Floor Statements

Mr. President, over the last several months, this body has been focused on issues pertaining to our economy, such as the ailing jobs market and our debt and deficits. That is as it should be. However, while these important issues have commanded most of our attention here in the United States Senate, that is not to say that other matters and conflicts have suddenly taken a back seat to them. Even as we vigorously debate our economic future, home-state and regional issues continue to command our attention. It is one of those regional issues that brings me to the floor today.

Two months ago, a three judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit handed down a final decision that could have far reaching negative impacts on public and private forests, and the communities that rely on them, throughout the United States. In the case of Northwest Environmental Defense Center v. Brown, the Court ruled that logging road runoff when managed with a system of ditches and culverts and deposited into rivers and streams qualifies under the Clean Water Act as point source pollution. This means that storm water when mixed with dirt and rocks will now be subject to some of the most stringent environmental protection laws in the United States. America's Federal forests are already heavily litigated, but with one fell swoop, this decision threw out over 35 years of precedent, opening the door for even more litigation on Federal forest lands, and subjecting private and state forest lands to the same specter.

There was a time when forest jobs supported millions of Americans and their communities. But a lot has changed since then. Endless litigation, cheap imports, disease and a general shift in Federal forest management policy have drastically changed the landscape for forest jobs and the families and communities that rely on them. Working on the forests used to make up a considerable amount of the tax base in many rural communities, particularly in my State of Idaho. However, that has shrunk dramatically in recent decades.

Forest communities that were once prosperous now find themselves in a state of perpetual economic jeopardy, with young people searching for employment elsewhere and tax bases that can barely cover the cost of basic public services. This has become so dire that in 2000, Congress had to pass legislation to provide funding to rural communities with Federal public lands to make up for lost revenues from timber harvests on those lands.

Given all of this, I am disappointed that another impediment is being added to the economic survival of our forest communities.

This decision will impact both public and private forests. In the case of Federal forests, we have millions upon millions of acres that are in need of active management and restoration. Our Federal forests have suffered from under management, disease, wild fires and other factors, and to address these problems, the U.S. Forest Service needs to be able to get to work on much needed fuels reduction, thinning and other forest health projects. But litigation has made that very difficult, and this decision is only going to make it worse.

Then, there are private forests. The people who own, manage and work on these private forests need roads to have access to them. But, this judicially-mandated permit requirement will inevitably lead to increased costs for businesses that are already operating on the margins. Furthermore, this decision will impose the Federal Government into the management of private lands as these permits, even if issued by a State agency, will be subject to Environmental Protection Agency oversight under the Federal Clean Water Act, as well as citizen suits that are intended to further reduce timber harvests.

We need to do something about this unfortunate and unwise decision out of the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. As such, I am introducing legislation along with my friends Senator Wyden, Senator Risch and Senator Begich to overturn it. This legislation is entitled the Silviculture Regulatory Consistency Act of 2011. Our forests and the communities that they have long supported are already in considerable jeopardy, and we need to do everything in our power to help these rural communities. Passing this legislation is only one step in that process, but it is a very necessary one.

I hope that the Senate can pass this bipartisan legislation as soon as possible.

Mr. President today I wish to honor the life of Paul Zatica, a husband, father, community leader, businessman and exemplary Idahoan.

At the core of Paul Zatica's accomplishments were his dedication to family, strong sense of community and his ability to connect with his customers. After serving in the U.S. Navy from 1946 to 1948, graduating from Boise Jr. College and the University of Denver and marrying his wife of nearly 63 years, Erma Jean, Paul Zatica opened Paul's market in Homedale, ID, in December of 1955. He grew the business into eight stores throughout southwestern Idaho. Paul's Market has been credited with providing jobs and scholarships to numerous students. Paul also devoted decades of service on the Homedale City Council, the Homedale School Board and Owyhee County Rodeo Board and helped form the Homedale Development Company. Paul has been recognized for his commendable skills through honors, such as his selection as Idaho Retailer of the Year in 1988 and grand marshal for the 2006 Owyhee County Fair and Rodeo Parade.

I join Paul's wife; four children, Stan, Paulette, Bryan and Steve; eight grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; other family members; many friends; the Homedale community; and the numerous people he inspired in mourning his loss and expressing gratitude for his contribution. Paul Zatica will be missed, and his legacy of devotion to his family and community will not be forgotten.

Mr. President, I rise today to honor one of my longtime staff members, who has decided for the second time to leave my employ. Dorothy Boger's service as part of my staff started on the first day I became a Member of Congress; she was the veteran staffer, the only one with any Hill experience, on my first day in office in 1993. While her job title was scheduler,

she did so much more. She came to my office with several years of experience working for her home State Congressman, the Honorable Clyde C. Holloway of Louisiana, and the training that she received there served me very well over the next 18 years. On that first day, my office was one of the few that had staplers, copy paper, and wastepaper baskets--all because Dorothy already knew what to expect coming into a brand-new office. During my 6 years in the U.S. House of Representatives, Dorothy oversaw my office operation and my schedule; she kept us running, paid attention to the details and made sure that everyone from Idaho got a dose of Southern charm. We often say that she is from southern Idaho, way southern Idaho.

When I was elected to the Senate in 1998, Dorothy came with me to start up another office on the other side of the Hill. But, by that time, her family priorities had shifted and after a few months, she realized that she needed to be home with her young son and soon after she had another on the way. It was hard to say good-bye the first time, and it was terrific when an opportunity presented itself that was perfect to bring her back to the office. She has contributed in the second go-round in the communications field, and it is difficult to recognize that she means it this time when she says she is retiring.

Dorothy's priorities have always been very clear. She and her husband Bill have a young family, and she has been able to arrange her schedule to be with them as much as possible. But this year has been very trying for her as she has faced the loss of her beloved mother and eldest sister. She says that it has brought those priorities into even sharper focus, and I cannot argue with her desire to spend time at home, have the opportunity to visit family who live far away and enjoy more freedom to accomplish all that makes her most happy.

We will miss her deeply, and for far more reasons than the delicious double chocolate Ghirardelli brownies that she frequently brings to the office to share. Her positive spirit and support have left an indelible mark, and I wish her all the best.

Madam President, my colleagues Senators Jim Risch, Amy Klobuchar and Al Franken join me today in honoring the life of Harmon Clayton Killebrew. We join with his family and friends in mourning his passing and paying tribute to his inspirational life.

Harmon Killebrew began his exemplary athletic career in Idaho. He was born June 29, 1936, in Payette, ID, where he earned multiple awards as an athlete in baseball, basketball and football at Payette High School. Harmon explained his childhood in Idaho in a way that fellow Idahoans could clearly understand. He often shared this quote from his childhood. ``My father used to play with my brother and me in the yard. Mother would come out and say, `You're tearing up the grass'; `We're not raising grass,' Dad would reply. We're raising boys.' '' We understand Harmon often credited then-U.S. Senator from Idaho, Herman Welker, for recommending to then-Washington Senators owners, the Griffith family, that their team sign Killebrew, and at age 17, Killebrew signed his first professional baseball contract with the Washington Senators.

He went on to play his first seven seasons here in Washington, DC, before moving with the franchise to Minnesota in 1961, when it would be renamed the Minnesota Twins. Killebrew played 14 seasons in Minnesota, making the All-Star team in 10 of those seasons. He also competed in the 1965 World Series, where his Twins would lose to the Los Angeles Dodgers in seven games. Killebrew completed his professional baseball career in 1975, playing one season with the Kansas City Royals.

His remarkable skills earned him due recognition. He was awarded the American League Most Valuable Player Award in 1969, when he led the league in both home runs and runs batted in. Killebrew's No. 3 uniform was retired by the Minnesota Twins, and he was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1984. His accomplishment of 573 career home runs currently ranks 11th on the All-Time baseball list.

Killebrew's legacy extends far beyond the baseball field. He remained active in Idaho following his retirement, including taking the lead on many important charitable efforts. In 1977, Killebrew and former Idaho Representative Ralph Harding founded the Danny Thompson Memorial Golf Tournament, in honor of Killebrew's former Minnesota Twins teammate, who died from leukemia in 1976. Since then, this annual tournament, played in Sun Valley, ID, has raised more than $11 million, which has been leveraged with matching grants to over $25 million, for leukemia and cancer research. Each year, these proceeds are divided equally between St. Luke's Mountain States Tumor Institute in Boise, Idaho and the University of Minnesota Cancer Research Center.

Harmon Killebrew's talent and hard work have inspired countless young athletes, and he leaves behind a legacy of encouraging skill and dedicated service. We extend our condolences and prayers to his family, friends and loved ones and deep gratitude for his compassion, service and leadership.

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

Mr. President, I yield back all time.

I ask for the yeas and nays.

Mr. President, I rise today to recognize and honor Peter Fischer, who is retiring from Senate service. Peter has been an essential member of my staff for more than a decade, and he currently serves as chief of staff for my Washington, DC, office. I cannot thank him enough for his dedicated counsel and friendship. Time and time again, he has provided helpful insight and contagious optimism that have been instrumental in overcoming even the most difficult challenges.

I have been extremely blessed to have Peter as part of my team through multiple, valuable roles. He joined my 1998 Senate campaign as campaign finance director following his service as an economic development specialist with Idaho's department of commerce and industry. Then, in January of 1999, I was fortunate to have Peter join my congressional staff as State director for economic development. He utilized his economic development experience and profound understanding of the needs of Idaho communities to help communities navigate the Federal bureaucracy and identify partnership opportunities. He continued this outstanding advocacy after he moved to Washington, DC, nearly 2 years later, to become legislative director prior to becoming my Washington, DC, chief of staff.

Peter has a remarkable ``can-do'' spirit and resourcefulness, and he has contributed greatly to advancing countless legislative and policy priorities for Idaho. For example, his commitment to the Owyhee Initiative played a major role in the successful passage of the authorizing legislation and continued implementation efforts. As a hunter, fisher and sportsman, Peter also provided valuable perspective in enactment of electronic duck stamp legislation. He has also been very active in representing me in countless ways on Capitol Hill. For example, he is a senior Stennis fellow, serves on the Steering Committee for the Bipartisan Chiefs of Staff organization, is the Republican chair of the bipartisan Foreign Policy Study Group,has attended numerous chiefs of staff retreats and manages my Washington campaign activities during his free time.

A 1971 graduate of the University of California--Santa Barbara with a degree in history, Peter has a fascinating

personal and professional life that has taken him across the country and around the world. His myriad of experiences in the private sector and across the globe has made him such an innovative economic development expert and a valued contributor to me. Peter is kind and courteous to a fault. We would be hard pressed to find anyone who has met him who doesn't like him. He has a great capacity to put people at ease, and people just generally like to be around him, as evidenced by his multitude of friends and acquaintances. It is probably because the best friendship qualities run deep in Peter: He is loyal and can be tough when needs be, but he is also a cheerful encourager.

Peter has been a great asset to me, my staff and the Senate throughout his service to Idaho and the Nation, and I will miss him greatly. However, I wish my friend and his wife Kris great happiness throughout his retirement. I am hopeful that retirement will provide them more time to spend with their family, including their two children Katy and Paul, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, and three grandchildren. Peter's retirement is a well-deserved respite for his years of hard work for Idahoans and our country. Thank you, Peter, for your great service and extraordinary friendship.

Madam President, today I join my colleague Senator Jim Risch as well as our colleague from the U.S. House of Representatives, Congressman Mike Simpson, to recognize and pay tribute to the exceptional leadership and dedication of a great Idaho public servant, Mr. Tom Courtney, city manager of Twin Falls, ID. Tom has served the citizens of Twin Falls with distinction for almost 34 years. Initially hired as assistant city manager in 1977, he was promoted to city manager in 1980 where he continues to serve until his upcoming retirement on March 31, 2011. During Tom's tenure, the city saw tremendous growth and expansion as it transited from a predominantly agriculture-based economy to a manufacturing-based economy. Foreseeing these changes, Tom was instrumental in restructuring city government roles and functions to better serve the individual and the greater good of the community. Originally from California, Tom received his master's and bachelor degree from Utah State University and briefly worked for the city of Tracey, CA, and Stockton, CA, before coming to Idaho.

Tom's management and leadership style closely reflects the motto of the city of Twin Falls: ``People serving People.'' Tom has proven his leadership through his philosophy and actions. As a 40-year member of the International City/County Managers Association he has mentored many young leaders. Tom embodies the philosophy of servant leadership: Truly effective leaders go one step further and focus on service to those in their own organization, ensuring they are prepared, confident and empowered to reach their goals. These leaders create caring communities characterized by collaboration, trust and teamwork. Through his leadership, the city of Twin Falls has been managed with fiscal responsibility and an unwavering sense of ethics and integrity.

Tom's commitment to the city should not be overshadowed by his love and dedication to his wife Mary and three children, Mike, Amy and Ryan, and six grandchildren, Mathew, Courtney, Hailey, Jack, Nathan and Quinn. While very much engaged in his family's lives and activities, Tom's retirement will give Mary and him more opportunities to be full- time grandparents.

It is hard to live in Idaho for so many years and not develop a passion for its beauty and outdoors. True to his commitment to enjoy life to its fullest extent, Tom is an avid backpacker and fisherman. We hope he is planning on many more days of hiking in the Sawtooth Mountains and fishing for steelhead in the Salmon River. Besides a dedicated outdoor enthusiast, Tom is a devoted runner who has completed numerous marathons in Idaho and

throughout the West. His dedication to running provided the opportunity to achieve a personal highlight, serving as a torch bearer for the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympic Winter Games.

It is with great pride and admiration that I, Senator Risch, and Congressman Simpson thank Tom Courtney for his unselfish service and dedication to the city of Twin Falls and the great State of Idaho. We wish him a happy and productive retirement.

Mr. President, today I congratulate the 2010 winners of the Alfred P. Sloan Award for Business Excellence in Workplace Flexibility. This award recognizes employers that have

created a culture of workplace flexibility in policy and practice. The Sloan Awards are presented nationally by the When Work Works initiative, an effort of the Families and Work Institute in partnership with the Institute for a Competitive Workforce, an affiliate of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and the Twiga Foundation Inc. The When Work Works initiative is sponsored by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation.

I draw your attention to the Sloan Award winners because I think these companies are to be commended for their commitment to implementing workplace flexibility practices which benefit both employees and employers. Integrating various workplace flexibility options is instrumental to creating a healthy work environment for today's dynamic and changing workforce.

Businesses in the following 28 communities were eligible for recognition in the 2010 Sloan Awards: Arizona, statewide; Aurora, CO; Boise, ID; Charleston, SC; Chicago, IL; Dallas, TX; Dayton, OH; Durham, NC; Georgia, statewide; Houston, TX; Kentucky, statewide; Long Beach, CA; Long Island, NY; Louisville, KY; Melbourne-Palm Bay, FL; Michigan, statewide; Milwaukee, WI; Morris County, NJ; New Hampshire, statewide; Providence, RI; Richmond, VA; Rochester, MN; Salt Lake City, UT; San Francisco, CA; Seattle, WA; Spokane, WA; Twin Cities, MN; and Winona, MN. In addition, there are several winners recognized in the at-large category. The Chamber of Commerce or other lead organization in each city hosted an interactive business forum to share research on workplace flexibility as an important component of workplace effectiveness. In these same communities, businesses applied for, and winners were selected for, the Sloan Awards through a process that included employees' views as well as employer practices.

I take this opportunity to congratulate the 2010 winners of the Alfred P. Sloan Award for Business Excellence in Workplace Flexibility. These businesses are to be commended for their excellence in providing workplace flexibility.

In Arizona the winners are Arizona Foundation for Legal Services and Education; Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System; Arizona Small Business Association; Barich Inc; BDO USA, LLP; Chandler Chamber of Commerce; Chandler-Gilbert Community College; Clifton Gunderson LLP; Custom Accounting & Tax; Henry & Horne, LLP; Infincom; Intel Corporation; Johnson Bank; Keats, Connelly and Associates, LLC; McGladrey; Microchip Technology, Inc.; Morrison & Associates CPAs; Motorola, Inc.; Omega Legal Systems, Inc.; Orchard Medical Consulting; Point B; Raytheon Missile Systems; Ryan, Inc.; Scottsdale Healthcare; Southwest Institute of Natural Aesthetics; Verde Valley Sanctuary; Western International University--Peoria; Wist Office Products; and WorldatWork.

In Aurora, CO, the winners are Arapahoe/Douglas Works!; Aurora Mental Health Center; E-470 Public Highway Authority; and McGladrey.

In Boise, ID, the winners are American Geotechnics; Givens Pursley LLP; and Idaho Emergency Physicians.

In Charleston, SC, the winners are Booz Allen Hamilton; Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce; Community Management Group; Dixon Hughes PLLC; Go To Team; KFR Services, Inc.; Morris Financial Concepts, Inc; Santee Cooper; Scientific Research Corporation; and South Carolina Aquarium.

In Chicago, IL, the winners are Deloitte, LLP; Draftcb; Ernst & Young; Falkor Group, LLC; Frost, Ruttenberg & Rothblatt, P.C.; KPMG LLP; McGladrey; Microsoft Corporation; Ryan, Inc.; Turner Construction Company--Chicago; and Wellbuilt Equipment Inc.

In Dallas, TX, the winners are Abernethy Media Professionals, Inc.; Aguirre Roden, Inc.; BDO USA, LLP; Big Brothers Big Sisters; Capital One Financial Corporation; Dallas Convention & Visitors Bureau; Deloitte LLP; Ernst & Young LLP; KPMG LLP; Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control; McQueary Henry Bowles Troy LLP; Medical City Dallas Hospital; Ryan, Inc.; and The North Highland Company.

In Dayton, OH, the winners are Azimuth Corporation; Cornerstone Research Group; Deloitte; MacAulay-Brown Inc.; and Sebaly Shillito + Dyer.

In Durham, NC, the winners are Durham Convention and Visitors Bureau; Durham's Partnership for Children; McKinney; Mount Olive College at Research Triangle; and U.S. EPA--Research Triangle Park.

In Georgia the winners are BDO USA, LLP; Booz Allen Hamilton; Deloitte LLP; Gas South, LLC; Hancock Askew & Co., LLP; KPMG LLP; Merrick & Company; Ryan, Inc.; and WellStar Health System.

In Houston, TX, the winners are Access Sciences Corporation; BDO USA, LLP; Binkley & Barfield, Inc.; Brown & Gay Engineers, Inc.; CenterPoint Energy; City of Houston/E.B. Cape Center; ContentActive LLC; Deloitte LLP; El Paso Corporation; Ernst & Young LLP; HBL Architects; Houston- Galveston Area Council; Klotz Associates, Inc.; KPMG LLP; Memorial Hermann Healthcare System; Pannell Kerr Forster of Texas, P.C.; Ryan, Inc.; The Dow Chemical Company; The VIA Group; Traffic Engineers, Inc.; and University of Phoenix Houston Campus.

In Kentucky, the winners are AASHE; Alexander & Company, PSC; Anneken, Huey & Moser PLLC; Benefit Insurance Marketing; Employee Resource Group, LLC; Fowler Measle & Bell PLLC; Kentucky Employers' Mutual Insurance; Lexington Habitat for Humanity; Lexmark International, Inc; Riney Hancock CPAs, PSC; Software Information Systems, LLC; and Sturgill, Turner, Barker & Moloney PLLC.

In Long Beach, CA, the winners are AES Alamitos, LLC; BDO USA, LLP; Bryson Financial Group; Deloitte LLP--Costa Mesa; Deloitte LLP--Los Angeles; KPMG LLP; Long Beach Rescue Mission; and P2S Engineering, Inc.

In Long Island, NY, the winners are BDO USA, LLP; Cerini & Associates LLP; Creative Plan Designs, Ltd.; Deloitte LLP; KPMG LLP; Margolin, Winer, & Evens LLP; SilvermanAcampora LLP; and YES Community Counseling Center.

In Louisville, KY, the winners are A Speaker For You; Big Brother Big Sisters of Kentuckiana; Center for Accessible Living, Inc.; Community Coordinated Child Care (4-C); Deloitte LLP; DMLO; Frankfort Regional Medical Center; Greater Louisville Inc.; JC Malone Associates; KiZAN Technologies LLC; KPMG LLP; Louis T. Roth & Co.; McCauley, Nicolas & Company, LLC; Next Wave Systems LLC; Prestige Health Care; and The CMOOR Group.

In Melbourne-Palm Bay, FL, the winners are Courtyard by Marriott Melbourne-West Palm Bay; Craig Technologies; McGladrey; and Space Coast Business, LLC.

In Michigan the statewide winners are Amerisure Insurance; Atomic Object LLC; BDO USA, LLP; Brown & Brown of Detroit; Educational Data Systems, Inc.; E-IT Professionals Corp.; Ernst & Young Detroit; Ernst & Young Grand Rapids; Farbman Group; Kapnick Insurance Group; KPMG LLP; Menlo Innovations LLC; Michigan Health & Hospital Association; Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration; National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Michigan Chapter; Peckham Inc.; Plex Systems; Public Policy Associates, Inc.; Ryan, Inc.; Service Express, Inc. (SEI); Sphinx Organization; Visteon Corporation; and Warner Norcross & Judd

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent to speak as in morning business for up to 15 minutes, with the time to be shared between myself and Senator Risch.

Mr. President, Senator Risch and I are here today--in fact, I note we are joined on the floor by our former colleague Senator Larry Craig--to honor one of Idaho's greatest statesmen who passed away on Saturday. We rise to honor the distinguished life of Senator James A. McClure, a mentor and a dear friend of mine. As I indicated, Senator Craig is here. Senator Craig is the one who followed Senator McClure into the seat in the Senate. We appreciate him making the effort to get here to also share his concerns and condolences, and frankly, to help honor Senator McClure.

I join Senator McClure's wife Louise and their family and friends and all of Idaho in mourning the passing of Senator McClure and honoring his great legacy. His sound guidance, strong advocacy for Idaho, and his personal encouragement will be missed by all of us, but definitely not forgotten.

Throughout his decades of public service, Jim McClure set a standard for public servants that will endure for generations. Senator McClure dedicated much of his life to honorable service to our Nation. At the age of 18, he joined the U.S. Navy and served honorably in World War II. He then returned to Idaho and attended law school at the University of Idaho, worked as a prosecuting attorney for Payette County, and served in the Idaho State Senate. With 6 years in the U.S. House of Representatives, and 18 years in the U.S. Senate, his exemplary service in the Congress spanned 24 years.

His unfailing good will, respect for others, and his essential Western conservatism helped him to maintain throughout his life the kind of service that is still the best model for how to engage in today's public policy debates. He was recognized by all as a gentleman but a powerful advocate.

Senator McClure's legacy as a Congressman and a Senator is broad, and on many issues, such as energy and natural resource management, his service to Idaho is historic. Jim utilized his service as chairman of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources to advocate for Idaho issues and their ideals. He also helped to guide the Senate through his chairmanship of the Senate Republican Conference from 1981 to 1985. Jim worked diligently to achieve solutions to Idaho and national challenges. He also had a forward-thinking focus on fiscal discipline--one that we could well use in the Senate today--and on energy independence, another critical issue which we continue to battle for today. These are critical issues he helped set the foundation for and, frankly, which his wisdom would have helped to solve.

Jim was a friend and a role model for me and I am sure for many others in Idaho and throughout the Nation. His dedication, kind treatment of others, and skillful proactive and principled approach are long going to endure. He will be sorely missed, but his lifetime of accomplishments will be with the people of Idaho forever.

I offer my sympathy and my love to Louise and to the entire McClure family and to Jim's many friends and associates.

Mr. President, I yield the time to Senator Risch.

Mr. President, Senator Risch's comments prompted me to think of a time when I was first elected to the House of Representatives. Senator McClure had long been counseling and working with me and helping me to see the kind of civility about which Senator Risch talked and also that strong, powerful leadership he brought to issues.

When I was first elected to the House of Representatives--I began thinking as Senator Risch was talking--Jim McClure and Louise invited me to go to dinner. Jim and Louise sat with me for an evening right here in Washington, DC, at a local restaurant. We just talked about politics, about Idaho, about America, about the world, and about how one should lead on issues as they dealt with them in Congress.

I have to tell you, it would take too long to repeat all the lessons I learned that night that were taught to me by Senator McClure as he made that extra step to reach out. I said in my initial remarks he was a mentor and a role model for me. I truly mean that.

I had to add those comments as I thought about that while Senator Risch was talking.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to the consideration of S. Res. 78, relative to the death of Senator James A. McClure.

Mr. President, I note this resolution was submitted earlier today by Senator Risch and myself. In fact, our leadership helped in preparing it and bringing it forward. All 100 Senators are cosponsors of this resolution. I think it a fitting tribute to the respect and honor in which Senator James A. McClure is held by this Senate.

Before I ask unanimous consent to take action on the resolution, I ask if Senator Risch has anything further he wishes to add.

Before I ask unanimous consent, Mr. President, I know Louise and a number of Senator McClure's family and friends are watching. This is a short but meaningful resolution. I believe I should read it in its entirety:

Relative to the death of James Albertus McClure, former

United States Senator for the State of Idaho.

Whereas James A. McClure served in the United States Navy

during World War II;

Whereas James A. McClure served in the state of Idaho as a

prosecuting attorney, a city attorney, a member of the Idaho

state Senate, and as a member of the United States House of

Representatives;

Whereas James A. McClure served the people of the State of

Idaho with distinction for 18 years in the United States

Senate;

Whereas James A. McClure served the Senate as Chairman of

the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources in the Ninety-

seventh through the Ninety-ninth Congresses and Chairman of

the Senate Republican Conference in the Ninety-seventh and

Ninety-eighth Congresses;

Whereas James A. McClure served his caucus as a founding

member and Chairman of the Senate Steering Committee in the

Ninety-fourth through Ninety-sixth and Ninety-ninth through

One Hundredth Congresses; Now therefore be it

Resolved, That the Senate has heard with profound sorrow

and deep regret the announcement of the death of the

Honorable James Albertus McClure, former member of the United

States Senate.

Resolved, That the Secretary of the Senate communicate

these resolutions to the House of Representatives and

transmit an enrolled copy thereof to the family of the

deceased.

Resolved, That when the Senate adjourns today, it stand

adjourned as a further mark of respect to the memory of the

Honorable James Albertus McClure.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the resolution be agreed to; that the preamble be agreed to; and that the motion to reconsider be laid upon the table.

Mr. President, today I wish to pay tribute to the Uni- Capitol Washington Internship Programme, UCWIP. For more than a decade, this international internship program has been enabling outstanding Australian college students to participate in internships throughout the U.S. Congress.

Students participating in the program obtain immeasurable experience through their congressional internships, and participants also have the opportunity to participate in other educational experiences, including U.S. historic site and government agency visits and other learning events. I am proud to be involved in this rewarding and well-rounded exchange program, and I am grateful for the contribution Uni-Capitol Washington Programme interns continue to make in providing valuable viewpoints and helping me serve Idaho constituents.

Gemma Whiting, a UCWIP participant, has joined my staff as an intern this semester. She is studying law/arts at the University of Western Australia, where she is majoring in political science and international relations. Gemma has spent many hours helping keep my schedule and activities running smoothly, and she has been an immense asset. Her commitment and hard work are appreciated, and we are fortunate to have Gemma as a part of the team. I asked her to share her impressions regarding the program and her internship. She said, ``It was an honor to be a part of UCWIP 2011. The opportunity to work in Senator Crapo's office has been the most remarkable experience. I could not have hoped for a more welcoming and affable office. The insight gained through this opportunity is invaluable, adding a higher level of understanding to the intricate workings of the U.S. Congress and the world's foremost democracy. This internship has been a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, adding priceless knowledge to my studies in Law and Political Science. I could not have had a more enjoyable or memorable experience thanks to Senator Crapo's office.''

I also commend the efforts of the program's director and founder, Eric Federing, who has utilized his own Capitol Hill and Australia experiences to provide this important exchange opportunity that benefits both Australian students and congressional offices. His interest and skill have been instrumental in shaping an outstanding program.

I look forward to continuing my association with the Uni-Capitol Washington Internship Programme, which I have been honored to be involved with for 5 years. I commend Gemma Whiting, Eric Federing and the other Uni-Capitol Washington Internship Programme participants and interns for contributing to the 12 successful years of this important program that facilitates the valuable broadening of relationships and understanding between our two countries.

Madam President, I wish to rise to speak about an issue that has been at the center of debate in the northern Rockies for quite some time; that is, the issue of the wolf. The wolf was introduced into the northern Rockies in the 1990s and has flourished. Wolves are now abundant in the region, but, unfortunately, we have not been able to return the management of the wolves to the State, mostly due to litigation and to the inflexibility of the Endangered Species Act. In the meantime, wolf populations are growing at a rate of about 20 percent a year, resulting in substantial harm to our big game herds and domestic livestock.

Whenever I am back in Idaho, I hear from hunters who are angry their favorite hunting spots are no longer rich with elk and deer or from sheep and cattle ranchers who have lost many a head of cattle or sheep due to the wolf predation.

The State of Idaho has done everything it has been asked to do in order to manage wolves, and we continue to be denied that much needed opportunity. As such, it is time for Congress to act.

I intend to make a unanimous consent request in a few moments. First, I yield a few moments to my colleague from Idaho, Senator Risch.

Madam President, I will make this request on behalf of myself, Senator Risch, and the Senators from Utah, Mr. Hatch and Mr. Bennett, and the Senators from Wyoming, Mr. Enzi and Mr. Barrasso.

I ask unanimous consent that the Committee on Environment and Public Works be discharged from further consideration of S. 3919, and that the Senate proceed to its immediate consideration; that the bill be read the third time and passed; that the motions to reconsider be laid upon the table, and that any statements relating to the measure be printed in the Record, as if read.

Madam President, I appreciate the comments of my colleague from Maryland and I appreciate working with him on the committee and I intend to continue working with him. This is an issue of utmost importance in those States in this region of the United States. The longer we wait to resolve this issue, the more difficult it will be. Cooperation is the key in order for us to get this resolution accomplished.

I thank the Chair. I yield the floor.

Madam President, the compromise the Senator from Montana refers to--and he is correct, we have been intensely working on this issue to find a compromise with the administration and the affected States. The compromise he refers to would have required a change in the management of the wolf in Idaho that was unacceptable to the Governor in Idaho and others, including myself and Senator Risch. Although there was a proposal made, it is not correct that it was approved by everybody. I believe, though, we are making progress.

I am willing to work with the Senator from Montana and the Senator from Maryland and others to try not only to find further progress at this late date in this session or next year, if necessary, to try to find our way to that solution. I appreciate the willingness of both Senators to work with us in trying to find that compromise that will work.

Mr. President, I also am honored and very appreciative of the opportunity to join this bipartisan group speaking to the Nation tonight about the fact that we cannot any longer delay dealing with the most significant threat our Nation faces--our debt and our fiscal difficulties.

I was one of the members of the President's Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform, and I had the opportunity over the past year to work

on a bipartisan basis with people on that Commission who took testimony from experts, evaluated the issues, studied the economies of the world, studied the details of what was happening in the American economy, and came forward with a plan.

This plan got 11 of the 18 votes on that Commission. It was required by the President's order to get 14 of the 18 votes in order to force that plan to Congress for a vote. I was disappointed that didn't happen. But let me make a couple of points of clarification. Eleven of the 18 votes represented over 60 percent of the votes of the members on that Commission. That is enough votes to pass any bill in this Senate. It is enough votes to pass any bill in the House of Representatives and to get that bill to the desk of the President. And 14 of 18 would have been over 77 percent of the votes--a margin that has rarely been met in this Congress.

My point in making this clarification is to say that on a bipartisan basis, we were able to come up with a supermajority of support on the Commission for a plan. Now, did that plan contain everything I wanted and leave nothing out I didn't like? No. There were parts of that plan that caused me great heartburn. But that plan did put America on a path toward a balanced budget. It stopped the erosion. In fact, it stopped the explosion of our debt across this country, and it did so in a way that focused on the right elements. What were those elements? Spending and tax reform.

Many of us were worried at the outset that the Commission would focus on just trying to solve the problem with more tax increases and tell the American people that our spending habits here in Congress were too important to be dealt with and we would simply have to increase taxes in order to keep Congress spending at its breakneck rate. The Commission denied that fact and said: The reality is that the problem in Congress is they spend too much, and it put spending caps on discretionary spending and at least started--not as much as I thought it should do--the debate about how to deal with our entitlements.

One very important addition. It proposed a major reform of our Tax Code--probably the most sweeping tax reform I have seen in my lifetime. If you were to try to come up with a tax code that is more unfair, more complex, more costly to comply with and more anticompetitive to Americans seeking to do business in the world, you probably couldn't do much worse than we have done with our Tax Code. And one of the most important parts of dealing with our fiscal policy is to reform that Tax Code. So that is another reason I am so glad to see we have bipartisan support for that kind of reform.

As I close, I would simply say that I am heartened by the fact that we see Republicans and Democrats alike saying that the time for further inaction is gone. The time for gridlock is gone. We do not have time to continue the kind of gridlock debate we have seen over the years here in Congress as we deal with this issue. And it is my hope that in the near future, we will force process reforms in this Congress that will put votes on the difficult issues we must face as Americans before us.

With that, Mr. President, I yield my time and yield the floor for the Senator from North Carolina.

Mr. CRAPO: Mr. President, today I honor the life of Jane Falk Oppenheimer. I join with her family, including her 4 children, 12 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild, and her many friends in mourning her passing. Jane will be remembered warmly for her kindness, meaningful interest, sense of humor, wisdom, spirit and commitment to her family and the betterment of Idaho.

She leaves behind a legacy of support for Idaho's arts and significant Boise institutions and organizations. Jane helped establish and supported the Idaho Botanical Garden and the Idaho Community Foundation. She also supported the Boise Philharmonic, Idaho Public Television, Idaho Shakespeare Festival, Head Start, Boise Junior League, Family Advocate Program, College of Idaho, Boise Opera Guild, Boise Art Museum and the Young Tennis Foundation. She was also a member of the Boise Garden Club, Women's Investment Club, Hillcrest Country Club and Arid Club. She advocated for art programs throughout Idaho through her service on the Idaho Commission on the Arts, and her support of the arts was recognized through a Governor's Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Arts. Her patronage of the arts also extended to her consistent attendance at plays, concerts, art openings and other community events. Jane received many other awards and recognitions, including Idaho Statesman Distinguished Citizen, Girl Scout Women Leaders of Today and Tomorrow and the Boise Area Chamber of Commerce Distinguished Citizen of the Year Award for her outstanding service.

Born in Boise, Jane graduated from St. Teresa's Academy, attended Stanford University and Finch School, and worked for the Navy. Jane then served in the Red Cross during World War II in Washington, DC, London and Walhampton, England. After returning from the war, Jane married Arthur Oppenheimer in 1945. They traveled the world together during their wonderful more than 55-year marriage.

Leo J. and Helen Falk, Jane's parents, were also dedicated supporters of Idaho institutions. Her father assisted with the construction of the Egyptian Theater, the Boise Depot and the Owyhee Plaza Hotel. Helen assisted with the establishment of the Boise Art Gallery, known today as the Boise Art Museum.

Jane Oppenheimer's dedication, benevolence and generous spirit will be greatly missed but not forgotten. Her legacy of loving and devoted support will continue to serve as an enduring example. Through her leadership and advocacy, more Idahoans are able to benefit from the arts. I extend deep gratitude for her many years of great service to our State and Idahoans.

Mr. President, I rise today to recognize a longtime member of my staff who recently became a Senior Stennis Congressional Fellow.

Ken Flanz has been a central member of my staff since 1997, currently serving as my legislative director. In addition to advancing my legislative agenda and guiding my staff, Ken's responsibilities include foreign affairs, intelligence, Native Americans, appropriations, congressional and campaign reform, and human rights issues. Throughout his years of dedicated service, Ken has been a valued resource to many in the Senate and has contributed helpful insight. His thoughtful approach, patience, and knowledge have been instrumental to the Senate community.

Ken's achievements through the Stennis Congressional Fellows Program will serve him well and be beneficial to my office and the Senate. The Stennis Program seeks to enhance senior congressional staff members' leadership skills and communications abilities for those committed to public service. Senior fellows advance congressional staff development and serve as significant resources for Members of Congress, fellow staff, and the public. The program's emphasis on nonpartisanship and the long-term effectiveness of Congress provides for an essential discourse.

I have great appreciation for Ken's experience and circumspection. He has served as a trusted adviser and has been a great asset to me and my staff. I commend Ken for this distinguished achievement.