[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 157 (2011), Part 7]
[House]
[Page 9927]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                  THE 375TH ANNIVERSARY OF PROVIDENCE

  (Mr. CICILLINE asked and was given permission to address the House 
for 1 minute.)
  Mr. CICILLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 375th 
anniversary of the founding of the city of Providence, Rhode Island's 
magnificent capital city.
  Providence, fondly known as the creative capital, the Renaissance 
city and the beehive of industry, has embodied American values since 
its founding in 1636. When Roger Williams founded the city of 
Providence, he could not have known what it would become: the city, 
built upon Roger Williams' tradition of diversity, welcoming immigrants 
from around the world into vibrant urban neighborhoods.
  Having served for 8 years as mayor of this great city, I am aware of 
its well-earned reputation as the arts and culture center of New 
England. Providence has been recognized as one of the coolest cities in 
America, one of the 25 best cities for arts and culture and one of the 
100 best cities for young people--to name just a few accolades. It has 
also been recognized by the U.S. Conference of Mayors for its 
innovative after-school programs, its world-class arts and 
entertainment and its restoration of city rivers, the creation of 
downtown warfront parks and spectacular historic preservation.
  Three hundred seventy-five years after its founding, Providence is, 
without question, one of America's greatest cities, and it is a true 
honor to commemorate its founding.

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