[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 54 (Friday, May 3, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E709]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       TRIBUTE TO MR. JOHN ELKHAY

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. JAMES R. LANGEVIN

                            of rhode island

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 2, 2002

  Mr. LANGEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the 
achievements of Mr. John Elkhay of Providence, RI. The U.S. Small 
Business Association has recognized Mr. Elkhay for his achievements as 
a chef and restaurateur by awarding him the Rhode Island Small 
Businessperson of the Year award.
  Mr. Elkhay has worked his way to the top in the restaurant business, 
from his beginnings as a dishwasher to his current vantage point as a 
leader among Rhode Island entrepreneurs. His two critically acclaimed 
restaurants, XO Cafe and Ten Prime Steak & Sushi, have been key to the 
revitalization of downtown Providence.
  Mr. Elkhay's determination to be a leader in this field is evident 
from his continuous work ethic and innovation. He began studying the 
culinary arts as a senior in high school. Enrolled in the Johnson and 
Wales College while he finished high school, John quickly proved to his 
teachers and employers that he was capable and creative. His 
experiences in the numerous highly respected kitchens took him all over 
the country, where he was able to hone his skills. After returning to 
Rhode Island Mr. Elkhay opened a chic tapas restaurant with Guy 
Abelson. This venture soon led to several other opportunities, and 
finally to his current ventures. John has been featured in a number of 
national publications including Bon Appetit, Nation's Restaurant News, 
and Gourmet Chef. While he takes these accolades in stride, John plans 
to open four more restaurants in Rhode Island.
  John Elkhay is not only a respected chef and businessman; he is an 
outstanding person whose own hardships have led him to help others. 
John lost his 12 year-old son to cystic fibrosis, and established the 
Ross Elkhay Foundation in his memory. Additionally, his Chefs for CF 
program has raised thousands of dollars in donations for research over 
the years.
  Mr. Speaker, colleagues, I am proud to represent John Elkhay in the 
House of Representatives. Please join me in recognizing this 
outstanding individual whose personal and professional contributions 
have garnered him the Rhode Island Small Businessperson of the Year 
Award.

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