[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 117 (Friday, September 10, 1999)]
[Senate]
[Page S10716]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[[Page S10716]]
           TRIBUTE TO JIMMIE DAVIS OF BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA

  Ms. LANDRIEU. Mr. President, I rise on behalf of Senator Breaux and 
myself to take note of the 100th birthday of one of Louisiana's 
favorite sons and one of our Nation's finest talents. Most Americans 
know Jimmie Davis through his world-famous song, ``You Are My 
Sunshine,'' one of the most popular songs in the history of recorded 
music. However, for Louisianians, Jimmie Davis is much more than a 
consummate entertainer and southern gentleman, he also helped lead 
Louisiana's government to new heights, passing the first retirement 
benefits for State employees, the first reforestation legislation and 
the first program to give free milk to school children.
  Jimmie Davis has been a college teacher, shaken hands with five or 
six Presidents, appeared in half a dozen movies, performed with stars 
such as Gene Autry, Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley, and twice was 
elected Governor of Louisiana.
  During his second term as Governor, the State's economy was in a 
downward spiral. However, by the end of his term, employment was higher 
than ever, personal incomes were up, school teachers saw their full 
salary schedule implemented and the ambitious Toledo Bend Dam was 
started.
  Jimmie Davis is widely known as a beloved and colorful leader. One 
day on the way to his office, he rode his horse up the Capitol steps, 
into the elevator and into his office. He ended every State legislative 
session with his band's rendition of ``It Makes No Difference Now.''
  Jimmie Davis is truly a Louisiana State treasure and a treasure for 
all Americans. He definitely is our sunshine.
  He is a man whom we all hope we can be like, because he is, as I say, 
celebrating his 100th birthday. So with those of us who hope to live to 
be 100, Jimmie Davis is a good example of how to do it.
  Jimmie Davis still loves to sing to this day, and if Majority Leader 
Lott would encourage him, he would probably join the Senate singing 
group because he is still quite active.
  Governor Jimmie Davis is one of Louisiana's favorite sons.
  I suggest the absence of a quorum.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. The clerk will call the roll.
  The legislative assistant proceeded to call the roll.
  Mr. COVERDELL. 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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