[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 92 (Thursday, June 20, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1125]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING ``OLD'' JOE CLARK

                                 ______


                           HON. HAROLD ROGERS

                              of kentucky

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 19, 1996

  Mr. ROGERS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor one of southern 
Kentucky's country music legends, ``Old'' Joe Clark.
  ``Old'' Joe recently celebrated his 50th year of performing at Renfro 
Valley, Kentucky's premier country music venue. He has been making us 
laugh with his unique brand of country humor and skillful banjo-picking 
for the last half century. He is a true treasure of the Commonwealth.
  ``Old'' Joe came to Renfro Valley after entertaining folks in and 
around his home of Johnson City, TN. After sharpening his talents in 
Tennessee, ``Old'' Joe attracted the attention of Renfro Valley's 
founder, John Lair. And, as they say, the rest is history.
  It did not take long for ``Old'' Joe's fame to spread throughout 
southern Kentucky. And, he was soon a part of the national country 
music scene. He appeare at the Grand Ole Opry and performed with some 
the Nation's top country stars.
  ``Old'' Joe Clark talents are legendary at Renfro Valley. For 50 
years, he has set the standard for an entire generation of country 
musicians and comedians. Without a doubt, ``Old'' Joe has left his mark 
on the Renfro Valley community.
  Mr. Speaker, I am very proud to honor ``Old'' Joe Clark on his 50th 
anniversary at Renfro Valley. I know that the people of southern 
Kentucky love Joe and appreciate his lifetime of service to entertain 
us.

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