Rod Grams: “I don't know how or why it developed, but one trait most humans share is a deep interest in chronicling the passage of…”

“I don't know how or why it developed, but one trait most humans share is a deep interest in chronicling the passage of time. And so we attach a special significance to the observance of anniversaries--those anniversaries marking celebration and achievement, and those marking solemn events of remembrance and passage. On May 20, 3 weeks from today, we'll have an opportunity to observe both. We'll be celebrating the 88th birthday of actor Jimmy Stewart, the 64th anniversary of Amelia Earhart's solo flight across the Atlantic, the patenting of the fountain pen in 1830, and Levis' riveted-pocket blue jeans in 1873. But on May 20, we'll also be observing a much more troubling event, because unless the Government takes action in the next 3 weeks to stop it, we'll be marking the 1-year anniversary of the closing of Pennsylvania Avenue in front of the White House. Mr. President, we have an opportunity--an obligation--to prevent this anniversary from ever happening.”