[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 66 (Tuesday, April 16, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E355]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                      RECOGNIZING TARA BALLANTYNE

                                 ______
                                 

                         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 to our community by one of my constituents, 
Tara Ballantyne, who serves as the President of Lion's Club in 
Inverness. Tara also volunteers in her local church, Serves as 
Secretary of the Gulf Coast Manatees Homeschool Group Inc, and with the 
Business Women's Alliance, which is a part of the Citrus County 
Chamber. Needless to say, she is heavily involved in her community and 
has a big heart with a mission to serve. Tara strives for success and 
puts her heart into all that she does. She never takes her job lightly 
and is a wonderful role model. As President of the Lions Club, she 
makes sure the organization remains relevant and active. She is 
involved in making decisions and getting out in the community to share 
the mission of the organization. She spearheads bi-annual clean-ups. 
Tara also helped secure an eye vision screening grant. With this grant, 
the organization goes to local schools and community events to provide 
free vision screenings. It also helps multiple non-profit 
organizations, provides donations, games and vision screenings and 
support throughout the year. She also orchestrates toy drives and 
donations for families at Christmas time. When our community was hit 
hard by a recent hurricane, Tara organized a Disaster Relief Donation 
Drive.
  It is clear that Ms. Ballantyne has made a profoundly positive impact 
on our community, and I am grateful for her service.

                          ____________________