Authorizing the use of the Capitol Grounds for the D.C. Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run.

Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res. 389) authorizing the use of the Capitol Grounds for the D.C. Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run.

Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

House Concurrent Resolution 389 authorizes the use of the Capitol grounds for the 19th Annual Law Enforcement Torch Run which benefits the District of Columbia Special Olympics. The torch will cross the Capitol grounds on June 4, 2004.

For 31 years, Special Olympics D.C. has provided sports training for citizens with developmental disabilities. Athletic competition provides athletes with increased confidence and self-esteem and allows them to demonstrate courage and experience the joy of sport. There are now more than 2,000 Special Olympics athletes in the District of Columbia. This event is the largest public awareness campaign for the Special Olympics. Last year over 85,000 law enforcement officers from 35 countries participated in the torch run. It is my hope that this trend will continue. The sponsors of the event work with the Architect of the Capitol and the United States Capitol Police to comply with all applicable regulations relating to the use of the Capitol grounds.

I encourage my colleagues to join the law enforcement community in supporting the Special Olympics and join me in supporting this resolution.

Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I urge the adoption of the concurrent resolution.

Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, the District of Columbia Special Olympics is the premier event in the region that highlights the athletic accomplishments of disabled children and young adults. Thanks to the tenacity of Eunice Kennedy Shriver and her family, thousands of special Olympians see their self-confidence, self-esteem, and health increase by participating in these games.

The goal of the games is to help bring mentally disabled individuals into the larger society under conditions where they are accepted and respected. Confidence and self-esteem are the building blocks for these Olympic games. Better health, coordination, and lasting friendships are the results of participation.

Law enforcement officers, who are part of the extensive volunteer network that supports the games, carry the Olympic torch across the Capitol Grounds through the District of Columbia to Gallaudet University.

These games are a wonderful expression of inclusiveness and a confirmation of individual contribution. I enthusiastically support this resolution and the very worthwhile endeavor of the Special Olympics.

I urge support for H. Con. Res. 389.

Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

Mr. Speaker, this event needs little introduction. 2004 marks the 37th anniversary of the D.C. Special Olympics. The torch relay event is a traditional part of the opening ceremonies for the Special Olympics which take place at Gallaudet University in the District of Columbia. Each year approximately 2,500 Special Olympians compete in over a dozen events and more than 1 million children and adults with special needs participate in Special Olympic worldwide programs. The event is supported by literally thousands of volunteers from the District and the region.

The goal of the games is to help bring mentally challenged individuals into the larger society under conditions whereby they are accepted and respected. Confidence and self-esteem are the building blocks for these Olympic games. I enthusiastically support this resolution and the very worthwhile endeavor of the Special Olympics. I urge support for H. Con. Res. 389.

Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to the immediate consideration of H. Con. Res. 389, which is at the desk.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the concurrent resolution be agreed to, and the motion to reconsider be laid upon the table, with no intervening action or debate.

Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on H. Con. Res. 389.