[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 82 (Thursday, June 22, 2006)]
[Senate]
[Page S6413]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                100TH ANNIVERSARY OF RYDER, NORTH DAKOTA

 Mr. CONRAD. Mr. President, I wish today to recognize a 
community in North Dakota that will be celebrating its 100th 
anniversary. On July 7 to 9, the residents of Ryder will gather to 
celebrate their community's history and founding.
  Ryder holds an important place in North Dakota's history. Originally, 
the town chose Centerville as its name, but the post office said that 
name was already taken. The town was eventually named ``Ryder'' because 
of Arthur R. Ryder, who lent his coat to the local postal official. To 
thank Mr. Ryder for his generosity, the postal official named the town 
after him. Many new businesses started to emerge in Ryder after its 
founding, including banks, hardware stores, general stores, livery 
barns, hotels, restaurants, grain elevators, a blacksmith shop, a 
photograph gallery, and three churches.
  Today, Ryder is a vibrant community. The people of Ryder are very 
proud of their community, and they have a strong sense of camaraderie. 
Ryder is actively involved in creating new ideas for preserving the 
town that is so dearly loved by the entire community. Ryder is planning 
3 fun-filled days to celebrate its centennial, which will be enjoyed by 
people of all ages. Activities include dedication of a wall honoring 
the veterans of Ryder, a magic show, a street dance, and baseball 
games.
  Mr. President, I ask the Senate to join me in congratulating Ryder, 
ND, and its residents on their first 100 years and in wishing them well 
through the next century. By honoring Ryder and all the other historic 
small towns of North Dakota, we keep the great pioneering frontier 
spirit alive for future generations. It is places such as Ryder that 
have helped to shape this country into what it is today, which is why 
this fine community is deserving of our recognition.
  Ryder has a proud past and a bright future.

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