[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 75 (Tuesday, June 13, 2006)]
[Senate]
[Page S5775]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      125TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FOUNDING OF MELLETTE, SOUTH DAKOTA

 Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, today I pay tribute to the 125th 
anniversary of the founding of the city of Mellette, SD.
  Mellette was incorporated into South Dakota in 1881, with the first 
store opening the same year. The community was named after Arthur 
Mellette, the first governor of South Dakota. By 1882, Mellette was a 
thriving town with 39 businesses including doctors, lawyers, and other 
professionals. The Western Enterprise was the first newspaper in 
Mellette, and by the time publication ended in 1941, the newspaper was 
the oldest, continuous paper in Spink County.
  Today, Mellette is the home of 240 residents, 8 businesses, churches, 
and other civic organizations. The Mellette Volunteer Fire Department, 
established in 1895, still keeps residents safe. Northwestern 
Elementary, Middle, and High Schools also call Mellette home.
  I am pleased to announce that Mellette celebrated its 125th 
anniversary with a community celebration on May 26 to 27. There were 
numerous events, such as karaoke, a flea market, a parade, an antique 
tractor pull, a horseshoe tournament, kid's games, and a Harley 
motorcycle raffle, followed by a community supper. A historical display 
included ``Old Time'' Mellette videos. The festivities were a fitting 
celebration to honor a wonderful community.
  I am proud to publicly honor Mellette on this memorable occasion. 
After 125 years, Mellette still exemplifies what it means to be a great 
South Dakota community.

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