[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 101 (Thursday, June 12, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E566]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      RECOGNIZING STEPHANIE WILSON

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 12, 2025

  Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to rise today to 
recognize Ms. Stephanie Wilson for her service at Withlacoochee River 
Electric Cooperative (WREC) and her remarkable role in the Light Up 
Navajo Project. In May, a courageous team of 16 WREC employees traveled 
over 1,800 miles to the remote, rugged terrains of Arizona and New 
Mexico, where they spent two weeks installing vital electrical 
infrastructure for Navajo families who have lived without power for 
generations. Their efforts brought light, safety, and hope to 
communities long overlooked, allowing children to study after dark, 
families to preserve food, and elders to live with greater comfort. 
Despite daunting challenges and limited equipment, the WREC team 
completed a demanding project in just eight days--far ahead of 
expectations--demonstrating professionalism, humility, and unwavering 
commitment to this life-changing mission.
  The impact of WREC's work goes far beyond electricity; it represents 
a bridge to connection, opportunity, and the return of future 
generations to their ancestral homes. The emotional moment when power 
was turned on for the impacted families--bringing tears of joy and 
renewed hope--is a testament to the profound difference this project 
made. WREC's participation in the ``Light Up Navajo'' initiative 
reflects not only their technical expertise but also their heart and 
respect for the people they serve. Their dedication has energized ten 
homesteads and countless lives, creating a legacy of service that 
embodies the true spirit of cooperative values. The WREC team's journey 
inspires us all, proving that with compassion and teamwork, even the 
most daunting challenges can be overcome to light up lives and 
communities. I commend the entire team for their efforts on this 
worthwhile endeavor and for their ongoing service to our local 
community.

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