[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 153 (2007), Part 12]
[Senate]
[Page 16957]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




             125TH ANNIVERSARY OF PETERSBURG, NORTH DAKOTA

 Mr. CONRAD. Mr. President, today I wish to recognize a 
community in North Dakota that will be celebrating its 125th 
anniversary. On July 13-15, the residents of Petersburg will gather to 
celebrate their community's history and founding.
  Petersburg is a vibrant community in the northeastern part of North 
Dakota, not far from Grand Forks Air Force Base. Petersburg holds an 
important place in North Dakota's history. Founded by Levi Peterson and 
Martin N. Johnson, the name of the community was determined by a coin 
toss. Peterson won the coin toss and declared the city name Petersburg 
in honor of his birthplace in Petersborg, Norway.
  Today, Petersburg is a farming community with an assortment of clubs. 
Some of these organizations like the Sons of Norway, Red River Valley 
Scandinavian Singers Association, and the Norwegian Singers and 
Association of America are keeping the region's Scandinavian culture 
alive. Petersburg also takes much pride in its curling club.
  For those who call Petersburg home, it is a comfortable place to 
live, work, and play. The community has planned an exciting 125th 
anniversary weekend. There will be a parade, food, bands, dancing, a 
craft show, flea market, magicians, games, an all school reunion, and 
much more.
  I ask the U.S. Senate to join in me congratulating Petersburg, ND, 
and its residents on their first 125 years and wishing them well in the 
future. By honoring Petersburg and all the other historic small towns 
of North Dakota, we keep the great pioneering frontier spirit alive for 
future generations. It is places such as Petersburg that have helped to 
shape this country into what it is today, which is why this fine 
community is deserving of our recognition.
  Petersburg has a proud past and a bright future.

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