[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 192 (Monday, December 12, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1253]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 HONORING THE RETIREMENT OF CARL CANNON

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. DARIN LaHOOD

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, December 12, 2022

  Mr. LaHOOD. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor Carl Cannon for his two 
decades of public service with the Peoria Park District and his 
continued efforts with ELITE Community Outreach. Carl founded ELITE 
Community Outreach in 2005 with the goal of keeping local kids out of 
the criminal justice system. Since that time, ELITE Community Outreach 
has mentored more than 1,600 children and expanded services including 
elementary, job training, and mentoring programs.
  Carl is known throughout central Illinois as one of Peoria's 
tremendous mentors and educators. Under his leadership, ELITE programs 
have resulted in a 63 percent reduction in disciplinary referrals and a 
67 percent improvement in GPA among students in the ELITE program. The 
Re-entry program is responsible for providing job skills to more than 
120+ previously incarcerated individuals.
  I am grateful for Carl's dedication to the Peoria community and his 
tireless efforts towards improving the lives of students and children 
across the city. The lessons taught by Carl will continue to spread 
hope, empowerment, and positivity in the Peoria community. I appreciate 
our friendship and, I wish Carl continued success in all his future 
endeavors.

                          ____________________