[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 99 (Tuesday, July 8, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1419]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 CENTRALIA SESQUICENTENNIAL RECOGNITION

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JOHN SHIMKUS

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 8, 2003

  Mr. SHIMKUS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay special tribute to the 
City of Centralia, Illinois as she celebrates her sesquicentennial. 
Since 1853, the people of Centralia have lived and prospered and given 
so much to this great nation.
  Centralia was founded as a result of the building of the Illinois 
Central Railroad, hence the name Centralia. It was also a coal-mining 
town almost from the first years of its existence. The town has 
experienced an oil boom in the mid 1900s and is home to much industry.
  Over the years Centralia has produced many leaders who have been 
instrumental in our Nation's history. One reason is due to the quality 
education provided. It is also the home of the ``Winningest Basketball 
Team in America,'' the Centralia Carillon, and the Centralia Balloon 
Fest; just to name a few.
  I am proud to represent the people of the great City of Centralia and 
to share in this special occasion. I thank them for all they give to 
our country and I wish them another successful 150 years. 
Congratulations and ``Go Orphans!''

                          ____________________