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Dear Neighbor,
As we approach the end of the year, I want to take a moment to reflect on the work my team and I have been privileged to carry out on behalf of our constituents. From advancing health care access and supporting our service members to strengthening partnerships at home and abroad, these past weeks have underscored my continued commitment to service, accountability, and results for the people we represent. As the year comes to a close, I wish you and your loved ones a Merry Christmas and a joyful holiday season. This is a time to reflect on our blessings, cherish time with family and friends, and extend kindness to those in need. I hope the holidays bring peace, hope, and renewed optimism for the year ahead.
Expanding Access to Vision and Hearing Support: I was honored to attend the groundbreaking of the Lions World Vision Institute Children’s Health Center. As someone who is visually impaired, I understand firsthand how critical access, rehabilitation, and innovation are to maintaining independence and opportunity. This new institute will make a lasting difference for children and families by expanding vision care and support services in our community, and I am grateful to the Lions and all who helped make this milestone possible.
I was also deeply honored to receive the National Hearing Health Leadership Award from the American Academy of Audiology. Living with hearing impairment has given me a personal understanding of how vital accessibility is to communication, engagement, and full participation in daily life. This recognition reinforces my commitment to advancing policies that expand opportunity and access for individuals with hearing loss across our nation.
Getting Things Done: I am proud to continue serving on the Energy and Commerce Committee, where we are working diligently to deliver results and follow through on our promises to the American people. Together, we are focused on practical solutions that strengthen our economy, improve health care access, and protect consumers.
 I also participated in important discussions in Washington aimed at strengthening the strategic partnership between the United States, Greece, and Israel. These meetings explored opportunities for expanded collaboration in medical innovation and deeper trilateral cooperation that supports shared security, job creation, and prosperity. Click here to learn more about my work on these important issues.
Protecting Our Heroes: Closer to home, I'm continuing to advocate for our service members and their families. Everyone deserves a safe and healthy place to live, and I will keep working to ensure concerns-such as housing conditions at MacDill Air Force Base-are addressed and corrected. Click here to learn more about my efforts.
Celebrating a Life Well Lived: It was also a privilege to honor the life and legacy of my friend and constituent, Rabbi Gary Klein, on the House Floor. He will be remembered for his faith, leadership, and lasting service to our community. May his memory be eternal.
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 proudly attended the inaugural Hanukkah Celebration in Citrus County. I hope all my Jewish friends enjoyed a wonderful and meaningful Hanukkah.
My team was also delighted to attend the opening of Maleo’s Restaurant in East Pasco, celebrating the addition of a new local business to the community.
Additionally, my team was honored to attend the memorial service for Mary Ann Keckler, a passionate advocate for her fellow female Veterans, a fierce friend, and a devoted community volunteer. I was proud to offer her family a copy of the extension of remarks that I submitted to the Congressional Record honoring her legacy of selfless sacrifice. Through her tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to service, she made a profound and lasting impact on the lives of so many. She will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her. May her memory be eternal!
Constituent Corner
My team recently received this message from a constituent after my team helped secure an appointment with a specialist through the Community Care program.
I want to thank you in regards to helping me with getting my back surgery approved with the VA Community Care. Surgery is scheduled for Jan 29th. It’s been 18 years past due.
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. Also, if you are planning a trip to Washington, DC please let us know 90 days in advance so we can help make the most of your visit. We are here to serve you! |
