[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 125 (Tuesday, July 22, 2025)]
[Senate]
[Page S4526]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       RECOGNIZING PRESTON, IDAHO

 Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, today, I rise with my colleagues 
Senator Mike Crapo and Congressman  Mike Simpson to celebrate the 125th 
birthday of Preston, ID. From the famous Preston Night Rodeo to the 
historic brick-and-mortar businesses along State Street, Preston has 
both a deep history and bright future to be celebrated.
  The first settlers arrived in the Preston area in 1888, establishing 
a small agricultural town in the fertile Cache Valley of southeastern 
Idaho, which they called ``Worm Creek.'' The community, shaped by 
faith, family, hard work, and resilience, was officially incorporated 
on July 25, 1900. The newly formed city was named Preston in honor of 
William B. Preston, the fourth Presiding Bishop of the Church of Jesus 
Christ of Latter-day Saints.
  Preston quickly became known for its strong agricultural foundation, 
primarily in dairy, sugar beet, and grain farming, which still 
influence the economy today. In 1904, the Oregon Short Line Railroad 
connected Preston to larger nearby markets, spurring growth in 
commerce, education, and the community in Franklin County. Preston High 
School was built shortly thereafter, in 1908. In the more than 100 
years since, the school has gained recognition not only for its 
academic achievements but also for the 2004 pop culture sensation 
``Napoleon Dynamite.'' This iconic film captured the sincerity and 
quiet charm that Preston has displayed since its founding.
  The city of Preston is a true testament to Western American heritage. 
These values are evident in the kindness of the community, rich 
agricultural roots, and the Famous Preston Night Rodeo. Since 1934, the 
award-winning Preston Rodeo has attracted world-champion cowboys and 
cowgirls, stimulated economic development, and inspired generations of 
family fun.
  For 125 years, Preston has demonstrated that hard work, responsible 
stewardship of the land, and commitment to community create a lasting 
impact. Today, we proudly recognize more than a century of this small 
town's strong families, agricultural innovations, and notable small 
businesses that will continue to shape its future.

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