[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 31 (Thursday, March 19, 1998)]
[Senate]
[Page S2247]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  SUPPORT FOR MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY IN THE NCAA MEN'S BASKETBALL 
                               TOURNAMENT

  Mr. ABRAHAM. Mr. President, with the serious issue of NATO expansion 
out of the way, I want to draw my colleagues' attention to another 
topic with national implications. Tonite, Michigan State University 
will face the University of North Carolina in the semifinals of the 
NCAA Men's Basketball tournament.
  In anticipation of this contest, I would like to announce a friendly 
agreement between myself and my colleague from North Carolina, Senator 
Faircloth. As an alumnus of Michigan State University, I have so much 
confidence that the Spartans will beat the Tar Heels that I have 
indicated to the Senator from North Carolina I will make available to 
him a bushel of the finest, fresh Michigan cherries in the event that 
somehow my expectations are dashed. It is my understanding that the 
Senator from North Carolina has promised, if I am correct, that 
Michigan will receive a product of North Carolina origin, specifically 
North Carolina peanuts, if we should win.
  When the best of the Big Ten faces the best of the Atlantic Coast 
Conference, I will bet on the Big Ten every time, Mr. President. 
Michigan State may be the underdog on paper, but seeds and rankings 
mean nothing once the ball is tipped. I know that Coach Tom Izzo's 
squad is having their best season in years, and their ride isn't going 
to end just yet. I look forward to the result and reporting back to the 
Senate at my next opportunity.
  I yield the floor.
  I suggest the absence of a quorum.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. The clerk will call the roll. The bill clerk 
proceeded to call the roll.
  Mr. GRAHAM. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for 
the quorum call be rescinded.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered.

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