[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 101 (Tuesday, June 16, 2026)]
[Senate]
[Page S2816]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                            MORNING BUSINESS

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                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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                        TRIBUTE TO EMELIA AJAVON

 Ms. HASSAN. Mr. President, I am honored to recognize Emelia 
Ajavon of Grantham as June's Granite Stater of the Month for creating 
the Chess Club 4 Kids in New Hampshire's Upper Valley.
  After developing a love of mathematics and strategy at just 9 years 
old, Emelia attended a local chess club and discovered that there were 
few opportunities for kids her age to learn and play chess with their 
peers. Emelia, in true Granite State spirit, rolled up her sleeves and 
established the Chess Club 4 Kids at the Howe Library in Hanover.
  Working with library staff, local schools, and community members, 
Emelia helped transform a simple idea into a thriving program. What 
began with just four participants has grown into a vibrant community 
that now welcomes an average 20 to 30 students each meeting and has 
served more than 100 families throughout the Upper Valley.
  Through Chess Club 4 Kids, students from multiple communities across 
New Hampshire come together to learn, compete, and build friendships. 
By creating separate learning opportunities for beginners and more 
experienced players, Emelia's club ensures that every participant feels 
welcomed, challenged, and supported. For many students, Emelia's club 
has become a place not only to strengthen critical thinking and 
strategic skills, but also to find a sense of belonging among peers who 
share similar interests.
  As Emelia prepares to enter high school, she is already working to 
pass leadership of her club to younger students so it can continue to 
thrive for years to come. Her commitment to ensuring the Chess Club 4 
Kids endures reflects the same vision and dedication that inspired its 
creation. Emelia's initiative and generosity embody the very best of 
the New Hampshire, which is why I am proud to name her June's Granite 
Stater of the Month.

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