[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 146 (2000), Part 11]
[Senate]
[Page 15858]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



                     TRIBUTE TO THE TOWN OF BEDFORD

 Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise today to pay 
tribute to the town of Bedford on its 250th anniversary, an important 
and historic milestone in New Hampshire's history.
  The town was incorporated on May 21, 1750. Once an unsettled 
wilderness located in the heart of New Hampshire, Bedford has grown 
into a booming residential and commercial community. Its close 
proximity to the center of Southern New Hampshire makes it very 
convenient for residents to commute to bigger cities like Manchester 
and Nashua. Bedford is a thriving small town with a strong commitment 
to family and community values, evidenced by a first-rate school system 
and active participation by many residents in civic groups such as the 
Rotary Club and the Lions Club.
  The town has come together to celebrate its anniversary with year-
long events, such as town picnics, exhibits and a parade marking the 
town's official birthday. A 250th anniversary ball is planned as the 
cumulation of the year's events. These celebrations strengthen town 
organizations' staying-power and provide an opportunity for residents 
to congregate and enjoy all the town has to offer. The overwhelming 
number of Bedford residents who attended these events is a testament to 
their commitment to town and civic affairs.
  Slowly but surely, this quiet former farming town has seen tremendous 
commercial growth within the last 50 years. Bedford is now home to many 
small businesses and office parks, but has certainly not lost that 
small-town charm. With 16,500 citizens, it is easy to meet familiar 
faces in passing. Although the town may be steadily expanding its 
collection of businesses, the residents have not let them overwhelm 
their beautiful scenic community.
  Once again, I want to congratulate the town of Bedford on its 250th 
anniversary. Stable and secure communities such as Bedford are 
essentially the backbone of this great nation. It is an honor to serve 
its citizens in the United States Senate.

                          ____________________