[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 60 (Tuesday, April 9, 2024)]
[House]
[Page H2147]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       IN RECOGNITION OF AUBURN UNIVERSITY MEN'S BASKETBALL TEAM

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from 
Alabama (Mr. Moore) for 5 minutes.
  Mr. MOORE of Alabama. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Auburn 
University's men's basketball team as the 2024 SEC Tournament 
champions.
  It is my honor to congratulate Coach Bruce Pearl, the players, and 
staff on an outstanding season once again. The Auburn Tigers won their 
third SEC championship in program history as they fought to the finish 
line, beating the University of Florida 86-67.
  As 1 Peter 4:10 says: ``As each one has received a gift, minister it 
to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.''
  Winning this championship is not just about the celebration on the 
court, but it is a testament to the Tigers' character, dedication, and 
efforts for Christ.
  Through the leadership of Coach Pearl, this program has embodied the 
Auburn creed by believing in a sound mind, a sound body, and a spirit 
that is not afraid. As they have developed these qualities, they have 
worked heartily and confidently to achieve their worldly and eternal 
goals.
  The Auburn men's basketball team, under the leadership of Coach Bruce 
Pearl, has set a standard of excellence that will be remembered for 
years to come, not just in athletics, but in every aspect of life.
  The State of Alabama is blessed to have men like them, and it is 
great to be an Auburn Tiger. ``War Eagle.''


                          Second Chance Month

  Mr. MOORE of Alabama. Mr. Speaker, April is Second Chance Month, a 
time to raise awareness of the challenges people face when attempting 
to return to life after time behind bars.
  Securing a steady job, housing, and reintegrating into a community 
can be tough when you have a criminal record. This is a challenge that 
more than 70 million Americans face.
  However, America is built on the principles of God and His grace. It 
has always been a land of new beginnings and second chances.
  I am proud Alabama's Second Congressional District is home to J.F. 
Ingram State Technical College, which helps provide many of these 
second chances through education.
  J.F. Ingram State offers 20 technical training programs for 
incarcerated adults, including automotive repair, construction, 
cosmetics, and logistics. I can vouch for the extensive training, as I 
visited last year and got a wonderful haircut.

  In 2022, they placed nearly 250 formerly incarcerated adults in jobs. 
Those who participate in these correctional programs through education 
are 43 percent less likely to recidivate than those who do not.
  Lamentations 3:21-23 King James version says: ``This, I recall to my 
mind, therefore have I hope. It is of the Lord's mercies that we are 
not consumed because His compassions fail not. They are new every 
morning. Great is thy faithfulness.''
  May we all be reminded of God's compassion towards us as we consider 
supporting those who are committed to rectifying their mistakes. 
Getting back on track and making meaningful contributions to society 
can reduce recidivism and make our communities a better place.

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