[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 42 (Tuesday, March 3, 2020)]
[House]
[Page H1465]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      STATE OF FLORIDA'S BIRTHDAY

  (Mr. SPANO asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. SPANO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the great State of 
Florida.
  On this day in 1845, Florida became the 27th State to join our Union 
and has had a strong impact on our Nation ever since.
  From producing 70 percent of our Nation's citrus, to ranking number 2 
in vegetables harvested, Florida, as an agricultural powerhouse, has 
long been critical in feeding hungry Americans. Our State's importance 
to our national security also can't be understated.
  Florida is home to 3 of 11 unified combatant commands--Central 
Command, Southern Command, and Special Operations Command. I am so 
honored to represent a district home to 57,000 veterans, part of the 
1.5 million who call the Sunshine State home.
  Florida is also a major tourism destination as millions from around 
the world flock to our shores to enjoy our beaches, food, culture, and 
theme parks.
  I am grateful to have been born and raised in Florida and to 
represent the 15th District. I look forward to working with the Florida 
delegation to continue bettering the lives of all our State residents 
for generations to come.

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