Recognizing Marlene Law
Floor Speech
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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.
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