[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 137 (Wednesday, November 12, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1550]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     COMMEMORATING THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE JAY PEANUT FESTIVAL

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                            HON. JEFF MILLER

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 12, 2014

  Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to commemorate 
the 25th Anniversary of the Jay Peanut Festival and recognize its 
founders, Gene and Brenda Gabbert and the community of Jay, Florida.
   The Town of Jay, situated in northern Santa Rosa County, Florida 
near the Florida/Alabama line, is home to over 500 residents and the 
annual Jay Peanut Festival.
   A quarter of a century ago, Gene and Brenda Gabbert founded the 
festival in honor of their daughter Melissa, who had lost her battle 
with cancer at the young age of 19. Melissa found great joy in 
frequenting agricultural festivals throughout the Gulf Coast and the 
special sense of community that festivals often bring to life. After 
her passing, the Gabberts started the Jay Peanut Festival to keep 
Melissa's memory alive and bring together the entire Northwest Florida 
community in celebration of the area's deep agricultural history.
   In the 25 years since, the festival has flourished. While the pig 
chase has remained a highlight, what began in 1990 as a one-day event 
with 30-40 vendors is now a two-day event with 230 booths, live 
entertainment, carnival rides, 5k run, and a parade. The staple of the 
festival--the peanut--may attract the tens of thousands of visitors 
from all over; however, to the Town of Jay, the festival is much more 
than that. It's also a celebration of community, that Melissa was so 
fond of, and its members who have helped carry on this proud tradition.
   Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to commemorate the 25-year history of the 
Jay Peanut Festival. My wife Vicki joins me in wishing the Gabberts and 
the Town of Jay all the best for continued success.

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