Jim Bunning

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I pay tribute to Thomas D. Clark, Kentucky's most prominent historian. On Monday, July 14, 2003, Mr. Clark celebrated his 100th birthday, Remarkably, Mr. Clark's life has spanned nearly half of Kentucky's history. Thomas Clark is an esteemed southern historian and writer, agrarian and preservationist. Having grown up on a cotton farm in Mississippi, Mr. Clark came to the State as a graduate student enrolled in the University of Kentucky in 1928. Less than 3 years later he decided to settle in Kentucky and delve into its history. In 1937, Mr. Clark's ``A History in Kentucky'' was published, and it is still considered the definitive work on Kentucky history by the State Department for Libraries and Archives. Mr. Clark was declared Kentucky's historian laureate for life in 1990, and to this day, maintains his enthusiasm and passion for Kentucky history. That he lived and experienced much of the history he wrote is testament to this man's inimitable and authoritative qualities. In addition to being Kentucky's premier historian, Mr. Clark paid the State a great service by saving part of its history. In 1936 he stopped the State librarian, who had run out of storage space, from selling truckloads of records as scrap. He then encouraged the Governor to create a State archive and established a special documents collection at the University of Kentucky's library. Mr. Clark's ardor for Kentucky and its history and his tenacity for historical preservation makes this man one of Kentucky's greatest heroes. For generations to come, Kentucky will be indebted to this man. I thank the Senate for allowing me to recognize Mr. Clark and voice his praises. He is Kentucky at its finest.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I pay tribute to one of Kentucky's finest educators. Dr. Charles L. Shearer has served as president of Transylvania University for over 20 years and he has helped shape it into the fine liberal arts institution it is today. Upon Dr. Shearer's inception as Transylvania University's president 20 years ago, he brought with him a doctorate in economics and teaching experience. Charles also spent 4 years as the university's vice president of finance where he successfully eliminated Transylvania's deficits. Although campus enrollment was low then, Dr. Shearer helped Transylvania rebound from 605 in 1983 to a record 1,109 during the fall of 2002. Achieving the highest quality of education in the classroom possible has been a top priority throughout Dr. Shearer's tenure as president. The top 25 students in each class are awarded the William T. Young Scholarship. The Bingham, Jones and Kenan programs encourage retainment and recruitment of faculty by awarding bonuses to deserving teachers. Dr. Shearer's leadership helped raise the endowment from $4.1 million in 1983 to $110 million today. While funds peaked at $129.3 million in 1998, the school has been able to make the necessary improvements and growth that have shaped Transylvania University. In the past 20 years the additions to the campus have included the Young Campus Center, the Rosenthal and Poole residence halls, the Cowgill business center, the Lucille Little Theatre, the Clive Beck Athletic and Recreation Center, the John R. Hall Field for intramurals and athletics, and the Marquard baseball field. The commitment and devotion Dr. Charles Shearer has demonstrated to Transylvania University is inspiring. Fewer than 5 percent of college or university presidents serve 20 years or more. His ability to work and grow with people has enabled Dr. Shearer to serve Transylvania University in a spectacular way. While Dr. Shearer has received numerous offers to serve at other academic institutions, he has declined in order to continue his role at Transylvania and thus has become the longest serving president in the school's 223-year history. I am thrilled Dr. Shearer has remained at Transylvania and am optimistic for the university's future. I thank the Senate for allowing me to recognize Dr. Shearer and Transylvania University. He is one of Kentucky's best at one of its finest institutions.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I pay tribute to one of Kentucky's most benevolent humanitarians. Ann Marie Pederson, a graduate student at the University of Louisville, volunteers in the English-as-a-second- language, ESL, program through Kentucky Refugee Ministries. Through this program, Anne Marie works with refugees from over 25 different nationalities and ethnic groups throughout Kentucky. Kentucky Refugee Ministries is a refugee resettlement office for the Episcopal Migration Ministries and Church World Service. The organization assists refugees legally admitted to the United States as victims of persecution for religious or political belief. Anne Marie became involved with Kentucky Refugee Ministries after volunteering with a similar program in Jordan in 2000. Anne Marie, a rhetorician and composition graduate student at the University of Louisville, also obtained a master's degree in creative writing from George Mason University. Remarkably, English is her only language. In one of her assignments, Anne Marie assisted a Bosnian family in accomplishing basic daily activities like shopping, driving, and setting up bank accounts. She also taught English conversation skills to two sisters from a Congolese refugee camp. Anne Marie is a mentor to refugee children from Kosovo, Mexico, and Jordan, serving as both a friend and a teacher. Her generosity and kindness has improved the lives of refugees in countless ways. Her patience, instruction, and friendship is an example for us all. Anne Marie Pederson is an exemplar of charity and a tribute to Kentucky. I thank the Senator for allowing me to recognize Anne Marie Pederson and voice her praises. She is Kentucky at its best.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I want to take a few moments and talk about Taiwan which has been a reliable friend and ally of the U.S. in Asia for over 50 years. After the terrorist attacks of September 11, Taiwan quickly announced its support for the allied war against terrorism. Taiwan has since supported the ally efforts to rid Iraq of Saddam Hussein and has offered humanitarian and developmental assistance in rebuilding Iraq for a free Iraqi people. For that, we certainly owe Taiwan a great deal of thanks. Taiwan has shown itself to be a democratic and freedom embracing republic even while it has undergone threats posed by the People's Republic of China, PRC. As the world focuses on continuing tensions in the Middle East and Africa, the nuclear situation in North Korea, and other threats, we must not ignore the military threat posed by the PRC to our friends in Taiwan. The United States must continue to stand with Taiwan. It is an island of freedom that must be supported. Aside from simply supporting Taiwan's democratic principles of open elections, human rights, and freedom of assembly and religious beliefs, we must also work to help them with their economy and support of markets and trade. I hope at some point the United States takes a serious and significant step in further strengthening our economic and political ties through a free trade agreement. Taiwan is the United States' eighth largest trading partner and its largest investment partner. A study produced by the U.S. International Trade Commission showed a net gain of $3.4 billion for the U.S. economy from a free trade agreement with Taiwan. And this benefits both American workers and businesses as well as those in Taiwan. It seems to be a winning situation for both Taiwan and the United States. With Taiwan's recent accession to the World Trade Organization, now is the right time to seriously consider beginning free trade negotiations with Taiwan. While some say a free trade agreement may muddle our and Taiwan's relationship with the PRC, I am hopeful such an agreement will benefit all. An agreement could bring about a moderation and softening in the PRC's stance toward Taiwan; treating Taiwan as a partner to help it modernize and foster in itself democratic reforms. Also, we need to make sure the United States stands behind Taiwan and helps put an end to the PRC's military might and strategic deployments which at times paint a real disturbing and threatening picture for Taiwan. The PRC has accelerated its military buildup and now has over 400 M-class missiles along its southeastern coast. And too many times the PRC has routinely conducted live-fire practicing around the Taiwan Strait. When the PRC conducts these exercises, it further destabilizes the region. It undermines the right of the people of Taiwan to live without intimidation and threats from the PRC. The PRC even sought to keep Taiwan from seeking assistance of the World Health Organization during the SARS outbreak, which in fact originated on mainland China and still somewhat remains a problem in Asia. We cannot stand by when the PRC provokes Taiwan. Even as we deal with pressing issues around the world, we must not lose sight of our vital interests in Taiwan. I strongly supported President Bush's approval in April of 2002 of a sale of Kidd-class destroyers, anti-submarine P-3 ``Orion'' aircraft, and diesel submarines to Taiwan. In accord with the Taiwan Relations Act, we must continue to speak out in defense of Taiwan, and use our strongest diplomacy to urge the PRC, as a responsible member of the international community, to abandon its rhetoric and provocative actions, and maintain a dialogue with democratic Taiwan. While we are so heavily engaged with the war on terrorism and involvement in Iraq, we must not lose sight of the democratic and freedom-loving Taiwan. I urge my Senate colleagues to encourage Taiwan to be strong and firm with its democratic principles, and I urge this body to make sure we stand up for and support Taiwan when she needs it the most. A strong Taiwan is not only good for her and her people, but it is a beacon of hope and encouragement for all those who have struggled and fought for democracy and the freeing of the human spirit. I thank the Senate for allowing me to raise these issues, and may God bless Taiwan--the Republic of China--richly.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I am disappointed the Senate did not vote to move to full consideration of S. 11, the Patients First Act of 2003, to address the national crisis our doctors, hospitals and those needing healthcare face today. One of the top issues we all hear about from doctors in our States is how they are being squeezed financially by skyrocketing medical liability premiums. The Senate had a real opportunity to help remedy this problem by passing the Patients First Act, but unfortunately, we didn't even get a chance to fully consider and vote on this bill. Not only is medical liability hurting doctors, but it is now starting to affect the quality and availability of care for patients. First, let me give a little background on the situation in Kentucky. I know many other States face the same situation. In March of this year, Kentucky joined 17 other States on the American Medical Association's list of ``crisis States.'' This means that the current liability system is affecting patient care. Physicians across my State are facing some hard choices trying to figure out how to pay their rising premiums. Some are choosing to close their offices or retire early. Others are packing up and moving to other States with more sensible insurance regulations. Most concerning are reports of physicians no longer delivering babies because they cannot afford the liability insurance. This leaves expectant mothers in the lurch and creates huge, frightening gaps in critical medical coverage. In Kentucky, for example, Knox County hospital has stopped delivering babies which is forcing expectant mothers to travel to neighboring counties for care. The Kentucky Medical Association conducted a survey last year on the effects of rising medical malpractice premiums. They found that 70 percent of the physicians in Kentucky saw their premiums go up. In the worst example, there was a $476,000 increase for a six-physician orthopedic office that didn't have any settlements or judgements against it. Recently, I received a letter from Catholic Healthcare Partners, a hospital system with about 30 hospitals and 8,900 affiliated physicians across the country. In Kentucky, they own several hospitals, including Lourdes Hospital in Paducah and Marcum & Wallace Memorial Hospital in Irvine. According to Catholic Healthcare Partners, the hospital system's liability insurance premiums increased by 50 percent in 2001 and 70 percent in 2002. In fact, in the past 3 years, their premiums have increased by almost $25 million. Unfortunately, Catholic Healthcare Partners is the rule instead of the exception. In May, the Joint Economic Committee published a study on the impact of medical liability litigation. The report said the total premiums for medical liability insurance more than doubled from 1991 to 2001 to reach $21 billion. Hospitals and doctors simply cannot continue keeping their doors open and treating patients if their premiums continue to rise this rapidly. For example, Appalachian Regional Healthcare is one of the largest rural health systems in the country and employs 150 physicians in its nine hospitals and other healthcare outlets. ARH provides services in both Kentucky and West Virginia, and employs most of the obstetricians and pediatricians in eastern Kentucky. In January of this year, ARH made a decision to become completely self-insured. In 2001, the hospital system's key carrier for medical liability coverage dropped the hospital, and ARH couldn't find any other affordable coverage. For 2002, the bids for coverage the hospital received were $12 million to $13 million--which was more than the hospital system's net revenue and almost triple what they had paid the year before. The hospital system is now building an insurance reserve in case there are any malpractice settlements against it. However, according to ARH representatives, they realize that even one single case could cripple the system and its physicians. There is no doubt the system is broken. And for many Kentuckians, especially in our rural areas, there is no doubt skyrocketing insurance rates are making it harder for patients to get the quality care they need. The rising premiums not only take a toll on physicians and hospitals, but it means you, me, and everyone in this country is paying more for medical care. Very simply, individuals pay more for medical care because of the increases in premiums doctors face. Although all of us are paying more, some people are making out like bandits--usually the trial attorneys. It hardly seems that you can turn on your television these days without seeing a commercial by one trial attorney or another looking for ``injured'' people. Some of these lawyers specialize in certain kinds of injuries while others aren't as picky and will take anyone involved in an accident. Most give a toll- free number, and many promise that ``we won't get paid unless you get paid.'' In a report by the Department of Health and Human Services released last year, it said the number of ``mega-verdicts is increasing rapidly,'' particularly within specialty areas of medicine. The report goes on to say lawyers have an ``interest in finding the most attractive cases'' and they have ``an incentive to gamble on a big `win.' '' Finally, the report says ``lawyers have few incentives to take on the more difficult cases or those of less attractive patients.'' Is this really the way we want our legal system to work? Are we really getting the best results with this type of legal system? The answer to both of these questions is no. It seems like I have been voting for changes to our medical liability system since I have been in Congress, but we always seem to come up a few votes short. The Patients First Act places some commonsense controls on lawsuits against doctors. This will help bring some control over the rising medical liability premiums, and doctors in my State will be able to provide healthcare services. For example, the bill places limits on noneconomic and punitive damages, but does not limit economic damages. The bill also limits the amount attorney's can collect from their clients depending on the size of the settlement. The bill requires lawsuits to be filed within 3 years of the injury, although this time limit is extended to children under the age of 6 who are injured. Finally, the bill makes defendants liable for only their share of the injury that occurred and allows periodic payment of future damages. These changes could make a big difference in the availability and cost of healthcare in the United States and Kentucky. These changes could mean physicians in Kentucky thinking about leaving the state will be able to stay, and doctors thinking about leaving the profession will be able to continue practicing. I am disappointed we did not have enough votes to proceed and fully consider the Patients First Act, however, I am hopeful we can come back and revisit this important issue soon, and give our doctors, hospitals, and especially those needing healthcare a more affordable system with better access.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I have the privilege and honor of rising today to recognize the hard work of those at the Corvette assembly plant in Bowling Green, KY, on the 50th anniversary of the Corvette. America's love for the Corvette began in 1953, when the first American sports car took over the highways. Since then, the automotive industry has never been the same. Kentucky became part of this American icon in 1981, when an old air-conditioner manufacturing plant, located in western Kentucky, was converted into an automobile assembly plant. The Bowling Green plant holds the proud honor of being the sole Corvette producer. Another state-of-the-art renovation in 1996 once again placed the Bowling Green plant on the road to excellence in preparation for production of the latest Corvettes. Each year, milestone after milestone, and award on top of award, the Bowling Green plant consistently shines. For 2 years Corvettes produced in Kentucky have captured Motor Trend Magazine's highly respected ``Car of the Year'' designation. In 1992, the Bowling Green plant produced the one-millionth Corvette. However, the secret of their success lies in the hard work and determination of the Bowling Green team. Without skillful minds and driven hands, innovative ideas and quality-built cars would never come to fruition. It is not often we have the chance to honor such a milestone. Please join me in congratulating all those who have worked at the General Motors Bowling Green assembly plant. I am pleased they are continuing the Corvette tradition with a Kentucky touch.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to three of Kentucky's finest physicians. Drs. Carol Cottrill, Tina Slusher, and Robert Salley are exemplars in the field of medicine because they spend several months of each year providing medical care to children in developing and underprivileged countries. Drs. Cottrill, Slusher, and Salley performed an implantation of a new mechanical heart valve for a young girl from the village of Eku, Nigeria. Dr. Slusher first examined Sussana Olesenekwu in a 168-bed Baptist hospital near her village in Nigeria. Upon realizing the gravity of Olesenekwu's heart condition, Dr. Slusher worked with urgency to find a U.S. hospital and surgeon willing to do the surgery quickly and for free. Dr. Cottrill, a children's heart specialist, and Dr. Salley, a heart surgeon, joined Dr. Slusher in donating their time and skill to perform a surgery largely unavailable in Nigeria. Dr. Cottrill is even allowing Olesenekwu to recover in her home. Aided by Medtronic, which contributed the mechanical heart valve, and St. Joseph's Hospital, which incurred the remaining costs, these exceptional doctors saved Olesenekwu's life. Open-heart surgery is almost nonexistent in Nigeria. Though the country has a population of approximately 130 million, it has just one facility that performs only a few surgeries each year. In Nigeria the surgery would cost $3,000 to $4,000, and most families earn less than $10.00 a week. Drs. Cottrill, Slusher, and Salley's altruistic and selfless donations of time and skill are unparalleled. Drs. Cottrill and Salley both live and practice in Lexington, KY, and Dr. Slusher is a native of Bell County, KY. Their commitment to improving the lives of those less fortunate are an inspiration to many. Their contributions have truly made the world a better place. Drs. Cottrill, Slusher, and Salley are tributes to Kentucky. They are Kentucky at its finest. I thank the Senate for allowing me to recognize Dr. Carol Cottrill, Dr. Tina Slusher, and Dr. Robert Salley and voice their praises.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I pay tribute to one of Kentucky's finest citizens. On July 29, 2003, Margaret Seals of Winchester, will be inducted into the Kentucky Civil Rights Hall of Fame for the significant contributions she has made to the Commonwealth of Kentucky in the areas of civil and human rights. After decades of putting the interests of others above her own, Margaret has distinguished herself as a leader. Upon attending the Lafayette Vocational School, where she developed the skills necessary to succeed, Margaret remained determined to remain a member of the workforce in order to provide for her two children. In Lexington, Margaret was the first African-American to be employed by the Social Security Administration in 1964. While she served in a number of occupational fields, some of her notable accomplishments include her service to the Winchester Board of Commissioners and the Winchester Municipal Utilities Commission. Margaret has participated in a wide range of other public service projects including the Generations Center Board, the Urban Renewal Development Board, and the Winchester Solid Waste Committee. Her span of contributions also include the Clark County United Way Distribution Committee where she served since 1995, the same year she graduated Leadership Winchester. Margaret also remains an active member of the Elk Club. For her outstanding efforts, Reverend E. Baker, Sr., a retired pastor of the Broadway Baptist Church and an inductee into the Kentucky Civil Rights Hall of Fame nominated Margaret to receive this distinguished honor. Margaret's commitment to education, hard work, family and community are an inspiration to many. Her contributions have made a difference in the lives of many and have paved a path for generations to come. Margaret's example should be emulated throughout Kentucky and across our Nation. I thank the Senate for allowing me to recognize Margaret Seals and voice her praises. She is Kentucky at its finest.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. I am hopeful that once this bill gets to conference, we and our staffs can work out our differences on this adult day care issue and find a solution that is amenable to all of us. It is also my understanding the current version of the House of Representative's prescription drug benefit bill includes the adult day care language which is identical to my language.

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, during consideration of S. 1, an amendment was introduced by Senators Santorum and Schumer dealing with payments to the Medicare+Choice program. This amendment would have increased payments to the M+C plans over the next 2 years, to make sure they are still viable when the MedicareAdvantage program takes effect in 2006. I realize the amendment was withdrawn because of the lack of funding in the Senate bill, but it is still an important issue I would like to lend my support to. The Medicare+Choice program already provides a good prescription drug benefit to many seniors across the county, and gives these seniors another option to the Medicare fee-for-service program. Unfortunately, many Medicare+Choice plans are pulling out of the program because their reimbursement levels are too low. This is leaving many seniors scrambling for a new Medicare+Choice plan or having to go back into fee-for-service Medicare which doesn't offer them the same types of benefits as their old M+C plan. In fact, it seems like every year, more and more Medicare+Choice plans leave the market. I am concerned if we do not provide these plans with enough funding over the next two years while the MedicareAdvantage program is being implemented, these M+C plans will continue to leave the program and more seniors will be left in the lurch. This isn't fair to our seniors. I had hoped we could provide some additional funding for the Medicare+Choice plans over the next 2 years so the plans currently in the program will remain and we might actually attract new plans to other areas that have not been served. In Kentucky, we have a limited number of Medicare+Choice plans. In fact, only seniors in certain counties in Northern Kentucky and around Louisville have access to these plans. With higher payments to Medicare+Choice plans, we might actually get some more plans to come into our state and cover more counties. We shouldn't give up on the Medicare+Choice plans, or the seniors enrolled in them. I hope this is an issue we can resolve during the conference with the House, and I commend Senators Santorum and Schumer for bringing this issue before the Senate.

Mr. BUNNING. While Senator Santorum's adult day care proposal and my adult day care language are different, they both share the same goal of providing services to those special and needy adults who require extra attention and care. However, I have some differences with Senator Santorum's proposal, and he has some differences with my proposed language.

Mr. BUNNING. Thank you, Mr. Chairman and Senator Santorum. I appreciate both your willingness to revisit this matter and your leadership on this important legislation for our seniors. fee for service

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, during consideration of this bill in the Finance Committee, I submitted language regarding adult day care which I and my staff were told by Finance Committee staff was acceptable and included in S. 1, the Prescription Drug and Medicare Improvement Act of 2003, as part of the base bill to be considered on the Senate floor. I was very thankful for your consideration and approval of my language, Chairman Grassley.

Mr. BUNNING. After we voted to pass S. 1 out of the Finance Committee, I have since learned that the adult day care language accepted and made part of the bill is not the language I submitted at all, but instead it is language based on a bill introduced by Senator Santorum related to the same issue.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to Mr. Stephen Cabell of Owensboro, KY. Earlier this year, Stephen was named a Presidential Scholar in the Arts. The Presidential Scholars in the Arts Program is administered by the U.S. Department of Education to honor some of our Nation's most artistic and creative high school seniors. Each year, the National Foundation for Advancement in the Arts recommends a small number of exceptionally gifted students to this program. This year, only 16 students from across the country were named a Presidential Scholar in the Arts. This honor rewards individuals who excel in various disciplines of the arts, including music, theater, dance, and visual arts. Stephen was awarded this honor in recognition of his musical composition genius. Stephen Cabell was born in Owensboro, KY. During his freshman year of high school he was accepted into the Interlochen Arts Academy in Michigan, a prestigious high school known for its contribution to the fine arts. While attending Interlochen, he studied horn, piano, and music composition. Stephen continues his love of music during his free time, when he tutors students in music theory, researches composers, and collects musical scores. He is the son of Steve and Mary Cabell of Owensboro, who I know are very proud of Stephen and his talent and commitment to music and perfection. Since he was 8 years old, Stephen has been composing musical pieces. During his career he has won numerous awards. Stephen is a recipient of the Morton Gould Young Composers Award from the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers, ASCAP, as well as the Neil Robert Memorial Scholarship from the Interlochen Arts Academy. Groups such as the Owensboro Symphony Orchestra, Imani Winds, and the Interlochen Academy regularly perform his music. Most recently, Stephen performed one of his pieces at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in an event designed to showcase the talents of all 16 Presidential Scholars. In the fall, Stephen plans to study composition at the Curtis Institute of Music. Stephen Cabell has repeatedly proven his genius in the field of musical composition. I would like to congratulate him again on being named a Presidential Scholar in the Arts, a tremendous honor indeed. I thank the Senate for allowing me to recognize Stephen and his accomplishments. He is a true source of pride for Kentucky.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to Ms. Rebecca Williams of Henderson, KY. Rebecca was recently awarded a James Madison Memorial fellowship. The James Madison fellowship, in its 12th year of competition, supports the further study of American history by college graduates who aspire to become teachers of American history, American government, and social studies in the Nation's secondary schools. Named in honor of the fourth President of the United States, the fellowship will fund up to $24,000 of Ms. William's course of study toward a master's degree. The award recognizes promising and distinguished teachers and encourages the strengthening of their knowledge of the origins and development of American government and history. Ultimately, the award acknowledges educators who will provide outstanding tutelage to students across the country. Ms. Williams is a teacher at Bryan Station High School in Lexington, KY. She is one of 56 recipients of the fellowship, selected from applicants from across the United States. Ms. Williams has distinguished herself as an exceptional and aspiring educator. Her dedication to the field of American history and to the education of Kentucky's youth is remarkable. Ms. Williams is a tribute to Kentucky, and I am proud of her achievements. I thank the Senate for allowing me to recognize Ms. Williams's wonderful accomplishments. She is Kentucky at its finest.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I rise to honor and pay tribute to the McCracken County Education Association for the high ideals which they have taught through example to the children of their county school system. The McCracken County Education Association of McCracken County, KY, generously took the initiative not only to raise $10,089 and donate it to Habitat for Humanity but also to give their time and effort in the construction of a home in Paducah. The initiative involved all 12 of McCracken County's public schools and the children that attend them. Each teacher was asked to raise $35 from their own classroom while the central office and each school contributed $350. The ways in which the money was raised are just as admirable for their originality and civic mindedness as they are for their charity. One teacher added a brick to a miniature house structure for every dollar her students contributed, while one school of only 350 students held a bake sale and raised approximately $5,000. Overall and throughout, the raising of funds was marked with a spirit of cooperation and team spirit. On June 6 the funds were presented to Habitat for Humanity of Paducah/McCracken County and on the 14th the teachers, administrators, and staff of McCracken County Education Association assembled at 1920 Broad St. in Paducah, KY, to donate time and labor in the construction of a house. The altruism and generosity of the McCracken County Education Association ought to be highly commended and imitated by all who have seen its shining example. Such interest in the well-being of our neighbors combines the virtues of justice and compassion and enriches the society in which it exists. While it is true that the McCracken County Education Association's concern for their neighbors and for a society in which all have shelter is truly virtuous, it is also true that the work they did was just as, if not more, valuable for the reason that they are the educators of America's future. The children whom the McCracken County Education Association included in this fundraiser event learned more than just what books might have taught them in school. They learned that an active interest in the well-being of others is important. They learned that though they are children who are still in the process of learning, their voices will be heard if they work together with order and with the good of society at heart. It is not only these children who stand to learn something from this notable example of generosity and civic responsibility but all of us here today. My Senate colleagues and all others would do well to imitate the concern and initiative of the McCracken County Education Association. I thank the Senate for allowing me to laud the praises of the McCracken County Education Association.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Reserving the right to object, could we at least understand what the modification is.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to Mrs. Beverly Richardson of Hancock County, KY, for her legacy of service to others. Her contributions to our Commonwealth as director of the Hancock County Career Center have made all the difference in the lives of countless Kentuckians. In 1997, when the Hancock County Career Center was initially established, Beverly Richardson, who is a proud Western Kentucky University graduate, took on the role as director, enabling her the opportunity to shape the lives of many unemployed individuals who are now working. Throughout her tenure as director, she has improved the lives of a variety of people from high school dropouts seeking to earn a general education degree, to unemployed workers in need of greater job skills to increase their competitiveness in the job market. The values and beliefs Beverly brought to the Hancock County Career Center aided her in facing the challenges she met and the opportunities each day brought as a coordinator of the center's activities. While assisting Kentucky residents in gaining more job skills and greater confidence was a wonderful accomplishment in her life, no achievement was more notable than that of raising her four children with her husband Wendell. Together, they raised four college graduates who have paved career paths of their own and given her and Wendell many grandchildren. Beverly Richardson's devotion to education and job training has improved the vitality of Kentucky's economy, enhanced the capabilities of so many workers, and strengthened the character of individuals and families. Employers and employees alike throughout Kentucky owe her a debt of gratitude. Her example should be emulated across America. I thank the Senate for allowing me to recognize Ruth and voice her praises. She is Kentucky at its finest.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Madam President, I have the privilege and honor of rising today to recognize Mr. Donovan Riley Clarkson of Paducah, KY. Donovan was recently recognized for his accomplishments in dance. This 10-year-old gentleman copes daily with the effects of central auditory processing disorder. In a person who suffers from this disorder, information is not correctly processed from the ear to the brain. This makes daily activities, from hearing conversations to hand- eye coordination, difficult to complete. Nevertheless, Donovan has not allowed this disorder to interfere with his dreams and accomplishments. Donovan performs with a dance troupe at the Beverly Rogers Dance Academy. His family enrolled him in dance four years ago after a medical professional suggested that the movement could help his condition. Everyday after school, Donovan practices the assigned dance routine. He must practice twice as hard as his teammates in order to execute these moves. This dedication paid off; he earned a spot on a local dance troupe. In fact, Donovan is the youngest member of this group. His big smile and smooth dance moves helped the group place first in many regional competitions and earn an almost perfect score, securing the troupe a spot in the national Odyssey Dance Competition held in Lakeside, FL. Currently, Donovan attends the fourth grade at Reidland Elementary School in Paducah. His favorite subject is reading, which other individuals with his condition find difficult. In his free time, Donovan enjoys constructing toy models and Lego figures. However, spending time with his brother and sister is always on the top of his list. What sets Donovan apart from other children is not his disorder or his remarkable dance skills, but his determination. He has overcome every single obstacle placed before him, making his life a testament to hard work. Please join me in congratulating Mr. Donovan Riley Clarkson and wishing him the best of luck.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded.

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I rise in support of S. 1, the Prescription Drug and Medicare Improvement Act of 2003. Last week, the Finance Committee took a historical step by passing the Medicare bill out of the committee by a strong bipartisan vote of 16 to 5, thanks to the great leadership of Senators Grassley and Baucus. This is one of the most important bills we will consider this Congress. As a new member of the Finance Committee, I was proud to support it. It is a commonsense bill that strengthens and improves the Medicare Program by guaranteeing a prescription drug benefit for America's seniors. I hope the bipartisanship momentum that was created within the Finance Committee will continue during the Senate floor debate. Talk is cheap. Congress has been talking about passing a drug bill for years. Now we have a golden opportunity and we must seize it. Our seniors have waited too long. It would be irresponsible to leave them hanging any longer. Under the budget that we passed, we have set aside $400 billion for a Medicare prescription drug benefit. This is a real commitment by Congress to the 40 million Americans who have relied on Medicare, many of them literally all their lives. It has been almost four decades since Medicare was created, and it is long past time for Congress to strengthen it and to help bring it into the 21st century. In 1965, when Medicare became law, prescription drug coverage was not included in the benefit package. Back then, it did not make any sense. Prescription drugs played a much smaller role in medical care. But because of technology and advances in health care, and much research that has been done since then, these drugs now do so much more in helping to ensure the good health of America's seniors. These medicines help seniors live longer. They help them live more active and fulfilling lives. Medicine has changed in a way no one could have predicted back in 1965. However, Congress has failed so far to strengthen Medicare and to recognize these advances and to account for the changes in health care. We now have a chance to make up for that lost ground. If we are going to maintain a decent Medicare Program for seniors and fulfill our promises to them, we owe it to them to do the best we can to make sure Medicare fully recognizes their needs and the advances in modern medicine. We have all heard of the amazing advances in prescription drugs, but for many seniors these new lifesaving drugs are unaffordable. Under the bill before us today, many more of these drugs will be within reach of all seniors. This is a good bill for them, and it is a good bill for America. Part of this legislation deserves special mention. First, the bill gives seniors a new option when it comes to getting their health care. Now under Medicare, most seniors are enrolled in traditional fee-for- service plans. That is understandable. It is what they know and it is what they are comfortable with. About 12 percent of seniors are currently enrolled in Medicare+Choice plans. These are managed care plans like HMOs. Under this legislation, seniors will have another new option: Preferred provider organizations, or PPOs, for their health care. Outside of Medicare, many Americans have found PPOs to be a solid alternative instead of fee for service or HMOs that some patients find to be too restrictive. Wisely, the bill includes incentives to make sure that PPOs will cover both rural and urban areas, and all seniors in these areas will be eligible to enroll. Coming from a small, rural State such as Kentucky this is especially important to me. In many rural parts of my State, seniors do not have a choice because the economics just do not work. But the chairman of the Finance Committee wisely crafted this bill to provide incentives to ensure that seniors in rural America have choices, too. If it is good for Iowa, I think it is going to be good for Kentucky. This bill does not require seniors to move into a PPO or an HMO for a better drug benefit. This idea has been part of other plans on Capitol Hill, and I disagree with it. Instead, under this bill seniors can receive an equal drug benefit under traditional Medicare. We give seniors the choice. It is voluntary. I know many seniors, especially our older or maybe our oldest seniors, will not want to switch out of traditional fee for service. They should not be forced to do this. My mother-in-law is very happy with what she has, and I am sure she will not change no matter what. That is fine. After promising her she would always get the care she is now receiving, it would be wrong for us to pull the rug out from under her or anybody like her. In order to be fair to all, this legislation says the drug benefits will be equal in both traditional Medicare and managed care plans, so seniors will not be penalized for staying with traditional Medicare Programs they know and are comfortable with. Another positive about the bill's benefits is the fact that seniors will have more of a choice to find a drug plan that best suits their needs. This is very similar to what Federal employees do when they choose their health care plans. For example, the benefit structure for plans can differ slightly and the formularies for the plans will likely be a little different one from another. It is this flexibility and choice for seniors which really helps make this bill a winner. I am also pleased the legislation provides a strong benefit to seniors who have the hardest time affording drug coverage, those who have incomes below 160 percent of the poverty level. All along I have argued that rich people such as Warren Buffett and Bill Gates do not need our help. We need to first focus on helping seniors who need it most and can afford it least. I am very pleased this bill does just that. At 160 percent of poverty, an individual's annual income is $14,368 for a single person, and for a couple annual income is $19,392. Many seniors in this category and certainly those who live on less struggle every day to pay for their medicines. Some have to actually choose between food and medicine. Some skip taking doses of their medicine. These are choices that no none in the year 2003 should have to make. For the 3 million seniors who make even less, the bill provides them with an even more generous benefit. These are our seniors for whom Congress has the largest responsibility. This bill certainly does right by them. Finally, I am pleased the legislation provides immediate help right now to many low-income seniors. In the year 2004 they will receive $600 a year so they can better afford their prescriptions. This is an immediate benefit for those who need help the most and will help bridge the gap until 2006 when this new drug program is fully up and running. Congress has a golden opportunity to pass a good prescription drug bill. We absolutely cannot let it slip through our fingers. Too many seniors struggle daily to pay for their prescriptions. In the past, Presidents and Congresses have promised too much, too many times, for older Americans. It is standup time. It is time to deliver. It is time to get the job done. Our seniors deserve it. America deserves it. I yield the floor and suggest the absence of a quorum.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I honor and pay tribute to one of our Nation's most courageous and admirable heroes. MSG Anthony Pryor, stationed at Fort Campbell, KY, was awarded the Silver Star for his role in a deadly battle in Afghanistan last year. The Silver Star is the third highest military honor, given for valor and gallantry in combat. The inimitable leadership and bravery of MSG Pryor deserves commendation of the highest regard. On January 25, 2002, MSG Pryor and four other soldiers of the 5th Special Forces Group were deployed north of Kandahar for a night mission. While al-Qaida and Taliban fighters slept, they were assigned to take over an old schoolhouse building serving as an enemy compound. The mission turned deadly when the enemies awoke and began to shoot, compelling MSG Pryor and his team to return fire. During the battle MSG Pryor was hit in the shoulder and fell to the ground, losing his night vision goggles. In the hand-to-hand combat that ensued in the dark, MSG Pryor managed to kill his attacker. A total of 21 Taliban and al-Qaida soldiers were killed, and one was detained. Most importantly, none of the Special Forces soldiers were killed. In a ceremony delayed for over a year because of his deployment to Iraq, MSG Pryor exhibited unparalleled humility. Throughout the battle his concern was primarily for the welfare of his fellow soldiers, and this sentiment is echoed in MSG Pryor's insistence that the Silver Star award be a reflection of the deeds of the entire company. MSG Anthony Pryor is a paragon of honor, bravery, and valor. His remarkable service to this country should be admired by all Americans. He is a tribute to the U.S. Army and Fort Campbell. I thank the Senate for allowing me to recognize MSG Pryor and extol his praises.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I honor and pay tribute to one of Kentucky's finer athletes. Greg Buckner, a Hopkinsville native, was inducted into the Kentucky All-Star Hall of Fame for his distinguished accomplishments as a basketball player throughout his high school, college, and professional careers. As a member of the University Heights Academy basketball team from 1991-1994, Greg led the Blazers to numerous victories including their first State basketball title in 1992 and a game winning record of 30-6 his senior year. At the completion of Greg's high school career, he participated in the Kentucky-Indiana High School All-Star Game. Greg distinguished himself in this contest relieving the Kentucky team of a 54-39 halftime deficit during the first of two games. Unfortunately, Kentucky lost that first game but would redeem itself later during the second game held in Indianapolis. Greg not only relieved Kentucky of a 16 point halftime deficit but made a jump shot with 6.5 seconds remaining to win the game, 75-73. The experience of the Kentucky-Indiana High School All-Star game would benefit Greg Buckner for many years to come. Greg embraced the high demands inherent of the all-star game demonstrating the mental and physical abilities necessary to achieve success at the college and professional levels of basketball. It was no surprise that Greg's leadership benefitted Clemson during his college career culminating with a trip to the Elite Eight during the 1998 NCAA Tournament. Upon being drafted by the Dallas Mavericks, Greg established himself as a strong defensive player and valuable rebounder. He is now a member of the Philadelphia 76ers. I am proud of Greg Buckner for his dedication and achievements on and off the court. His example of devotion, teamwork and leadership should be emulated by athletes throughout Kentucky and across America. I thank the Senate for allowing me to recognize Greg and voice his praises.

Mr. BUNNING

Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I rise today, along with Senator Boxer, to offer the Arming Cargo Pilots Against Terrorism Act as an amendment to this bill. This amendment closes a loophole to better protect our homeland against terrorists. As a result of the airplane hijackings on September 11, 2001, Congress took the appropriate action to prevent the use of airliners being used as missiles. Last year, large majorities of the Senate and House of Representatives voted to arm both cargo and passenger pilots who voluntarily went for stringent training as part of a program of homeland security which was in the Homeland Security bill. Arming these pilots served to protect the pilots and crew, passengers, and those on the ground from ever being victims of another airline hijacking. It was the right thing to do. However, during conference of the Homeland Security bill, the cargo pilots were yanked out of the bill. This amendment will return them and close the loophole created when they were left out last year. This provision enjoys broad support and has already passed the Senate as part of the Air Cargo Security Act earlier this year. Obviously, I would not be offering it had not the bill gotten tied up in conference and we need another vehicle to get it back to the House, so that is the reason we are offering it on this bill. Not too many people realize that cargo space is usually not secured as well as passenger space. There are no air marshals, there are no passengers to help protect against terrorists, and there are sometimes invasions of privacy on these planes. In fact, someone from North Dakota actually broke the security and entered an aircraft. Thank God she was found out before the aircraft took off. We would like this to be added to this bill so we can get it back to the House and a new conference. The whole area of cargo aircraft is not secured by the TSA and many other people who secure passenger terminals or commercial flights. I hope we can agree and get this bill over to the House. I hope the rest of my colleagues here in the Senate will support this amendment. Mr. President, I ask for a voice vote.