Political Quotes

“I want to thank Mr. Carson and Mr. Barletta for bringing this bill to the floor. Mr. Speaker, for the 23rd straight year, I am proud to sponsor this resolution that allows the Greater Washington Soap Box Derby Association to hold its 73rd annual race on the grounds of the United States Capitol on June 14, which, by the way, Mr. Speaker, happens to be my birthday. As Mr. Carson pointed out, and as Mr. Barletta has said, this is a longstanding tradition that brings young people from around the area to the Capitol for a fun and educational achievement. In 1938, Mr. Speaker, Norman Rocca beat 223 other racers to win the inaugural Greater Washington Soap Box Derby, which was held on New Hampshire Avenue. Over the years, thousands of the region's young people have participated in this great race. Dozens of boys and girls, ranging in age from 8 to 17, are divided into three divisions: stock, super stock, and masters. The local winner of each division will qualify to compete with racers from around the world in the All- American Soap Box Derby in Akron, Ohio. America's soap box derbies have been called the ``greatest amateur racing event in the world.'' Every year, they bring young people together with their parents and teach sportsmanship, hard work, and pride of accomplishment, not to mention engineering and the awareness of how you make something that makes a difference.…”