[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 187 (Monday, November 13, 2023)]
[Senate]
[Page S5478]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  150TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE MADISONIAN

 Mr. TESTER. Mr. President, I rise today to honor the 
longstanding tradition of weekly, rural newspapers in Montana. This 
week, Montana's longest running weekly print newspaper is celebrating 
its 150th anniversary. Originally located in Virginia City, MT, dating 
all the way back to November 1873, the Madisonian newspaper now located 
in Ennis, MT, has kept residents of Madison County up to date and 
informed on what is happening in their community for a century and a 
half. From local elections, to stories about new public schools and 
libraries, the Madisonian has told the stories of Madison County 
residents for generations--heck, they have told these stories since 
before Montana was officially admitted to the Union.
  The Madisonian is a paramount example of how folks in rural America 
stay informed. Rural weekly newspapers like the Madisonian are the 
lifeblood of engaged citizens in Montana. They tell stories, they keep 
us informed, and they hold elected officials--like me--accountable. The 
folks at these papers work long hours for little pay, and are often 
forced to drive long distances to chase leads, but they do it to serve 
their readers.
  Much like hospitals and schools, rural newspapers are part of the 
fabric of their communities and help to keep every corner of our State 
strong. I appreciate the work of our weekly newspapers across Montana, 
but today, I especially appreciate the work of the people at the 
Madisonian that have kept this tradition alive for 150 years.
  Thank you for keeping Montana informed, and I look forward to the 
next 150.

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