A resolution celebrating the 125th anniversary of the State of South Dakota.

Mr. President, today, I join with my colleague, the junior Senator from South Dakota, in celebrating the birth of our home State, which entered the union 125 years ago on November 2. I'm a fourth generation South Dakotan, and my great- grandfather was a homesteader in what was then known as the Dakota Territory. As I have learned growing up in Canton and from the generations of my family that came before me, being a South Dakotan instills in oneself a unique kind of work ethic and a drive to do good unto others.

South Dakotans know how to deal with adversity and they know how to help each other when disaster strikes. Last year, a devastating blizzard hit much of western South Dakota, causing millions of dollars in damage and killing tens of thousands of head of livestock. Without blinking an eye, neighbors were out helping neighbors who lost power. They donated their time and money to help ranchers who lost their livelihoods. Recovery would not have been possible without the inherent attitude that South Dakotans have to help one another.

South Dakotans also have a lot to celebrate this year. The ag industry has driven our economy, creating jobs and spurring economic development in rural communities. Our State also boasts some of the Nation's most popular tourist destinations including the Badlands, the Black Hills National Forest, the world's only Corn Palace, and some of the best pheasant hunting in the country. Mount Rushmore in the Black Hills also symbolizes democracy and enables all Americans to remember and celebrate our history. The Crazy Horse monument, which is still a work in progress, honors the legendary Lakota warrior. South Dakota is also home to nine Native American tribes, each having its own distinct cultures and traditions.

There is an awful lot to be proud of in our State, from the attitude we have as individuals to what we have built during our 125 year history. Throughout this past year, South Dakotans have taken part in a number of activities to celebrate our State's history, heritage, and culture, and those celebrations will continue in the weeks ahead. I am honored to play just a small role in this celebration by joining with my colleague in offering this resolution, and I urge all of our colleagues to join us in celebrating the birth of our State.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to the consideration of S. Res. 566, which was submitted earlier today.

I ask unanimous consent that the resolution be agreed to, the preamble be agreed to, and the motions to reconsider be laid upon the table with no intervening action or debate.