[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 153 (Wednesday, October 30, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1600]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   COMMEMORATING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FLORIDA SEAFOOD FESTIVAL

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                       HON. STEVE SOUTHERLAND II

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, October 30, 2013

  Mr. SOUTHERLAND. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 
people of Franklin County, Florida, who are celebrating the 50th annual 
Florida Seafood Festival, a two-day event that draws tens of thousands 
of visitors to the historic city of Apalachicola.
   First held in 1914, the Florida Seafood Festival did not become an 
annual tradition until 1963. This non-profit, volunteer-driven event 
celebrates not only the finest seafood in America, but also the 
dedicated men and women of the seafood industry who serve as the 
backbone of Franklin County's economy and rich history.
   This year's milestone celebration comes at a time of both economic 
and ecological hardship for Franklin County's oyster industry. However, 
with all challenges come new opportunities, and I am confident this 
close-knit community will persevere in the face of adversity as it has 
time and again.
   In closing, I congratulate the people of Franklin County for hosting 
the 2013 Florida Seafood Festival and expect a tremendous turnout that 
reflects the support we all have for North Florida's seafood industry 
and the people of Franklin County.

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