HONORING TAYLA TOLLEFSON

HONORING TAYLA TOLLEFSON

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 41 (Wednesday, March 4, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 41 (Wednesday, March 4, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E187] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING TAYLA TOLLEFSON ______ HON. MICHAEL BAUMGARTNER of washington in the house of representatives Wednesday, March 4, 2026 Mr. BAUMGARTNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate Tayla Tollefson, the Outreach Coordinator in my district office, who was crowned Miss Spokane on Sunday, February 15, 2026. Tayla is a senior at Eastern Washington University, one of the great institutions serving students across our region and expanding opportunity throughout Eastern Washington, where she is pursuing a double major in Political Science, Pre-Law, and International Affairs, along with a minor in Psychology. After graduation, she will attend Gonzaga University School of Law, continuing the tradition of excellence and community commitment that has made Gonzaga a point of pride for so many families in Eastern Washington. Her academic dedication and leadership exemplify the hard work, talent, and community spirit that define the very best of Washington's 5th District. The Miss Spokane Scholarship Organization is a proud local preliminary to the Miss America Organization, providing scholarships to young women while promoting academic achievement, leadership, and community engagement. Tayla's own words capture the heart of that mission. She said, ``As Miss Spokane, I am deeply honored to represent a community that believes in opportunity, growth, and the power of young women to lead and inspire change.'' Tayla has a clear vision for building new community partnerships, expanding opportunities, and empowering other young women to pursue their goals with confidence and purpose. Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating Tayla--our new Miss Spokane--and an outstanding representative of Eastern Washington. ____________________