[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 75 (Wednesday, May 23, 2012)]
[Senate]
[Pages S3512-S3513]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          BALTA, NORTH DAKOTA

 Mr. CONRAD. Mr. President, I am pleased to honor a vibrant 
community in North Dakota that will soon celebrate its 100th 
anniversary. From June 15 through June 17 of this year, the residents 
of Balta will commemorate their community's history and founding.
  Originally named Egan when the town was founded in 1912, its rail 
station was an important spot on the Soo Line Railroad. However, when 
it was discovered that a rail station in South Dakota had already 
claimed the name of Egan, the small village changed its name to Balta 
when the post office opened on February 6, 1913. This new name was 
taken from a town in southern Russia, which is not surprising 
considering the heritage of the settlers, who were mostly Germans from 
Russia. Balta enjoys a reputation for some of the best duck and deer 
hunting in the State, and the community especially enjoys boating, 
swimming, and fishing at the Balta Dam Recreation Area.
  The citizens of Balta are proud of their accomplishments and will 
celebrate the town's centennial with a

[[Page S3513]]

number of activities and hold an all-school reunion. Among the planned 
festivities are a ``Dam Fun Run'' at Balta Dam, an alumni basketball 
game, a parade, car show, street fair, pedal tractor pull, beer garden, 
and street dance. The activities should prove to be entertaining for 
all and a celebration of both the past and future of the town.
  I ask the United States Senate to join me in congratulating the 
residents of Balta, ND, on their 100th anniversary and in wishing them 
a bright future. Growing up in Balta has shaped many generations of 
North Dakotans and instilled in them the ``North Dakota Way,'' bringing 
pride not only to North Dakota, but to our great Nation. This fine 
community is deserving of our recognition.
  Balta has a proud past and a bright future.

                          ____________________