Elizabeth Dole

Mrs. DOLE

Mrs. DOLE. Mr. President, North Carolina lost a loyal son and a devoted public servant when William McWhorter Cochrane died in Charlotte at the end of December. Bill dearly loved his home State and was often referred to as ``North Carolina's third Senator.'' He was a man of great knowledge from whom I learned so much over the span of many years, and I feel certain that folks who knew him agree that his kindness was abundant and his accomplishments were endless. Bill attended the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, earning a bachelor's degree in journalism in 1938 and a law degree in 1941. Upon graduation, he served as the assistant director of the UNC Institute of Government. In 1941, he joined the U.S. Naval Reserve and in 1942, he was called to active duty and served aboard the minesweeper USS Improve off the Mediterranean coast. He then returned to the UNC Institute of Government. In 1950, he earned an advanced law degree from Yale University and became an associate research professor of public law and government at UNC. In 1954, when Kerr Scott was elected to the Senate, Bill moved to Washington and served as Senator Scott's executive secretary and legal counsel until the Senator's death in 1957. Bill always insisted that he intended to return to North Carolina, having originally told Senator Scott that he would stay for only one year. But, B. Everett Jordan, appointed as Scott's successor, urged Bill to stay on in Washington. He did so and served as Senator Jordan's administrative assistant for the next 14 years. Through the years, countless North Carolinians made their way to the Russell Building. Those seeking information, advice or a job, found Bill in his office piled high with documents, copies of the Congressional Record, mementos of presidential inaugurations, and thousands of index cards. At the service for Bill in Chapel Hill, many of those who spoke told of the wise counsel Bill provided and of his help in finding a position here in Washington. I count myself among those when, as a young woman, I first came to Washington and received Bill's advice and counsel. During the summer of 1960, I worked in Senator Jordan's office as a summer employee. Knowing that first-hand historical experiences are much treasured by young people, Bill helped me get a front-row ticket to my first national campaign. Because of Bill, I was able to join onboard Democratic Vice-Presidential nominee Lyndon B. Johnson's whistle stop tour of the South. Although my staunchly Republican father was concerned about my riding through the South, especially through my hometown on LBJ's train, I knew Bill was giving me, this political science major, an unmatchable learning experience and I was right. I took in every single moment, watching and learning as the Johnson campaign rolled along all over the South and through my hometown of Salisbury, NC. On the train I met both LBJ and his gracious wife, Lady Bird. Those exciting days on the LBJ express were a blur of cheering crowds, speeches and yellow roses that surely ignited my already burning interest in politics. I will forever be grateful to Bill for that experience. Senator Jordan chaired the Senate Rules Committee for many years, but when he lost his Senate seat in 1972, Bill was appointed staff director and majority counsel of the committee. He held that position from 1972- 80; from 1981-86 he was minority staff director to the committee, and from 1987 to 1994 he served as senior advisor. For 20 years he was staff director of the Joint Committee on Presidential Inaugurals, directing the inaugurations of Presidents Richard Nixon, Jimmy Carter, and Ronald Reagan. For 30 years he served on the staff of the Joint Committee on the Library, and in 1995, James Billington the Librarian of Congress, named Bill honorary historical consultant to the Library of Congress. Dr. Billington said of Bill's service to the library, ``Bill Cochrane was one of the most knowledgeable, wise and devoted public servants I have had the pleasure of knowing. In a career that spanned three decades, as the senior staffer, institutional memory, and conscience of the Joint Committee on the Library and the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration, Bill was involved in every major library initiative, including the construction of the Madison Building, the renovation of the Jefferson and Adams Buildings, and an architect of smooth transitions from one Librarian of Congress to the next. His affection for the library and his long record of support for its mission and programs were unparalleled and will be long remembered.'' Bill's long and valued service to this body and to his home State speak to a remarkable dedication and devotion for which Bill was admired and respected by all those who knew him. It is fitting that at this time, we in the Senate recognize and remember his service. We will surely miss this wise and caring man, wearing his bow tie and smoking his pipe. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Shirley, and sons, William Daniel Cochrane and Thomas McWhorter Cochrane.

Mrs. DOLE

Mrs. DOLE. Mr. President, I rise today to congratulate the University of North Carolina Tar Heels men's basketball team on their national championship. This is the fourth NCAA Division I title for this storied program and a well deserved finish to an amazing season. Now, I know some of you are wondering . . . Yes, I am a Duke graduate and a Duke fan, and as you know, Duke and North Carolina have one of the most legendary rivalries in the nation. That being said, I truly have been behind this team--I even wore Carolina blue to several events in North Carolina last week to show my support! On Monday night, the Tar Heels defeated the Illinois Fighting Illini 75-70 in a remarkable display of teamwork and talent. Led by the performance of Raymond Felton and Sean May, the Tar Heels played strong basketball on both ends of the court. They were able to make critical baskets when the game was on the line and played tenacious defense that stifled their opponent. With this victory, this year's Tar Heel team has solidified its place in college basketball history alongside Carolina greats such as Michael Jordan and James Worthy. Roy Williams, who returned to his home state and alma mater just two years ago, earned his first title and demonstrated once again why he is one of the best coaches in college basketball. Under his leadership, this group of talented young men developed into truly great players with heart and determination. The Tar Heels' Sean May was named most outstanding player in the Final Four for his dominant scoring and rebounding. Sean finished an incredible season with 26 points and 10 rebounds against Illinois. This year started with great expectations as the Tar Heels were picked as the pre-season #1 team by Sports Illustrated. However, in recent years, such impressive rankings were not always the case. Seniors on this Tar Heel team faced great adversity early in their careers as they fought to overcome a disappointing 8-20 season their freshman year. Still, these players were determined to work hard to become a better team. And did they ever. Just 4 years later, these young men completed an incredible turnaround and are now able to call themselves national champions. Today is a proud day for Coach Williams, his terrific players and the state of North Carolina. College basketball is a special tradition for so many North Carolinians. It is a pastime shared from generation to generation and amongst neighbors and friends. It's what so many folks chat about at the grocery store, before class, over dinner, and after church. We are so proud of the North Carolina Tar Heels' accomplishments this season and delighted that they gave us yet another memory to talk about for years to come. I yield the floor.

Mrs. DOLE

Mrs. DOLE. Mr. President, tragedy struck Atlanta, GA this past Friday, March 11, 2005. A quiet day in a county courthouse turned into a horrific shooting spree that took the lives of four innocent people throughout the Georgia capital. Among those who fell victim that day were U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Assistant Special Agent-in-Charge David Wilhelm, who was shot and killed while working to finish his Atlanta home. Friday's heartbreak touches everyone in this country, and is sincerely felt in my hometown of Salisbury, NC, which Special Agent David Wilhelm also called home. David Wilhelm is remembered as a true patriot, whose commitment to hard work, justice, and the enforcement of the law were admired by all who knew him. After graduating from West Rowan High School in 1982, Special Agent Wilhelm earned a criminal justice degree at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. He began his Federal service as a U.S. Customs Agent in June 1987, in Beaufort, SC, and also served in Charlotte, NC and Norfolk, VA before relocating to Atlanta, GA last November. In Atlanta, he was second in command, managing the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigations involving financial crimes, narcotics smuggling, human smuggling, and customs violations. His law enforcement colleagues knew him to be tenacious professionally and a superb team-builder with ace investigative skills and a generous spirit. David Wilhelm's 18-year commitment to Federal service is most commendable. He spent 16 years with the U.S. Customs Service and 2 years with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. In 2001, he was recognized for his dedication and was awarded the prestigious U.S. Customs Service Blue Eagle Award for work on an important narcotics smuggling case resulting in the seizure of approximately two tons of marijuana and $2.4 million in cash. The Blue Eagle Award is bestowed annually for significant work that goes beyond the expected daily duties. I have immense respect for the many Federal law enforcement agents who risk their lives daily to protect Americans. I am truly saddened by the loss of David Wilhelm, and my thoughts and prayers are certainly with his wife Candee, his brother Patrick, who serves as an Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agent in Atlanta, GA, and all his family and friends. May Special Agent David Wilhelm's dedication, sense of duty and honor never be forgotten. In addition, I would like to send my sincere condolences to the families, friends, and co-workers of the other three victims of Friday's violence, Judge Rowland Barnes, court reporter Julie Ann Brandau, and Sergeant Hoyt Teasley of the Fulton County Sheriff's Department.

Mrs. DOLE

Mrs. DOLE. Mr. President; this month marks the 60th anniversary of the victory at Iwo Jima. That battle is remembered as one of the bloodiest in Marine Corps history. Approximately 70,000 American and 22,000 Japanese troops engaged in a month long battle for the Pacific Island that was critical to the air bombardment of mainland Japan. The heroic achievements of our nation's warriors throughout this treacherous battle attest to the courage and character not only of the brave men who fought there, but of our nation as a whole. The island of Iwo Jima consists of coarse volcanic sand that impeded the movement of men and machines as they struggled up the beach. Unable to dig fighting holes, the Marines were sitting ducks for the Japanese gunners hiding in a network of caves. Suribachi, the 550-foot volcanic mountain at the island's southern end, allowed Japanese gunners to zero in on every inch of the landing beach. Blockhouses and pillboxes flanked the landing areas, leading historians to describe the attack as ``throwing human flesh against reinforced concrete.'' The 36-day assault on Iwo Jima resulted in more than 23,200 Americans wounded, and another 6,800 who paid the ultimate price. The battle, which involved the largest number of Marines committed to a single operation during World War II, featured superior service cooperation. The Navy-Marine Corps team functioned as a model of efficiency. To make victory possible, more than 450 ships massed in the surrounding waters. Among those ships was the aircraft carrier USS Saratoga, and on board that ship was my brother, John Hanford. Having graduated from Duke University and joined the Navy at 19, he became an aviation supply officer. John's battle station was a 20 millimeter gun battery, where he led a 15-man team. Tasked with laying an impenetrable curtain of anti-aircraft fire, the 20 millimeter batteries provided the ship's last line of defense from attacking Japanese Zeros and kamikazes. The Saratoga was part of the legendary Task Force 58, commanded by the superb strategist, Vice Admiral Marc Mitscher, who executed a diversionary air bombardment of Japan on the initial days of the Iwo Jima assault. On February 21st, the Saratoga and three destroyers moved south, to provide direct air support for the Marines on Iwo Jima. Although the 20 millimeter batteries were effective out to a mile, the low cloud layer that day as the Saratoga came on station, forced my brother and the rest of the crew to mount a desperate, close-in defense of the ship. In full view of Mt. Suribachi, the Saratoga was subjected to two waves of Japanese air attacks. During the first wave, her radar picked up a large threat, estimated at 20 to 25 planes. Despite the deadly anti-aircraft fire, within 3 minutes three bombs plunged into the Saratoga, immediately followed by four kamikaze hits. Her crew fought fires blazing in the hangar deck, and her planes were directed to land on the nearby escort carriers. Roughly 2 hours later, five kamikazes targeted her again. Four were shot down but one dropped a bomb, which exploded over her flight deck before the plane itself bounced over the side. During the air attacks, the crew could see the USS Bismarck being struck by a kamikaze and minutes later sinking with a crew of 218 aboard. The Saratoga's losses were 192 sailors and Marines wounded, 123 killed or missing. And, as a youngster growing up in Salisbury, NC, I well remember my revered big brother coming home on what was called ``survivor's leave.'' Though extremely costly, the ability to launch and recover aircraft on Iwo Jima was critical to the strategic bombing campaign and ultimately to the American victory in the Japanese theater. The island's capture served to increase the operating range, payload, and survival rate of the big bombers. While the monthly tonnage of high explosives dropped on Imperial Japan increased eleven-fold during March alone, the greatest value of Iwo Jima was to serve as an emergency landing field for crippled B-29s returning from bombing runs. By war's end, a total of 2,400 bombers carrying over 27,000 crewmen made forced landings on the island. Without control of Iwo Jima, many of these men would have been lost at sea. Noted one B-29 pilot, ``whenever I landed on the island, I thanked God for the men who fought for it.'' One of the many heroes of the fierce land battle was PFC Jack Lucas, born and raised in North Carolina. He is the Nation's youngest Medal of Honor recipient of the 20th century and the youngest Marine ever to receive that award. Anxious to fight for his country, this son of a tobacco farmer forged his mother's signature and enlisted in the Marine Corps at age 14. Frustrated with an assignment to a training command, he stowed away on a ship bound for Iwo Jima. Six days after his 17th birthday, he and three other men were attacked by grenades. The men jumped into a shallow hole; as a grenade landed next to them, Private Lucas threw his body over it. When another grenade landed close by, Private Lucas pulled it under him and absorbed the blasts of both grenades with his body, saving his fellow Marines from certain injury and possible death. Miraculously, he survived. Bob and I have had the privilege of several visits with Jack and his wonderful wife. Private Lucas is a representative of what has been hailed as ``The Greatest Generation.'' As evidenced by America's triumphs in numerous conflicts since World War II, the traits, the spirit of the Greatest Generation have certainly been passed on. Today, approximately 14,000 Marines of the Second Marine Expeditionary Force, based in North Carolina, are in the process of deploying to Iraq to continue fighting for freedom. I am very proud to recognize 41 Marine lieutenants who are sitting in the gallery today. These young men and women are the newest bearers of the torch of freedom so proudly carried by the Iwo Jima veterans. This platoon of recently commissioned officers is about to finish training, and in a few short months many of them will find themselves in direct combat supporting the global war against terrorism. I applaud their selfless act, volunteering to serve our Nation during this time of war; they represent our Nation's best. I have no doubt that these young officers will have the privilege of leading many men and women who possess the same qualities of tenacity and valor displayed by Private Lucas. I could not agree more with Jack Lucas who recently said, ``I am so proud of the people who serve today, whether in peacetime or in war. You can't do anything better than serve America . . . I love our government and our military and I think it's the most honorable thing a man or woman can do''. The battle of Iwo Jima resulted in 27 Medals of Honor being awarded to Marines and sailors, many posthumously, more than awarded for any other operation during World War II. Commander of the Pacific Fleet, ADM Chester Nimitz, immortalized the spirit of the battle noting that ``among the Americans who served on Iwo Island, uncommon valor was a common virtue.'' The Marines present here today, as well as all of our military members serving around the globe, are continuously making sacrifices to protect our freedoms. I am certain that they, too, possess the uncommon valor which has made our Nation so strong in the past, and will keep her strong well into the future.

Mrs. DOLE. Yes.

Mrs. DOLE. I thank the Senator for his comments.

Mrs. DOLE

Mrs. DOLE. Mr. President, I rise today with a very heavy heart. And I know the devastation and deep sadness I feel are shared by many in the Capitol, in Washington, and throughout America. For with the passing of former Congresswoman Tillie Fowler, America has lost one of her most accomplished and dedicated public servants, and I have lost one of my most precious friends. Tillie's remarkable record of public service is well known to many of my colleagues. It began over three decades ago, when she worked as a legislative staff member here on Capitol Hill. Her talents soon attracted the attention of Virginia Knauer, Special Assistant to the President for Consumer Affairs. It was there that Tillie and I worked side by side and bonded as lifelong friends. Following her marriage, she and her beloved husband, Buck, moved to Florida, where they would raise two wonderful daughters--Tillie Anne, and my goddaughter, Elizabeth. Tillie also devoted her talents and her enormous energy to her community as a volunteer serving in numerous leadership positions. She was President of the Jacksonville City Council--the first woman ever to hold that position, and the first Republican to preside over the council in more than a century. This, despite the fact that the Council consisted of 16 Democrats and only 3 Republicans. Clearly, Tillie's intelligence, integrity, and leadership skills were respected across party lines. In 1992, Tillie ran for the United States House of Representatives. Her popularity was so great that the incumbent Congressman decided to retire rather than run against her. As those who served with her know, Tillie quickly earned a reputation as one of the hardest working and most effective Members of Congress. She was recognized as one of the 1 most thoughtful and visionary members of the House Armed Services Committee, and the 8 years she spent in the halls of the Capitol were full of accomplishments. She became the highest ranking woman on either side of Capitol Hill, when her colleagues selected her as Vice Chair of the Republican Conference. Term-limiting herself, she retired from Congress, but not from public service. Time and again she was called on by our Nation's leaders to serve in important and sensitive assignments. Defense Secretary Rumsfeld named her Chair--the first female Chair--of the Defense Policy Board Advisory Committee, and he appointed her to lead the seven member panel created by Congress to review misconduct allegations at the Air Force Academy. He turned to her again for a blue-ribbon panel to provide independent professional advice on Iraq's Abu Ghraib prison. Tillie Fowler was a role model of what a servant of the public should be. And she was the finest friend that one could have. Loyal and caring, she was like a sister to me--always there, always reaching out, always searching for ways in which she could help. Poet Robert Frost wrote: ``As dawn goes down to day; Nothing gold can stay.'' Tillie was pure gold. She will live forever in my heart. Bob and I send our strongest support, our love, our prayers to Tillie's family.

Mrs. DOLE

Mrs. DOLE. Mr. President, this month we mark the 79th celebration of African American Black History Month. What was launched by civil rights pioneer Dr. Carter G. Woodson in 1926 as Black History Week and observed in Black schools and churches today is a month-long national tribute to the tremendous historical contributions of African Americans from all walks of life and professions. I am so very proud of the rich and vibrant African-American heritage in my home State of North Carolina. Our history is full of trailblazers, including Franklin McCain, Joseph McNeil, Ezell Blair, Jr., and David Richmond, known as the Greensboro Four because of their February 1960 sit-ins at a Woolworth Store counter in Greensboro, NC. Their sit-ins were the first significant event of this type, quickly gaining momentum and attention. In less than a week, the four North Carolina A&T freshmen had been joined by 1,000 other students from local high schools and universities. As the Greensboro News & Record stated earlier this month, the Greensboro sit-in ``gave new life to the nation's civil rights movement and helped pave the way for its triumphs later in the decade.'' These individuals truly laid the foundation for the America we strive to be, where all people are given opportunity and treated fairly, regardless of their skin color. North Carolina, with its long and proud military history, also produced 21 of the famed Tuskegee Airmen. Trained in Tuskegee, AL, these brave men made up the first African-American military flying unit in World War II. I am proud to cosponsor recently introduced legislation that authorizes the President to award a gold medal on behalf of Congress to the Tuskegee Airmen. These brave soldiers truly left their mark on history not just in battle--their great success helped pave the way for the integration of our Armed Forces in 1948. North Carolina also has made great strides in higher education. We have 11 historically Black colleges and universities, including Shaw University in Raleigh, founded in 1865 and the oldest HBCU in the South. I was honored to give the commencement address and receive an honorary degree several years ago from Livingstone College, another outstanding historically Black college in my hometown of Salisbury. I also am so very proud that my husband Bob is serving as chairman of a $50 million fundraising campaign at Bennett College in Greensboro, one of only two historically Black women's colleges in America. Bennett College President Dr. Johnnetta Cole is a pioneer in her own right, having received 50 honorary degrees during an impressive career in academia that includes being the first African-American woman to serve as president of Spelman College. And in May 2004, Dr. Cole became the first African-American to serve as chair of the Board of United Way of America. A short time ago Congress debated legislation to make the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., a national holiday. The floor leader for that legislation was a fellow named Bob Dole. During the final debate, I had the privilege of sitting in the gallery with Coretta Scott King, as we heard Bob deliver these words: ``A nation defines itself in many ways; in the promises it makes and the programs it enacts, the dreams it enshrines, or the doors it slams shut. Thanks to Dr. King, America wrote new laws to strike down old barriers. She built bridges instead of walls . . . there is nothing partisan about justice. It is conservative as the Constitution, as liberal as Lincoln, as radical as Jefferson's sweeping assertion that all of God's creation is equal in His eyes.'' I could not agree more.

Mrs. DOLE

Mrs. DOLE. Mr. President, I rise today in support of the Class Action Fairness Act of 2005, legislation that is greatly needed to restore public confidence in our Nation's judicial system and protect jobs in my own State and throughout the country. Frivolous litigation has helped drive the total cost of our tort system to more than $230 billion a year. Tort costs in America are now far higher than those of any other major industrialized nation, and in our global economy, this has become a tremendous disadvantage for American manufacturers and entrepreneurs, who have long sought reform. But this affects not just certain businesses; this affects our overall economy and all Americans. The Class Action Fairness Act will provide that some class action suits be litigated in the Federal courts rather than allowing venue shopping for a sympathetic State court. The measure will also ensure that cases of national importance are not overlooked. Most importantly, this legislation will ensure that class members with legitimate claims are fairly compensated. Class action suits are an important part of our legal system. They originated to make our courts more efficient by joining together parties with a common claim. However, growing abuses by opportunistic plaintiffs' attorneys--coupled with the skyrocketing costs of runaway litigation and excessive awards--have had a dramatic impact on America's interstate commerce. Over the past decade, the number of class action lawsuits has grown by over 1,000 percent nationwide. And the jury awards are sharply increasing over time as well. In 1999, the top 10 awards totaled $9 billion; by 2002, that number had jumped to $32.7 billion. Businesses, like those in my home State of North Carolina, are losing out because the rules in place today allow lawyers to ``shop'' for the ``friendliest'' court to hear their case. And it is not just large companies being sacked with enormous payouts in class action lawsuits. Small businesses are bearing the majority of tort liability costs. According to a study conducted for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, small businesses bear 68 percent of tort liability costs but take in just 25 percent of business revenue. We all know that small businesses are the job creators and the engines of our economy. They create 70 percent of all new jobs in America. Yet the rules in place today allow for a judicial system that is truly hurting them and causing them to spend money--on average $150,000 a year--on litigation expenses rather than on business development and equipment and expansion--the very things that can lead to more jobs. Our goal in reforming class action lawsuits is to provide justice to the truly injured parties, not to deny victims their day in court and their just compensation. Lawsuit costs have risen substantially over the past several decades, and a significant part of these costs is going towards paying exorbitant lawyers' fees and transaction costs. And some injured plaintiffs are suffering because of weak State court oversight of class action cases. In fact, under the current U.S. tort system, less than 50 cents on the dollar finds its way to claimants, and only 22 cents compensate for actual economic loss. And sometimes class members don't receive cash at all. For example, in a settlement with Crayola, approved by a State court in Illinois, crayon purchasers in North Carolina and around the country received 75- cent coupons for the purchase of more crayons; their lawyers, however, received $600,000 in cash. And in the Cheerios class action settlement, also approved by State court in Illinois, consumers in North Carolina and around the country received coupons for buying a single box of cereal, while lawyers got $1.75 million. I hardly think it's in the best interest of the class member to actually have to purchase more of a product to receive any benefit. And it isn't fair that class members are losing out while their attorneys are cashing in. This legislation establishes a ``Consumer Class Action Bill of Rights'' that will ensure that class actions do not harm the intended beneficiaries--people who were actually harmed by the actions of a defendant. And it does nothing to prevent class members from having their cases heard--it just establishes that some of these cases may be heard in Federal courts. It is time we do what is right and repair this broken system--for claimants in class action cases, for our Nation's economy, businesses large and small, and for all Americans.

Mrs. DOLE

Mrs. DOLE. Mr. President, we must do everything possible to show our military men and women and their families how much we appreciate and honor their service. Last week I was proud to cosponsor legislation introduced by Senators Allen, Sessions and Lieberman reaffirming the commitment of this Congress to our military men and women and their families. This effort has received my strongest support, and thanks to the endorsement of the Leadership and the work over the past years by many of my other colleagues, an increase in financial support to the families of men and women killed in combat could soon be a reality. When a soldier pays the ultimate sacrifice, no amount of money can ease the grief of his or her family, but a significant increase in the benefits paid to our military families sends a strong message of our gratitude and support. Currently, when a service member is killed in combat, the family receives only $12,420. This is simply unacceptable. We are a strong, prosperous Nation, a Nation that honors and respects our sons and daughters in the Armed Services. We can and must do better to provide for the families of those who've lost their lives. The current proposal to increase what is called the ``death gratuity'' to $100,000 is most certainly a step in the right direction. This increase, retroactive to October 2001, is critically important not only to the families who lose loved ones, but to soldiers currently serving or those who are considering enlisting. It sends the message that we value their service, and should something happen to them, their families will be generously cared for. Maxine Crockett of Fayetteville, NC, lost her husband, Staff Sergeant Ricky L. Crockett, to a bomb blast in Baghdad in January of last year. She and her 15-year-old daughter were left not only grief-stricken but worried about surviving financially with the loss of a provider. Maxine told the Raleigh News & Observer, ``When it comes down to just one income, this [increase] would really help by giving you the time to get back on your feet.'' When a family does receive the heartbreaking notification that a loved one was killed in action, they are understandably overcome with grief. In the midst of their devastation, they are required to make many decisions. Casualty Assistance Officers play a critical role in helping them through this process. I had the privilege of meeting many of these dedicated, impressive men and women personally at Fort Bragg last year. These officers are there with the families following notification, through funeral preparations, burial and the process of determining benefits and compensation. They assist when any problems arise and literally go above and beyond their job description. And long after, these families know these officers can be contacted as concerns arise. This is the kind of service and compassion these families deserve. We also have a responsibility to assist those servicemen and women who are seriously injured and their families. With the improvements in body armor and heroic efforts of our military medical teams both in theater and at home, so many more of our soldiers are surviving, but often with debilitating wounds. We must ensure they are taken care of, physically, emotionally and financially. I am so pleased that the Department of Defense today launched a new operations center for these deserving heroes and their families to provide them with the necessary support as they transition back to active duty or into civilian life. This center will integrate the programs currently sponsored by various military and Government services, making it easier for these individuals to access the medical, counseling, educational, and financial services they need and deserve. Our injured and fallen heroes and their families must be a top priority. They deserve no less. Mr. President. I yield the floor.

Mrs. DOLE

Mrs. DOLE. Mr. President, today I want to take a moment to pay tribute to my friend and my colleague, Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell. Long before I arrived in the Senate, Ben had proven to be a trusted friend. In my early days as a Senator, our friendship was furthered as I sought wise counsel from veteran members like Ben. I found that his wisdom and insight on the rules and idiosyncrasies of Capitol Hill were invaluable to my adjustment here. And I must say, I just thoroughly enjoy his company. It goes without saying that having to say farewell to Ben certainly pulls at my heartstrings. I also sought Ben's aid when I introduced my first legislation to finally offer the Lumbee Indian Tribe Federal recognition. This significant bill would not have moved forward without the strong assistance of the Senator from Colorado. I was moved by Ben's interest in the bill, and to this day, I am touched that he remains invested in something so close to my heart. I am eternally grateful for the role he's played in moving Lumbee recognition one step closer to becoming a reality. Ben's commitment to the Native American community is unparalleled and is certainly to be commended. Ben's legacy will linger in the halls of the Senate long after he has shut the door to his offices. He leaves behind a record of service that one can only hope to emulate. Coloradoans have benefited from Ben's character, conscientiousness and compassion for years, and I know they will welcome him home with open arms. My warmest best wishes to my dear and treasured friend, Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell. There is no doubt that he will be sorely missed, not just by me, but by all of us who have been blessed to call him our colleague and our friend. don nickles Mr. President, it is an honor to pay tribute to a good friend and colleague who has had such a stellar and effective career in the United States Senate. I am so proud to have worked alongside a man of such character and knowledge, and I am certain that I speak for all my colleagues when I say his leadership in Congress will be sorely missed. Don Nickles' career is the classic American success story. After working his way through Oklahoma State University by starting a janitorial service, he was elected to the United States Senate in 1980 at the age of 31. While serving in Congress, his peers haveconsistently shown their confidence in his abilities, electing him to several leadership posts including senatorial committee Chair, chairman of the Republican Policy Committee, assistant majority leader and Budget Committee chairman. The day after Don announced he would not seek a fifth U.S. Senate term, the Oklahoma City Daily Oklahoman stated that his retirement ``will leave Oklahoma without its most powerful Washington advocate.'' How true that is. Over his two-decades-long career, the good that Don has done for his constituency is immeasurable. As a Senator, Don has amassed a tremendous record as an advocate for taxpayers. When our economy was in need of recovery because of a recession compounded by the events of September 11, Don was a leader in pushing the economic growth and tax relief package through Congress. Thanks to his efforts, today our economy is on the upswing with jobs being added, homes being built and small businesses expanding. Don gets great credit for his role in making that happen. I will always remember Don coming down to Eastern North Carolina to campaign with me at a tobacco warehouse. Asked to speak on stage in favor of the tobacco quota buyout, which of course he did not support, he graciously spoke about how hard I would work to get this done for the State. Don demonstrated his character that day, as he did on so many other days during his many outstanding years as a servant of the public. Don has always used the power of his office for good. I admire the way that he has stood for what he believes, no matter the challenge. He has brilliantly served the people of Oklahoma and all Americans with courage and conviction, a stellar example for those who follow in his footsteps. May God bless Senator Don Nickles and his family for many years to come.

Mrs. DOLE

Mrs. DOLE. Mr. President, It truly has been a privilege to serve in the Senate with my good friend Peter Fitzgerald. As many Illinois newspapers wrote when Peter announced he would not seek re-election, his decision to retire from the U.S. Senate is a true loss for the people of Illinois. I could not agree more. In the 1998 race for his Senate seat, Peter proved himself to be an exceptional campaigner, defeating a well-known incumbent in a State that had not elected a Republican in 20 years. And in that year, he was the only Republican challenger in the country to defeat an incumbent Democratic Senator. But Peter's vision, message and leadership resonated with Illinoisans, and they elected him by a 6 point margin. Arriving in Washington as the youngest member of the Senate, Peter hit the ground running as a strong voice for Illinois. He has been a steadfast advocate for taxpayers, consistently backing efforts to cut wasteful spending and reduce taxes. And he has been a proponent for consumer safety issues, focusing on areas such as improving car safety and child booster seats. I have the utmost respect for Peter. His courage and determination, even when faced with a daunting challenge, are remarkable. He has gone up against unscrupulous corporations and political corruption. He has had significant roles in investigating corporate accounting fraud, and Peter also has fought political corruption across party lines, leading the Chicago Tribune conclude that ``no one person has done more for political reform in Illinois than Peter Fitzgerald.'' I have been privileged to serve alongside Peter on the Senate Agriculture committee, working together on issues important to our strong agriculture States. As an advocate for increasing hunger awareness myself, I admire his work to make food stamp benefits for low-income families more easily accessible, including making program benefits available over the Internet. Peter and I share many similar views, but what is not widely known is that we look for the same qualities in our extraordinary staff members. In fact, managing the Fitzgerald office is chief of staff Greg Gross. Greg is a very talented member of his team, and I can attest to this because Greg also did such good work with me at the American Red Cross. I thank Greg for all his counsel during my first 2 years in the Senate. It is widely known that Peter Fitzgerald is a principled and independent leader. He has time after time proven that he will go against the flow, go against what is popular, because he is loyal to his own ideals and doing what he believes is right for the people and families he represents. Peter is a refreshing elected official; a devoted family man to his wife Nina and son Jake; and a diligent public servant. It goes without saying, people in Washington and people in Illinois will sorely miss Senator Peter Fitzgerald.

Mrs. DOLE

Mrs. DOLE. Mr. President, this past September marked a devastating hurricane season for many States. My home State of North Carolina was ravaged by not one, but four hurricanes this fall. Western North Carolina was particularly hit hard by Hurricanes Frances and Ivan, which destroyed homes, washed away roadways, and even took lives. Out of this ruin came the challenge of rebuilding and piecing together homes, lives, and communities. As I visited the devastation in Western North Carolina, I found encouragement in the selfless hearts of North Carolinians who went to great lengths to help those struggling through the wreckage left behind. There are many who came together during this crisis. I would especially like to thank the first responders who answered the call of duty. Our first responders are there for us in times of need, and they literally are on the front lines defending our homeland. On November 21, 2004, the Town of Clyde and the Town of Canton are honoring all those who were involved in the rescue and emergency operations following the devastation which occurred as a result of the hurricane season. November 21, 2004, has officially been declared by those towns as ``Haywood County Emergency Operations Appreciation Day.'' I would like to commend the efforts of these men and women who are members of the following departments who brought the community together after such devastation: Haywood County Sheriffs Department, North Carolina Highway Patrol, North Carolina Probation and Parole, North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement, North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles, Waynesville Police Department, Canton Police Department, Maggie Valley Police Department, Haywood County Emergency Management, Waynesville Fire Department, Cruso Volunteer Department, Clyde Fire Department, North Carolina National Guard, Canton Fire Department, North Canton Fire Department, Maggie Valley Fire Department, Lake Junaluska Fire Department, Crabtree Fire Department, Fines Creek Fire Department, Jonathan Creek Fire Department, Saunooke Fire Department, Center Pigeon Volunteer Fire Department, Lake Logan Fire Department, Enka/Candler Fire Department, Haywood County Rescue Squad, Haywod County EMS, Blue Ridge Paper Emergency Response Team and Clyde Police Department.

Mrs. DOLE

Mrs. DOLE. Mr. President, recently, the U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy made a series of far-reaching recommendations to help keep our oceans viable for future generations. While the Senate as a whole will not address these recommendations this Congress, I hope we may be able to work on these critical issues next year. In the meanwhile, my home State of North Carolina has already begun to make real the recommendations of the Commission. For instance, North Carolina public schools have begun fostering formal ocean education in K-12 schools, after the State mandated inclusion of ocean curricula in middle school. North Carolina is also leading the Nation in heeding the call for improved scientific understanding of the oceans. Of particular pride is the success of the Southeast Coastal Ocean Observing System, or SEACOOS, an umbrella organizations of institutions that is building a regional ocean monitoring and prediction system for the southeast States of North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Florida. Through the leadership of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, SEACOOS aggregates ocean information from federal and non-Federal sources for display and redistribution. This information system supports many uses, from search and rescue and hazardous spill response to providing information for recreational boaters and fishermen. This collaborative effort among dozens of institutions is a model of teamwork that will enable rapid development of a relevant, user-driven multi-purpose system. As part of the larger IOOS system, SEACOOS will improve the decision- making process for coastal managers, severe weather response teams, and so many others in whose decisions coastal conditions are a factor. Through its scientific contributions to data collection and analysis, SEACOOS will advance the Nation's needs in such broad areas as: marine operations, e.g. shipping and offshore operations like drilling and mining; natural hazard mitigation, e.g. storm forecasting, surge prediction, tsunami warning; climate change and its effects, e.g. interannual variability in water temperature, salinity, nutrients, storminess, plankton species and abundance, fish species and abundance; national security, e.g. toxin trajectories, detection of covert operations; public health, e.g. unsafe biological activity, rip currents, harmful algal blooms; ecosystem health, e.g. changes in food web structure; and sustainable use of marine resources, e.g. fish stock assessments. Among so many throughout the southeast who have made SEACOOS possible, I especially want to note and thank Harvey Seim, Associate Professor of Marine Science at UNC Chapel Hill. Professor Seim has been the visionary and leader in building this collaborative initiative. His dedication to advancing scientific knowledge that serves the public interest embodies the best spirit of higher education and the academic research enterprise that makes our nation great. In keeping with the recommendations of the commission, SEACOOS is a model worthy of replicating around the country. It is consistent with the Integrated Ocean Observing System that is called for in the commission report. IOOS is a national, interagency program that the commission recommends be fully funded and implemented to provide a multipurpose ocean information system for the Nation. Legislation to authorize IOOS has already been unanimously passed by the Senate, S. 1400 and companion bills are pending in the House. I look forward to continued congressional support and continued success as we increase our knowledge and understanding of our oceans.

Mrs. DOLE

Mrs. DOLE. Mr. President, during my years in public service I have learned a great deal about the severe effects of hunger in our Nation and around the world. My passion for this issue has significantly grown over time, so much so that I chose the topic as the focus of my maiden speech in the Senate. My hope is to shine a light on the devastating plague of malnourishment and severe hunger in our country and around the world. October 16 is World Food Day, which was established 25 years ago by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Since its inception, the day has been recognized annually in more than 150 countries and I am proud to share my support today. In truth, hunger affects millions of individuals across the globe. I know this to be true from my previous years of public service and my time at the Red Cross where I saw first hand the devastation of hunger. That is why I have made it a mission to fight this battle not only in our country, where I believe we can have a hunger free America, but around the world, where the issues of hunger so often become a useful strategy in developing relations with other governments and their people. As a leader in agricultural production, the United States has long recognized its responsibility to assist in alleviating world hunger through food donations, financial aid, and technical assistance. As many of you know, the United States, the world's leading provider of food assistance, began providing food aid in the 1920s. That is why I am involved in the McGovern-Dole program which builds off of this important and proud tradition. The McGovern-Dole program was named in honor of two former U.S. Senators, Senators George McGovern and Bob Dole, who worked tirelessly on behalf of U.S. school feeding, and more recently, for a global food for education program. The major objectives of the program are to reduce hunger and improve literacy and access to primary education, especially for girls. The focus is on low-income countries striving to ensure an education for all children. The World Food Program estimates that there are more than 300 million chronically hungry school-age children in poor countries. Of these, perhaps 170 million go off to school hungry. Another 130 million children--60 percent of them girls--do not attend school. An estimated 2.2 million beneficiaries received meals and take home rations under the fiscal year 2003 program, which is still ongoing in some countries. These resources, together with the $50 million Congress appropriated for the fiscal year 2004 program are reaching an additional 1.5 million beneficiaries. Given the program's success and high demand, the Bush administration requested an increase above the 2004 funding levels for fiscal year 2005, which I supported. After working with the Senate Appropriations Committee, I am proud to report that the bill voted out of committee includes a 50-percent increase above the fiscal year 2004 levels, bringing the fiscal year 2005 funding levels for McGovern-Dole to $100 million. Reducing hunger and improving literacy are global challenges, and meeting those challenges will require a global effort. We have experienced some marked successes in our efforts to involve other donors in helping achieve our goal of global school feeding and the McGovern-Dole International Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program has made a positive contribution to those efforts to combat hunger and illiteracy. It is my belief that this program will do more than just feed those in desperate need of food and improve the nutrition of children. It will bring hope and opportunity through education to some of the world's poorest children, improving their future and making the world a safer place for all of us. Mr. President, on World Food Day, I congratulate those who are fighting the battle to end hunger, and ask my fellow Americans to stand with me in this vital and important effort.

Mrs. DOLE

Mrs. DOLE. Yes.

Mrs. DOLE. Madam President, in our post-9/11 world, most Americans would agree that to defend our Nation and the freedoms we hold dear we must continue to succeed in the war on terror. As many of my colleagues and I have said, Iraq is the central battleground in the war on terror. The terrorists certainly know what is at stake, which is why they are pulling out all the stops to derail our efforts there. They know that a free and democratic Iraq is a serious blow to their interests. Collaboration of Iraq's former regime with terrorist groups and its funding of them have not been in question. Democratic cochairman of the 9/11 Commission, former Congressman Lee Hamilton, told reporters that there were connections between al-Qaida, and Saddam Hussein's government. Still, few naysayers have passed up the chance to contest links between Iraq and al-Qaida, links that have existed for more than a decade. Charges have been made that Iraq was not a haven for terrorists before the war, this statement being made just days after terrorist followers of Zarqawi, arguably the most dangerous terrorist in the world today, kidnapped and beheaded American civilians in Iraq. Reports strongly suggest that Zarqawi himself committed the atrocities. He and his men trained and fought with al-Qaida for years. Not only was Zarqawi in Baghdad prior to Saddam's ousting, but nearly two dozen members of al-Qaida were there as well. One al-Qaida associate even described the situation in Iraq as ``good'' and stated that Baghdad could be transited quickly. Then there is Abdul Rahman Yasin, another terrorist who was in Iraq long before the war. Yasin was a member of the al-Qaida cell that detonated the 1993 World Trade Center bomb. Documents discovered recently by U.S. forces in Saddam's hometown of Tikrit show that Iraq gave Yasin both a home and a salary until the eve of the war in Iraq. When a Newsweek reporter interviewed Yasin's Baghdad neighbors, they told the reporter that Yasin was ``working for the government.'' Is this not a clear example of Iraq not only having a relationship with al-Qaida but also harboring and rewarding a terrorist, a person who was directly involved in a terrorist attack on our soil? What about a link between Osama bin Laden, the al-Qaida leader himself, and Iraq? The 9/11 Commission Report states that Iraqi intelligence officials and al-Qaida members met in the spring and summer of 1998, and that an Iraqi official offered bin Laden a safe haven in Iraq. In its 1998 indictment of bin Laden, the Clinton administration asserted that al-Qaida and the Iraqi Government had an understanding that they would not work against each other, and on projects such as weapons development, they would work cooperatively. Is this not evidence of bin Laden and al-Qaida having a collaborative relationship with the Iraqi Government? In a recent interview with a French newspaper published August 29, 2004, Hudayfa Azzam, the son of bin Laden's mentor, Abdullah Azzam, said the Iraqi regime and al-Qaida had worked together closely before the war. He said: Saddam Hussein's regime welcomed them with open arms and young al-Qaida members entered Iraq in large numbers, setting up an organization to confront the occupation. Azzam said that al-Qaida members came into Iraq from Afghanistan, across mountains in Iran, with the help of Kurdish militants. And once in Iraq, Saddam strictly and directly controlled their activities, according to Azzam. Here is yet another example of al-Qaida members infiltrating Iraq and being given safe haven prior to the entrance of coalition forces. Let me be clear, despite recent political criticisms and media reports that have clouded or even misrepresented the facts, there is ample evidence of terrorists operating out of Iraq prior to the war, and there is compelling evidence of a longstanding link between al- Qaida and Iraq. The bipartisan Senate Intelligence Committee report informs us of this, as does the bipartisan 9/11 Commission Report. Again, let me emphasize, Iraq is the central battleground in the war on terror. Recently, before a joint meeting of Congress, Prime Minister Allawi spoke of the challenges and continued progress in his country. He offered eloquent words of gratitude for America liberating the Iraqi people. I close today with a simple, but significant, statement that he made without much notice or fanfare. In talking about Iraq he said: We are fighting for freedom and democracy--ours and yours. I yield the floor.

Mrs. DOLE

Mrs. DOLE. Mr. President, I would like to reflect for a moment and explain why we should take a moment to honor Colonel Robert Morgan, a man of distinguished valor. Not only was he part of our Greatest Generation, he was a true hero, aptly defined as one who inspires through manners and actions, who leads through personal example and accomplishments requiring bravery, skill, and determination. As commander of the famed Memphis Belle during World War II, and at a time when German anti-aircraft fire brought down 8 in 10 bombers, Colonel Morgan repeatedly risked everything for his country. In this extremely dangerous environment he piloted the first heavy bomber to complete 25 combat missions in the European Theater, an unprecedented achievement and the magic number to be sent home. Colonel Morgan's exceptional courage did not end in the European Theater. He continued his valiant service to his country in the Pacific Theater and again made history when his B-29 named ``Dauntless Dotty'' was chosen to lead the first B- 29 raid on Tokyo. A native of Asheville, North Carolina, Colonel Morgan represented the American Spirit--courage in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.

Mrs. DOLE

Mrs. DOLE. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Committee on Finance be authorized to meet during the session on Friday, October 8, 2004, at 10 a.m., in 215 Dirksen Senate Office Building, to consider the nomination of Anna Escobedo Cabral to be United States Treasurer, U.S. Department of the Treasury.

Mrs. DOLE. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Joint Economic Committee be authorized to conduct a hearing in Room 628 of the Dirksen Senate Office Building, Friday, October 8, 2004, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Mrs. DOLE

Mrs. DOLE. Mr. President, so many States have been devastated this hurricane season. My own home State of North Carolina has been ravaged by the effects of not one, but four hurricanes in the last few weeks. Most recently, western North Carolina suffered extensive damage caused by the torrential wind and rain of Hurricane Ivan. Initial estimates from the storm's destruction in Buncombe County alone are already topping $100 million. Sadly, this same county had already projected that exact amount in damages following Hurricane Frances. Counties in western North Carolina had barely begun to recover from the flooding of Frances before Ivan roared through town late last week. The death toll from the storm, so far, is 10 people. In the town of Henderson, a man and his wife were sleeping soundly when a huge tree crashed through their house into their bedroom. The husband was pinned beneath the fallen tree, which ultimately took his life as the home had to be stabilized before the tree could be removed. In the Peeks Creek community in southern Macon County, a landslide sent homes crashing against each other, killing at least four people, including an unborn child whose mother was forced to have a leg amputated and remains in critical condition. Houses have literally been washed away, and some left standing have been split in two by fallen trees. Main roads and neighborhood streets have been shut down from landslides and pavements giving way. Well over 200,000 residents were left without power over the weekend. Needless to say, it will take time before western North Carolina can return to a sense of normalcy. I have been down to the devastated areas twice over the past two weeks. While my heart broke at the sight of destroyed homes and washed out roadways, my hopes were buoyed by the goodness of neighbor helping neighbor. It was an image played out all over the towns I visited. Local officials and first responders, some from as far as Raleigh and Charlotte, have done--and continue to do--a phenomenal job in the midst of challenging circumstances. I think of the heroic efforts of families like Aileen and Glenn Holland. They are not strangers to offering aide after a natural disaster. Long time volunteers through the North Carolina Baptists Men Disaster Relief, they have traveled all over the United States. But last weekend, they didn't have to travel anywhere. The destruction came right to their front door. Fifteen homes were annihilated in Macon County, but the Holland's was left standing. When they heard the screams of neighbors, Aileen and Glenn began taking people in. They even found a toddler covered in mud crying from fear. The Hollands remained in their home, providing shelter for friends and family until fellow volunteers from the Baptist Men Disaster Relief arrived on the scene. I also applaud the efforts of local churches, nonprofits, and groups such as the Red Cross for the helping hands they're extending all over western North Carolina. I had the chance to stop in and thank the volunteers at the Red Cross Shelter in Henderson County. I was touched to see the families finding refuge and reassurance there. These are the memories I will keep with me as I think back on the far-reaching effects from this hurricane season. Yes, there is destruction. Yes, there is great pain. But I find encouragement in the selfless hearts of North Carolinians who are going to great lengths to help those struggling through the wreckage left behind. It is my desire that we, too, can add to that goodwill and deliver the financial aide these areas need to get back on their feet. Fifteen Western North Carolina counties have been declared federal disaster areas, including Buncombe, Haywood, Henderson and Macon. This designation means that homeowners and businesses are eligible for assistance in the form of loans or grants from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, FEMA or the Small Business Administration. There is a $60 million request for North Carolina included in the President's emergency budget. We're obviously going to need much more. I would encourage Congress to expedite this aid to those who need it most. I can only hope the end of this devastating hurricane season comes quickly. The autumn season makes western North Carolina one of the most beautiful places on earth--and the good folks from the mountains are well suited to give some southern hospitality to visitors from around the country. It is important that we get the word out that this magnificent part of the country is open for business during its prime tourism season. My thoughts and my prayers are with every person touched by these hurricanes, not only North Carolina but throughout the southeast and east coast. May God bless each and every one of them. Mr. President, I yield the floor.

Mrs. DOLE

Mrs. DOLE. Mr. President, I would like to reflect for a moment and explain why we should take a moment to honor Colonel Robert Morgan, a man of distinguished valor. Not only was he part of our Greatest Generation, he was a true hero, aptly defined as one who inspires through manners and actions, who leads through personal example and accomplishments requiring bravery, skill, and determination. As commander of the famed ``Memphis Belle'' during World War II, and at a time when German anti-aircraft fire brought down 8 in 10 bombers, Colonel Morgan repeatedly risked everything for his country. In this extremely dangerous environment he piloted the first heavy bomber to complete 25 combat missions in the European Theater, an unprecedented achievement and the magic number to be sent home. Colonel Morgan's exceptional courage did not end in the European Theater. He continued his valiant service to his country in the Pacific Theater and again made history when his B-29 named ``Dauntless Dotty'' was chosen to lead the first B-29 raid on Tokyo. A native of Asheville, NC, Colonel Morgan represented the American Spirit--courage in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.

Mrs. DOLE

Mrs. DOLE. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be dispensed with.

Mrs. DOLE. Mr. President, 20 years ago this month, as Transportation Secretary, raising the drinking age to 21 across our Nation was a measure I was confident in supporting. I was confident it would prevent crippling and disabling injuries and save thousands of lives. Statistics of teens driving across State borders, ``blood borders,'' into a neighboring State with a lower drinking age, then driving back under the influence of alcohol, convinced me of the dire need to eliminate the differences between State laws. Senator Frank Lautenberg, Senator Richard Lugar, and former Senator Jack Danforth were instrumental in the passage of age 21 legislation. On July 17, 1984, when President Reagan signed this law in a Rose Garden ceremony, he said: We know that drinking, plus driving, spells death and disaster. . . . And I know there's one . . . simple measure that will save thousands of young lives . . . if we raise the drinking age. And it has. Twenty thousand lives have been saved in 20 years. The numbers represent real people, tragedies averted, family members and friends who did not have to suffer the loss of a loved one in an alcohol-related automobile accident. My family had to suffer such a loss. My uncle, just out of college, just about to be married, was hit head on and killed by a drunk driver. This month also marks the 20th anniversary of another revolution in highway safety. On July 11, 1984, the same week President Reagan signed the age 21 law, the Department of Transportation enacted rule 208 with the goal of saving as many lives as possible as quickly as possible. This successfully resolved the 17-year policy dispute that spanned four administrations. Rule 208 resulted in the production of airbags and the passage of State safety belt laws. It recognized the role of the States in automotive safety. No State, in July 1984, had passed a safety belt law, not a single State. Usage was only 13 percent. Airbags were virtually nonexistent. In fact, I had to look all over to find a car with an airbag to place on the White House lawn for President Reagan and the Cabinet to examine. Consumer acceptance was low. Many people thought airbags would go off just crossing the railroad tracks. Most of us get into a car and automatically fasten our safety belts today. We barely notice that the vehicle has an airbag. Today, 49 States have belt laws. National belt usage is 79 percent and climbing. There are more than 149 million airbag-equipped vehicles on the road. As of this year, all cars, light trucks, and minivans come equipped with front seat airbags. The National Safety Council reports that since 1984, 190,000 lives have been saved through this safety trifecta: the 21 drinking age, State safety belt laws, and airbags. They totally changed the climate of highway safety in America. My hat's off to the tremendous team I had at the Transportation Department--Jim Burnley, Diane Steed, Phil Haseltine, Erika Jones, Jenna Dorn, Bob Davis--and many others, like Chuck Hurley of the National Safety Council and the Mothers Against Drunk Driving. According to the National Safety Council, since 1984, 157,500 lives have been saved by safety belts. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that safety belt use has resulted in savings to the U.S. economy of $50 billion in medical care, lost productivity, and other injury-related costs. NHTSA also reports that more than 14,500 lives have been saved by airbags. The record speaks for itself; however, work remains to be done. I am pleased the highway bill recently passed in the Senate contains numerous safety provisions. In particular, I commend my colleague, Senator John Warner, for introducing incentives for States to enact primary safety belt laws. Mothers Against Drunk Driving has voiced strong support for primary belt laws, allowing a law enforcement officer to write a citation when observing an unbelted driver or passenger. Secondary enforcement allows the citation only after stopping a vehicle for some other reason. My home State of North Carolina was one of the first to enact primary belt laws in 1985. Our usage rate last year was 86 percent. But as of May 2004, only 20 States, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia have primary laws. According to NHTSA, safety belt usage is much higher on average in States with primary enforcement laws. Two decades after the safety trifecta, incentives for State safety belt laws, airbags, and 21 drinking age are reported by the National Safety Council to have saved 190,000 lives. This is just one example where we continue to strive for improvement, strive to prevent injuries, and strive to save lives. united states-morocco free trade agreement

Mrs. DOLE

Mrs. DOLE. Mr. President, significant progress has been made toward achievement of a tobacco quota buyout which our farm families and rural communities in North Carolina and other tobacco-producing States so desperately need. A few weeks ago, thanks to the commitment and hard work, in particular, of Richard Burr and Mike McIntyre from the North Carolina delegation as well as Chairman Thomas and House leadership, a tobacco buyout passed the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives. Today, we have the historic opportunity to get a tobacco buyout across the floor of the U.S. Senate. I thank Senator McConnell for his legislation and his leadership in bringing us to this point. Why should we go along with the tobacco buyout on the FSC/ETI bill? Why is a buyout necessary? Because the status quo is simply not an option. If nothing happens this year, according to noted agricultural economist Blake Brown, tobacco families and farmers face a 33-percent cut in quotas for the 2005 crop year. Let's take a look at how we got where we are today. Look at this chart. By 1996, tobacco farmers had experienced 7 straight years of a stable and significant supply of quota. In 1997, quota increased 12 percent, leading many farmers to expand their operations. Barns were bought to cure more tobacco, equipment was bought to replace that which was worn out, and land and quota was bought to make their operations more efficient. Significant amounts of money were borrowed to make these investments. Since 1997, quota has dropped almost 60 percent. Farmers still have outstanding loans at the bank to pay for quota they no longer have. To put this in layman's language, this type of cut in quota is equivalent to cutting your paycheck more than half while you are still paying the bank for an asset you no longer own. The current devastation our farm families and their rural communities face is certainly not of their making. The current tobacco program was never designed to accommodate the significant changes that have engulfed this industry. It is an outdated New Deal program that is discouraging purchases of American tobacco by domestic and foreign buyers because it has made the United States uncompetitive on the world market. Foreign buyers who once looked to the U.S. market are now purchasing tobacco from other countries and bypassing the U.S. market altogether for their supply. The numbers do not lie: The U.S. now accounts for only 7 percent of all flue-cured tobacco production in the world. Let me be clear: All we are doing under current policy is allowing countries such as Brazil and China to reap the economic benefits of worldwide tobacco production. We are not reducing overall tobacco production--we are simply allowing it to be siphoned off by other countries. Let me bring a little more perspective to the buyout of quota. People in North Carolina and other tobacco-growing States invested in tobacco quota since the 1930's. The Government created this asset--allowing it to be bought and sold. As a result, the value of quota makes up a substantial portion of many farmers' balance sheets. The value of quota is recognized by county governments; it is taxed just like land and other assets. In fact, tobacco quota is even subject to the inheritance tax. It is estimated that more than 60 percent of the tobacco farmers today will exit the business entirely if a tobacco buyout is achieved. Most are at retirement age, just hanging on a little while longer in hopes of being able to pay off their debts. They have hung on and continued to produce in hopes that things would get better, knowing that if they got out now they would have to sell their farm and liquidate other assets to settle up with their lenders. Even with a buyout, many will still be short. Every week my office continues to receive numerous calls from tobacco farm families in desperation. There is a deep feeling of helplessness. And all they can do is get on their knees and pray that those of us who have been given the privilege of serving in Congress will act--and act soon. A tobacco quota buyout is sorely needed. It will allow those who want to pay off their debts, and who want to retire, the opportunity to do so with dignity. The opportunity to know that all they have worked for has not been in vain. It will allow the widow whose sole source of retirement income is from quota rent and social security the opportunity to get a fair return in exchange for the taking of her quota. If nothing happens this year, these farmers will be forced to give up all that they have. After 6 years of loaning on collateral, there is nothing left for the banks to do except foreclose, especially with another 33 percent cut in quota for the 2005 crop year on the horizon. There will be no holding out for just a while longer. This may sound like rhetoric to some, but it is the precise truth for countless thousands of farm families. I have been there to see it and I could not be more dead serious about this. Status quo is simply not an option. It is absolutely critical that this legislation is achieved this year, and I am grateful for the progress that has been made to get this bill to conference. I look forward to working with my colleagues to ensure that this much needed legislation becomes reality. It is either now--or never. These rural citizens--the very ones who have helped make this country great--are barely hanging on for their very survival. And it is not just them. It is the retailers, equipment dealers, chemical and fertilizer dealers and a whole array of small local businesses. These are the very small businesses that create the majority of new jobs in tobacco-producing States--and jobs that are much needed. With enactment of a tobacco buyout, rural communities will be able to grow back the jobs that have since left our borders and restore hope to countless families who have labored all of their lives under the sun to feed and clothe America and the world. My State has thrived on traditional industries such as textiles, furniture and tobacco. In recent years, thousands upon thousands of jobs have been lost--leaving rural economies devastated and creating pockets of poverty in many of North Carolina's counties. And now, as tobacco farmers and rural communities reach for a life- line, we have the opportunity to help them. Rather than conceding tobacco production to countries such as China, rather than allowing foreclosures to thousands of farmers, rather than allowing the negative economic ripple effect to be felt throughout rural southeastern America, let us do the right thing for our farmers and rural communities. It is way past the time for us to take action, and getting this bill to conference is a very important and critical step. I yield the floor.