[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 116 (Thursday, August 1, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1426]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           THE SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION COMES TO ST. PAUL, MN

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                          HON. BRUCE F. VENTO

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 31, 1996

  Mr. VENTO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 150th anniversary 
of the Smithsonian Institution and to recognize my home city of St. 
Paul, MN, which has the honor of hosting the America's Smithsonian Tour 
this fall.
  The Smithsonian Institution's collection is the ultimate expression 
of the history, culture, creativity and abilities of America's and the 
world's people. The Smithsonian was founded in 1846 for the ``increase 
and diffusion of knowledge,'' and the Smithsonian continues to achieve 
success in striving toward that great goal, educating America through 
its sixteen museums and galleries, the National Zoological Park and 
significant, innovative role in facilities within the United States and 
abroad. The items restored, cared for and housed by the Smithsonian are 
important for science and research. These items have often become 
treasures that have not only contributed to America's knowledge base, 
but are parts of our cultural and artistic legacy. They have helped 
shape and define the history of our Nation and the world. America 
should be justly proud of the Smithsonian's collection and the hard 
work and dedication of its staff in bringing these treasures to our 
city.
   America's Smithsonian is a special collection of over 300 items 
acquired from sixteen Smithsonian Museums in Washington, DC. The tour 
is currently crossing the Nation so that people in all corners of the 
country can experience a sample of the Smithsonian's legacy. The St. 
Paul Civic Center is the fifth stop on America's Smithsonian Tour, 
hosting this magnificent experience as a monthlong exhibit beginning in 
mild-October.
  More than a celebration of the Smithsonian's 150 year existence, 
America's Smithsonian symbolizes America's accomplishments and fuels 
the fire of hope and optimism that drives our Nation even today to 
achieve even higher aspirations. The dynamic Smithsonian collection 
continues to grow, preserving the essence of America as an embroidery 
on the tapestry of the American heritage for future generations.
  Touring America's Smithsonian is a unique opportunity to view some of 
the most significant pieces of America's past. I hope that every 
Minnesotan has the opportunity to see the exhibit during the tour's 
monthlong visit, and I join the entire St. Paul community in welcoming 
the Smithsonian Institution to Minnesota.

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