[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 113 (Monday, July 16, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1526]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   TRIBUTE TO RICHARD ``DICK'' SMITH

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. ELEANOR HOLMES NORTON

                      of the district of columbia

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, July 16, 2007

  Ms. NORTON. Madam Speaker, today I recognize the achievements of one 
of my constituents, Richard ``Dick'' Smith, who has generously 
contributed to the preservation and continuance of jazz music and 
culture. With deepest honor, I am proud to present this tribute to Mr. 
Smith, a contributor of our American culture.
  For the past 8 years, Mr. Smith has diligently worked as music 
coordinator for Jazz Night located at a Southwest Washington church. 
The mission of Jazz Night is to present, preserve, document, and 
perpetuate the original art form of jazz as it has been practiced for 
over 75 years. Jazz Night provides a venue for local jazz legends and 
contemporary musicians throughout the D.C. Metropolitan area to perform 
for people of all ages, experiences and backgrounds.
  Mr. Smith dedicates his life to jazz, and his involvement and 
participation in such programs as Jazz Night reflects his sincerity and 
devotion to his cause. In collaboration with Jazz Night Mr. Smith works 
to provide outreach by presenting jazz musicians and hosting jazz 
performances in community centers, senior citizen facilities and 
nursing homes. Music education is also provided for young people 
through a program designed to develop and nurture emerging musicians. 
This program serves often neglected sectors of our community by 
supporting and developing the youth. By doing this Mr. Smith hopes to 
erase as much of the negativity and violence that threatens many 
communities.
  Furthermore, Mr. Smith wishes to bridge the gap between the youth and 
the jazz tradition by recognizing the youth as a vital part of our jazz 
community, and by exposing them to music other than hip hop which often 
saturates their environment.
  Mr. Smith has tirelessly and unselfishly devoted his life to the 
conservation of jazz. He is one of the founding members of Lettum Play, 
an organization formed in the 1950s that gave musicians a venue to 
perform. Mr. Smith serves as a mentor to many emerging musicians in the 
Washington area. Without the incessant efforts of Mr. Smith, D.C. jazz 
as we know it would cease to exist.
  In addition to being a vocalist, the former Washington Redskin is 
truly a legend in the D.C. area. His mission, to ensure that the 
history of jazz in Washington, DC is preserved for generations to come, 
is commendable. As a performer, Mr. Smith has had the privilege to 
perform with such greats as Shirley Murdock, and notable jazz musicians 
like the late Keter Betts, Buck Hill and the late Ronnie Wells. For 
more than 5 years, Mr. Smith was a featured male vocalist for the East 
Coast Jazz Festival.
  Mr. Smith has spent years enriching the cultural and musical life of 
District residents. I am pleased to join the Washington area in 
recognizing Mr. Smith's service and contributions to our community as 
he celebrates his recent birthday.

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