In 1986 Reginald Howes' "Welcome to Jay" sign was destroyed during the International Paper Company strike. It is believed that the sign was created in 1986 and was the first sign welcoming people to the town of Jay.

Friends and family had warned Howes that it may not be a good idea to make the sign because of the approaching strike, but he ignored their warnings. Shortly after the sign was erected it was destroyed by employees in the 1986/1987 strike.

Howes attended the Boston School of Art shortly after WWII and had created a variety of signs including signs for local businesses.