[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 134 (Thursday, September 18, 2014)]
[Senate]
[Page S5856]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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                       RECOGNIZING JEFF GRAPPONE

 Ms. AYOTTE. Mr. President, today I wish to say a few kind 
words about my longtime communications director and friend, Jeff 
Grappone--a native of Concord, NH.
  Jeff has served as my chief spokesman since I ran for the Senate in 
2010. He's traveled with me from Nashua all the way up to Colebrook, 
and from Keene to Portsmouth. He was by my side at the Statehouse when 
I filed my paperwork to become a candidate, and he was there when I won 
the primary and general elections. Jeff was present for my ceremonial 
swearing-in that took place in the Old Senate Chamber, and he then 
immediately got to work establishing my Senate press office.
  Jeff helped me hit the ground running as a first-time candidate and 
as a new Senator. He has provided me with outstanding communications 
counsel, and I've drawn on his considerable experience here on Capitol 
Hill as well as back home in New Hampshire. He's been an invaluable 
adviser as I've gone about my work in the Senate--helping me 
effectively communicate my legislative priorities in Washington and in 
the Granite State.
  Jeff has worked tirelessly in my office. It wasn't unusual for him to 
work into the night until the last vote was called in the Senate, and 
then head up to New Hampshire for a press conference the next morning. 
He has brought energy and enthusiasm to my staff, and he shares my 
strong commitment to serving the people of the Granite State.
  After nearly a decade in politics and on Capitol Hill--on the 
legislative staff of Congressman Charles F. Bass, as Press Secretary to 
Senator John E. Sununu, and as a spokesman for Senator John McCain's 
presidential campaign, Jeff is about to embark on a new chapter in his 
career outside of government. As he makes this transition, I will miss 
his intellect, his expertise, his good humor, and his inherent decency.
  Jeff lives by our State's motto, ``Live Free or Die,'' and he has New 
Hampshire in his blood. He has been a talented and diligent member of 
my staff, and he's a loyal friend. I wish Jeff the very best 
always.

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