[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 205 (Wednesday, December 18, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1611]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





              RECOGNIZING CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS HIGH SCHOOL

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                         HON. DONNA E. SHALALA

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, December 18, 2019

  Ms. SHALALA. Madam Speaker, I rise in recognition of Christopher 
Columbus High School, which celebrated its first football state 
championship last week.
  This recent victory is the result of the hard work and determination 
of student-athletes, coaches, parents, and the entire Columbus 
community. This strong character is what helped the Columbus Explorers 
pull off a dramatic victory with a two-point conversion in the final 
seconds of the championship game. This year's state title put Columbus' 
reputation for resilience and hardwork reputation on full display.
  In the state championship game, Columbus was faced with what may have 
been its biggest challenge all season. With little over four minutes 
left, the Explorers were down 20-7. In spite the odds being stacked 
against them and the early celebrations of opposing team, Columbus came 
out on top once again.
  The Explorers overcame obstacle after obstacle. They scored 14 
unanswered points, with the final two points coming with eight seconds 
left to take the lead and win the championship game.
  The state title is reflective of Columbus' success not only as a 
football team, but also as an institution. For decades, Columbus has 
produced illustrious alumni who have contributed to our community, our 
country and the world. This success is only made possible through the 
school's fighting spirit and integrity, which is exactly what the 
football team left on the field for all to see.

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