DORGAN COMMEMORATES LAKOTA'S 125TH ANNIVERSARY
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
CONTACT: Justin Kitsch
or Brenden Timpe
PHONE: 202-224-2551
(LAKOTA, N.D.) – Today, Senator Byron Dorgan (D-N.D.) helped celebrate Lakota’s 125th anniversary by presenting area leaders with a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol.
“This flag is symbolic of the strength in rural America,” Dorgan said. “North Dakota’s strength is in its communities like Lakota, and the proud, patriotic people who live there.”
Dorgan also recently sent the following letter to Lakota’s mayor about the anniversary.
TEXT OF LETTER
BY SENATOR BYRON L. DORGAN
JUNE 26, 2008
"Dear Friends:
"When the railroad first built its tracks across northern Dakota, it figured it had a perfect town site for Lakota. But it had a problem. A family with the unlikely name of the Uzel Osbornes already were living there. Imperially, railroad officials simply ordered that the family’s home be hauled away. Uzel, however, had built a sturdy structure and the railroad’s teams of oxen couldn’t budge it.
"And so the first resident of Lakota won that battle with one of America’s great corporate giants. And the people of Lakota have inherited that pioneer family’s feisty spirit and determination. They have built, like Uzel’s house, a sturdy city, a center of family life and of commerce.
"Lakota remains a vital place. I know its residents will continue to create a community where people genuinely care about each other. I’m honored to salute you on this notable 125th anniversary.
"Best wishes!
"Sincerely,
"Byron L. Dorgan
U.S. Senator"
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