[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 27 (Wednesday, March 9, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E400]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     HONORING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE TOWN OF SOUTH PALM BEACH

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                         HON. E. CLAY SHAW, JR.

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, March 9, 2005

  Mr. SHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 50th anniversary 
of the founding of the Town of South Palm Beach, Florida. Since 1992, I 
have had the distinct pleasure to represent the residents of this 
lovely community, and would like to share with you some of the town's 
attributes and history.
  Located in Palm Beach County, the Town of South Palm Beach is nestled 
in one of Florida's many barrier islands. Rich in natural beauty, South 
Palm Beach shares its eastern border with the Atlantic Ocean, and its 
western border with the Florida Intracoastal Waterway.
  The town's colorful history dates back to 1948, when two Finnish 
brothers from New York, Amos and Anton Askila, settled in the area. 
Enamored with South Florida's beauty, the Askila brothers set out for 
Tallahassee in 1955 to obtain a charter for the town. At the time, 
there were only 6 full time residents, including the Askila brothers, 
Robert Coletti, James Sloan and Mr. and Mrs. George Woods. The Askila 
brothers successfully incorporated the town during their 1955 trip to 
Tallahassee and, that same year, Mr. George Woods was elected as South 
Palm Beach's first mayor.
  Today, reflecting on 50 years of history since the town's 
incorporation, it is clear that future generations of South Floridians 
have much for which to be thankful. Over the years, South Palm Beach's 
residents have worked diligently to preserve its residential character, 
friendly atmosphere and overall high quality of life. I also know that 
South Palm Beach's nearly 3,000 residents are working hard every day to 
carry on this tradition, ensuring that South Palm Beach continues to 
serve as a model community for other towns throughout Florida.
  On behalf of Florida's 22nd Congressional District, in honor of the 
town's 50th anniversary celebration, I wish to recognize and commend 
the Town of South Palm Beach for its longstanding commitment to 
excellence in South Florida.

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