[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 163 (Thursday, October 27, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1952-E1953]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           HONORING TED WELCH

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. MARSHA BLACKBURN

                              of tennessee

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 27, 2011

  Mrs. BLACKBURN. Mr. Speaker, the true greatness of our state and 
country lies in the creativity, integrity, and passion of its people, 
and we are fortunate to be surrounded by mighty examples of dedication 
to leadership, service, and support of the arts. I rise today to honor 
Ted Welch as he receives the Applause Award. Given each year to those 
who devote their time, talents, and treasures to the performing arts 
and arts education in Middle Tennessee, Ted Welch joins Tim McGraw as 
this year's deserved recipients.

[[Page E1953]]

  Engaged in process of democracy and faithful to the causes of his 
calling, Ted Welch can be found working with various political 
organizations, the foundation of the Schermerhorn Symphony Center, or 
the Tennessee Chamber of Commerce. Throughout his years of public 
service, Welch remained a key figure in TPAC's past. His allegiance to 
his community is notable and remains part of what makes Middle 
Tennessee one of the best places to call ``home.''
  A successful arts program is one of the markers of a successful 
community, and I am thankful for all those who remain devoted to the 
Tennessee Performing Arts Center and its Education Programs. Through 
music, theater, ballet, and art, TPAC provides elevated experiences to 
Middle Tennessee patrons. I rise today to honor Ted Welch for his 
loyalty to not only the arts in his community, but his community as a 
whole. I ask my colleagues to join with me, his wife Colleen, and his 
children and grandchildren, in honoring Ted Welch for supporting for 
the betterment of his neighbors.

                          ____________________