Gus Bilirakis

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Danielle Bierman 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 call--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 Hurricane 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 Danielle Bierman has made a profoundly positive impact on our community with his 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 David Cruz made to our community through his voluateerism with the Knights of Columbus. When Hurricane Beryl hit Texas, Operation Barbeque Relief sent David to Texas. While there, he organized 21 Knights in six days to make 7,500 meals a day. These meals were fed to relief workers and victims of the hurricane. David is the Disaster preparedness Coordinator for the Knights for the Dioceses of St. Petersburg which encompasses Pasco, Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Hernando counties. After Hurricane Milton, David was assigned to accompany and work with a Medical Crew from Ohio. Together, they treated over 400 patients providing medical assistance to those in need. The team also worked with Fresh Start for Pasco to feed shut-ins in East Pasco for Thanksgiving. David has worked on bringing together many of the spiritual groups and civic organizations within the community to help hurricane victims. Thanks to these efforts, Our Lady Queen of Peace served 12,000 families during the six weeks after the hurricanes. David still works with Fresh Start for Pasco, Endeavors, and Pinellas Emergency Operations Center to help victims of disasters. Most recently, his volunteerism brought David to muck out homes where the water has finally receded. It is clear David Cruz 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. I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Casey ``KC'' Gabelli 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, Casey helped coordinate the collection and distribution of emergency supplies, meals and donated services to help those who needed help. A truly selfless leader, Casey was a strong advocate for bringing in government and non- profit resources to aid in the recovery process. It is clear that Casey ``KC'' Gabelli has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for Casey's 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 Casey Thieryung has made to our community as a volunteer for Brooksville Main Street. Casey embodies the spirit of community service and leadership that makes Brooksville a special place. As the dedicated owner of the Red Mule Pub, a beloved local establishment, Casey has created more than just a restaurant--he has built a gathering place where residents feel at home. However, his contributions to the community extend far beyond his business. Through tireless volunteer efforts, active participation in civic organizations, and a deep commitment to public service, Casey has left a lasting impact on Brooksville and its people. A true public servant, Casey served as a City Council member for the City of Brooksville, where he worked diligently to improve the quality of life for residents. His time on the Council was marked by his advocacy for local businesses, support for community development projects, and dedication to preserving the town's historic charm. He was always accessible, listening to the concerns of citizens and striving to make decisions that benefited the entire community. Beyond his official role in government, Casey has dedicated countless hours to various civic organizations that make Brooksville a better place to live. He is an active member of multiple local groups, always stepping up to help organize community events, support charitable initiatives, and lend a hand wherever needed. His volunteerism has been instrumental in projects that promote economic growth, cultural enrichment and social well-being in Brooksville. One of Casey's most notable contributions is his unwavering support for local charities and nonprofit organizations. Through the Red Mule Pub, he has hosted and participated in numerous fundraising efforts, donating time, resources, and space to causes that benefit the less fortunate, veterans, first responders, and community programs. His generosity has directly impacted countless individuals and families in need, reinforcing the sense of unity that defines Brooksville. Casey's leadership extends to mentoring and supporting others in the community. He is known for offering guidance and encouragement to young entrepreneurs, fellow business owners, and civic leaders. His ability to bring people together for a common cause has strengthened the bonds within Brooksville, fostering collaboration and goodwill among diverse groups of residents. Above all, Casey Thieryung exemplifies what it means to be a Local Hero--not for accolades or recognition, but because he truly cares about his hometown and its people. His selfless dedication, unwavering passion, and boundless generosity have made an enduring difference in Brooksville. For these reasons, Casey is a deserving recipient of the Local Hero Award, and it is with great pride that we nominate him for this honor. It is clear Casey Thieryung 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 Charles A. ``Charlie'' Rogers has made through his work with Habitat Tampa Bay Gulfside. Charlie Rogers has been on Habitat's Board of Directors since July 2022. A lifelong advocate for education and health, Charlie has brought that experience and passion to Habitat as we continue to find solutions for affordable homeownership in Pinellas and West Pasco Counties. Charlie is a key member of Habitat's work to build more affordable homeownership opportunities in West Pasco and Hernando Counties. He has assisted in organizing special build days with local elected officials and continues to make vital community connections to grow the affiliate's presence. Charlie has continued to build relationships with local government members and stresses the need for private and public partnerships. As Habitat's footprint continues to grow throughout its service area, Charlie Rogers will keep pushing the mission and the vision that everyone deserves a safe place to call home. It is clear Charles A. ``Charlie'' Rogers has made a profoundly positive impact on our cpmmunity, 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 Cheryl Dillow has made through her work with the CARES Senior Clinic. Cheryl is the check out clerk at the clinic. Speedy in her typing, proficient with patient checkout and efficient at scheduling imaging and Dermatology referrals. Cheryl is a vital part of the team. She is always available to assist the patients and co-workers whenever needed. The clinic would not run smoothly without her diligent efforts. It is clear Cheryl Dillow 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 Cheryl Wirt has made to our community through her volunteer work at Veterans Elementary School. Cheryl comes to volunteer at the school almost every day. She has a big heart and a passion for helping students and staff. Cheryl is very involved with the community group that heads up all fundraising for the school. She helps with ideas, calls, and follow-through with anything that needs to be done. She also spends time with the students in the ``Pop up Shop'' each Friday morning and provides extra supervision in the cafeteria at lunchtime. She also, recently re-vamped the School Events Parent Information Board which has all of our events and fundraisers on it for the families to see as they come onto campus. Cheryl asks daily what she can do to help and never stops until she exceeds expectations. It is clear Cheryl Wirt 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 Charles Anderson has made through his work with United Way of Pasco County. Charles W. Anderson, recently retired January 2025 as President & CEO of United Way of Pasco County (UWPC). He has made a profound and lasting impact on the organization and the community it serves. Since assuming leadership in January 2019, Charles transformed UWPC into a more dynamic, responsive, and impactful organization, nearly doubling annual fundraising to $2.8 million by 2023 and expanding its focus from three to eight critical areas of community needs. Under Charles's visionary guidance, UWPC rose to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic with swift aid innovative action. He launched Operation Feed Pasco, which not only supported 19 local restaurants but also provided over 237,000 meals to individuals and families in need. The program mobilized $2.4 million and delivered vital services to shelters, food ministries, and elder care centers during one of the community's most vulnerable times. Charles also pioneered the Fighting Human Trafficking (FHT) Program, positioning UWPC as one of only four United Way organizations globally offering direct services to human trafficking survivors. This program is the only one in Florida with state funding to provide emergency hotel stays and housing for survivors of human trafficking state-wide. Through his strategic advocacy, he secured over $2 million in funding from the Florida Legislature and the Department of Justice, significantly amplifying the program's reach and capacity. Financial stewardship and ethical governance flourished under his leadership, with UWPC earning the highest 4-star rating from Charity Navigator for four consecutive years and maintaining a remarkably low 6.5 percent overhead. Charles built strong partnerships with local, state, and federal leaders, ensuring UWPC played a key role in disaster response and community resilience efforts, including managing FEMA allocations and emergency shelter coordination. Beyond programmatic and financial accomplishments, Charles leaves a cultural legacy of collaboration, compassion, and forward-thinking leadership. He empowered staff and volunteers to innovate and excel, instilled a strong sense of mission throughout the organization, and strengthened the relationship between UWPC and its many partner agencies. Charles retired 2 months ago to spend more time with his family, and he leaves behind a stronger, more resilient UWPC prepared to meet future challenges. It is clear Charles Anderson 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 Cindy Gandy Mahon has made to our community as a volunteer with Brooksville Main Street (BMS). Cindy has demonstrated an exceptional level of commitment, enthusiasm, and passion for the revitalization and growth of downtown Brooksville. Her tireless dedication to BMS's mission and objectives has made a lasting impact, and her unwavering support has been instrumental in the success of numerous projects and events. Cindy has been an invaluable volunteer, consistently contributing countless hours to the betterment of Brooksville. She has been actively involved in multiple committees such as Beautify Brooksville, Promotions, Design as well as Beautify Brooksville, Tangerine Festival, the City's Founder's Week and Christmas on Main, bringing her energy, expertise, and creativity to every initiative. Whether planning events, setting up for activities, assisting with vendor coordination, or welcoming guests with a warm smile, Cindy is always at the forefront, ensuring that every detail is executed flawlessly. One of Cindy's most significant contributions has been her work in supporting Brooksville Main Street's special events, including Beautify Brooksville. Her hands-on involvement in coordinating logistics and managing on-site operations has been crucial in making this event successful. She dedicates long hours before, during, and after this and other events, ensuring everything runs smoothly and all volunteers and attendees have a positive experience. Cindy's leadership and problem-solving skills shine in high-pressure situations, making her a trusted and reliable member of the team. Beyond event coordination, Cindy has also played a key role in furthering the goals of BMS by assisting with community engagement initiatives. She actively promotes Brooksville's historic cham and economic growth by working with local businesses, encouraging participation, and fostering a sense of unity among merchants and residents. Her efforts to support small businesses align perfectly with BMS's mission to strengthen the local economy while preserving the character of our town. Cindy's volunteerism goes above and beyond expectations. She does not hesitate to take an extra responsibilites, often stepping up when additional help is needed. Whether it is arriving early to set up for an event, staying late to clean up, or brainstorming creative ideas to enhance the visitor experience, Cindy's selfless dedication is truly inspiring. She brings positivity, teamwork, and a solutions-oriented approach to every task setting an exemplary standard for other volunteers. Over the past year alone, Cindy has devoted over 100 volunteer hours to BMS, significantly impacting our programs and outreach efforts. Her willingness to invest her time and talents into the organization speaks volumes about her love for Brooksville and her desire to see it thrive. She embodies the spirit of volunteerism, demonstrating a deep sense of responsibility and pride in her work. Her dedication, hard work, and commitment to BMS have made an undeniable difference in our community, and we are deeply grateful for her service. It is clear Cindy Gandy Mahon 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 Daniel Flores has made to our community through his 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 who 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 Daniel Flores 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. Madam Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 617) to amend the Visit America Act to promote music tourism, and for other purposes.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material in the Record on the bill.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 617, the American Music Tourism Act of 2025, led by the gentlewoman from Tennessee (Mrs. Harshbarger), my good friend and a great member of the Committee on Energy and Commerce. Madam Speaker, this bipartisan legislation directs the National Travel and Tourism Office to promote domestic and international tourism to U.S. music festivals, concert venues, and other music-related attractions. Music tourism is a significant economic driver. It is estimated that, by 2032, it will become a $13.8 billion industry. By enhancing our promotion of music-related tourism, we can stimulate local economies, create jobs, and showcase America's rich cultural heritage. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in voting in favor of H.R. 617, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as she may consume to the gentlewoman from Tennessee (Mrs. Harshbarger), my good friend.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, let me tell you, the speaker on the floor of the House of Representatives in the great State of Florida used to begin his speeches by saying, ``I am fired up.'' I am fired up, Mr. Speaker, because we are going to pass a great bill that promotes America. With the previous bill honoring the 1980 USA Gold Medal hockey team, this is a great day in D.C. and all over the United States of America. In closing, I urge a ``yes'' vote on this particular bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 973) to establish consumer standards for lithium-ion batteries.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material in the Record on the bill.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 973, the Setting Consumer Standards for Lithium-Ion Batteries Act, led by Representative Torres. H.R. 973 requires the Consumer Product Safety Commission to issue consumer product safety standards for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries used in micromobility devices, addressing the serious fire hazards they pose. Tragically, defective batteries, particularly those imported from China, have already claimed too many lives. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleagues, Representative Torres, Representative Langworthy, Representative Clarke, and Representative Garbarino, for their bipartisan leadership to protect consumers and first responders. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in voting in favor of H.R. 973, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I encourage a ``yes'' vote, and I congratulate Representative Torres and others for this great bill. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 1402) to require sellers of event tickets to disclose comprehensive information to consumers about ticket prices and related fees, and for other purposes.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material in the Record on this bill.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 1402, the Transparency In Charges for Key Events Ticketing Act, or the TICKET Act. I am proud to lead this bill alongside the ranking member, my good friend, Ms. Schakowsky. This legislation is about empowering consumers and ensuring fans can enjoy live events by improving ticket price transparency. H.R. 1402 requires all platforms selling event tickets to show the complete price, with all required fees, right from the start. People budget, Mr. Speaker, for these games, concerts, or what have you. They need to know up front what the price is going to be. It also guarantees customers can get their money back if an event is canceled or rescheduled. It also cracks down on misleading ticket sites. It is a great bill. This bill further prohibits the sale of tickets the seller doesn't yet have, a practice known as speculative selling. Eliminating this tactic helps level the playing field so more fans have a fair shot at attending events. They deserve that. I urge my colleagues to join me in voting in favor of this very good bill, H.R. 1402. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the remarks of the gentlewoman from Illinois. I just want to say it has been great working with Representative Schakowsky on a number of bills over the years. She has really been very cooperative, and we are doing good things for the American consumer. I will also say that this is a very profamily bill. We have got to get our kids out to some of these ball games and some of these concerts together as a family, but it is very difficult to budget when you don't know exactly what the price is going to be ultimately. I want to commend some of the artists such as Kid Rock. He will buy the tickets and give them to people that deserve those tickets that otherwise would not be able to afford them. My good friend Tony Orlando, as well, does this. They are just wonderful artists that do so much for our country, particularly our military and our veterans. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.