With 36 years in the U.S. Senate (16th longest ever) and a long list of legislative accomplishments that included the Pell Grant college-assistance program, establishment of the National Endowments for the Arts and Humanities, fast-speed passenger rail service, and a ban on nuclear testing on the ocean floor, the late Claiborne Pell had few equals. But he was much more than that -- a quirky and colorful man born into great wealth who spent most of his life in service to the people, a true example of noblesse oblige. Pell was a politician of unfailing courtesy, even during contentious times, a skilled legislator who worked both sides of the aisle with dignity and grace -- imagine that today, in the Joe Wilson/Glenn Beck era. A VERY DIFFERENT SENATOR (working title), by G. Wayne Miller with the cooperation of the Pell family, is the first and only book about his life. Due in 2010.

I am looking for stories about Senator Pell. If you have one you'd like to share, please CONTACT ME.

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• THE WORKS OF G. WAYNE MILLER