[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026)]
[House]
[Page H4698]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING JEFFERSON HOLLAND

  (Ms. ELFRETH asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
  Ms. ELFRETH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of a friend, 
Jefferson Holland, poet laureate of Annapolis and a modern-day 
Chesapeake troubadour.
  Anyone fortunate enough to know Jeff knows that he is a pillar of our 
community who has dedicated his life to capturing and sharing the 
essence of the Chesapeake Bay through song, story, and poetry.
  Leading up to America's 250th anniversary, Jeff spearheaded Poets 
Afloat, a unique celebration featuring original poetry by locals, 
inspired by the rich history, characters, and spirit of Annapolis and 
Anne Arundel County.
  Mr. Speaker, I will leave you with Jeff's own words that capture 
Annapolis' role in Nation's history--words I couldn't put to paper but 
words I hope this entire Chamber can take to heart: Let Annapolis show 
the world how democracy is done with justice, not with vengeance; with 
the truth, not outright lies; with good sense and consensus.

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