[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 74 (Tuesday, May 2, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E387]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





 CELEBRATING THE FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF SFJAZZ AND THE RETIREMENT OF 
                       ITS FOUNDER, RANDALL KLINE

                                  _____
                                 

                           HON. NANCY PELOSI

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                          Tuesday, May 2, 2023

  Ms. PELOSI. Mr. Speaker, I rise with overwhelming joy today in 
celebration of the fortieth anniversary of a beloved and iconic 
institution in my home City, SFJAZZ.
  What began as a two-night Jazz in the City festival four decades ago 
has blossomed into one of our community's most cherished cultural 
wonders and a true national treasure. All are in awe of its world-class 
programming: producing more than 450 concerts every year, featuring 
artists from the Bay Area, from across America and from around the 
world. Through its committed focus on outreach and education, including 
the award-winning High School All-Stars initiative, SFJAZZ is also 
helping to foster the next generation of musical excellence.
  Personally, it was my privilege to attend the grand opening of the 
SFJAZZ Center ten years ago--another special anniversary that we 
celebrate this year. This magnificent, state-of-the-art concert hall 
has quickly become our Nation's premier hub for jazz: not only a venue 
to enjoy glorious music, but also a training ground for young musicians 
to study their craft.
  When the COVID pandemic struck, SFJAZZ swiftly pivoted to digital 
programming--lifting spirits by bringing beautiful music directly into 
people's homes, while helping keep our families safe. At the same time, 
through the SFJAZZ 50/50 Fund, the organization helped channel 
donations directly to artists during a difficult moment for the live 
entertainment industry.
  As SFJAZZ marks four decades, San Franciscans--and all Americans--
give thanks for the joy, beauty and vibrancy it continues to bring to 
our lives.
  Mr. Speaker, I also rise today to pay tribute to Randall Kline: the 
visionary leader of SFJAZZ who made so much of its success possible and 
who is stepping down as Executive Artistic Director after an 
extraordinary forty-year career.
  Randall's story is the stuff of legend: first hitch-hiking to San 
Francisco in 1974, then putting down roots by the Bay with just $600 in 
his pocket, a bass and a dream. With a relentless work ethic and an 
inexhaustible imagination, he has transformed SFJAZZ from a community-
based organization into a globally revered jazz powerhouse.
  Our Nation owes him a debt of gratitude for the towering role that he 
has played in preserving and promoting an all-American art form. So, it 
is only fitting that Randall is honored with the SFJAZZ Lifetime 
Achievement Award, as his leadership has left an indelible mark on the 
cultural fabric of our City, our Country and our world.
  On behalf of Randall's many friends in the Bay Area and beyond, we 
salute his four decades of dedicated service to our City and send best 
wishes on this joyful occasion as he prepares for his next adventure.

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