[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 66 (Tuesday, April 16, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E358]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         RECOGNIZING JOE MARINA

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 16, 2024

  Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the 
unique contributions made in our community by one of my constituents, 
Joe Marina, who is a valued volunteer with several community 
organizations 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 of credit refunds to local 
governments and school boards. Mr. Marina embodies the heart of a true 
public servant, lending his expertise, passion, time and energy into 
all he has been involved with. He has served in key leadership roles on 
the Board of Directors for United Way of Pasco, the Pasco Economic 
Development Council, the Boys and Girls Club, the Vincent House and 
several other local nonprofits. Mr. Marina doesn't just lend his name 
to a cause; when he commits to something, he goes ``all-in''--above and 
beyond to make a lasting imprint on the lives of those his work 
touches. For more than 25 years, whenever there has been an unmet need 
in the community, Mr. Marina has stepped up to the plate to make sure 
the job is done, and done right. He has worked tirelessly on countless 
large-scale community projects to enrich the lives of the people of 
Pasco County and to create opportunities for future residents. He has 
helped to transform Pasco from a bedroom community to one in which 
people can truly live, play and work. His compassion and his desire to 
empower others to realize their full potential knows no bounds. As he 
embarks upon his well-deserved retirement, he leaves behind a legacy of 
selfless service, commitment to others, and humble leadership. His 
shoes will be big to fill.
  It is clear that Mr. Marina has made a profoundly positive impact on 
our community, and I am grateful for his service.

                          ____________________