[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 40 (Tuesday, March 3, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E174]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      RECOGNIZING MS. MARTHA MANER

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, March 3, 2026

  Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 
extraordinary contributions of a remarkable community leader in my 
district, Ms. Martha Maner. As an original member of the YMCA 
Togetherhood Program, Martha has been a driving force behind its spirit 
of unity, service, and action. From the very beginning, her positive 
and energetic attitude has set the tone for collaboration and 
meaningful community impact. Martha brings enthusiasm to every meeting, 
encourages participation from every voice, and approaches each 
initiative with a ``let's make it happen'' mindset. Whether organizing 
outreach efforts, supporting families in need, or mobilizing 
volunteers, her optimism inspires others to step forward and serve. 
Through her leadership and vibrant energy, she has helped shape 
Togetherhood into not just a program, but a movement of compassion and 
community pride.
  For more than three decades, Martha has exemplified servant 
leadership and transformative community impact. A proud and active 
member of the Improved Benevolent Protective Order of Elks of the World 
(IBPOEW) for over 30 years, she has served with integrity and grace as 
Exalted Ruler and Daughter Ruler of Frederick Kelley Elks Lodge No. 
1270 and Kelley's Temple No. 1004. Her leadership extends statewide and 
nationally as President of the Florida Women Deputies of Elks, a member 
of Emma V. Kelley Council No. 61, a member of the National Presidents 
Council of Elks, and State President of the Women's Auxiliary of the 
IBPOEW. Her impact goes far beyond titles. Martha helped establish the 
Frederick Kelley Lodge's weekend breakfast program, coordinated nightly 
meals during the COVID-19 lockdown, and continues to host an annual 
community Thanksgiving dinner. She supports young mothers, assists 
families during bereavement, helps coordinate celebrations, and 
contributes to civic initiatives, including the South Brooksville Tax 
Redevelopment Advisory Committee, the Community Redevelopment Agency, 
and the YMCA Togetherhood Program.
  In recognition of her extraordinary service, Martha was honored as 
the 2025 Brooksvillian of the Year and received the 2025 Melissa Rogers 
Humanitarian Award--distinctions that reflect the depth of her 
influence and her dedication to improving the lives of others. Her 
legacy is one of compassion, commitment, and courageous service.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ms. Martha 
Maner for her decades of leadership and transformative contributions to 
her community. For her tireless dedication to families, neighborhoods, 
and civic life, I am proud to honor Martha Maner as a 2026 Heroes Among 
Us recipient for Florida's 12th Congressional District.

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