Floor SpeechCeremonial2026-01-12

HONORING THE FRIENDS OF THE CHICAGO RIVER FOR WINNING THE THIESS INTERNATIONAL RIVER PRIZE

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On 2026-01-12, Representative Mike Quigley (D-IL-5) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE FRIENDS OF THE CHICAGO RIVER FOR WINNING THE THIESS INTERNATIONAL RIVER PRIZE" in the House. The speech addressed the environment.

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HONORING THE FRIENDS OF THE CHICAGO RIVER FOR WINNING THE THIESS INTERNATIONAL RIVER PRIZE

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 8 (Monday, January 12, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 8 (Monday, January 12, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E28] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE FRIENDS OF THE CHICAGO RIVER FOR WINNING THE THIESS INTERNATIONAL RIVER PRIZE _____ HON. MIKE QUIGLEY of illinois in the house of representatives Monday, January 12, 2026 Mr. QUIGLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to join the International River Foundation in honoring the Friends of the Chicago River, the 2025 recipient of the Thiess International River Prize. The Thiess International River Prize, established in 1999, is the world's most esteemed award for river restoration and management, honoring trailblazing organizations that advance lasting ecological, social, and economic benefits worldwide. This award speaks to the tireless contributions of the Friends of the Chicago River to environmental stewardship, river restoration, climate resilience, and public service here in Cook County. Founded in 1979, Friends of the Chicago River is the only organization exclusively dedicated to the restoration and protection of the entire 156-mile Chicago-Calumet River system. Under the leadership of Executive Director Margaret Frisbie and a dedicated staff, the Friends of the Chicago River lead bold policy reforms, habitat restoration, and public engagement programs that have transformed the river from an overlooked industrial waterway into a thriving urban ecosystem. More than 60,000 people including 20,000 youth annually have joined efforts of the Friends of the Chicago River through education, outreach, and hands-on stewardship, while advancing policy initiatives that improve water quality, protect biodiversity, and strengthen climate resilience across the Chicago-Calumet watershed. The recognition of Friends of the Chicago River with the 2025 Thiess International River Prize underscores the emergence of our County as a global leader in urban river restoration and affirms the organization's pioneering role in shaping a future where rivers are valued as vital natural, social, and climate-sustaining wonders. Mr. Speaker, please join me and all of my colleagues in congratulating the Friends of the Chicago River on receiving the 2025 Thiess International River Prize and thanking them for their continued work for the Chicago River. ____________________

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HONORING THE FRIENDS OF THE CHICAGO RIVER FOR WINNING THE THIESS INTERNATIONAL RIVER PRIZE Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 8 (Monday, January 12, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 8 (Monday, January 12, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E28] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE FRIENDS OF THE CHICAGO RIVER FOR WINNING THE THIESS INTERNATIONAL RIVER PRIZE _____ HON. MIKE QUIGLEY of illinois in the house of representatives Monday, January 12, 2026 Mr. QUIGLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to join the International River Foundation in honoring the Friends of the Chicago River, the 2025 recipient of the Thiess International River Prize. The Thiess International River Prize, established in 1999, is the world's most esteemed award for river restoration and management, honoring trailblazing organizations that advance lasting ecological, social, and economic benefits worldwide. This award speaks to the tireless contributions of the Friends of the Chicago River to environmental stewardship, river restoration, climate resilience, and public service here in Cook County. Founded in 1979, Friends of the Chicago River is the only organization exclusively dedicated to the restoration and protection of the entire 156-mile Chicago-Calumet River system. Under the leadership of Executive Director Margaret Frisbie and a dedicated staff, the Friends of the Chicago River lead bold policy reforms, habitat restoration, and public engagement programs that have transformed the river from an overlooked industrial waterway into a thriving urban ecosystem. More than 60,000 people including 20,000 youth annually have joined efforts of the Friends of the Chicago River through education, outreach, and hands-on stewardship, while advancing policy initiatives that improve water quality, protect biodiversity, and strengthen climate resilience across the Chicago-Calumet watershed. The recognition of Friends of the Chicago River with the 2025 Thiess International River Prize underscores the emergence of our County as a global leader in urban river restoration and affirms the organization's pioneering role in shaping a future where rivers are valued as vital natural, social, and climate-sustaining wonders. Mr. Speaker, please join me and all of my colleagues in congratulating the Friends of the Chicago River on receiving the 2025 Thiess International River Prize and thanking them for their continued work for the Chicago River. ____________________