[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 120 (Thursday, September 4, 2003)]
[Senate]
[Page S11114]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     HONORING THE IDAHO MINING ASSOCIATION ON ITS 100TH ANNIVERSARY

 Mr. CRAPO. Madam President, I offer congratulations to the 
Idaho Mining Association on its 100th anniversary. The mining industry 
has long been an economic force in Idaho, which is nicknamed the Gem 
State, and the association has been a strong advocate for that 
industry.
  The association held its first meeting in the summer of 1903, and was 
first known as the Idaho Prospectors and Operators. The occasion of the 
meeting was an urgent invitation from the Governor of Missouri to Idaho 
Governor Frank R. Gooding that Idaho furnish a display of mineral 
products for the 1904 International Exposition in St. Louis. Ten years 
later, this group changed its name to the Idaho Mining Association and 
has operated continuously since.
  Early records of the group clearly state its original purpose:

       It is imperative that there be a better understanding on 
     the part of the people generally, and of those who enact and 
     administer our laws particularly; that the economy of our 
     nation, the happiness and welfare of our people, the safety 
     of the Republic itself depend upon a healthy mineral 
     industry.

  The importance of minerals in our lives and to our economy has not 
diminished over the past century. The price and availability of raw 
materials are critically important to our manufacturing industries. The 
computer, telecommunication and electronic industries that represent an 
ever-growing share of our economic output, and dominate our daily 
lives, wouldn't be possible without the vast array of minerals produced 
in this country. We even rely on minerals to produce the new equipment 
that enhances the productivity of the nation's workers. It remains 
essential that we, as ``those who enact and administer our laws,'' 
continue to recognize the importance of our domestic mining industry.
  Once again, my congratulations to the Idaho Mining Association and 
its members as they mark this important milestone. I send my very best 
wishes for its continued success in serving the best interests of the 
State of Idaho and the nation.

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