Gus Bilirakis

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions made in our community by one of my constituents, David Gonzalez, who is a valued volunteer with several community organizations in Hernando County and has been a long-time employee of our community's electric cooperative, Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative. In this capacity, he has served as the face of the organization in the community, presenting millions of dollars if credit refunds to local governments and school boards. Mr. Gonzalez has also served in key leadership roles on the Board of Directors for several non-profits in Hernando with the highest levels of dedication, including: the Hernando Chamber of Commerce, Hernando Education Foundation, Hernando Economic Development Council, Oak Hill Hospital Board, and the United Way of Hernando Board. Whenever there has been a need, Mr. Gonzalez has stepped forward to address it, without concern for who gets the credit. A truly humble problem-solver, Mr. Gonzalez embodies the concept of servant leadership and has made a lasting impact on the organizations and communities he has served. While we wish him all the best in his upcoming retirement, we know that his departure from the cooperative will leave behind a void that will not easily be replaced. It is clear that Mr. Gonzalez has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for his service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions made to our community by my constituents, Brian and Stephanie Brijbag. In honor of their daughter who has autism, the couple created the Brijbag Family Foundation which has started a project called Rachel's Room. These rooms were designed with the input of a certified behavioral analyst who helps create safe and supportive learning environments for children with special needs. It is a pro- active approach to helping all kids maximize their potential while also enabling teachers to engage learners in a more functional space. The feedback and positive results stemming from this project have been phenomenal. Schools and other organizations have requesting access to a replicated version of Rachel's Room. Brian and Stephanie have also purchased $1.6 million worth of medical debt to help improve the lives of families in Pasco, Citrus, and Hernando who were struggling with the burden of medical debt. The Brijbag family is incredibly generous with their time, talents and treasure. It is clear that Mr. and Mrs. Brijbag has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for their service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions made in our community by one of my constituents, Mayor Vincent ``Mike'' D'Ambrosio, who volunteers at least 30 hours per week in service to the Town of St. Leo. He's been on the Commission since 2020, and has been Mayor since 2022. Under his leadership, the Town has made many advances, including: Increasing Public Advocacy for Town needs by meeting with state and federal lawmakers, resulting in the Town's first appropriation in its 131-year history. Hosting seven ``Coffee with the Mayor'' events attended by more than 250 people. Facilitating improved communication and involvement with key stakeholders, including: Saint Leo Abbey, Holy Name Monastery, Discovery Fellowship, and Saint Leo University. Building partnerships to expand participation in: the Saint Leo University Tree Lighting and Christmas Village, the Greased Pig Contest at the Saint Leo University Fall Festival, and the Dade City Chamber of Commerce Access East Pasco. Purchasing land to develop a Town Center which will serve as a local gathering spot that enriches the quality of life of the residents and the community. Establishing the Town's first internship program. Mayor Mike is charitable, humble, kind, and passionate. His volunteerism with the Saint Leo Sporting Clays Team and the Church Truth Seekers has also been invaluable. While there may only be 24 hours in a day, Mayor Mike dedicates almost every hour of his days to helping others. It is clear that Mayor Vincent ``Mike'' D'Ambrosio has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for his service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions made in our community by one of my constituents, Karen Epting. Ms. Epting's leadership at the YMCA of the Suncoast-- James P Gill's Family Branch goes beyond mere titles; it's rooted in her genuine passion for making a difference in the Pasco community. As Chair of the YMCA Branch Advisory Council for many years, she provided strategic guidance and rolled up her sleeves to actively participate in the branch's many initiatives and events. Her role as Campaign Chair for the YMCA's fundraising efforts in Pasco County underscores her ability to rally support and resources for vital programs and services. Her dedication ensures that the YMCA can continue its mission of serving the community effectively. Karen's continued involvement in the YMCA's partnership with Feeding Tampa Bay reflects her compassionate response to urgent community needs. Karen helps oversee the distribution of food to over 130 families every two weeks. In this capacity she not only addresses immediate hunger but also fosters a sense of belonging and support within the community. Coordinating a team of 30 volunteers is no small feat, yet Karen does so gracefully and efficiently. She assists in recruiting and training volunteers and fosters a sense of camaraderie and purpose among them. Her hands-on approach during food pick-ups, where she personally welcomes each family and assists with intake procedures, demonstrates her commitment to serving others with dignity and respect. Karen's advocacy for youth literacy is also a testament to her belief in the power of education to transform lives. By leading volunteer efforts for youth reading programs, she promotes literacy and instills a love for learning in young minds, empowering them to reach their full potential. During the holidays, Karen's leadership shines brightly as she volunteers many hours to the YMCA's Seasons of Giving and Giving Tree programs, encouraging community members to spread joy and generosity by purchasing gifts for children in need. Her ability to inspire others to give back underscores her exceptional leadership and ability to mobilize resources for the greater good. Despite her preference for working behind the scenes, Karen's impact reverberates throughout the YMCA and the community at large. Her selfless dedication and unwavering passion serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration, inspiring others to follow in her footsteps and make a positive difference in the world. It is clear that Ms. Epting has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for her service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions of one of my constituents, Daniel Pritz, who serves as a volunteer Board Member for the local non-profit, Brooksville Main Street. These outstanding volunteers put in hundreds of hours while running their businesses and organizations. They have all come together for a common cause--to serve the community by bringing much-loved events to downtown Brooksville. Each of these board members have servant hearts, and their dedication and commitment to our community is impressive. Part of what makes our country so great is the willingness of ordinary Americans to go above and beyond to selflessly give back to others. Volunteerism is one of the cornerstones of our society and part of the fabric that unites us. It is clear that Daniel Pritz and fellow board members have made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for their service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions of one of my constituents, Lee Johnson, who serves as a volunteer Board Member for the local non-profit, Brooksville Main Street. These outstanding volunteers put in hundred of hours while running their businesses and organizations. They have all come together for a common cause--to serve the community by bringing much-loved events to downtown Brooksville. Each of these board members have servant hearts, and their dedication and commitment to our community is impressive. Part of what makes our country so great is the willingness of ordinary Americans to go above and beyond to selflessly give back to others. Volunteerism is one of the cornerstones of our society and part of the fabric that unites us. It is clear that Lee Johnson and fellow board members have made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for their service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions of one of my constituents, Jennifer Rey, who serves as a volunteer Board Member for the local non-profit, Brooksville Main Street. These outstanding volunteers put in hundreds of hours while running their businesses and organizations. They have all come together for a common cause- to serve the community by bringing much-loved events to downtown Brooksville. Each of these board members have servant hearts, and their dedication and commitment to our community is impressive. Part of what makes our country so great is the willingness of ordinary Americans to go above and beyond to selflessly give back to others. Volunteerism is one of the cornerstones of our society and part of the fabric that unites us. It is clear that Jennifer Rey and fellow board members have made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for their service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions of one of my constituents, Dr. John Hamil, who has partnered with CARES Senior Health Clinic to treat its dermatology patients for more than ten years. The doctor and his team treat all skin conditions, including skin cancers. Their work has often been lifesaving. Dr. Hamil and his colleagues who volunteer to serve this vulnerable population are making a profound impact on the lives of the patients they serve. Each of these volunteers have servant hearts, and their dedication to our community is impressive. It is said that a society can be judged by how well it treats its most vulnerable citizens. These medical professionals go above and beyond to ensure none of the patients seeking help at CARES Senior Center fall through the cracks. It is clear that Dr. John Hamil and his fellow volunteers have made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for their service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions made in our community by one of my constituents, Gerald Mulligan. ``Gerry'' as he is lovingly referred to, is a prominent figure in Citrus County, known for his dedication to community development and service. As the former Publisher of the Citrus County Chronicle, Gerry has used his platform to advocate for various causes over the years, notably the establishment of a YMCA in the area. His commitment to this project spans back to the 1990s, and he played a pivotal role in its development. His tireless efforts as a volunteer, advocate, and community leader are highlighted by his co- chairing the capital campaign committee to build a YMCA in Citrus County, which successfully raised over $8 million in four years, allowing the YMCA to be built without incurring any debt. Being so engaged and associated with so many in the community, Gerry Mulligan played a role as a connector in nearly every relationship the YMCA established during the capital campaign. His leadership roles, including serving as the first Advisory Council Chair of the Citrus Memorial Health Foundation YMCA (where he continues to serve as a Council member today) and serving on the YMCA of the Suncoast's Board of Directors, highlight his commitment to the YMCA and the community. You can often find Gerry at any of the special events at the Y, as he continues to be an active YMCA member and volunteer. Gerry's involvement in the community extends beyond his role at the YMCA. He actively engages in numerous volunteer efforts and civic organizations, including the Rotary Club of Crystal River and a founder of the United Way in Citrus County. Gerry's civic contributions have been widely recognized, as evidenced by his induction into the Florida Newspaper Hall of Fame and his recognition as Citizen of the Year for Citrus County in 2021. Gerry Mulligan's leadership, support, and advocacy create a lasting legacy in Citrus County. In addition to the work he continues to do with the YMCA in Citrus County, his multifaceted involvement across various sectors demonstrates his dedication to making his community a better place for its residents. Gerry's work as a community champion continues to earn him the admiration of his fellow citizens and the well-deserved recognition. It is clear that Mr. Mulligan has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for his service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions of one of my constituents, Dr. Theodore Fotopoulos who has partnered with CARES Senior Health Clinic to treat its dermatology patients for more than ten years. These healthcare providers treat all skin conditions, including skin cancers. Their work has often been lifesaving. Dr. Fotopoulos and his colleagues who volunteer to serve this vulnerable population are making a profound impact on the lives of the patients they serve. Each of these volunteers have servant hearts, and their dedication to our community is impressive. It is said that a society can be judged by how well it treats its most vulnerable citizens. These medical professionals go above and beyond to ensure none of the patients seeking help at CARES Senior Center fall through the cracks. It is clear that Dr. Fotopoulos and his fellow volunteers have made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for their service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions of one of my constituents, Dr. Marc Yacht who has volunteered his time and expertise treating patients at the CARES Senior Clinic since 2007 when he retired as the Director of the Pasco County Health Department. He currently provides telehealth services for those who have no other options for care. Dr. Yacht and his colleagues who volunteer to serve this vulnerable population are making a profound impact on the lives of the patients they serve. Each of these volunteers have servant hearts, and their dedication to our community is impressive. It is said that a society can be judged by how well it treats its most vulnerable citizens. These medical professionals go above and beyond to ensure none of the patients seeking help at CARES Senior Clinic fall through the cracks. It is clear that Dr. Marc Yacht and his fellow volunteers have made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for their service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions made in our community by one of my constituents, Angel Cook. Angel is an esteemed member of the community with a huge heart for at-risk youth and a duty to serve beyond measure. For the past 15 years, Angel has committed time, effort, and energy to support the RAP House in New Port Richey and more specifically, the runaway, homeless and foster youth that reside in the shelter. RAP serves an average of 200 youth every year which means that Angel has touched the lives of over 3,000 children. What drives Angel's dedication and passion is her extraordinary personal story and relationship with RAP House. Growing up in a troubled home, Angel eventually found her way to RAP where she resided off and on for some time. Angel does not hesitate to share how RAP ``saved her life'' and helped her envision a positive and productive future despite the odds. As an ambassador for RAP, Angel has been a part of the Rap River Run (RRR) committee, raising well over $300,000 since 2016 to support RAP in meeting the needs of youth in crisis. These funds are crucial to support operations and services at RAP including counseling, tutoring, clothing, and extracurricular activities. Additionally, Angel has been the RAP Queen of Christmas for over 10 years, gathering youth Christmas wishes and making sure they are fulfilled every year. And what an amazing effort this is. Each child creates a list of 10 wishes and Angel works with the community to make it happen, including a wrapping party to ensure the gifts have a personal touch. The looks on the faces of the kids when they see they were remembered at Christmas and their wishes fulfilled is the touch of magic Angel consistently delivers. One of the true ``doers'' in the community, Angel seems to always be organizing fundraisers and community events to better the lives of others. She helps coordinate annual parades and is involved in numerous local non-profits. She truly is an angel--touching the lives of those she serves. It is clear that Ms. Cook has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for her service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions of one of my constituents, Dr. Wayne Taylor, recently retired General Practitioner and Wound Care Specialist. He has seen patients at CARES Senior Health Clinic for more than seven years. He is also a brilliant diagnostician who is generous in every way. His caring and patient demeanor helps put patients at ease and ensures they are treated with dignity at all times. Dr. Taylor and his colleagues who volunteer to serve this vulnerable population are making a profound impact on the lives of the patients they serve. Each of these volunteers have servant hearts, and their dedication to our community is impressive. It is said that a society can be judged by how well it treats its most vulnerable citizens. These medical professionals go above and beyond to ensure none of the patients seeking help at CARES Senior Center fall through the cracks. It is clear that Dr. Wayne Taylor and his fellow volunteers have made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for their service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions made in our community by one of my constituents, Jackson Davis, who is currently in his first year of college. As part of his Eagle Scout Project, Jackson raised enough funds to buy a bus and all the supplies needed to convert the bus into a food pantry on wheels. He then donated the mobile food pantry to Messengers of Hope for use throughout the community. For his tremendous efforts, Jackson was recognized as the Eagle Scout Project of the Year for 2023. Jackson further inspired his family, extended family, friends, and fellow scouts to volunteer at Messengers of Hope to serve groceries and participate in other service projects. Part of what makes our country so great is the willingness of ordinary Americans to go above and beyond to selflessly give back to others. Volunteerism is one of the cornerstones of our society and part of the fabric that unites us. It is clear that Mr. Jackson Davis has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for his service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions made in our community by one of my constituents, Jack Asbury, who is lovingly known as the ``Batman of Spring Hill''. Mr. Asbury is a father who knows what it is like to have kids in the hospital. He decided to dedicate his time outside of being an EMT by turning into Batman and visiting kids in hospitals and cancer centers. He also works with bullied kids and even adults going through hard times. This man has seen the most horrific things in life, yet still makes time to bring light into people's darkest moments. Part of what makes our country so great is the willingness of ordinary Americans to go above and beyond to selflessly give back to others. Volunteerism is one of the cornerstones of our society and part of the fabric that unites us. It is clear that Mr. Jack Asbury has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for his service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions made in our community by one of my constituents, Shae Davis. Shae's unwavering dedication and tireless efforts have significantly impacted the lives of children in the East Pasco area, making her a true hero among us. As a volunteer at the Sarah Vande Berg Tennis Foundation, Shae has played a vital role in enhancing the lives of children in the East Pasco area, particularly through the promotion of tennis as a means to foster physical health, teamwork, and personal development. Her vision and passion for creating positive change have resulted in numerous initiatives that directly benefit the youth in our community. Part of what makes our country so great is the willingness of ordinary Americans to go above and beyond to selflessly give back to others. Volunteerism is one of the cornerstones of our society and part of the fabric that unites us. It is clear that Ms. Shae Davis has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for her service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions made in our community by one of my constituents, Robert ``Bob'' O'Connell, who has been a resident of Citrus County for 45 years. Believing that one makes a life out of what they give rather than what they get, Bob has been an active volunteer for approximately 30 non-profit organizations, including: The Homosassa Lions Club, The Citrus Pregnancy Center, the Citrus County Abuse Shelter, Habitat for Humanity, Day Star, Citrus County Blessings, the Sheriffs Youth Ranch, United Way of Citrus County, and the Path of Citrus County. A truly humble public servant, Bob finds creative ways to serve others, never seeking notoriety or praise. He has undoubtedly left a lasting imprint in the lives of countless neighbors in Citrus County who will never know the tremendous effort he has put forth on their behalf. Part of what makes our country so great is the willingness of ordinary Americans to go above and beyond to seflessly give back to others. Volunteerism is one of the cornerstones of our society and part of the fabric that unites us. It is clear that Mr. Robert ``Bob'' O'Connell has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for his service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions of my constituent, Mark Barry, who works with the Arc, Nature Coast. Mark knew he wanted to work with people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) since high school. He received his degree in special education and began working at Pasco Arc. He became the CEO for The Arc, Nature Coast in 1992, serving this field for 43 years. During his tenure, he led the agency from a grassroots organization to one which serves 300+ individuals and their families in 22 locations and within three counties. He also led individuals from sheltered workshops into competitive employment, with 120 people served currently employed in the community. Additionally, Mark has secured grant funding for the construction of five new, fully assessable residential homes, providing permanent housing for 50+ individuals with IDD. His commitment to inclusion and to ensuring that everyone, regardless of their disability status is able to live a full and meaningful life is inspiring. It is clear that Mark Barry has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for his service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions of one of my constituents, Toni Martin, who volunteers countless hours each week helping colleagues, businesses, and children navigate the tumultuous world in which we live, and she does it will a golden heart. Toni is a leader in educating the community on the issue of human trafficking and its prevalence in the Tampa Bay area. She also dedicates her time to the New Beginnings Youth Shelter in Brooksville, serving as a mentor to young boys and girls who have been left or abandoned by their parents. Well-known for her innovative problem solving skills, local leaders at all levels rely upon Toni to help strategize on how to address unmet needs in the community, and she always delivers positive results. Part of what makes our country so great is the willingness of ordinary Americans to go above and beyond to selflessly give back to others. Volunteerism is one of the cornerstones of our society and part of the fabric that unites us. It is clear that Ms. Toni Martin has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for her service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions made in our community by one of my constituents, Nicholas Walton. Nick's unwavering dedication and tireless efforts have significantly impacted the lives of children in the East Pasco area, making him a true hero among us. Nick has gone above and beyond in his role at the Sarah Vande Berg Tennis Foundation, demonstrating an exceptional commitment to the betterment of the community. Through his leadership, the foundation has played a vital role in enhancing the lives of children in the East Pasco area, particularly through the promotion of tennis as a means to foster physical health, teamwork, and personal development. His vision and passion for creating positive change have resulted in numerous initiatives that directly benefit the youth in our community. Nick's ability to inspire and mobilize others has led to the successful implementation of programs that provide access to tennis facilities, coaching, and educational opportunities for children who may not have otherwise had such access. Nick's impact extends beyond the tennis court, as he consistently strives to instill values of leadership, discipline, and community engagement in the young minds he mentors. His commitment to fostering a supportive environment for children to thrive in is truly commendable. Part of what makes our country so great is the willingness of ordinary Americans to go above and beyond to selflessly give back to others. Volunteerism is one of the cornerstones of our society and part of the fabric that unites us. It is clear that Mr. Nicholas Walton has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for his service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions made in our community by one of my constituents, Dr. Niles Kinnunen, Jr. Dr. Kinnunen has been a vital part of Pasco- Hernando State College (PHSC) and its Foundation since the institution's early days in 1975. Dr. Kinnunen served on the PHSC Foundation Board for 20 years before resigning in 2008. His unwavering leadership and commitment to the Foundation's mission led to his lifetime recognition as an Honorary Board Member. Being one of the first dentists in west Pasco County, Dr. Kinnunen was instrumental in establishing the dental program at PHSC and still supports the program today. During the Foundation's recent comprehensive campaign, Dr. Kinnunen collaborated with PHSC staff, local dentists, and community stakeholders to implement a campaign focused on raising funds for PHSC's dental program. Today, he continues to support students enrolled in the dental hygiene program through scholarship assistance. In 1989, Dr. Kinnunen, along with the West Pasco Dental Association, initiated the establishment of the Jeffrey and Kathleen Kinnunen Scholarship at the PHSC Foundation in memory of his son Jeffrey and late wife Kathleen who was a dental hygienist. Since its establishment, the endowment has provided over $30,000 in scholarship awards to PHSC students. Without scholarship support such as this, many students would not have the opportunity to attend PHSC and achieve their dreams. Dr. Kinnunen and his wife, Cherry, continue to support the Foundation through their gift of time, talent, and treasure. You can often find the Kinnunen's at a performing arts show at PHSC's West Campus and other Foundation events. It is clear that Dr. Niles Kinnunen has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for his service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions of my constituents, Sue and George Cannella. Sue has worked at the Pregnancy & Family Life Center (``the Center'') as a volunteer two days a week since 2015. She is the lead volunteer in the Food Pantry and, as such, shoulders the lion's share of responsibility for ensuring that USDA and non-USDA food items are received, maintained and provided to the Center's clients which includes pregnant Moms, Dads, and families. Sue is extremely dedicated to the clients at the Center and her work pays off. Last year alone, more than 6,000 clients were helped in the food pantry and 65,000 pounds of food distributed. Additionally, Sue ensures moms receive essential items needed for their infants and young children to include formula, diapers, pull ups, baby wipes, and wash, as well as age specific clothing items such as onesies, pajamas, shirts, shorts, pants, and shoes. She does all of this with a warm smile to greet clients, families, staff, and volunteers alike. No job is too large or challenging for Sue. Sue and her husband, George, are quite the team. George comes to the Center at least one day a week to break down numerous boxes which previously contained food or donations from big box stores such as Big Lots or CVS. George also performs maintenance as needed throughout the Center. Sue and George distribute nutritious food boxes monthly to five veterans who otherwise would go without much needed food. They have selfless, generous, and kind hearts in service to Our Lord and the Center's clients. They remain a source of inspiration and hope for women experiencing planned and unplanned pregnancies. They understand that a smile, a kind word, or a joke makes all the difference to families in need. It is clear that Mr. and Mrs. Cannella have made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for their service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions of one of my constituents, Betty Burke, who volunteers countless hours each week helping others. Betty Burke believes that one person can make a difference in this complicated world. Nearly 20 years ago as a Rotarian, Betty partnered with Farmworkers' Self Help Inc. to establish a mentoring program for young daughters of migrant workers. The Rotary Program ended in 2020, but Betty continued the program. She invested time, resources, and money to make certain weekly gatherings at the Clubhouse would continue to broaden the girls' horizons. The best estimate for the time she spent with them is a remarkable 5,400 hours. Betty was also a founding member of San Antonio Rotary Club, served as President for two terms, and Assistant Governor for one. She spearheaded Rotary's taking over the Rattlesnake Festival. Along with others, Betty started a Farmer's Market, which created a wonderful sense of community. Additionally, she helped create St. Leo's Pasco County Fair Community Booths, made a giant gingerbread house for the St. Leo/SLU Christmas Village, and continues to support St. Leo. Betty also works to help children in foster care establish a sense of belonging as they transition from placements and works with partners to make sure their primary needs are met. It is clear that Ms. Betty Burke has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for her service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize March as Developmental Disability Awareness Month. As a country, it is important that we acknowledge and celebrate the diversity and unique abilities of all individuals, regardless of developmental disabilities. By doing so, we promote a deeper understanding of developmental disabilities and the need to create a more inclusive and welcoming society for everyone. In my district, several non-profit organizations are dedicated to providing positive opportunities and support for families impacted by disabilities. They work collaboratively with other stakeholders to foster a culture of inclusion, advocacy, community and learning. We can certainly agree that all individuals deserve the opportunity to lead a fulfilling life, pursue their dreams, and contribute to the betterment of our society. I recognize and appreciate the good work of all non-profit organizations throughout Florida's 12th Congressional District that are working to advance this important goal through public-private partnerships. Together, we affirm the value and potential of every individual, regardless of developmental disability status, not only in the month of March, but throughout the year.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 7520, the Protecting Americans' Data from Foreign Adversaries Act. Last week, the House took historic action to protect Americans' data from foreign-owned subsidiaries such as ByteDance. Today, we have legislation that will protect Americans' data privacy from data brokers seeking to sell our personally identifiable sensitive information to these foreign entities. The subcommittee that I chair has done significant work to get this done to lay the foundation for why we need a strong Federal data privacy and security law and why a Federal standard is needed to protect Americans here at home while balancing the needs of business, government, and civil society. As there is no Federal comprehensive data privacy and security law, data brokers are often unfettered when it comes to selling personally identifiable information. Our adversaries can all too easily purchase this sensitive data of American citizens, including information that identifies our servicemen and -women, and can target individuals based on their connection to the military and the Federal Government more broadly. H.R. 7520 will prohibit data brokers from selling our personally identifiable sensitive information and ensure proper enforcement authorities are in place to go after these bad actors. This small and targeted change to an otherwise free market will help ensure citizens' personal data is kept safe from entities seeking to manipulate Americans, while still respecting broader business decisions in the marketplace. I thank Chair Rodgers and Ranking Member Pallone for their great work here on this particular issue. It takes leadership, Madam Speaker, and we have it here in the Energy and Commerce Committee. Our wonderful staff is the best. They are second to none, and they got this done. To me, this only underscores the need to complete our subcommittee's top priority this Congress. We must enact a comprehensive Federal data privacy and security law as soon as possible. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 7520. This is vital for our national security. As many alluded to last week, I urge my colleagues to support our efforts on moving forward toward enacting stronger data privacy and security protections broadly for Americans nationwide. So great work has been done by the leadership and the committee in the full Congress. Let's get this across the finish line and over to the United States Senate and the President's desk.