[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 86 (Wednesday, May 20, 2026)]
[House]
[Pages H3664-H3665]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            CHAMPION OF THE WEEK: AKRON MENTAL HEALTH COURT

  (Mrs. SYKES asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
  Mrs. SYKES. Mr. Speaker, May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time 
for us to stop and consider how mental health impacts and effects 
everyone in our communities. For that reason, I am going to recognize 
the Akron Municipal Mental Health Court as Ohio's 13th Congressional 
District's Champion of the Week.
  This week, the court is celebrating its 25th anniversary. Founded by 
Judge Elinore Marsh Stormer in response to the growing number of people 
with serious mental illnesses entering into the criminal justice 
system, the Akron Municipal Mental Health Court became the first of its 
kind in Ohio, and one of the first in the Nation.

[[Page H3665]]

  Judge Annalisa Williams has carried on Judge Stormer's vision and has 
presided over the court since 2005.
  What began as an innovative idea has become a model for communities 
across our State and Nation. It functions under a simple but powerful 
truth: Treatment and support can save lives.
  Since 2001, countless people have reclaimed stability, restored 
relationships, and built brighter futures for themselves and their 
families.
  The Akron Municipal Mental Health Court exemplifies the very best of 
Ohio's 13th Congressional District and reminds us why our community is 
proudly known as the birthplace of champions.
  I had the opportunity earlier this week to join them for their 25th 
celebration and recognize them in person on behalf of our district.
  Again, I want to say: Thank you and congratulations. Here is to 25 
more years of serving our community with justice and compassion.

                          ____________________