A resolution commending the National Hockey League Tampa Bay Lightning for winning the 2004 Stanley Cup Championship.

Mr. President, today I stand to submit a resolution focused on the development of self-government in Kosovo. I am pleased that Senators Voinovich, Allen, Smith, and Biden have joined me in co- sponsoring this legislation.

I believe that Kosovo's future lies in building democracy, respecting human rights, and fostering ethnic reconciliation. I am hopeful that the United States will remain involved in Kosovo until it is self- sustaining. I also believe that a successful conclusion to Kosovo's status is crucial to Balkan reintegration into Europe and into Euro- Atlanta institutions.

It has been 5 years since the signing of the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244 that marked the end of a brutal conflict in Kosovo. Much progress has been made, but it is critical to focus on the work at hand: developing political processes that are inclusive and protect human rights, especially those of minorities. My resolution focuses on the process of getting Kosovo to achieve self-governance before its future status is determined.

The United States Senate must continue to support the efforts of UNMIK (the United Nations Mission in Kosovo) and KFOR (the NATO-led international security forces in Kosovo), and promote steps to foster the development of the Kosovo economy through strengthened cooperation with the South Central Europe region and Euro-Atlantic institutions. I was pleased to co-sponsor a resolution submitted by my colleague, Senator Voinovich, that condemned the ethnic violence that erupted in Kosovo last March, and that called upon the people of Kosovo to cooperate with UNMIK, KFOR and the Kosovo Police to identify and bring to justice the perpetrators of the violence.

I strongly support the Administration's new policy initiative for Kosovo, which was launched last November. It foresees periodic review of progress by Kosovo's autonomous institutions of self-government on establishing rule of law, multi-ethnic democracy, market economic reform, and stable relations with neighbors. My resolution calls upon the leaders of the Provisional Institutions of Self-Governance in Kosovo, and upon the leaders of the political parties and communities of Kosovo, to renew their efforts in cooperation with UNMIK, KFOR, and the international community to achieve political and economic stability. A critical step in Kosovo's development is a stable relationship with Belgrade. I urge both sides to engage in direct dialogue.

I believe that it is critical for the U.S. to continue to play a central role in Kosovo and provide strong assistance in achieving the benchmarks, and at an appropriate time, in determining a process leading to final status. I urge my colleagues to lend their support to U.S. policy in the Balkans and ask their support for this resolution.

Madam President, Senator Graham of Florida and myself congratulate the Tampa Bay Lightning for winning the 2004 National Hockey League Stanley Cup Championship.

In only its 12th year as a team, the Tampa Bay Lightning has reached the pinnacle of hockey for the first time in its existence. The past 12 years have been rather difficult for the team and it has undergone turbulent changes. In the history of the Lightning, not only have there been three ownership groups, but there have also been five coaches and four general managers. To top it all off, just 3 years ago the team finished last in the league.

However, due to their determination, resilience, and tenacity the Lightning has accomplished what National Hockey League teams all over the country strive to achieve. While all National Hockey League teams start the season with the Lord Stanley's Cup in mind, only one gets the privilege of gaining such an honor.

As hockey fans looked at this year's National Hockey League Season, it was obvious that the Lightning was the underdog and few people considered the team a contender because of the numerous changes and setbacks. However, the Lightning believed in itself and was full of determination. A wise person once said: Anything the mind can perceive, and the heart can believe, one can achieve. The Lightning has taken this to heart, and it makes me proud to say that Lightning has struck in the Tampa Bay Area.

Under the leadership of head coach John Tortorella, who has just become only the third American-born coach to ever win the Stanley Cup, the Lightning deserves to be commended. Throughout the season, all of the players, coaches, managers, and fans have taught the Nation a valuable lesson, in any equation for success, there are three factors: determination, drive, and tenacity. I offer congratulations to all members of the Tampa Bay Lightning, their families, and their fans throughout the State of Florida.

Madam President, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to the immediate consideration of S. Res. 383 introduced earlier today by Senators Nelson of Florida and Graham of Florida.

I ask unanimous consent that the resolution and preamble be agreed to en bloc, the motion to reconsider be laid upon the table, with no intervening action or debate, and that any statements related to the resolution be printed in the Record.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to the immediate consideration of S. Res. 480, which was introduced by Senator Frist earlier today.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the resolution be agreed to, the motion to reconsider be laid upon the table, and that any statements relating to the resolution be printed in the Record.

Mr. President, I suggest the absence of a quorum.

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