[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 42 (Tuesday, April 16, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E546]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             IN COMMEMORATION OF SMITHFIELD, NORTH CAROLINA

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BOB ETHERIDGE

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 16, 2002

  Mr. ETHERIDGE. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in commemoration of 
Smithfield, North Carolina. On April 23, 2002 Smithfield will celebrate 
its 225th Birthday. Smithfield is located in the heart of Johnston 
County in the 2nd Congressional District of North Carolina. Established 
on the banks of the Neuse River as the seat of Johnston County 
Government in 1777, it is one of the oldest towns in the United States.
  Though Smithfield is a town with just over 11,000 residents, the 
residents carry themselves with a pride representative of the entire 
state of North Carolina. It is a community that supports traditional 
family values, southern hospitality and that offers a high quality of 
life. Into this inviting environment has come a myriad of large and 
small businesses, drawn by a dedication to hard work. The pride of the 
community is shown in the excellence of its school system--in its 
facilities, educators and students. An example of this excellence is 
Johnston Community College housed in Smithfield.
  Smithfield is known worldwide for its ham and yams, and each year the 
town celebrates during the Ham & Yam Festival. The festival is held the 
first weekend in May each year, and features arts, crafts, commercial 
vendors, a carnival, dancing and youth activities. Smithfield's 
heritage is rich in Civil War and agricultural history.
  The strong work ethic and dedication of the people of Smithfield has 
made Johnston County the number two county in the nation in growing 
flue-cured tobacco. Not only does Smithfield raise great crops but also 
great individuals. Among Smithfield's finest is Actress Ava Gardner. 
Ava Gardner grew up near Smithfield and is buried in Sunset Memorial 
Park. Today she is honored in a local museum celebrating her Hollywood 
career with more than 100,000 items.
  Mr. Speaker in closing I will like to send my best wishes and 
gratitude to the people of Smithfield, North Carolina in wishing them a 
Very Happy Birthday! I know that our nation is stronger today because 
of their contributions.

                          ____________________