[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 96 (Thursday, July 21, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: July 21, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
   A TRIBUTE TO FORMER RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA MAYOR, AVERY UPCHURCH

                                 ______


                           HON. TIM VALENTINE

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 21, 1994

  Mr. VALENTINE. Mr. Speaker, the recent death of former Raleigh, NC, 
Mayor Avery Upchurch has left all citizens of my State's capital area 
poorer.
  Avery Upchurch was a remarkable public servant. In a political era 
that too often rewards style over substance, Avery was a worker who 
cared much more about making government work for the people than about 
grabbing headlines for himself.
  Under his leadership, the Raleigh city government reached out to 
every group and segment of the community. Avery never shirked his 
responsibility to lead and to make the tough choices, but he always 
made sure that all citizens had the opportunity to be heard and to have 
their views and interests considered seriously.
  Moreover, during the Upchurch administration, city government 
operated in the full light of day. Whether individuals or groups agreed 
with his decisions or not, they at least had confidence in the process 
that produced those decisions.
  Although Raleigh is not in the congressional district I represent, I 
came to know Avery Upchurch well during the past 12 years because of 
his intense interest in the people of the entire research triangle 
area. He worked hard and effectively to promote economic development 
and job growth throughout the triangle, and his advice on 
transportation matters was especially valuable to me.
  Avery Upchurch was always determined but never ill-tempered, always 
inclusive but never indecisive, and always a leader but never arrogant. 
He will be missed by everyone who cares about Raleigh and North 
Carolina.
  The News & Observer perhaps said it best in an editorial about Avery 
Upchurch's career and legacy:

       He was not flashy, nor was he a fiery orator who left 
     volumes of colorful quotes in his public wake. He was more a 
     worker, a do-er, an achiever. The city he served was better 
     for his service. The friends he knew were richer for his 
     friendship. No more satisfying epitaph can be written.

  I hope that my State will be fortunate enough to have more leaders 
like Avery Upchurch in the future.

                          ____________________