Washington, DC April 21: In the Cannon House Office Building, TSCL’s Chairman George Smith, and Executive Director Shannon Benton presented TSCL’s 2004 MVP Award for Legislative Action to Representative Mike McIntyre (D-NC) for his “leadership in defense of seniors’ earned benefits,” said Shannon. On the Social Security front, Congressman McIntyre co-sponsored H.R. 97, The Notch Fairness Act and various other legislative initiatives that would protect the Trust Fund from being used for purposes other than what it was intended for.

In regards to Medicare, Congressman McIntyre voted time and again to reject the privatization of Medicare and provide for a defined drug benefit for seniors. He also voted to improve rural health care and to provide increases in Medicare reimbursements.

Congressman McIntyre has said, “Our seniors deserve a sensible, balanced, and fair Medicare-prescription drug benefit that will help the individuals who need it most. No senior should have to make the choice between buying groceries and purchasing the monthly medicine needed to live a healthy life.”

In accepting the award, Congressman McIntyre said his father is not only a WWII veteran but also a Notch Baby, so he knows first-hand the challenges faced by today’s seniors. Congressman McIntyre represents the Wilmington and Fayetteville areas of North Carolina.

TSCL's Board of Trustees were all on hand for the award. From left: Legislative Consultant David Funderburk, TSCL Chairman George Smith, TSCL Treasurer Thomas "Tom" O'Brien, Congressman McIntyre, TSCL Secretary Ralph McCutchen, TSCL PAC Treasurer Fred Athans, and Vice-Chair Dorothy "Dottie" Holmes.

Congressman McIntyre addresses the reception as Executive Director Shannon G. Benton looks on.

TSCL President George Smith, right, presents the TSCL 2004 "MVP Award for Legislative Action" to Congressman Mike McIntyre of North Carolina.

April 2005