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[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E435]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
IN RECOGNITION OF EASTHAMPTON HIGH SCHOOL'S `WE THE PEOPLE' TEAM
_____
HON. RICHARD E. NEAL
of massachusetts
in the house of representatives
Tuesday, April 9, 2019
Mr. NEAL. Madam Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to
recognize the students and advisors of Easthampton High School's `We
The People' team for their hard work, dedication, and outstanding
achievement. These individuals prevailed over a number of highly
skilled competitors to earn first-place honors in the Massachusetts `We
The People' academic contest for the second year in a row. They have
accordingly earned the distinction of representing the Commonwealth in
the 32nd `We The People' national finals this month in Washington, D.C.
The annual `We The People' tournament is a wonderful opportunity that
brings bright young people together to learn about and debate issues of
great importance in today's world. The students of Easthampton High
School's team not only displayed exceptional commitment, ability, and
character in preparing for and winning the statewide competition this
winter, but they have also worked even harder this spring as they have
looked forward to competing in the national competition. They have been
preparing to testify at mock congressional hearings, demonstrate their
knowledge of the U.S. Constitution, issue statements on a variety of
topics related to our country's political and historical heritage, and
field complex questions from a panel of expert judges. There is no
doubt in my mind that they will find this whole experience uniquely
valuable for years to come.
This year's Easthampton High School `We The People' team have been
led by their teachers Kelley Brown and Taylor Dadmun who have provided
crucial guidance and instrumental mentorship. The outstanding work
performed by this group is a testament to the value of quality teachers
in the Massachusetts public school system. The victorious students are
Kerissa Bilski, Joseph Brough, Kunden Chumego, Samuel Colenback,
Benjamin Dameworth, Sophia Fiordalice, Corinne Gawle, Joseph Hwang,
Madeline Kleeberg, Kassidy Marowitz, Abigail McMahon, Jaquelline Perez,
Madison Rinker, Madison Rodriguez, Trevor Waldron, Hanna Wauczinski,
Christopher Williams, and Mohamed Zabir. The team's student coaches
include Lucas Patton, Vinnie Catalano, and Fernando Tenesaca.
Madam Speaker, I would like to once again acknowledge Easthampton
High School's `We The People' academic team for their superb
achievements. Strong civic education is the foundation of our democracy
and these inspiring students have exemplified the finest qualities of
informed citizenship. I am proud of this group, and I wish them all the
best in their upcoming national competition as well as all their other
future endeavors.
____________________