Chellie Pingree

Agricultural Management Assistance Act of 2026

in committee

Stop ICE Intimidation Act of 2026

in committee

PAPERS Act of 2026

in committee

“Ms. PINGREE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the leadership of Mary Rich as the Deputy Chief of New Gloucester Rescue. Across more than 32 years of dedicated public service, Mary has played a vital role in the success of the department and the safety of New Gloucester residents. Mary began her career as an Advanced Emergency Medical Technician, rising over time to Deputy Chief. She has overseen tremendous change during her tenure--including the merging of the Fire and Rescue Departments, the launch of a new ambulance transport service, and the expansion of per diem staffing to provide 24/7 EMS coverage. The growth of the department would not have been possible without Mary's steadfast determination and tireless advocacy on behalf of the Rescue team and broader New Gloucester community. In 2025, she was honored with the New Gloucester Chief's Award of Emergency Medical Services for her leadership, and her family has proudly carried on her legacy of public service. Her daughter Molly Fitzgerald and her son-in-law Hale Fitzgerald have also served on the Rescue team. Mary's years of contributions to the department have left New Gloucester a safer community, better equipped to respond to and prevent emergencies. I commend Mary for an outstanding career dedicated to protecting public safety. I wish her the best of luck in her next chapter. ____________________”

2026-05-20 · Government Reform

“Ms. PINGREE. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to speak in celebration of a group of workers and artists who entertain live audiences in every state across the country: the theatrical chorus. I am pleased to recognize 2025 as ``A Chorus Year.'' From Oklahoma! to Hamilton, some of the greatest art to come out of the United States has been musical theatre, and a staple of this art form is the chorus. The chorus has always been more than a group of singers and dancers filling up a stage. It is an integral part of theatrical storytelling, as well as a major player in labor history. The historic actors strike of 1919 that established union protections for live performers succeeded in large part because of the women and men of the chorus who formed their own union and walked off Broadway stages in large numbers to join the fight. And 2025 is a particularly auspicious year to celebrate the chorus. This year marks the 70th anniversary of the merger between Chorus Equity Association and Actors' Equity Association into the Equity that exists today, protecting the rights of actors and stage managers in live theatre across the U.S. I want to recognize not only the talent of chorus performers, but their great skilled labor and tireless work ethic. They make it all look easy, but their ongoing contribution to American culture and a healthy entertainment industry is born of fierce commitment and dedication to their craft. They exemplify the best of America: many people working as individuals to build something amazing together. ____________________”

2025-08-12 · Labor

“Ms. PINGREE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a remarkable organization in my state that has been providing essential services and advocacy for individuals with vision impairment and blindness for 120 years. The Iris Network is one of Maine's oldest and most respected nonprofit agencies, known for its [[Page E756]] steadfast commitment to accessibility, independence, and empowerment. Founded in 1905 as the Maine Institution for the Blind, with the support of Helen Keller, the organization initially focused on teaching trades to help blind and visually impaired individuals enter the workforce. Over time, its mission has evolved to offer comprehensive training programs that meet people where they are--equipping them with the skills and confidence to live independently. These programs cover a wide range of daily life skills, from kitchen safety to technology use. The Iris Network offers services at its Portland facility and travels throughout the state to support individuals in their homes. Further, they offer holistic guidance to assist organizations businesses, and employers in making their environments welcoming and equitable. Their dedication to accessibility can be found in every aspect of their work. In addition to its training programs, The Iris Network operates a thriving residential community. In 2006, they opened Iris Park Apartments, a Level I assisted living facility that now serves over thirty residents. Iris Park offers a safe, supportive, and empowering environment where technology is thoughtfully integrated, appliances are adapted with sensory guides, and community-building activities--like braille bingo--foster connection and independence. The Iris Network exemplifies the positive impact that comes from uplifting others. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to The Iris Network for 120 years of dedicated service and for improving the lives of countless Mainers. Their leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment to accessibility deserve our deepest admiration and commendation. ____________________”

2025-08-08 · Civil Rights