[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 74 (Monday, June 12, 2006)]
[Senate]
[Pages S5714-S5715]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       RECOGNIZING THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE DETROIT SALT MINE

 Mr. LEVIN. Mr. President, this year we celebrate the 100th 
anniversary of the Detroit Salt Mine, and I would like to take this 
opportunity to congratulate them on reaching this important milestone.
  In 1906, the Detroit Salt and Manufacturing Company began 
constructing the Detroit Salt Mine. The first few years were 
tumultuous, as the construction itself was so challenging and

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costly that the company went bankrupt before it began to mine salt. 
Fortunately, the company quickly rebounded and completed its first 
mining shaft in 1910. The mine has passed through many hands over the 
years but is currently operated by the Detroit Salt Company, which has 
owned it since 1997.
  Today, the Detroit Salt Company solely produces highway deicing salt, 
the salt that is used to melt the ice that covers roadways during the 
winter. It provides this salt not only for Michigan roadways but for 
other roads throughout the Midwest. Without this valuable product, our 
roadways would be repeatedly crippled during the winter months, causing 
massive and regular shutdowns of schools and businesses.
  It is also important to recognize the Detroit Salt Company's efforts 
to keep its mine safe for its many workers. The Mine Health and Safety 
Administration has recognized the Detroit Salt Company for its 
excellent safety standards with the Sentinel of Safety Award for 3 of 
the last 6 years. Additionally, the company is part of the Detroit 
Local Emergency Planning Committee, taking an active role in keeping 
not only its employees, but also the citizens of its community safe and 
secure.
  I know my colleagues join me in recognizing the historical 
significance of the Detroit Salt Mine and congratulate all of those who 
have contributed to its success.

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