[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 77 (Thursday, June 15, 2006)]
[Senate]
[Page S5948]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               125TH ANNIVERSARY OF STEELE, NORTH DAKOTA

 Mr. CONRAD. Mr. President, today I recognize a community in 
North Dakota that will be celebrating its 125th anniversary. On June 
30-July 2, the residents of Steele will gather to celebrate their 
community's history and founding.
  Steele is a thriving community in North Dakota. The city was founded 
by Wilbur F. Steele in 1878. He purchased the land from the railroad 
and had hopes that the city would house the State capitol. Mr. Steele 
constructed a building in the city to serve as a place for the 
legislature to meet. Since Steele was not chosen as the State's 
capital, the building became the Kidder County Courthouse, which is 
still in use today.
  Steele is best known for its 38\1/2\ foot high Sandhill Crane. This 
piece of art was inspired by the numerous birds and ducks that migrate 
through Steele each year. Steele has plenty to offer to its residents 
and visitors, from the golf course and parks to fishing, hunting, and 
crosscountry skiing.
  The community has planned a wonderful weekend celebration to 
commemorate its 125th anniversary. The celebration includes an all 
school reunion, parade, fireworks, auction, outdoor concert, a street 
dance, and much more.
  Mr. President, I ask the Senate to join me in congratulating Steele, 
ND, and its residents on their first 125 years and in wishing them well 
through the next century. By honoring Steele and all the other historic 
small towns of North Dakota, we keep the great pioneering frontier 
spirit alive for future generations. It is places such as Steele that 
have helped to shape this country into what it is today, which is why 
this fine community is deserving of our recognition.
  Steele has a proud past and a bright future.

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