Recognizing the Crystal Lake Strikers for Receiving the Carl E. Wehde Award

Floor Speech

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Mr. FOSTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Crystal Lake Strikers for receiving the Carl E. Wehde Award. This award honors the late Carl E. Wehde and celebrates outstanding contributions that enhance the quality of life for the people of Crystal Lake.

The Crystal Lake Strikers are a drumline that seamlessly integrates the arts and education. They perform year-round and offer a wide range of programs in percussion, color guard, and other performing arts disciplines. Their mission is twofold: to provide high-quality entertainment to the community and to build confidence in students. By expanding upon lessons taught in local schools, the Strikers meet the educational needs of Crystal Lake, offering percussion experiences for children at all grade levels through six distinct groups.

In recognition of their impact, the Strikers were previously honored with the Illinois Park and Recreation Association's Outstanding Program and Special Event Award for the creation of the Kingpins drumline, an educational program designed specifically for children with special needs.

The Strikers' commitment to serving the Crystal Lake community extends beyond the classroom. They actively support aspiring performers through college scholarships, fundraisers, and by providing a platform for young talent in the perfomning arts.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to represent the Crystal Lake Strikers, whose contributions to the arts and education have had a profound and lasting impact on the city. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Strikers on receiving this well-deserved award and for continuing to inspire the next generation of performers.

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