[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 77 (Thursday, May 9, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E565]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





  COMMENDING STUDENTS AT MURRAY MIDDLE SCHOOL FOR WORKING TO ADDRESS 
                          WATER QUALITY ISSUES

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                           HON. BRIAN J. MAST

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 9, 2019

  Mr. MAST. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a great program 
that is promoting civic engagement in Florida and across the country. 
The YMCA's Junior Youth In Government Program is a model legislative 
forum where students learn to write bills, as well as develop critical 
debate and leadership skills. In Martin County, the Junior Youth In 
Government Program started at Murray Middle School, and now all middle 
schools in Martin County have successful programs.
  I want to especially recognize four students who dedicated their time 
in this program to addressing the water quality issues plaguing our 
community. Emma Mauri, Jasper Millette, KJ Thompson and Donovan Soars 
all recognized the pressing issues caused by polluted water and harmful 
algal blooms.
  These students researched the issues thoroughly, proposed policy 
changes and successfully got their bills passed. They exemplify the 
kinds of future leaders we need in our government because they 
understand that protecting our environment is also essential to 
defending human health and strengthening our economy.
  Madam Speaker, I want to congratulate Emma, Jasper, KJ and Donovan on 
their success, and I also hope these programs will continue to expand 
to give even more students the opportunity to learn more about how 
citizens can participate in our government.

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