[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 193 (Wednesday, December 6, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2297]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    TRIBUTE TO THE LATE PAUL CSONKA

                                 ______


                         HON. E. CLAY SHAW, JR.

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, December 6, 1995

  Mr. SHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of a great 
Floridian, Paul Csonka, who passed away this last Friday at the age of 
90. Paul was a distinctive individual who led a remarkably full life. 
His life centered around his love for music and his desire to enrich 
the lives of those around him with his knowledge.
  One of his early professional achievements was cofounding the 
Salzburg Opera Festival in pre-War II Austria. He was actively involved 
in this project until the Nazi regime took over his homeland. With 
nothing but his love of music and the clothes on his back, he fled to 
Cuba in 1938. There, Paul was able to continue his cultural endeavors, 
and share his fervor with the people of Cuba.
  Once again, he was forced to leave all of his worldly possessions 
behind as he fled Cuba after Fidel Castro took over. But it was his art 
that truly mattered, and this is what he brought with him to south 
Florida. After settling in Palm Beach, Paul ushered in a period of 
increased cultural awareness. He served as the creative director of the 
Civic Opera of the Palm Beaches which eventually evolved into the Palm 
Beach Opera. The opera thrived under his direction as he singlehandedly 
defined the opera scene in Palm Beach. After leaving the Palm Beach 
Opera in 1983, his presence in the cultural community persisted. He 
continued working with music students and produced a series of music 
programs at a variety of retirement communities. He received a honorary 
degree from New York University as a tribute to his contribution to the 
music world.
  While he was renowned for his musical talents, he will be remembered 
most for his character and humanity. His experiences and personality 
made him larger than life and his charisma was infectious. Mr. Speaker, 
I ask my colleagues to join me in remembering the life of Paul Csonka.

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