Tim Johnson

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Madam President, today I pay tribute to the 125th anniversary of the founding of the community of Leola, SD. I am proud to honor the people of Leola on this memorable occasion, and to extend my congratulations to them. Settlers founded Leola in 1884 as a homestead site and named it after the daughter of Captain E.D. Haynes. The community quickly grew, getting its first newspaper, The Leola Blade, in 1885. Known as the ``Rhubarb Capital of the World'', Leola holds a biannual festival to celebrate and sample the various uses of this unique fruit. The town also has a Threshing Bee in September of every year to honor their forefathers' way of life with live demonstrations of antique threshing machines and an antique tractor show. Located near the Ordway Prairie Memorial Preserve, Leola is also an excellent place for nature and history lovers to experience beautiful South Dakota prairie and its wildlife as the settlers did so many years ago. The seat of rural McPherson County is a close-knit community infused with hospitality, beauty, and an exceptional quality of life. Small communities like Leola are the epitome of what makes South Dakota great, and I am proud to represent this thriving town.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Madam President, today I pay tribute to the 125th anniversary of the founding of the community of Clear Lake, SD. This county seat was founded when the Burlington, Cedar Rapids and Northern Railroad went through the area. The first depot was a box car, with other businesses quickly being erected including a general store, a butcher, and a blacksmith. Clear Lake also had a notable system to alert the town to fires, first with a triangle, then a bronze bell that is displayed in the town today. Clear Lake is noted for its prosperous farmland and picturesque lake. This thriving town celebrated their achievement of 125 years with a weekend celebration filled with music, food and contests. Its population continues to grow as the citizens find new ways to hold onto their heritage while looking to the future. I am proud to represent Clear Lake, and would like to congratulate them on their historic anniversary.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, today I recognize the community of Blunt, SD, on reaching the 125th anniversary of its founding. Blunt is a rural community infused with hospitality, beauty, and an exceptional quality of life. The city of Blunt was settled in 1884 and named after the chief engineer of the Chicago and Northwestern railway, Mr. John E. Blunt. Few early railroad towns in South Dakota were able to boast of the wide variety of early establishments, including 6 hotels, 12 grocers, 9 lumber yards, 5 saloons, and 4 bakeries. Today, Blunt has come a long way from its days as a railroad supply center. The town still boasts a variety of businesses, including those in both the service and manufacturing sectors. The Graham Mentor Museum and the REA building are just two examples of continuous efforts to bring the community closer. The people of Blunt celebrate this momentous occasion on the weekend of June 26-28, 2009. South Dakota's small communities are the bedrock of our economy and vital to the future of our State. It is especially because of our small communities, and the feelings of loyalty and familiarity that they engender, that I am proud to call South Dakota home. Towns like Blunt and its citizens are no different and truly know what it means to be South Dakotan. One hundred and twenty-five years after its founding, Blunt remains a vital community and a great asset to the wonderful State of South Dakota. I am proud to honor Blunt on this historic milestone.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, today I pay tribute to the 125th anniversary of the founding of the community of Seneca, South Dakota. After 125 years, this agrarian community will have the chance to reflect on both its industrious history as well as the potential of its future. Beginning with a sod shanty that served as a stopping post as well as the local post office, Seneca began to thrive after the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad pushed west and created the town in 1886. After drawing the name Seneca from a hat, the town immediately began to boom with local businesses being brought in from the surrounding towns. Seneca transitioned from a cattle range to a farming community, with progressive modern conveniences including a notable water system. This strong town has bound together throughout the years to accomplish whatever came their way. From sending engraved gold rings with their soldiers to World War I in 1917, to building a community center for one thousand dollars in 1937, the citizens of Seneca support their town and its people. This spirit of unity has sustained Seneca through one hundred and twenty-five years of changes and will support them as they move forward. I congratulate the people of Seneca on reaching this historic anniversary.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, today I recognize the community of Lebanon, SD, on reaching the 125th anniversary of its founding. This historic anniversary gives the community the chance to reflect on their strong history as well as their optimistic future. Lebanon was founded by farmers in 1883. Small businesses quickly sprung up in the town and continued to grow for 50 years. In 1926, they built an outdoor swimming pool, which is the oldest of its type today. Lebanon was given two cedar trees by the government of the Country of Lebanon, one of which still lives today. To celebrate the town's achievement, there will be a weekend of festivities from June 20-21, 2009, with a parade, tractor pull, and various entertainers. While the population of Lebanon has declined, the spirit of the town maintains their strong work ethic and united spirit. Small towns like Lebanon are the backbone of South Dakota, and the people of this community make me proud to represent them.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, today I pay tribute to the 150th anniversary of the founding of the community of Elk Point, SD. After 150 years, this historic community will have a chance to reflect on its past accomplishments and its future goals, and I congratulate this thriving community for all it has done. Elk Point's colorful history begins with the Lewis & Clark expedition of 1804 when the explorers camped in this area in 1804 and again in 1806. Eli Wixson built a cabin in 1859, becoming the first citizen of Elk Point. Today, Elk Point's location makes it an ideal location for a variety of businesses with two Interstate 29 exits, a railway hub with service in three directions, and close proximity to the Missouri River for both economic and entertainment purposes. This thriving town is the county seat of Union County, the ninth fastest growing county in the Unites States in terms of family income. Elk Point exemplifies a traditional South Dakota community with its close-knit community with a high quality of life. The citizens are independent and welcoming, and the educational system is advanced with modern technology and advanced placement classes. The citizens of Elk Point will be celebrating their rich heritage June 26-28, 2009 with an All-Class Reunion, Amy's Race for breast cancer research, and various games and entertainment. I congratulate the citizens of Elk Point on their accomplishments over the last 150 years and look forward to seeing their future endeavors.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, today I rise in order to pay tribute to the community of McLaughlin on reaching its 100th year. This strong town was founded as a railroad community for refueling and replenishment, as well as a center for Indian trade. In celebration of their centennial, there will be a tractor pull, parade, and entertainment throughout the weekend of June 18-21, 2009. The citizens created a thriving business community soon after it was settled. Large cattle operations were run through the area and McLaughlin became a center for many activities, including trade with residents, both Indian and non-Indian. In 1889, the Standing Rock Reservation was formed, with McLaughlin at the center of the reservation on the South Dakota side. The town was named after MAJ James McLaughlin, a superintendent of Standing Rock, and the town was officially incorporated October 7, 1909. This community now has a grain elevator complex as well as a livestock auction market in town and continues as a traditional hub for its residents. The home of the Mighty Midgets has long been successful, both in the classroom and athletics. As they reach this monumental anniversary, McLaughlin will have the opportunity to reflect on its diverse and enriched past as well as the opportunities for its future. This community has been noted for its shared history and I congratulate them on reaching their centennial.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, today I recognize the community of Revillo, SD, on reaching the 125th anniversary of its founding. Revillo is a warm community, filled with historical beauty and a strong sense of hospitality. The town of Revillo was founded on the homestead of John Hillstrom in 1884 when the Minneapolis and St. Louis Railway entered the area. The Revillo flour mill was built in 1904, where farmers would bring their wheat crop to have it made into Monogram flour to meet their annual needs. In the years before World War I, Revillo was booming with businesses, including two implement dealers, a drug store, two banks, three elevators, and an Opera House. Today, Revillo is maintaining its history with four churches in town, many members having a lineal connection to those who first established the churches. This thriving community is also looking forward with a modern school and lighted athletic field, the Revillo Farmers Co-op elevator, and a maintainer for the Grant County highway department. The people of Revillo are celebrating their heritage and their accomplishments June 20-21, 2009. One hundred and twenty-five years after its founding, Revillo holds its history close while continually looking to the future, demonstrating what is great about South Dakota, and why I am proud to call this great State home.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, today I recognize Immanuel Lutheran Church of Canova, SD, on reaching the 125th anniversary of its founding. This historic church has been a cornerstone of both the community and the Synod. Immanuel Lutheran Church has seen its share of struggles, but has always grown stronger from them. Today, I pay tribute to both the anniversary of the church and to the members who have kept its traditions of service and faith alive for 150 years. The church was founded in 1884 with Rev. J. Reyhout as its pastor. The members, mainly German immigrants, joined the Ohio Synod and built the first church in 1891. The current church was completed in 1914. Known as the ``German Church'' or ``German Lutheran'', the congregation's welcome spirit for recent immigrants led to services being held in German. In 1940, they transitioned to every other week in English and German. In 1952, German services were discontinued. Immanuel joined the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America in 1988 on its founding. Although changes have been coming to this community since its founding, Immanuel Lutheran Church has held steady to the core values that it was founded on. With outreach to the prison, food shelters, and the community, these members have maintained the initial ideals of service and devotion. I congratulate this congregation on reaching this monumental anniversary, and look forward to the future as they continue their traditions.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, today I wish to pay tribute to the 125th anniversary of the founding of Mound City, SD. This rural community is the seat of Campbell County in northern South Dakota. This town was built on hard work and a spirit of community 125 years ago, and those same values sustain it today. Edward C. and his father E.H. McIntosh were the first settlers, arriving in the area on June 10, 1884. They called the town Mound City because of the small hills to the north. Soon after, an elegant hotel and post office were constructed. The first newspaper, the Mound City Journal, was started in 1886. Mound City also had a flour mill, built in 1893 by contributions by the town's citizens. After it burned down the first night of operations, the town rallied and raised enough money to again build the mill. This perseverance and dedication illustrates what has gotten Mound City to this monumental anniversary, and I am proud to recognize them on their achievements. The citizens of this town are dedicated and hard working, demonstrating what a great State South Dakota is.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, today I wish to pay tribute to the community of Stockholm on reaching its 125th year. The people who make up this community are proud of their heritage and will be celebrating both their resilient history and their promising future June 13 to 14, 2009. This strong rural community in northeast South Dakota was primarily founded by Scandinavian homesteaders who named the town after Stockholm, Sweden. Also in this area was Brown Earth, an Indian settlement of 52 families. These communities were closely intertwined and shared churches and a post office. In 1896, the town joined together to construct a creamery, financed at $25 a share. In celebration of reaching this historic milestone, the town has painted 24 Dala Hasten, traditional Swedish wooden horses. There will also be a parade, races, and musical events to commemorate Stockholm's notable occasion. The welcoming spirit of Stockholm's citizens helped sculpt this town's unique history, and I am confident that this strength of character will help them continue through the coming years. I am proud to represent this community, and I commend this town on reaching this historic anniversary.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Madam President, today I rise to recognize Dr. Tom Dean of Wessington Springs, SD, who has been named the National Rural Health Association's 2009 Practitioner of the Year and wish to congratulate him on this well-deserved honor. Dr. Dean has spent the majority of his 30 years in practice as a family physician in Wessington Springs, SD, and has served as a member of the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission since 2007. After completing his medical education and training out of the State, Dr. Dean returned to his native Wessington Springs, SD, as a National Health Service Corps physician. Dr. Dean dedicated his professional career to delivering health care to his neighbors in rural South Dakota. He is well known in his community for the personal attention he gives to his patients and for his understanding of the value of the patient-doctor relationship. Having spent most of his career helping the residents of Wessington Springs stay healthy, Dr. Dean has come to understand the particular challenges of rural health care delivery and the impact of health policies on rural America. Dr. Dean is greatly involved with the National Rural Health Association, an organization whose mission is to improve the health and well-being of rural Americans and to provide leadership on rural health issues. In addition to his practice and MedPAC work, Dr. Dean is chief of staff at Avera Weskota Memorial Medical Center, and serves on the board of directors of the Bush Foundation Medical Fellowship and the South Dakota Academy of Family Physicians. He is a past president of the National Rural Health Association, recipient of numerous awards and honors, and his research is published in many medical journals. Through his practice and research, Dr. Dean has demonstrated his commitment to improving the quality of care provided to the one-fifth of Americans who live in rural areas. I applaud Dr. Dean's commitment to providing quality health care to his patients. His contribution to shaping health care policy has added a valuable and powerful voice for both rural health care providers and patients.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, today I recognize and congratulate the outstanding career of Cecil Harris, decorated Navy pilot. For his heroic actions in World War II, Cecil received the Navy Cross, Silver Star, Distinguished Flying Cross, and the Air Medal. His bravery is again being honored in with the dedication of the Cecil E. Harris Highway in northeast South Dakota. This Cresbard native was enrolled in the Northern State Teachers College when he enlisted in the Navy in March 1941 and was sent to northern Africa. After the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor nine months later, Cecil's remarkable flying abilities were noted and he was moved to the Pacific to combat the Kamikaze attacks. Cecil shot down 24 enemy warplanes in 81 days while never taking a single bullet on his own plane, making him the second-ranking World War II Naval Ace. After the war, Cecil returned home to become a teacher and coach. In 1951, he was called to Tennessee to train pilots for the Korean war. He was then promoted to captain and sent to the Pentagon. He retired in June 1967 after serving 27 years in the Navy. He passed away in 1981 and is buried in Arlington Cemetery. This stretch of Highway 20 will bear the name of a dedicated and decorated war hero. Cecil Harris exemplified South Dakota values in his unwavering commitment to his country, and I commend the South Dakota Department of Transportation for honoring this outstanding individual.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Madam President, I wish today to recognize Herbert Bruce Cleveland of Rapid City, SD, on the occasion of his 50th anniversary of ordination in the Lutheran ministry. Herb has developed a distinguished career in the ministry, both as a local pastor ministering to the needs of South Dakotans dating back to the 1950s and on a national level, having been appointed to numerous capacities in the Department of Veterans Affairs by three Presidents. Born in North Dakota and a graduate of the University of North Dakota and University of Michigan, Herb joined the U.S. Army in October 1952 and completed various stateside and international duty assignments. Shortly after becoming ordained as a Lutheran pastor, Herb came to western South Dakota in 1959 and immediately developed a close working relationship with the families in the Homestake Gold Mine in Lead. After ministering to the needs of hospitalized parishioners at the nearby veterans hospital at Fort Meade, he served veterans at the VA Hospital in a full-time capacity in the early 1960s, a relationship with veterans that continues today. Herb has witnessed the impacts of war on soldiers and their families, and he has met these challenges with professionalism, commitment, and dedication. He led local and national efforts to develop a system to address post traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, and psycho-social issues. He established the first substance abuse treatment center at the Fort Meade VA Chapel. He developed a strong bond with Native American veterans, working to add a Lakota chaplain to the VA staff and the initiation of Lakota worship services and events such as pow-wows and sweat lodge experiences. He worked tirelessly to address the evolving needs of veterans and their families while continuing a strong presence in Black Hills communities, assisting in youth and community events and fundraisers. In 1983, the Veterans' Administration established new leadership in the chaplains service in Washington, DC, and summoned Herb, who had been working with South Dakota veterans for 20 years, to become the new Deputy Chief of Chaplains. In this position, he served as Human Resource Director and Educational Development Director and became increasingly involved in the ecumenical relations with all the faiths that were held by members of the Armed Forces. He recruited minority chaplains to serve the increasing number of minorities serving in the Armed Forces and veterans in the VA system. He developed numerous institutes of training to address the needs of disabled veterans and worked to educate and identify the unique issues impacting young veterans, older veterans, and women veterans. Until his term in Washington, the chaplaincy had been exclusively male, and Herb recruited a number of women chaplains to serve the growing numbers of women veterans. He helped create the Chaplains School, which among its many missions was providing professional training to women chaplains. President Reagan appointed Herb as Chief of Chaplains in 1988, becoming the first Lutheran and first clergy member from South Dakota named to such a capacity. He served in this position during President George Herbert Walker Bush's Presidential term. As national VA chaplain, Herb and his wife Connie participated in the international exchange of choral and symphonic music, which helped foster better cultural and artistic understanding among numerous nations. Herb would oversee the largest single trip of a choir of 150 voices that accompanied the national VA symphony that performed with the Russian Army Chorus in Moscow and St. Petersburg on the first anniversary of freedom. Chaplain Cleveland was then appointed by President Bill Clinton as Director of Ethics for Health Care Management, where he would continue to address the health and faith challenge and issues affecting our Nation's veterans. After a decade of valued service in Washington, DC, Chaplain Cleveland and his wife returned to South Dakota in retirement. As a volunteer, Herb continues to service funerals, memorial services, weddings, and reunions. During 3 years of peak deployment to Iraq and Afghanistan, Herb served as chaplain to the National Guard and Army Reserve cadets at the Fort Meade officers training facility. Also in retirement, he has established mission tours to Southeast Asia with trips to China, Korea, Japan, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Myanmar. These people-to-people visits emphasize and foster understanding of different cultures. He was recognized by the president of Payap University in Thailand with the Distinguished Alumni Award for his missionary work. This award is among numerous important recognitions for Chaplain Cleveland. These honors include the Point of Light Award from President George H. W. Bush for his work with homeless veterans; the Exceptional Service Award from the VA Secretary for service to the Nation's veterans; the National Black Chaplains of America Award for Exceptional Service to America's Veterans, and he was nominated by Coretta Scott King to serve on the National Steering Committee for Chaplains at the Martin Luther King, Jr., Center in Atlanta in 1986. He also received the ELCA Award for Exceptional Service while serving the Lutheran Church and the Chaplaincy in America. His most recent honor was notification of induction into the South Dakota Hall of Fame with ceremonies this September. Over the years, Chaplain Cleveland has maintained a steadfast commitment to his faith and God and has continued to fulfill a lifelong mission to address the emotional and spiritual needs of veterans and their families. He remains firmly rooted in his family and his community and understands the importance of service. I consider myself very fortunate and blessed to have known and worked with him in various endeavors during my years in Congress. I want to wish Chaplain Cleveland a heartfelt congratulations on the occasion of his 50 years of service in the Lutheran ministry and for his many years of great service to veterans, their families, and to this Nation. I also wish him many more years of continued service in his many endeavors in the Black Hills region.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Madam President, I wish to speak today to honor the 90th birthday earlier this month of my friend, Chief David Bald Eagle of Takini, on the Cheyenne River Reservation in South Dakota. Chief Bald Eagle was born on April 8, 1919, on the west banks of Cherry Creek in west central South Dakota. He is the grandson of Chief White Bull who fought Custer's 7th Cavalry in the Battle of Greasy Grass Creek, better known as the Battle of the Little Big Horn. Having a warrior spirit in his blood, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and was just being discharged at the beginning of World War II. He reenlisted, and served as a sergeant with the 82nd Airborne Division. In 1944, he was among those brave soldiers who jumped from planes on D-day as a U.S. Army paratrooper. Chief Bald Eagle was shot four times that day, and his story is recounted in ``Blue Stars: A Selection of Stories from South Dakota's World War II Veterans'' compiled by Greg Latza. Upon return, Chief Bald Eagle went on to travel as a performer and has acted in at least 18 movies to date. While in Hollywood, Chief Bald Eagle worked alongside some of the most recognizable actors and actresses of that time: Clark Gable, John Wayne, and Marilyn Monroe. All the while he managed to stay connected to his home. For more than 60 years, Chief Bald Eagle has annually participated in the Days of '76 parade and rodeo in Deadwood, SD, providing the many thousands of people who attend the annual event a level of understanding and education about the Native American culture and heritage and the great impact of the Lakota/Dakota/Nakota people on the region. He is recognized as an honorary member of the Days of '76 Committee because of his contributions to their events. In 2008, he was honored by the South Dakota State Legislature with a House Commemoration honoring his life, character, and achievements. Madam President, Chief David Bald Eagle is a dear friend, and I appreciate being among those special people that he keeps in his prayers. I will never forget that he gave me my Lakota name several years ago in a special ceremony, ``Wacante Ognake,'' which means holds the people in his heart--a name I cherish and will never forget its importance.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I wish to honor one of the most dedicated advocates for American Indian tribes in my State of South Dakota and throughout the United States. On Sunday, April 19, 2009, Tim Wapato was called home. Tim has long served many issues important to Indian Country throughout his life and I have included his obituary below and ask that it be printed in the Record. An enrolled member of the Colville Confederated Tribe in Eastern Washington, he made his home in Rapid City, SD. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, including his wife, my friend, Gay Kingman-Wapato, and their family. He will be greatly missed by everyone he touched on his journey through this world. The information follows: Sherman Timothy Wapato, 73, entered the Spirit World at his home in Rapid City, SD on Sunday, April 19, 2009 as a result of heart failure. He was an enrolled Member of the Colville Confederated Tribe in Eastern Washington. Sherman Timothy Wapato was the second child of six children born to Paul and Elizabeth Wapato. During Tim's early years of schooling, the Family moved frequently, as Paul Wapato was an Evangelist Minister. Tim went to nine different elementary schools prior to settling down in the Methow Valley (Washington) for Jr. High and High School. The ``Wapato Boys'' were the only Indians attending Winthrop, H.S. and were admired for their abilities in school and in sports. Tim graduated High School in 1953 in Winthrop, WA, where he excelled in sports and government. Tim was a popular student and was well known for his basketball prowess, good humor and leadership abilities. He was Class President as well as Homecoming King. Tim then attended Washington State University and California State University at Los Angeles Majoring in Political Science, Public Administration and Police Administration. In 1955, Tim enlisted in the U.S. Army and was honorably discharged in 1957 where he was in Communications and played basketball for the Army. Tim moved to Los Angeles, California in 1958 where he joined the Los Angeles Police Department. (LAPD) With his quick-wit, coupled with passing a series of LAPD exams and obvious leadership abilities, at the young age of 34, Tim quickly rose to the rank of Lieutenant, LAPD. Tim was the youngest to achieve that rank at that age and at that time. Older Officers learned to ``Trust'' his Leadership and follow his supervision. He supervised up to 188 Officers depending upon the assignment and circumstances. As a LAPD Lieutenant of Police, Tim served as Officer-in-Charge of Detective Special Investigative Teams handling homicide, robbery and narcotics; Sex Crimes; Vice-Unit Investigations; Equal Opportunity and Development, and the Affirmative Action Unit/Discrimination Complaint Unit. Tim also served as Patrol Division Watch Commander, Patrol Division Supervisor, and an Instructor at the Academy on robbery and homicide investigations, police-community relations and American Indian Culture awareness. He was a frequent Instructor at the Indian Police Academy at Roswell, New Mexico, training Officers to work on Indian Reservations. While Officer-In-Charge he was responsible for assessing the legal implications of each investigation, assignment of investigative personnel, and analysis, evaluation of status and crime trends and recommendations for strategic planning to address issues and programmatic concerns. In 1972 and 1973, through the Intergovernmental Personnel Act, the LAPD loaned S. Timothy Wapato to the Colville Confederated Tribe for a Special Assignment to plan and design a Tribal Police Department and a Tribal Court. Tim completed the design for the Department with a fish and wild life enforcement section, fish and wildlife biology section, court system, and public highway safety program. During the 21 years Tim served with the LAPD, Tim volunteered his off-duty time to work for the City of Los Angeles (LA) including the following; Chairman of the Los Angeles City-County Native American Commission, Member of the Council for Peace and Equality in Education, Member of the Board for the LA Indian Center, President, United American Indian Council, and President, American Indian Welcome House. Sherman Timothy Wapato retired from the LAPD in 1979, after 21 years of service to the City of Los Angeles and after receiving numerous commendations for his work. After retirement, Tim immediately took a post with the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission (CRITFC) where he worked for 10 years, (1979-1989). Initially Tim was the Director of Fisheries Protection and Enforcement. In 1980 Tim was appointed by the Board of Directors to Executive Director of the Commission. He executed and administered grants and contracts, supervised over 65 legal, technical and administrative employees and was responsible for administering a $5.5 million annual budget. He directed the analysis, evaluation, formulation and implementation of policy, judicial and legislative initiatives, developed cooperative working agreements with international, national, federal state, and regional parties for the benefit of Tribal and intertribal interests in the areas of water rights, regulation and enforcement, treaty rights, hydropower fishing rights and resource management. While Tim was at CRITFC, he was appointed by President Reagan in 1986 to serve on the U.S. Pacific Salmon Commission. President Reagan re- appointed Tim to negotiate the Treaty between Canada and the United States to serve a second term in 1988. As a Commissioner, Tim reported to U.S. Secretary of State and was responsible for implementing the International Treaty provisions between the U.S. and Canada. His peers elected Tim to be the Chairman of the International Treaty Council, (the full Commission comprised of Canadian and U.S. Commissioners) with the responsibility of U.S. Chief Negotiator in the annual negotiations on the Treaty with Canada. The result was the Pacific Salmon Treaty between the U.S. and Canada which acknowledged Tribes as sovereigns and equal co-managers. In 1989 Tim accepted a Senior Executive Service, Political Appointment and became the Commissioner of the Administration for Native Americans in the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Tim led ANA from 1989-1993. As, Commissioner for ANA, Tim was responsible for formulating and administering a $34,000,000.00 budget to provide grants, contracts, technical assistance and training, interagency agreements and activities beneficial to ANA clients. He served as the principal advisor to the Sec. of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on Native American Affairs, including Native Hawaiians, Samoans and other Pacific Islanders. Tim provided testimony before Congress, delivered keynote speeches at national, regional, tribal, federal and state meetings and worked on the reauthorization of the ANA Legislation within the Federal Govt., with Congress and with key Indian organizations. Tim saw the need for improved coordination for Indian Tribes and helped establish the Inter- Agency Council which served as liaison and coordination within HHS and among federal agencies to ensure effective integration of programs and policies affecting Native Americans. While ANA Commissioner, Tim was also appointed to membership in the Senior Executive Service Advisory Board, U.S. Office of Personnel Management, and to the Native American Veterans Coordinating Council with the Department of Veterans Affairs. Upon leaving Government Service in 1993, the Tribal Nations asked S. Timothy Wapato and his wife, A. Gay Kingman to develop and establish a National Indian Gaming Association (NIGA) Office in Washington, DC. Tim and Gay founded NIGA and through hard work and long hours developed NIGA into a powerful national organization for Indian Tribes. NIGA's DC office roots began in their home, discussions held frequently around the kitchen table, but the success of their work on the organization quickly expanded to increasingly larger offices on Capitol Hill. In 1995, the NIGA was the first Indian Organization ever to purchase and own property on Capitol Hill. As Executive Director and chief management officer of NIGA, Tim provided overall leadership, direction and guidance to Indian Tribal Nations. He supervised employees, managed and guided all NIGA projects, developed and implemented operating policies and procedures for investment funds, and public relations, including working with Congress. Namely, Tim developed and directed a strategy for a coordinated effort among public relations staff, attorneys, lobbyists, and Indian Tribes to realize success with Congress and the Administration. Under his leadership, this coalition was effective in stopping attempts to pass harmful legislation in Congress; and strategies and recommendations were developed to support amendments beneficial to Tribes. The national press called upon Tim often; again his quick wit and humor gained him enduring relationships with the media. In April 1994, NIGA won the coveted National AWARD FOR ``Creativity in Public Relations'' in New York City for the campaign/strategy implemented to educate the Public on Indian Gaming. Besides the coordinated Communication effort, two major programs were developed under Tim's NIGA leadership to assist Tribes: The ITN or Integrated Tribal Network, an electronic communication system, and the Institute for Tribal Government, an educational department within NIGA to offer courses and workshops to train and educate Tribes, States and staff of Casinos on a wide range of topics. In 1998, Tim first resigned from NIGA, wanting to make an attempt at a third retirement, but his resignation was not accepted by the Board. Later, Tim resigned again but remained faithfully committed to Indian Tribes but relocated to Rapid City, SD, so that he and Gay could be near family and take care of Gay's father, Gus Kingman, who lived to be 104 years old. In his fourth retirement, Tim served as the Executive Director of the Inter-Tribal Bison Cooperative in Rapid City until he experienced a stroke in August of 2000. Tim and Gay formed Kingman/Wapato & Associates, an Indian owned consulting, lobbying and technical assistance firm. Soon thereafter, the Great Plains Tribes asked them to help organize the Great Plains Tribal Chairman's Association where Gay continues to work as Executive Director. Tim never let his health challenges hold him back; right up until his death, he continued to give speeches, expert advice and served on several national boards, including the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development and the Institute for Tribal Government, Portland State University. He remained active in NIGA, National Congress of American Indians, Veterans Affairs, legislation politics, and was a mentor to many young people as they continued the battles for Indian Tribes. Tim was highly respected throughout the United States and touched many lives. He received many honors and was known for his brilliant mind, his wise advice, his humor, his vision, his capabilities, his ability to provide leadership in crisis and his strength of will. Though a tireless leader, he always made time and always had a kind word for his family and his extended family, of which he has legion. In his life's work, Tim had a skill for cutting through to the core issue, no matter how complex, then inspiring those around him to join hands to either take care of a problem or take advantage of an opportunity. It would be inadequate to label Tim simply as a visionary, because he himself would correct such a label and point out that together, we did not all just see or talk, rather we all made real things happen and stood our shared ground. That is Tim's truly unique legacy, providing guideposts to those who stand proudly in Tim's wake by having experienced a man--never daunted, habitually principled, strategically defiant, possessing great perspective yet a healthy appreciation for satire, and always hopeful. Tim was preceded in death by his parents, Reverend Paul Wapato (1955) and Elizabeth Wapato (1994), his Sister, Esther KeAna Wapato (1965) and Phillip Francis Wapato (1961) S. Timothy Wapato is survived by his wife, Gay Kingman, of Rapid City, SD; son Stephen Timothy Wapato (Megan), Wenatchee, WA and daughters KeAna Wapato Conrad and Theresa Wapato Borgia of Southern California; son Charles Robertson (Kathy), Vernon Robertson (Corina); and brothers Paul G. Wapato Jr. (Ruth), Spokane, WA, Titus R. Wapato, Santa Monica, CA, and James W. Wapato, Bouse, AZ. Together, Tim and Gay have 20 Grandchildren and 4 Great Grandchildren with one on the way. Over the years, Tim & Gay have mentored numerous young people and have a vast extended family who love and respect them.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, today I introduced legislation, along with Senators Stabenow and Tester, that establishes a first-of-its-kind program to dedicate funds to advance important state wildlife recovery and restoration programs. For many years, Congress has authorized a portion of the fees hunters and anglers pay on fishing and hunting gear to go to the States to support hunting and fishing. This program is a success and is part of the reason why we continue to have such a strong sportsman tradition in our country. However, a critical need has gone unmet; a need that this bill will fill. The Teaming With Wildlife Act of 2009 leverages a share of the fees that oil and gas companies pay to the Federal government for the right to drill for oil and gas on federal land, to fund programs administrated by the States to conserve the habitats of nongame species. This bill is a partnership between the States and Federal Government. Each State and territory developed a wildlife action plan that guides how the funds authorized under this act will be spent. The plans ensure that State wildlife agencies take a comprehensive approach to conservation, focusing on efforts to support nongame species that are not threatened or endangered. States will match the Federal funds, leveraging the success of these on-the-ground conservation projects. A rich and diverse environment is important to support our strong outdoor and sportsman tradition. All species are linked together. A successful pheasant hunt or landing a trophy walleye is connected to how we enhance the habitat of many other species. Enacting the Teaming With Wildlife Act will build on the tremendously successful programs of the 20th century and move us forward in broadening how we enhance all wildlife resources.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, today I introduced legislation, along with Senators Stabenow and Tester, that establishes a first-of-its-kind program to dedicate funds to advance important state wildlife recovery and restoration programs. For many years, Congress has authorized a portion of the fees hunters and anglers pay on fishing and hunting gear to go to the States to support hunting and fishing. This program is a success and is part of the reason why we continue to have such a strong sportsman tradition in our country. However, a critical need has gone unmet; a need that this bill will fill. The Teaming With Wildlife Act of 2009 leverages a share of the fees that oil and gas companies pay to the Federal government for the right to drill for oil and gas on federal land, to fund programs administrated by the States to conserve the habitats of nongame species. This bill is a partnership between the States and Federal Government. Each State and territory developed a wildlife action plan that guides how the funds authorized under this act will be spent. The plans ensure that State wildlife agencies take a comprehensive approach to conservation, focusing on efforts to support nongame species that are not threatened or endangered. States will match the Federal funds, leveraging the success of these on-the-ground conservation projects. A rich and diverse environment is important to support our strong outdoor and sportsman tradition. All species are linked together. A successful pheasant hunt or landing a trophy walleye is connected to how we enhance the habitat of many other species. Enacting the Teaming With Wildlife Act will build on the tremendously successful programs of the 20th century and move us forward in broadening how we enhance all wildlife resources.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I wish today to recognize the work and career of Debra K. Clow of Sioux Falls, SD. Later this month, Debra will be retiring after nearly 37 years of Federal service in the Department of Veterans Affairs. Debra grew up in Yankton, SD. She attended the University of South Dakota at Springfield and started her career with the ROTC at USD in August 1972. She began her career with the VA as a fee base clerk in January 1974 and over the years worked impressively in various capacities, including development clerk, claims examiner, authorizer, training and quality coordinator, and coach. In recent years, she also advised and updated South Dakota congressional staffs with the detailed status of cases involving numerous veterans. While working at the VA Regional Office in Sioux Falls, Debra served as the women's veterans coordinator. She served as coordinator from 1990 to 2008, witnessing the evolving scope of care and attention to the unique issues affecting women veterans. She has also attended numerous VA outreach events to explain VA benefits to veterans and their dependents. I want to commend Debra for her many years of service to this Nation's veterans and their families. Her honorable service has been marked by a true sense of dedication and commitment to the men and women who have served our Nation in the Armed Forces. Countless veterans have benefitted from her dedicated work, much of which was done behind the scenes but always with the best interests of the veterans in mind. I applaud her great service, and I am sure that she is retiring from the Department of Veterans Affairs with many rewarding experiences and memories. I wish Debra and her husband, Jeff, all the best in retirement. As a life member of the Izaak Walton League of America, a 25-year member of the American Business Women's Association, and an avid gardener and dog lover, I am sure there are many endeavors awaiting her attention and effort. Again, I wish to recognize and commend Debra for her great service to our Nation.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, today I would like to recognize the career of a remarkable veterinary professional who has influenced livestock health in the State of South Dakota and across the Nation: South Dakota State veterinarian Dr. Sam Holland. Dr. Holland has earned the respect of his colleagues, farmers and ranchers, and Congressmen and Congresswomen and government officials on a national basis. His talent and commitment to his profession have not only influenced the physical health of our livestock herds but also improved the economic health and viability of agricultural communities across America. As South Dakota State veterinarian since 1995 and most immediate past president of the National Assembly of State Animal Health Officials, Dr. Holland's guidance and extensive expertise have helped to effectively navigate livestock health concerns. As a practicing large- animal veterinarian for 15 years, he made monumental impacts to a sector of the animal health front that, now in the midst of shortages of veterinarians for underserved populations, especially has needed his contributions. Dr. Holland's involvement has shaped responses on a national basis to a number of livestock health issues, from developing a national model to respond to chronic wasting disease to a Veterinary Medical Reserve Corps for emergency situations. His expertise has also influenced discussions and action to diseases such as brucellosis, pseudorabies, and trichomoniasis, just to name a few. Dr. Holland's involvement in South Dakota's State-based meat inspection program is arguably no small factor why this most recent Federal farm bill finally included language to allow for the transportation of State-inspected meat across State lines. And he has long adopted a commonsense approach to trade, to maintain and address the integrity of our livestock herd health before opening our borders to more food imports. On the subject of trade, I am particularly grateful for the time and knowledge Dr. Holland dedicated to shaping the Foot and Mouth Disease Prevention Act to ensure this legislation was targeted and effective on the animal health front. I am confident that the successes we achieved on this measure as a team would have been impossible if not for his input and leadership. I am very pleased to hear that Dr. Holland will continue to be involved with the South Dakota Medical Examining Board, through which he will maintain a presence on the South Dakota animal health front. Dr. Holland, thank you for everything you have done for the health of our livestock sector and agricultural communities in South Dakota and across the Nation. I wish you the very best in your retirement. 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF VERMILLION, SOUTH DAKOTA

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the pending amendment be set aside.

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I rise to express my support for the CHIP Reauthorization Act, and to urge my colleagues to improve CHIP and cover an additional 4.1 million kids. I voted to create this program in 1997, and I have watched with great satisfaction as the number of uninsured children in our country has dropped. Thanks to CHIP, my State can provide health insurance to about 11,000 kids every month. As a result, these kids have every chance to do their best in school and live long, healthy, productive lives. This is a great achievement, but we have more work to do. South Dakota still has about 18,000 uninsured kids. Half of these kids meet the income requirements for Medicaid and CHIP but remain uninsured. With health insurance premiums doubling in the past 8 years and unemployment on the rise, more families cannot keep up. Fortunately, this bill helps these families when they need it the most and allows States to cover more kids and provides bonus payments for focusing on low-income kids. I am especially pleased that the bill allows children whose private insurance does not include dental coverage to enroll in the CHIP dental program. I understand some of my colleagues object to allowing States to end the 5-year waiting period for covered legal immigrant children and pregnant women in Medicaid and CHIP. This debate is not about whether to provide coverage but, rather, to end the 5-year wait these future citizens must endure. A sick child does not have 5 years to wait, and it is not in the spirit of our Founding Fathers to force legal immigrants to wait 5 years for services they desperately need. I urge my colleagues to remember that other than Native Americans, we are a nation of immigrants. On a personal note, I am pleased to join in the debate on CHIP this year, as I missed much of the 2007 debate while recovering from my AVM. That experience taught me the infinite value of good health insurance and great health care, a lesson from which I hope we can all learn. This bill, which is fully paid for over the reauthorization period, is exactly what low-income families need during this time of economic uncertainty. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting the CHIP Reauthorization Act. I yield the floor, and I suggest the absence of a quorum.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, today I introduce the Foot and Mouth Disease Prevention Act of 2009 with my colleague from Wyoming, Senator Mike Enzi, and with broad organizational support. I drafted this bill with one goal in mind: to keep America Foot and Mouth Disease, FMD, free. The United States Department of Agriculture, USDA, under the Bush administration proposed throwing open our borders to Argentine livestock, fresh meat and fresh product. While the United States of America has been free of FMD without vaccination since 1929, Argentina has consistently struggled with the disease, experiencing outbreaks as recently as 2006. Argentina has failed to remain FMD free for any length of time and arguably lacks the infrastructure necessary for this proposal to fly. In fact, a 2001 outbreak in Argentina went unreported and was hidden by the Argentine government, raising serious questions regarding their communication on this front. The Foot and Mouth Disease Prevention Act of 2009 doesn't interrupt the status quo. Argentina can import product that is dried or cooked, for example, that doesn't pose a risk for disease transmission. And we're not saying that increased trade is permanently prohibited. We are simply asking for Argentina to comply with certain acceptable standards for trade that would ensure the country as a whole is FMD free, and FMD free without vaccination. Additionally, our requirement that the Secretary of Agriculture ``certifies to Congress'' that Argentina as a country is free of FMD is merely a reporting process regarding Argentina's disease status. Senator Enzi and I consulted extensively with nationally recognized livestock health experts on USDA's proposal. These livestock health experts resoundingly voiced their concern for USDA's plan, which fails to put American farmers and ranchers first. Dr. Sam Holland, South Dakota State Veterinarian and Past President of the National Assembly of State Animal Health Officials, NASAHO, has been instrumental with offering his guidance and expertise. A poll was taken within NASAHO and the majority of state veterinarians oppose regionalizing for FMD. While regionalization may be an appropriate approach in various other circumstances, it is unequivocally unacceptable in responding to Foot and Mouth Disease. An FMD outbreak in the United States is projected to cost our agricultural economy billions of dollars, and it is with good reason that the American Veterinary Medical Association, AVMA, has deemed FMD to be the most devastating of all livestock diseases. USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services, APHIS, arguably violated its own World Organization for Animal Health-complaint regionalization plan in proposing increased meat trade with Argentina. APHIS must address eleven points when initiating the regionalization process, including points six and seven which speak to the degree of separation of the region and the extent to which movement can be determined and controlled. Nationally recognized livestock health experts believe that in the case of regionalizing for FMD, sound scientific evidence argues against USDA's proposal. This past fall, USDA APHIS Chief Veterinarian Dr. Clifford discussed with my staff his intention not to proceed with the Argentina plan until a review of the 2005 risk assessment was completed. It is my understanding that a team will be sent to Argentina to conduct this review in late February. Additionally, the new Administration is reviewing proposed rules, of which the Argentina plan is included. While both of these developments are encouraging, it is essential that we continue to communicate the potentially disastrous consequences of this plan. Organizations across the agricultural industry support this legislation, including the American Sheep Industry Association, United States Cattlemen's Association, R-CALF, National Farmers Union, South Dakota Stockgrowers Association, South Dakota Cattlemen's Association, Wyoming Stock Growers Association, South Dakota Farmers Union, Women Involved in Farm Economics, and Dakota Rural Action. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that letters of support be printed in the Record.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, today I introduce the Foot and Mouth Disease Prevention Act of 2009 with my colleague from Wyoming, Senator Mike Enzi, and with broad organizational support. I drafted this bill with one goal in mind: to keep America Foot and Mouth Disease, FMD, free. The United States Department of Agriculture, USDA, under the Bush administration proposed throwing open our borders to Argentine livestock, fresh meat and fresh product. While the United States of America has been free of FMD without vaccination since 1929, Argentina has consistently struggled with the disease, experiencing outbreaks as recently as 2006. Argentina has failed to remain FMD free for any length of time and arguably lacks the infrastructure necessary for this proposal to fly. In fact, a 2001 outbreak in Argentina went unreported and was hidden by the Argentine government, raising serious questions regarding their communication on this front. The Foot and Mouth Disease Prevention Act of 2009 doesn't interrupt the status quo. Argentina can import product that is dried or cooked, for example, that doesn't pose a risk for disease transmission. And we're not saying that increased trade is permanently prohibited. We are simply asking for Argentina to comply with certain acceptable standards for trade that would ensure the country as a whole is FMD free, and FMD free without vaccination. Additionally, our requirement that the Secretary of Agriculture ``certifies to Congress'' that Argentina as a country is free of FMD is merely a reporting process regarding Argentina's disease status. Senator Enzi and I consulted extensively with nationally recognized livestock health experts on USDA's proposal. These livestock health experts resoundingly voiced their concern for USDA's plan, which fails to put American farmers and ranchers first. Dr. Sam Holland, South Dakota State Veterinarian and Past President of the National Assembly of State Animal Health Officials, NASAHO, has been instrumental with offering his guidance and expertise. A poll was taken within NASAHO and the majority of state veterinarians oppose regionalizing for FMD. While regionalization may be an appropriate approach in various other circumstances, it is unequivocally unacceptable in responding to Foot and Mouth Disease. An FMD outbreak in the United States is projected to cost our agricultural economy billions of dollars, and it is with good reason that the American Veterinary Medical Association, AVMA, has deemed FMD to be the most devastating of all livestock diseases. USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services, APHIS, arguably violated its own World Organization for Animal Health-complaint regionalization plan in proposing increased meat trade with Argentina. APHIS must address eleven points when initiating the regionalization process, including points six and seven which speak to the degree of separation of the region and the extent to which movement can be determined and controlled. Nationally recognized livestock health experts believe that in the case of regionalizing for FMD, sound scientific evidence argues against USDA's proposal. This past fall, USDA APHIS Chief Veterinarian Dr. Clifford discussed with my staff his intention not to proceed with the Argentina plan until a review of the 2005 risk assessment was completed. It is my understanding that a team will be sent to Argentina to conduct this review in late February. Additionally, the new Administration is reviewing proposed rules, of which the Argentina plan is included. While both of these developments are encouraging, it is essential that we continue to communicate the potentially disastrous consequences of this plan. Organizations across the agricultural industry support this legislation, including the American Sheep Industry Association, United States Cattlemen's Association, R-CALF, National Farmers Union, South Dakota Stockgrowers Association, South Dakota Cattlemen's Association, Wyoming Stock Growers Association, South Dakota Farmers Union, Women Involved in Farm Economics, and Dakota Rural Action. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that letters of support be printed in the Record.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, each November we celebrate American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month to honor the first inhabitants of this land and recognize the relationship this country has with American Indian people. In that same spirit, I would also like to specifically recognize the nine treaty tribes that I am honored to represent in South Dakota. American Indians are unique among other groups in this country because of the government-to-government relationship established through countless treaties--documents affirmed in article VI of our Constitution as the supreme law of the land. This special status and the strength of these age-old contracts have enabled American Indians to shape this country's history in profound ways, as tribal history is deeply entwined with America's. The continued fulfillment of our treaty and trust obligations along with a respect for the tenets of tribal sovereignty are thus essential responsibilities of this country. South Dakota's tribes have a special place in this history due to their proactive leadership in the Federal-tribal relationship. For example, the 1868 Treaty of Fort Laramie was entered into by Indian tribes in South Dakota that desired a peaceful relationship with the United States and a mutual recognition of sovereignty. In this treaty, like many others, the United States entered an agreement to end hostilities and for the cession of land, in return entering into a contract to provide assistance with education, health care, farming and other necessities; these responsibilities continue today. During this month of recognition and remembrance it is only appropriate to recognize the special status of the treaty tribes. In addition to this unique governmental relationship, American Indians actively enrich the fabric of our Nation's character in many ways. Tribal members have courageously served to protect America in every conflict since the Revolutionary War, and they have served at the highest rate of any group in the country. Tribal educational models are rapidly gaining respect for an approach that stresses the importance of history and culture as well as the skills necessary for students to prosper in an increasingly global world. American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month falls in the same month as Thanksgiving and I hope this affords us with the time to give thanks for the sacrifices of the first Americans. Once reduced to a population of less than 50,000, the American Indian population is now some 4.5 million strong. Their story, like that of the country as a whole, is a proud, resilient history and I am committed to supporting tribes as they continue to build a strong future. Observance of American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month honors the unique heritage of this country's first inhabitants, and most importantly reaffirms our responsibility to honor Indian treaties.