[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 146 (2000), Part 12]
[Senate]
[Page 17103]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



              RETURN OF FLAGSHIP ``NIAGARA'' TO LAKE ERIE

 Mr. SANTORUM. Mr. President, I would like to recognize Captain 
Walter Rybka and the officers and crew of the Flagship Niagara on their 
return from their East Coast ten-month voyage. The Flagship Niagara is 
a symbol of Erie, Pennsylvania's history and serves as an Ambassador of 
the Commonwealth when in participates in tall ship events. As a 
resident of Pennsylvania, I am proud to have such a treasure as part of 
our history.
  The Flagship Niagara has played an important role in our nation's 
history. It sailed proudly in the War of 1812 and fought in the Battle 
of Lake Erie. I commend the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum 
Commission, the Flagship Niagara League, and the City of Erie for 
restoring the ship and making it available so that others in the United 
States may learn of its history.
  I would also like to take this opportunity to express my sincere 
appreciation to those who serve on the Flagship Niagara. The Flagship 
Niagara is a part of Pennsylvania's history, and your commitment to the 
ship and to Erie is highly commendable.

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