Recognizing Denise Smith for Receiving the Carl E. Wehde Award

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Mr. FOSTER. Mr Speaker, I rise today to recognize Denise Smith for receiving the esteemed Carl E. Wehde Award. This award, presented in memory of the late Mayor Carl E. Wehde, acknowledges individuals who embody the spirit of service, leadership, and dedication to improving the quality of life in the greater Crystal Lake area.

As the organization chair for the Downtown Crystal Lake Association, Denise plays a vital role in promoting the city's downtown area. She is also an active volunteer with numerous local charities, including St. Thomas Catholic Church, the Jake Keitner Memorial Blood Drive, the Family Health Partnership Clinic, and Girls on the Run.

Denise's passion for community involvement extends to her coordination of four premier races in the area. Three of these races, the Crystal Lake Aquathon, Crystal Lake Half Marathon, and McHenry County Santa Run, are dedicated to supporting charitable causes. The McHenry County Patriot Run benefits Veterans Path to Hope and the Veterans Assistance Commission.

In addition to her community service, Denise is an adjunct instructor at McHenry County College in the Physical Therapist and Assistant Program. She also owns a business in Crystal Lake, which she established in 2015 with the support of the Crystal Lake Chamber of Commerce, the Downtown Crystal Lake Association, and the broader community.

Denise's commitment to her community extends to her role as a recently elected representative on the Crystal Lake City Council. She is also a graduate of the Leadership Greater McHenry County organization, demonstrating her dedication to the region's well-being.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to represent the community of Crystal Lake and I ask my colleagues to join me in acknowledging Denise Smith for her selfless service to the Crystal Lake community.

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