Bob Smith

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise today to congratulate Kathleen Jones and Moira Delahanty who have achieved national recognition for recieving the Prudential Spirit of Community Award. I commend their youthful spirit and aggressive drive to improve the quality of life in New Hampshire through community service. The award, presented by The Prudential Insurance Company of America in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principals, recognizes young people who have shown a great deal of commitment and dedication to improving their community. As New Hampshire's honorees, Kathleen and Moira will receive $1,000, a silver medallion and a trip in May to Washington, D.C., where they will join other honorees for four days of national events. According to Kathleen, she wanted to make a difference in her community and spend time helping others. As a result, she launched an environmental group called Earth Service Corps. Today, the group has nearly 70 members who help build and maintain hiking trails, initiate and conduct recycling programs, and plant trees throughout the state. Kathleen not only was the founder, but she also plans group meetings, serves as a liaison with community groups, and handles all administrative work for the Corps. Moira volunteers as an aide to a swimming instructor with the local chapter of the American Red Cross. She helps younger kids overcome their fears of water and then teaches them to swim. She completed a special training session and volunteered for one month over the course of two summers. Her love for teaching and her passion to help others overcome individual fears is a great attribute I admire dearly. I also would like to salute four other young people who were named Distinguished Finalists by The Prudential Spirit of Community Award and recieved the bronze medallion for their outstanding volunteer service. They are: Christopher Vachon, 14, Pinkerton Academy in Derry, created several multimedia presentations to promote driving safety among teenagers; Christopher Pappajohn, 16, Keene High School, raised $40,000 with a group of friends to build a skate park in his town; Joseph Allison, 13, Hudson Memorial Middle School, volunteers in his community for a variety of nearby organizations; and Justine Barrett, 14, West Running Brook Middle School in Derry, helped collect money for the needy through a Holiday Fund at her school. These extraordinary young people continue to keep alive the virtue of community service and inspire others to do the same. Their personal initiatives, dedicated service and hard work have impacted the lives of many. In a time when Americans seem to be less involved in their communities, these young Americans continue to defend and keep the community flame shining brightly. Mr. President, I want to congratulate these individuals for their outstanding work and I am proud to represent them in the U.S. Senate.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, let me say to my colleague from Missouri how much I appreciate his leadership, being out here hour after hour, many times alone, in opposition to this nomination. It is the right thing to do. I don't think it is a secret that probably we are going to lose this fight. But in the effort the Senator has distinguished himself in accenting what I think are the issues that need to be accented in this debate. The Senator pointed out a number of important other questions that have arisen, but I want to focus on one particular issue because, as the Senator said, I have written the legislation to ban partial-birth abortions here in the country. Regretfully, I must say, but for 3 votes in the U.S. Senate we would have a ban on partial-birth abortions--or, better put, perhaps if the President had not vetoed it, since we have 64 votes already in the Senate but we need 67, it would have come to pass. As I sat here for the last 15 or 20 minutes listening to my colleague, I couldn't help but think how frustrating it must have been, even for Lincoln in the time of the Civil War, basically having the courage to take on the issue of slavery. Ironically, it led to the destruction of one political party. The Whig Party went down and the Republican Party was formed in opposition to slavery. In those days, people refused to stand up on principle and lost a political party. I do not know if there is a lesson to be learned here, but it is certainly something to which we ought to give serious consideration. I know how the Senator feels because for many hours I stood here on the floor, in 1995, and took abuse from the national media. I still do take abuse from the national media, and many in the media in my own State, for pointing out what this procedure is and how horrible it is and how wrong it is. But we all know that there are many out there who fight hard to keep us from telling the truth on this issue. I want to get into that in a little more detail later, about just exactly what happened. But let me say on behalf of many, thank you for your leadership and stepping into the breech. As you know, there are many people who did not want us to make an issue of this; who wanted this nomination to slip by quietly so people wouldn't be ``embarrassed'' by having to vote on the Satcher nomination. But let me point out that the Surgeon General is America's family doctor. That is what he or she is supposed to be. When you go to see your family doctor you look for competence, certainly. You might want to take a look on the wall to see what his qualifications are, see where he studied. You certainly want to look for expertise. You want to look for somebody who works hard, who does a good job. You also want someone with moral authority. I know Dr. Satcher has a very distinguished record. But I ask whether or not, on an issue as important as this issue is, whether being passive is sufficient. Is it sufficient to say that you are not going to make an issue of partial- birth abortion if you are the Surgeon General, to say that you are not going to crusade for it, that you are just going to be passively for it? That is not good enough. That is not good enough. You want somebody who is grounded in common sense, who knows and understands the difference between right and wrong. Every day in the press today--we don't have to get into it. The American people know full well what I am talking about. But every day we are hearing suggestions that Americans no longer care. They do not care about right or wrong. They do not care about lying. They do not care about untruthfulness. They do not care about cheating. They do not care about setting a good example. We have to turn the television off now when our kids are in the room when we are talking about issues involving some of the leaders in our country. That is a pretty tragic commentary. Similarly, the family doctor, the Nation's family doctor, ought to be about saving lives, not taking lives. We are talking about taking lives here. Make no mistake about it. I was in a debate with a colleague on the floor of the Senate here a few years ago, in which this particular Senator said he had studied this issue very carefully and he realized that, until the third month, the fetus wasn't a person. I asked him if he could tell me what it was, then, for the first 3 months? There was not an answer. What is it for the first 3 months? We all know what it is. It's a life. It is a young child. And of course, in the context of partial-birth abortion, we are not talking about the first three months. What we are talking about in partial-birth abortion, as Senator Moynihan has said on the floor of this Senate, is infanticide of a later-term baby. It is executing a little child. That is what it is. We are hearing today that families of America should not care whether their family doctor--the doctor for America--knows the difference between right and wrong, that we should not care whether our family doctor believes that killing a little child as her body rests in your hands is wrong or right. You should not care about that. It does not matter, as long as he believes in the President, as long as he supports the President and doesn't say anything about it. It will be all right. Would we have ended slavery if we had taken that approach? Would we have ended generations and generations of racial prejudice and discrimination? We still have not ended these, but would we have made the inroads that we have made? I don't think so. I don't believe it and I don't believe that deep down in their souls the American people believe it either. That is why I am here today. I am not here today to cast any aspersions or make any commentary on Dr. Satcher's general character. He has had a very distinguished career. But he is wrong. He is wrong on this issue. And as long as I have a vote I intend to exercise that vote against this nomination. I know it is not going to be a vote that we are going to win--and that is unfortunate. Now I should probably know better than to expect this President to pick someone for Surgeon General who is going to be against abortion or even against partial-birth abortion. This President is for abortion. He is for partial-birth abortion. He has vetoed the legislation we sent him two or three times now. We do not have quite the number of votes to override him. We are only 3 short, though. When you hear people tell you that votes don't matter, or your vote doesn't matter, or one vote doesn't matter--I would ask you to reflect for a moment on this. This bill has been brought through the process two or three times, through the House, through the Senate, up to the President's desk and vetoed. We are but three votes away from stopping the execution of little children as they come from the womb. That is what we are talking about. That is what partial-birth abortion is. Three votes. If three people in the U.S. Senate changed their mind we could change that. If we had a family doctor who would be willing to use the bully pulpit to talk about this issue, we might be able to influence those three votes. You never know. But we are not going to influence them with a Surgeon General who says, ``It's OK. It is all right. There is nothing wrong with it.'' And that is why we are here. I am going to oppose this nomination, along with Senator Ashcroft and others, because it is morally wrong to kill little children as they exit their mothers' wombs. I would say, deep down in your heart--no matter where you are, who you are, how you feel about abortion in general--you probably agree with me. You can get into all these other debates about who is responsible, who has the right to do this, who has the right to choose and all that. But deep down in your heart, do you think that is right? Do you think it is right that the chief medical person, the family doctor of America, won't speak out against it? Do you think it is right that the President of the United States refuses to appoint someone who will speak out against it to this post? Do you think the President is right? Maybe some of these folks ought to witness some partial-birth abortions, like nurse Brenda Pratt Shafer did. Until shortly before I came to the floor in 1995 and discussed this issue, I didn't know what partial-birth abortion was. One of the people I discussed it with was nurse Brenda Pratt Shafer who considered herself ``pro-choice'' until she accepted a temporary assignment at a clinic where partial-birth abortions are performed. Of course, we've heard all kinds of things from the other side of this debate. They said we only do a few of them a year, maybe a few dozen. They said it is only done in the case of extreme deformities. I said it wasn't so and I was attacked on the floor of the Senate and attacked in the press. I still am being attacked in the press. Come to find out, it is several thousand a year. This news came from prominent people in the abortion industry, a few people like Ron Fitzsimmons, the head of the National Coalition of Abortion Providers who came out and told the truth. He said, ``I lied through my teeth.'' Now we know, and in spite of the fact that we know, we still are faced with a nominee for Surgeon General who won't oppose this brutal procedure. With all the problems we face in America today, all the terrible things, what is wrong with our country when we can't get enough people in the Senate to override the President's veto of a bill to stop the killing of children, as their bodies are literally in the hands of the abortionist? What is wrong with this country? What are we coming to? We shouldn't even have to be on the floor of the U.S. Senate talking about this. We shouldn't have to be here. The Constitution protects life, but we are not abiding by the Constitution. When I introduced the partial-birth abortion ban in the Senate in June of 1995--we prevailed with 54 votes ultimately. I believe that is correct, 54 votes. I think we started off with maybe 40, but then I began to describe the procedure, and I remember Senators coming down here saying how horrible it was that in front of the American people I would talk about this. Well, why not? Why shouldn't we talk about it? Do you know what a partial-birth abortion is? Let me tell you what it is. We are talking about a child anywhere from the fifth month to the ninth month. In the first step, guided by ultrasound, the abortionist grabs the baby's leg with the forceps. This is the first step. The baby's leg, in the second step, is pulled into the birth canal. Then in the third step, the abortionist, by taking hold of that little child's feet, pulls the child entirely through the birth canal with the exception of the head, restraining it from being completely born. The abortionist then uses scissors which he puts into the baby's skull. He then opens the scissors to enlarge the hole, and, the final step, the scissors are removed and a suction catheter is inserted. The child's brains are sucked out, causing the skull to collapse, and the dead baby is then removed. That is what partial-birth abortion is. Let's understand what it is. That is a process that our Nation's family doctor will not oppose, that our President, the President of the United States will not oppose. There are two very famous ships in American history. One of them was the Titanic that sailed from Great Britain in the early 1900s. The other was the Mayflower that sailed in the 1600s from England. On the Mayflower, there was a group of people who knew where they were going and who knew what they wanted to do when they got there. They had a turbulent voyage. People died during the voyage. They hit storms. It was a long, long ride, but they got here. They landed on the beaches and began to found a nation. They knew what they wanted to do, and they did it. The Titanic sailed from England three centuries later. They were happily and merrily enjoying themselves, drinking and dining. But the crew failed to navigate the obstacles and the Titanic hit an iceberg and sank. Figuratively speaking, the Roman Empire hit an iceberg and sank into history. I say to you today, with the greatest respect for the differences of opinion on this issue, that there are huge moral icebergs out there facing the U.S.S. America today, the ship of state. There are a lot of them. Abortion is one of them, and partial-birth abortion itself is a big one. If we can't speak up for the babies who are innocent victims of an abortionist's scissors, then we are going to run smack into that iceberg and we are going to sink. Sometimes, when we take the Senate floor to speak, we wonder how important our words are. Sometimes they are not important at all; sometimes they are very important. But at some point, you have to look back and you have to say to yourself, ``Did I sit by and not do what was right or say what was right?'' or ``Did I speak up for what I believed in?'' I don't want to serve in the U.S. Senate if I can't do that. I am perfectly happy to have history judge me. Not by contemporaries in the media. I could care less what they say or how often they say it. It is irrelevant. History will be my judge, and history will be the judge of this debate. History will be the judge of the debate on abortion, and history will be on the side of those who stood up for life. I am convinced of that. I know that. So I don't worry about it. I used to get upset, but today I am very calm about it. Inside I am not calm, because it is a sad, sad commentary on America. That iceberg looms out there, and it is big. With three more votes in the U.S. Senate, we could melt that iceberg and take it out of the way of the American ship of state. We could get those three votes if we had a Surgeon General and a President who had the courage to hold a two minute press conference to say: ``This is wrong, this is wrong. You know, I've thought about this. I'm for abortion but this is infanticide'' We could succeed if the President came to the same conclusion that Senator Pat Moynihan did and said, ``This is wrong. I am going to stop it. You send me that bill again and I won't veto it. And I'll send you a Surgeon General who will speak out against this and let's try to stop this brutal procedure that takes innocent life in such a brutal way.'' I can't get a hard-and-fast number for how many partial-birth abortions are performed. Nobody will really talk about it but it is estimated to be several thousand. You have to ask yourself, what those several thousand human beings would have done with their lives. Just as we must ask the same question about each of the more than one million human beings destroyed by abortion every year in this country. We will never know. Is there a President of the United States in that group? Is there a doctor who will find a cure for cancer or a preacher who will save some souls? We will never know. They never had a chance. This Nation, but for three votes, stands by and lets it happen, to several thousand of these children even as they leave the birth canal. And this Senate tomorrow will vote to make Surgeon General a man who won't speak out against it. When this debate began in 1995, some worked hard to hide the truth. But Ron Fitzsimmons had the courage to speak out and admit, ``I lied through my teeth.'' They denied there was such a thing as a partial- birth abortion. ``It's a phrase that was coined by the pro-life lobby,'' they said, ``There's no such thing.'' And when they had to admit that there was such a procedure, they lied about what happens to a baby who is a victim of the procedure. But the web of lies spun by those determined to defend the indefensible has finally unraveled, and the American people now know the truth. And how do our two great political parties face up to this truth? In one political party, there is not even an issue. That party doesn't make any comment on life. Abortion is fine in that political party. In my political party, we take a position in favor of life. But--and this is the part that sends me in orbit--we say ``be pro-life but don't talk about it. It offends too many people. Just say, `I'm pro-life, what's your next question? Is there a question on Iraq or maybe a question on education? Could we talk about something else?' '' I have been hearing it for 13 years in politics. All the consultants say, ``Don't talk about abortion.'' Well, I did in my last election. They tried to make me pay the price for it. I barely won, but I won, and you know what: If I had lost, I would have lost because I believed in something, and I would have gone on with my life. I often wonder what would Lincoln have said about this, or what would Jefferson have said? It is really sad; it is really sad. In 1995, the abortion industry said that all of these procedures are performed in situations where the mother's well-being is imperiled. But then the American Medical Association endorsed a ban on partial-birth abortions. And both Houses of Congress passed such a ban. And now only Bill Clinton and his veto pen prevent us from stopping this procedure. So as we consider Dr. Satcher's fitness to fill an office that provides a bully pulpit on matters of health, I believe that it is appropriate to inquire about his views on the subject. This has been quoted before here on the floor, but let me repeat it. Here is what Dr. Satcher said about partial-birth abortion: I support the President's position. The President opposes late-term abortions except where necessary to protect the life and health of the mother. The partial-birth abortion ban bills passed by Congress protect the life of the mother. But the President's insistence on a ``health'' exception is really a demand for language so broad that courts will interpret it to mean partial-birth abortion-on-demand. For that reason, we must ask: Does politics or science guide Dr. Satcher's abortion views? The Physicians' Ad Hoc Coalition for Truth, a nationwide coalition of hundreds of doctors formed to refute misinformation about partial-birth abortion, has asked why Dr. Satcher is so far out of the mainstream on partial-birth abortion. Physicians' Ad Hoc Coalition for Truth--citing the opinions of doctors holding a variety of views on the broader issue of abortion, including the American Medical Association-- have concluded there is no medical reason for using this barbaric partial-birth abortion procedure. They express concern that Dr. Satcher ``may be relying on politics rather than medicine in reaching his conclusions about abortion.'' The ``life-and-health'' position is a political position. Worse, is politics that will cost the lives of innocent unborn children. It is amazing really to look at the intensity of the attacks on those of us who stand up here and speak out on this issue. They are venomous, they are vicious, but it's worth it. Someday I will look back. If any of my grandchildren ask me where I was when this issue was being debated, I can tell them in good conscience where I was. I am proud to be here today on the Senate floor defending unborn children in the context of this nomination. I am proud to be here. I wish I did not have to be here because we should not have to stand here on the floor of the Senate to do this because it is a right that these children have under the Constitution, one outrageous Supreme Court decision notwithstanding. Mr. President, I will oppose President Clinton's choice of Dr. Satcher for the position of Surgeon General. I will make that vote proudly. It is the least we can do when, as a result of the President's position--the position upheld by the nominee under consideration today--thousands of innocent lives will be brutally extinguished. Mr. President, I yield the floor.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise today to congratulate William T. Frain Jr., a distinguished individual, for being named Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year for 1997. I commend his consistent drive and aggressive encouragement to improve the quality of life for his fellow citizens. William has held many officer roles as well as been a member of many organizations. To name a few, he has been involved in the Board of Directors of the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, New Hampshire Business Committee for the Arts, and New Hampshire Better Business Bureau. He also devotes a great deal of time to civic and charitable endeavors including the Eastern Seal Society, Junior Achievement, The Humanities Council and Bishop of Manchester's Summer Reception Fund Committee. These are just a few organizations with which he has spent countless hours and dedicated service. This impressive list goes on and he should be very proud of these contributions. William has enthusiastically worked with more than twenty organizations, countless residents and employees, and developed a considerable portfolio of citizenship. Four words come to mind that best represent what William is trying to strengthen: community, teamwork, partnership, and development. These are terms that bind all Americans together and strengthen the unity of this great country. These words best exhibit the tools he employs to bring about positive change and as a leader, encouraging others to rise to the calling of citizenship. Yet, William is not just a great citizen, but a defender of companionship and a visionary of better communities. William's commitment to each organization he represents is extremely solid and substantial. He gives it his all and inspires others to follow his lead. His actions and beliefs have become a catalyst for significant change resulting in profound achievements. Mr. President, I want to congratulate William for his outstanding work and I am proud to represent him in the U.S. Senate.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I am pleased to join Senators Hatch and Cleland and others, as an original co-sponsor of S.J. Res. 40, the proposed constitutional amendment to protect our Nation's flag. The act of flag burning--or any other kind of flag desecration--is an aggressive, provocative act. It is also an act of violence against the symbol of America--our flag. Even more disturbing, it is an act of violence against our country's values and principles. The Constitution guarantees freedom, but it also seeks to assure, in the words of the Preamble, ``domestic Tranquility.'' Many Americans have given their lives to protect freedom and democracy as symbolized by the flag. In my own family, my father died in a service-related accident during World War II. Our family was presented with his burial flag. That flag means a great deal to our family--and we believe that the flag deserves protection under the law. Some people believe that outlawing desecration of the flag--which this Constitutional Amendment would authorize the Congress to do--would lead to the destruction of ``freedom.'' I disagree. Our Constitution was carefully crafted to protect our freedom, but also to promote responsibility. We are stepping on dangerous ground when we allow reckless behavior such as flag burning or other forms of physical desecration of the flag. The Constitution that our Nation's Founders fashioned has survived the tests of time, but it has also been amended on 27 occasions. Under our Constitution, the Supreme Court does not have more power than the people. The people do not have to accept every Supreme Court decision-- because ultimate authority rests in the Constitution, which the people have the power to amend. The idea of amending the Constitution is serious business. We have found, however, that a simple statute is not enough. We tried that, and the Court struck it down. We must stand for something or we stand for nothing. I stand for a constitutional amendment authorizing Congress to ban flag desecration and I am confident that we will succeed in passing it in this Congress and submitting it to the States for ratification.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I am pleased to join Senators Hatch and Cleland and others, as an original co-sponsor of S.J. Res. 40, the proposed constitutional amendment to protect our Nation's flag. The act of flag burning--or any other kind of flag desecration--is an aggressive, provocative act. It is also an act of violence against the symbol of America--our flag. Even more disturbing, it is an act of violence against our country's values and principles. The Constitution guarantees freedom, but it also seeks to assure, in the words of the Preamble, ``domestic Tranquility.'' Many Americans have given their lives to protect freedom and democracy as symbolized by the flag. In my own family, my father died in a service-related accident during World War II. Our family was presented with his burial flag. That flag means a great deal to our family--and we believe that the flag deserves protection under the law. Some people believe that outlawing desecration of the flag--which this Constitutional Amendment would authorize the Congress to do--would lead to the destruction of ``freedom.'' I disagree. Our Constitution was carefully crafted to protect our freedom, but also to promote responsibility. We are stepping on dangerous ground when we allow reckless behavior such as flag burning or other forms of physical desecration of the flag. The Constitution that our Nation's Founders fashioned has survived the tests of time, but it has also been amended on 27 occasions. Under our Constitution, the Supreme Court does not have more power than the people. The people do not have to accept every Supreme Court decision-- because ultimate authority rests in the Constitution, which the people have the power to amend. The idea of amending the Constitution is serious business. We have found, however, that a simple statute is not enough. We tried that, and the Court struck it down. We must stand for something or we stand for nothing. I stand for a constitutional amendment authorizing Congress to ban flag desecration and I am confident that we will succeed in passing it in this Congress and submitting it to the States for ratification.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise today to congratulate Ben Kendig Jr., a distinguished individual, for being named the 1997 Hospital Auxiliary/Volunteer of the year. I commend his compassion for others in volunteering countless hours for the service of his fellow citizens. Ben bravely served his country as a fighter pilot in World War II. After the war, he attended Massachusetts Institute of Technology and received his degree in aeronautical engineering. Ben then used his skills working at United Aircraft. After that, he then decided to settle down in Nashua, New Hampshire, and opened up his own engineering firm. After 15 years of running his own business, he decided to retire. However, at the age of 71, he still had plenty of energy and drive so he decided to put it to good use. According to Ben, he wanted to spend his time helping others, an attribute that I admire greatly. As a result, he joined the Southern New Hampshire Regional Medical Center Messenger Service. Ben initially wanted an easy position with little responsibility, however, it developed into something much greater. As time went on, Ben accepted more responsibility and assumed leadership roles within the Messenger Service. His dedication to service and supportive energy exceeded the normal expectations of any volunteer. Naturally, people turned to him in times of need. Unfortunately, the president and the director of auxiliary was diagnosed with cancer. Like many times before, Ben picked up the reins of leadership and was appointed the president of the Messenger Service. This arduous job involved overseeing over 200 volunteers, a position that certainly would test any man. Close to 30,000 hours of time had to be delegated throughout the hospital. Ben also had a budget of $100,000 the organization had to distribute to improve certain areas of the hospital like the maternity ward. Ben gave not just to the hospital, but to each and every individual with whom he worked. He inspired others by his own actions and caring attitude. Ben exceeded the expectations and surpassed the ordinary responsibilities of a volunteer. Mr. President, I want to congratulate Ben for his outstanding work and I am proud to represent 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 Vicki Donovan for being named New Hampshire's 1998 Teacher of the Year. Vicki is a fourth-grade teacher at Belmont Elementary School, where she has taught for eleven years. I commend her outstanding accomplishment and well-deserved honor. Vicki, who lives in Belmont, will spend the next year representing New Hampshire's teachers at various statewide and regional functions. As New Hampshire's Teacher of the Year, she will be considered for the National Teacher of the Year Award sponsored by the Council of Chief State School Officers and Scholastic, Inc. The National Teacher of the Year Program is the oldest and most prestigious honors program to focus public attention on excellence in teaching. New Hampshire's Commissioner of Education, Elizabeth Twomey, named Vicki the Teacher of the Year. Vicki's accomplishments as a teacher are numerous. She organized Belmont Elementary School's yearbook in her first year there, and has taught at several grade levels in the elementary school. She is involved with the Belmont Elementary School Support Group, B.E.S.T., and has served on the town's Civic Profile Committee, Government Study Group, and Youth and Education Committee. In addition to her numerous extracurricular accomplishments, Vicki has excelled in perhaps the most important area: her students. Vicki's students say their experience with her as their teacher marked their best year in school. New Hampshire has always been fortunate to have many talented teachers, but Vicki Donovan is certainly a role model among teachers of the Granite State. As a former teacher myself, I am proud of her commitment to education and congratulate her on this distinguished achievement.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise today to congratulate Paul Holloway, a distinguished individual and good friend, on being selected to become the President of the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA). As a friend of Paul's for over a decade, I commend his outstanding achievement and compliment him on this well- deserved honor. Paul will be the first New Hampshire automobile dealer to serve as President of NADA. This is a great honor not only for Paul, but for the Granite State. It is Paul's strong work ethic and Yankee ingenuity that have catapulted he and his wife, Anna Grace, from the first Buick- Pontiac dealership they bought in 1967 to the five dealerships they have today. Paul's strong drive and spirit was exhibited forty years ago when Paul passed up a career in professional football to finish his bachelor of science degree in business at Temple University in Philadelphia. Paul was drafted as a linebacker by several teams, but instead decided to pursue his career in the automobile industry. New Hampshire is fortunate that he made the choice he did. I am certain Anna Grace, along with their children Scott and Debra, are as proud of Paul's achievements as are his friends and colleagues in New Hampshire. Paul's commitment and dedication to excellence will benefit the members of NADA as much as it has the people of New England. Paul Holloway will be a vibrant and effective leader for NADA. Congratulations, Paul, on this outstanding recognition by your colleagues in the industry. I know you will meet this new challenge with honor and distinction. I am proud to represent you in the U.S. Senate and proud to call you a friend.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. New Hampshire's media corps will suffer a great loss in January 1998 when Donn Tibbetts steps down after 25 years as The Union Leader newspaper's Concord, New Hampshire Bureau Chief. Donn is a New Hampshire institution, and will be missed by all of us who call him our friend. Donn's career in journalism has spanned nearly 50 years--first as a broadcaster and then, since April 3, 1972, as a reporter and columnist for the Loeb newspapers. He has covered the often-colorful politics of the Granite State, writing the well-known ``Under the State House Dome'' column. As Dean of the State House press corps, he has been a leader in chronicling presidential primaries, state elections, nine governors, and the State Legislature--the largest in the nation. He has traveled to national conventions for the Democrat and Republican parties, interviewed presidents, and even sat down to talk with me on many occasions! My interviews with Donn always left us sharing a laugh--and the resulting stories were always fair, thorough, and forthright, as is always Donn's style. Donn's knowledge and expertise about New Hampshire politics is second to none. He is the author of ``The Closest U.S. Senate Race in History,'' a book about the hotly contested, historic election for New Hampshire's U.S. Senate seat in 1974 between John Durkin and Louis Wyman--an election that was won by one vote, with a subsequent second election being held the following year. Donn's accomplishments--from sports disk jockey to television host to political columnist--have brought him many accolades from distinguished individuals across the country. The late William Loeb, frank publisher of the Union Leader, said Donn is ``a man of great integrity.'' Former New Hampshire Governor John Sununu said of Donn: ``Nobody is fairer and nobody is more of a credit to their profession than Donn. . .'' Donn is originally from Manchester, and then went on to attend Lasalle Military Academy in Long Island, and the University of New Hampshire. He served 28 years in the military and the reserves with the same honor and distinction he has brought to his career as a journalist. He has been a community and civic leader, as well as a dedicated husband, father and grandfather. Retirement is a time of reflection, and I know that Donn will spend his retirement years enjoying the memories of his rich and fulfilling career. I have been told that he is leaving for Corpus Christi, Texas the day after he retires, to spend time traveling with his wife, Janie, and visiting his seven grandchildren and twin great-granddaughters. Donn, I wish you all the best for a wonderful retirement. You are a man of character, commitment and dignity. We will all miss you.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise in strong support of the conference report on the fiscal year 1998 Defense authorization bill. I want to specifically commend the distinguished chairman of the Armed Services Committee, Senator Thurmond, for his outstanding leadership in formulating this legislation. I also want to thank the Senator from Michigan, Senator Levin, for his profound contributions to this legislation. Mr. President, although this has been a long and difficult conference, the product of these labors is an excellent defense bill. This legislation will provide for necessary modernization of our Armed Forces, and significantly improve the quality of life for our service members and their families. Importantly, this bill addresses in a very fair and appropriate manner, a variety of issues upon which the administration expressed strong concerns. Many of these issues had been represented as possibly triggering a veto. These include Bosnia, the B-2 bomber program, and the depot maintenance provisions. But the conferees dealt in good faith on these issues, and have offered honest compromises that address the administration's concerns. In particular, the depot maintenance provisions have been modified to accommodate the strongly held concerns of the administration and the Senators from Texas and California. The resulting language is, in my view, balanced, fair, and consistent with our national security interests. However, in listening to yesterday's floor statements by the Senators from Texas and California, I could not help but think that they were looking at some other bill, because the characterizations made about the depot provisions in the conference report were grossly inaccurate. Mr. President, let me make clear that I am an advocate for competition. Whether it be private sector competition among defense firms, or competition between public sector and private sector facilities, I believe that fair and honest competition makes sense for the American taxpayers and should be pursued wherever practical and consistent with our national security requirements. The conference report includes a compromise on depot maintenance that would require the conduct of fair and open competitions at the Kelly and McClellan air logistics centers. The compromise would specifically define ``depot maintenance'' to include contractor logistics support and interim contractor support. It also requires that the Defense Department maintain the capability in public depots to perform maintenance work on certain mission essential weapons systems that the Secretary of Defense and Joint Chiefs deem necessary as part of our national military strategy. Mr. President, the language is very clear and the intent is even more clear. The conferees support free and open competition for depot maintenance work. With all due respect to the Senators from Texas and California, who suggest otherwise, their assessment of this language is simply not accurate. The truth is, many Senators, including my friend from Oklahoma, Senator Inhofe, have very strong concerns on this issue. I want to commend Senator Inhofe for his willingness to compromise so much on this issue. He has been very statesmanlike throughout these negotiations, and anyone who looks at this objectively will come to the conclusion that he has acted in good faith and has gone the extra mile to facilitate a resolution on this issue. Mr. President, as a senior member of the Armed Services Committee, I was deeply troubled by some of the assertions made by the Senators from Texas and California during yesterday's debate. In particular, I was troubled by the statement by one member to the effect that ``we do not even need a Defense authorization bill since we have already passed the Defense appropriations bill.'' With all due respect, this statement is flat out wrong. The truth is, we need this bill to authorize pay raises and bonuses, military end strengths, and military construction and family housing. If there is no fiscal year 1998 Defense authorization: Higher end strengths will remain in effect without funding to sustain them; There will be no reform of basic allowances for subsistence and quarters; All bonuses will continue at present levels, which prevents authorized increases to aviation and nuclear officer bonuses; The Navy will lose the ability to have the CNO's choice for Chief of Chaplains; Construction of 385 military construction and 45 family housing projects will not be initiated; There will be no authority to continue the Challenge Program; There will be no authority to expand the counternarcotics Riverine Program in Peru and Colombia; There will be no authority to increase counternarcotics support to Mexico; There will be no authority for the Department of Navy to reprogram funding for the advanced procurement and construction of components for the next nuclear aircraft carrier; and There will be no authority to accelerate the NATO JSTARS Program. Mr. President, as you can see, the authorization bill is urgently needed for a variety of compelling reasons. While I respect the views of my friends from Texas and California, I must honestly say that I do not believe they are being reasonable. The conferees conceded to approximately 80 percent of the requests made by advocates of Kelly and McClellan. The House Depot Caucus and the Senators from Oklahoma, Georgia, and Utah have negotiated in good faith. The result is a very reasonable compromise. Mr. President, in an honest negotiation, no one gets everything. Both sides must give and take. In this case, it is very clear that the Oklahoma, Utah, and Georgia delegations have given a great deal. In fact, I would say they have gone above and beyond the call of duty to facilitate a fair resolution on this issue. Accordingly, I would call upon my colleagues to reject any further attempts to stall this legislation or to prevent its enactment. The Armed Services Committee has worked diligently, in a bipartisan fashion, to formulate a very responsible and constructive defense bill. We owe it to our men and women in uniform, and particularly those deployed in harms way throughout the world, to pass this legislation promptly. I urge my colleagues to support the fiscal year 1998 Defense authorization conference report. depot compromise

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise today to congratulate two outstanding youths, Meagan Corlin and Alia Szopa, who are the 1997 honorees from New Hampshire for the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards. These awards, sponsored by the Prudential Insurance Co. of America in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principals, honor outstanding, self-initiated community service by young people in middle and high school grades. The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards, the country's largest youth recognition program based solely on community service, were created in 1995 following a nationwide survey of high school students. The survey indicated that while 95 percent of teenagers believe community volunteer work is important, a large proportion don't know how to get involved and lack role models that could inspire them to seek out volunteer opportunities. As a former high school teacher, I am well aware of the importance of empowering students with volunteer opportunities. Meagan and Alia have both created innovative community service programs to serve various needs in their respective communities. Meagan Corlin, from Strafford School in Center Strafford, NH, created a reading program called Story-time on the Road to share her love of books with others. She uses her title as Miss New Hampshire Pre-Teen to promote her program to day care centers, libraries, elderly housing facilities, and homeless shelters. Each week, she and several of her schoolmates travel to these various locations in order to read stories to children or to the elderly. Alia Szopa, from Central High School in Manchester, NH, created a dance program called Legato for pre-teen girls with developmental disabilities. Her program works in conjunction with the Moore Center, an agency serving the disabled, to provide training for dance instructors who will teach the children at the center. One hour each week, from November to June, Szopa and five other instructors teach basic dance to five students. School honorees are judged by State selection committees, which name the top middle-level and high school volunteer in each State. These State-level honorees receive a silver medallion, $1,000 and a trip to Washington, DC with a parent or guardian, for several days of national recognition events in May. Also, in May, America's top 10 youth volunteers for 1998 are chosen from the State-level honorees by a blue- ribbon national selection panel. These 10 national honorees will be announced at a special ceremony at the National Press Club in Washington, where they each will receive an additional $5,000, a gold medallion and a crystal trophy for his or her school. Meagan and Alia have made significant contributions to their communities and to the State of New Hampshire. Not only have they served their community selflessly, but they have also served as inspirational role models to other students. Volunteerism strengthens community life as well as enhances the lives of people. I applaud Meagan and Alia's dedication and innovation in creating programs to serve the needs of citizens in their community. Without these young leaders, our country would be lost. It takes a special person to make a difference in someone's life. Meagan and Alia are indeed special and treasures to their school, the State of New Hampshire and to our country.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President I rise today to honor the town of Hampton Falls, NH, for celebrating its 275th anniversary on November 22, 1997. The town is planning an evening of celebration, commemoration, and entertainment on this most important date. There will be a dinner party, a musical presentation by the Winnacunnet High School Chamber Singers, and a historical slide show dedicated to 275 years of history and heritage. This special night is certain to include full participation from the town's proud people. Originally, Hampton Falls was part of the town of Hampton. However, due to its seacoast location, high tides often prevented those living in the area from attending the church. In 1709 the General Assembly of Portsmouth acted on this problem and gave the residents permission to maintain a separate church. Nine years later Hampton Falls became a separate parish. That same year the first town meeting was held in which selectmen and a town clerk were elected. Hampton Falls, however, still remained a part of Hampton. The townspeople successfully petitioned for independence from their parent church after the death of the minister from that town. On November 22, 1722, the town was incorporated as an independent jurisdiction. Hampton Falls can be categorized as the quintessential New England town through its history and scenery. During the eighteenth century the local economy was dominated by mills; sawmills, gristmills, and cotton mills dotted the landscape and provided for a major source of employment. Also, the town served as an important post town where horse changes were frequently made. At times, up to 125 horses could be found stabled within this small vicinity. One of the most significant stables in the area was the Wells Inn, which could accommodate 40 horses. Today, the stage house is known as the Wellswood Inn, and provides fine food and atmosphere to patrons. On December 13, 1774 Paul Revere passed through Hampton Falls on his legendary ride from Boston to Portsmouth proclaiming the arrival of the British. Few towns can claim a more American existence. Hampton Falls, with its simple white churches and colonial buildings, provides for a prime example of American history and culture. Today, Hampton Falls is a thriving southern New Hampshire community of approximately 1,700 people. The town is unmistakably New England. Winding country roads bring one past many sprawling farms and picture- perfect farmhouses. Presently, the town's central industry is agriculture. A major area business is Applecrest Farms, one of the last working orchards on the seacoast. Applecrest celebrates the harvest season with pick-your-own apples, a country farmers market, and entertainment. Harvest season is a festive time in Hampton Falls, and it seems fitting that the town's anniversary would be during this period. I congratulate the residents of this beautiful town on 275 years of distinguished history, and wish to extend my very best wishes of continued prosperity. Happy birthday, Hampton Falls.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to the memory of Sgt. William Roy Pearson, USAF. Earlier today, his remains were returned to his native town of Webster, New Hampshire where he will finally be properly laid to rest with full military honors this weekend, more than 25 years following his tragic loss in Vietnam. Sergeant Pearson was the all American boy who grew up in a small, New Hampshire town, played varsity baseball and soccer all four years at Merrimack Valley High School, and then, like his father before him, went off to serve his country in time of war. As an Air Force Pararescue ``Maroon Beret'', he was awarded a Silver Star, Purple Heart, two Distinguished Flying Crosses, and five air medals for his actions. To Sergeant Pearson, living up to the USAF Pararescuemen motto--``that others may live''--was a daily routine in the jungles of Vietnam. Then came the tragic day on April 6, 1972 when once again his unit was called upon to rescue a downed U.S. Air Force pilot whose rescue story was later depicted in the movie, BAT-21. During the rescue attempt conducted by Sergeant Pearson and his crewmembers, the Jolly Green was shot down by enemy fire, killing those on board. Sergeant Pearson was only 20 years old. But it was not until two decades later that U.S. personnel were finally permitted by Vietnam to fully investigate and excavate what remained of the crash site. Despite the passage of time, the recovery team was able to identify and repatriate the remains of Sergeant Pearson, and we are grateful to our military for their efforts in this regard. Sergeant Pearson was a hero, not only for his commitment to freedom and the sacrifices he made by serving in Vietnam, but also for his courage in trying to save a comrade, who, I might add, was eventually rescued six days later. His heroic deeds were exemplary of the New Hampshire spirit of duty, honor, and valor, and his story will be an inspiring and moving one in the history of United States Air Force Pararescue for all generations that follow in his footsteps. As a fellow Vietnam veteran and a long-time advocate for the families of our POWs and MIAs who have suffered uncertainty for far too many years, my thoughts and prayers are with Sergeant Pearson's parents, siblings, family members, fellow comrades, and friends. I know they are all very proud of his service, as they now close this long, sad chapter in their lives. Finally, Mr. President, I also want to publicly thank the United States Air Force, including personnel at Hanscom Air Force Base in Massachusetts, and Sergeant Pearson's fellow Maroon Berets for the special care they have taken to honor their own, and to bid Sergeant Pearson a fitting farewell in a such a dignified manner. I know that the honors bestowed on Sergeant Pearson by the Air Force during this difficult weekend ahead will help to console those who have suffered the most from his loss. It has been a long wait, but we are grateful he has now returned home for this fitting final goodbye in New Hampshire.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President I rise today to honor Bob Hill of Bow, NH. Mr. Hill was recently named Citizen of the Year by the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce. Each year the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce selects a man or woman who has made significant contributions to the standard of living in the community of Concord and its surrounding towns. The chamber of commerce looks for an individual who displays a commitment to others, demonstrates leadership, concern and dedication. Bob Hill, the winner this year, was surprised he was recognized. However, Bob's modesty underestimates the honorable and admirable characteristics he has clearly shown. Bob was honored for his numerous contributions to community organizations. He serves on the boards of the YMCA, the Capitol Center for the Arts, and the Concord Boys and Young People Club. Bob has also raised funds for Camp Spaulding in New Hampshire, allowing low- and moderate-income families the opportunity to send their children to camp. This cause is especially dear to Bob's heart because he attended Camp Spaulding as a young boy and has first-hand knowledge of the benefits. Bob is also known to lend a helping hand in any area. He is not afraid to give his time and energies to a cause of which he has limited knowledge, but a great interest. For example, Bob was instrumental in taking the Capitol Center for the Arts from an idea and making it a reality. Friends and colleagues refer to him as a warm and straightforward man, known for passionately tackling tasks and one who adamantly believes in giving back to the community. As a testament to Bob's unselfish nature, in his acceptance speech he spent little time talking about his achievements, but rather recalled the achievements and memories of others. Bob commented that law enforcement officials do not receive the daily recognition they deserve. He asked the audience of over 300 for a moment of silence for these men and women. In addition, Bob recognized the other people in the community whose accomplishments are similar to his own and who raise the standard of life in the community. This type of commitment to one's community is extremely worthy of homage. Bob is an asset to his town as well as to the State of New Hampshire. I admire, appreciate, and commend Bob's devotion to his beliefs and to the people. He is an invaluable citizen who has set an example for others to follow. I commend Bob for his contributions, and I congratulate him for receiving the distinguished honor of Citizen of the Year.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to Dean Kamen of Manchester, NH. Mr. Kamen was recently inducted into the renowned National Academy of Engineers for his invention and commercialization of biomedical devices and fluid measurement and control systems. Mr. Kamen is currently the president of DEKA Research and Development Corp. of Manchester, NH. He studied at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, where he earned his degrees in physics and has also received an honorary doctorate of science degree from Worcester Polytechnic Institute as well as Daniel Webster College. Dean has more than 35 U.S. patents attributed to him which range from a volumetric pump with replaceable reservoir assembly to an integral intravenous fluid delivery device. Dean's innovations and significant contributions to the field of engineering have strengthened the economy of New Hampshire as well as the Nation. Dean is also recognized for using skills and influence to promote scientific inquiry at this critical time in America, a time when more young people are needed in the fields of science. Combining sports and scientific discovery, Dean established the FIRST robotics competition for young people. He is currently working on a science and technology museum project in Manchester, NH, which will be a valuable addition to the town, as well as the scientific community. Entrance into the National Academy of Engineers is an extremely prestigious honor. In fact, it is among the highest honors with which an engineer can be bestowed. Engineers are nominated and then elected to the academy by the current membership. Becoming a member is a validation of an engineer's great contributions to science by his peers, and many scientists work to achieve this honor throughout their lives. Dean is one of 85 engineers and 8 foreign associates who was inducted into the academy in early October. Dean's induction into the National Academy of Engineering is only one of the numerous honors he has received. He is a fellow with the American Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering, in addition to being appointed a senior lecturer at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Renowed the world over in various science fields for inventions and advances in engineering, Dean has established a tradition of greatness with his work. In 1995 he was awarded the Hoover Medal for ``innovation that has advanced medical care worldwide, and for innovative and imaginative leadership in awakening America to the excitement of technology and its surpassing importance in bettering the lot of mankind.'' Dean has also received the International John W. Hyatt Service to Mankind Award for service to humankind through the use of plastics. I have known Dean for over a decade, and I am very proud of the important advances he has made in engineering. He has increased the quality of lives through his engineering feats not just in New Hampshire, but also the United States and the world. He represents the very best in science today: a man of great expertise, capability, and integrity. The Granite State is fortunate to have Dean working in our State. His innovations in engineering are priceless. Both Dean, as well as the other members of the National Academy of Engineering, are national treasures. I congratulate Dean Kamen on this distinguished honor; it could not have been bestowed on a more deserving individual.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise today to congratulate the Town of Rye, NH, for receiving the 1997 Walter B. Jones Memorial and National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration Excellence Awards for Coastal and Ocean Resource Management. The town of Rye received the awards for the category of excellence in local government, which recognizes local communities that show exemplary leadership, innovation and accomplishment in coastal resource protection and management. Due to the gradual cut-off from the daily tidal water around the town of Rye, a number of wildlife habitats and marsh lands have steadily decreased. By thier own initative, The town of Rye's Conservation Commission took immediate action and undertook an innovate project to restore a majority of its historic salt marsh areas. Since 1993, Rye has undertaken numerous salt marsh restoration projects and is well on its way to restoring the majority of its historic slat marsh areas. Rye has also worked cooperatively with U.S. Fish and Wildlife, splitting costs with the town to replace culverts and restore the tidal flow to approximately 18 acres of salt marsh. To date, the town of Rye has jointly funded four restoration projects affecting 240 acres of salt marsh. Utilizing such agencies as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife, the Environmental Protection Agency, the New Hampshire Estuaries Project, as well as private businesses, the town of Rye continues to improve and enhance the salt marsh areas. Mr. President, as a member of the Environmental Public Works Committee, I am very concerned with every aspect of our environment. The salt marshes in Rye, NH, are a very important part to the overall habitat of the area and I am very pleased to know many other citizens of the Granite State share my concerns for the environment. But more importantly, I commend the action taken by the town of Rye for making the necessary changes to improve the salt marshes. It is this type of initiative that exemplifies how local government and its citizens can better and more efficiently manage their environment than the Federal Government. The town of Rye has shown dedication and is a model as well as inspiration to other towns in New Hampshire and the country. Congratulations and appreciation are in order to the many people who have selfishly worked to save the historic salt marshes. No town is more deserving to receive the Excellence in Local Government Award than Rye, NH.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise today to honor Mayor Eileen Foley, a remarkable and dedicated leader from Portsmouth, NH. Mayor Foley, Portsmouth's favorite daughter, has announced her retirement from the office of mayor after serving 10 consecutive years. She has demonstrated tremendous leadership and guidance to a countless number of people. A special era of service and dedication has come to an end with Mayor Foley's retirement. Mayor Foley, 79, has served the city in the top seat at various times for a total of more than 16 years. Her long history of city service began as a teenager, when she and her sisters helped their mother, Mary Carey Foley, in her mayoral campaign. The elder Foley served as the city's first woman mayor between 1945-47. Eileen Foley continued the tradition by submersing herself in a career of dedicated public service, first in the Women's Army Corps in 1944 and later as State senator, Portsmouth City Counselor and School Board member. As mayor, she has served many terms, between 1968-72, again in 1984-85, and then again in 1988 until the present. Mayor Foley, in her long years of public service, became identified with the very city of Portsmouth in the minds of local constituents, as well as government officials and business people far and wide. She has always acted as a kind of concerned and caring mother and goodwill ambassador, speaking at clambakes and ribbon cuttings, lending her support to civic, cultural, veterans, and charitable organizations, and representing the city around the State and at such distant locations as Carrickfergus in Northern Ireland and Nichinon in Japan. Over the years, Mayor Foley has been honored by many, including being named as 1 of the 10 most powerful women in the State by a statewide business magazine, as well as being honored with a lifetime achievement award by the Portsmouth Rotary. Mayor Foley will continue to serve on appointed boards, be visible around town, and take an active interest in city affairs, for it is hard to leave the public eye after earning the respect and admiration of so many. Certain people are made to serve the public. Mayor Foley is such a person, epitomizing the term public servant. Her service to the town of Portsmouth, NH, its people and to the State of New Hampshire is nothing short of appreciative and commendable. Mr. President, as a public servant myself I understand the amount of time, heart, and dedication required each and every day. Mayor Foley has served the public, not out of force, but out of love and compassion for the people, demonstrating immense heart and dedication. Mayor Foley will be missed as her public legacy comes to an end.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, on behalf of Senator Gregg and myself, I submit an amendment. Mr. President, this is a very simple and straightforward amendment which has been drafted to address a very unique situation concerning State tax liability for persons performing services at the Portsmouth, New Hampshire Naval Shipyard. This shipyard is a Federal facility located on a group of small islands in the inner Portsmouth Harbor and Piscataqua River, which forms the border between the States of New Hampshire and Maine. The amendment we are offering will make pay and compensation of Portsmouth Naval Shipyard employees subject only to the State taxation laws of the State in which the employees reside. On July 28, 1997, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1953, a bill which likewise makes State taxing authority subject to an employee's State of residence with respect to three other Federal facilities located on State borders. Again, Mr. President, these are very unique situations where we have a serious issue of tax fairness of Federal employees at these particular Federal facilities on the border between States. It is appropriate for the Congress, in these instances, to use its power to clarify taxing authority especially where the States involved have been unable to work out an equitable tax reciprocity agreement on their own. Moreover, I would note that in this instance, there is disagreement between New Hampshire and Maine on whether the border location of the shipyard puts it geographically in New Hampshire or Maine. This is all the more reason for Congress to seek to help these Federal employees caught in the middle of a border dispute. As a Member of the Senate Committee on Governmental Affairs, I look forward to working with Chairman Thompson and my other colleagues on the committee in the next few weeks to schedule action on both the House bill and the amendment Senator Gregg and I are offering to it today. Finally, Mr. President, I would note that when H.R. 1953 passed the House a few weeks back, some of my colleagues there noted that it took nearly 10 years to correct the tax inequity for the Federal employees at the three Federal facilities on State borders referenced in that bill. Let me say that I first took up the unfair tax situation faced by my New Hampshire constituents at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard nearly 10 years ago, and introduced legislation in the years that followed which, unfortunately, never came to pass. However, my colleagues have told me a congressional hearing might be the best way to make our case. That is why I look forward to Senate consideration of this amendment in committee. When the facts are carefully reviewed, I think my colleagues will realize that my constituents have waited too long already for resolution of the unfair tax burden they face by virtue of their employment at this particular Federal facility. My amendment with Senator Gregg to H.R. 1953 gives the Congress another opportunity to address this situation, so it is my hope we can now rectify this situation without further delay.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to Creative Optics, Inc. in Bedford, NH, for receiving the Small Business Innovation Research [SBIR] Model of Excellence Tibbetts Award. Creative Optics is a 15-year-old, innovative think tank that develops ideas and solutions to complex problems facing the Department of Defense community. Companies were selected based on the economic impact of their technological innovations and their overall business achievements. It is a competitive three-phase program that provides qualified small businesses with opportunities to propose innovative ideas to the Federal Government. These proposals are a response to solicitations published by the 10 Federal agencies on their upcoming research and development needs. There is a mutual benefit in that the Government secures the needed research, while the small business retains rights to commercialization. Creative Optics has made, and continues to make, a significant impact at the State and regional level. After relocating to southern New Hampshire in 1991, Creative Optics developed a myriad of relationships with local organizations and business resources. Creative Optics is sharing its hard experience with other small businesses in the region, on the State level as well as the national level. The president of Creative Optics, Dr. John F. Ebersole, and the owner Ingrid Ebersole, John's wife, have provided both technical vision along with an administrative personal touch to the company. Along with the Ebersole's vision and touch are the brilliant, creative minds of the individuals developing new, inventive ideas, allowing Creative Optics to shine. Creative Optics is a unique small business in New Hampshire, providing high-level employment opportunities, economic growth, and an innovated technology developed through SBIR funding. Small businesses are fruitful in research and development, producing more than half the Nation's product innovations. Furthermore, the Federal Government is achieving the highest quality research to meet specific mission needs, as well as expanding the Nation's industrial base. I commend Creative Optics for their outstanding innovations that benefit not only the State of New Hampshire but also the Nation as well. Creative Optics is a worthy candidate for receiving the prestigious Tibbetts Award.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise today to honor Conrad Richard Gagnon, Jr., and Maureen E. Connelly who were named finalists in the second annual Samsung American Legion Scholarship Program. The scholarship program is funded by a $5 million endowment from the Samsung Group, an international company based in South Korea, and is administered by the American Legion, the world's largest veterans organization. Only direct decedents of U.S. wartime veterans are eligible for the scholarships. Conrad and Maureen are among many other outstanding young Americans named as finalists to compete for 1 of 10 college scholarships, each worth $20,000. The students were judged on the basis of their involvement in their school and community, and for their academic achievements. Conrad is a native of Bedford, NH, and is currently in his senior year of high school. He is the son of Conrad and Gisele Gagnon, and has three bothers: Brian, Tim, and Dan. His grandfather, Richard Adalard Gagnon, is a World War Two veteran. Conrad has distinguished himself by achieving excellent grades, as well as being involved in numerous and varied activities. He is an associate editor of his school year book, a member of his school's math team, and French club. He has been awarded the Boy Scouts Order of the Arrow, and will travel to California and Japan this summer on the Sony Student Abroad scholarship. Conrad also participates in community service activities such as peer tutoring, food drives, and was involved in organizing an effort to place over 100 of his peers in volunteer positions. He would like to study engineering and law in college. Maureen is a resident of Greenland, NH. She attends Portsmouth High School. She is the daughter of Mark and Marian Connelly, and she has a sister Carolyn, and a brother Steven. Her grandfather, Quentin Dante Halstead, served on active duty in World War Two, the Korean war, and the Vietnam war. Maureen has earned outstanding grades in honors and advance placement classes. She is also very active on her school's field hockey team and track team. In addition she is a member of student government, serving in the capacity of treasurer, as well as a member of the school newspaper staff. Maureen volunteers her time to teach young children field hockey and at a local hospital, she also maintains a job as a lifeguard. She is a senior in high school and would like to be a doctor. Young men and women such as Conrad and Maureen are a valuable asset to New Hampshire and the future of the United States. I congratulate them on all their hard work and wish them success in their future endeavors.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise today in memory of Chad Warren, a young, thoughtful and motivated man who recently passed away. Chad was only 25 years old when he unfortunately lost his life, only months away from his 26th birthday. He is an example to us all because of his sheer dedication to his job and his unconditional love for his family. Working at the Goodhue Hawkins Navy Yard for the past six years, Chad became an invaluable employee and was also known as a friend to all. Hard working and dedicated are only mere words to epitomize Chad as a person. He started out as a boat washer and dockboy and soon progressed to a boat rigger and forklift operator He then achieved certification as a boat mechanic. Mr. President, I admire Chad not only for his dedication but also for the heart he put into his service at the Navy Yard. Prior to his employment, Chad was in Steve Durgan's Junior High Geography and U.S. History classes at Kingswood Regional Junior/Senior High School. Steve, a close personal friend of mine, described Chad as quiet, shy and thoughtful. At such a young age, Chad was surrounded by many close, loving people. Besides his mother, Linda Morrill of Wolfeboro, New Hampshire, and his father, Paul Warren of Ashburnham, Massachusetts, Chad leaves his dear wife Sherri Warren and their young beloved children Corbin, 5 years old, Shane, 8 years old, and Amber, 12 years old. Chad was blessed to have these valuable people in his life. Mr. President, to lose any life is a sad event. But to lose a young life, one full of energy, life, hopes and dreams is a tragedy. My heart and prayers go out to Chad's family and especially his wife, Sherri, and their children, Corbin, Shane, and Amber. The loss of a husband and father is irreplaceable but Chad's memory will always live on in those who loved him.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise today to honor the memory of a bright, young police officer wrongfully killed while on duty. Officer Jeremy Charron, 24, of Concord, New Hampshire, was gunned down while checking on a report of a suspicious car during the early morning hours of August 24th. Officer Charron embodied all that is honorable about our state's law enforcement professionals. His selfless devotion to protecting the lives of innocent New Hampshire citizens enabled him to perform the heroic acts for which he will always be remembered. It is not often that we see such strength, valor, and courage in a person. Jeremy Charron was unique and his family can be proud of his bravery in this tragedy. Jeremy Charron was an All-American kid, a high school athlete, a natural leader, president of his senior class at Hillsborough-Deering High School, a U.S. Marine and a police officer. Fulfilling his life long dream, Charron became a police officer for the town of Epsom, New Hampshire, in November, after completing the full-time police academy training and becoming certified as a full-time officer July 11. Charron also served in the U.S. Marine Corps from July 1992 to June 1996, when he received an honorable discharge. Born to Robert and Frances Charron, Jeremy leaves brothers Rob, 28, and Andrew, 27, and sisters, Amanda, 21, and Bethany, 12, and his finance, April LaRochelle. Mr. President, the family of Jeremy Charron has suffered a great loss. The people of New Hampshire again have lost another fine officer. It is a time for faith and a time for healing. My prayers and sympathy go out to the families and friends of Officer Charron.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise today to honor the memories of two brave New Hampshire State Troopers killed in the line of duty. Leslie Lord, 45, of Pittsburg and Scott E. Phillips, 32, of Colebrook both bravely gave their lives trying to protect others and stop a man wielding an automatic rifle throughout the town of Colebrook, New Hampshire on August 19th. Vickie Bunnell, a Colebrook District Court judge, and Dennis Joos, editor of the Sentinel newspaper, were also innocent victims in the shooting spree. Leslie Lord was a 1974 graduate of Pittsburg High School and the next year graduated in the 25th class at the New Hampshire Police Academy. Later, Lord became the chief of police in his hometown, until January 16, 1987, when he resigned to become a state highway enforcement officer. After working as a state highway truck inspector, Lord became a state trooper for the Granite state in 1996. Lord, who was not only a husband to Beverly, was also a father to two teenage boys, Cory and Shawn. Scott Phillips was a 1984 graduate of White Mountain Regional High School in Whitefield and also a veteran of the U.S. Army. He served with the military police, including a tour of duty in Panama. In 1990, as a member of the 90th class at the State Police Academy, Phillips graduated an impressive 14th in a class of 38. Phillips lived in Colebrook with his dear wife, Christine, their young son, Keenan, 2\1/2\, and their 1-year-old daughter, Clancy. Both Troopers Lord and Phillips were known as dedicated, hardworking, and well-liked individuals by members of their respective communities. Mr. President, the state of New Hampshire as well as the families of these fine state troopers have suffered a tremendous loss. I would like to commend the efforts of both men, for their actions were nothing short of heroic. I would also like to extend to the families of not only Lord and Phillips, but also of Vickie Bunnell and Dennis Joos, my deepest heartfelt sorrow and I pray that God watches over them. The memories of Leslie Lord and Scott E. Phillips will live on in all of the lives they have touched, for they were two remarkable and beloved individuals.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise today to honor Conrad Richard Gagnon, Jr. and Maureen E. Connelly who were named finalists in the second annual Samsung American Legion Scholarship Program. The scholarship program is funded by a $5 million endowment from the Samsung Group, an international company based in South Korea, and is administered by the American Legion, the world's largest veterans organization. Only direct decedents of U.S. wartime veterans are eligible for the scholarships. Conrad and Maureen are among many other outstanding young Americans named as finalists to compete for one of ten college scholarships, each worth $20,000. The students were judged on the basis of their involvement in their school and community, and for their academic achievements. Conrad is a native of Bedford, New Hampshire and is currently in his senior year of high school. He is the son of Conrad and Gisele Gagnon, and has three bothers: Brian, Tim and Dan. His grandfather, Richard Adalard Gagnon, is a World War Two veteran. Conrad has distinguished himself by achieving excellent grades, as well as being involved in numerous and varied actives. He is an associate editor of his school year book, a member of his school's math team, and French club. He has been awarded the Boy Scouts Order of the Arrow, and will travel to California and Japan this summer on the Sony Student Abroad scholarship. Conrad also participates in community service activities such as peer tutoring, food drives, and was involved in organizing an effort to place over one hundred of his peers in volunteer positions. He would like to study engineering and law in college. Maureen is a resident of Greenland, New Hampshire. She attends Portsmouth High School. She is the daughter of Mark and Marian Connelly, and she has a sister Carolyn and a brother Steven. Her grandfather, Quentin Dante Halstead, served on active duty in World War Two, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Maureen has earned outstanding grades in honors and advance placement classes. She is also very active on her school's field hockey team and track team. In addition she is a member of student government, serving in the capacity of treasure, as well as a member of the school newspaper staff. Maureen volunteers her time to teach young children field hockey, and she maintains a job as a lifeguard. She is a senior in high school and would like to be a doctor. Young men and women such as Conrad and Maureen are a valuable asset to New Hampshire and the future of the United States. I congratulate them on all their hard work and wish them success in their future endeavors.

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire

Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise today to honor Susan M. Woodward, the New Hampshire winner of the Sallie Mae First Class Teacher's Award, which recognizes the Nation's outstanding elementary and secondary school teachers in their first year of teaching. Susan was selected for her outstanding dedication to teaching and her love for her students in her first year at Mastricola Middle School in Merrimack, NH. Ms. Woodward received her bachelor of arts degree from Rivier College in Nashua, NH, in 1995. She graduated summa cum laude and was valedictorian of her class. Ms. Woodward joined the staff of the Merrimack School District as a substitute, and is currently employed as a full-time French teacher at Mastricola Middle School. Dedicated, creative, hard-working and inspirational are all words which describe Ms. Woodward. A perfectionist by nature, Susan uses a variety of instructional techniques, auditory and visual, so her students are always active participants in their learning. She makes her classes fun, employing a marvelous sense of humor, fairness and compassion. Ms. Woodward believes every student has potential, every student is special, and makes every effort to be available for her students. Active inside and outside the classroom, Ms. Woodward is a good role model for her students. Whether staying after school helping her students or dancing at a school dance, Ms. Woodward is always available for advice and support. The mark of a great teacher is one who cares, unconditionally, about the success and well-being of students. Mr. President, as a former teacher myself, I understand the challenges, responsibilities and dedication involved with teaching. I admire and respect Ms. Woodward for establishing herself as an irreplaceable teacher in the school district of Merrimack. Most importantly, she is helping to shape the lives of the young students who are the future of New Hampshire and the country. I am very honored to have Ms. Woodward as a teacher in the Granite State. The Sallie Mae Award has indeed gone to a first-class teacher.