[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 105 (Tuesday, June 24, 2008)]
[Senate]
[Page S6013]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              125TH ANNIVERSARY OF MICHIGAN, NORTH DAKOTA

 Mr. CONRAD. Mr. President, I am pleased to honor a community 
in North Dakota that is celebrating it 125th anniversary. On July 24 
through July 27, the residents of Michigan will celebrate their 
community's history and founding.
  Michigan is a small town with a population of 345 residents located 
in Nelson County in northeastern North Dakota. It was established on 
January 2, 1883, with the completion of its post office with C.J. 
Bondurant as postmaster. Soon after its establishment, railroad tracks 
were completed, and, in March of 1883, the first train reached 
Michigan. The town quickly became known as a trading center. With the 
railroads came more people, who built businesses, churches and schools. 
The settlers began to cultivate the land and raise crops. Agriculture 
soon became the center of their economy and remains so to this day.
  Today, Michigan remains a proud community that has a prosperous 
economy consisting of farming, manufacturing industries, and retail 
businesses. Residents of Michigan are known for their honesty, strong 
work ethic, and living off the land. It is a great place for enjoying 
the outdoors all year round, including hunting, cross-country skiing, 
fishing, boating, and camping. Michigan Days is a highlight each 
summer. During Michigan Days, the residents enjoy live music, a 
softball tournament, street dances, a tractor pull, and ice cream 
socials.
  As part of the weekend anniversary celebration residents will be able 
to go to the interesting Dakota Mysteries and Oddities Museum. Michigan 
will also hold a golf tournament at the Duffers Club and dedicate the 
Veteran's Memorial Building for all the brave residents of Michigan who 
have served in past wars. Several other wonderful activities will be 
taking place throughout the weekend.
  Mr. President, I ask the U.S. Senate to join me in congratulating 
Michigan, ND, and its residents on their 125th anniversary and in 
wishing them well in the future. By honoring Michigan and all the other 
historic towns of North Dakota, we keep the pioneering frontier spirit 
alive for future generations. It is places such as Michigan that have 
helped shape this country into what it is today, which is why this 
community is deserving of our recognition.
  Michigan has a proud past and a bright future.

                          ____________________