* The first piece of steel superstructure was erected Aug. 16, 1990.

* More than 5,000 tons of painted steel was used in construction of the new stadium.

* More than 700 workers have been employed at the stadium site.

* There are no columns in the new ballpark.

* Oriole Park is already earning praise through imitation. Page 1C

* Michael Olesker comments on Governor Schaefer's public agonizing over attending the opening day game. Page 1D