[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 145 (1999), Part 10]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 14422]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



                    CELEBRATING THE LIBERTY FESTIVAL

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. JOHN ELIAS BALDACCI

                                of maine

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, June 25, 1999

  Mr. BALDACCI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a group in my 
home state of Maine. This dedicated group of volunteers has banded 
together to produce an exceptional celebration of our nation's 
Independence called the Liberty Festival.
  The neighboring cities of Lewiston and Auburn for years hosted the 
traditional 4th of July fireworks display. Several years ago, a group 
got together and shared a dream of a more elaborate celebration of our 
nation's freedoms, ideals and history. They envisioned an event that 
would give families a place to gather, enjoy time together and 
celebrate our country.
  These volunteers worked hard and created the Liberty Festival, which 
has quickly become one of Maine's premier 4th of July celebrations. The 
three day event features performances by many of Maine's finest bands 
and the Portland Symphony Orchestra. This year the celebration will be 
opened by the first ever greater Lewiston/Auburn Air Show. It will 
conclude with an impressive fireworks display in the heart of the 
downtown district, launched over the majestic falls of the Androscoggin 
River.
  More than 100,000 citizens--including me--are expected to celebrate 
our nation's independence at the Liberty Festival. I want to publicly 
commend all who have given so much of their time and effort to make 
this outstanding event possible. Your vision, your dedication and your 
patriotism are deeply appreciated.

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