Gus Bilirakis

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Ms. Patricia Furlong has made to our community through her volunteerism with the Pregnancy & Family Life Center. Ms. Furlong is part of a team of selfless and dedicated women who have worked at the Center in Inverness for several years. Their roles include working each week in the food pantry and clothing room. Last year, 472 clients were served, and more than 65,000 pounds of food was distributed. These critical volunteers also ensure families receive essential items for their infants and young children to include: formula, diapers, pull ups, baby wipes and wash, as well as age specific clothing. In 2024, more than 44,000 diapers and 9500 items of clothing were distributed. These volunteers have a `can do' attitude no matter how large the challenge. They also have tremendous teamwork. They sort through all donations, retain those appropriate for a pregnancy center and then share other serviceable items with community partners. Ms. Furlong also visits the Center each weekend when the facility is closed to check the donation box and bring donated items inside to ensure they reach the intended recipients. When volunteers are united in an important mission, it naturally fosters camaraderie which is great for anyone who works or volunteers at the Center. All of these women maintain a loving demeanor and greet each client with a warm smile and conversation (and sometimes a hug). The Center's clients feel welcomed and cared for because of the lived values of love, respect, compassion, and family centeredness that is regularly displayed by these dedicated volunteers. The benefit to the community is great and the impact far reaching. It is clear that Patricia Furlong has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for her service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Mr. Neil Quinn has made to our community through his work as an exceptional volunteer for Habitat for Humanity of Citrus County for the past five years. In 2024 alone, this retired electrical engineer volunteered nearly 400 hours across our construction sites and ReStores. Mr. Quinn's impact is profoundly felt by the partner families working toward homeownership. On construction sites, he shares his expertise by teaching them essential home building and maintenance skills. His mentorship empowers these families with practical knowledge and fosters a sense of ownership of their future homes. Beyond construction, Mr. Quinn repairs and revitalizes electrical appliances at the organization's ReStores. By increasing the inventory of resellable goods, he directly helps generate funds that enable the construction of more affordable homes in our community. Neil is the epitome of a team player, consistently willing to contribute his time and talents wherever needed. His dedication and positive attitude are respected by fellow volunteers, Habitat staff, and the partner families he supports. Neil Quinn's commitment embodies the spirit of Habitat for Humanity, making a tangible difference in the lives of families striving for safe, stable, and affordable housing in Citrus County. It is clear that Neil Quinn has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for his service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Mr. Mike Phillips has made to our community in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton. In addition to providing countless hours of direct support to neighbors and flood victims, he helped coordinate the collection and distribution of emergency supplies, meals and donated services to help those who needed help. A truly selfless leader, Mr. Phillips was a strong advocate for bringing in government and non-profit resources to aid in the recovery process. It is clear Mike Phillips has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for his service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Merlyn Lewis has made to our community through her work as an exceptional volunteer for Service Dog Alliance, an all- volunteer non-profit, which promotes and supports the rights and responsibilities of service dog teams, businesses, and the community. Merlyn Lewis exemplifies servant leadership by empowering volunteers, the community, and individuals with disabilities to ensure safe and unfettered access for service animal handlers. Volunteering more than 10,000 hours, Ms. Lewis has served as President of the Board and Lead Trainer for the organization. She currently serves on the Executive Board as Secretary/Treasurer. Ms. Lewis and her service dog, Sterling, have traveled throughout Florida as role models of what to expect from a well-trained team. She has assisted individuals with disabilities in becoming better handlers and in understanding how to follow state and federal law, Her training for health care professionals, first responders, government staff, and private businesses about the vital work service animals perform has reduced barriers to access in housing, employment, and places of public accommodation and increased community partnerships to combat the misrepresentation of service animals. Service Dog Alliance achieves its mission because Merlyn Lewis is on the front lines and in the trenches, doing whatever is necessary to ensure the organization and those served have all that is needed to be successful. It is clear that Merlyn Lewis has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for her service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Mr. Mike Lastra has made to our community in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton. In addition to providing countless hours of direct support to neighbors and flood victims, he helped coordinate the collection and distribution of emergency supplies, meals and donated services to help those who needed help. A truly selfless leader, Mr. Lastra was a strong advocate for bringing in government and non-profit resources to aid in the recovery process. It is clear Mike Lastra has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for his service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Mika Rotunda has made through her work with Habitat Tampa Bay Gulfside. Born and raised in Brooksville, Mika Rotunda is a dynamic professional with a background in media and real estate. With years of experience in broadcasting and content creation, Mika has developed a unique ability to connect with her audience, community and customers. Her passion for people and the desire to empower others, translates seamlessly into her real estate career. Combining her media expertise and real estate knowledge, Mika has a broad and unique perspective to the Habitat Board, which she was voted onto in 2024. Habitat Tampa Bay Gulfside has been working to create lasting relationships in Hernando County. Mika has played a key role in making introductions and working alongside our Hernando County Executive Director to provide information and dispel myths about the Habitat mission. Mika has used her social media platform of over 100 thousand followers to help spread Habitat's mission and promote the Habitat program to Hernando County individuals and families. Mika has worked with Habitat's external relations team to create social media videos to promote major events and invite people to apply to the Habitat program. Habitat will celebrate the completion of its first home in Hernando this June. When that happens, Mika will be one of the first in line to congratulate the new homeowner and welcome them to the area. It is clear Mika Rotunda has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for her service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Mercedes Anderson-Brando has made through her volunteerism at Gulf Highlands Elementary School. Mercedes supports the school in so many ways. She is at every School Advisory Council (SAC) meeting, supports all extra-curricular events, and consistently pitches in whenever needed. The students know her and look forward to seeing her around campus. It is clear Mercedes Anderson-Brando has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for her service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Pricilla Cruz-Seado has made to our community through her work with New Beginnings Youth Shelter, which serves homeless kids aged 10-17 who are between foster homes, abandoned, or homeless. The whole team jumps in to take care of the kids that have no one else looking out for them. They teach kids structure, respect, understanding and so much more in a loving environment. The team really cares, and each member is deeply invested in the kids' long-term success. It is clear Pricilla Cruz-Seado has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for her service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Mary Miller has made through her work with Gulf Middle School. Mary has been volunteering for Gulf Middle School since 2016. She has helped with the school's tutoring program, volunteers weekly in the free school store (the Treasure Chest), helped with securing English as a Second Language tutors for Gulf Middle School families, and coordinated a free weekly meal to serve families and the community. Mary has also been a big supporter of the school's annual book fair and has supported its National Junior Honor Society. She jumps in wherever needed and always goes above and beyond. She is kind- hearted and compassionate towards all students and families. She is dependable, hardworking, and efficient. Mary has a great rapport with our students, staff, and other volunteers. It is clear Mary Miller has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for her service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Ms. Marie Bienkowski has made to our community through her volunteerism as part of the Save Crystal River Board of Directors. She has helped forge a path to secure more than $50M in funding to meet the agency's original goal of restoring nearly 100 acres of waterways by the City of Crystal River's 100th Year Anniversary on July 3, 2023. To date, more than 850 new spring vents have been opened, 107 plus acres have been cleaned of 680M plus pounds of lyngbya algae and detrital materials from the riverbeds, and 590,000 plus eelgrass plants have been hand-planted. The native grasses provide a natural healthy habitat for fish, birds, and crabs, and are a source of nutrition for the manatees. Marie's generosity of her time, guidance, and commitment to educate elementary school children, business owners, and State of Florida leadership about the importance of clean water and environmental health, reflects her personal nature of resiliency as a resident of Crystal River. Like so many other residents, she has expenenced the hefty challenges of multiple hurricanes and tornadoes, and she has always come right back to lead the charge to make Florida and our spring systems one of the outstanding gems of the United States, not only for residents but also for the millions of visitors who come here every year to fish and swim with the manatees in Crystal River, the ``home of the manatees.'' In this year of our focus on resiliency, Marie embodies the very essence of resilience, and she is therefore a ``Hero Among Us'' for Save Crystal River. It is clear that Marie Bienkowski has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for her service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Ms. Marlene Law has made to our community through her work over three decades to promote opportunities for youth with the UF/IFAS Extension Citrus County 4-H program. Her tireless efforts have been mostly behind the scenes. Marlene supports the core values of 4-H, to develop citizenship, leadership, responsibility, and life skills in young people through experiential learning programs. She is a strong role model for the youth in our community. As a long-time 4-H volunteer and leader of the Ropin' the Wind 4-H club, she has sought to identify needs in the community, set goals, work in partnership with the 4-H Agent and County Extension office, and advance educational programs for youth. In 1995, with a mission to ``Make the Best Better'', Marlene Law was a founding member of the Citrus County 4-H Foundation. Her actions planned and produced the 1st Citrus Stampede Rodeo to benefit the Citrus County 4-H program, Past Foundation president, Hal Porter recounted ``We had a dream, then . . . to raise $100,000 for our county 4-H program.'' As the Citrus Stampede Rodeo Chairwoman, Marlene Law, has raised over $380,000 for the countywide 4-H youth development program. This year, the 29th Annual Citrus Stampede Rodeo will continue to support youth in our community. Raising money for the local 4-H program is a worthy endeavor, but the true impact of those dollars are the opportunities they open for young people engaged in Citrus County 4-H programs. Marlene's support and advocacy for youth development provides vital resources for school enrichment programs, residential camping programs, adult volunteer training, teen workforce development, civic engagement, and graduating senior and 4-H alumni scholarships. It is clear that Marlene Law has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for her service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Martha Narvaez and Vincent Leandry have made to our community through their volunteer service at the American Red Cross, Mid-Florida Chapter. Every now and then, we encounter volunteers who not only serve with dedication but inspire everyone around them. Martha and Vincent are such a team. Partners in life and in service, this dynamic Army Veteran duo continues to embody the very best of the American Red Cross. After a lifetime of service in the military, they chose to extend that calling with the American Red Cross for the last five years--and we are truly grateful. Every day, they give their time, energy, and hearts to advance the mission of the organization. Whether responding to house fires in the middle of the night, supporting major disaster operations, or assisting at Yellow Ribbon events for deploying service members, their commitment never wavers. They are always the first to raise their hands and often step in before the need is even spoken. Their compassion knows no bounds. Fluent in Spanish, they ensure no one is left out of critical recovery conversations--like when a displaced family in a shelter needed urgent help. A FaceTime call quickly turned into a 60-mile drive to provide in-person support, gifts for the children, and hours of comfort and reassurance. Their actions transformed a moment of isolation into one of connection and healing. In the wake of hurricanes and amid logistical challenges, they've served hundreds of meals, including stepping up at the last minute to support a community feeding event for an elected official. They showed up with no expectation of recognition--just a desire to help. Whether at Moon Lake Park or on a roadside in rural Florida, Martha and Vincent bring warmth and hope wherever they go. Their service touches every corner of the Red Cross: Disaster Action Team (DAT), Disaster Relief Operations (DRO), Service to the Armed Forces (SAF), and countless outreach events. You'll find them at Homeless Veteran Stand-Downs, the Mexican Consulate, VA hospitals, and more. They respond with empathy, uplift fellow volunteers and staff with kind words and hugs, and lead with quiet strength. Team SAF can always rely on them to take initiative, represent the Red Cross with professionalism, and bring their signature warmth to every event. They give so much of themselves and ask for nothing in return. Their dedication, humility, and boundless compassion serve as a beacon for what it truly means to be part of the Red Cross family. Martha and Vincent don't just serve--they show up, wholeheartedly and without hesitation. It is clear Martha Narvaez and Vincent Leandry have made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for their service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Maria Wilkinson has made through her work with the Pasco County Human Services Team. The Pasco County Human Services Team has proven itself to be a cornerstone of resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to the community. Amidst the devastating impacts of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, they emerged as an indispensable force, transforming challenges into triumphs and ensuring no resident was left behind. The team managed and helped coordinate efforts for shelters that housed 485 residents. When Hurricane Milton struck shortly thereafter, the team rose to even greater heights, coordinating shelters for 5,800 individuals and 1,315 animals--an extraordinary feat of operational precision and compassion. Despite personal hardships, including one case manager losing her home while another lost her rental property, the team prioritized the welfare of the community, working tirelessly to ensure safety and stability for all. Post-storm, the team was responsible for helping shelter residents whose homes were no longer safe, find appropriate alternatives for housing. Their dedication shone through in rapid response efforts. In the days immediately following Hurricane Helene, 49 residents received critical assessments and essential resources. After Hurricane Milton, they worked with 225 displaced individuals who remained in shelters, demonstrating their unparalleled ability to adapt and respond under pressure. The team leveraged the Human Services Needs app to streamline disaster case management, supporting 1,351 residents. Their follow-up system, in partnership with other agencies, ensured personalized service for every individual. This innovative approach epitomized their ability to harness technology and partnerships for meaningful impact. Beyond immediate relief, the team worked with individuals and families who would require long-term recovery efforts. For approximately 150 permanently displaced residents, they implemented a housing eligibility process, with the intent of ensuring fair and transparent allocation of resources. By securing placements at facilities like Pasco Hope, the team supported individuals and families along a pathway to rebuild their lives. Between September 28 and October 18, 2024, the team managed an overwhelming volume of calls--1,194 through their direct line and another 1,214 through work phones. Yet every call was met with care, professionalism, and actionable solutions, reflecting the team's deep commitment to being a lifeline for the community. The Pasco County Human Services Team exemplifies what it means to serve with excellence, compassion, and innovation. Their remarkable achievements during Hurricanes Helene and Milton, coupled with their dedication to long- term recovery and cutting-edge approaches to disaster management, have left an indelible mark on Pasco County. It is clear Maria Wilkinson has made a profoundly positive impact on our community through her work as part of the Pasco County Human Services Team, and I am grateful for her service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Kathy Logue has made through her volunteerism at Bay Area Legal Services. After serving in the U.S. Army, Lt. Col. Kathy Logue began her career as an elementary school teacher in Chicago. A lifelong learner, she pursued her legal education at Chicago-Kent College of Law, part of the Illinois Institute of Technology, where she earned her law degree. Kathy was subsequently admitted to the Illinois Bar, practicing law for 39 years before relocating to Florida, where she joined the Florida Bar in 2009 and continued her legal career for an additional 14 years. Kathy has since retired from practicing law but remains active in her donation of time and legal expertise to the community. She is an active member of both the Illinois and Florida bars and remains in the retired reserves of the U.S. Army, ready to serve her country again if needed. Throughout her journey, Kathy has remained deeply committed to education and community service. Drawing on her experiences as a teacher, she has dedicated her retirement years to volunteering and substitute teaching in local schools. Additionally, Kathy has been actively involved with the New Port Richey VA Center, offering her time weekly to support veterans. She also volunteers with the Salvation Army of Pasco County's Domestic Violence Program each week, helping survivors navigate the legal process by reviewing and drafting petitions for Injunctions for Protection at the West Pasco Judicial Center. Kathy acts as a link between these clients in need and Bay Area Legal Services. She provides written referrals and assists in connecting the client with vital legal services and with follow-up to ensure victims are never alone in what can be a daunting process of fleeing abuse and obtaining protections. In addition to her dedication to volunteering with the VA and DV programs, Kathy is highly involved in the West Pasco Bar Association and has put her legal skills to use by participating in the West Pasco Bar Association's ``Ask a Lawyer'' program. In this role, she engaged with the public on law-related questions, providing invaluable support to individuals, families, and businesses. Kathy sponsors a legal aid paralegal membership for the West Pasco Bar Association and has worked to expand membership for legal services staff. Kathy Logue's dedication, compassion, and service to her country, her community, and countless clients are truly inspiring. She is undeniably deserving of recognition for her outstanding pro bono volunteer work. Over the past ten years, in retirement from her full time professional life, Kathy has provided over 400 hours of pro bono service to her community, sometimes dealing with personal health challenges along the way. It is clear Lt. Colonel Kathy Logue has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for her service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Lisa DeGennaro has made through her work with the CARES Senior Clinic. Lisa is the clinic's competent receptionist. She is the first to greet all who call and walk into the clinic, always with a smile. She is eager to assist and direct patients to the right place. The clinic would not run smoothly without her diligent efforts. It is clear Lisa DeGennaro has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for her service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Lori Ventura has made through her work with the CARES Senior Clinic. Lori serves as Healthcare Ambassador for the CARES Senior Health Clinic. Lori helps coordinate the care for 1,200 patients, including frail, disabled, low income & homeless clients. She helps coordinate treatments and community resources to aide in the health and wellbeing of all in the community. She has helped save the lives of countless individuals. It is clear Lori Ventura has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for her service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Mary ``Adams'' Adamczewski has made to our community as a volunteer with People Helping People (PHP) as its Treasurer of the Board of Directors since 2016. Her budgeting and accounting skills alone make her a wonderful addition to PHP, but she brings so much more. Mary's heart for helping those who are hungry is huge. She is at PHP's HELP Center nearly every day it's open, cooking, preparing, and serving food to the thousands of neighbors the organization feeds each year. This woman can make a meal out of typical pantry items that tastes gourmet. In addition to weekdays, you can count on Mary to be at the facility almost every Sunday, along with a loyal team of other volunteers, ensuring those that are unhoused or unable to afford much food receive a wonderful, hot meal. In addition to those who enjoy the sit-down meals on Sunday, she makes sure that two families with a combined total of nearly two dozen children also receive a nutritious and delicious Sunday meal. Because of the length of time she's been with PHP and her deep involvement with PHP's mission, Mary also serves as an ``unofficial'' historian. Mary digs in with whatever needs to be done, even making the weekly run to the Recycling Center with the recyclables accumulated at PHP. And there's more. If a client needs a haircut, Mary brings her electric razor, and in no time, someone has a fresh new look. One of PHP's long-time clients was recently hospitalized. He had no family but he and Mary had a special relationship, and he considered her his ``family''. Mary was the one to visit him in his final days and made sure that he was well taken care of to the end. Another gentleman is not only unhoused, but has Huntington's Disease. Mary assists him with making sure he always has food and other necessities, and takes him to his medical appointments. Her kindness and energy knows no bounds. She is respected by everyone at PHP and wears so many different hats. Mary does all this with the support of her loving family. It is clear Mary ``Adams'' Adamczewski has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for her service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Ms. Lynn White has made to our community in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton. In addition to providing countless hours of direct support to neighbors and flood victims, she helped coordinate the collection and distribution of emergency supplies, meals and donated services to help those who needed help. A truly selfless leader, Ms. White was a strong advocate for bringing in government and non-profit resources to aid in the recovery process. It is clear that Lynn White has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for her service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Kristin Amato has made through her work with the CARES Senior Clinic. Kristin has over 24 years in nursing experience. She has worked in ER department's, home health, orthopedics and will be a nurse practitioner in June 2026. She uses her time and talents to help patients in need. It is clear Kristin Amato has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for her service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Ms. Kristina Arnold has made to our community in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton. In addition to providing countless hours of direct support to neighbors and flood victims, she helped coordinate the collection and distribution of emergency supplies, meals and donated services to help those who needed help. A truly selfless leader, Ms. Arnold was a strong advocate for bringing in government and non-profit resources to aid in the recovery process. It is clear that Kristina Arnold has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for her service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Ms. Kay Hoffland has made to our community in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton. In addition to providing countless hours of direct support to neighbors and flood victims, she helped coordinate the collection and distribution of emergency supplies, meals and donated services to help those who needed help. A truly selfless leader, Ms. Hoffland was a strong advocate for bringing in government and non-profit resources to aid in the recovery process. It is clear that Kay Hoffland has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for her service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Judy Salvador has made through her work with Metropolitan Ministries. Judy has been a dedicated volunteer at Metropolitan Ministries since 2016. Monday and Friday mornings at the Metro Welcome Center are lively and welcoming, thanks to this remarkable woman. She greets both new and returning volunteers with enthusiasm, ensuring newcomers feel comfortable and understand the importance of their roles. Her humor, empathy, and dedication ensure smooth operations across all areas, from kitchen prep to client shopping in the metro market. She welcomes everyone--volunteers, clients, residents, and community members--with warmth, compassion, and genuine joy in service. Judy is always ready to tackle any task that needs attention. Metropolitan Ministries relies heavily on her to keep Volunteer Services running smoothly, not just during the holidays but all year round. She embodies the four key values of Metro's culture, including: Character, Chemistry, Competency, and Calling. It is clear Judy Salvador has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for her service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Lesa Burnham has made through her work with the CARES Senior Clinic. Lesa is a tireless volunteer, eager to assist with all clinic needs. She is quick to get the patients ready to see the doctor, answer phones, and keeps the patient EMR updated. She is an inspirational decorator, creating holiday decor throughout the clinic that lifts patients' spirits. It is clear Lesa Burnham has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for her service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Krystal Martinez has made to our community through her work with New Beginnings Youth Shelter which serves homeless kids aged 10-17 who are between foster homes, abandoned, or homeless. The whole team jumps in to take care of the kids that have no one else looking out for them. They teach kids structure, respect, understanding and so much more in a loving environment. The team really cares and each member is deeply invested in the kids' long-term success. It is clear Krystal Martinez has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for her service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Mr. Dean Lancaster has made as a volunteer with the Hernando County School System. Mr. Lancaster offered his services as an announcer for high school basketball games. Coach Kupcik decided to allow him to announce at an upcoming game and had no idea what to expect. When Mr. Lancaster arrived to announce his first game, he came early, brought all his fancy equipment, and got to work setting up. That night, he blew everyone away and bought a real, college-like feel to the game. He was prepared and professional, enthusiastic and exciting. He brought music, catchphrases, and announcing on the call-- the whole nine yards. All night long people were asking, ``where did this guy come from?'', ``he is amazing!'', ``Can he come to every game?''. Coach Kupcik told him, ``You're hired!'' That day, and every day moving forward, he refused payment for his services. Mr. Lancaster always says it's his way of giving back to the community. Since his ``tryout'', Mr. Lancaster has offered his talents, professionalism, and enthusiasm to every home Boys Basketball game at Springstead High School. Over the years, he has agreed to do the same for every home Varsity Football and Baseball game as well. Because he has been so popular and because he brings so much to the events he is announcing, Mr. Lancaster has also been requested to announce at other big events at Springstead, such as senior nights, their annual cheer competition and during the final matches of the historic Corey Hill Memorial Wrestling Tournament. As an Athletic Director, Coach Kupcik shares that having a consistent announcer locked in is always a plus. It's one less thing to worry about. But having a consistent, amazing, professional- level announcer that transforms a relatively meaningless Tuesday night baseball or basketball game into a must-go-to, college like event for fans and players alike is truly a blessing. Mr. Lancaster is one of a kind, and is now a true part of what Springstead Athletics is, and forever an Eagle. It is clear Dean Lancaster has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for his service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.