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Dear Neighbor,
November is traditionally a time for reflection and giving thanks. I am humbled and so grateful to have been given the opportunity to continue serving as your voice in Washington. I am also thankful that the majority of Americans spoke with a resounding voice about their desire to change the direction of our country. I look forward to working alongside President Trump and my colleagues in Congress to restore an America-First agenda and to create a more prosperous future for all Americans. Continue reading to learn about my work on your behalf last week.
Honoring our Nation’s Heroes: Throughout the past week, I’ve gathered alongside many of our neighbors to recognize and celebrate our nation’s true heroes – those who answered the call to defend our freedom --no matter the cost. We all understand that the price of freedom is not free. It is paid by men and women who have bravely defended our country and the sacred ideals we cherish. These men and women embody courage and bravery, for when they raise their hand in service - they are agreeing to march into battle whenever and wherever needed, regardless of what they may encounter on the other side. The entire world owes so much to the relatively few among us who have answered the call to serve. I am proud to represent a community that understands this truth and does a wonderful job coming together to honor our heroes. Please be assured that my team and I will continue to do all we can to help ensure our Veterans have access to the care and benefits they deserve.
A special thank you to the local dentists and Pasco-Hernando State College faculty and students who once again helped make our annual Stars, Stripes and Smiles event a tremendous success. I am especially grateful to my own dentist and Navy Veteran, Dr. Zacharias J Kalarickal of Wesley Chapel Dentistry, for his help organizing this wonderful event to provide free dental care to Veterans in need throughout our community. In total, more than $40,000 of services were performed free of charge at this event for our nation’s heroes.
I enjoyed attending the Pasco County Schools’ annual Veterans Day Celebration at River Ridge High School. It was wonderful to see so many students celebrating our nation's true heroes and learning about the importance of service!
It is always an honor to participate in the New Port Richey Rotary's annual Salute to Veterans luncheon. Last week, we recognized over 100 men and women from our community that have proudly served in our nation's military. We appreciate their service and sacrifice!
I also participated in the Homosassa Civic Club’s annual Veterans Day Celebration. We all owe a debt of gratitude to our nation’s heroes which can never be fully repaid. However, we must never forget their service and sacrifice.
Additionally, it was great to stop by Vet Fest in Hernando. There were so many businesses and non-profit organizations offering services to the men and women who served in our military.
Expediting Hurricane Clean-Up Efforts: Many of our neighbors are still coping with the aftermath of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. We are working directly with many individual constituents to get them the help they need, but I am also continuing to push agencies to work together to expedite debris removal so our community and those impacted by recent hurricanes can fully recover. Click here to learn more about how my efforts have enhanced our local governments’ ability to serve you.
Raising Awareness: November is National Diabetes Month! According to CDC data, diabetes affects about 38 million Americans, or 11.6% of the U.S. population, including adults and youth. As Co-Chair of the Congressional Diabetes Caucus, I’m working to improve education outreach, prevention strategies, and early detection, as well as care coordination to help improve patient outcomes. Talk with your doctor about your risk factors. Managing diabetes as soon as possible after diagnosis can help prevent serious health problems.
 Community Connection
I am fortunate to have a team of dedicated staff who regularly attend events throughout our community, especially when I am required to be in Washington, DC. Through their collective efforts, I am better able to stay connected to the issues that matter most to my constituents. As part of my commitment to developing a better understanding of the issues facing constituents in Citrus, Hernando and Pasco counties, members of my team attended several events last week. Here are a few highlights.
My team celebrated the grand opening of Fire Station #20 which is located in the Spring Hill portion of Pasco County.
My team also participated in the YMCA Prayer Breakfast in Citrus County last week.
Additionally, my team enjoyed attending the K-9 for Patriots Open House in Hernando County last week to learn more about the work they are doing to help provide well-trained service animals for Veterans.
Constituent Corner
My team recently received this note after helping a single mother in Pasco County appeal her FEMA denial.
I just want to thank you for going the extra mile to help me and my children over the last few weeks. Your staff member helped me identify the errors in my application and get a new review expedited so that we could be approved for temporary housing assistance while repairs are made to our destroyed home. I thought I was going to lose my mind when I reached out for help and your staff was so patient and kind with me.
This is just one example of the work we do each day. Constituent services are a critical element of our congressional office. The federal government is a massive operation, and my office is available if you ever need assistance in navigating the bureaucracy or cutting through red tape. We are here to serve you! |
