Recognizing Lady Lake, Florida
Floor Speech
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Mr. FINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the town of Lady Lake, Florida, which celebrated its remarkable centennial in November. Though the town held its first official meeting in 1925, Lady Lake's story reaches back to the 1880s, when a new railway depot sparked growth in a community first home to the Seminole Indians.
From its early years as a hub for citrus and watermelon growers to the history now preserved by the Lady Lake Historical Society Museum, the town's heritage reflects a century of resilience.
The recent weeklong celebration brought that heritage to life, uniting residents, visitors, and community partners in a series of events to honor 100 years of hometown pride.
I extend my sincere appreciation to the town commission, along with Town Manager Lawrence and Police Chief Hunt, for their leadership in making this milestone possible. My thanks also go to every department, volunteer, and community partner who helped make that celebration unforgettable.
Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to represent the residents of Lady Lake in Congress. Here is to another 100 years of community connection and tradition. Recognizing City of Flagler Beach
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Mr. FINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the city of Flagler Beach, which celebrated its 100th anniversary this year, marking a century since its official incorporation. Though it would not become an official city until 1963, Flagler Beach's history stretches back even further, when it was originally known as the town of Ocean City.
The iconic Flagler Beach Pier quickly became a gathering place for residents and visitors alike, and the existing A-frame carrying the city's name remains a treasured piece of that early history. My office will continue working with FEMA and our State, county, and local partners to assist with the pier's restoration, ensuring this landmark endures for future generations.
Flagler Beach has always been defined by its close-knit community, small businesses, and the enduring spirit that makes this city truly unique. I extend my sincere thanks to the Flagler Beach City Commission and the staff for their leadership and dedication in preserving this community and its heritage.
Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to represent the people of Flagler Beach in Congress. Here is to 100 more years of community, resilience, and a bright future for this coastal gem. Recognizing Lake County Superintendent Diane Kornegay
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Mr. FINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ms. Diane Kornegay for her selection as Florida's 2026 Superintendent of the Year.
Ms. Kornegay is a seasoned educator with more than 35 years of experience. Under her tutelage, Lake County Schools have made significant strides in academic performance, achieving an A grade from the Florida Department of Education in 2025 for the first time since 2008, which is no easy task.
Since the beginning of her tenure, Lake County Schools have also seen notable increases in proficiency, including 15 percentage points in algebra 1 and 7 percentage points in English language arts for grades 9 and 10.
Mr. Speaker, Ms. Kornegay is committed to serving her community and ensuring academic excellence for her students. Lake County is fortunate to have such an excellent servant, and I am honored to congratulate her on receiving this award. Honoring the Life of Julius ``Jules'' Kwiatkowski
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Mr. FINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Commissioner Julius ``Jules'' Kwiatkowski, a faithful public servant who served as commissioner of the East Flagler County Mosquito Control District for 17 years.
We have a lot of mosquitoes in Florida. Throughout his tenure, Mr. Kwiatkowski helped guide the district through major accomplishments, including the expansion of mosquito control services to meet the needs of a growing community. His service to the community was so exemplary that he was honored with the unveiling of the ``Jules the Turtle'' statue to celebrate his enduring community spirit.
Even before his election as commissioner, Mr. Kwiatkowski was a dedicated community servant. Upon moving to Florida, he volunteered with Palm Coast Fire and Police and served during the 1998 Flagler County wildfires.
Beyond his service, Jules was a dedicated husband and father. Flagler County was incredibly fortunate to have such an excellent man serve the community. May his memory be a blessing.
Recognizing Volusia County Superintendent Carmen Balgobin
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Mr. FINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Superintendent Carmen Balgobin of Volusia County Schools for her selection as 2025 Superintendent of the Year by the National Association of School Superintendents.
Superintendent Balgobin's leadership of Volusia County Schools has been transformative. Under her watch, the district received its first A rating in 16 years from the Florida Department of Education, achieved a 93.7 graduation rate, and eliminated all D-rated schools in the county. Her innovative approach of focusing on college and career technical pathways programs, which specify teaching students practical skills for their next steps, has paid dividends for the education of all Volusia County students.
Mr. Speaker, Superintendent Balgobin is committed to serving her community and ensuring academic excellence for her students. Volusia County is fortunate to have such an excellent servant, and I am honored to congratulate her on receiving this award.
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