[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 2 (Wednesday, January 7, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E31]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   117TH ANNIVERSARY OF ELLIS ISLAND

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. ALBIO SIRES

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, January 7, 2009

  Mr. SIRES. Madam Speaker, tooday I rise to recognize the 117th 
anniversary of the opening of Ellis Island. Originally opened on 
January 1, 1892, the island remains a part of American history and our 
culture. Together with the Statue of Liberty, these places represent 
what it means to be an American.
  During the attacks of September 11, 2001 these symbols stood as a 
reminder and a warning that we will prevail against those who wish us 
harm. So great are these symbols that visitors from here and abroad 
visit them every day. Yet the Statue of Liberty crown is still closed 
to visitors. I am happy that both President-Elect Obama and Interior 
Secretary Designate Salazar support fully opening up the crown.
  I am optimistic that we will again allow Americans and foreign 
visitors to peer out from the crown and to think about what it means to 
be an American.

                          ____________________