, and religious and charitable organizations to help children. Second, we should all take time to lend our hands and our hearts to those children that may not have a dad around. Read to them, take them to a ball game, take time to talk, or just take time to listen. May God bless our fathers, especially this Father's Day.

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, on May 26, the U.S. House of Representatives voted on the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Conference Report, H.R. 1836. I am pleased that the House moved forward with this bill because I support tax relief for millions of hard-working families. I would have voted for this family friendly legislation; however, it was brought to the floor during a time that had officially been scheduled since the beginning of the year as a district work period. Moreover, this vote fell on the morning after my oldest son's graduation commencement at Lumberton Senior High School, a ceremony in which he was a speaker and was the first in his class to receive his diploma as Senior Class President. I am very grateful for his many achievements and I could not miss this once-in-a- lifetime event. As reflected in my earlier votes this year for tax relief, I would have supported H.R. 1836 because our families, small businesses, and family farmers need tax relief. This legislation is a bipartisan bill that will provide a marginal income tax rate reduction, estate tax relief, marriage penalty relief, and double the child-care tax credit. This bill provides for a gradual reduction in the tax rates that apply to individual income tax. American families have not received a broad-based federal tax cut since 1981, and many families need and want help now. Moreover, it will finally put an end to the incredibly unfair death tax, which for far too long has been effectively double-taxing the estates of hard-working Americans, destroying small, family-run businesses and draining our economy of its growth potential. It is clear that the estate tax in its current form is out-of-date and-out- of-step with this nation's proud tradition of supporting family-owned businesses and farms. I am also pleased that the legislation includes an elimination of the marriage penalty. This bill would eliminate the average $1,400 tax penalty on 25 million married couples across the nation. Statistics show that approximately 51,000 couples in southeastern North Carolina would benefit from this legislation, which would wipe out the marriage tax penalty by doubling the standard deduction for married couples. This issue is a question of fairness. The current tax code punishes American couples by penalizing them with a higher tax bracket for entering into marriage. This policy is wrong and discourages individuals from entering into society's most basis institution. Congress should advocate policies that strengthen families and help businessmen and women succeed in the workplace, not tax them for supporting their families. In addition, I support an increase in the child tax credit to $1,000. This provision would double the child tax credit and help the families of almost 91,000 children in the Seventh District of North Carolina alone. Returning tax dollars to families and individuals will continue to be a top priority for me in this Congress. These and other fair and responsible tax relief bills are needed to put more money where it belongs, into the pockets of hard-working Americans.

Mr. MCINTYRE

Mr. MCINTYRE. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of this amendment by the gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. Etheridge) and the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. Wamp). John Whitehead once said that ``children are the living messages we send to a time that we will not see.'' We have to ask ourselves what kind of messages are we sending through our children. Yes, of course they need the knowledge and skills in the classroom to prepare for the global economy; however, we must remember that schools also serve as an important tool to help build citizenship. As one who has volunteered the last 20 years in the classroom myself long before I came up here to Washington, I know that we have an opportunity, a golden one, to work with our teachers and educators to help our children. Children spend about 1,500 hours a year in front of the television, 900 hours a year in school. This is a golden opportunity for us to help develop good character and support what our schools can do to help our children. Character is developed over time by teaching by example, by learning, and by practice. It is developed through character education. I strongly support this amendment and urge all my colleagues to do so.

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, Tuesday, May 15, 2001, I was unavoidably absent for rollcall votes 109 through 113. Had I been present I would have voted ``yea'' on rollcall vote 109, ``yea'' on rollcall vote 110, ``yea'' on rollcall vote 111, ``yea'' on rollcall 112, and ``yea'' on rollcall 113.

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Richard Melvin Tyndall of Roseboro, North Carolina for his distinguished service and courageous leadership on behalf of the citizens of this great nation. As a World War II veteran, Richard Tyndall is an excellent example of all the men and women in uniform that have sacrificed to defend the values this nation holds dear. With over two years on the front line in England, Tunisia, and Germany, he received seven Battle Stars from the United States Army and the Le Croux De Gout Honor by the French Army for his integrity and courage. Richard Tyndall's valiant actions and his outstanding service to this nation serve to remind us of the gratitude we all feel toward this brave individual, along with all other servicemen and women who have served as guardians of this great country. President John F. Kennedy once said, ``For those to whom much is given, much is required. And when at some future date when history judges us, recording whether in our brief span of service we fulfilled our responsibilities to the state, our success or failure, in whatever office we hold, will be measured by the answers to four questions: First, were we truly men of courage . . . Second, were we truly men of judgment . . . Third, were we truly men of integrity . . . Finally, were we truly men of dedication?'' Richard Tyndall can truthfully answer each of these questions in the affirmative. He is indeed a man of courage, judgment, integrity, and dedication. May the actions of this brave individual live on in our hearts, and may God's strength and peace always be those who have fought for this great nation.

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the nation of Greece and recognize Americans of Greek descent in celebration of Greek Independence Day. Their spirit and determination throughout history has been an inspiration to us all. Throughout nearly four hundred years of Ottoman oppression, the Greeks maintained a unique cultural heritage. Toward the end of the Turkish occupation, this rich heritage instilled a new sense of nationalism in the Greek people. The ancient Greek ideal of freedom influenced them as well, and on March 25, 1821, they began a revolution that would eventually result in their liberty. This new independence was a victory not only for the Greeks but also for democracy. The history and culture of the Greeks have had a profound influence on the United States. The democratic values of the ancient Greeks encouraged our own revolution and inspired the development of our government. More recently, Greece has been a dependable ally, providing its support and friendship. In addition, Greek Americans continually benefit this nation, blessing us with their strong work ethic and distinctive culture. My fellow colleagues, please join me in congratulating Greece and its people on one hundred eighty years of independence.

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the East Bladen High School men's basketball team for their extraordinary accomplishment this month. Their spirit and determination throughout their 25-3 season has been an inspiration to us all. On Friday, March 9, the Cougars defeated Lexington High School 75-65 to win the North Carolina state 2-A men's basketball title for the second time in school history. This is truly an amazing achievement for Coach Alvin Thompson, his coaching staff and the entire Cougar team. This marked the third consecutive year that a team from the Waccamaw Conference has won North Carolina's 2-A championship and brought the trophy home to southeastern North Carolina. Throughout the year, the Cougars have represented the students and faculty of East Bladen High School well by sticking together and demonstrating good sportsmanship. Coach Thompson has instilled in his players the ethic of dedication, sacrifice, and teamwork in the pursuit of excellence, and he instilled in the rest of us a renewed appreciation of what it means to win with dignity and integrity. A loyal following of students, teachers, coaches, administrators, friends, and fans supported the Cougars. Their support made this a family affair and one that united the entire community. My fellow colleagues, please join me in saluting this fantastic group of players and their coaches, parents and classmates who made this East Bladen basketball season one to remember. Great job, Cougars! The 2000-2001 East Bladen High School Cougars (listed alphabetically): Michael Andrews; Travis Andrews; Eric Brown; Sakrid Dent; Aking Elting; James Freeman; William Graham; Colliek Hayes; Marvin McKiver; T.C. McKoy; Matthew McKoy; Rodrick McMillian; James McRae; Cozell Monroe; Jay Raynor; Antoine Peterson; Ritchie Priest; and Wesley Sasser.

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Lumberton High School women's basketball team for their tremendous accomplishment this week. Their spirit and determination throughout the 29-1 season has been an inspiration to us all. On Saturday, March 10, the Lady Pirates defeated East Wake High School 69-45 to win the North Carolina state 4-A girls' basketball title for the first time in school history. This is truly an amazing achievement for Coach Danny Graham, his coaching staff, and the entire Pirate team. It was the first state championship won by Lumberton's girls in any sport. Lumberton's only other state crown was a 2-A football title won in 1951. Throughout the year, the Lady Pirates have represented the students and faculty of Lumberton High School well by sticking together and demonstrating good sportsmanship. Coach Graham has instilled in his players the ethic of dedication, sacrifice, and teamwork in the pursuit of excellence, and instilled in the rest of us a renewed appreciation of what it means to win with dignity and integrity. Indeed, it was my distinct privilege to have personally experienced Coach Graham's excellence in both instruction and inspiration when I had the opportunity to coach our sons' basketball teams together in the Lumberton Recreation Department's basketball program several years ago. I also salute the many students, teachers, coaches, administrators, friends and fans of Lumberton High School who cheered our Lady Pirates throughout the season and through the playoffs to the ultimate victory in Chapel Hill. Your unwavering support made this truly a family affair and an opportunity for unity in our community! My fellow colleagues, please join me in congratulating this extraordinary group of players and their coaches, parents and classmates who cheered them on and made this year's basketball season one to remember. Congratulations, Pirates! The 2000-2001 Lumberton High School Lady Pirates (listed alphabetically): Sheena Bell; Katrice Brunson; Juachaun Cogdell; Anna Evans; Jennifer Hammonds; Letecia Hardin; Alicia Hunt; Jessica Hunt; Missy Jones; Cheryl Locklear; Shakwonda McArn; Billie McDowell; and LaTonya Washington.