Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 100th anniversary of the first Native American in the Winter Olympics and fellow Yooper, Clarence ``Taffy'' Abel. Taffy was born in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, on May 28, 1900, and was a member of the Sault Tribe of the Chippewa Indians. Following his childhood years, he joined the U.S. National Hockey Team in the first Winter Olympics in 1924. From there, he was selected by his fellow athletes to carry the American flag during the opening ceremonies and helped the U.S. win a Silver Medal. Taffy went on to lead a successful professional career in the NHL with the New York Rangers and Chicago Blackhawks, resulting in two Stanley Cups, and was greatly respected by many of his peers. His accomplishments significantly advanced international hockey as an institution by tearing down many sport and cultural barriers. Mr. Speaker, I encourage my colleagues to join me in recognizing this historic anniversary and the legacy of Clarence ``Taffy'' Abel. ____________________”