[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 155 (2009), Part 9]
[Senate]
[Page 11713]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                         TRIBUTE TO MATT GIRAUD

 Ms. STABENOW. Mr. President, today I pay tribute, on behalf of 
myself and Senator Levin, to Matt Giraud of Kalamazoo, MI.
  Each week on ``American Idol,'' Matt sang his heart out and inspired 
many throughout Michigan. Early on, the judges recognized his 
incredible talent. Despite nearly being eliminated in the early stages 
of the competition, Matt rebounded with grace, confidence, and poise. 
His songs were a moving reminder of the toughness and resilience of our 
State.
  Matt was born and raised in Michigan. He went to high school in 
Ypsilanti and graduated from Western Michigan University. Before he 
went on ``American Idol,'', he performed at a dueling piano bar in 
Kalamazoo. And on the show, he never forgot his roots.
  He got the opportunity to work with Smokey Robinson, the ``King of 
Motown,'' during the show's Motown episode. His rendition of ``Let's 
Get it On'' deeply impressed Robinson, the show's judges, and the 
audience.
  When he was faced with elimination in April, the judges, for the 
first time in the show's history, intervened to save a contestant. He 
came back strong the next week, singing ``Stayin' Alive.'' His 
enthusiasm in spite of adversity was a real inspiration to his fans 
across Michigan.
  After his elimination, Matt remained graceful and thanked his fans 
back home for all of their support.
  On behalf of myself and Senator Levin, and all the people of the 
great State of Michigan, we want to return the favor. We want to thank 
Matt for reaching for the stars, for pushing himself to the limit, and 
for showing America Michigan's creative and resilient spirit.

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