Order.

I'm going to ask the Vice Mayor Pro Tim Peck to please preside.

The chair recognizes Councilmember Huffman for a proclamation to recognize Evie Lascotis for her work with Checkmate for Girls.

Thank you.

I'm excited to introduce you to Evie today.

She's making huge strides in the chess world for children and girls.

And actually, right now, Evie is ranked number 17 in the nation for girls age 17.

And so I'm proud to be able to present this proclamation to you and all your hard work.

Whereas Evi Lasgaris is a student at St.

John's School, founder of the nonprofit organization, Checkmate for Kids, and a dedicated chess player.

And whereas during COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Evie, then 11 years old and unable to compete in chess tournaments in person, turned a challenge into an opportunity by sharing her passion for chess with children and underserved communities through virtual instruction and later through engaging in in-person programs.

And whereas for the past five years, through Checkmate for Kids, Evie has provided free chess education to children across Houston by leading workshops, camps, and mentorship programs that promote confidence, critical thinking, academic resilience, and leadership, while also mentoring students to become chess teachers and coaches and encouraging greater participation among girls in the game.

And whereas as the only girl actively competing in chess tournaments at her school, Evie's become a strong advocate for gender equity and chess, helping create greater encouragement, community, and competitive opportunities for girls in a traditionally male-dominated environment and organizing the girls' checkmate tournament in Houston.

And whereas Evie's contributions to the chess community have been recognized by the U.S.

Chess Federation, local Houston radio stations, and regional publications, reflecting her leadership, excellence, and commitment to expanding access to the game, and whereas on May 23rd, 2026, as the school year concludes and summer chess programs begin, the city of Houston proudly recognizes Evie for her dedication to youth empowerment, educational opportunity, gender equity, and commends her efforts to inspire and empower young girls in competitive chess throughout Houston.

Councilmember Huffman, thank you for this opportunity.

I've got two grandsons, 10 and 12.

I'll expose them to your teachings, but you'll have a lot of work to do.

Family did not introduce me to it, so I still have a lot to learn, and I look forward to following your career.

Councilmember Cayman would like to address Evy.

Councilmember Huffman and Mayor, thank you all so much uh for spotlighting this, and I see I think you have some very proud family members in the audience, so uh really want to recognize just I'm sure you have the whole village around you, but that you are standing out on your own as a leader, and Councilmember Huffman, your staff was just sharing.

I think you're doing something pretty cool this summer.

Uh where are you going?

Oh, that's rapper training.

Summer.

Yep.

Um, so I decided to apply to various summer programs, and in July, I will be doing astronomy research at Yale University.

So she'll be at Yale working with astrophysicists, which is absolutely incredible.

And Mayor, I know you and I didn't have the chance to grow up with public education in chess, but one of my favorite programs that the city of Houston now does with our parks department is with some of our parks employees, they actually teach chess in these free programs after school to children in the community.

And I'm teaching my son who's five, but I have a hunch that you could take on pretty much anyone in the city at this point.

So congratulations.

Thank you very much.

Congratulations to you, yes, next, the chair recognizes councilmember Cayman for a proclamation to recognize the Polichek family for their contributions to the city of Houston.

Well done.

Good afternoon, everyone.

Today I have the special honor of recognizing a family that has made a lasting imprint on our city, the Polychek family, and today we have Abe and Jack with us.

Through their work in the construction real estate industries, they have quite literally helped build Houston's future, including right here at City Hall.

They've done so with integrity and a deep commitment to our communities and our city.

They have shown a dedication to expanding pathways for women and underrepresented groups, opening doors that have historically been closed and paving the way, of course, for future generations.

Has been equally hands-on, sharing resources, volunteer hours, and lending their expertise.

And Jack has served on the board of the Houston Jewish Federation and is a lifetime ambassador for Texas Children's Hospital.

And other members of their family, including their wives, Karen and Faye, have demonstrated the same unwavering dedication.

They don't just support the Houston Jewish, not only Jewish community, but the Houston community.

So it is my privilege to present this proclamation, whereas the Polichek family has hauled called Houston home for more than a quarter of a century, with four generations now rooted in the city and actively contributing to its growth and vitality.

They have helped build a stronger Houston through decades of work supporting the development of high-quality housing, strengthening the city's infrastructure, and contributing to economic opportunity and workforce development across the region.

The family has played an important role in shaping our city's environment by promoting industry excellence, advancing workforce diversity, and beyond their economic contributions, they have demonstrated a deep commitment to Houston's civic life through their years of service, philanthropy, and leadership.

Supporting causes ranging from education and youth mentorship to community development.

As long-standing members of Houston's Jewish community, the Polichek family has actively supported our local synagogues, schools, and nonprofit organizations, serving residents of all faiths and backgrounds throughout the Greater Houston area, guided by the values of faith, family, and service.

The Polychek family continues to give back generously to the city they proudly call home.

Thank you, Councilor Cayman, and uh great opportunity to recognize a family that helps make Houston a great city.

Our inclusion, our diversity.

I met you as contractors for the city of Houston.

You were actually working when I came into the building.

So we met, and you gave me the history of the Harvey recovery and the impact it had on the city uh facilities.

But through that introduction, we became family friends, and your inclusion of me and my family and your faith in your community is meant so much and gives me strength and the opportunity to say thank you.

Uh we're certainly making a difference, and I know the best is yet to come, so thank you.

Stay active, spread your influence across this great city.

Therefore, I, John Whitmore, mayor of the city of Houston hereby proclaim May 13, 2026, is a Polychek family day in the city of Houston.

Congratulations.

I know you're about to say a few words, but please relay our gratitude as well to Aaron and the rest of the family.