[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 107 (Wednesday, September 13, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1453]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   TRIBUTE TO FAIRHOPE MAYOR JIM NIX

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. SONNY CALLAHAN

                               of alabama

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 12, 2000

  Mr. CALLAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a fine 
gentleman, an outstanding public servant and a friend for more years 
than I can count, Mayor James P. Nix, of the city of Fairhope, Alabama.
  As many of my colleagues know, Fairhope is one of the best-kept 
secrets in America. Situated along scenic Mobile Bay, Fairhope has a 
captivating charm and beauty that few communities--anywhere--can rival.
  Moreover, because of the outstanding leadership provided by Mayor Nix 
over the past 30-plus years, Fairhope is one of the best managed cities 
in the entire United States.
  This month, Jim's tenure as Mayor comes to an end. Despite pleas from 
hundreds of townspeople, he decided to not seek reelection in the 
recent municipal elections. For the first time in more than 32 years, 
Jim Nix's name was not on the ballot.
  However, if anyone has deserved a rest from the call of duty, it is 
Mayor Nix. First elected to a 4-year term on the city council, Mayor 
Nix has presided over what is, without question, the 28 most prosperous 
years in the history of Fairhope.
  While it is true that Baldwin County as a whole has experienced a 
tremendous amount of growth during the past several decades, Fairhope 
has certainly been a major part of this change. Under Jim Nix's 
leadership, Fairhope has become an important part of south Alabama's 
economic and cultural base. In addition, Fairhope draws tens of 
thousands of tourists each year to numerous festivals and shows. Quite 
frankly, this exposure has helped put the national spotlight on 
Fairhope, earning for it a positive reputation. Fairhope is, without 
question, a shining example of the best Alabama has to offer.
  In addition to his numerous official duties, Mayor Nix has been 
actively involved in several professional and civic organizations and 
has served as president of both the Alabama League of Municipalities 
and the Baldwin County Mayor's Association. He is currently serving on 
the boards for several area banks and is a trustee for the University 
of South Alabama.
  In the midst of his significant professional and civic involvement, 
Mayor Nix also found time to be a devoted husband, father and 
grandfather. Married to the former Anne Delorme Peele, Jim and Anne Nix 
are the proud parents of three, and the proud grandparents of nine. 
Speaking of Anne, I would be remiss if I did not salute her as well. 
She leaves behind a gracious, lasting legacy as a true ambassador for 
Fairhope in her role as First Lady.
  While Mayor Nix has certainly earned his retirement following so many 
years of dedicated service, he will certainly be missed by the many 
friends and colleagues he has made during his years in the city 
government.
  On a personal note, while I will no longer have the privilege of 
working with Jim and Anne professionally, I look forward to the 
continuation of our friendship in the years to come.
  Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the entire First Congressional District, I 
would like to express my appreciation to Mayor Jim Nix and my 
congratulations on his retirement.

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