Ben Campbell

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I announce that the Committee on Indian Affairs will meet on Thursday, July 22, 2004, at 10 a.m. in Room 485 of the Russell Senate Office Building to conduct a business meeting on pending Committee matters, to be followed immediately by an oversight hearing on pending legislation to reauthorize the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. Those wishing additional information may contact the Indian Affairs Committee at 224-2251.

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I announce that the Committee on Indian Affairs will meet on Wednesday, July 21, 2004, at 10 a.m. in Room 485 of the Russell Senate Office Building to conduct a business meeting on pending Committee matters, to be followed immediately by a hearing on S. 519, the Native American Capital Formation and Economic Development Act of 2003. Those wishing additional information may contact the Indian Affairs Committee at 224-2251. committee on indian affairs

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I announce that the Committee on Indian Affairs will meet on Tuesday, July 20, 2004, at 10 a.m. in Room 485 of the Russell Senate Office Building to conduct a hearing on S. 2605, the Snake River, Nez Perce, Water Rights Act of 2004. Those wishing additional information may contact the Indian Affairs Committee at 224-2251. committee on indian affairs

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, it is my pleasure and distinct honor to introduce, on behalf of myself and 31 other Senators, a joint resolution commemorating the opening of the National Museum of the American Indian. This Museum was many years in the making. It's been 15 years since the bill authorizing the construction of the museum was signed into law, and that was only the beginning of a long, difficult path. There are many people who deserve praise and gratitude for their unstinting efforts in realizing this dream--far too many for me to name them all here. I would, however, like to honor two people in particular for their dedication and perseverance in seeing this task through to completion: my friend, colleague and vice chairman of the Committee on Indian Affairs, Daniel K. Inouye; and, Rick West, director of the National Museum of the American Indian, and my Southern Cheyenne brother. I consider myself fortunate that I was there at the beginning, serving in the House of Representatives when the museum was authorized, and I will be there on September 21, 2004, when the National Museum of the American Indian first opens its doors to the public. I consider the American people fortunate in that they now possess a remarkable resource for learning learning about Indian cultures and civilizations. I also consider American Indians fortunate that, finally, there is a national facility dedicated to and worthy of their cultures. History has not always been kind to Native Americans, neither the events that occurred nor the words recorded about them, and the United States has not always accorded honor where honor was due the Indians. The National Museum of the American Indian is an important step in rectifying this omission and continuing the reconciliation between a great nation and its first peoples. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the joint resolution be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, it is my pleasure and distinct honor to introduce, on behalf of myself and 31 other Senators, a joint resolution commemorating the opening of the National Museum of the American Indian. This Museum was many years in the making. It's been 15 years since the bill authorizing the construction of the museum was signed into law, and that was only the beginning of a long, difficult path. There are many people who deserve praise and gratitude for their unstinting efforts in realizing this dream--far too many for me to name them all here. I would, however, like to honor two people in particular for their dedication and perseverance in seeing this task through to completion: my friend, colleague and vice chairman of the Committee on Indian Affairs, Daniel K. Inouye; and, Rick West, director of the National Museum of the American Indian, and my Southern Cheyenne brother. I consider myself fortunate that I was there at the beginning, serving in the House of Representatives when the museum was authorized, and I will be there on September 21, 2004, when the National Museum of the American Indian first opens its doors to the public. I consider the American people fortunate in that they now possess a remarkable resource for learning learning about Indian cultures and civilizations. I also consider American Indians fortunate that, finally, there is a national facility dedicated to and worthy of their cultures. History has not always been kind to Native Americans, neither the events that occurred nor the words recorded about them, and the United States has not always accorded honor where honor was due the Indians. The National Museum of the American Indian is an important step in rectifying this omission and continuing the reconciliation between a great nation and its first peoples. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the joint resolution be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, for nearly 4 years the case of murdered Ukrainian investigative journalist Heorhiy Gongadze has gone unsolved, despite repeated calls by the Helsinki Commission, the State Department, and the international community for a fair and impartial investigation into this case. As cochairman of the Helsinki Commission, I have met with Gongadze's widow and their young twin daughters. Besides the human tragedy of the case, the Gongadze murder is a case study of the Ukrainian authority's utter contempt for the rule of law. Gongadze, who was editor of the Ukrainian Internet news publication Ukrainska Pravda, which was critical of high-level corruption in Ukraine, disappeared in September 2000. His headless body was found in November of that year. That same month, audio recordings by a former member of the presidential security services surfaced that included excerpts of earlier conversations between Ukrainian President Kuchma and other senior officials discussing the desirability of Gongadze's elimination. Earlier this week, Ukraine's Prosecutor General's office announced that Ihor Honcharov, a high-ranking police officer who claimed to have information on how Ministry of Internal Affairs officials carried out orders to abduct Gongadze, died of ``spinal trauma'' while in police custody last year. This came on the heels of an article in the British newspaper, The Independent, which obtained leaked confidential documents from Ukraine indicating repeated obstruction into the Gongadze case at the highest levels. Furthermore, just yesterday, Ukraine's Prosecutor General announced that investigators are questioning a suspect who has allegedly admitted to killing Gongadze. Many close observers of the Ukrainian authorities' mishandling, obfuscation and evasiveness surrounding this case from the outset are suspicious with respect to this announcement. Just one of numerous examples of the Ukrainian authorities' obstruction of the case was the blocking of FBI experts from examining evidence gathered during the initial investigation in April 2002, after the Bureau had been invited by these authorities to advise and assist in the case and earlier had helped in identifying Gongadze's remains. The Ukrainian parliament's committee investigating the murder has recommended criminal proceedings against President Kuchma. This committee's work has been thwarted at every turn over the course of the last several years by the top-ranking Ukrainian authorities. A serious and credible investigation of this case is long overdue-- one which brings to justice not only the perpetrators of this crime, but all those complicit in Gongadze's disappearance and murder, including President Kuchma. Ukraine faces critically important presidential elections this October. Last month, I introduced a bipartisan resolution urging the Ukrainian Government to ensure a democratic, transparent and fair election process. Unfortunately, there have been serious problems in Ukraine's pre-election environment. Ukraine can do much to demonstrate its commitment to democracy and the rule of law by conducting free and fair elections and fully and honestly investigating those who were behind the murder of Heorhiy Gongadze. The Ukrainian people deserve no less.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I am pleased to be joined by my colleagues Senators Johnson, Bunning, Chambliss, Lindsey Graham, Burns, and Lincoln to submit legislation which would express the Sense of the Senate that physicians inform prostate cancer patients of all of their treatment options. The non-binding resolution which we are introducing stresses the importance of presenting all options to men diagnosed with prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death of men in this country and is particularly devastating for men over the age of 50. In 2004, it is estimated that approximately 230,000 new cases of prostate cancer will be diagnosed in the United States, and nearly 30,000 men will die from the disease. Clearly, the effort to raise public understanding about treatment options is crucial. I believe that patients should be provided with accessible and comprehensive information about all available treatment options in an effort to enable them to select the therapy most appropriate for their unique conditions. Understanding both the cure rates and the quality of life implications of each approach is essential in making an educated decision. Last week an identical resolution passed the House by a vote of 377- 3. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation. Let's take an important step forward in the fight against prostate cancer.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I would like to announce that the Committee on Indian Affairs will meet on Wednesday, June 23, 2004, at 10 a.m. in Room 485 of the Russell Senate Office Building to conduct a business meeting on pending committee matters, to be followed immediately by an oversight hearing on Indian Tribal Detention Facilities.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I would like to announce that the Committee on Indian Affairs will meet on Wednesday, July 14, 2004, at 10 a.m. in Room 485 of the Russell Senate Office Building to conduct an oversight hearing on the American Indian Religious Freedom Act. Those wishing additional information may contact the Indian Affairs Committee at 224-2251.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I am proud to be joined by 5 of my colleagues in submitting a resolution declaring the week of September 19, 2004, as Yellow Ribbon Suicide Awareness and Prevention Week dedicated to raising awareness about suicide and suicide prevention programs. Suicide is a national tragedy that impacts the lives of millions of American families. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide is the eleventh leading cause of all deaths in America, and the third such cause of death for young folks ages 10 to 24. And, unfortunately, Colorado has one of the highest suicide rates in the Nation. Research shows that 95 percent of all suicides are preventable, and at the local, State, and Federal level, suicide prevention programs are becoming an important priority. On the Federal level, for example, the Department of Health and Human Services recently developed the National Strategy for Suicide Prevention. One suicide prevention program, that has saved more than 2,500 lives is the Yellow Ribbon Suicide Prevention Program, founded in 1994 by Coloradans Dale and Dar Emme after their son, Mike, tragically took his own life. The program encourages youngsters, parents, and teachers to talk about suicide and emphasizes the use of a ``link'' card which young folks can carry with them and give to a friend, parent, or teacher if they are in need of assistance. With local programs throughout the United States and programs in 47 countries, the Yellow Ribbon Suicide Prevention Program is used by crisis centers, schools, churches, and youth centers. And, the Yellow Ribbon Suicide Prevention Program has the endorsement of various State health departments and various State education departments and the American Osteopathic Association. And, the yellow ribbon has become the international symbol for suicide prevention and awareness. I believe that community-based efforts and programs like the Yellow Ribbon Suicide Prevention Program, as well as attentive parents, teachers, and friends can make all the difference to someone who is desperate but does not know how to ask for help or where to turn. Let's work together to make suicide prevention a national priority.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I am pleased to introduce legislation to update and improve the Tribally Controlled Colleges or University Assistance Act and amend the Indian sections of the Higher Education Act. Indian tribal colleges were first created about 30 years ago in response to the higher education needs of Native populations living in remote and isolated areas of the country where access to higher education is extremely difficult. There are 33 tribally- or Federally-chartered Indian colleges in the Nation and they do a superb job despite the many obstacles they face. In recent years the cost of higher education has far exceeded the rate of inflation. Tribal colleges face other problems as well: a growing population and growing demand for services; increased demand for additional facilities; geographical isolation; and difficulty attracting quality professors to teach. Tribal colleges not only provide a quality higher education but also enhance the cultural knowledge, knowledge depositories, college preparatory work, and other important educational needs of Indian communities. Tribal colleges also enhance the economies of tribes. The national unemployment rate in the U.S. today is about 5.6 percent, while the rate for Native Americans is many times that and in some parts of Indian country hovers above 50 percent. Tribal colleges serve as centers for business incubation and small business development in order to encourage private business development and job creation. Tribal colleges are also being called on to help Indian communities in the often-difficult transition from welfare to work. These institutions also provide education and training to people ready to join the workforce. To continue the vital work of these colleges, the bill I am introducing will provide additional resources and means to develop facilities, increase quality faculty and improve the overall education of Indian people within their reservations. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this important bill. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I am pleased to introduce legislation to update and improve the Tribally Controlled Colleges or University Assistance Act and amend the Indian sections of the Higher Education Act. Indian tribal colleges were first created about 30 years ago in response to the higher education needs of Native populations living in remote and isolated areas of the country where access to higher education is extremely difficult. There are 33 tribally- or Federally-chartered Indian colleges in the Nation and they do a superb job despite the many obstacles they face. In recent years the cost of higher education has far exceeded the rate of inflation. Tribal colleges face other problems as well: a growing population and growing demand for services; increased demand for additional facilities; geographical isolation; and difficulty attracting quality professors to teach. Tribal colleges not only provide a quality higher education but also enhance the cultural knowledge, knowledge depositories, college preparatory work, and other important educational needs of Indian communities. Tribal colleges also enhance the economies of tribes. The national unemployment rate in the U.S. today is about 5.6 percent, while the rate for Native Americans is many times that and in some parts of Indian country hovers above 50 percent. Tribal colleges serve as centers for business incubation and small business development in order to encourage private business development and job creation. Tribal colleges are also being called on to help Indian communities in the often-difficult transition from welfare to work. These institutions also provide education and training to people ready to join the workforce. To continue the vital work of these colleges, the bill I am introducing will provide additional resources and means to develop facilities, increase quality faculty and improve the overall education of Indian people within their reservations. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this important bill. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I wish today to pay tribute to a great American, patriot, Naval Officer, and fellow Coloradoan, Vice Admiral Michael Cowan. This summer, Admiral Cowan will retire from the United States Navy after 32 years of distinguished leadership, selfless service, and tireless commitment to our Navy and Nation. Admiral Cowan became the 34th Surgeon General of the Navy and Chief, Bureau of Medicine and Surgery on Aug. 10, 2001. Raised in Fort Morgan, CO, he attended the University of Colorado and received his M.D. degree from Washington University, St. Louis. Postgraduate training began at Temple University and after entering the Navy, was completed at the National Naval Medical Center, Bethesda. He is certified in Internal Medicine, and as a Physician Executive of the American College of Physician Executives. Admiral Cowan began his Navy career as a General Medical Officer at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina in 1971, and was promoted to flag rank while serving as Commanding Officer at the same hospital 25 years later. In between, he has held a wide variety of clinical, research, operational, staff and leadership positions, including Deputy Executive Director, Chief Operating Officer, and Program Executive Officer, TRICARE Management Activity, Assistant Secretary of Defense, Health Affairs; Chief of Staff, Assistant Secretary of Defense, Health Affairs; Surgeon to the Joint Staff; Commander, Defense Medical Readiness Training Institute; Commanding Officer, Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune; Task Force Surgeon, Operation Restore Hope, Somalia Senior Research Fellow, National Defense University; Vice Chairman, Department of Military Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences; Chief of Internal Medicine, U.S. Naval Hospital Rota, Spain. Throughout his career he has contributed to important advances in the military health system to include: the Military Training Network for Resuscitative Medicine, MTN; the National Disaster Medical System, NDMS; DMRTI; and the integration Force Health Protection Doctrine into Joint Staff Joint Vision 2020. At TRICARE Management Activity, he played a major leadership role in the implementation of the National Defense Authorization Act of 2001, the TRICARE e-health initiative and The National Enrollment Database. Recognized by the Department of Defense, Members of Congress, and the Nation's health care experts as a physician and leader always on the cutting edge of innovation and vision. Admiral Cowan leaves a legacy of distinction and accomplishments in which he should take great pride and satisfaction. During his tenure as the Navy Surgeon General, he has met every challenge posed including responding to the attacks of September 11, 2001, supporting the response to the anthrax attack on the Hart Senate Office Building in October 2001, Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom, the ongoing Global War on Terror, and most recently the ricin attack on the Dirksen Senate Building. Mr. President, I ask to extend best wishes on behalf of the U.S. Senate, for continued happiness and success to Admiral Cowan and his lovely wife Linda as they begin the next chapter of their lives, with the thanks and gratitude of a grateful nation for Admiral Cowan's loyal and dedicated service.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I would like to announce that the Committee on Indian Affairs will meet on Wednesday, June 16, 2004, at 10 a.m. in room 485 of the Russell Senate Office Building to conduct a business meeting on pending committee matters, to be followed immediately by an oversight hearing on the implementation in Native American communities of the ``No Child Left Behind Act.'' Mr. President, I will ask unanimous consent that the Committee on Indian Affairs also be authorized to meet again on Wednesday, June 16, 2004, at 2 p.m. in room 485 of the Russell Senate Office Building to conduct a hearing on S. 1996, the Oglala Sioux Tribe Angostura Irrigation Project Rehabilitation and Development Act. Those wishing additional information may contact the Indian Affairs Committee at 224-2251.

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I would like to announce that the Committee on Indian Affairs will meet on Tuesday, June 15, 2004, at 10 a.m. in room 485 of the Russell Senate Office Building to conduct a hearing on S. 1530, the Tribal Parity Act. Those wishing additional information may contact the Indian Affairs Committee at 224-2251. committee on indian affairs

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I introduce the ``Ronald Wilson Reagan Commemorative Coin Act of 2004.'' This bill is the same as one I introduced in the 107th Congress, and would accomplish two worthy goals. First, it would help honor Ronald Wilson Reagan, the 40th President of the United States, and the many worthy contributions he made to this nation. Second, it would also help raise much needed resources to help families across the United States provide care for their loved ones who have been stricken by Alzheimer's disease. This legislation's timeliness is obviously without question, as we as a nation honor Ronald Reagan this week and mourn his passing. The worthiness of the bill also goes without question. Most of us have seen Nancy Reagan discuss her husband's illness. Watching Mrs. Reagan as she has so openly and eloquently shared touching insights about their struggle with Alzheimer's disease has always been very moving. There is no doubt about the truly deep bonds that united Ronald and Nancy Reagan and that we need to continue to do what we can to fight the disease that slowly took it's terrible toll on the Reagans and so many other American families. Ronald Reagan wore many hats in his life, including endeavors as a sports announcer, actor, governor and President of the United States. He was first elected president in 1980 and served two terms, becoming the first president to serve two full terms since Dwight Eisenhower. His boundless optimism and deep-seated belief in the people of the United States and the American Dream helped restore our Nation's pride in itself and brought about a new ``Morning in America.'' His challenge to Gorbachev to ``tear down this wall,'' his successful revival of our economic power, his determination to rebuild our armed forces in order to contain the spread of communism, and his international summitry skills as seen at Reykjavik, Iceland, combined to help bring an end to the Cold War. Ronald Reagan left our Nation in much better shape than it was in when he took office. As Alzheimer's sets in, brain cells gradually deteriorate and die. People afflicted by the disease gradually lose their cognitive ability. Patients eventually become completely helpless and dependent on those around them for even the most basic daily needs. Each of the millions of Americans who is now affected will eventually, barring new discoveries in treatment, lose their ability to remember recent and past events, family and friends, even simple things like how to take a bath or turn on lights. Ronald Reagan, one of the most courageous and optimistic Presidents in American history, was no exception. Shortly after being shot in an assassination attempt, Ronald Reagan's courage and good humor in the face of a life threatening situation were evident when he famously apologized to his wife Nancy saying ``Sorry honey. I forgot to duck.'' Unfortunately, once Alzheimer's disease takes hold, it delivers a slow mind destroying bullet that none of us can duck to avoid. As Ronald Reagan wrote shortly after learning of his diagnosis ``I only wish there was some way I could spare Nancy from this painful experience.'' From the moment of diagnosis, it's ``a truly long, long, goodbye,'' Nancy Reagan said. Fortunately for all of us, when Ronald Reagan courageously announced in such an honest and public manner that he had Alzheimer's, rather than covering it up, he did a great deal to help alleviate the negative stigma that has long faced those suffering from this terrible disease. Much of the shame and pity traditionally associated with Alzheimer's was transformed almost overnight into sympathy and understanding as public awareness suddenly shot up and those suffering from Alzheimer's, and their families, knew that they were not alone. While Ronald Reagan's health didn't deteriorate right away, according to Mrs. Reagan, he had his good days and bad days, ``just like everybody else.'' In recent years, however, Reagan's condition completely deteriorated--and quickly. ``It's frightening and it's cruel,'' Nancy said, speaking of the disease and what it has done to her husband and family. ``It's sad to see somebody you love and have been married to for so long, with Alzheimer's, and you can't share memories,'' Mrs. Reagan said. In the introduction to a recently released book based on the touching love letters exchanged between herself and Reagan, Nancy elaborated on her sense of loss when she wrote, ``You know that it's a progressive disease and that there's no place to go but down, no light at the end of the tunnel. You get tired and frustrated, because you have no control and you feel helpless.'' She also said, ``There are so many memories that I can no longer share, which makes it very difficult.'' Nancy Reagan has earned our Nation's admiration for her steadfast and loving dedication to her husband as she watched her beloved husband slowly fade away. Likewise, families all across our Nation, day in and day out, choose to personally provide care for their loved ones suffering from Alzheimer's, rather than putting them in institutions. They deserve our respect and support. Fortunately, Mrs. Reagan has had access to vital resources that helped her care for her husband. This is how it should be. Unfortunately, there are many American families out there who do not have access to these resources. This bill will help alleviate that by raising money to help American families who are struggling while providing care for their loved ones. Funding for Alzheimer's research has increased significantly over the past several years. Ronald Reagan's courage in coming forward and publicly announcing his condition played an important role in raising public awareness of Alzheimer's and paved the way for the recent increases in research funding. But much more needs to be done and this bill would complement these efforts. Once again, the legislation I am introducing today authorizes the U.S. Mint to produce commemorative coins honoring Ronald W. Reagan while raising funds to help families care for their family members suffering from Alzheimer's disease. I urge my colleagues to support passage of this legislation. Ronald Reagan's eternal optimism and deep seated belief in an even better future for our Nation was underscored when he said. ``I know that for America, there will always be a bright future ahead.'' In honoring him this week, and in honoring his struggle, this bill, in keeping with this quote's spirit, will help provide for a better future for many American families. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I introduce the ``Ronald Wilson Reagan Commemorative Coin Act of 2004.'' This bill is the same as one I introduced in the 107th Congress, and would accomplish two worthy goals. First, it would help honor Ronald Wilson Reagan, the 40th President of the United States, and the many worthy contributions he made to this nation. Second, it would also help raise much needed resources to help families across the United States provide care for their loved ones who have been stricken by Alzheimer's disease. This legislation's timeliness is obviously without question, as we as a nation honor Ronald Reagan this week and mourn his passing. The worthiness of the bill also goes without question. Most of us have seen Nancy Reagan discuss her husband's illness. Watching Mrs. Reagan as she has so openly and eloquently shared touching insights about their struggle with Alzheimer's disease has always been very moving. There is no doubt about the truly deep bonds that united Ronald and Nancy Reagan and that we need to continue to do what we can to fight the disease that slowly took it's terrible toll on the Reagans and so many other American families. Ronald Reagan wore many hats in his life, including endeavors as a sports announcer, actor, governor and President of the United States. He was first elected president in 1980 and served two terms, becoming the first president to serve two full terms since Dwight Eisenhower. His boundless optimism and deep-seated belief in the people of the United States and the American Dream helped restore our Nation's pride in itself and brought about a new ``Morning in America.'' His challenge to Gorbachev to ``tear down this wall,'' his successful revival of our economic power, his determination to rebuild our armed forces in order to contain the spread of communism, and his international summitry skills as seen at Reykjavik, Iceland, combined to help bring an end to the Cold War. Ronald Reagan left our Nation in much better shape than it was in when he took office. As Alzheimer's sets in, brain cells gradually deteriorate and die. People afflicted by the disease gradually lose their cognitive ability. Patients eventually become completely helpless and dependent on those around them for even the most basic daily needs. Each of the millions of Americans who is now affected will eventually, barring new discoveries in treatment, lose their ability to remember recent and past events, family and friends, even simple things like how to take a bath or turn on lights. Ronald Reagan, one of the most courageous and optimistic Presidents in American history, was no exception. Shortly after being shot in an assassination attempt, Ronald Reagan's courage and good humor in the face of a life threatening situation were evident when he famously apologized to his wife Nancy saying ``Sorry honey. I forgot to duck.'' Unfortunately, once Alzheimer's disease takes hold, it delivers a slow mind destroying bullet that none of us can duck to avoid. As Ronald Reagan wrote shortly after learning of his diagnosis ``I only wish there was some way I could spare Nancy from this painful experience.'' From the moment of diagnosis, it's ``a truly long, long, goodbye,'' Nancy Reagan said. Fortunately for all of us, when Ronald Reagan courageously announced in such an honest and public manner that he had Alzheimer's, rather than covering it up, he did a great deal to help alleviate the negative stigma that has long faced those suffering from this terrible disease. Much of the shame and pity traditionally associated with Alzheimer's was transformed almost overnight into sympathy and understanding as public awareness suddenly shot up and those suffering from Alzheimer's, and their families, knew that they were not alone. While Ronald Reagan's health didn't deteriorate right away, according to Mrs. Reagan, he had his good days and bad days, ``just like everybody else.'' In recent years, however, Reagan's condition completely deteriorated--and quickly. ``It's frightening and it's cruel,'' Nancy said, speaking of the disease and what it has done to her husband and family. ``It's sad to see somebody you love and have been married to for so long, with Alzheimer's, and you can't share memories,'' Mrs. Reagan said. In the introduction to a recently released book based on the touching love letters exchanged between herself and Reagan, Nancy elaborated on her sense of loss when she wrote, ``You know that it's a progressive disease and that there's no place to go but down, no light at the end of the tunnel. You get tired and frustrated, because you have no control and you feel helpless.'' She also said, ``There are so many memories that I can no longer share, which makes it very difficult.'' Nancy Reagan has earned our Nation's admiration for her steadfast and loving dedication to her husband as she watched her beloved husband slowly fade away. Likewise, families all across our Nation, day in and day out, choose to personally provide care for their loved ones suffering from Alzheimer's, rather than putting them in institutions. They deserve our respect and support. Fortunately, Mrs. Reagan has had access to vital resources that helped her care for her husband. This is how it should be. Unfortunately, there are many American families out there who do not have access to these resources. This bill will help alleviate that by raising money to help American families who are struggling while providing care for their loved ones. Funding for Alzheimer's research has increased significantly over the past several years. Ronald Reagan's courage in coming forward and publicly announcing his condition played an important role in raising public awareness of Alzheimer's and paved the way for the recent increases in research funding. But much more needs to be done and this bill would complement these efforts. Once again, the legislation I am introducing today authorizes the U.S. Mint to produce commemorative coins honoring Ronald W. Reagan while raising funds to help families care for their family members suffering from Alzheimer's disease. I urge my colleagues to support passage of this legislation. Ronald Reagan's eternal optimism and deep seated belief in an even better future for our Nation was underscored when he said. ``I know that for America, there will always be a bright future ahead.'' In honoring him this week, and in honoring his struggle, this bill, in keeping with this quote's spirit, will help provide for a better future for many American families. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I would like to announce that the Committee on Indian Affairs will meet on Wednesday, June 9, 2004, at 10 a.m. in room 485 of the Russell Senate Office Building to conduct a business meeting on pending committee matters, to be followed immediately by an oversight hearing on the implementation in Native American communities of the ``No Child Left Behind Act.'' Those wishing additional information may contact the Indian Affairs Committee at 224-2251. committee on Energy and Natural Resources

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I would like to announce that the Committee on Indian Affairs will meet on Tuesday, June 8, 2004, at 10 a.m. in room 485 of the Russell Senate Office Building to conduct a hearing on S. 2436, a bill to reauthorize the Native American Programs Act. Those wishing additional information may contact the Indian Affairs Committee at 224-2251. committee on indian affairs

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, 2 years ago, the United States Helsinki Commission, which I co-chair, held its third hearing on the human rights problems faced by Roma. At that time, we gave particular attention to the barriers Roma face in the field of education. As the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities said in his very helpful report on Roma in OSCE region, ``exclusion of Roma extends to every sphere of social life, perhaps nowhere with more far-reaching and harmful effect than in respect of schooling.'' In other words, ensuring equal access for Roma in the fields of education is an essential element for their integration in other areas of life. The World Bank and United Nations Development Program have also emphasized, in their reports, that integration in education is an essential ingredient for improving the overall conditions in which Roma live. Last month, as our own country was commemorating the Supreme Court's historic decision in Brown v. Board of Education, the European Roma Rights Center issued a report entitled ``Stigmata: Segregated Schooling of Roma in Central and Eastern Europe.'' This report evaluates practices and policies in Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia and describes the most common ways of segregating Romani children from non-Roma: channeling Roma into so-called ``special schools'' for children with developmental disabilities; the de facto segregation that goes hand-in-hand with Romani ghettos; having mixed population schools where Romani children are segregated into all-Romani classes; and the refusal of some local authorities to enroll Romani children in mainstream schools. The European Roma Rights Center report concludes that, unfortunately, ``with the exception of Hungary, concrete government action aimed at desegregating the school system has not been initiated to date.'' It is surely not a coincidence that Hungary is also the only country in Europe where the mainstream political parties have started to compete for the Romani vote--both developments which reflect meaningful steps towards the real integration of Roma in that country. As the European Roma Rights Center notes, segregated schooling is the result of many factors which conspire together--not the least of which is the pernicious stereotype that Romani culture is somehow incompatible with education. This fiction continues to be widely held and disseminated by the media, by government officials and public leaders, and sometimes even by the representatives of respected international organizations. Frankly, this myth needs to be debunked. In reality, before World War II, there was no country in Europe that allowed Roma to attend school and maintain their language and cultural identity at the same time. Formal schooling, by definition, meant forced assimilation. It is amazing testimony to the strength of Romani culture that--after centuries as a dispersed people in Europe, after slavery in Romania and Moldova, after forced assimilation campaigns, and after the Holocaust--Romani identity has survived. For most Roma in Europe, concentrated in countries that fell behind the Iron Curtain, it is only the context of a post-communist world, a Europe which has now recognized the rights of ethnic and linguistic minorities, that the theoretical opportunity to be educated without having to hide or surrender one's Romani identity is within grasp. Kids like Elvis Hajdar, the Romani-Macedonian computer whiz-kid the Christian Science Monitor profiled in April, embrace this opportunity. For many other Roma, however, educational opportunities remain only distant and only theoretical. And, contrary to popular mythology, it is not Romani culture that holds them back, but crushing poverty and entrenched racism. Education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and it is no surprise that Romani organizations across Europe have made access to education one of their principle demands. Moreover, the ``Action Plan on Improving the Situation of Roma and Sinti within the OSCE Area,'' adopted at the Maastricht Ministerial last December, the OSCE participating states outlined a variety of concrete measures states might undertake to achieve this goal. But desegregation will not just happen on its own. It will take leadership and political will and--as we know from our own experiences after the Brown decision--it may still take many years. The time to get started is now.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I am introducing the Korean Defense Service Combat Recognition Act of 2004 which would amend Title 10, United States Code, to revise the requirements for award of the Combat Infantryman Badge and the Combat Medical Badge with respect to service in Korea after July 28, 1953. The Army awards the Combat Infantry Badge (CIB) to recognize members of infantry units who have been engaged in ground combat. The Combat Medical Badge (CMB) recognizes field medics who accompany infantry troops into battle. A 1968 Army regulation makes it much more difficult for U.S. troops serving in South Korea to be awarded the CIB or CMB than for troops serving almost anywhere else in the world. Specifically, infantrymen stationed in South Korea must be in five firefights in order to qualify for the awards. In other combat zones, the requirement is one firefight. In addition, to be awarded the medals, troops in South Korea must also have served in theater for sixty days in a hostile fire area, be authorized hostile fire pay, and be recommended by each superior up the chain-of-command to the division level. My bill normalizes the rules so that all troops, no matter where they serve, are subject to the same eligibility requirements for these two prestigious medals. Unfortunately, the Army regulation has had the unintended consequence of making it extra difficult for infantry and medical units serving along the DMZ in South Korea to earn combat recognition medals. A spokesman for the Korean Defense Veterans of America (KDVA) has described these requirements as making it nearly impossible to be awarded the CIB for infantrymen serving in Korea, short of getting killed in combat. The KDVA is a group of veterans and active soldiers who are serving, or who have served, in South Korea since 1953. This language is supported by the KDVA and the Combat Infantryman's Association. The Combat Infantryman's Association is a group of Army infantrymen who have been awarded the Combat Infantry Badge. It is unfair and wrong to require five firefights in South Korea, but only one firefight in Grenada, Panama, the Dominican Republic, Laos, Vietnam, and almost every other location in the world. The Korean Defense Service Combat Recognition Act of 2004 normalizes the rules so that all troops, no matter where they serve, are subject to the same eligibility requirements for these two prestigious medals. I urge my colleagues to support its passage and ask unanimous consent that the text of this bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I am introducing the Korean Defense Service Combat Recognition Act of 2004 which would amend Title 10, United States Code, to revise the requirements for award of the Combat Infantryman Badge and the Combat Medical Badge with respect to service in Korea after July 28, 1953. The Army awards the Combat Infantry Badge (CIB) to recognize members of infantry units who have been engaged in ground combat. The Combat Medical Badge (CMB) recognizes field medics who accompany infantry troops into battle. A 1968 Army regulation makes it much more difficult for U.S. troops serving in South Korea to be awarded the CIB or CMB than for troops serving almost anywhere else in the world. Specifically, infantrymen stationed in South Korea must be in five firefights in order to qualify for the awards. In other combat zones, the requirement is one firefight. In addition, to be awarded the medals, troops in South Korea must also have served in theater for sixty days in a hostile fire area, be authorized hostile fire pay, and be recommended by each superior up the chain-of-command to the division level. My bill normalizes the rules so that all troops, no matter where they serve, are subject to the same eligibility requirements for these two prestigious medals. Unfortunately, the Army regulation has had the unintended consequence of making it extra difficult for infantry and medical units serving along the DMZ in South Korea to earn combat recognition medals. A spokesman for the Korean Defense Veterans of America (KDVA) has described these requirements as making it nearly impossible to be awarded the CIB for infantrymen serving in Korea, short of getting killed in combat. The KDVA is a group of veterans and active soldiers who are serving, or who have served, in South Korea since 1953. This language is supported by the KDVA and the Combat Infantryman's Association. The Combat Infantryman's Association is a group of Army infantrymen who have been awarded the Combat Infantry Badge. It is unfair and wrong to require five firefights in South Korea, but only one firefight in Grenada, Panama, the Dominican Republic, Laos, Vietnam, and almost every other location in the world. The Korean Defense Service Combat Recognition Act of 2004 normalizes the rules so that all troops, no matter where they serve, are subject to the same eligibility requirements for these two prestigious medals. I urge my colleagues to support its passage and ask unanimous consent that the text of this bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I would like to announce that the Committee on Indian Affairs will meet on Thursday, May 20, 2004, at 10 a.m. in room 485 of the Russell Senate Office Building to conduct a hearing on S. 2382, the Native American Connectivity Act. Those wishing additional information may contact the Indian Affairs Committee at 224- 2251. subcommittee on public lands and forests

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I would like to announce that the Committee on Indian Affairs will meet on Wednesday, May 19, 2004, at 10 a.m. in room 485 of the Russell Senate Office Building to conduct a business meeting on S.J. Res. 37, a resolution to acknowledge a long history of official depredations and ill-conceived policies by the United States Government regarding Indian tribes and offer an apology to all native Peoples on behalf of the United States, and S. 2277, a bill to amend the act of November 2, 1966 (80 Stat. 1112), to allow binding arbitration clauses to be included in all contracts affecting the land within the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Reservation; to be followed immediately by a hearing on S. 1696, a bill to amend the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act to provide further self-governance by Indian tribes. Those wishing additional information may contact the Indian Affairs Committee at 224-2251. committee on indian affairs

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I rise today to submit a resolution supporting the ongoing important work of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) in combating anti-Semitism, racism, xenophobia, discrimination, intolerance and related violence. As Co- Chairman of the Helsinki Commission, I remain concerned over manifestations of anti-Semitism that prompted me to introduce S. Con. Res. 7, a bipartisan initiative that unanimously passed the Senate last May. That measure provided impetus to efforts to confront and combat anti-Semitic violence in the OSCE region, the subject of a May 2002 Helsinki Commission hearing. The resolution I submit today is aimed at building upon these efforts. The OSCE and its participating States have done much to confront and combat the disease of anti-Semitism and intolerance, and I urge our government and all other OSCE countries to continue their efforts with vigor and determination. Much of what has been accomplished can be attributed to U.S. leadership, especially to the work of U.S. Ambassador to the OSCE, Stephan M. Minikes, and his team in Vienna. Last month the OSCE convened an historic conference in Berlin focused on anti-Semitism and violence against Jews and Jewish institutions and tools to combat this age old problem. The U.S. delegation was represented at the highest level with the participation of Secretary of State Colin L. Powell. The conference brought together elected officials and NGOs from around the globe in common support of efforts to fight anti-Semitism. The resolution I am submitting today follows up on several of the initiatives from Berlin. The conference was punctuated with the ``Berlin Declaration,'' a statement given by the Bulgarian Chairman-in- Office, Foreign Minister Solomon Passy, during the closing plenary session. In addition to declaring that ``international developments or political issues, including those in Israel or elsewhere in the Middle East, never justify anti-Semitism,'' the Declaration advanced efforts to monitor anti-Semitic crimes and hate crimes, as all OSCE participating States committed to ``collect and maintain'' statistics about these incidents and to forward that information to the OSCE's Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) for compilation. The resolution urges all participating States to ensure these promises are fulfilled, and calls upon the Bulgarian Chairman-in- Office to designate a ``personal envoy'' to monitor compliance with these commitments. The resolution also speaks to the importance of confronting instances of racism, discrimination and xenophobia wherever it occurs. It is important to note that in September, the OSCE will convene a meeting on these matters, the Brussels Conference on Tolerance and the Fight against Racism, Xenophobia and Discrimination. This meeting is very important, as no OSCE participating State is immune from these evils. As Co-Chairman of the Helsinki Commission, I have been impressed by the efforts of the OSCE and its participating States to address issues of anti-Semitism and intolerance. However, the time for words has passed, and I urge all OSCE countries, including the United States, to take real action. This resolution highlights several areas where steps can and should be taken. I urge bipartisan support and speedy passage of this measure.