[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 99 (Monday, June 16, 2008)]
[Senate]
[Page S5654]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                125TH ANNIVERSARY OF ETHAN, SOUTH DAKOTA

 Mr. JOHNSON. Madam President, today I pay tribute to the 125th 
anniversary of the founding of the city of Ethan, South Dakota. After 
125 years, this progressive community will have a chance to reflect on 
its past and future, and I congratulate the people of Ethan for all 
that they have accomplished.
  The city of Ethan was founded in 1883 as a railroad town named after 
Ethan Allen of historical fame. Jerome Miles was the primary landowner 
of Ethan Territory. The first school was built in 1885, followed by the 
first Catholic and Methodist churches which were both built in 1887.
  Today, Ethan is a growing and developing small town community located 
in Davison County. Ethan has a population of 312 and is home to 
numerous colorful characters, including many descendents of the 
original founders. Ethan features several local businesses, including 
grain elevators, hotels, banks, restaurants, doctor's offices, 
churches, a public school, and a beautiful park. Ethan Coop Lumber just 
celebrated their 100 year anniversary in 2007, and Ethan Public School 
has been declared a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence by the U.S. 
Department of Education.
  Ethan will be commemorating its anniversary with a celebration on the 
weekend of June 13-15. The town plans to hold the Miss Ethan Pageant, a 
street dance, a parade, and hot air balloon rides. The events of the 
weekend promise to provide great opportunities to celebrate such a 
historic milestone.
  Even 125 years after its founding, Ethan continues to be a vibrant 
community. I am proud to honor the accomplishments of the people of 
Ethan, and congratulate them on this impressive achievement.

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