Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life and legacy of Gainesville's native son, Mr. Tom Petty. Thomas Earl Petty was born on October 20, 1950, and, over a career that spanned five decades, collected 28 top 10 hits, the most of all time. But his contribution cannot be measured in hits or awards. He wrote America's soundtrack. Tom Petty's story sounds familiar. He grew up in a small town, struggled, persisted, and then succeeded--a true American Dream story. But it is not what he did; it is how he did it that strikes us. It is the honesty, wit, and sentimentality that made his music special. Every hit Tom Petty crafted became an anthem, each song a score to the memorable moments of our lives. American life would be much diminished without his work. Jefferson and Madison wrote our system. Twain wrote our story that described Early American folklore. Petty wrote our songs. The songbook of America is bigger and brighter because of him. Rest in peace as you continue ``Runnin' Down a Dream.'' ____________________”