[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 41 (Friday, March 9, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E503]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     THE 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ESTABLISHMENT OF DEL NORTE COUNTY

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                           HON. MIKE THOMPSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, March 9, 2007

  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize 
the 150th anniversary of the County of Del Norte, the very northwest 
corner of the 1st Congressional District and the State of California.
  Del Norte County features an extraordinary landscape that includes 
majestic redwoods and spectacular coastline. It is home to Redwood 
National and State Parks, the sparkling waters of the wild and scenic 
Smith River and the Smith River National Recreation Area. The residents 
are extraordinary and rugged individuals, who work hard and who value 
the very special place in which they live.
  The county was created by the California Legislature in 1857, which 
transformed a portion of former Klamath County, California, into a new 
political entity known as Del Norte County.
  The Yurok and Tolowa peoples have called the region home for 
thousands of years and continue to play a vital role in the life of Del 
Norte County. Their skills in woodworking and basketry were exceptional 
and form the basis of a thriving cultural and artistic community.
  The first timber mill was brought by ship to Del Norte County in 
1853, and over the next 100 plus years produced lumber that was used to 
build the state and realize the dreams of all Californians. The rich 
ocean environment has created a dynamic fishing industry and the mild 
climate and fertile fields of the Smith River plain grow the Nation's 
supply of Easter lilies. The county is blessed with two historic 
lighthouses, Battery Point and Point St. George. The county seat of 
Crescent City has the distinction of being the only city in the 
continental United States to be struck by a tsunami wave, on March 28, 
1964. Despite the destruction of over 150 businesses, the hearty 
character of local residents was on display during the rapid 
reconstruction of the town, earning the name, ``Comeback Town USA''.
  Madam Speaker, it is appropriate at this time that we recognize the 
County of Del Norte on the occasion of their 150th anniversary, and 
congratulate the residents of Del Norte County on all that they have 
achieved.

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