[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 80 (Tuesday, May 12, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E427]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING ELIZA ALDRIDGE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JACK BERGMAN

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 12, 2026

  Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Eliza Aldridge, a 
senior at Leeland Public School, for being named the 2026 Michigan 
Poetry Out Loud State Champion. This outstanding achievement reflects 
not only Eliza's dedication and talent, but also the strength of 
educational opportunities available to students across Northern 
Michigan.
  Poetry Out Loud is a nationally recognized program that encourages 
students from across the country to engage with poetry through 
memorization and performance. The competition begins at the local level 
in classrooms and communities, with winners advancing to state and 
ultimately national competition. Now in its 21st year, over 3,000 
students and 77 teachers participated across Michigan.
  Eliza distinguished herself from more than 16 finalists from across 
the state during the competition at Central Michigan University. She 
displayed exceptional poise, depth of knowledge, and appreciation for 
the richness of literature through her impressive recitations of 
``Chicago'' by Carl Sandburg, ``Introduction'' by Alice Duer Miller, 
and ``A Lady'' by Amy Lowell. Her success is also a testament to the 
important role educators and mentors play in shaping the next 
generation. I further recognize the efforts of Michigan Humanities, the 
Michigan Arts and Culture Council, and all partners who make programs 
like Poetry Out Loud possible.
  Mr. Speaker, let us all join in recognizing Eliza Aldridge for being 
named the 2026 Michigan Poetry Out Loud State Champion. I am confident 
she will continue to exemplify hard work, determination, and excellence 
which define our Northern Michigan communities, and I wish her the very 
best in her future endeavors.

                          ____________________