Tim Johnson

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, today I am introducing legislation that will make a necessary clarification to current law regarding the application of the federal medical assistance percentage or FMAP. I am joined by Senator Bingaman in introducing this bill. The Indian Health Care Improvement Act, IHCIA, provides for 100 percent Federal medical assistance percentage, FMAP, applicable to Medicaid services ``received through an Indian Health Service facility.'' This definition has created some issues for state Medicaid programs when applying for the full FMAP rate for services provided to Native Americans that are referred by an Indian Health Service facility to a non-IRS facility. North Dakota and South Dakota have been in the courts with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services or CMS over this issue. Since last year when CMS determined that the 100 percent FMAP was not allowable for referred services, North Dakota and South Dakota appealed and prevailed in a lawsuit at the district court level. The Federal appeals court has now reversed the district court's decision and affirmed that those states must repay CMS for the excess payments. While the court sided in favor of CMS, the decision states that there is a lack of clarity in the statute pertaining to how referred patients are covered through the Federal match. CMS disallowed $4 million in payments that South Dakota's Department of Social Services had billed Medicaid through the 100 percent FMAP for Indian patients seen in non-IHS facilities through referrals. At issue is a lack of specificity regarding how far ``received through'' should extend. The most recent court decision even states ``the statutory language is susceptible to multiple interpretations.'' The legislation I am introducing today will clarify the statute and make it completely clear that any services provided under a state Medicaid plan which are referred by any Indian Health Service facility, whether operated by the IHS or by and Indian tribe or tribal organization are to be covered by the 100 percent FMAP amount. Any previous disallowance of a claim or claims by CMS will be reviewed by the Department of Health and Human Services within 90 days of enactment of this legislation and payments adjusted accordingly if the claim meets the standards set forth in this bill. The Senate Indian Affairs Committee, of which I am a member, will be considering the IHCIA this fall. It is my hope that this legislation will be considered within the broader context of the debate on IHCIA. Clearly the Federal government has an obligation to live up to the treaties and responsibilities to our tribes and all Native Americans. I see this legislation as an extension of the obligation.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, would the gentleman from New Mexico yield to me for purposes of engaging in a colloquy?

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, today the Senate is poised to pass the Energy Policy Act of 2005, the most sweeping comprehensive Energy bill in over a decade. We need a comprehensive set of policies to attack the energy crunch facing Americans on multiple fronts. Electricity systems on the West Coast are strained as electrical transmission lines lack capacity and interconnection to move power throughout regions. The dependence of our economy on foreign sources of energy continues to climb unabated, with close to 60 percent of the oil used to power the economy originating from foreign ports and oil fields. As a Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and as Member of the conference committee charged with hammering out an agreement, I have steered my colleagues in the House and in the Senate to look toward the Heartland as a rich land ready to contribute to our energy security. The Energy Policy Act of 2005 incorporates many of the ideas I have long championed to spring forward South Dakota and the Great Plains as a key future energy producer. First and foremost, the Energy Policy Act of 2005 establishes a robust Renewable Fuel Standard that will lessen imports of foreign sources of energy and encourage the use of clean-burning renewable fuels. Beginning in 2006, the Energy bill establishes a robust renewable fuels standard requiring refiners to blend 4 billion gallons of renewable fuels, such as ethanol and biodiesel. That standard would be increased over the next several years until 2012, when refiners would be required to blend a total of 7.5 billion gallons of renewable fuels. Just in South Dakota alone, over 8000 farm families are invested in ethanol facilities through direct deliveries of corn or in more indirect paths, such as equity shares. The Nation's economy will get a significant and positive boost from enactment of the RFS. There are several other provisions in the bill that bring South Dakota's strength to solving the Nation's energy challenges. Key tax incentives included in the final version of the Energy bill extend the tax credit for small ethanol producers and expand the eligibility of that credit to plants with an annual capacity of up to 60 million gallons is a major victory. The conference report also provides incentives for bio-diesel. Ethanol is not the only renewable fuel that can be produced in the United States soybean-based bio-diesel holds great promise for use in the Nation's fuel supply. We focused also on tapping wind energy resources by extending for 2 additional years the production tax credit for wind energy facilities. The production tax credit is a tool used by developers of wind energy projects, such as the wind energy farm near Highmore, SD. One final tax provision that I feel holds particular promise is the authorization of $800 million in tax credit bonds to finance the construction of renewable energy projects by not-for-profit utilities and rural electric cooperatives. I have heard from dozens of electric cooperative and municipal utilities that want to undertake the construction of wind energy projects. However, until this bill, these non-profit entities were excluded from some of the incentives provided for Investor-Owned Utilities pursuing similar renewable energy projects. Now, rural cooperatives can finance, construct, and operate clean energy projects, such as wind turbines and geo-thermal facilities. The conference report does not include what I believe is an important provision to set benchmarks and targets for producing electricity from renewable energy resources. Like a renewable fuels standard, a renewable portfolio standard would not only reduce the use of fossil fuel sources, but increase economic activity in South Dakota through wind energy and biomass projects. A modest renewable portfolio standard of 5 or 10 percent is achievable and can be done without increasing retail electricity rates. The benefits of balancing traditional energy sources, such as coal, nuclear, and natural gas, with new technologies will reduce air emissions and spur the creation of jobs in developing energy technology sectors. I include clean coal technologies, such as Integrated Gasification Combined-Cycle as an emerging clean coal technology that along with wind and geothermal plants hold the promise of producing clean-burning electricity. As Congress and the States and cities move forward on addressing the energy challenges of the 21st Century, policy-makers and industry leaders can lose sight and leave behind developing renewable energy sources. As the Nation and world strain finite fossil fuel resources the need to bring on-line these technologies will only become more acute and practical. I intend to vote for the Energy Policy Act of 2005. As a Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, I am proud of the job we did in fashioning a bill that will make strong strides forward in tackling the disparate parts of energy supply, transmission, and distribution. The bill also holds strong promise for making South Dakota a substantial energy producer of clean energy and renewable fuels. I urge my colleagues to support the Energy Policy Act of 2005.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize and honor Dr. Bruce Halverson on the occasion of his retirement as president of Augustana College in Sioux Falls, SD. Dr. Halverson, a native of Sioux Falls, is the first alumnus to ever serve as Augustana's president. As a member of the class of 1966, he majored in speech and drama, earning cum laude distinctions. He continued his education at the University of Washington where he secured his Ph.D. in theater history in 1971. Following graduation, Dr. Halverson compiled an impressive resume, including an array of educational and theatrical credits. As a theater director throughout the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s, he worked with award- winning actors, producing and directing pieces he occasionally even co- authored. In addition to his professional stage work, Dr. Halverson served as dean of the School of Theatre at Florida State University, as well as artistic director and chairman of theater departments at various universities, including the University of Illinois, Grinnell College, and Ithaca College. Moreover, he was director of education at the National Institute for the Deaf, where he displayed his skills and dedication as an educator and advocate of equal opportunity. Most recently, Dr. Halverson has shown his commitment to South Dakota by returning to his alma mater in 2000 as the 22nd president of Augustana College. During his presidency, Augustana implemented $13 million in projects to expand the campus, including constructing the Fantle Building for the Center for Western Studies, enhancing the Elmen Center, and creating the Center for the Visual Arts. A new football training facility is also in progress. Under Dr. Halverson's leadership, Augustana's $50 million Sunrise Capital Campaign is expected to successfully conclude around the time of his retirement. Further, he has been praised for his work in securing a record number of State scholarships for Augustana students. In recognition of his dedication to the college, Augustana's board of trustees asked Dr. Halverson to continue his work with the school following his retirement. As the school newspaper, Augustana Today, notes: Halverson has laid the groundwork for his successor by enhancing Augustana's financial viability, encouraging faculty research, undertaking strategic planning, and strengthening alumni support. Additionally, Dr. Halverson is a steadfast proponent of eliminating barriers for people with disabilities, particularly concerning theater and the arts. His compassion and outspoken commitment have moved him to write extensively on the topic, as well as travel all over our country, speaking and presenting at various conferences. As Augustana's first president proficient in sign language, it is clear that Dr. Halverson personifies his values and takes to heart his role as an educator. Mr. President, it is an honor for me to share the impressive accomplishments of Dr. Bruce Halverson with my colleagues. I commend him for his tireless dedication to theatre, education, and enhancing the arts, especially in the State of South Dakota. The lives of countless people have been enormously enhanced by Dr. Halverson's talent and leadership as president of Augustana College. I wish the very best for him, his wife Nancy, and their three sons Tait, Jeffry and Cole, as Dr. Halverson continues to contribute to and improve education throughout South Dakota.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I rise today to honor and publicly recognize the city of Alexandria, SD. This year marks the 125th anniversary of the founding of Alexandria, and from August 14 through August 18, its citizens will gather to celebrate their proud past as well as their hope for a promising future. Located three miles from the banks of the James River in southeast South Dakota, Alexandria was originally named Clarksville after Dearborn Clark, who donated the land upon which the town was built. It was renamed Alexander in 1879, and later changed to Alexandria, to honor Alexander Mitchell, the president of the Chicago, Milwaukee Railway. The first buildings were built in 1880, and the city was officially incorporated in 1883. Later that decade, Alexandria was named county seat of Hanson County, a title it still maintains. The frontier town grew quickly in the following years, and by 1893, the population exceeded 1,000 people. Enjoying a robust agricultural economy, Alexandria shipped more than 1,000 boxcars of grain annually. In 1914, the city purchased an electric generator, and local businessmen financed a $1,200 project to make Alexandria one of the first communities in South Dakota with electric streetlights. In 1885, the city applied to become the State capital, but came in fourth in the voting. Since the boom years of the early 1900s, economic circumstances have, of course, changed. Still, Alexandria continues to provide essential services and support to local farmers and ranchers. The rugged days of pioneer life have ended, but the residents of this extraordinary community continue to exemplify the bold and enterprising pioneer spirit. In her book, Hanson Heritage, Mildred Soladay celebrates the courage of the settlers who founded Alexandria: ``They had no past,'' she writes, ``but the infinite future lay before them.'' Today, the citizens of Alexandria do indeed have a past worthy of celebration, yet as they commemorate their city's 125th anniversary, the promise of their future remains infinite.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to Army SSG Jason Montefering, who died on July 24, 2005, while serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was a member of the 3rd Armored Cavalry Division, and was killed when an improvised explosive device, IED, detonated near his military vehicle in Baghdad. A graduate of Parkston High School, Staff Sergeant Montefering was serving his second tour of duty in Iraq. He will be remembered as a hard worker who was always ready to get his hands dirty, according to his former employer. While in high school, Jason worked part time at Murtha Repair in Parkston. Owner John Murtha remarked that Jason ``would sweep up and then help the mechanics. All of the guys liked working with him. He was a real good kid.'' Staff Sergeant Montefering is the 11th servicemember from South Dakota killed during hostilities in Iraq. He served our country with honor and died a hero defending it. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time, as well as all those who have loved ones serving overseas. I commend Staff Sergeant Montefering's commitment to his family, his Nation, and his community. Without question, his dedication to helping others will serve as his greatest legacy, and our Nation is a far better place because of Staff Sergeant Montefering's contributions. I join all South Dakotans in expressing my sympathies to the friends and family of Staff Sergeant Montefering. I know he will be deeply missed, but his service to our Nation will never be forgotten. Sergeant Jason T. Palmerton

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I rise today to honor and publicly recognize the 125th anniversary of the founding of the town of Colman, South Dakota. On August 13, 2005, Colman citizens celebrate their community's proud past as well as their hope for a promising future. Located in Moody County, Colman is a small community nestled amongst the fertile farmland of eastern South Dakota. The town got its start with the help of the railroad, specifically the Milwaukee line, as it made its way into the western United States. Platted in 1880, Colman was originally named Allenson, in honor of the Allen family who donated the town site in 1880. Not long thereafter, however, it was renamed Colman, honoring the town's prosperous Colman Lumber Company. Colman experienced a great deal of economic prosperity in the early 20th century. Although only a fraction of the businesses Main Street once boasted are still in operation, it is clear Colman was a lively, self-sufficient city with a variety of goods and services to offer. The bustling community included a grain elevator, a flourishing mill, both a dairy and dairy delivery service, a trucking service, a doctor, a weekly newspaper, and a theater that showed movies every night of the week. One of Colman's oldest businesses is the Farmers Cooperative Elevator, which is still in use today. Although it was established in 1898, the structure was destroyed and had to be rebuilt in 1941. Additionally, Colman's first school was a one-room building near the western outskirts of the town. On January 28, 1901, the first issue of The Colman Argus was published by Bert H. Berry. In April of that year, Berry sold the weekly paper to F.F. French, who owned and edited it until his death in 1931. French's son, F. Philo French, continued to print the publication for the next 26 years, and then passed it on in 1957 to his widow, Lulu French, who eventually sold the paper in 1971, upon her retirement. In the last three decades, Colman has evolved into a peaceful and quiet community that is great for retirees, those raising children, and everyone in between. The curtailment of the railroad, in addition to the improvement of roads and alternate routes that sidestepped Colman, caused people to travel to larger towns in the State to conduct their business. Nevertheless, technology and progress can never touch the firm resolve and remarkable work ethic that is characteristic of the great people of this country's heartland. The innovation and determination of the individuals who had the courage to make a home for themselves on the plains of the Dakotas serves as inspiration to all those who believe in the honest pursuit of their dreams. Colman's proud 560 residents celebrate their city's vibrant 125 year history and the legacy of the pioneer spirit on August 13th, 2005.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I rise today in support of Senate amendment No. 1389 to postpone the current round of domestic military base closures. The threats confronting the United States today are vastly different from those during the Cold War, and we must shift our defense posture to address new and emerging enemies. I do not dispute that closing and realigning excess military capacity is critical to that endeavor. However, I fear we are rushing to conclude this process before having all pertinent national security information to make a well-informed decision. In short, I believe we have put the cart before the horse. While I support delaying this base closure round, I do not dismiss the important work of the Base Realignment and Closure Commission. The Commissioners and their staff should be commended for their diligent efforts to carefully review and evaluate each recommendation made by the Pentagon. Having said that, I believe closing military installations without thoughtful consideration is short- sighted. Before implementing this round of base closures critical issues should be resolved to ensure we have not irrevocably damaged our ability to confront threats at home and abroad. The amendment requires specific benchmarks be fulfilled before the current round of domestic base closures is completed. I believe these requirements are logical and necessary in light of the threats facing the United States. The ongoing conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan are our most urgent national security concern, but the United States must be prepared to address other potential enemies. According to a recent Defense Department report, China has expanded its military reach enabling them to threaten Taiwan, Japan, and the U.S. military in the Pacific. Furthermore, China continues to both improve and expand its nuclear arsenal and has the capacity to field advanced missiles able to strike the United States. China is not our only national security concern, as both Iran and North Korea have refused to relinquish their nuclear weapons programs. U.S. intelligence experts agree North Korea has developed multiple nuclear weapons, while Iran, an active state sponsor of terrorism, continues to pursue chemical and biological weapons. Before completing this round of base closures, I believe it is prudent and sound policy to analyze all pertinent information that may impact our national security. For instance, the Department of Defense is undertaking a monumental shift in overseas deployments, which is long overdue. However, the Commission on Review of Overseas Military Facility Structure of the United States, commonly referred to as the Overseas Basing Commission, has indicated the Pentagon's plan to rotate soldiers back to the United States from overseas installations may be flawed. The Overseas Basing Commission argues if a crisis arises abroad, the military does not have enough sea and air transportation to rotate forces rapidly enough to respond. Furthermore, the Commission believes the Pentagon has understated the costs to redeploy troops to American soil. Finally, and most troubling, the Commission argues the plan could result in extended and more frequent rotations, which could strain U.S. military personnel and their families to the point where the United States is incapable of maintaining an all-volunteer force. In addition, currently tens of thousands of brave men and women are serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, and like all Americans, it is my sincere hope that these soldiers return home as soon as possible. Having said that, I recognize immediately withdrawing American troops from Iraq could result in chaos and undermine the tremendous efforts made by all our service members. However, I question the timing of this round of base closures given that our Nation is at war and so many of our soldiers are supporting this effort. Until these troops have finished their important mission, and have returned home safely, it does not make sense to close military installations at home. Finally, we should not move forward with this round of base closures until the Defense Department completes the Quadrennial Defense Review and presents its findings to the President and Congress. The QDR is integral to U.S. military strategy as it assesses our future military capabilities and identifies emerging threats. It makes little sense to restructure our defenses until Congress has access to this vital piece of information. I believe that these questions must be answered before we proceed with closing domestic military installations. We must reorganize our military force in order to respond to the threats of the 21st century. The challenge is to do so in a manner that is not detrimental to our national security and the men and women who proudly serve our country.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, today I wish to honor and publicly recognize the 125th anniversary of the Turner County Fair. From August 14 through August 18, 2005, the citizens of Turner County will gather in Parker, SD, to celebrate their proud past as well as their hope for a promising future. The Turner County Fair is South Dakota's oldest fair, first organized by the Turner County Agricultural Society and held on October 13 and 14 of 1880. Since then, the fair has grown into a major event. This year, more than 65,000 people are expected to visit during the 4 days of festivities, and fairgoers will be treated to a rich variety of entertainment. Scheduled activities include a parade, races, concerts, a carnival, a livestock show, and a rodeo. The fair will end with a fireworks display that the local newspaper, the Southeast Trumpet, has advertised as ``bigger and better than ever.'' I would especially like to recognize the Turner County 4-H Club for their part in this event. Turner County 4-H has played a leading role in the fair for the last 103 years and will figure prominently again this year. The local Jaycees Club, fire department, and a number of other community organizations also deserve recognition for their participation in organizing and producing this event. For 125 years, the Turner County Fair has brought citizens together to celebrate their heritage, their communities, and their shared hopes. It is indeed a privilege for me to officially recognize its anniversary today, and to wish the citizens of Turner County another 125 years of prosperity and happiness.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I am saddened to report the passing of one of the most innovative news personalities in South Dakota broadcasting history, Alfred William Edel. On July 3, South Dakota and the broadcasting industry lost a veteran radio and television reporter to cancer. Al's extraordinary contributions to news media set him apart from other dedicated reporters. Born in Buffalo, NY, in 1935, Al received his bachelor's degree from the College of Wooster, OH, in 1957, and then went on to secure his master's degree in communications from Syracuse University in 1959. Following his graduation from Syracuse, Al became a radio broadcaster and editor at WKBW in his hometown of Buffalo. Although his time at WKBW was short, it was clear from the start that his deep, booming voice would take him far. In 1960, Al joined the Department of Defense's American Forces Network, AFN, in Frankfurt, Germany. Al worked as a news writer and anchor, relaying the news to millions of GIs and American civilians stationed throughout the continent. The local community quickly appreciated and welcomed his quick understanding of the region's issues and his innate ability to infuse humor into his insightful and succinct reports. Interestingly, Al's two sons, Scot and Tod, were both born in the U.S. Army's 97th General Hospital in Frankfurt. As a result of his success in Germany, Al was promoted to chief of AFN's London news bureau in 1961. Following his term in London, Al, his wife Lee, and their two children packed up and moved back to the U.S. in 1966. At that time, he anchored ABC Radio's newscasts that aired daily throughout our Nation. Eager to try his hand in television, Al left ABC in 1970 to accept a position as prime-time news anchor at KSOO-TV in Sioux Falls, SD. KSOO would later become KSFY, which continues to broadcast today. As a member of KSOO-TV's team, Al and the news bureau nearly led the market with their tenacity and determination to cover all the news, even if their competitors were not interested in the story. Steve Hemmingsen, a reporter for KELO-Land News, recalls that Al and KSOO-TV went ``the extra mile to cover stories that KELO didn't think of covering. General Douglas MacArthur's `hit 'em where they ain't' philosophy of war transposed to television. [Al] helped wake [KELO] up and changed the way we do business.'' In addition to his ubiquitous strategy, Al's famous, deep, rumbling ``Good evening,'' and his trademark, ``Rest easy'' lured viewers to his program. Despite his success and popularity in South Dakota, Al accepted an offer in 1980 and moved to Washington as a news writer for ``Good Morning America.'' Subsequently, in 1982, he moved across town to become a radio anchor for the government's ``Voice of America station'' that broadcasts around the world via shortwave. Al retired from ``Voice of America'' in 1997, having worked in the business for nearly 40 years. In 2001, he and his wife Lee moved to St. George, UT, where he lived out his remaining years. It is an honor for me to share Al's accomplishments with my colleagues and to publicly commend the talent and commitment to broadcasting he always exhibited throughout his life. His dedication to providing the public with accurate, insightful, and original information serves as his greatest legacy, and his work continues to inspire all those who knew him. South Dakota and the broadcasting industry are far better because of Al's life, and while we miss him very much, the best way to honor his memory is to emulate the passion and enthusiasm he shared with others.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I rise today to honor and publicly recognize the 125th anniversary of the founding of Milbank, SD. I would like to take this opportunity to draw attention to and commemorate the achievements and history of this charming city that stands as an enduring tribute to the fortitude and pioneer spirit of the earliest Dakotans. Located in Grant County in northeastern South Dakota, Milbank got its start with the help of the railroad, specifically the Milwaukee line. Prior to the establishment of Milbank, the Milwaukee Railroad only went as far west as Ortonville, MN however, in 1880 it was extended to Milbank, a deserted section of prairie consisting of a solitary sod shanty. The railroad's arrival quickly gave rise to the town. Milbank is, in fact, named for Jeremiah Milbank, director of the Hastings division of the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad. Platted in 1880, the town was originally called the Village of Milbank Junction. Construction of the tracks was completed in July of 1880; however, at that point, the town was still in its earliest stages. As a result, everyone in the region ``who could handle a saw and hammer'' was summoned to help construct buildings. Development plans were running smoothly until a blizzard struck on October 25, 1880. The blizzard lasted 3 days, impeding not only the building process, but all local business. In hindsight, this storm turned out to be a sign of the difficult times Milbank would experience in its next few years. Due to the heavy snow storms and high drifts, rail service throughout the winter of 1880-81 was sporadic, at best. In fact, the spring proved to be more treacherous than the winter, as Milbank was hit with a series of blizzards between January and mid-April. Over a 12-week period, the tracks were so dangerous that no trains were able to reach the community. Consequently, the town nearly ran out of fuel, save for the green wood brought down from the hills. In the fall of 1881, the county commission held an election with hopes of moving the county seat from Big Stone City to an area closer to the center of Grant County. Milbank's population had increased considerably by that time, and its residents eagerly anticipated winning the two-thirds majority necessary to capture the title. Turnout for the vote was staggeringly high with virtually every person, regardless of residency, voting. Milbank received about 1,100 votes, claiming to have passed the two-thirds threshold; however, Big Stone City disputed Milbank's declaration, asserting that Milbank was 11 votes short. A rather long and drawn out dispute erupted, ripe with claims of election fraud and mismanaged ballot counting. The dispute ensued until two of the three county commissioners declared Milbank the winner. In addition to the difficult winter of 1880-81, four devastating fires broke out between 1884 and 1900. The Big Fire, as many call it, occurred mid-November of 1884, destroying every building on the east side of Main Street south to Third Avenue. Another of the significant fires, one of the quickest on record, took place July 30, 1895. Started by a loan company assistant hoping to profit from the catastrophe, the blaze ravaged the Grant County Court House, destroying virtually all of the records housed there, save for those locked in the fireproof safe. Despite these tragedies and hardships, Milbank's resilient residents rebounded and rebuilt, which is testimony to South Dakotans' legendary pioneer spirit. One of Milbank's notable attractions is its historic grist mill, a celebrated relic from the town's early days. Located on the east edge of the city, the Old Holland Mill is a favorite of tourists. Its name, however, is deceiving, as many assume it is a Dutch windmill. In realty, the English-style mill was designed and built in 1882 by Henry Hollands, who himself was an Englishman. The mill was used to grind buckwheat flour and to saw wood. Due to the rapid growth of the surrounding foliage, however, after a short period of time, the wind was not strong enough to turn the giant blades, consequently requiring the attachment of a gasoline engine to supply the power necessary to operate it. An interesting and clever feature of the mill is its main drive wheel, which is constructed entirely of wood to prevent significant damage or injury. If something were to go wrong, the wooden cogs in the wheel would break, thus rendering the mill ineffectual. Milbank is also proud of the recreational opportunities it offers. In addition to its four city parks, lighted tennis courts, swimming pool, and golf course, Milbank is the birthplace of American Legion Baseball. While hosting the seventh annual American Legion and Auxiliary convention in July of 1925, a resolution was passed to create Junior Legion Baseball throughout the entire Nation. Not only does this program provide an excellent recreational outlet for millions athletic youth, but throughout the years it has guided many talented athletes on to play professionally. In the twelve and a half decades since its founding, Milbank has provided its citizens with a rich and diverse atmosphere. Milbank's nearly 3,500 proud residents celebrate the town's 125th anniversary August 8-14, and it is with great honor that I share with my colleagues this community's unique past and wish them the best for a promising future.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, today I wish to honor and publicly acknowledge the 50th anniversary of Pollock, SD, a small community nestled on the eastern bluffs of the Missouri River marking the divide between eastern and western South Dakota. Located in northern Campbell County, Pollock's history is a bit different from most other South Dakota towns, due to its relocation in the 1950s. The town was originally formed in the mid-1880s under the name LaGrace, having been named after Mrs. Grace Fisk of Huron, SD. The town's name was changed to Pollock in 1901 to honor R.Y. Pollock, a pioneer lay minister and respected citizen. Although the first town of Pollock was platted in 1901, the present community was not established until 1955. Interestingly, ``new'' Pollock celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, yet 4 years ago, in 2001, residents commemorated ``old'' Pollock's 100th anniversary. The original town was actually a combination of two river towns, LaGrace and Vanderbilt. The cities merged in 1901 and many buildings from surrounding communities were brought in. As a result, Pollock grew rapidly, and within months boasted a post office, grocery store, flour and feed store, three saloons, a butcher, a blacksmith, a pool hall, a hardware store, and a printer. Like most young communities in the Dakotas, Pollock was not without its share of tragedy and hardship. In August of 1911, a fire broke out, destroying a large portion of the business district. Additionally, ``old'' Pollock was prone to flooding, as Spring Creek often overflowed during heavy rains. Still, despite these setbacks, Pollock's resilient residents always rebounded and rebuilt, which is a testimony to South Dakotans' legendary pioneer spirit. Until the early 1950s, Pollock's history was very much like most other South Dakota towns; however, that drastically changed in 1952, when the Army Corps of Engineers informed residents of its decision to build a dam on the Missouri River near Pierre. Although Pierre and Pollock are miles apart, the proposal also entailed flooding the entire town of Pollock and converting it into Lake Pocasse. Soon after learning of the Corps of Engineers' plan, residents formed the Pollock Flood Association, a committee designed to organize the public and help plan for the flood. The committee held a town meeting in January of 1953, and residents unanimously decided to move the town to a new location, which they eventually determined would be the area referred to as ``the old golf course.'' In order to purchase the land, the community created a non-profit corporation to buy and subdivide the property into individual lots. Subsequently, town members looked at a map of the various plots, selected the site they wanted, and placed their desired lot number in an envelope. During the drawing, surprisingly, there were only two or three instances of multiple families choosing the same piece of land, and in those cases, a coin was flipped to determine the lucky owner. The Corps of Engineers then purchased people's ``old'' Pollock property on behalf of the government, and residents were given the opportunity to buy back their house for 12 cents to the dollar and move the building to the new site. ``New'' Pollock's groundbreaking ceremony was held June 4, 1955, thus ultimately marking the birth of present-day Pollock, SD. Although transporting houses and other buildings was difficult, it paled in comparison to the railroad official's task of relocating the Minneapolis St. Paul and Sault Saint Marie Railroad, known as the Soo Line. The move involved constructing 5 miles of new grade and track, in addition to building a new engine house and relocating the depot. In mid-October of 1960, the task was complete and the first train arrived in Pollock to a large crowd of spectators. Despite the railroad's painstaking efforts to keep the trains accessible, its popularity began to decline shortly after the move. In 1987, the Soo Line route from Ashley, ND, to Pollock was abandoned, and the track was removed in 1988. In 1956, E.L. MacKay founded the Pollock Pioneer, the town's first newspaper. MacKay recorded the growth of the new community, and actually coined Pollock's motto, ``A city built on a hill cannot be hid,'' when he used it as a byline for an article. To this day, the Pollock Pioneer continues to provide residents with accurate and reliable news coverage. One of Pollock's notable attractions is its 60 acre City Park. Designed by the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish & Parks, in conjunction with the U.S. Soil Conservation Service, the recreation area is situated between the town and the waterfront. Year after year, City Park is host to countless family picnics and outdoor activities. The foliage throughout the park, as well as the entire town, noticeably enhances the beauty of this frontier community. As a matter of fact, 15,000 of Pollock's trees were planted in 1956 by local volunteers. Fifty years after its founding, Pollock supports numerous tourist facilities, such as parks, camping sites, a beach, boat ramps, motels, and bait shops. Pollock is also home to DairiConcepts' cheese plant. Originally named the Dakota Cheese Co., the plant was established by a group of local men in 1960. On its very first day of production, the Dakota Cheese Co. produced 1,350 pounds of cheddar cheese. Bought by Mid-America Dairymen in 1981, the plant, now called DairiConcepts, expanded to become Pollock's leading employer, with over 85 employees. Every day, the factory produces 62,000 pounds of mozzarella cheese. In the five decades since its founding, Pollock has provided its citizens with a rich and diverse atmosphere. Pollock's 300 proud residents celebrate the town's 50th anniversary June 24-26, 2005, and it is with great honor that I share with my colleagues this community's unique past and wish them the best for a promising future.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, today I want to address this body in order to help raise awareness about an important health problem in our society. Hearing loss impacts the lives of 28 million men, women, and children in the United States. As baby boomers reach retirement age, that number will rapidly climb and nearly double by 2030. The combined effects of noise, aging, disease, and heredity have made hearing impairments a reality for many Americans. Children with hearing loss may lack speech and language development skills. Seniors may find it difficult to talk with friends, listen to the television, or hear an alarm. For all Americans, recognizing and treating hearing loss can be the difference between dependence and independence. Across the country, awareness campaigns have identified hearing loss as a major public-health issue. Last month, Newsweek had a cover story discussing the impact of hearing loss on young Americans. Experts estimate that 21 million people could benefit from a hearing aid, but do not use them or have access to them. I will ask unanimous consent to insert this important news article in the Record, so that all of our colleagues can read and learn more about this issue. In addition to educating themselves, I also ask that Members educate their loved ones and constituents about this important issue. To ensure that Medicare beneficiaries receive direct access to services, I have introduced the Hearing Health Accessibility Act of 2005, S.277 in February of this year. I would like to take this moment to thank all of my colleagues that have cosponsored and supported this legislation. I urge other Senators to consider cosponsoring my bipartisan bill which will become increasingly important as baby boomers enter retirement. I ask unanimous consent the editorial to which I referred be printed in the Record.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, it is with great honor that I wish today to publicly recognize the 125th anniversary of the founding of the city of Madison, SD. It is at this time I would like to draw my colleagues' attention to the achievements and history of this charming city that stands as an enduring tribute to the moral fortitude and pioneer spirit of the earliest Dakotans. Located in the eastern part of South Dakota, Madison is one of the oldest towns in Lake County. The present town of Madison is actually the result of the merging of two cities, Madison and Herman. Lake County was established in January of 1873, and in the fall of that year, the county commissioners selected Madison to serve as the county seat. Interestingly, the town of Madison was not platted until July of 1875, 2 years after receiving its county seat title. The nearby town of Herman was founded in 1878 and a rivalry quickly developed between the two communities. In 1880, the southern Minnesota division of the Milwaukee Railroad decided to extend the rail line through the region. The area chosen for the tracks, however, missed Madison by three miles but passed through Herman. Herman's close proximity to the trains put Madison's status as county seat in jeopardy. Consequently, Madison residents decided to relocate their town to a new 320 acre plot owned by Mr. and Mrs. C.B. Kennedy, which was in the railroad's path. When railroad officials favored Madison over Herman, the two communities decided to merge into one, thus forming the present city of ``new'' Madison. Madison grew rapidly. The move to the new town began in August, 1880, when the J.H. Law building was transported from old Madison into new Madison. Dyer Hardware and the P.H. Harth General Store quickly followed. By the end of 1880, Madison boasted two general stores, a drug store, a livery barn, a blacksmith shop, a carpenter shop, three saloons, and a millinery store. The area's first newspaper, the Lake County Leader, was established by F.C. Stowe in Herman. In 1880, Stowe moved the printing press to Madison, and in the spring of 1881, Stowe sold the Leader. After passing through a few hands, James F. Stahl eventually purchased the paper. Stahl converted the weekly paper into a daily publication in 1890. Madison's second paper, the Madison Sentinel, began in old Madison in April, 1879 by Joe H. Zane and F.L. Fifield. The Leader and Sentinel were competitors until 1937, when the two combined to form the Madison Daily Leader. Since 1947, the Hunter family has published the Madison Daily Leader, and to this day the paper continues to provide residents with accurate and reliable news coverage. Among Madison's notable attributes is its public library. In 1905, town residents held a meeting and decided to create the facility. Quickly thereafter, the community raised money, donated books, and secured a room in the building of Mr. John Warren's new bank. The Madison Free Public Library opened its doors in December of that year. Meanwhile, George R. Farmer had been working with Andrew Carnegie to secure additional funds for a library. One month after the opening of the Madison Free Public Library, Farmer received word from Carnegie's private secretary that Carnegie would donate $10,000 to erect a public library if the city would provide and maintain a suitable site for the building. A site was selected and construction quickly began. On Thursday, November 12, 1907, the new Madison Library opened. In 1960 and 1980, improvements were made to the building. Yet these modifications pale in comparison to the major renovations undertaken in 1994, when the size of the library was increased by 400 percent with a striking architecturally compatible addition. The facility now houses 48,055 books and more than 3,500 audiovisual materials. Like most communities in the Dakotas, Madison's history is not without its share of tragedy and hardship. On July 4, 1919, ``The Reliance,'' a touring boat used to take people around Lake Madison, set out with a group of 32 passengers to view the fireworks from the water. The ship headed across the lake to hug the shoreline as it always did. Sadly, it struck a sunken tree about 80 to 100 feet off shore. The passengers on board panicked and rushed to one side of the vessel, causing it to capsize. Nine people, including the engineer, drowned in that tragic accident. Similarly, on the night of April 11, 1980, the Hotel Park caught fire and burned for nearly 8 hours, killing four people. The blaze was so difficult to contain that the National Guardsmen, who were on their weekend drill in Madison, were called in to assist the exhausted firefighters the following morning. Despite these adversities, this resilient community has always managed to recover, rebuild and prosper. Madison is home to Dakota State University, DSU, founded in 1881 by William H. Beadle. DSU is recognized nationally as a leader in computer and information systems. Additionally, Karl Mundt was a notable DSU faculty member. Not only was Mr. Mundt an extraordinary speech and social science teacher, but he also served in Congress longer than any other South Dakotan. Elected to the House of Representatives in 1938, he remained a Congressman until 1948, when he took office as U.S. Senator from South Dakota. Senator Mundt held that post until 1972, having served 34 years in Congress. The sense of community, moral fortitude, perseverance, and enduring work ethic that is evident in the people and the history of Madison stands as a testament to the integrity of all South Dakotans. It is my honor to acknowledge the proud residents of Madison, as they celebrate 125 years of history.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I rise today to express my opposition to the Central American Free Trade Agreement, CAFTA. The United States Congress has been waiting for over a year to consider this agreement which was signed on May 28, 2004, because of the contentious nature of many of the agreement's provisions. It is those provisions that I rise today to address. Ethanol is an incredibly important industry in my home State of South Dakota. It is imperative for facilitating additional market opportunities for producers in the State and adding value to agricultural commodities. CAFTA maintains the ethanol provisions contained in the Caribbean Basin Initiative, CBI, which allows CBI countries to export up to 7 percent of the U.S. ethanol market duty- free containing no local feedstocks. Under these provisions, I am concerned that Central American countries may function as conduits for South American ethanol. El Salvador and Costa Rica, in particular, are granted generous carve-outs from the total ethanol allotments under CAFTA. El Salvador will eventually be allowed .7 percent of the U.S. market, and Costa Rica will be allowed twice what they are currently importing into the U.S. under CAFTA. I have worked tirelessly with my Senate colleagues to ensure an eight billion gallon Renewable Fuels Standard, RFS, in the Senate version of the Energy bill. As our United States ethanol market increases, so to, under this agreement, does the quantity of the market afforded to CAFTA countries--or afforded to ethanol en route to the U.S. through CAFTA countries for a quick and easy reprieve from tariffs. Foreign producers of ethanol will find the U.S. even more attractive with an 8 billion gallon RFS, and I am concerned for the impact that this, and future trade agreements, will have on the ethanol industry. I simply cannot support an agreement that may undermine one of the most important industries in my home state, and set a dangerous precedent for future agreements of this nature. Specifically, producers have expressed concerns for the pending Free Trade Area of the Americas, and the impact that CAFTA will have on this potentially detrimental agreement. The sugar provisions are troubling as well, and have been a marked point of contention causing controversy among agriculture groups. I continue to hear from producers in my home State who are concerned with the potential impact of displaced sugar acres from this agreement, as the treatment of sugar will impact numerous commodities in South Dakota. Producers are concerned that displaced sugar acres will lead to increased corn and soybean acres, depressing commodity prices for corn and soybeans. Parts of this agreement are still being negotiated, specifically with respect to the sugar compensation mechanism to ensure we have not imported more than 1.5 million tons of sugar, and I fail to see how we can adopt an agreement with so many outstanding questions. Secretary Johanns indicated that a few possible compensation mechanisms existed for the sugar industry, which the sugar industry has thoroughly rejected. The Secretary actually proposed purchasing sugar that would otherwise surpass the trigger limit and use that sugar for nonfood items, specifically ethanol production. Using foreign sugar to produce ethanol is an incredible, and outrageous proposal. It will only function to displace a hard-earned market for domestic corn producers. Instead of offering a reasonable solution to the sugar industry, the administration is now persisting to sacrifice domestic commodities to placate opposition to this incredibly flawed agreement. Alternatively, U.S. agricultural commodities may be offered up as compensation for undesired sugar from CAFTA countries. And both of these proposed compensation mechanisms are temporary, through the life of the Farm bill only. The administration is persisting with this Band-aid approach, while offering no real or meaningful solutions. CAFTA fails to address key labor issues and environmental standards. Under CAFTA, countries are not obligated to uphold International Labor Organization, ILO, laws and the agreement fails to include enforceable labor standards. The agreement states that countries should ``strive to'' ensure their labor laws are comparable to international labor laws, but includes no enforcement mechanisms. This effectively renders the aforementioned laws meaningless. The agreement speaks to the enforcement of domestic labor laws--the enforcement of domestic labor laws, however, that are held to no particular standard. Aside from an ethical and moral dilemma, this agreement also functions to highlight an economic dilemma. The lack of labor standards will arguably present a competitive advantage over U.S. companies that are observing labor standards and ensuring, quite simply, the humane treatment of their employees. Myriad reports exist that detail the harsh and unforgiving conditions workers are subjected to in countries with lax, or nonexistent, labor standards. According to ILO estimates, 17 million children between the ages of 5 to 14 are part of the working population in Central American countries. These children all too often miss out on any type of formal schooling because they are responsible for earning a meager salary, just a few dollars, to contribute to their family's income. These dire economic circumstances only function to illustrate the weakened labor standards that CAFTA will, effectively, endorse and sanction. International human rights organizations have repeatedly criticized labor standards in CAFTA countries, and this agreement does nothing to remedy this. Additionally, these circumstances underscore an inability on the part of CAFTA countries to purchase a substantive amount of American commodities. Additionally, the environmental standards in CAFTA are troubling. Countries will be deterred from instituting meaningful environmental regulations when they may be held accountable for any inconveniences that foreign investors experience. International tribunals will enable foreign investors to challenge meaningful environmental regulations and rules that were instituted to preserve the environment. Foreign investors may expect and seek monetary compensation. I voted against the North American Free Trade Agreement, NAFTA, because I was concerned for the detrimental impacts on our rural communities and for the preservation of rural America. I continue to hear from producers in South Dakota who are concerned for the impacts of NAFTA on our economy, and I am concerned for the proposed expansion of this model under CAFTA. Producers are simply tired of seeing the unrecognized trade benefits promised under these trade agreements.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I rise to discuss an issue of great importance to producers and consumers in my home State of South Dakota and across the Nation. Mandatory country of origin labeling, COOL, remains an overwhelmingly popular provision not only as a consumer right-to-know issue, but also as a marketing tool for our Nation's farmers and ranchers. Mandatory country of origin labeling was signed into law under this most recent Farm Bill and by this current President. As the primary author of the COOL language included in the 2002 Farm Bill, I am increasingly frustrated at the amount of heel dragging this Administration has shown for the program. I rise to introduce a bill to move forward with the implementation of mandatory COOL in a timely and reasonable manner, instating a January 30, 2006 mandatory date of implementation. COOL has experienced great bipartisan support in the Senate. I am pleased that Senator Craig Thomas joins me in this bipartisan effort, as does Senator Mike Enzi, Senator Byron Dorgan, and Senator Conrad Burns. I worked with my Senate colleagues to ensure that no delay language was included in the Senate version of the fiscal year 2006 Agriculture Appropriations Bill that was reported out of committee. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and specifically, the Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee, I worked with my Senate colleagues to ensure we assembled a satisfactory bill that did not contain the same delay language as found in the House agriculture spending measure. The House fiscal year 2006 Agriculture Appropriations Bill contained a 1- year delay for meat and meat products, which is identical to the situation that unfolded with the program in fiscal year 2004. While the House version of the fiscal year 2004 spending bill contained a 1-year delay for meat and meat products exclusively, the final omnibus contained a 2-year delay for all covered commodities except fish and shellfish. During closed door consideration of the measure, Senate leadership chose to bow to special interest groups despite the significant support COOL experiences from the majority of consumers and producers. While I was pleased to see the Senate version of the fiscal year 2006 bill that we reported out of committee contained $3.111 million for an audit-based compliance program for COOL implementation, the United States Department of Agriculture, USDA, Agricultural Marketing Service, AMS, will need substantive funding for the implementation of the full program. While the money funds an audit- based compliance program exclusively for fish and shellfish, additional dollars are needed for the inclusion of all covered commodities. Mandatory COOL for fish and shellfish was implemented on April 4, 2005. USDA instituted a six month phase-in period to ensure adequate time for compliance, and the Department promulgated an interim final rule on September 30, 2004. Given this process, I see no reason why the Department should not proceed with the promulgation of the interim final rule for all covered commodities at the earliest possible time. If the implementation date is moved to January 30, 2006, then producers and consumers will at least see benefits under the program by late summer of 2006. Producers and consumers have waited long enough for program implementation, and it is high time USDA move forward with the implementation of this crucial program.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I rise to discuss an issue of great importance to producers and consumers in my home State of South Dakota and across the Nation. Mandatory country of origin labeling, COOL, remains an overwhelmingly popular provision not only as a consumer right-to-know issue, but also as a marketing tool for our Nation's farmers and ranchers. Mandatory country of origin labeling was signed into law under this most recent Farm Bill and by this current President. As the primary author of the COOL language included in the 2002 Farm Bill, I am increasingly frustrated at the amount of heel dragging this Administration has shown for the program. I rise to introduce a bill to move forward with the implementation of mandatory COOL in a timely and reasonable manner, instating a January 30, 2006 mandatory date of implementation. COOL has experienced great bipartisan support in the Senate. I am pleased that Senator Craig Thomas joins me in this bipartisan effort, as does Senator Mike Enzi, Senator Byron Dorgan, and Senator Conrad Burns. I worked with my Senate colleagues to ensure that no delay language was included in the Senate version of the fiscal year 2006 Agriculture Appropriations Bill that was reported out of committee. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and specifically, the Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee, I worked with my Senate colleagues to ensure we assembled a satisfactory bill that did not contain the same delay language as found in the House agriculture spending measure. The House fiscal year 2006 Agriculture Appropriations Bill contained a 1- year delay for meat and meat products, which is identical to the situation that unfolded with the program in fiscal year 2004. While the House version of the fiscal year 2004 spending bill contained a 1-year delay for meat and meat products exclusively, the final omnibus contained a 2-year delay for all covered commodities except fish and shellfish. During closed door consideration of the measure, Senate leadership chose to bow to special interest groups despite the significant support COOL experiences from the majority of consumers and producers. While I was pleased to see the Senate version of the fiscal year 2006 bill that we reported out of committee contained $3.111 million for an audit-based compliance program for COOL implementation, the United States Department of Agriculture, USDA, Agricultural Marketing Service, AMS, will need substantive funding for the implementation of the full program. While the money funds an audit- based compliance program exclusively for fish and shellfish, additional dollars are needed for the inclusion of all covered commodities. Mandatory COOL for fish and shellfish was implemented on April 4, 2005. USDA instituted a six month phase-in period to ensure adequate time for compliance, and the Department promulgated an interim final rule on September 30, 2004. Given this process, I see no reason why the Department should not proceed with the promulgation of the interim final rule for all covered commodities at the earliest possible time. If the implementation date is moved to January 30, 2006, then producers and consumers will at least see benefits under the program by late summer of 2006. Producers and consumers have waited long enough for program implementation, and it is high time USDA move forward with the implementation of this crucial program.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, it is with great honor that I rise today to congratulate the McCrossan Boys Ranch of Sioux Falls, SD, as it celebrates 50 years of outstanding service on June 29, 2005. Established by Melinda Bell McCrossan, as the result of trust she created in honor of her late husband, the McCrossan Boys Ranch is a private, not-for-profit organization ``dedicated to providing a place for boys to grow into men.'' Since its inception, Mrs. McCrossan determined that the ranch would be ``a home where boys find a new hope for a better life.'' In 1953, money from the trust was used to purchase four hospital buildings from the Sioux Falls Air Force Base that had been used during World War II. The buildings were transported 8 miles northwest of Sioux Falls, to the current location of the McCrossan Ranch. In 1955, the McCrossan Boys Ranch came to fruition as a working horse and sheep ranch designed to help boys between the ages of 10 and 18 handle the conflict in their lives and successfully live up their own potential. Education has always been one of the ranch's top priorities, as the organization stresses formal education, which includes academic and vocational instruction, as well as productive work and life skills. Prior to 1978, all residents on the ranch attended local public schools. However, now that the ranch operates its own on-campus approved special education program through a partnership with East Dakota Educational Cooperative, 85 percent of all residents attend the ranch's school. The other 15 percent attend local public schools, as reintegration into the public school system is the ranch's ultimate goal for all the boys. Although residents are there for a myriad of reasons, the McCrossan Boys Ranch makes certain to provide each student with ample individual attention, in addition to the required weekly group goals sessions. Anger management, corrective thinking, victim empathy and various other issues are also addressed through these workshops. In early 2004, McCrossan Boys Ranch received national accreditation from the American Corrections Association, with a 99.6 percent rating. This honor makes the ranch one of only three correctional facilities in all of South Dakota to hold this prestigious accreditation. In fact, only 1,500 correctional organizations throughout the Nation maintain this accreditation. I am proud to have this opportunity to recognize the McCrossan Boys Ranch for its 50 years of outstanding service. It is an honor for me to share with my colleagues the exemplary leadership and strong commitment to education McCrossan Boys Ranch provides. I strongly commend their years of hard work and dedication, and I am very pleased that their substantial efforts are being publicly honored and celebrated.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, it is with great pride that I stand today in recognition of the long career of public service had by a very special woman, Aberdeen City Commissioner Pat Klabo, who is retiring from her position on June 30 after 18 years of dedicated service in city government. A tireless advocate for the health and well-being of her community, Commissioner Klabo's presence will surely be missed by residents of South Dakota's third-largest city. Commissioner Klabo's rise to prominence in local government was not something preordained. As in most stories of American democracy, her call to lead was motivated not by personal ambition or pedigree but by the calls of those around her to take up the mantel of leadership. Her first foray into public service began when these calls of concerned citizens were beckoning her to bid for the Aberdeen mayor's office back in 1987. After a spirited campaign, she was defeated by fellow city commissioner Tim Rich, but was then appointed to fill out the remainder of Mr. Rich's term. Ever since that appointment, Commissioner Klabo has become a veritable fixture in Aberdeen politics. In her position as commissioner of the water and wastewater departments for the last 17 years, Commissioner Klabo has proven to be a very capable leader on a number of issues that impact the vitality of both Aberdeen and the entirety of northeastern South Dakota. She was instrumental in overseeing the improvements made to Aberdeen's water treatment plant, an act that will prove key to the city's prospects for growth in the new millennium. Commissioner Klabo also oversaw the city's expanded use and development of wells on private lands, a partnership between public service and private enterprise that has proven beneficial to all in the community. Even with such dedication to local government, Commissioner Klabo still somehow finds the time and energy to engage in other pursuits that benefit the community. Her work as a part of the group Persons With Disabilities is a prime example of this. Forty years of service helping some of society's most vulnerable individuals speaks to the highest character of humanity. Commissioner Klabo is also a founding member of the Aberdeen Mayor's Committee for Persons with Disabilities, a body on which she has now served for more than a decade. In this position, she has ensured that people with disabilities have a voice at the table when important decisions are made at city hall. It is my great pleasure to share a few words about Ms. Klabo's accomplishments with my colleagues and to note in the public records her contributions to my home State. It will be difficult to lose such a committed civil servant, especially one who has proven to be such an asset to her community. On the behalf of all South Dakotans, I would like to wish her the very best for her retirement.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, today I wish to honor and publicly recognize the 100th anniversary of the founding of the town of Stickney, SD. On July 4, 2005, Stickney residents look back on their community's proud past and look forward to a promising future. Located in southeastern South Dakota in Aurora County, Stickney was platted August 17, 1905. Like many towns in South Dakota, Stickney got its start with help from the railroad, specifically the Milwaukee Railroad. In fact, the town was named for the oldest railroad agent in the United States, John B. Stickney of Mazomanie, Wisconsin. Just before Christmas, 1905, construction of the tracks was finally complete. Shortly thereafter, on January 1, 1906, ``Maude,'' the line's first train, ventured into town. Following Maude's arrival, Stickney quickly flourished. By mid-1906, the town boasted three lumber companies, two hardware stores, two livery barns, a funeral home, a general store, a post office, a hotel, a pool hall, a blacksmith shop, two banks, and four grain elevators. On June 29, 1906, John McNeil published Stickney's first newspaper, Postal Card. Not long after its inception, McNeil sold the paper to J.S. Schuldt, who converted the printing shop into a schoolhouse. Grade school classes were held in the rear of the building, while high school classes were taught in the front. This establishment, like the paper, was also short lived, as a new school was constructed in 1907 to better accommodate the rapidly increasing number of students. In the century since its founding, Stickney has proven its ability to thrive. Stickney's more than 300 proud residents celebrate the community's 100th anniversary on July 4, 2005, and it is with great pleasure that I share with my colleagues the history of this great community.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I rise today to honor and publicly recognize the 100th anniversary of Corsica, SD. It is at this time that I would like to draw attention to and commemorate the achievements and history of this charming city on the South Dakota prairie, which stands as an enduring tribute to the fortitude and pioneer spirit of the Dakotans. Corsica, located in northern Douglas County in southeastern South Dakota, was founded out of a need to service a new railroad built several miles from the existing towns of Harrison and Armour. On August 17, 1905, Corsica officially became a town when 25 acres of prairie where auctioned off to the highest bidders. It was suggested by several of the railroad company's employees that the town be named Corsica in honor of the island of Corsica, their native home, and the new residents agreed. Corsica grew rapidly and within weeks included the Floete Lumber Company, a grocery store, the Hafsaas boarding house, Corsica State Bank, Farmers State Bank, a newspaper office, and several restaurants. The town was incorporated on January 24, 1905, and local elections quickly followed to select city officials. After 2 years, Corsica's population was estimated at nearly 500 people, and the town then boasted three general stores, a furniture store, two newspapers, two hotels, two livery stables, two churches, a water system, and a public hall. The history of Corsica is, however, marked with its share of tragedy, as well. On October 16, 1907, the first fire of which there is a record burned one of the town's most prosperous businesses to the ground. John Van Ommeren's livery barn was completely destroyed and five horses, several buggies, and other personal belongings were all lost. Additionally, 8 years later, on July 15, 1915, a tornado struck the community, resulting in severe damage. Despite the devastation, Corsica's dedicated and resilient residents committed themselves to the rebuilding effort with undaunted determination. One of Corsica's unique landmarks is the Priscilla Club Library, established in 1912. The library began as a book club, the Priscilla Club, comprised of 12 women sharing a dozen books between themselves. It evolved into an organization of women selling their embroidery and holding suppers in order to raise funds and purchase additional volumes. This small but well intentioned club amassed an immense collection of literature and cultural artifacts requiring an entire building to accommodate it all. The library now houses more than 10,500 books and hundreds of audiovisual materials. For a community of only 625 residents, this collection is a tremendous accomplishment and treasure. Through the years, the proud residents of Corsica have demonstrated great flexibility and perseverance in their ability to thrive on the prairie of the Dakotas. I take this opportunity to recognize the history of the small city of Corsica and congratulate its residents as they celebrate their vibrant, century-long history on July 2-4, 2005.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. May I direct a question to my colleague from Massachusetts?

Mr. JOHNSON. Is it your view that Mr. Rove understands that the men and women in uniform in Afghanistan and Iraq are Republicans and Democrats in political registration and political philosophy, but they are Americans working together to protect us, to protect our Nation? As my friend from Massachusetts knows, my oldest son, a staff sergeant in the U.S. Army, served in combat--he is a Democrat--in Afghanistan and Iraq. There is no political division among those young men and women fighting and endangering their lives each and every day in those countries. They are responding to the call of their country, to endanger their lives. They fought heroically, Republicans and Democrats alike. For anyone to suggest that there are differences of motive about protecting America, about responding to 9/11, is beyond the pale. Do you believe Mr. Rove understands that or do you believe that he honestly thinks that the defense of this country is a partisan issue?

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to honor Mrs. Hazel Hanon and the incredible work that she has done over these past 60 years with the Marshall Post No. 3507 Ladies Auxiliary of Britton, SD. Hazel gained membership to the auxiliary sponsorship of both her husband, Leon, who served in the U.S. Navy during WWII, and her brother, Dempsy, also a WWII veteran and member of the U.S. Air Force. As one of the auxiliary's charter members, save for a short hiatus in her membership, Hazel as been with Marshall Post No. 3507 since is founding in 1945. Despite the auxiliary's declining membership over the past few years, it is clear the organization and Hazel are still wholeheartedly committed to supporting America's brave war heroes. Over the years the auxiliary has hosted Post Suppers, served banquets, sold poppies, organized bake sales, compiled and sold cookbooks, and even run an annual Turkey Raffle during Thanksgiving, all to raise money for our Nation's veterans. Proceeds from these events are then donated to VA Hospitals or used to buy supplies so the women can bake cookies and cakes and then personally deliver the goodies to veterans in hospitals throughout South Dakota. Since the post's founding, Hazel has been extremely giving of her time, and her generosity will forever be appreciated. I am pleased that her dedication and patriotism are being publicly recognized, and I am certain that Hazel's achievements and commitment to the auxiliary will serve as inspiration to future generations of passionate and patriotic South Dakotans. Mr. President, Hazel Hanon is a remarkable person who richly deserves this distinguished recognition. I strongly commend her years of work and dedication, and it is with great honor that I share her impressive accomplishments with my colleagues.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, it is with great honor that I rise today to publicly commend Grace Siers, charter member of Marshall Post No. 3507 Ladies Auxiliary in Britton, SD, for her many years of devoted service to our Nation's veterans. Sixty years ago, in 1945, Grace joined the VFW Ladies Auxiliary, and has been an irreplaceable asset to the organization ever since. Grace is part of a long line of military patriots, as she joined the auxiliary under the sponsorship of her husband, William Siers, who served in WWI, as well as her three brothers, Vance, John, and Clarence Hunscher, all veterans of WWII. Not surprisingly, the tradition of serving our country continues with Grace's five sons, Le Roy, Donald, Virgil, Gary, and Robert, and even her grandson and granddaughter, all of whom served in the military. Regrettably, her son, Robert, died while fighting in Vietnam. Although decades have passed and auxiliary members are no longer as active as they once were, Grace's hard work and dedication over the years enabled the auxiliary to raise thousands of dollars, bring smiles to the faces of countless injured and recovering veterans, and educate innumerable South Dakotans about the importance of supporting America's brave veterans. In early years, Grace recalls hosting Post Suppers, serving banquets, selling poppies, organizing bake sales, compiling and selling cookbooks, and even manning the post during the annual Turkey Raffle on Thanksgiving, all to raise money for the auxiliary. In turn, the funds were donated to VA hospitals and used to buy supplies so the women could bake cookies and cakes and then personally deliver the goodies to veterans in hospitals throughout South Dakota. Grace's tremendous contributions to the Britton community set her apart from other outstanding citizens. Her extraordinary service and commitment to Marshall Post No. 3507 Ladies Auxiliary is to be commended. Through Grace's remarkable community involvement and dedication to America's veterans, the lives of countless South Dakotans have been enormously enhanced. Her wonderful example serves as a model for other hardworking and dedicated individuals throughout South Dakota to emulate. Grace Siers is an extraordinary woman who richly deserves this distinguished recognition. I strongly commend her years of hard work and dedication, and I am very pleased that her substantial efforts are being publicly honored and celebrated. It is with great pleasure that I share her impressive accomplishments with my colleagues.