Recognizing Former Chino Mayor Dennis R. Yates

Floor Speech

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Mrs. TORRES of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Mayor Dennis R. Yates and his 24 years of public service and commitment to the City of Chino. He was also an honorable Vietnam War veteran, serving in the Air Force from 1966 to 1970 and receiving the Air Force Commendation Medal for his valiant service.

Dennis Yates was elected to the Chino City Council in 1992. Throughout his distinguished career, Mayor Yates was instrumental in shaping Chino's growth and development. His leadership saw the establishment of the Chaffey College Community Campus and Information Technology Center, the renovation of Downtown Chino, the construction of low-cost senior housing, and the construction of the Carolyn Owens Community Center.

Additionally, Mayor Yates was dedicated to advocating for youth programs. He was integral in the creation of the Chino Youth Museum, a lasting tribute to his belief in fostering educational opportunities for children. He also spent decades as a volunteer and mentor with Chino Pop Warner football, where the Yates Field at Ayala Park stands in his honor, named after him in recognition of his 28 years of service to the program. Mayor Yates' unwavering dedication to his community was honored with Chino's highest accolade, the prestigious Spirit of Achievement Award in 2019.

Sadly, our community is now in mourning. This September, Mayor Yates passed away at the age of 79. I offer my deepest condolences to his family.

For his outstanding accomplishments, it is my honor to recognize Mayor Dennis R. Yates. His years of civic service and commitment to the city and the people of Chino are worthy of the highest commendation. He will be missed.

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