(2003-01-09) -- Usama Bin Laden announced plans today to build a new hospital in Seattle named after Sen. Patty Murray, D-WA.

The popular Islamic philanthropist said Patty Murray General Hospital would serve the poor and children for free.

Sen. Murray, in a speech to high school students recently, attributed Mr. Bin Laden's popularity to his humanitarian work in building hospitals, schools and roads in impoverished communities in Afghanistan and elsewhere.

"Of course the Senator is honored," said a spokesman. "She'll be at the ribbon cutting. She hopes to meet Mr. Bin Laden, who is the Mother Theresa of our generation."

A spokesman for Mr. Bin Laden said he wants no publicity.

"This is just who he is," said the spokesman. "Allah has blessed him, and he wishes to be a blessing to others. Sen. Murray impressed him with her vast knowledge, and sensitivity."

Mr. Bin Laden also plans to pay tribute to Sen. Murray by building a new airport in her honor in eastern Virginia.