[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 167 (Wednesday, December 5, 2001)]
[Senate]
[Page S12394]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         CONGRATULATING SENATOR STROM THURMOND ON HIS BIRTHDAY

  Mr. DASCHLE. Mr. President, this is a historic day in the Senate's 
history. Our colleague, the senior Senator from South Carolina, is 
celebrating his 99th birthday today. Bob Dole used to say that he 
followed Strom Thurmond very carefully; whatever he ate Bob Dole would 
eat. I have taken on that practice myself.
  I congratulate Senator Thurmond on his 99th birthday today and wish 
him well. We are delighted to serve with him and honored that he is 
here with us today. We congratulate him on a very special occasion, not 
only in his life but in the life of the Senate as well.
  (Applause, Senators rising.)
  Mr. THURMOND. I love all of you men, but you women even more.
  Mr. LOTT. Mr. President, I observe Senator Thurmond's microphone was 
not on at that moment. I do want to observe also on this very happy 
99th birthday, he is looking rather dapper today. He asked if perhaps 
the tie was a little too bright, and I said, no, it was befitting of 
him on this special occasion.
  We all extend our birthday wishes and very best wishes for the future 
to Senator Thurmond. He has been an example and an inspiration to all 
of us. He has been a tremendous servant for the people of South 
Carolina. I have known very few people in my life more dedicated to 
their job and to the people they represent. We are just so very proud 
of Senator Thurmond and extend him our very best wishes. Thank you, 
sir.
  (Applause, Senators rising.)
  Mr. THURMOND. Thank you very much. I want to thank all of you. I 
appreciate every one of you, especially you ladies. You're all good 
looking. God bless you.
  (Applause, Senators rising.)

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