Herb Kohl: “Today, I rise and pay tribute to the Wisconsinites who participated in the 1994 Winter Olympic Games, especially the…”

“Today, I rise and pay tribute to the Wisconsinites who participated in the 1994 Winter Olympic Games, especially the seven who won medals. The seven medalists represented the United States in men's and women's speedskating, men's short-track relay, and snowsculpting. In speedskating, Dan Jansen of Greenfield, and Bonnie Blair of Milwaukee both skated to gold medal finishes. Jansen's world record performance in the men's 1,000m event is the crowning achievement of his career after tragedy and disappointment stood in his way in past Olympic competitions. For Blair, the 1994 games showed her continued dominance over the world of women's speedskating, as she skated to two gold medals. In the men's 5,000m short-track relay, Andy Gabel of Pewaukee and John Coyle of Milwaukee helped pace the U.S. men's team to a silver medal finish. Not to be outdone, the U.S. snowsculpting team came away with a bronze medal behind the talent and skill of Milwaukeeans Bill Hackbarth, Paul Hess, and Craig Yanek. The hard work, dedication and perseverance displayed by all the participants personifies the Olympic spirit. On behalf of all Wisconsinites, as well as the entire nation, we congratulate you, our Olympic champions.”