[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 4 (Thursday, January 7, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E16]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRIBUTE TO EMILY ANN ROBERTS

                                  _____
                                 

                        HON. JOHN J. DUNCAN, JR.

                              of tennessee

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, January 7, 2016

  Mr. DUNCAN of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, my District spans a large area 
of East Tennessee, including parts of the Smoky Mountains in the heart 
of Appalachia.
  This region has a rich history of country music.
  Recently, one of my constituents, Emily Ann Roberts, rose to stardom 
on the national stage after placing second on the NBC television show 
The Voice.
  Emily wowed judges during her audition with a version of Lee Ann 
Womack's ``I Hope You Dance,'' earning her the admiration of show host 
and singer Blake Shelton.
  From there, she spent months competing each week with dozens of other 
contestants.
  During the show's run, Emily even made the iTunes Top 10 several 
times and climbed to 21 on the country Billboard chart for her 
rendition of The Judds' song ``Why Not Me.''
  I have had the privilege over the years to get to know Dolly Parton. 
Emily was very excited when Dolly made an appearance on the show to 
help coach her.
  It was certainly a favorite moment for me and East Tennessee viewers.
  Emily told the Knoxville News Sentinel, ``That's such a once in a 
lifetime thing. I've grown up surrounded by her influence . . . when 
she hugged me, she said `I love my little hometown girl' and then she 
leaned back and she said `I'm so proud of you.' ''
  During the show's finale, Emily stood live in front of millions of 
viewers and sang with Ricky Skaggs. She was a symbol of East Tennessee 
graciousness when she hugged her fellow competitor after the results 
were announced.
  Mr. Speaker, I have no doubt we will hear Emily's beautiful voice for 
many years to come, and she will find continued success in music.
  I call her inspirational journey to the attention of my colleagues 
and other readers in hopes that it inspires many more young people to 
reach for the stars.

                          ____________________