Bob Smith

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I am pleased to introduce the Upper Connecticut River Partnership Act of 2001. This legislation is a truly locally-led initiative. I believe it will result in great environmental benefits for the Connecticut River. The Connecticut River forms the border to New Hampshire and Vermont and provides for a great deal of recreational and tourism opportunities for residents of both States. This legislation takes a major step forward in making sure this River continues to thrive as a treasured resource. To understand just how significant this legislation is, I would like to share with my colleagues some history about the Connecticut River program. In 1987-88, New Hampshire and Vermont each created a commission to address environmental issues facing the Connecticut river valley. The commissions were established to coordinate water quality and various other environmental efforts along the Connecticut river valley. The two commissions came together in 1990 to form the Connecticut River Joint Commission. The Joint Commission has no regulatory authority, but carries out cooperative education and advisory activities. To further the local influence of the Commission, the Connecticut River Joint Commission established five advisory bi-state local river subcommittees comprised of representatives nominated by the governing body of their municipalities. These advisory groups developed a Connecticut River Corridor Management Plan. A major portion of the plan focuses on channeling federal funds to local communities to implement water quality programs, nonpoint source pollution controls and other environmental projects. Over the last ten years, the Connecticut River Joint Commission has fostered widespread participation and laid a strong foundation of community and citizen involvement. As a Senator from New Hampshire and the ranking Republican of the Environment and Public Works Committee, as well as someone who enjoys the beauty of the Connecticut River, I am proud to be the principal author and cosponsor of this locally led, voluntary effort that accomplishes real environmental progress. Too often we depend on bureaucratic federal regulatory programs to accomplish environmental success. This bill takes a different approach and one that I bet will achieve greater results on the ground. I hope that other communities and neighboring states will look at this model as an example of how to develop and implement true voluntary, on the ground, locally-led environmental programs. I want to thank my colleague from New Hampshire, Senator Gregg, and the two distinguished Senators of Vermont, Senators Leahy and Jeffords, for joining me as original cosponsors to this legislation. I look forward to working with them as we move this important legislation through the Senate.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I am pleased to send to the desk a bill that will make improvements in our current national security space management and organization. I am delighted to stand here today and state that the Department of Defense is moving forward to implement the recommendations of the Commission to Assess United States National Security Space Management and Organization, more commonly known as the Space Commission. I pushed my colleagues to charter this group of 13 senior military-space experts in the Fiscal Year 1999 Defense Authorization Act to assess the management of military space matters today and make recommendations to strengthen the national security space organization in the future. It is a wonderful coincidence that the chairman of the bipartisan Space Commission, the Honorable Donald Rumsfeld, was appointed by President Bush and confirmed by the Senate for the position of Secretary of Defense. As a result, Secretary Rumsfeld brings to his position a keen appreciation of the importance of space to the future national security of the United States. The Space Commission, the efforts of the Secretary of Defense, and this proposed legislation will set this nation on a bold new course. More than fifty years ago, this nation took a similar bold step in establishing military air power with the creation of the U.S. Air Force. This decision, under the National Security Act of 1947, was signed into law by President Truman and dramatically restructured our institutional approach to military air power. This restructuring resulted from years of air-power management problems under the Army, insufficient reforms under the Army Air Corps established in 1926, and assessments of numerous committees like the recent Space Commission. The military management and organizational reforms of fifty years ago were a great success, and today, quite a bit has changed for the better. As a result of the formation of a separate service focused on air power, we soon developed, and have had, right up to today, the best equipped and best trained Air Force in the world. The U.S. Air Force is capable of surpassing any enemy. However, we have come to see that there are structural limitations inherent in the Air Force today with respect to space power just as there were in the Army fifty years ago with respect to air power. The Army has been structured to meet ground requirements. Its training, doctrine, leaders, and culture are all focused on fighting ground battles. For systemic reasons, the Army was not able to develop a strong, viable military air power. Therefore, the Air Force was created by the 1947 National Security Act which called for the creation of a separate organization designed to deal specifically with air power. There are many parallels between the early struggle for air power that led to the creation of the Air Force and the issues we face today in seeking space power. The similarities between these two issues are truly astounding. Today, space is used only in support of air, land, and sea warfare in much the same manner that air power was at first seen as only a way to support ground forces. Space today is used to provide ``information superiority'' in support of other missions, but there is the potential for so much more. We, as a Nation, need to stop talking and dreaming of a dominant space presence and start doing. We must recognize the importance of space as a permanent frontier for the military, so that America may proceed into space with the same confidence, assurance, and authority that marked our entrance into the skies. Currently, space programs are raided for funds ten times more often than other Air Force programs because space programs are either not aggressively defended and/or not aggressively executed consistent with the intent of Congress. Other space opportunities like the military space plane, an air and space vehicle promising future power projection from the U.S. to anywhere in the world in 45 minutes or less, are extremely important to the cost-effective transformation of the military especially during this period of shrinking American military presence around the globe. Yet the space plane and most of the space programs continue to be underfunded. We need a better leader in space. The reason for this is simple: the top priority of the Air Force is and will remain air power, not space power. The top jobs do and will continue to elude space officers in an Air Force run by pilots unless we can create an organization whose job it would be to defend space programs, to make sure that funding for space opportunities goes where it is supposed to go, and does not get rerouted back to other non-space programs. Space is too important a frontier and too vital a resource to be allowed to remain untapped and unexplored, undefended and unmanned. America's future security and prosperity depends on our constant vigilance. We cannot afford to ignore space because our enemies will not. While we are ahead of any potential rival in exploiting space, we are not unchallenged. Our future superiority is by no means assured. To ensure superiority, we must combine expansive thinking with a sustained and substantial commitment of resources and vest them in a dedicated, politically powerful, independent advocate for space. The way it is organized today, the Air Force is not building the material, cultural, or organizational foundations of a service dedicated to space power. Where are the space science and technology investments? Where is the funding for key space-power programs? Where are the personnel investments? What concrete steps are being taken to build a dedicated cadre of young space-warfare officers? Before closing, let me assure my colleagues of what this legislation is and what it is not. This legislation is about streamlined management, efficient operations, and the elimination of redundancy. It is about establishing an advocate for space who can evaluate space opportunities and bring those proposals forward to the President and Congress for disposition. It is about maximizing the national-security capability for every tax dollar spent. I have seen press stories that twisted Secretary Rumsfeld's support of the Space Commission recommendations as an intent to weaponize space. Let me assure my colleagues that this bill does not weaponize space. This is about management and organization. It is about good government. Enacting this legislation merely ensures that the concrete management reforms recommended by the Space Commission are implemented quickly. The Secretary of Defense, the Services, and the Intelligence Community all support the unanimous bipartisan recommendations from the Space Commission. I urge my Colleagues to support this bill which implements those recommendations. Space is critical to the future of this nation. It is important for Congress to provide leadership so that these recommendations are implemented quickly and not watered-down. While the Secretary does have broad management authority to run the Department of Defense, space is too important to be managed in-the- margin or through loopholes in statute. Just as Congress established the Army Air Corps in 1926 and the Air Force in 1947, it is right that Congress legislate these space management reforms. Space dominance is too important to the success of future warfare to allow any bureaucracy, military department, or parochial concern to stand in the way. To protect America's interests we need to move forward consistent with the spirit of the Space Commission. This legislation is a good first step.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I am pleased to introduce the Upper Connecticut River Partnership Act of 2001. This legislation is a truly locally-led initiative. I believe it will result in great environmental benefits for the Connecticut River. The Connecticut River forms the border to New Hampshire and Vermont and provides for a great deal of recreational and tourism opportunities for residents of both States. This legislation takes a major step forward in making sure this River continues to thrive as a treasured resource. To understand just how significant this legislation is, I would like to share with my colleagues some history about the Connecticut River program. In 1987-88, New Hampshire and Vermont each created a commission to address environmental issues facing the Connecticut river valley. The commissions were established to coordinate water quality and various other environmental efforts along the Connecticut river valley. The two commissions came together in 1990 to form the Connecticut River Joint Commission. The Joint Commission has no regulatory authority, but carries out cooperative education and advisory activities. To further the local influence of the Commission, the Connecticut River Joint Commission established five advisory bi-state local river subcommittees comprised of representatives nominated by the governing body of their municipalities. These advisory groups developed a Connecticut River Corridor Management Plan. A major portion of the plan focuses on channeling federal funds to local communities to implement water quality programs, nonpoint source pollution controls and other environmental projects. Over the last ten years, the Connecticut River Joint Commission has fostered widespread participation and laid a strong foundation of community and citizen involvement. As a Senator from New Hampshire and the ranking Republican of the Environment and Public Works Committee, as well as someone who enjoys the beauty of the Connecticut River, I am proud to be the principal author and cosponsor of this locally led, voluntary effort that accomplishes real environmental progress. Too often we depend on bureaucratic federal regulatory programs to accomplish environmental success. This bill takes a different approach and one that I bet will achieve greater results on the ground. I hope that other communities and neighboring states will look at this model as an example of how to develop and implement true voluntary, on the ground, locally-led environmental programs. I want to thank my colleague from New Hampshire, Senator Gregg, and the two distinguished Senators of Vermont, Senators Leahy and Jeffords, for joining me as original cosponsors to this legislation. I look forward to working with them as we move this important legislation through the Senate.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. I yield the floor. Amendment No. 1229 to Amendment No. 1214

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I will take 2 or 3 minutes to speak in anticipation of an amendment that will be offered by Senator Kyl. I reluctantly have to oppose the Senator's amendment, although I understand the situation he faces. His amendment would alter the formula for the State revolving fund for the Clean Water Act. Senator Kyl's amendment would alter a Clean Water Act formula for the SRF that has been in place since 1987. While I recognize the Senator's concerns about the lack of funds for his State and the money that goes to Arizona and other States in the face of these great economic needs, I have to oppose the amendment as the ranking Republican on the Environment and Public Works Committee which has jurisdiction over the Clean Water Act. Very simply, this is not the place to change the formula for the SRF--on an appropriations bill. I urge my colleague and other colleagues, if Senator Kyl does offer the amendment, to think seriously. They can take a look at a chart, which I will enter into the Record, which shows how all of these formulas will affect everybody's States. If it is simply a matter of will they get more, will they get less, they can vote that way if they wish, but that is really not the issue. I hope my colleagues will understand that this is not the place to try to get into the authorizing business on something as complex as the formula for the SRF, State revolving fund, for the Clean Water Act. The Environment and Public Works Committee has committed to examine the waste and drinking water concerns of our country and amend the Clean Water Act and the Safe Drinking Water Act. Senator Jeffords has pledged to move along those lines. I know when I was the chairman and Senator Reid was the ranking member, we did that, and I have been assured by Senator Jeffords that water infrastructure will continue to be a priority for the committee. I commit to Senator Kyl right now to examine the issue of the formula he is looking at, and I urge him to allow us to put this together in a way that is a proper legislative package with the appropriate vehicle. If the Senator does offer the amendment, I urge my colleagues to oppose it and work with me and others on the committee to solve the water infrastructure problems over the years. Finally, I recognize Arizona and other States, mostly in the West, have been shortchanged on this formula, but this is a complex issue. It should not be adjusted simply by raising somebody's numbers and lowering somebody else's, which is what is going to happen here. It is not the way to do it. I hope we can do it otherwise, and I urge my colleagues to consider that if there is a vote on the Kyl amendment. I ask unanimous consent that the chart to which I referred be printed in the Record.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. I would like to echo the words of my colleague from Vermont. As Senators Bond and Mikulski know, I have supported funding for NESCAUM before and would hope that we can continue that at current levels in the fiscal year 2002 bill. The organization is very important to developing workable and cost- effective air pollution control strategies in the Northeast. I encourage the Chair to continue that past support.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to an esteemed colleague and dear friend, Robert W. Varney, Commissioner of the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, NHDES, on being appointed Regional Administrator for the Environmental Protection Agency, EPA--New England. Mr. Varney has served the Granite State as Commissioner of NHDES since July of 1989, having been appointed by three Governors, Judd Gregg, Steve Merrill and Jeanne Shaheen, with the unanimous approval of the Executive Council. Mr. Varney was responsible for the great task of overseeing all of New Hampshire's air, water and waste programs issues. He is recognized nationally as an environmental leader, and has presided over countless prestigious environmental committees and organizations, including President of the Environmental Council of the States, ECOS, the National Organization of State Environmental Commissioners and has served on the National Environmental Justice Advisory Council. While his national recognition is commendable, Mr. Varney's prowess in the New England region has been demonstrated by his high ranking positions on numerous regional organizations such as the Gulf of Maine Council on the Marine Environment, the Ozone Transport Commission, the New England Governors Conference Environment Committee, and the New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission, just to name a few. In June 2000, his efforts to partner with the private sector were recognized when he was presented with the Paul Keough Environmental Award for Government Service by the Environmental Business Council of New England. As former Chairman and current ranking member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, and one time Chairman of the Superfund Sub-committee, I have had the pleasure of working quite closely with Mr. Varney on a wide range of issues. On numerous occasions I have depended on his far-reaching environmental expertise to testify before Congress on key issues such as the dangers of the fuel additive MTBE, the current status of superfund cleanup activities and on successful state environmental programs. With the help of Mr. Varney's leadership, New Hampshire has become, and continues to be, a front-runner in exploring innovative, low-cost technologies while reaping the benefits of developing successful Federal and State relationships. I commend Mr. Varney for his exemplary service to New Hampshire, and look forward to watching the success that will follow him in this next endeavor. New Hampshire, New England and the Nation are truly fortunate to have such a dedicated environmental leader take on the vitally important role of EPA Regional Administrator, and I am certain he will execute this duty with comparable distinction. It is with pleasure that I extend my deepest congratulations and hope for future success.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to Lt. Col. John D. Woodward USAF-Ret, of Manchester, NH, who passed away on July 8, 2001. John was born in Pembroke, NH, and served with honor and distinction in the United States military. He began his military career with the United States Army in Panama and later served with the Coast Artillery, Infantry and Field Artillery. In 1942, John transferred to the Army Air Corps where he was commissioned a second lieutenant serving with the Army Air Force units throughout the South Pacific. John was one of the founding members of Detachment B, 201st Air Service Group which was accorded Federal recognition at Grenier Field in Manchester, NH, as the original New Hampshire Air National Guard. He also served in the Korean Conflict with United States Air Force units in Greenland and Newfoundland. Promoted to the rank of Lt. Col. in 1957, John became Deputy Commander for Materiel for the 157th Military Airlift Group, MAC, in 1966, and served in that capacity when the unit became the 157th Tactical Airlift Group. He was later appointed commander of the 157th Combat Support Squadron in 1975 when the Group became a unit of the Strategic Air Command. John earned many medals and awards for his dedicated military service including: the Bronze Star, the American Defense Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, the American Theater Medal, the Asiatic Pacific Theater Medal with two battle stars, the Armed Forces Reserve Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the World War II Victory Medal and the New Hampshire Air National Guard Medal. As a Vietnam veteran and senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, I commend John for his contributions to the people of New Hampshire and the country. John was an active supporter of his local community who contributed as a member of organizations including: Sons of the American Revolution, the American Legion, Sons of the Union Veterans and as a Master Mason with Washington Lodge #61 of New Hampshire. He was a lifelong die-hard supporter of the Boston Red Sox and an enthusiastic golfer. John is survived by his wife of 59 years, Betty; his daughters: Linda Woodward and Debra Woodward and his son, John D. Woodward II. He is also survived by a granddaughter, Megan Woods and two sisters: Esther Perron and Lillian Lesmerises. John served his country and State with pride and dignity. I applaud him for his exemplary contributions to the United States military and New Hampshire. He will be sadly missed by all those whose lives he touched. It is truly an honor and a privilege to have represented him in the U.S. Senate.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to Warren E. Pearson of Dixville Notch, NH, who passed away on June 28, 2001. He had fought a courageous battle with cancer and inspired many with his spirit and determination. Warren was born in Lewiston, ME, and served with honor and distinction in the United States Army's 25th Infantry Division in Vietnam. While in the Army, he served as a military ski instructor and ski area manager in Fort Richardson, Alaska. Warren returned to New Hampshire after his military service and assumed the position of head ski school instructor at The BALSAMS Grand Resort & Hotel in Dixville Notch. He was promoted through the ranks and became General Manager of the resort in 1971. In 1977 he became a managing partner and corporate vice president of The BALSAMS Corporation. He was an active supporter of his community and served positions including: Director at The First Colebrook Bank, Chairman at First Colebrook Bankcorp, Board member of the Upper Connecticut Valley Hospital and member of the New Hampshire Better Business Bureau. He also served on the Board of Trustees at the Hanover Inn at Dartmouth College. Warren was awarded professional recognition for his contributions in the hospitality industry including: Innkeeper of the Year Award from the New Hampshire Hospitality Association in 1980-81; New Hampshire Commission for the Arts, Business Award for Support of the Arts in 1985 and New England Innkeepers Association Outstanding Service Award. Warren is survived by his wife of 34 years, Eleanor; his son, Michael and wife, Sharon; his son, Andrew and wife, Lorraine and a daughter, Tamme and three grandchildren: Duncan Pearson, Lindsay Pearson and Lilly Anne Pearson Robarts. He is also survived by his mother, Mildred Bollavance and two sisters: Deborah Cooke and Marcia Whitman. Warren served his country and State with pride and dignity. As a Vietnam veteran, I commend him for his service in the United States Army and for his exemplary personal and business contributions to The BALSAMS Grand Resort and New Hampshire. He will be sadly missed by all those whose lives he touched. It is truly an honor and a privilege to have represented him in the U.S. Senate.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I am pleased to announce that Rebecca Kane, from Lee, New Hampshire, was recently awarded the Young Naturalists Award for her essay entitled ``Bog Trotting.'' This prestigious honor is only awarded to 12 student across the country and I would like to congratulate her on this outstanding achievement. After reading Rebecca's essay, I have learned a great deal about my New Hampshire bogs. Her description of the pitcher plants was fascinating, but even more interesting was the introduction of different theories related to bog formation. The pictures provided along with the detailed descriptions of the landscape around her were breathtaking and showed a great deal of literary skill beyond 12 years of age. Rebecca's appreciation of the bogs and ability to translate that insight into a stylistic prose is remarkable and exhibits a veritable talent. As the senior Republican of the Environment and Public Works Committee, I am always concerned about our nation's natural resources and none more so than New Hampshire's beautiful landscape. After reading this essay, the bogs I live near have come to life. I look forward to hearing what new information she may discover about these natural wonders in the years to come. Following Rebecca's trip to New York and multiple meetings with research scientists from the American Museum of Natural History, I hope she will return home and take advantage of these native surroundings by continuing to learn and build her skills as a writer and researcher. Rebecca, congratulations again on this distinguished award. It is an honor to represent you in the U.S. Senate.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to the Knights of Columbus Council #2048 of Rochester, NH, on the creation of the successful Future Unlimited Banquet Program. Future Unlimited is an annual event which recognizes the Valedictorians and Salutatorians from eight high schools in the Seacoast region of New Hampshire. The eight high schools represented in the program include: St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Berwick, ME, Dover High School, Somersworth High School, Farmington High School, Nute High School, Alton High School, Kingswood Regional High School and Spaulding High School. I commend the Knights of Columbus Rochester Council for their recognition of the scholastic achievements of the high school seniors in the Seacoast region. As a former schoolteacher, I applaud the efforts of the Knights of Columbus for rewarding students who have established goals and high standards of excellence in their academic, extracurricular and civic endeavors. The Knights of Columbus Rochester Council #2048 have served the citizens of Rochester and our state with pride and honor. The young men and women in the Seacoast region are blessed to have the encouragement and support of an organization which recognizes the qualities of hard work, perseverance and dedication. It is truly an honor and a privilege to represent them in the U.S. Senate.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise in support of the confirmation of John D. Graham to be Administrator of the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs. Dr. Graham has been a Professor of Policy & Decision Sciences at the Harvard School of Public Health since 1991, and is the Director of the Harvard Center for Risk Analysis. Prior to that, he was an assistant professor and then associate professor at Harvard. Graham holds a B.A. in Economics and Politics from Wake Forest University, an M.A. in Public Affairs from Duke University, and a Ph.D. in Urban and Public Affairs from Carnegie-Mellon University where he was an assistant professor for the 1984-1985 academic year. Given OIRA responsibility's for ensuring that government regulations are drafted in a manner that reduces risk without unnecessary costs, Dr. Graham's qualifications to head the agency are unquestionable. Since his nomination, he has come under fire for his work at the Harvard Center for Risk Analysis. Some who have opposed Dr. Graham have charged that he and the Center have a pro-business bias. Typically, those same people who oppose Dr. Graham, also oppose the use of comparative risk as one of many tools to be used in determining environmental policy. That is unfortunate, because the use of science and cost/benefit analysis is vital if we are to adequately focus resources on our most challenging environmental concerns. I believe risk analysis and comparative risks give us much needed information to better understand the potential consequences and benefits of a range of choices. We all recognize that there aren't enough resources available to address every environmental threat. The Federal Government, States, local communities, the private sector, and even environmental organizations all have to target their limited resources on the environmental problems that present the greatest threat to human health and the environment. Our focus, therefore, is, and should be, on getting the biggest bang for the limited bucks. Comparative risk is the tool that enables us to prioritize the risks to human health and the environment and target our limited resources on the greatest risks. It provides the structure for decision-makers to: One, identify environmental hazards; two, determine whether there are risks posed to humans or the environment; and three, characterize and rank those risks. Risk managers can then use that analysis to achieve greater environmental benefits. Last year, as the Chairman of the Environment & Public Works Committee, I held a hearing on the role of comparative risk in setting our policy priorities. During that hearing, we heard how many states and local governments are already using comparative risk assessments in a public and open process that allows cooperation, instead of confrontation, and encourages dialogue, instead of mandates. States are setting priorities, developing partnerships, and achieving real results by using comparative risk as a management tool. They are using good science to maximize environmental benefits with limited resources. I believe we should encourage and promote these successful programs. It is important that this nation have someone like Dr. Graham to lead the OIRA. We must use reliable scientific analysis to guide us in our decision making process when it comes to environmental regulations. Dr. Graham's resume and record proves that he is the optimal person to head the office that will be making many of those decisions. Every person, Republican and Democrat, who has held the position of OIRA Administrator, except for two who are now federal judges and prohibited from doing so, have urged Senate action on his behalf. They state in a letter to the Committee Chairman and Ranking Member that, ``we are confident that [Dr. Graham] is not an `opponent' of all regulation but rather is deeply committed to seeing that regulation serves broad public purposes as effectively as possible.'' I am a strong proponent of protecting and preserving our environment--my record proves that fact. I am also a strong believer that we must use sound science, comparative risk analysis and cost/ benefit in making environmental decisions. Science, not politics, should be our guide. We must focus our efforts in a manner that assures the maximum amount of environmental protection given the resources available. Scientific analysis allows us to make good decisions and determine where to focus our resources to ensure that our health and a clean environment are never compromised. Mr. President, I urge my colleagues to support John Graham for Administrator of the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to Lance Cpl. Sean Hughes of Milton, NH, who gave his life for our country on July 10, 2001, when a Marine Corps helicopter participating in a training exercise went down in Sneads Ferry, NC. Sean was a graduate of Nute High School in Milton, NH. He joined the Marine Corps on July 14, 1999, following the military tradition of his father and grandfather who both served as members of the United States Air Force. An extremely talented and highly intelligent Crew Chief with Marine Helicopter Squadron 365, Sean will always be remembered as the little boy who enjoyed watching planes take off and land at the flight line with his father. An artist, athlete, and committed Marine, friends each remember him as an exceptional person with a gentle heart. Those who knew him best described him as ``irreplaceable,'' ``a dear friend,'' and one that has ``enriched their lives simply by having known him.'' His constant smile will be missed, as will his unwavering devotion to this country. As a fellow veteran, I commend Sean for his service in the U.S. Marine Corps. Hundreds of Marines, friends, and family lost a devoted scholar, friend, brother, and son. The people of New Hampshire and the country lost an honorable soldier with a deeply held sense of patriotism. The determination and devotion he possessed as a Marine, and an individual, will not soon be forgotten. I send my sincere sympathy and prayers to Sean's family and wish them Godspeed during this difficult time in their lives. It is truly an honor to have represented Lance Cpl. Hughes in the U.S. Senate.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to Les and Marilyn Gordon, owners of The Candlelite Inn in Bradford, NH, on being named as Inn of the Year by the Complete Guide to Bed & Breakfast Inns and Guesthouses in the United States, Canada and Worldwide. Built in 1897, The Candlelite Inn has provided a relaxing atmosphere for visiting guests for over 100 years. The Gordons purchased the Inn in 1993, and have successfully continued the tradition of accommodating the needs of discriminating travelers touring the Lake Sunapee Region. Throughout the year The Candlelite Inn hosts special weeks for their guests to enjoy including: Currier & Ives Maple Sugar Weekend in March, Old Glory Heritage Tours in July, August and September, Foliage Midweek Getaways in September and October, and Murder Mystery Parties throughout the year. I commend Les and Marilyn for the economic contributions they have made to the hospitality and tourism industries in our state. The citizens of Bradford, and New Hampshire, have benefitted from their dedication to quality and service at The Candlelite Inn. It is truly an honor and a privilege to represent them in the U.S. Senate.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Madam President, I would like to take this opportunity to commend an agreement that was reached with regards to the Landrieu-Smith amendment to the Interior appropriations bill. Simply put, the purpose of the amendment was to fix what is essentially a technical concern with the bill and improve the way that States received their portions of the $100 million. This would be done by utilizing an already established wildlife conservation fund and its formula parameters instead of creating a new program with a new formula. I do want to make it clear that I am extremely supportive of the funding that is provided in this Interior appropriations bill for the State Wildlife Grant Fund. I believe that these dollars will be of great benefit to State efforts to protect wildlife populations. I am especially pleased that the bill allows the States to determine the manner in which to utilize these resources. The Landrieu-Smith amendment would seek to use the Wildlife Conservation and Restoration Program, under the popular and successful Pittman-Robertson Program, that was established in the fiscal year 2001 Commerce-Justice-State appropriation law. The law also provided $50 million under formula apportionment to the States for high priority wildlife conservation, education and recreation projects. That language was included at my request because of my concern for equitable distribution of valuable conservation funds. In fact, I have recently introduced a bill--the American Wildlife Enhancement Act of 2001, S.990--that would extend the authorization of that program through 2006. The Landrieu-Smith amendment would allocate the $100 million set- aside for the State Wildlife Grants Fund to the already established Wildlife Conservation and Restoration Program. Adoption of our amendment would improve, and make more equitable, the way that these dollars are allocated to the States. Our amendment would allow for the allocation of funds under the formula established last year in the Wildlife Conservation and Restoration Program. Funding in that program is based two-thirds on the population of the State and one-third on the land area. It also guarantees that a single State would receive no less than one percent and no more than five percent of the available funds. This formula was supported by all 50 State fish and wildlife agencies as being the most equitable distribution to address conservation needs throughout the country. The Interior appropriations bill that was reported by the Appropriations Committee would have changed that formula. This would result in a considerable gain of funds for only 2 States, but a loss for 37 other States. To change the already established formula would compromise the ability of the majority of our states to effectively address their wildlife conservation needs. I am seeking to change back to what was established last year because I believe that is what is most fair to all States and already has their strong support. Regardless of whether or not our amendment was agreed to, New Hampshire's funding will not be impacted--to me it is an issue of fairness. It also makes much more sense to appropriate the $100 million to an already existing account with set allocation parameters that has demonstrated success than to create a new bureaucratic process. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and State fish and wildlife are agencies already familiar with the Wildlife Conservation and Restoration Program and could administer the program efficiently. Why impose a new set of criteria for allocation of the fiscal year 02 funds when the previously established criteria works so well? Through excellent cooperation between the Fish and Wildlife Service and the State fish and wildlife agencies, all 50 States have already qualified to receive their apportionment of the $50 million made available by last year's Commerce-Justice-State appropriations law and are in the process of submitting their project agreements. Adopting this amendment would have allowed this process to continue smoothly into the next fiscal year. I am pleased to support what I believe is a fair compromise to this amendment. The Interior appropriations bill that passed the Senate this evening reflects the changes in the formula that our amendment intended to make, without sending the funds through the Wildlife Conservation and Restoration Program. Even though the previously established account is not being used to distribute the funds, I am pleased that the funds will be allocated using a formula that all 50 State fish and wildlife agencies have agreed to as fair and equitable.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to the Knights of Columbus Council No. 2048 of Rochester, NH, on the creation of the successful Future Unlimited Banquet Program. Future Unlimited is an annual event which recognizes the Valedictorians and Salutatorians from eight high schools in the Seacoast region of New Hampshire. The eight high schools represented in the program include: St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Berwick, ME, Dover High School, Somersworth High School, Farmington High School, Nute High School, Alton High School, Kingswood Regional High School and Spaulding High School. I commend the Knights of Columbus Rochester Council for their recognition of the scholastic achievements of the high school seniors in the Seacoast region. As a former schoolteacher, I applaud the efforts of the Knights of Columbus for rewarding students who have established goals and high standards of excellence in their academic, extracurricular and civic endeavors. The Knights of Columbus Rochester Council No. 2048 have served the citizens of Rochester and our state with pride and honor. The young men and women in the Seacoast region are blessed to have the encouragement and support of an organization which recognizes the qualities of hard work, perseverance and dedication. It is truly an honor and a privilege to represent them in the U.S. Senate.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, this month marks the 10th anniversary of Court TV, which has played a crucial role in educating the public about our nation's criminal justice system. When Court TV went on the air in July of 1991, about nine out of ten Americans had never seen a trial. Now ten years later, Court TV has aired more than 732 trials nationally and provides more than 60 million households with the opportunity to watch trials--as well as other criminal justice-related programming--on a daily basis. During those years, Court TV has provided the Nation with an extraordinary civics lesson, enabling Americans to see their own criminal justice system first-hand. Viewers have seen some of the nation's finest judges, prosecutors and defense attorneys at work and have watched the judicial process unfold--with the benefit of expert commentators and analysts. As part of that civics lesson, Court TV has enabled viewers to watch live trial coverage--for the first time ever-- of cases involving such issues as, among other things: appellate arguments, breach of contract, jury selection, libel, medical malpractice, negligence, parole hearings, product liability, and even war crimes. Mr. President, Court TV has also made a special commitment to helping reduce youth violence. Its public affairs initiative, ``Choices and Consequences,'' has received the cable television industry's highest public service award, the Golden Beacon Award, for its efforts to keep our Nation's children out of our Nation's courts. A middle school curriculum, based on trial coverage of cases involving youth offenders, has been provided to more than 10,000 schools. A new high school curriculum, which addresses bullying among other issues, is now available online and through Court TV's ``Cable in the Classroom'' feed. Cable television operators in more than 50 cities in 24 states, plus the District of Columbia, have also partnered with Court TV in supporting ``Your Town'' town meetings, which have addressed a wide range of issues affecting adolescents and have been aired nationally. Earlier this year, Court TV chairman and CEO Henry Schleiff was honored to be joined by the Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, J. Dennis Hastert, as well as Minority Leader Richard Gephardt and our colleague, Senator Sam Brownback, among other Congressional leaders, in announcing a new ``media literacy'' campaign designed to help students distinguished between the positive and negative images that they see in all forms of media--and to help them understand the consequences of actions in the real world that may seem inconsequential onscreen. Court TV offers a unique mix of programming, including trial coverage by day and compelling stories of the criminal justice system in the evening. That mix has now made Court TV the fastest-growing basic cable network in the nation. Its growth is testament to the fact that high- quality programming can be both educational and entertaining. Today, I am pleased to recognize the important contribution that Court TV has made to public understanding of the judicial branch of Government and to criminal justice issues more broadly, and we applaud and encourage its continued efforts to work with our nation's schools to reduce youth violence and help students understand that choices made in a moment can have consequences for a lifetime.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to Angela Perez Baraquio of Honolulu, HI, on being named as Miss America 2001. Angela received a BA in education from the University of Hawaii, Manoa, and earned academic awards in college including: University Dean's List, Golden Key National Honor Society Member, 1998-1999, Donna Mercado Kim Academic Scholarship, Sibyl Nyborg Haide Student Teaching Grant and Evelyn Siu Foo Scholarship in Elementary Education. Angela is a K-3rd grade physical education teacher and 5th-8th grade coach and athletic director at Holy Family Catholic Academy. She is active in her local community as Choir Director at St. Augustine by the Sea Catholic Church in Waikiki. Her platform, Character in the Classroom: Teaching Values, Valuing Teachers, recognizes the important contributions that teachers make in our country and encourages the adoption of character development programs in schools throughout the United States. Angela aspires to complete a Master's degree in Education to accomplish her platform goals. Angela is visiting New Hampshire for the first time on July 11, 2001. She has been invited by the University of New Hampshire to be a keynote speaker at ``New Hampshire Celebrates Team Nutrition Day.'' The special event held during the University of New Hampshire's 2-week institute for school professionals recognizes the efforts of administrators and teachers who develop programs that provide nutritional and fitness instruction for the youth of the state. Now in its fifth year, the institute is the only one of its kind in the United States. The Miss America Organization is one of the Nation's leading achievement programs and the world's largest provider of scholarships for young women. The Miss American Organization provides young women with the opportunity to grow personally and professionally while instilling a spirit of community service through a variety of community-based programs. As a former schoolteacher, I commend Angela for her selfless dedication to the education of the young people of Hawaii and our country. I wish her well as she continues her education and continues to enrich the lives of the children in Hawaii.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to Les and Marilyn Gordon, owners of The Candlelite Inn in Bradford, NH, on being named as Inn of the Year by the Complete Guide to Bed & Breakfast Inns and Guesthouses in the United States, Canada and Worldwide. Built in 1897, The Candlelite Inn has provided a relaxing atmosphere for visiting guests for over 100 years. The Gordons purchased the Inn in 1993, and have successfully continued the tradition of accommodating the needs of discriminating travelers touring the Lake Sunapee Region. Throughout the year The Candlelite Inn hosts special weeks for their guests to enjoy including: Currier & Ives Maple Sugar Weekend in March, Old Glory Heritage Tours in July, August and September, Foliage Midweek Getaways in September and October, and Murder Mystery Parties throughout the year. I commend Les and Marilyn for the economic contributions they have made to the hospitality and tourism industries in our state. The citizens of Bradford, and New Hampshire, have benefitted from their dedication to quality and service at The Candlelite Inn. It is truly an honor and a privilege to represent them in the United States Senate.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise to introduce the Interstate Highway System Toll-Free Holiday Act. As we move into this Fourth of July holiday to celebrate our nation's 225th birthday, many will do so in true American fashion by loading up the kids and the dog in the family car and heading out for a fun holiday vacation. Unfortunately, many of those family trips will quickly turn into frustration. Just as you get on the road and begin that family outing, you are greeted by a screeching halt, faced with what seems to be an endless line that is not moving. Soon, the kids will grow restless and angry. You've just reached the end of the line of the first toll booth and the delay and frustration begins. Of course, when you do finally make it to the booth, they take your money. Every holiday, no exception. I want to help make those holiday driving vacations more enjoyable by removing that toll booth frustration. My legislation will provide the much deserved relief from all of that holiday grief. The Interstate Highway System Toll-Free Holiday Act provides that no tolls will be collected and no vehicles will be stopped at toll booths on the Interstate System during peak holiday travel periods. The exact duration of the toll waivers will be left to the States to determine, but will include, at a minimum, the entire 24 hour period of each legal Federal holiday. The bill will also authorize the Secretary of Transportation to reimburse the State, at the State's request, for lost toll revenues out of the Highway Trust Fund, which is funded by the tax that we all pay when we purchase gas for our cars. I want to keep the State highway funds whole, and, at the same time, provide relief to all those who simply want a hassle-free holiday trip. There are currently some 2,200 miles of toll facilities on the 42,800 mile Interstate System. On peak holiday travel days, traffic increases up to 50 percent over a typical weekday. In New Hampshire last year, the I-95 Hampton toll booth had a 10 percent average increase in traffic over the four-day Fourth of July weekend compared to the previous weekend. That is equivalent to an additional 8,000 vehicles passing through this one toll booth every day. That increase in volume at the toll sites is not only an inconvenience in time and money, but also adds to safety concerns and, because vehicle emissions are higher when idling, air quality suffers. I am pleased that this bill will alleviate the headaches and problems associated with increased toll booth traffic on holidays. This is just one of what will be a series of bills that I will be introducing, as the Ranking Member of the Environment and Public Works Committee, to address transportation needs in New Hampshire and across the Nation, as we prepare for the reauthorization of the next major comprehensive highway bill in 2003. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise to introduce the Interstate Highway System Toll-Free Holiday Act. As we move into this Fourth of July holiday to celebrate our nation's 225th birthday, many will do so in true American fashion by loading up the kids and the dog in the family car and heading out for a fun holiday vacation. Unfortunately, many of those family trips will quickly turn into frustration. Just as you get on the road and begin that family outing, you are greeted by a screeching halt, faced with what seems to be an endless line that is not moving. Soon, the kids will grow restless and angry. You've just reached the end of the line of the first toll booth and the delay and frustration begins. Of course, when you do finally make it to the booth, they take your money. Every holiday, no exception. I want to help make those holiday driving vacations more enjoyable by removing that toll booth frustration. My legislation will provide the much deserved relief from all of that holiday grief. The Interstate Highway System Toll-Free Holiday Act provides that no tolls will be collected and no vehicles will be stopped at toll booths on the Interstate System during peak holiday travel periods. The exact duration of the toll waivers will be left to the States to determine, but will include, at a minimum, the entire 24 hour period of each legal Federal holiday. The bill will also authorize the Secretary of Transportation to reimburse the State, at the State's request, for lost toll revenues out of the Highway Trust Fund, which is funded by the tax that we all pay when we purchase gas for our cars. I want to keep the State highway funds whole, and, at the same time, provide relief to all those who simply want a hassle-free holiday trip. There are currently some 2,200 miles of toll facilities on the 42,800 mile Interstate System. On peak holiday travel days, traffic increases up to 50 percent over a typical weekday. In New Hampshire last year, the I-95 Hampton toll booth had a 10 percent average increase in traffic over the four-day Fourth of July weekend compared to the previous weekend. That is equivalent to an additional 8,000 vehicles passing through this one toll booth every day. That increase in volume at the toll sites is not only an inconvenience in time and money, but also adds to safety concerns and, because vehicle emissions are higher when idling, air quality suffers. I am pleased that this bill will alleviate the headaches and problems associated with increased toll booth traffic on holidays. This is just one of what will be a series of bills that I will be introducing, as the Ranking Member of the Environment and Public Works Committee, to address transportation needs in New Hampshire and across the Nation, as we prepare for the reauthorization of the next major comprehensive highway bill in 2003. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to Sherry Burnett Young of Concord, NH, on being named as recipient of the Athena Award. The award is presented to an individual who has demonstrated excellence in her business or profession, served the community in a meaningful way and assisted women in reaching their full potential. Sherry is founder and director of the Rath, Young and Pignatelli law firm of Concord, NH. She began her legal career with Orr and Reno, P.A., of Concord, as an estate and trust attorney. She is involved in community service with several organizations including: Horizon Bank Board of Directors, New England Legal Foundation, Business and Industry Association of New Hampshire, and the New England Council. Some of her civic and charitable activities include: New Hampshire Historical Society Board of Trustees, Concord Hospital Board of Trustees, Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce and New Hampshire Chapter of the American Red Cross. Sherry is affiliated with professional memberships at the American Bar Association and the New Hampshire Bar Association. She is the first woman elected to chair the State Capital Law Firm, a global association of independent law firms throughout the Americas, Europe, Asia and Africa. In 2000, she was named as one of the top environmental lawyers in New Hampshire by New Hampshire Magazine. She is a graduate of Cornell University and Franklin Pierce School of Law and lives in Concord with her husband, Gary, and her three children: Garrett, Valerie and Alanna. I commend Sherry for her dedicated service and contributions to the citizens of New Hampshire and am proud to call her a friend. Her exemplary performance and civic awareness have benefitted the lives of the people of our State. It is an honor and a privilege to represent her in the Senate.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to Ron Welliver of Nashua, NH, on being named as Police Officer of the Year by the Nashua Exchange Club. Ron has been a dedicated member of the Nashua police force and his community for more than twenty years. An exemplary citizen, he has contributed to the civic needs of Nashua serving as a football coach at Fairgrounds Junior High School and baseball coach at Bishop Guertin High School in Nashua. Ron is a team player at the Nashua Police Department who accepted his award by giving praise and recognition to his fellow police officers. During his career he has worked in nearly all areas of the Nashua Police Department including: detective, undercover narcotics and recruiter assignments. Ron and his wife, Sue, reside in the Nashua area with their two daughters. I commend Ron Welliver for his dedicated service to the people of Nashua and our entire State. He is a role model to the Nashua community who risks his own safety as a law enforcement officer to protect the citizens of Nashua. It is truly an honor and a privilege to represent him in the Senate.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to Dr. Glenn DuBois for his service to the State of New Hampshire as Commissioner of the New Hampshire Community Technical College System. Glenn has taught for more than ten years working with students of all ages and from diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds. He has served for many years in State college and university positions and was appointed by the Governor to the Workforce Opportunity Council and Governor's Kid's Cabinet. He has served in many other capacities including: New Hampshire Governor's Commission on Information Technology, New Hampshire Post Secondary Education Commission, Job's for New Hampshire's Graduates Program and the New Hampshire Police Standards and Training Council. Glenn has been the recipient of many awards including: Distinguished Administrative Performance, President's Recognition, Award, Distinguished Service Award by the State University of New York, the highest recognition given by the faculty council, and most currently was named as New Hampshire's Leader for the 21st Century. Glenn is a tribute to his community and his profession. His ability, dedication and determination to serve the students and citizens of our State is commendable. It is an honor and a privilege to represent him in the Senate.