[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 91 (Thursday, June 12, 2014)]
[House]
[Page H5322]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  JOLIET PUBLIC LIBRARY STAR WARS DAY

  (Mr. FOSTER asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. FOSTER. Madam Speaker, as a scientist, it is not often that I 
come to the floor to speak out on works of science fiction, but I rise 
today to recognize the Fifth Annual Star Wars Day, hosted by the Joliet 
Public Library on Saturday, June 7, 2014.
  The event not only brings the community together into the historic 
and welcoming streets of downtown Joliet, but also promotes literacy, 
science, technology, engineering, and math in a fun and exciting 
atmosphere that captivates young minds.
  Thanks to the library's Star Wars Day, no Jedi mind tricks are needed 
to get children to read over the summer. In its 5 years, Star Wars Day 
has grown to over 7,000 attendees, thanks to the hard work of many 
people.
  And as the Star Wars parade marched proudly down Ottawa Street, with 
Imperial Storm Troopers, Jedi Knights, and Ewoks in full costume, I 
would like to especially recognize the Sand People who, of course, 
march single file to hide their numbers.
  Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing 
the Joliet Public Library for their efforts to promote library 
services, literacy, and STEM education with their Fifth Annual Star 
Wars Day.

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