Jim Bunning

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that further materials be printed in the Record following my remarks.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I rise today to honor and congratulate the players and coaches of the Western Kentucky University Hilltopper football team on winning the 2002 NCAA Division I-AA National Championship. When people take a look back at Western's championship season, they will certainly wonder how in the world a team which lost three of its first five games wound up winning the national title? The answer lies in the hearts and minds of every single member of Western Kentucky's team, from the coaches to freshmen walk-ons. Not only did this team refuse to give up, they made it their mission to work harder on and off the field to achieve their dreams and goals. Head Coach Jack Harbaugh deserves special recognition for his ability to right Western's ship before it veered too far off course. Having to go on a six game win streak simply to reach the post- season, Western entered the Division I-AA playoffs as a longshot. To even reach the championship game, Western had to beat the number two and three rated teams in the nation. Once in the title game, Western was simply too strong to be stopped. They beat the number one rated McNeese State Cowboys by a score of 34-14, exacting revenge on the team which had beat them early in the season. Quarterback Jason Michael threw for a career-high 185 yards and running back Jon Frazier added 159 yards on the ground in the national title match. This was Western Kentucky University's first NCAA football championship. Mr. President, I ask that my fellow colleagues join me in congratulating the Hilltopper football players, Head Coach Jack Harbaugh, Athletic Director Dr. Wood Selig and Dr. Gary Ransdell on winning the 2002 Division I-AA National Championship. This win reflects very highly on Western Kentucky University and the entire Commonwealth of Kentucky. Who said Kentucky wasn't a football State?

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Madam President, I am pleased the Senate is able to pass legislation to establish the Department of Homeland Security before Congress adjourns the 107th Congress sine die. After the terror attacks on September 11, 2001 it has been the mission of President Bush and many in Congress to create this new Department, and it is particularly pleasing to get this done now rather than waiting until Congress starts up the 108th Congress in January of 2003. And I know as well the American people are supportive of getting this legislation passed now rather than later. Those who oppose this legislation before us may have some legitimate and principled concerns as to why they do not support this bill. By all means, the bill is not entirely perfect and I think most members of Congress would attest to that. But neither were the original bills to create any other federal department or agency perfect on the first try. That is why we have committee hearings on these issues, and I am sure we will pass supplemental and technical bills over the years to legislatively mold the new Department of Homeland Security so that it is stronger and more efficient. But we needed to get this bill rolling now. Every day is vital as we fight this new war on terrorism. Delaying the creation of this new department another three or four months could set America back in her defenses. Every day that goes by without work being done to create and organize this new department simply puts us back further and further. We just can't afford to let that happen. This is serious business. Although this bill may not be perfect and some may disagree with a few of its provisions, it is not so controversial that the bill deserves nor needs to be killed outright. We can come back and revisit those extraneous provisions some of my colleagues have been talking about. But we need to get the ball rolling. Agencies need to be realigned. We need to get rid of some of the duplicity amongst some of these agencies. Communication and information channels need to be streamlined. There is a lot of work to be done and every day counts. Earlier in this debate I came to the floor and spoke about the need for President Bush and future presidents to be able to have the authority and flexibility to hire and transfer employees, and even be able to terminate some employees, within the new Department of Homeland Security to ensure its mission can be undertaken. For weeks we had a real disagreement on this issue. Some wanted to ensure that workers were protected and preserved in their employment regardless of their performance or real need. Fortunately, in the end we have a piece of legislation that frees the hands of the president by giving him the necessary management and personnel flexibilities to integrate these new agencies into a more effective whole. While providing this flexibility, we still preserve the fundamental worker protections from unfair practices such as discrimination, political coercion, and whistle-blower reprisal. This flexibility and authority will better serve our president, the homeland and Americans. New provisions are also added to this bill to help protect our borders. We do this by moving the Coast Guard, Customs Service, Immigration and Naturalization Service, and border inspectors at Animal Plant Health Inspection Services all under the new Department of Homeland Security. This action is long overdue and a reminder to us that the first step in defending America is to secure her borders. As well, this bill helps to ensure that our communities and first responders are prepared to address threats. This bill does this by moving FEMA and the Secret Service under the new Department of Homeland Security. By moving FEMA, we are clarifying who's in charge, and response teams will be able to communicate clearly and work with one another. We will also benefit by the Department of Homeland Security being able to depend on the Secret Service's protective functions and security expertise. Some have voiced concerns that we are limiting and not protecting the freedoms and privacy of Americans in this bill. I would say to my colleagues that at the core, the real reason for this bill is to ensure just the opposite, to provide security and protect our freedoms. We have in this bill specific legal protections to ensure that our freedom is not undermined. This bill prohibits the federal government from having the authority to nationalize drivers' licenses and other ID cards. Also, the bill establishes a privacy officer. This is the first such officer established by law in a cabinet department. Working as a close advisor to the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, this privacy officer will ensure technology research and new regulations respect the civil liberties Americans enjoy. There are many other vital provisions in this bill which are needed to better protect our freedom and the homeland. It is a good and solid bill. It may not be perfect, but rarely are there any perfect pieces of legislation we pass here in the Senate. I am sure we will revisit this legislation and issue again, in committee hearings as well as considering technical and supplemental homeland legislation on the Senate floor. But it is imperative we pass this legislation now. We have worked hard on this bill, too hard to just let it die in the 107th Congress. We need to get it to President Bush's desk before we adjourn sine die. The sooner we get it to him, the better it is for the protection of the homeland and Americans.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to Century Construction in Erlanger, KY. Last Friday, Sandy Taylor, Assistant Administrator for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's, OSHA, 5th region in Chicago, presented Mike Mangeot, President and CEO of Century Construction, with a Voluntary Protection Program, VPP, award for Century's exemplary record of safety in the workplace. OSHAs Voluntary Protection Programs are designed to recognize and promote effective safety and health management. In the programs, management, labor and OSHA work together to establish a cooperative relationship aimed at improving safety standards in the workplace. VPP participants are a select group of facilities, which have designed and implemented outstanding health and safety programs. Kevin Still, Century's Vice President for Administration and Safety Director in charge of Century's safety programs, deserves special recognition for the part he has played in creating a safe working environment for Century's employees. Kevin has been an integral part of Century's success. There are over 6 million work places in the United States. Of these, only 900 have received VPP awards. Out of the nearly 750,000 construction contractors in this country, only three have won a VPP award for safety. Century is the first ever mobile site participant to win this award. By working with employees from both top-to-bottom and bottom-to-top, Century has demonstrated how far communication and teamwork can take an organization. The men and women of Century Construction deserve our admiration and respect for their hard work and determination. I am proud to know that such companies are operating within Kentucky.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, on October 24, 2002, the Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant in Paducah, KY commemorated and celebrated its 50th anniversary. In 1952, the Paducah Plant began the process of enriching uranium to help build and maintain our national security against our adversaries throughout the Cold War era, and to this day the 1,500 workers there continue their work to help ensure a safer world by dismantling nuclear agents from Russia's stockpile of weapons from its gladly-gone-days as the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics. Throughout these past 50 years, the Federal Government did not always shoot straight with the Paducah Plant workers. Much of the time the workers were exposed to harsh and deadly chemical and industrial agents. Many became sick and many died while the Federal Government looked the other way. But throughout these times these workers forged ahead, and they continue to do so today. Now knowing the dangers of then and even the risks that go along with their jobs today, these dedicated workers still roll up their sleeves and get the job done, without complaint and with no questions asked. They are selfless and humble. The history of the Paducah Plant and its workers, and what they have and continue to do to ensure a more peaceful world, has and will continue to be an inspiration to us all. The Paducah Plant is tucked away in God's country in southwest Kentucky between the Ohio River and rolling prairies and farmland. The Paducah community and those in the surrounding area have been bedrock in their support of this plant and its workers, and they are owed a great deal of gratitude as well on this 50th anniversary. They have always been there with support and prayer for these plant workers and their family members during the toughest and roughest of times. While the Federal Government and others turned away and failed to live up to their responsibilities to the Paducah Plant workers-- neighbors, friends and family members were always there to comfort them and each other. This is a spirit which humbles us all. May God bless all those associated with this plant and its mission. We owe all of them more than we will ever realize.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I rise today to address an important area for American foreign policy: much needed political reform in Egypt. In the past, Egypt has proven to be a helpful ally. Egypt showed courage in becoming the first Arab nation to sign a peace treaty with Israel after the Camp David talks in 1978. Egypt fought with the broad international coalition we led as part of the Gulf War in 1990-91. And I believe that at times Egypt has helped to provide a moderate and thoughtful voice to discussions with more radical Arab states about Middle East and international issues. In fact, Egypt was banned from the Arab League for a number of years for some of its stands, and President Sadat was assassinated for his role in the Camp David talks. However, I am very concerned about political repression in Egypt and the effect that this could have on the direction that nation takes in the future and on the larger issue of Middle East peace. We have seen in recent years how political and economic repression in many Arab states have fueled the fires of Islamic radicalism. Arab communities that have little or no hope of economic progress, and where views are stifled by autocratic authorities, have proven to be fertile ground for radicals like Osama bin Laden and others who play to their fears, and use their anger and frustration as weapons. We know that radical Islamic fundamentalism and terrorism thrive in nations struggling with oppression and poverty. I think there is a clear link between the motives we have seen of those individuals involved in the September 11 attacks, the bombing of the Khobar towers and other terrorist acts with the repressive environments in their home nations. Now I am afraid that the lack of political and legal reform in Egypt has become a growing problem, and this could further add to other mounting obstacles we now see in the Arab world. Consequently, the Egyptian government needs to seriously address democratic and institutional reform and it needs to do so quickly. Since holding out an olive branch to Israel at Camp David, Egypt has received a great deal of American economic and military assistance. While many roads and infrastructure projects have been built over the years, now is the time to press Egypt to embrace and enact political reforms. This will have a positive impact on both Egyptian civil society and the economy. For instance, as a Washington Post editorial recently pointed, Egypt needs to develop a responsible media that objectively reports news and information instead of government-backed anti-American and anti-Semitic propaganda that does nothing but fuel tensions throughout the region. Also, Egypt needs to do a better job of strengthening the rule of law. This is fundamental not only to the development of a market economy, but to more robust social expression. I believe it would be in Egypt's best interest to immediately release Saad Eddin Ibrahim, a dual American-Egyptian citizen who is in prison for the ``crime'' of advocating political reforms. So far we have not debated in the Senate on the Foreign Operations appropriations bill for the 2003 fiscal year. And it now looks like we may not even have the opportunity to address it at all before the end of this Congress. But, let me serve notice to my colleagues that when the Senate takes up the Foreign Operations bill next year that I plan to bring up the issue of political reform in Egypt and ask that we take a closer look at U.S. aid to that nation. In fact, I have already drafted an amendment that would modify current law to expand the understanding that in providing assistance, the United States expects both economic and political reform be undertaken in Egypt. I very much look forward to this debate.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Madam President, I am pleased the Senate is able to pass legislation to establish the Department of Homeland Security before Congress adjourns the 107th Congress sine die. After the terror attacks on September 11, 2001 it has been the mission of President Bush and many in Congress to create this new Department, and it is particularly pleasing to get this done now rather than waiting until Congress starts up the 108th Congress in January of 2003. And I know as well the American people are supportive of getting this legislation passed now rather than later. Those who oppose this legislation before us may have some legitimate and principled concerns as to why they do not support this bill. By all means, the bill is not entirely perfect and I think most members of Congress would attest to that. But neither were the original bills to create any other federal department or agency perfect on the first try. That is why we have committee hearings on these issues, and I am sure we will pass supplemental and technical bills over the years to legislatively mold the new Department of Homeland Security so that it is stronger and more efficient. But we needed to get this bill rolling now. Every day is vital as we fight this new war on terrorism. Delaying the creation of this new department another three or four months could set America back in her defenses. Every day that goes by without work being done to create and organize this new department simply puts us back further and further. We just can't afford to let that happen. This is serious business. Although this bill may not be perfect and some may disagree with a few of its provisions, it is not so controversial that the bill deserves nor needs to be killed outright. We can come back and revisit those extraneous provisions some of my colleagues have been talking about. But we need to get the ball rolling. Agencies need to be realigned. We need to get rid of some of the duplicity amongst some of these agencies. Communication and information channels need to be streamlined. There is a lot of work to be done and every day counts. Earlier in this debate I came to the floor and spoke about the need for President Bush and future presidents to be able to have the authority and flexibility to hire and transfer employees, and even be able to terminate some employees, within the new Department of Homeland Security to ensure its mission can be undertaken. For weeks we had a real disagreement on this issue. Some wanted to ensure that workers were protected and preserved in their employment regardless of their performance or real need. Fortunately, in the end we have a piece of legislation that frees the hands of the president by giving him the necessary management and personnel flexibilities to integrate these new agencies into a more effective whole. While providing this flexibility, we still preserve the fundamental worker protections from unfair practices such as discrimination, political coercion, and whistle-blower reprisal. This flexibility and authority will better serve our president, the homeland and Americans. New provisions are also added to this bill to help protect our borders. We do this by moving the Coast Guard, Customs Service, Immigration and Naturalization Service, and border inspectors at Animal Plant Health Inspection Services all under the new Department of Homeland Security. This action is long overdue and a reminder to us that the first step in defending America is to secure her borders. As well, this bill helps to ensure that our communities and first responders are prepared to address threats. This bill does this by moving FEMA and the Secret Service under the new Department of Homeland Security. By moving FEMA, we are clarifying who's in charge, and response teams will be able to communicate clearly and work with one another. We will also benefit by the Department of Homeland Security being able to depend on the Secret Service's protective functions and security expertise. Some have voiced concerns that we are limiting and not protecting the freedoms and privacy of Americans in this bill. I would say to my colleagues that at the core, the real reason for this bill is to ensure just the opposite, to provide security and protect our freedoms. We have in this bill specific legal protections to ensure that our freedom is not undermined. This bill prohibits the federal government from having the authority to nationalize drivers' licenses and other ID cards. Also, the bill establishes a privacy officer. This is the first such officer established by law in a cabinet department. Working as a close advisor to the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, this privacy officer will ensure technology research and new regulations respect the civil liberties Americans enjoy. There are many other vital provisions in this bill which are needed to better protect our freedom and the homeland. It is a good and solid bill. It may not be perfect, but rarely are there any perfect pieces of legislation we pass here in the Senate. I am sure we will revisit this legislation and issue again, in committee hearings as well as considering technical and supplemental homeland legislation on the Senate floor. But it is imperative we pass this legislation now. We have worked hard on this bill, too hard to just let it die in the 107th Congress. We need to get it to President Bush's desk before we adjourn sine die. The sooner we get it to him, the better it is for the protection of the homeland and Americans.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to Century Construction in Erlanger, KY. Last Friday, Sandy Taylor, Assistant Administrator for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's, OSHA, 5th region in Chicago, presented Mike Mangeot, President and CEO of Century Construction, with a Voluntary Protection Program, VPP, award for Century's exemplary record of safety in the workplace. OSHAs Voluntary Protection Programs are designed to recognize and promote effective safety and health management. In the programs, management, labor and OSHA work together to establish a cooperative relationship aimed at improving safety standards in the workplace. VPP participants are a select group of facilities, which have designed and implemented outstanding health and safety programs. Kevin Still, Century's Vice President for Administration and Safety Director in charge of Century's safety programs, deserves special recognition for the part he has played in creating a safe working environment for Century's employees. Kevin has been an integral part of Century's success. There are over 6 million work places in the United States. Of these, only 900 have received VPP awards. Out of the nearly 750,000 construction contractors in this country, only three have won a VPP award for safety. Century is the first ever mobile site participant to win this award. By working with employees from both top-to-bottom and bottom-to-top, Century has demonstrated how far communication and teamwork can take an organization. The men and women of Century Construction deserve our admiration and respect for their hard work and determination. I am proud to know that such companies are operating within Kentucky.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, on October 24, 2002, the Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant in Paducah, KY commemorated and celebrated its 50th anniversary. In 1952, the Paducah Plant began the process of enriching uranium to help build and maintain our national security against our adversaries throughout the Cold War era, and to this day the 1,500 workers there continue their work to help ensure a safer world by dismantling nuclear agents from Russia's stockpile of weapons from its gladly-gone-days as the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics. Throughout these past 50 years, the Federal Government did not always shoot straight with the Paducah Plant workers. Much of the time the workers were exposed to harsh and deadly chemical and industrial agents. Many became sick and many died while the Federal Government looked the other way. But throughout these times these workers forged ahead, and they continue to do so today. Now knowing the dangers of then and even the risks that go along with their jobs today, these dedicated workers still roll up their sleeves and get the job done, without complaint and with no questions asked. They are selfless and humble. The history of the Paducah Plant and its workers, and what they have and continue to do to ensure a more peaceful world, has and will continue to be an inspiration to us all. The Paducah Plant is tucked away in God's country in southwest Kentucky between the Ohio River and rolling prairies and farmland. The Paducah community and those in the surrounding area have been bedrock in their support of this plant and its workers, and they are owed a great deal of gratitude as well on this 50th anniversary. They have always been there with support and prayer for these plant workers and their family members during the toughest and roughest of times. While the Federal Government and others turned away and failed to live up to their responsibilities to the Paducah Plant workers-- neighbors, friends and family members were always there to comfort them and each other. This is a spirit which humbles us all. May God bless all those associated with this plant and its mission. We owe all of them more than we will ever realize.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I rise today to address an important area for American foreign policy: much needed political reform in Egypt. In the past, Egypt has proven to be a helpful ally. Egypt showed courage in becoming the first Arab nation to sign a peace treaty with Israel after the Camp David talks in 1978. Egypt fought with the broad international coalition we led as part of the Gulf War in 1990-91. And I believe that at times Egypt has helped to provide a moderate and thoughtful voice to discussions with more radical Arab states about Middle East and international issues. In fact, Egypt was banned from the Arab League for a number of years for some of its stands, and President Sadat was assassinated for his role in the Camp David talks. However, I am very concerned about political repression in Egypt and the effect that this could have on the direction that nation takes in the future and on the larger issue of Middle East peace. We have seen in recent years how political and economic repression in many Arab states have fueled the fires of Islamic radicalism. Arab communities that have little or no hope of economic progress, and where views are stifled by autocratic authorities, have proven to be fertile ground for radicals like Osama bin Laden and others who play to their fears, and use their anger and frustration as weapons. We know that radical Islamic fundamentalism and terrorism thrive in nations struggling with oppression and poverty. I think there is a clear link between the motives we have seen of those individuals involved in the September 11 attacks, the bombing of the Khobar towers and other terrorist acts with the repressive environments in their home nations. Now I am afraid that the lack of political and legal reform in Egypt has become a growing problem, and this could further add to other mounting obstacles we now see in the Arab world. Consequently, the Egyptian government needs to seriously address democratic and institutional reform and it needs to do so quickly. Since holding out an olive branch to Israel at Camp David, Egypt has received a great deal of American economic and military assistance. While many roads and infrastructure projects have been built over the years, now is the time to press Egypt to embrace and enact political reforms. This will have a positive impact on both Egyptian civil society and the economy. For instance, as a Washington Post editorial recently pointed, Egypt needs to develop a responsible media that objectively reports news and information instead of government-backed anti-American and anti-Semitic propaganda that does nothing but fuel tensions throughout the region. Also, Egypt needs to do a better job of strengthening the rule of law. This is fundamental not only to the development of a market economy, but to more robust social expression. I believe it would be in Egypt's best interest to immediately release Saad Eddin Ibrahim, a dual American-Egyptian citizen who is in prison for the ``crime'' of advocating political reforms. So far we have not debated in the Senate on the Foreign Operations appropriations bill for the 2003 fiscal year. And it now looks like we may not even have the opportunity to address it at all before the end of this Congress. But, let me serve notice to my colleagues that when the Senate takes up the Foreign Operations bill next year that I plan to bring up the issue of political reform in Egypt and ask that we take a closer look at U.S. aid to that nation. In fact, I have already drafted an amendment that would modify current law to expand the understanding that in providing assistance, the United States expects both economic and political reform be undertaken in Egypt. I very much look forward to this debate.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, it is with great pride that I rise today to pay tribute to Senator Tim Hutchinson of Arkansas Since 1985, when he first began his career in public service as a member of the Arkansas State House of Representatives, Tim Hutchinson has fought for the people of Arkansas and the citizens of the United States of America. Throughout his 12 years in public office at the State and Federal level, Tim has worked hard to push his conservative agenda and ideals. He has been a strong proponent of a balanced budget, tax relief and reform of our Nation's education system. As a Member of the House of Representatives from 1992 to 1998, Tim authored the much needed $500-per-child tax credit, which allows parents to place as much as $2,000 per year, per child, in a designated savings account. He was also one of the main actors in the pursuit to reform this nation's struggling and inefficient welfare system. Besides his many accomplishments in the areas of tax relief, education and welfare reform, Tim has been a major advocate of issues affecting our nation's veterans. He has worked tirelessly over the years to open additional outpatient clinics for veterans across Arkansas. As a Member of the U.S. Senate, Tim Hutchinson served on the Armed Service Committee, Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, Agriculture Committee, Veterans Affairs Committee and the Special Committee on Aging. As a member of the Education Working Group, Senator Hutchinson led the charge to pass the ``Education Savings Accounts'' Legislation. I am also very proud to have worked with Senator Hutchinson on trying to pass legislation which bans human cloning. I have had the honor of serving with Tim Hutchinson in both the House and Senate. I have served with him on the Senate Armed Service Committee and know first hand how hard this individual has worked to make this Nation a safer and better place for all to live. With his background as a teacher and businessman, Tim was able to bring both expertise and leadership to the Republican party. We need more public servants like Tim Hutchinson who champion empowerment over dependency. It was a pleasure and honor to serve with him in this body.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to my good friend and colleague, Senator Fred Thompson. Since his arrival in the Senate in 1994, Senator Thompson has been one of the most respected Members on both sides of the aisle. His constituents clearly have great admiration and respect for him. In 1996, Senator Thompson received more votes than any other candidate in the history of Tennessee and won his reelection by more than twenty points! Throughout his tenure in the Senate, Senator Thompson has been a tremendous supporter of conservative ideals and principles. As a member of the Senate Finance Committee, he has fought to reduce taxes for his fellow Tennesseans and all Americans, and helped to stabilize Medicare and Social Security for future generations. As a member of the Senate Government Affairs Committee, I have had the privilege of working with Senator Thompson on various projects when he served as chairman, and later as the ranking Republican member. The Senator should be congratulated for his hard work on the President's priority to create the Homeland Security Department. In a recent interview, Senator Thompson said he has ``always looked at public service as more an interruption to a career than a career itself.'' It is now time for Senator Thompson to begin his new career as the District Attorney on the hit television show ``Law and Order.'' I wish my good friend Senator Thompson well in his new job, and I leave him with this little piece of advice: don't let Hollywood turn you into a liberal! Senator Thompson will be missed not just by me, but this entire body, the people of Tennessee and all Americans. I will miss him as a Senator, but look forward to watching my friend on Wednesday nights as he begins his new career on ``Law and Order.''

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to my good friend and colleague, Senator Phil Gramm. Without Senator Gramm, none of us would ever know who Dicky Flatt is. We would not know nearly as much as we know about Texas A&M as we do. And we would probably still be trying to repeal Glass-Steagall. I met Senator Gramm on a number of occasions when I was a Member of the House of Representatives, but I did not really get to know him until I joined that Banking Committee in January 1999, when he was the chairman. Senator Gramm's first order of business was to finally pass a repeal of the Glass-Steagall banking law. I had worked on this same repeal during my first term in the House, 12 years earlier, and I know many others had been working on this effort for much longer than that. But it was Senator Gramm's dogged determination that finally pushed the ball over the goal line and brought our banking laws into the 21st Century. I won't bore everyone by going into a long list of Senator Gramm's other legislative accomplishments; they are too numerous to mention, but I would put him right up there with a small group of other senators who have had the greatest impact on the Senate in the past century. Outside of our working relationship, I have also gotten to know Senator Gramm, and his lovely life Wendy, very well over as friends. I would also like to tell a little story about how Senator Gramm's unselfishness greatly assisted me when I was in a tight spot. Everyone in this body remembers the anthrax attacks of last year. As a resident of the Hart Building, I was one of those who was forced to find other space when the Hart building was closed. The Architect of the Capitol, the Senate Superintendent and the Rules Committee did a great job, under very trying circumstances, of finding space for everyone. But there were about fifty offices that were relocated so space was tight. My staff and I were sitting on top of each other down in EF-100 underneath the back steps of the Capitol. We were glad to have the space. But it wasn't much more than a glorified broom closet. Well, Senator Gramm heard about my predicament and very graciously let me use his Capitol hideaway office until the Hart building was reopened. He only asked that I did not ``trash the place and leave empty whiskey bottles on the floor.'' I can assure the Members of the Senate and the people of the Commonwealth of Kentucky that I followed his instructions. I am also fairly confident that as much as I appreciated the kind gesture, my staff appreciated the fact I had somewhere else to go even more. It is not just Members who will miss Senator Gramm, but staff as well. We will miss his leadership, but I think we will miss his courage even more. Senator Gramm is wiling to take unpopular stands. He is willing to lose a vote 99-1. He is willing to keep the Senate in all night to fight for what he believes in, no matter how unpopular that stand may be. One example that stands out clearly in my mind was at the beginning of the debate on the Clinton health care bill. Many don't remember now, but when we first started working on that issue in Congress, President Clinton had a lot of momentum and it looked like only a foregone conclusion that he would get some sort of bill passed. Those of us who didn't the President's proposal really felt like we were swimming upstream. Then Phill Gramm took the Senate floor, and laid out a withering assessment of the bill and why it would do so much harm to the country if passed. He wrapped up his remarks by saying that ``the Clinton health bill would pass the Senate over my cold, dead political body.'' That served as a rallying cry for the rest of the Congress and signaled a real turning point in the debate. But, at the time, it wasn't popular and most people on Capitol Hill thought it wasn't very smart. But it was right. That's Phil Gramm for you. I have heard him say on more than one occasion. ``I've never taken a hostage I wasn't willing to shoot.'' Everyone knows Senator Phil Gramm will kill a bill if he thinks it's bad for America or if fellow Texans are being treated unfairly. And he has shot some legislative hostages. But more often than not, he was able, through negotiation, to work out a better product. I think the Senate will miss his homespun eloquence. I don't think there is anyone better at simplifying a complicated bill for his colleagues and the American people. Whether he uses the ``Dicky Flatt test'' or the wisdom his mama passed down to him, Senator Gramm has the unique ability to make the complicated simple. On this side of the aisle, that eloquence will be missed, he always did a great job of articulating our position. Mr. President, Senator Gramm will be missed not just by me, but this entire body, the people of Texans and all Americans. I will miss him as a Senator and a friend.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Madam President, I rise today to honor Bill Cappel of Covington, KY for his years of dedicated and selfless service to this nation and to the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Yesterday, Mr. Cappel celebrated his 90th birthday. In honor of this event, city officials in Covington presented Mr. Cappel with a key to the city, read a proclamation in his honor and even provided him with a special police escort as they officially named the Bill Cappel Youth Sports Complex after him. Bill Cappel is one of those rare individuals in life who has the innate ability to put a positive spin on every situation. The only thing harder than getting him out in a softball game is getting him to take that permanent smile off his face. As a soldier in World War II, not only did Bill Cappel earn the Legion of Merit and the Bronze Star for his courageous military service, he also organized baseball and softball games for the soldiers while on tours of duty in Africa and Europe as a way for the men to escape the darkness that surrounds war. It is this type of service that has led many to think of Bill Cappel as a saint. In 1933, Mr. Cappel organized a women's softball league in Covington as way to get more women involved in the sporting world. Nearly 30 years later, he founded the Covington Major Girls League at Meinken Field. Three of the teams from the Covington Major Girls League won national championships. Bill learned that when you treat people like champions, they play and act like champions. Throughout his life, Bill Cappel has given much to his country and the people of Northern Kentucky. He has always found a way to give back to the local community. In his mind, his actions do not merit any sort of special attention. He is simply trying to do for others what they have done for him. Whether it has been as a soldier, umpire, coach, player or friend, Bill Cappel has managed to make the world around him a better place for people to live. It truly is amazing how the actions of one man could positively affect so many. I believe we all can take something away from the life Bill Cappel has lived. In politics, we each took an oath to serve the people and uphold the Constitution of the United States of America. While Mr. Cappel never swore an oath, he has demonstrated to thousands of people how far the human spirit can travel.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Madam President, I rise today among my fellow colleagues to honor and pay tribute to Kentucky's last surviving World War I veteran. Of the 84,000 Kentuckians who were sent to fight in World War I, Rex Robley, 91 years young from Louisville, KY, is believed to be the only one still alive. This man has sacrificed and accomplished so much in just one lifetime. He truly exemplifies the American spirit. Monday, we as a Nation came together to celebrate Veterans Day. On this very important day, every American has the opportunity and the obligation to thank and honor those who so valiantly fought for our freedoms, rights and liberties in the trenches of France, the beaches of Normandy, the jungles of Korea and Vietnam and the deserts of Iraq. These men and women fought so that future generations would be able to live under a blanket of freedom that reaches from coast to coast. Sadly, thousands of these veterans are dying off in large numbers every year. During the 1990s, the number of World War II veterans in Kentucky decreased by nearly 54,000. The Kentucky Department of Veteran Affairs calculates that, on an average day, Kentucky loses 22 military veterans, of whom 17 were in World War II. To ensure that this country continues to build and prosper, we must make a promise to ourselves to never forget the sacrifices these individuals have made. It is their memory that will guide us in the right direction.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I rise today among my fellow colleagues to honor and pay tribute to one of Kentucky' finest individuals. Last Wednesday, at the age of 83, Randy Atcher passed away in his bed at the Audubon Hospital in Louisville, KY. He had been suffering from lung cancer for many years. He will be missed and mourned by all. Randy Atcher was born in Tip Top, KY in 1918 and from very early on, people could see that he was headed for big things. Randy grew up in a family of entertainers and musicians. His father played the fiddle, his mother the piano, his brother Bob the mandolin, his brother Raymond the bass and finally his brother Francis played the guitar. At age 13, Randy and his brother Bob were playing their catchy country tunes for WLAP radio in Louisville. Before Randy was even out of high school, he and Bob had a successful morning show on WHAS radio which aired from 8 to 8:15 Monday through Friday. He always finished the show with just enough time to beat the bell for his first class. After graduating from high school, Randy and Bob hit the road running, showcasing their musical talents all across the Commonwealth. However, this seemingly endless road adventure came to an abrupt halt when, in 1941, the Japanese maliciously and without warning bombed Pearl Harbor. Shortly thereafter, Randy joined the Army Air Corps, serving in such places as Australia, the Philippines and Okinanwa. While in the South Pacific, Randy purchased a guitar and played his tunes for his fellow soldiers, bringing a little happiness and laughter into a very dark and frightening place and time. After the war ended, Randy picked up right where he left off in 1941. He traveled around the country and worked for radio stations in places like Chicago. In 1946, Randy returned to Louisville and remained there for the rest of his days. Randy Atcher's big break came in 1950 when his old friends at WHAS came to him with an idea for a daily TV show for Kentucky's children. The show, T-Bar-V, was an instant success and was on the air from March 28, 1950 until June 26, 1970. Many Kentucky children grew up watching this show and learning from the lessons it taught. In many ways, Randy Atcher became an integral part of many Kentucky families. He taught the children to save their money and to respect their elders. His warmth and sincerity were felt by all that tuned in. Throughout its 20 years on television, T-Bar-V celebrated 153,000 children's birthdays. When the show ended, many children felt as if they had lost their best friend. Even after the show ended however, Randy couldn't keep the performer in him quiet. He sang his songs and entertained children at schools and the elderly at nursing homes. He was on the board of the Muscular Dystrophy Association and the Dream Factory, a group that grants the wishes of gravely ill children. He also recorded books on tape for the blind. I ask that my fellow colleagues join me in honoring Randy Atcher. He devoted his entire life to bringing happiness to the lives of others. He represented a code of morality that seems almost lost today. I believe we all can learn from his example of caring for and serving others.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I rise today to congratulate Kevin Dillon of Prospect, KY, for winning the top honor in a recently held national essay competition sponsored by the American Psychiatric Association. This competition was judged by Members of Congress, authors, and national health reporters. The American Psychiatric Association accepted up to five essays from each State; 14 States participated in this year's competition. This year's essay topic was ``When not to keep a secret.'' In his essay, Kevin provides his readers with a very real and very frightening scenario. The story describes a scenario in which someone is feeling down and confides in a friend that he plans to commit suicide. Kevin offers two possible endings to his essay. In the first instance, the friend reports the suicide plan to the police, who intervene and save the boy's life. In the other scenario, no one intervenes, the boy kills himself and his friend is left with an enormous amount of guilt and regret. Mr. President, Kevin Dillon, a sophomore at St. Xavier High School, deserves to be applauded for tackling such a difficult and important issue in such an elegant and stylistic manner. His story depicts the ideal situation when keeping a secret becomes a detrimental and dangerous act for all parties involved. Once again, I congratulate Kevin Dillon for this distinction and urge him to continue to take on the tough issues this Nation faces today.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I rise today to congratulate Kathleen Lemmons of Fort Thomas, KY, on being recognized as one of the Nation's top educators in 2002 Education's Unsung Heroes Awards Programs. This awards program, sponsored by ING-Northern Life Insurance Co., recognizes kindergarten through 12th grade educators nationwide for their innovative teaching techniques and creative learning projects. Ms. Lemmons, a teacher in the gifted program with Fort Thomas Independent Schools, has been specifically recognized for her project in which students constructed robots to carry out certain tasks. This learning adventure combined the principles of math, science and teamwork in an effort to demonstrate how innovative thinking and teamwork can be combined to propel the imagination further than any one individual ever thought possible. I ask that my fellow colleagues join me in thanking Kathleen Lemmons for her dedication and commitment to the education of America's future. In order for our society to continue to advance in the right direction, we must have teachers willing to challenge their students and teach them the importance of being educated.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I rise in support of S.J. Res. 46 to authorize the use of U.S. Armed Forces against Saddam Hussein's Regime in Iraq. This bipartisan resolution would enable the President to take necessary action in order to defend our Nation and our people against Iraq and any other threatening terrorist nation or organization. I believe it will pass Congress by broad bipartisan support and send a signal to the world that America stands united behind our President. This vote will be one of the most important--if not the most important--that I or any of my colleagues will ever take in Congress. Nothing is more sobering or serious than voting to send troops into battle and committing our Nation to war. As the President said the other day, war is not our first choice. In fact, it is our last choice. Having this debate and making this vote is something that none of us wants but in the end, I am afraid that we have no other choice. The case against Saddam Hussein is clear. We can no longer tolerate him and the threat that he poses not only to us, but to his neighbors, the Middle East and the entire world. To do anything else would be to repeat the mistakes of the past and to bury our heads in the sand. After September 11, we cannot afford to simply sit on our hands. Now is the time to take bold and decisive action in our own self-defense. The arguments against Saddam Hussein are compelling, and I believe the President made a convincing case when he spoke to the United Nations about Saddam's contempt for the rest of the world. Eleven years ago after he was defeated in the Gulf War, Saddam suspended hostilities and agreed to a series of commitments to help bring peace and stability to the Middle East. He has broken each of these commitments. In 1991, U.N. Security Council Resolution 688 demanded Saddam cease repression and torture of his own people. He broke that promise. Also in 1991, the Security Council passed resolutions demanding that Iraq return all prisoners from Kuwait and other lands. Saddam Hussein broke that promise also. The U.N. Security Council, through Resolution 687, demanded that Iraq renounce all involvement with terrorism and permit no terrorist organizations to operate in Iraq. Saddam not only broke that promise, but he continues to harbor terrorists, including al-Qaida leaders who fled from Afghanistan. Most importantly, after the Gulf War, Iraq promised to destroy and to stop the development of weapons of mass murder and agreed to inspections by the world community. Once again, Saddam Hussein broke that promise. In fact, U.N. officials believe Iraq has produced tons of biological and chemical agents and failed to account for more than 3 metric tons of material that could be used to produce biological weapons. In 1995, Iraq finally admitted it had a nuclear weapons program prior to the Gulf War. And up to now, Iraq continues to withhold important information about its nuclear program. We know Iraq is working on rebuilding its nuclear capability. After the Gulf War, Saddam promised to allow for a vigorous series of inspections of his military programs. But for 7 years, we watched, on almost a daily basis, as the Iraqi Government bobbed and weaved and did everything in its power to delay, stop and confuse the inspectors. Finally, in 1998, Saddam kicked the United Nations Inspectors out of Iraq altogether. Once again, he broke his promise. All in all, Iraq has failed to abide by 16 U.N. Security Council resolutions. Saddam has broken his word at every opportunity. There is an old saying: ``fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me.'' I don't see how we can let Saddam fool us again. There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that Saddam Hussein cannot be trusted. The time for inspections, diplomacy, and delay has passed. It is time for us to act. Many in Congress believe we should not use force against terrorist nations such as Iraq without approval from the United Nations or our allies. I believe this resolution takes the right approach and addresses their concerns. It says that we should do all we can to work with our friends and the United Nations to address the menace of Saddam Hussein. But it does not tie our hands and preserves our right to act in self- defense. In trying to resolve tensions with Iraq, America has gone the extra mile. And I believe that our allies and the U.N. have done so as well. We have done all that we can to ensure a peaceful resolution of disputes with Saddam. And I support Secretary Powell's continuing efforts to reach out to the security council and the rest of the world to find a way to bring peace to the Middle East without using violence. But I do not believe that in the end you can negotiate with a madman. Sooner or later, we are going to have to act, and we should pass this resolution to give the President every tool at his disposal to prevail in this struggle with evil. I know that some of my colleagues and many in the world community worry that America is acting without provocation and that we should not preemptively attack another Nation. I have to disagree with them on two grounds. First, we have already been attacked. Last September 11 was the bloodiest day in our history. We have already lost 3,000 of our friends and neighbors. Many of those involved in planning and carrying out those attacks are now living in Iraq. In fact, Saddam Hussein has openly praised their actions. We are not acting preemptively. We are reacting to an assault on our Nation and our people. Second, in the case of Saddam Hussein, he has made it clear many, many times already that he will attack us as soon as he feels he can effectively do so. His past actions against his neighbors and even his own people prove he is a man of his word. To say now that we should wait and not act first is foolhardy and naive. In the wake of September 11, we have a choice. We can either act or we can wait and react. I do not think we should sit like children on the beach and simply wait for the tide to come in and wash us away. We should act now to protect ourselves and our Nation. Some have even made the argument that attacking Saddam would destabilize the Middle East and lead to further tensions in that sensitive part of the world. But I cannot imagine a more destabilizing and threatening menace than Saddam. This is one time where that old saying ``The devil you know is better than the devil you don't'' is wrong--dead wrong. After all, under Saddam's rule, Iraq has used nerve gas and other weapons of repression to slaughter tens of thousands of its own people. It used chemical weapons over and over during its war with Iran in the 1980s. Saddam has launched ballistic missiles at four of his neighbors-- Israel, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain. He has had his followers assassinate opponents in Iraq and abroad. During the Gulf War, his regime beat and tortured Americans and used them as ``Human Shields.'' And on almost a daily basis Iraq continues to fire missiles and artillery at U.S. and coalition aircraft patrolling the no-fly zones in Northern and Southern Iraq--no-fly zones that Saddam agreed to after the Gulf War. Looking at the evidence, I cannot imagine anything more destabilizing and threatening than the status quo. Some say wait and let the U.N. pass another resolution. They argue that more inspections and towing a tougher line against Saddam will work this time. But surely Saddam is not going to adhere to the 17th resolution after ignoring the first 16. Finally, those who make the argument about preemption say we need more proof--that we can't act first without a smoking gun. Even if they ignore all of the evidence, I would still argue that the last thing we want is a smoking gun. A gun only smokes after it is fired and our goal and fight must be to prevent Saddam from firing that weapon. I have heard the arguments from the opponents of this resolution say that we should wait and deal with Saddam after the upcoming November election. They say this issue smacks of politics and that President Bush is using the war as a political tool in this next election. Some have even had harsh words for President Bush on this issue and at times I wonder who they think the real enemy is--President Bush or Saddam. I believe that politics should not be part of this debate from either party. This debate is about war and peace, not petty political squabbles. The congress should vote now and the President should act when it would be most effective to end Saddam's evil regime. I don't know if that's today, tomorrow, the day after the election, or some other time in the near future. But I will give the Commander-in-Chief and our military leaders the benefit of the doubt. What is most important is that we do this right and launch our assault when it will be most effective. The longer we wait, the more time this mad man has to hatch his evil plots. There are risks in acting. But there are more risks in not acting. In conclusion, I urge support for the resolution. The evidence is clear. And the arguments against acting do not stand up to hard-headed reality. Saddam Hussein is a deadly threat, a threat we have ignored, put off and used every excuse for not finally dealing with for too long. We cannot afford to wait anymore. After September 11, the world has changed. It is time for us to act. It is time for us to be bold. God bless this republic and our Great People. I yield the floor.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I rise today as a cosponsor of the Energy Workers Compensation Act of 2002, EWCA. During the Cold War, workers employed at the Department of Energy sites across the country served our country by helping to make nuclear weapons. But, for over 50 years of manufacturing these weapons, we now know that the Department of Energy consistently sacrificed health and safety of the workers and placed them in harm's way without their knowledge. Many of these workers subsequently became ill due to their work with radioactive and toxic substances at the sites. In 2000, Congress passed legislation, the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act, EEOICPA, to establish compensation programs for Department of Energy workers who became sick as a result of their work. The bill addressed compensation for illnesses caused by the workers' exposure to radiation, beryllium, and numerous toxic substances. EEOICPA created two separate programs: Subtitle B of the law provided a program administered by the Department of Labor that would give a lump sum $150,000 payment to workers exposed to radiation and beryllium; and, subtitle D of the law provided a program administered by the Department of Energy that relied on State worker compensation programs to make compensation payments to workers exposed to toxic substances. Subtitle D is what the EWCA legislation addresses. Currently, under subtitle D the Department of Energy uses a physician's panel to review workers' claims and determine whether a worker's illness is related to work at a Department of Energy site. Upon a positive finding, the panel relies upon individual State worker compensation programs to make payments for wage loss and medical benefits. The Department of Energy, however, has admitted that nearly half of the claimants will not be able to pinpoint a responsible payor who will be able to honor the Department of Energy Physician Panel finding because many contractors no longer are associated with DoE. Congress intended a uniform and equitable Federal compensation program for these employees who worked to serve our country. The Government should not sit idly by and let this problem fester knowing that so many claimants will not receive any compensation. Introduction of the Energy Workers Compensation Act of 2002 will fulfill the original legislative objectives of Congress to assure compensation to all of our country's energy workers who were made ill due to their work with toxic substances. The legislation would correct subtitle D by making the Department of Labor responsible for paying those sick workers who are determined eligible to receive compensation. We are only now beginning to realize the dangers that the energy workers faced. These workers thought they were serving our country and were unaware of the risks they took to win the Cold War. We must do all we can to protect the energy workers to make sure they receive just compensation for the illnesses and disabilities they incurred from their jobs at the Department of Energy nuclear weapons sites.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I rise today as a cosponsor of the Energy Workers Compensation Act of 2002, EWCA. During the Cold War, workers employed at the Department of Energy sites across the country served our country by helping to make nuclear weapons. But, for over 50 years of manufacturing these weapons, we now know that the Department of Energy consistently sacrificed health and safety of the workers and placed them in harm's way without their knowledge. Many of these workers subsequently became ill due to their work with radioactive and toxic substances at the sites. In 2000, Congress passed legislation, the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act, EEOICPA, to establish compensation programs for Department of Energy workers who became sick as a result of their work. The bill addressed compensation for illnesses caused by the workers' exposure to radiation, beryllium, and numerous toxic substances. EEOICPA created two separate programs: Subtitle B of the law provided a program administered by the Department of Labor that would give a lump sum $150,000 payment to workers exposed to radiation and beryllium; and, subtitle D of the law provided a program administered by the Department of Energy that relied on State worker compensation programs to make compensation payments to workers exposed to toxic substances. Subtitle D is what the EWCA legislation addresses. Currently, under subtitle D the Department of Energy uses a physician's panel to review workers' claims and determine whether a worker's illness is related to work at a Department of Energy site. Upon a positive finding, the panel relies upon individual State worker compensation programs to make payments for wage loss and medical benefits. The Department of Energy, however, has admitted that nearly half of the claimants will not be able to pinpoint a responsible payor who will be able to honor the Department of Energy Physician Panel finding because many contractors no longer are associated with DoE. Congress intended a uniform and equitable Federal compensation program for these employees who worked to serve our country. The Government should not sit idly by and let this problem fester knowing that so many claimants will not receive any compensation. Introduction of the Energy Workers Compensation Act of 2002 will fulfill the original legislative objectives of Congress to assure compensation to all of our country's energy workers who were made ill due to their work with toxic substances. The legislation would correct subtitle D by making the Department of Labor responsible for paying those sick workers who are determined eligible to receive compensation. We are only now beginning to realize the dangers that the energy workers faced. These workers thought they were serving our country and were unaware of the risks they took to win the Cold War. We must do all we can to protect the energy workers to make sure they receive just compensation for the illnesses and disabilities they incurred from their jobs at the Department of Energy nuclear weapons sites.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I rise today to honor and congratulate the Caldwell County High School Future Farmers of America, FFA, chapter. The Caldwell chapter has been selected as one of 10 finalists in the country for student development and will compete to be one of three top Models of Innovation at the 75th National FFA Convention in Louisville, KY. Across the Nation, FFA chapters are rated according to a star system. The Caldwell High School FFA chapter was one of only 103 FFA chapters across the entire United States to receive the highest rating of three stars. This was the first time this chapter ever achieved a three star rating. All 122 FFA students at Caldwell County High School deserve special recognition for their hard work and innovative spirit. The agricultural industry today needs and deserves folks like the ones at Caldwell County High School. I am confident that this group of young men and women will help further transform the agricultural industry and take innovation to a new level.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Madam President, for nearly 30 years now, my good friend and fellow colleague Senator Jesse Helms of North Carolina has been a stalwart of conservative thinking and values for this legislative body. He has represented the very best of what the Republican party has to offer and I would personally like to thank Senator Helms for his vigor and grit. Now more than ever, it is important that this Senate and this nation realize and appreciate the work Senator Helms has done for the people of North Carolina and the citizens of the United States of America. Throughout his tenure in the United States Senate, Senator Helms has been a true fighter, a heavy weight champion for America's values. He fought against communism throughout the entirety of the Cold War. He fought for and still fights for the protection of the American people against foreign and domestic threats. For 30 years, he has battled and fought against liberalism in an attempt to bring conservative values and ideas back to this nation and to this congress. ``Senator No,'' as he has come to be known, has developed a long list of enemies on the other side of the aisle and in certain media outlets. But let's not forget what Winston Churchill said about having enemies. ``You have enemies? Good. That means you've stood up for something, sometime in your life.'' Whether or not you have agreed with one word or action Senator Helms has said or taken in his 30 years as a Senator in the United States Congress, you have to agree with and admire his determination and strength. Once again, I thank Senator Helms for being a guiding light in a sometimes dark world.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I rise today to congratulate and honor the men and women at WKDZ FM radio in Cadiz, KY on winning the most prestigious nationwide award broadcasting has to offer. WKDZ was recently awarded a Marconi Radio Award by the National Association of Broadcasters, recognizing it as the ``Small Market Station of the Year.'' WKDZ is the only Kentucky station to ever receive a Marconi Award as Small Market Station of the Year. WKDZ did not win this award based solely on their ability to play good music or put interesting personalities on the air. Criteria used by the Marconi judges included ratings, community awards and recognition, events sponsored by the station, continuing community service broadcasts, and staff involvement in the community. Over the years, WKDZ has raised thousands upon thousands of dollars for the community. The station raised more than $150,000 during the Relay for Life, $82,000 on the Rotary Radio Auction, surpassing their goal of $75,000 and helped gather 4,000 cans for the community Thanksgiving Food Bank. WKDZ has furthermore sponsored such local events as the Community Easter Egg Hunt, Halloween Safety Night and the Trigg County Country Ham Festival. WKDZ is a shining example of how a private-owned business can on one hand be a profitable contributor to the local economy and on the other be an active and influential participant in the community. I applaud WKDZ's efforts and congratulate them on this noteworthy honor.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Will the Senator yield? Now you have switched your allegiance to a fellow who lives in your home State?