[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 173 (Thursday, November 21, 2024)]
[House]
[Page H6171]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      RECOGNIZING THOMAS VIOLANTE

  (Ms. STEVENS asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
  Ms. STEVENS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the honorable 
life of Thomas Violante, an incredible businessowner from Royal Oak, 
Michigan, who inspired many through his pursuit of the American Dream 
and service to others.
  Mr. Violante was born in 1929 to a working-class family. His father 
ran a small market, and he gained a passion for supporting his 
community through entrepreneurship. This passion solidified in 1951 
when Thomas and his wife, Janet, purchased a small specialty store for 
just a pack of cigarettes and six-pack of beer. It would become the 
Holiday Market of Royal Oak.
  Thomas Violante's business was more than just a grocery store, 
though. It was the embodiment of his values. He empowered his employees 
to be creative, to work hard, and to achieve their dreams.
  Mr. Violante passed away on his 95th birthday last month. Beyond his 
role as a businessowner, he was a proud father, grandfather, great 
grandfather, veteran, and philanthropist.
  He left an incredible mark on Michigan's 11th District, and I ask my 
colleagues to join me in honoring him.

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