[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 37 (Tuesday, March 9, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E373]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[[Page E373]]


                              SUNRAYCE 99

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. MATT SALMON

                               of arizona

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, March 9, 1999

  Mr. SALMON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to sponsor the House version of 
the resolution that will permit the organizers of Sunrayce 99 to 
sponsor a public event, with solar-powered cars, on the Capitol Grounds 
on June 20, 1999, or on such other dates as the speaker of the House of 
Representatives and the Committee on Rules and Administration of the 
Senate may jointly designate, to conduct opening ceremonies for 
Sunrayce 99. Senator Allard has introduced the Senate version (S. Con. 
Res. 13).
  As the Chairman and co-founder of the House Renewable Energy Caucus I 
appreciate the innovation necessary to identify and utilize alternative 
forms of energy. As we move into the 20th Century, one of the critical 
environmental challenges facing us is the need to discover the 
possibilities of sustainable energy development, so that our children, 
and their families will be able to enjoy the clean air and environment 
that is so important to the health of our nation.
  From June 20 to 29, 1999, the world will watch as up to 40 teams 
participate in Sunrayce 99 and demonstrate good-spirited competition 
and innovation at its best. The teams will race through five states, 
from the start in Washington, DC, to the finish at Epcot at Walt Disney 
World Resort near Orlando, FL in the nation's premier solar powered 
vehicle event.
  Sunrayce 99 showcases the imagination, ingenuity and teamwork of 
graduate and undergraduate teams from North America in the development 
of highly efficient vehicles powered solely by a viable, renewable and 
sustainable energy source--the sun. I am proud to note that the 
University of Arizona has registered a team. General Motors, Electronic 
Data Systems along with the U.S. Department of Energy are the sponsors 
of this biennial intercollegiate competition.
  The top three finishing teams will receive trophies and cash awards. 
Scholarship achievement awards will also be granted for technical 
innovation, engineering excellence, artistic talents, teamwork and good 
sportsmanship.
  Sunrayce 99 not only demonstrates the possibilities of sustainable 
energy development, but also the importance of public/private 
partnerships. This approach will allow companies to work hand in hand 
with government in successfully tackling the environmental challenges 
ahead. I applaud the participants of Sunrayce 99--sponsors, applicants, 
universities, and administrators--for making innovation a reality.

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