[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 153 (2007), Part 13]
[Senate]
[Page 18119]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




              125TH ANNIVERSARY OF PORTLAND, NORTH DAKOTA

 Mr. CONRAD. Mr. President, I am pleased today to recognize a 
community in North Dakota that will be celebrating its 125th 
anniversary. On July 20 to 22, the residents of Portland will gather to 
celebrate their community's history and founding.
  The rural community of Portland is located in the beautiful and 
serene valley of the Goose River. Like so many rural towns in North 
Dakota, Portland was established by a railroad. The town was named 
Portland because railroad officials considered it the midway point 
between Portland, ME, and Portland, OR. In 1883 it was incorporated as 
a village. The Dakota territory's first insurance company was chartered 
in Portland in 1885.
  Portland has come a long way since its beginnings in the early 1880s. 
The town has built a rich heritage of agriculture but has also grown to 
incorporate technology, manufacturing, and health services. Portland 
has been described by its citizens as the way America is supposed to 
be. The MayPort Community Center offers the chance for recreational 
activities such as ice skating and hockey.
  The community of Portland is the ideal location for its residents to 
grow and prosper together. To celebrate its 125th anniversary, the town 
will hold several golf tournaments, a parade, comedic acts, and a 
street dance.
  Mr. President, I ask the Senate to join me in congratulating 
Portland, ND, and its residents on their first 125 years and in wishing 
them well in the future. By honoring Portland and all other historic 
small towns of North Dakota, we keep the great pioneering frontier 
spirit alive for future generations. It is places such as Portland that 
have helped shape this country into what it is today, which is why this 
fine community is deserving of our recognition.
  Portland has a proud past and a bright future.

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