[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 158 (Tuesday, September 30, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2178]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING MICHAEL W. SMITH

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. MARSHA BLACKBURN

                              of tennessee

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, September 29, 2008

  Mrs. BLACKBURN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to 
join me in honoring and congratulating Michael W. Smith on his rich 25-
year career and innumerable contributions to contemporary Christian 
music. He will be recognized next Sunday, October 12, as the Nashville 
Choir hosts ``A Light for the City 2008''--A 25th Anniversary 
Celebration of Michael W. Smith. With many special guests, including 
Rev. Franklin Graham, Max Lucado, Amy Grant, Bill and Gloria Gaither, 
Jordin Sparks, Wynonna, Ricky Skaggs, Melinda Doolittle, Phil Stacey 
and Michael Tait, the Nashville Choir will pay tribute to Michael W. 
Smith and thank him for his contributions to the Nashville community 
and indeed the entire globe.
  Not only has Michael W. Smith garnered significant accolades as a 
recording artist and song writer, including 5 Platinum and 16 Gold 
certifications, over 15 million sold albums, and several GRAMMYs and 
GMA Dove Awards; he has moreover accomplished outstanding work as a 
citizen, humanitarian, and public servant. In addition to acting as a 
spokesperson for Compassion International and serving as vice chair of 
the President's Council on Service and Civic Participation, he has 
shown commitment to the local Nashville community especially through 
work with New River Fellowship church and the establishment of 
Rocketown, a safe and engaging concert venue, coffeehouse, and skate 
park. Husband to Debbie and father of five, Michael W. Smith has above 
all remained committed to family and his faith.
  On behalf of all who have been inspired by his work, I ask my 
colleagues to join with the Nashville Choir, family, friends, fans, and 
colleagues in the music industry to recognize Michael W. Smith's legacy 
and his music which has touched countless lives.

                          ____________________