Hank Johnson: “I would like to, first of all, thank my good friend from Maryland, Representative Steny Hoyer, for introducing this…”

“I would like to, first of all, thank my good friend from Maryland, Representative Steny Hoyer, for introducing this resolution on behalf of the entire Washington regional delegation. The Greater Washington Soap Box Derby is an annual competitive event that encourages boys and girls, ages 9 through 16, to construct and race their own soapbox vehicles. This Capitol Hill event has become a great tradition in Washington, D.C., in our metropolitan area over the last 20 years. It provides a terrific opportunity for children to appreciate the workmanship necessary to build the vehicles and enjoy the thrill of competition. The Greater Washington Soap Box Derby organizers will work with the Architect of the Capitol and the Capitol Police to ensure the appropriate rules and regulations are in place and that the event remains free to the public. I support this resolution, and I urge my colleagues to vote for this legislation. You know, the Washington Soap Box Derby was an event that was being held during the times that I was here in Washington, D.C., growing up. I was born and raised here in Washington, D.C. I left at the age of 17 to come to Georgia. When I got to Georgia, I fell in love with Georgia; and I have been there for the last 47 years or so, and it has been a good run for me.…”