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[Pages S1429-S1430]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
TRIBUTE TO ERNEST MATT HOUSE
Mr. McCONNELL. Mr. President, later this week, Leadership Tri-County
from Knox, Whitley, and Laurel Counties in my home State will present
one of its highest honors: the Leader of the Year award. I was
delighted to learn this year's title will be given to Ernest Matt
House, a lifelong resident of London, KY, and a remarkable example of
entrepreneurship. I would like to take a few moments today to pay
tribute to Ernest Matt and his many accomplishments in Kentucky.
From an early age, Ernest Matt's talents were on full display. In
high
[[Page S1430]]
school, he excelled both in the classroom and on the field, earning 14
varsity letters and a place in the Kentucky High School Athletic
Association's Hall of Fame, but these achievements, of course, were
just the beginning. Ernest Matt received a full scholarship to play
football at Eastern Kentucky University. There, he was EKU's starting
quarterback for 3 years and lettered all 4. His notable time in the
Colonel's uniform merited inclusion into the school's athletic hall of
fame, and he still ranks among the best quarterbacks in its history.
After his graduation, Ernest Matt returned to Laurel County and began
working at his family's grocery store. Named for both of his
grandfathers, he had big shoes to fill in the family business, but it
didn't take long for Ernest Matt to learn the competitive business and
set his sights on the future. Although a lot has changed in the grocery
business and in the community, Ernest Matt holds onto the tradition of
personal service that keeps bringing loyal customers back to the store.
Over the next years, his continued entrepreneurial success earned him
distinction both in the local community and across the Nation.
Leadership Tri-County was established more than three decades ago to
foster and develop emerging local leaders. Its programs in Kentucky
invest in the men and women who have spent their lives making their
communities a better place to live. This award is given each year to an
individual who has contributed to the area's growth and development,
and Ernest Matt clearly fits the bill. Through his business success and
service on local, regional, and State board and commissions, Ernest
Matt has quite a legacy of achievement.
A man of deep faith, Ernest Matt credits his good works both to
Christ and to his loving family, especially his wife Kim. I am sure
she, along with his children and grandchildren, are quite proud of him.
Kentucky has been made better because of Ernest Matt's many
contributions, and I would like to congratulate him for being named the
2019 Leader of the Year. I encourage my Senate colleagues to join me in
recognizing his work.
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