[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 148 (Friday, November 15, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2069]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY OF JAY, FLORIDA

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                            HON. JEFF MILLER

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, November 14, 2002

  Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate 
the residents of Jay, Florida.
  On the 30th of November, Jay will celebrate its centennial 
anniversary. Named after its first postmaster, Mr. J.T. Nowling, this 
small, Northwest Florida town near the Florida/Alabama border was 
established one hundred years ago primarily as a farming community. 
Even today, many residents of this Santa Rosa County community follow 
in their ancestors' agrarian footsteps.
  In 1940, a small group of farmers embarked on a venture to create a 
livestock market in the area. Sales brought revenues of up to $1 
million by 1950 and the industry continues to thrive today. Jay boasts 
about their peanut buying and warehouse facility as well as Florida's 
only two cotton gins, making this one of Florida's finest and most 
progressive agricultural towns.
  In the early 1970's, the discovery of oil changed the life of this 
small community. The Jay oil field has approximately 67 oil wells that 
have provided profits of more than $400 million. The revenues generated 
from Jay's entrepreneurial spirit have funded a new city hall, fire 
department and recreation complex.
  In spite of its brisk development, Jay remains steadfast in its 
roots, distinctive in its identity, and carries on all that America 
cherishes about its small towns. Much like my nearby hometown of 
Chumuckla, these 700 residents live in a place where life centers on 
church, work and family. It is a place where the people are loving, 
friendly and neighbors help neighbors in times of need.
  On behalf of the United States Congress, I would like to congratulate 
the people of Jay, Florida on their centennial and wish them the best 
as they continue to move and prosper through the 21st century.s




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