Tim Johnson

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I speak about the Smithsonian's new Museum of the American Indian. In June 1989, when I was still a Member of the House of Representatives, I cosponsored legislation to establish the National Museum of the American Indian within the Smithsonian Institution. The 15-year odyssey for this museum has presented us with more than just items behind glass. This museum tells the story of North and South Americas' native peoples. It shows their journey through time and gives optimism for the future. First, I thank all those who have been involved since this process began so many years ago, in particular, Senators Inouye and Campbell, the original sponsors of this bill. The efforts of thousands of people, both Native and non-native, are reflected in the magnificent structure commemorating the lives of the first Americans. I also thank the thousands of participants who have come from all over the Western Hemisphere to be a part of this historic museum opening, especially those Lakota, Dakota, and Nakota peoples who have made the journey from the Great Plains and particularly South Dakota. Those that have made the trip have shared with us the richness and beauty of their cultures. I recently had the opportunity to tour the museum, and I am so proud to see the Native people of South Dakota represented in the museum. I am particularly contented to see that the exhibits are displayed in a manner where the tribes are able to see their story from their own point of view. This museum will forever grace the national mall in our Nation's Capitol from the serenity gardens created to surround the museum to the heart of the building's Potomac gathering place. It will take its visitors through time by allowing native people to tell their own story. I also take this opportunity to speak of the future. With the ever changing roles of the United States government and Indian Tribes, it is imperative we constantly examine paths that strengthen that relationship. In regards to this relationship, I often hear of the tribal sovereignty and the obligations of the United States Government and its treaty and trust responsibilities. With health care in Indian Country funded at 50 percent its necessary levels and schools that are decades past their usefulness, I think that we need to take a serious look at these responsibilities. We need to do more to combat the deplorable conditions that many of our native peoples are subjected, and to develop a plan to alleviate these hardships. Forever, this museum will grace our national mall. With this new beginning and its reflections of the past, we must now look to the future, the future of Indian country.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I today publicly recognize the importance of National Hispanic Heritage Month. This 30-day observance begins September 15th, the independence day of five Latin American countries, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua, and includes Mexico's Independence Day, September 16, as well as Chile's day of Independence, September 18. Despite that Hispanic Americans have played important roles in our great nation for the last five centuries, it wasn't until the 1960s that this legislative body officially honored the Hispanic ethnic legacy. In 1968 Congress voted to name the week including September 15 and 16 National Hispanic Heritage Week, and in 1988 Congress passed Public Law 100-402, expanding National Hispanic Heritage Week to a 30- day celebration. Hispanic individuals have made immeasurable contributions to America in many fields. Dr. Severo Ochoa discovered RNA, Ribonucleic acid, and as a result won the Nobel Prize and set the foundations of many of today's medical technologies. Cesar Chaves made great strides in worker's rights, and more than three dozen Hispanic Americans have been awarded the Medal of Honor for their military service to our country. America, the great melting pot, has always taken pride in her diversity. Over 10,000 of my constituents are of Hispanic origin, and approximately 40 million Hispanics call America home, making them the United States' largest minority group. It is with great honor that I bring attention to National Hispanic Heritage Month and the contributions of the Hispanic people.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I rise to speak in support of the agricultural disaster assistance package that was included in the Senate Homeland Security Appropriations bill. Many farmers and ranchers in my home State of South Dakota are suffering from their third, fourth and even fifth year of drought. As House and Senate differences are reconciled, I urge the conferees to retain the important disaster provisions that were approved on such a wide bipartisan basis in the Senate. The drought provisions I supported, along with Senator Daschle, will help farmers and ranchers survive a severe drought. While I would have hoped producers wouldn't be faced with a choice for assistance for either 2003 or 2004, I understand that money is short in these times of soaring budget deficits. The Senate disaster assistance plan will provide almost $2.9 billion to farmers and ranchers across the country who are suffering from agricultural disaster. The $475 million for the Livestock Assistance Program, in addition to the $2.464 billion for the Crop Disaster Program, are critical to my State. This drought package was introduced by my colleagues, Senator Baucus and Senator Burns, and with the help of Senator Daschle it was added as an amendment to the fiscal year 2005 Homeland Security funding bill by a voice vote. A voice vote reflects the overwhelming bipartisan support this drought aid package has. It is frustrating that there are members of the House majority party who would reduce or even eliminate disaster aid funding for ailing farmers and ranchers, or choose to gut other crucial agricultural programs to pay for this necessary assistance. In 2002, Senator Daschle and I proposed a $6 billion drought package, which was opposed by the President and some Members of the House. That package was pared down to $3 billion before its passage. The current package is very similar to the package that was approved for the 2001- 2002 drought. Thanks to my colleagues on both sides of the aisle, including Senator Daschle's efforts to secure an opportunity to address this issue, we have a drought package that will allow many family farmers and ranchers to stay in business through this extensive drought. Over 23 groups expressed their support for the disaster assistance provisions in the Homeland Security funding bill for fiscal year 2005 at the beginning of this week, including the National Farmers Union, American Farm Bureau Federation, American Soybean Association, and National Association of Wheat Growers, to name a few. Such wide and strong support not only speaks to the number of producers who require assistance, but also to the merit of the provisions accepted in the Senate bill. Drought is a real disaster and we must treat it as such. I am hopeful that my colleagues in the House realize how important this issue is for our agricultural producers, who are the economic engines of our rural communities and the backbone of our Nation. The Senate passed agricultural disaster assistance in a broad bipartisan manner, and I am hopeful that the House will show their support for America's producers by ensuring agricultural assistance remains at the levels authorized in the Senate bill.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I rise today in support of a bill I am cosponsoring with Senator Daschle. This important piece of legislation would affect the way the Farm Credit Administration, FCA, handles any possible sale of one of its member institutions. This bill would require the FCA to hold hearings in all the States affected by the sale, which is what my good colleague from South Dakota and I have been advocating since the time this proposed termination was announced. Additionally, the bill would prohibit the FCA from approving the termination plan no earlier than 6 months after the initial proposal is submitted. I am pleased to cosponsor this legislation with Senator Daschle as it will give the Farm Credit System, FCS, and affected parties adequate time to discern long-term implications and consequences of the possible sale of an FCS institution. This bill is very timely, in that Rabobank, a Dutch bank, has made a bid to purchase Farm Credit Services of America, a Farm Credit System member bank. This transaction is moving ahead at a rapid pace without any hearings in the affected region of the country which happens to include my home State of South Dakota. One of my greatest concerns about the operation of the FCS is for farmers and ranchers to have the ability to ask questions about the transaction and decide if it is in their best interest to allow the transaction to occur. We must ensure that producers will always be able to have access to affordable credit, and that they are well-informed before they are obligated to vote on the potential termination of the Farm Credit Services of America, FCSA. The Farm Credit System has been in operation in the United States for 88 years and has been serving farmers well. The system was formed to allow farmers and ranchers easy access to credit for purchases that are fundamental to their day-to-day operations. Given the myriad of challenges producers face in our agricultural communities across America, I am greatly concerned that this acquisition would place yet another burden on our ranchers and farmers. I am fully committed to ensuring our producers have adequate access to reliable credit, and support this legislation as a means to achieve that goal. I am hopeful that my Senate colleagues will support this commonsense and imperative legislation.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I rise today in support of a bill I am cosponsoring with Senator Daschle. This important piece of legislation would affect the way the Farm Credit Administration, FCA, handles any possible sale of one of its member institutions. This bill would require the FCA to hold hearings in all the States affected by the sale, which is what my good colleague from South Dakota and I have been advocating since the time this proposed termination was announced. Additionally, the bill would prohibit the FCA from approving the termination plan no earlier than 6 months after the initial proposal is submitted. I am pleased to cosponsor this legislation with Senator Daschle as it will give the Farm Credit System, FCS, and affected parties adequate time to discern long-term implications and consequences of the possible sale of an FCS institution. This bill is very timely, in that Rabobank, a Dutch bank, has made a bid to purchase Farm Credit Services of America, a Farm Credit System member bank. This transaction is moving ahead at a rapid pace without any hearings in the affected region of the country which happens to include my home State of South Dakota. One of my greatest concerns about the operation of the FCS is for farmers and ranchers to have the ability to ask questions about the transaction and decide if it is in their best interest to allow the transaction to occur. We must ensure that producers will always be able to have access to affordable credit, and that they are well-informed before they are obligated to vote on the potential termination of the Farm Credit Services of America, FCSA. The Farm Credit System has been in operation in the United States for 88 years and has been serving farmers well. The system was formed to allow farmers and ranchers easy access to credit for purchases that are fundamental to their day-to-day operations. Given the myriad of challenges producers face in our agricultural communities across America, I am greatly concerned that this acquisition would place yet another burden on our ranchers and farmers. I am fully committed to ensuring our producers have adequate access to reliable credit, and support this legislation as a means to achieve that goal. I am hopeful that my Senate colleagues will support this commonsense and imperative legislation.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, last Tuesday, September 14, the Senate Appropriations Committee reported out the Fiscal Year 2005 Interior Appropriations bill on a unanimous and bipartisan vote. The bill funds several of the Federal agencies that are responsible for managing millions of acres of land in South Dakota, including the U.S. Forest Service, the Fish and Wildlife Service, and the National Park Service. Included in that bill was a provision directing the Corps of Engineers to immediately implement the drought conservation measures outlined in the 2004 Missouri River Master Water Control Manual. This is an important provision that will better balance the competing uses of Missouri River water and, more importantly, bring a sense of equity and fair play to a process long-slanted toward a single group of navigation interests. Perhaps no Federal agency has a more direct impact on South Dakotans than the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The Corps of Engineers has a tough job in South Dakota, balancing a host of competing and, it appears from time to time, mutually exclusive interests. However, on the key issue of managing the Missouri, the Corps has consistently come up short as a steward of America's longest river. With a current water storage rate of 35.9 million acre-feet, the main-stem Missouri River reservoirs are at the lowest level in history. The provision included in the Interior Appropriations bill faces up to this reality by taking a strong step toward conserving our water resources. Unfortunately, yesterday, in an unprecedented maneuver to strike out and cancel the express will of the Appropriations Committee, a provision was inserted in the fiscal year 2005 Veterans, Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations bill that cancels out the drought conservation plan. The proponents of this new provision had already been rebuffed last week when attempting to change the original section. Surely we can find some common ground for the upstream states struggling with the lack of water flow. I expect an uphill battle, but I will do everything I can to fight for the needs of upstream states.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, may I direct a question to my colleague?

Mr. JOHNSON. I want to express my agreement with the observations expressed by my friend and colleague from North Dakota about the tenor of some of the recent attacks directed toward my colleague from South Dakota, Senator Daschle. This is beyond anything we have witnessed in America politics in more than a generation, and perhaps ever, to have an attack in a political campaign essentially accusing a leader of the Senate of conduct bordering on treason. I think Senator Daschle put it well, that based on good values in the way we tend to see things, the observations of this gentleman ought to lead to a trip to the woodshed for the despicable nature of the observations. I believe it would be hard to find anyone in the Senate-- I am sure my colleague from North Dakota would agree with me, Senator Daschle being the only veteran in that particular race, someone who served in the Vietnam era--would Senator Dorgan agree with me that there is virtually no one in the Senate of either party who has been more committed to living up to our obligations to our veterans, to the safety, equipment, and resources of our men and women in uniform? I ask this question of my colleague from North Dakota, as the father of a young man, my oldest son who served in combat in both Afghanistan and most recently in Iraq, a member of the 101st Airborne, my son, who is a very big supporter, a very vocal supporter of Senator Daschle and the importance for the sake of our military and our national security of our State of reelecting him to this important position. But can you think of anyone who has done more, who has provided more leadership, has been more vocal in support of our troops and our military and our Nation's defense than Senator Daschle?

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. We all feel for the enormous damage that has occurred in the State of Florida, and there is great risk that there will be additional damage in other Southern States from these hurricanes. One of the great problems that strikes me about the kinds of disasters we are talking about in the northern plains, where we have had this severe drought year after year after year, and the Missouri River now, I am told, is at the lowest level in living memory, or at least since it was impounded into the Missouri River Dam, one of the characteristics of that kind of disaster is that it is as profound as a hurricane, but it is in slow motion. It does not turn buildings upside down, and it doesn't throw cars around. But what it does to the Earth and the lives of these producers is catastrophic. I am especially pleased with the recently adopted drought provision to the American Jobs Creation Act. With my support, the Senate adopted legislation authored by Senator Daschle that would provide increased flexibility for livestock producers to rebuild their herd after drought. The legislation extends the amount of time from two to four years that producers have to reinvest an amount equivalent to the sale of cattle into their farm through the purchase of machinery or equipment with no tax owed whatsoever. Unfortunately, the American Jobs Creation Act has failed to emerge from conference so that it can be voted on by this body. I am hopeful that we will see this bill emerge from conference soon, and that this exceptionally beneficial provision will be included. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) released $1.9 million in unused Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) funding for stopgap water hauling measures, and authorized emergency grazing on Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) acres in limited counties across the country. In South Dakota, only parts of a few counties have qualified for emergency grazing. These measures fail to provide any substantive relief for our agriculture producers during an exceedingly challenging time. I am also concerned for the Agriculture Secretary's recent decision regarding emergency nonfat dry milk assistance. Although nine states and 95 counties were included in this program, South Dakota was excluded from this assistance. In 2002 and 2003, Senator Daschle and I pushed for a $6 billion drought relief plan that would have helped many farmers and ranchers make it through this multi-year drought. President Bush and others in the Senate opposed our proposal and in the end, would only allow a $3 billion package to pass. While it has taken an enormous amount of time and effort to secure bipartisan support for relief in such a harsh budgetary year, I am pleased to see that Senators from both sides of the aisle recognize the importance of ensuring that victims of agriculture disaster are deserving of a comprehensive assistance package. I am pleased to support this amendment and am hopeful for the impact on South Dakota agriculture. I have walked across fields of South Dakota that frankly look like a moonscape, where there is nothing growing. It is simply dirt. Stock dams where there is either no water, or the water is of such poor quality, it is so murky that it would be a mistake to allow cattle even near the water. In fact, there are stories of pulling cattle out with a tractor because they get mired in the mud. It would seem to me that this disaster, although different in nature than the others, is equally as profound, equally as damaging, and has an equally long-term negative consequence on those who are victimized as any other disaster that may be striking America today. Does my colleague see it in that perspective?

Mr. JOHNSON. May I put a question to my colleague?

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I honor and publicly recognize the 125th anniversary of the founding of the city of Avon, SD. The city of Avon looks back on a proud history and looks forward to a promising future. Taking its name from a post office run out of the nearby home of Mr. and Mrs. George Phoenix, the city of Avon grew out of the 1879 expansion of the Chicago, Milwaukee, and St. Paul Railroad. Prosperous agriculture in the western part of Bon Homme County led farmers and ranchers to seek expanded markets for their goods. Railroad officials, in turn, recognized the value of building a branch line from Napa to Platte to serve this need, and some 500 workers began the arduous task of laying the new line through the area. The start of work was closely followed by the opening of a saloon by Joe Sterba that would find its home in Avon's first permanent commercial building by 1900. Other businesses quickly joined the saloon, and Avon was soon a thriving community serving the agricultural region that surrounded it. For most of its 125 years, the city of Avon has been served by the weekly newspaper, the Avon Clarion, which began publication in the winter of 1901. In an article that year, the paper boasted that Avon had, ``without exception, the brightest and most encouraging future of any town along this line.'' In the 125 years since its founding, Avon has proven its ability to thrive and serve farmers and ranchers in the region. Currently, more than 550 people live in the city of Avon. It is with great honor that I advise my colleagues of the achievements made by this great community.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I honor and publicly recognize the 125th anniversary of the founding of the town of Scotland, SD. The town of Scotland has a proud past and promising future. Like many towns in South Dakota, Scotland got its start with help from the railroad. Scotland was originally founded in 1870 on a site near Dawson Creek. However, in 1879, with the approach of the Chicago, Milwaukee,and St. Paul Railroad, it became necessary for Scotland to be relocated to the upland prairie. The town still stands on this second site. General Charles T. Campbell and John Stafford are credited with the founding of Scotland. General Campbell was of Scottish ancestry and that's how the name came about. He was a distinguished soldier in both the Mexican and Civil Wars. In 1867, he was assigned to Dakota Territory as an inspector for Indian agencies. It was at this time, while traveling for his duties as inspector, that General Campbell discovered the ideal location on Dawson Creek to build a trading post and inn on the Firesteel Stage Coach line that ran between Firesteel, near present-day Mitchell, and Yankton. General Campbell's original buildings established the nucleus from which the town of Scotland soon evolved. John Stafford arrived with his family from Canada in 1872. Mr. Stafford is important to the development of Scotland because he donated eighty acres of land for the new town site. In the next decade, more than 100 families moved to the area, and most of them were of English, especially Scottish, descent. The relocation of the town in 1879 escalated the growth of Scotland. The year 1873 heralded the arrival of a large population of German-Russian immigrants. The years from 1885- 1891 was the golden age of development for Scotland. During that time Scotland boasted the largest flax market in the United States and the world's largest tow mill. Scotland is also proud to be the hometown of United States astronaut Charles Gemar. Currently, about 1,000 people reside in Scotland. It is with great honor that I advise my colleagues of the achievements made by this great community.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I honor and publicly recognize the 100th anniversary of the founding of the town of Herrick, SD. The town of Herrick has a strong sense of its past and anticipates a bright future. Though it was originally named Willette, the town adopted the name of prestigious homestead lawyer Samuel Herrick soon after its 1904 founding. From 1906 to 1907, Herrick experienced a period of growth as it served as a stop along the railroad. Many of the original buildings in the town still stand, including the Town Hall built in 1913, which has been restored and is in use, and the old saloon, which has since become a family restaurant and bar. Two other structures find themselves on the National Register of Historic Places: the Herrick School House and Herrick Elevator. Herrick's 105 proud residents and friends of the community celebrated the centennial at the end of July with festivities including an all- school reunion, the annual Squeal Meal celebration, and a hayride featuring buildings and homes that were built around the time of the founding. It is with great honor that I advise my colleagues of the achievements made by this great community.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I congratulate Jeff Nelson of Madison, SD, for recently celebrating 30 years of distinguished service at East River Electric. Jeff Nelson understands the word dedication. Mr. Nelson was born and raised in Marion, SD, where he attended high school. After graduating from South Dakota State University in 1971 with a degree in electrical engineering, he entered the U.S. Army and was stationed in Germany. From 1971 to 1974, he served as an officer in the U.S. Army's Armored Division. After honorably serving, he and his wife, Trudi, relocated to Madison where he started working for East River Electric. I know first hand that Jeff has done a great deal to improve the lives of countless South Dakotans. He is a tremendously talented man with a great deal of energy and ambition. He is not only a good friend, but a person who may staff and I deal with closely. As general manager of East River Electric since 1990, he has earned the respect and admiration of all those who have had the opportunity to work with him. East River Electric is a power supply cooperative which serves wholesale electricity to 22 member systems, which in turn serve over 82,000 homes and businesses. The 36,000 square mile service area covers 41 counties in Eastern South Dakota and nine counties in western Minnesota. Jeff's friendly demeanor and wealth of knowledge have helped him develop close relationships with his colleagues and with community leaders throughout our State. This friendly attitude has led to numerous elected posts and honors. He is currently the president of the Mid-West Electric Consumers Association board of directors, Upper Great Plains Region Affiliate of Western States Power Corporation board of directors, chairman of the Power and Water Resources Standing Committee of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, and vice president of the Western States Power Corporation board of directors. Among his many philanthropic efforts are the organizer of the Lake County Food Pantry, treasurer of the East Central South Dakota Habitat for Humanity, and he is on the board of directors for the Lake Area Improvement Corporation. Through it all, Jeff's devotion to his family is his number one priority. Even as his responsibilities at East River Electric changed and grew, his commitment to his family never wavered. Jeff and Trudi have two children, Erik and Katie. Erik and his wife, Stacy, live in Sioux Falls, while Katie resides in nearby Marshall, Minnesota. I congratulate Jeff Nelson for his 30 years of distinguished service. It is with great honor that I share his impressive accomplishments with my colleagues.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I honor and publicly recognize the 100th anniversary of the founding of the town of Burke, SD. The town of Burke has enjoyed a proud past and looks forward to a bright future. Founded in 1904, the town of Burke took its name from Charles Burke of Pierre, who served in the South Dakota legislature, U.S. Congress, and later as U.S. Commissioner of Indian Affairs. Burke was platted as a government townsite and surveyed by Sam Chilton. On August 4, homesteaders gathered in the center of the townsite and raced on foot, on horseback and with wagons to lay their claims to plots in the town. Though the town was born with the sound of the pistol that day, Burke did not experience the boom that many of the other towns in the area did. Burke's growth was slow and purposeful. Early settlers faced and overcame the hardships of South Dakota winters, tedious trips to the nearest railroad town for supplies, the devastation of tornadoes, and even terrorization from gamblers and thugs that had made their way into town. The citizens of Burke cleaned up the rough element and earned a reputation as one of the most peaceable and law-abiding towns in the county. Since 1917, Burke has served as the county seat of Gregory County. The town lies about 30 miles west of the Missouri River in a region of fertile farmland and gently rolling hills. Currently, more than 650 people live in Burke. The town celebrated its centennial birthday with festivities during the first week of August. Among the many events during the 5-day celebration were an alumni golf tournament, a centennial farm dance, a parade, an alumni banquet, a centennial coin auction, and a ballroom dance. It is with great honor that I advise my colleagues of the achievements made by this great community.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I honor and publicly recognize the 125th anniversary of the founding of the town of Tyndall, SD. The town of Tyndall is a spirited and self-reliant county seat with a proud past and promising future. In 1879, the Chicago, Milwaukee, and St. Paul Railway chose to enter Bon Homme County. Dan Currier build the first home and store along the railroad route in Tyndall, so-named for the English physicist John Tyndall who first explained what makes the sky blue. In 1884, Dan Currier opened the Grand Central Hotel, referred to as the greatest hotel this side of Chicago at the time. Mr. Currier remained active in the town's growth and became the first mayor in 1887. The first settlers in Tyndall were predominately German, Czech, and Irish. Their meeting halls were some of the first building in the town of Tyndall and many are preserved today. A major attraction opened in Tyndall in 1989: the Soukup and Thomas Balloon Museum. The museum exhibits one of the best displays of ballooning history, including the first balloon basket to fly over the Soviet Union. The museum also houses a rare collection from the Hindenburg Airship as well as examples of balloon mail, lithographs, jewelry, trophies, and other collectibles. Tyndall hosted the 6th World Gas Balloon Championship and the 1st World Roziere Balloon Championship in 1990. The second annual International Balloon Rally was held in 1991 in Tyndall. Though the railroad which gave birth to the town of Tyndall is no longer operational, the town continues to thrive, relying on friendly local business and aggressive agriculture. Currently 1,200 people reside in this progressive community. It is with great honor that I advise my colleagues of the achievements made by this great community.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I honor and publicly recognize the 100th anniversary of the founding of the town of Lake Andes, SD. Lake Andes has experienced a proud century and looks forward to a promising future. Founded in 1904, the town of Lake Andes sits on the southwest shore of its namesake. Measuring twelve miles in length and a mile and a half wide, Andes Lake is one of the most popular destinations for hunters and fishers in the State and sits at the center of one of the richest and most fertile sections of South Dakota. Though it was platted in 1901, the town was not officially established until three years later, when town lots were sold on May 18, 1904. In 1911, the town welcomed the construction of a Carnegie Library, which still stands and has since been designated a historical structure for the State of South Dakota. Lake Andes became the county seat of Charles Mix County in 1916, prompting growth and prosperity that would lead to more than 80 years of stability in the town. Currently, more than 800 people reside in the town of Lake Andes. In early June, Lake Andes held centennial festivities that coincided with the town's Fish Days celebration, an annual tradition that began in 1915, continued through 1969, and was reestablished in 1988. A parade, carnival, quilt show, and firemen's water fight were among the many celebratory events that weekend. It is with great honor that I advise my colleagues of the achievements made by this great community.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I publicly congratulate Paul Stabile on a very successful career helping individuals with disabilities obtain jobs. He is retiring from the Black Hills Workshop on September 13, 2004. Over the years, Paul has been extraordinarily committed to exploring new roles for people with disabilities in the workforce throughout the United States. Paul began his career with the Black Hills Workshop in 1973 when philosophies about the people with disabilities were making dramatic changes. The de-institutionalization of people with disabilities in South Dakota was reflective of what was happening all over the United States. Paul's friends recall that Paul welcomed dozens of men and women to Black Hills Workshop and the Rapid City community who had spent their entire lives living in an institution in Redfield. Paul offered them support in living, working and assuming a quality of life that people with disabilities had never before known. In 1996, a separate corporation, Black Hills Services, was formed to provide services to the Department of Defense and employment opportunities at Ellsworth Air Force Base. Paul was selected to lead the new corporation. Paul's association with the U.S. Air Force has provided thousands of job opportunities to people with disabilities and provided the Air Force with much-needed support. Paul's partnership with the Air Force has been a shining example to Human Service Agencies around the country for people with disabilities. During Paul's tenure, Black Hills Services, and the people with disabilities that it serves, has been recognized with some of the highest honors that can be bestowed by the Air Force. These awards include Best Large Commissary in the United States, Best Large Merchandise Department-Commissary, R.T. Riney Award, Best Food Services and the prestigious Hennessy Award for Best Air Force Dining Facility Worldwide. Paul also served on the Rapid City Mayor's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities. Paul's leadership has gone beyond South Dakota. From 1996 to 2003, Paul was a member of the NISH Board of Directors where he served as treasurer and secretary. NISH is the nonprofit organization that assists work centers in obtaining and maintaining contracts with the Federal Government. In March 2004, in recognition of Paul's years of service on behalf of NISH, the Javits- Wagner-O'Day, JWOD, Program and people with disabilities, the NISH Board of Directors granted him the status of emeritus Board member. Paul was recently honored with the prestigious Milton ``Milt'' Cohen Leadership Award, which recognizes an individual from a Community Rehabilitation Program, CRP, working within the JWOD Program. The honoree must have demonstrated national leadership qualities leading to enhanced employment opportunities for people with severe disabilities. Milton Cohen was a respected national leader in the field of vocational rehabilitation. I've appreciated Paul's insight, advice and counsel on issues of importance to people with disabilities in South Dakota. His undying commitment and dedication have helped open countless doors of opportunities to people with disabilities. Paul's efforts have helped tear down barriers--barriers set for those set in attitudes. I wish nothing but the best for him and his family. It is with great honor that I share his impressive accomplishments with my colleagues.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I rise to discuss the Morocco-United States free-trade agreement, FTA, and the impact this bilateral free trade agreement will have on agricultural producers in my State of South Dakota. While I retain concerns on a number of agreements negotiated under Trade Promotion Authority, TPA, as part of fast track trade negotiations navigated by the current administration, I see a potential positive impact on the South Dakota economy from a number of provisions in this agreement. I am pleased that the needs of many sectors in our agricultural community were accounted for while hammering out the terms included in this FTA. I am disappointed at the recent passage of the Australian free-trade agreement, AFTA, which seriously weakens our ability to foster growth in the agricultural sector. It is concerning that the adoption of the AFTA will hinder the retention of our agriculture producers, exacerbate supply, and consequently undermine our Federal price support programs. When dealing with sensitively priced commodities and a delicate supply and demand balance, I believe we must prudently evaluate the economic ramifications from any proposed trade agreement. I am concerned for the rural communities in my home state of South Dakota, and I will continue to evaluate trade agreements on a case by case basis to ascertain the potential benefits and negative impacts. Despite these concerns, I am pleased to see that the Moroccan free- trade agreement holds promise and provides a number of potentially rewarding terms for United States producers and ranchers. The agreement encompasses a wide variety of commodities that are important to the health of the rural economy in South Dakota, including beef, soybeans, wheat, corn and sorghum. As in the case of beef, for example, increasing market access under this agreement is imperative for ensuring our producers and ranchers maintain ample opportunity for promoting quality American beef. This opportunity will be facilitated by a low in-tariff quota that will promptly be zeroed out. As in the case of soybeans, duties on soybeans used for processing will cease immediately. Duties on soybeans for processed soy products and other uses will be reduced by half in the first year, and eliminated entirely within a 5-year timeframe. Additionally, wheat will benefit from this bilateral FTA. Fluctuating weather conditions present problematic conditions for Moroccan farmers, and as a significant wheat importer, a beneficial trading relationship can be established from increased market access to the Kingdom of Morocco. While I retain reservations about the direction the administration's free trade agenda has taken, I am pleased that a free trade agreement has been proposed that has garnered the support of many American agriculture producers, and will facilitate increased market access and positive economic impact for our rural communities.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Madam President, yesterday the Senate voted on the nomination of William G. Myers III who has been nominated for a position on the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. The Ninth Circuit includes most western States as well as Alaska and Hawaii. These western States contain a vast portion of our natural resources and is home to many of our Native Americans, Alaskan Natives and Hawaiian natives. President Bush nominated Mr. Myers on May 15, 2003 while he served as Solicitor General for the Department of Interior. He was voted out of the Judiciary Committee on April 1, 2004, by a party line vote of 10-9. A large portion of Mr. Myers' 22-year legal career has been in Washington working as a lobbyist and as a governmental lawyer in Republican administrations. During his legal career, Mr. Myers has never served in a judiciary capacity; he has never participated in a trial, and has received a partial Not Qualified rating from the American Bar Association, its lowest rating. During his tenure as Solicitor General he has shown his contempt for environmental protections and has disregarded the necessary input of Native Americans into decisions that directly affect them. As Solicitor, he reversed an opinion made by his predecessor during the Clinton administration regarding the interpretation of a statute. This reversal led to the issuanc of a permit to the Glamis Company to open and operate the Glamis Imperial Mine on Quechan Indian Sacred land. The decision to overturn this opinion was done without government-to- government consultation with the Quechan Indian Tribe, which is required by the policies implemented by the executive branch. Despite requests made by the Quechan Indian Tribe to meet with the Interior Department, he never made any attempts to convene with the tribe while Solicitor, yet had several meetings with the Glamis Company regarding this gold mine. Mr. Myers placed his mining industry ties before all others. It is his judgment demonstrated here that lead the nonpartisan National Congress of American Indians to oppose this judicial nomination for the first time in this organization's 60-year existence. The nomination of Mr. Myers is opposed by more than 175 environmental, Native American, labor, civil rights, disability rights, women's rights and other organizations. The New York Times, the Los Angeles Times, and the San Francisco Chronicle have editorialized in opposition to his confirmation. Now, I point out that I have voted and the Senate has confirmed many conservative judges. Do I like their politics? Probably not. Will I be happy with their rulings all of the time? No. Do I think they can resist partisan activism while serving on the bench? Yes. Regardless of a judge's political leanings, I will support a nominee who understands and is respectful of the rule of law. It is apparent that Mr. Myers will put industry ahead of our environment, the sacred land rights of Native Americans, and most importantly what is in the best interest of the general public.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I honor and publicly recognize the 125th anniversary of the founding of the city of Menno, SD. The city of Menno has a proud past and a promising future. The area that was to become the city of Menno was settled in 1874 by a group of Black Sea Germans from Russia. The great majority of settlers made their living off the land. According to a U.S. Government survey, Menno and the land surrounding it is made up of some of the richest most fertile soil in the country. Menno owes its beginnings to the railroad industry, which brought much-needed commerce. The city of Menno bears the name intended for the town of Freeman, 10 miles away. When railroad officials were nailing the signs bearing the names of new towns to the depots, the name boards of the neighboring towns of Menno and Freeman were accidentally interchanged. With the result that Menno derives its name from the large settlement of Mennonites at Freeman, called Mennonites because the sect was founded by Menno Simons, while the town of Freeman is named for an early settler of Menno. The city of Menno was officially settled in 1879. Currently, more than 800 people live in Menno. The city has already started celebrations for its 125th anniversary and will continue them throughout the year. It is with great honor that I advise my colleagues of the achievements made by this great community.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I wish today to honor and publicly recognize the 125th anniversary of the founding of the city of Elkton, SD. The city of Elkton has a proud past and a promising future. The first settler in the area had been E.D. Johnson, who in the spring of 1877 had obtained a tree claimed half a mile north of the future site of the town. Other families started to move into the area in 1878 just in time for the railroad to arrive in 1879. Railroad officials wanted to place a station between the communities of Verdi and Aurora. Local railroad officials named it Ivanhoe, originally. Not until July 21, 1882 was its name changed officially from Ivanhoe to Elkton. The name came from Elkton, MD, which was the early home of one of the railroad officials. The town was plotted in the spring of 1880 and soon sprouted a variety of different businesses. In 1896, an Elkton man named Henry Heintz obtained a patent on what some locals believe could have been the first airship in the United States. Working with Henry Wulf of Arizona, Heintz built a machine which lifted off the ground in its trial flight, to the amazement and delight of spectators. The craft wouldn't move ahead, however, and returned almost immediately to earth. There are apparently no records of rebuildings and further attempts. Currently, more than 600 people live in Elkton. The city has already started celebrations for its 125th anniversary and will continue them throughout the year. These include an all-high school alumni reunion and a street dance. It is with great honor that I advise my colleagues of the achievements made by this great community.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, today I wish to publicly recognize and acknowledge the 125th anniversary of the founding of the city of Freeman, SD. Freeman was settled throughout the 1870s by German and Russian immigrants. By 1879, like many cities throughout South Dakota, a railroad stop had been established in Freeman and was a center for immigrants arriving at that period of time. In 1893, the town was officially incorporated. By 1893, Freeman had established numerous businesses, schools, and many residences. The town of Freeman combines a rich heritage with strong hopes for the future. The Freeman Area Veterans Memorial and the Heritage Hall Museum are two examples of the town's appreciation for its rich history. Two strong schools give the town an appeal to families raising children and comprehensive medical services attract people to retire in Freeman. A strong, diverse economy including retail businesses, professional services, and manufacturing components keeps Freeman strong. Freeman is the type of town that forms the backbone of rural life in South Dakota. Hometown values, respect for neighbors, and a commitment to its past all point to a prosperous future for Freeman. It is with great honor that I advise my colleagues of the achievements made by this great community.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, today I would like to honor and publicly recognize the 125th anniversary of the founding of the city of Brookings, SD. The city and the county were both named for Wilmot W. Brookings, one of the first settlers in the Dakota Territory. Arriving in June of 1857, Brookings was a highly respected explorer with great amounts of courage, energy, ability, and perseverance. He settled in Sioux Falls on August 27, 1857. Beginning the trip in January of 1858, he was soon set upon by a heavy blizzard, the result of which required the amputation of both feet. Not to be deterred, Brookings continued settle the area, eventually becoming a leader in a number of government entities. The town and county were named for him in his honor and out of respect for all he did in the settlement of Dakota Territory. Before Brookings' arrival, the area was populated by American Indians. Large mounds that were used as burial grounds have been found in the area, as well as stone hammers and other stone tools. Fur traders entered the area as early as 1750. Originally, settlers founded the town of Medary in 1857 in what would become Brookings County. Oakwood and Fountain, two other small settlements, were also founded at this time and all were hopeful that railroad tracks would be laid through the city. On October 18, 1879, the railroad passed through Main Street in Brookings, which greatly helped the town to grow and prosper. Many of the residents and businessmen in Medary and Fountain would eventually move to Brookings. Currently, over 18,000 people live in Brookings. The town boasts numerous businesses, as well as South Dakota State University. The city has already started celebrations for its 125th anniversary and will continue them throughout the year. These include a ``Crazy Days'' celebration, a large art exhibit, and a tour of historic homes throughout the city. It is with great honor that I advise my colleagues of the achievements made by this great community.

Mr. JOHNSON

Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, today I honor and acknowledge the town of Gregory, SD, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. Gregory was founded on August 8, 1904, and a year later had grown to over 500 residents, supported by banks, a meat market, lumber companies, hotels, and blacksmiths. The town was named for John Shaw Gregory, a councilman and representative in the Dakota Territory Legislature from 1862 until 1868. Gregory also served in the United States Navy for 12 years and was appointed ``Special Agent to the Poncas'' in 1859 and worked on the Ponca Indian Reservation. Soon after the town's founding in 1908, the North Western Line Railroad brought 15 trains daily to Gregory. Today Gregory boasts more than 50 businesses and over 1,200 residents. The annual pheasant season in October attracts sportsmen from across the Nation. To celebrate its 100th anniversary, the residents of Gregory will hold the Oscar Micheaux Film Festival, a celebration featuring the Lewis and Clark Journey and Discovery, and a Crazy Day Fire Department Film Festival and Appreciation Day. Celebrations have already begun and will continue throughout the year. It is with great honor that I advise my colleagues of the achievements made by this great community.