[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 122 (Monday, July 17, 2023)]
[House]
[Page H3616]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 UNWAVERING DEDICATION OF THE DEADHEADS

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from 
North Carolina (Mr. Nickel) for 5 minutes.
  Mr. NICKEL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate and pay tribute 
to the Grateful Dead. Last night, the Dead and Company closed out their 
final act in San Francisco, and while this marks the end of an era, it 
also gives us an opportunity to reflect on the immense impact they have 
had on generations of fans.
  Jerry Garcia said it best when he said: ``Maybe we are just one of 
the last adventures in America,'' and for those of us who are fans who 
follow the Dead, they truly were an amazing American adventure.
  For over five decades, their unique blend of rock, folk, and 
improvisation transcended boundaries inspiring countless artists and 
enchanting millions of dedicated fans.
  In a world often divided, the Grateful Dead reminds us that music has 
the power to bridge divides and bring people together. Their music 
served as a beacon of hope, an escape, and a testament to the power of 
artistic expression.
  Through their music, the Grateful Dead taught us the value of 
community, compassion, and the beauty of living in the moment. As we 
celebrate the Grateful Dead, we also pay tribute to the late Jerry 
Garcia and all the band members who graced the stage with their 
exceptional talents.
  Let's also acknowledge the unwavering dedication of the Deadheads, 
the devoted fans who traveled far and wide to be part of the Grateful 
Dead experience. Their unwavering support and enthusiasm nurtured a 
unique bond between the band and its audience, making each concert 
totally unique. There was never a concert that was the same as the 
last.
  As we celebrate Dead and Company's final performance last night, 
let's remember that their music and spirit continue to live on in the 
hearts of all those that they touched. Their journey may have reached 
its final destination, but their melodies resonate across time, 
reminding us of the enduring power of music to inspire, uplift, and to 
bring us together.
  Madam Speaker, I like people who like the Grateful Dead, and whether 
in the Halls of Congress or back home in North Carolina, I will always 
be thankful for the memories they gave us, the music they shared, and 
the profound impact they had on the lives of everyone in this country.

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