The publication is reproduced in full below:
HONORING OLYMPIAN JAKE VEDDER
______
HON. ELISSA SLOTKIN
of michigan
in the house of representatives
Friday, February 25, 2022
Ms. SLOTKIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Jake Vedder, a young man of exceptional character and talent who valiantly represented his home town of Pinckney, Michigan and Team USA at the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing, China.
At the Olympics, Vedder finished sixth out of 32 competitors in the individual snowboard race, and was first among the four Americans competing. This 23-year-old phenom was also named to one of the two United States tandems for the inaugural mixed team snowboard cross event, where he and his partner made it to the quarterfinals.
Unlike many snowboarders, Jake wasn't born in the mountains and didn't grow up in a resort town. He's from Pinckney, population 2300, and he began his snowsports career at the age of two on the small but beloved ski hills in the neighboring town that were made with leftover material from the construction of the interstate.
He was a kid with a dream, a family that supported it, and a community that nurtured it. And as his star has risen, from winning the state championship as a 10th grader, to winning a gold medal in the Youth Olympics at age 18, to competing on the world's biggest athletic stage at age 23, he's never forgotten where he comes from.
Jake is known for spending whatever free time he has dishing out encouragement to younger athletes, giving tips on techniques, handing out gear, and just being present to offer support. In fact, just hours after returning home from the Olympics, Jake was back at Mt. Brighton where it all began for him, cheering on high school snowboarders who were competing in the state meet.
No matter how high he jumps, how fast he races, or how far he travels, Jake clearly remains grounded. He is tethered by his hometown values, anchored by humility, and rooted in kindness. In an era where so many seek instant celebrity or viral fame, Jake's modest spirit and good nature are almost as impressive as his athletic accomplishments.
On and off the slopes, he is a leader and a role model who has made Pinckney so proud. I have no doubt that whatever the future holds for him, he will conquer it with the tenacity, discipline, and humanity that have already taken him so far. It is my great honor to inscribe his accomplishments in the United States House of Representatives.
____________________
SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 168, No. 35
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