Special Olympics in Pennsylvania

Floor Speech

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Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, earlier this week, I was honored to host Christa Mereen in Washington. Christa has competed in the Special Olympics as an athlete for 15 years. Recently, more than 300 athletes participated in the winter games in Pennsylvania, with 135 coaches and more than 1,000 volunteers.

Pennsylvania's Special Olympics includes many athletes from Pennsylvania's Fifth Congressional District, including Potter County athlete Denise Menderler. Denise is highly accomplished, having earned 110 medals, including many gold honors. Denise gives back to her community as a peer advocate and a Potter County Human Services Advisory Board member. Denise's story is just like so many who participate in the Special Olympics who rise above challenges and excel in sports, from skiing to figure skating, speed skating, and snow shoeing.

Mr. Speaker, on March 5 and 6, the skills of our Special Olympians will again be on display at the State Floor Hockey Tournament at Bald Eagle Area High School in my home district. I look forward to seeing them compete in person.

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