[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 138 (Tuesday, September 29, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2395-E2396]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          TRIBUTE TO THE CITY OF JONESBORO'S 150TH ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MARION BERRY

                              of arkansas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 29, 2009

  Mr. BERRY. Madam Speaker, I rise here today to pay tribute to the 
City of Jonesboro on the 150th anniversary of its establishment. I 
stand to recognize this milestone in the City of Jonesboro's history 
and reflect on how far this community has progressed.
  The City of Jonesboro is located in Craighead County, which was 
created in 1859. Despite the opposition of State Senator Thomas 
Craighead, the Arkansas Senate created the new county from parts of 
Greene, Mississippi, and Poinsett Counties. In an effort of goodwill, 
State Senator William Jones, who represented St. Francis and Poinsett 
Counties and was a proponent of the bill, named the new county after 
Senator Craighead. In return, once the county seat of Jonesboro was 
established that same year, it was named in honor of Senator Jones.
  In 1860, historical records indicate Jonesboro had a population of 
50. Currently,

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the city is a bustling community approaching 60,000 people and has 
grown to become one of the strongest economic centers in the state. 
Jonesboro is known for award winning school districts, Arkansas State 
University, outstanding medical centers, and a regional destination for 
arts and entertainment. Jonesboro is an outstanding community to me and 
I am honored to represent all of the wonderful people who call 
Jonesboro their home.
  Over the past 150 years Jonesboro has seen many changes but one thing 
remains the same--the people of this city, throughout good times and 
bad, have always come together to cherish, celebrate and support one 
another. This is what makes the community unique and it is their key to 
success. I am certain the City of Jonesboro has a bright future and 
will continue to be the cornerstone for prosperity in our state.

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