[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 96 (Wednesday, June 26, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1177-E1178]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   FOSSTON, MN: AN ALL-AMERICAN CITY

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. COLLIN C. PETERSON

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 26, 1996

  Mr. PETERSON of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, today I ask my colleagues to 
join me in congratulating Fosston, MN for being named an All-American 
City. This is a distinct honor for the state of Minnesota and for all 
the people of Fosston.
  It is difficult for a small town to get the attention of National 
Civic League jurists, but the citizens of Fosston and their community 
leaders did just that. As 1 of only 10 small towns selected to receive 
this award, this town of 1,500 people proved that it is All-American, 
through and through.
  For example, the Fosston school has established a program to keep 
young people in Fosston after graduation. Todays small town youth often 
seek opportunities in larger cities, but Fosston has developed a 
program to demonstrate to high school students that there can be 
economic opportunities in the town where you grew up.
  In addition, school and community leaders have formed a committee to 
examine both the opportunities and potential problems that could lie 
ahead for Fosston. This kind of future oriented community program makes 
Fosston unique among small towns, and a model for others to follow.
  My Minnesota district is made up of numerous small towns just like 
Fosston, and you will find the same kind of community pride and 
involvement in all of them. I will not be surprised

[[Page E1178]]

if Fosston's award inspires many other small Minnesota communities to 
prove that they too are All-American Cities.
  Congratulations to Fosston, MN, and every person in the community who 
has worked to make the town what it is today.

                          ____________________