Suzanne Lewis, Letters from Friends Speech Transcript

Speaker: Suzanne Lewis, Superintendent of Yellowstone National Park

Suzanne Lewis: The Old Faithful Inn has friends around the world just like Jim told us. Of course, most of them couldn't be with us today and I am guessing that's probable on OK thing because I don't think we have enough cake to go around.

[Laughter]

But I know that there thoughts are with us today. It's my pleasure to bring you greetings from some of Yellowstone's Congressional friends from around our region. I begin by quoting: "I join everyone here in offering hearty congratulations to Old Faithful Inn as we celebrate 100 years of this wonderful national historic landmark. Serving as an icon to the park system, this masterpiece of wood and stone embodies the preservation of the wildlife and natural resources, including some of the greatest thermal wonders of the world just a stones throw away. The Inn serves as a wonderful place to welcome visitors from all over the world when they come to visit the crown jewel of the National Park Service. May she stand proudly forever, a symbol of all that is right with our country. Best regards, Craig Thomas, United States Senator, Wyoming."

[Applause]

"The Old Faithful Inn, like the park in which it sits, is a unique symbol of America. Its architectural style in which the structure seems to become part of the landscape itself has added to the beauty of the Old Faithful area as well as inspired architects and builders in other national parks. For 100 years it has welcomed visitors from across the globe. As we get ready to begin its second century, here's to hoping that it will remain with us as a testament to American ingenuity, architectural brilliance, and the spirit of the American West. Sincerely, Larry E. Craig, United States Senator, Idaho."

[Applause]

"Yellowstone National Park and the Old Faithful Inn play an important part in our state's heritage and way of life. Montana is an outdoor state. We take our children hiking, fishing and camping. Millions of people visit our state each year specifically to vacation in Yellowstone National Park, and Old Faithful helps to keep those traditions alive. All the best, Max Baucus, U.S. Senator, Montana."

[Applause]

"Over the past 100 years the Old Faithful Inn has served as the centerpiece of Yellowstone National Park. It is one of Wyoming's most innovative and spectacular historic buildings and the namesake of Old Faithful Geyser. The experience of staying at Old Faithful or just visiting the interpretive exhibits, museums and nostalgic displays located there have afforded innumerable people the opportunity to experience our nation's heritage. With best regards, Barbara Cubin, member of Congress, Wyoming."

[Applause]

Congresswoman Cubin's description of the Old Faithful Inn as an innovative and spectacular historic building reminds us that we are forever indebted to the visionaries who made this remarkable structure a reality