[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 77 (Thursday, May 8, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E407]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING THE CRYSTAL LAKE STRIKERS FOR RECEIVING THE CARL E. WEHDE 
                                 AWARD

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. BILL FOSTER

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 8, 2025

  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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