[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 60 (Monday, March 30, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E290]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          HONORING JAMIE MICK

                                  _____
                                 

                         HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 30, 2026

  Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an exceptional 
leader, volunteer, and advocate in our community, Jamie Mick, whose 
dedication and selflessness make her a truly deserving recipient of the 
2026 Heroes Among Us Congressional Award. Jamie Mick has been a 
cornerstone of the Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired & Blind (LVIB) 
since joining its Board of Directors in 2008. Her connection to vision 
loss is deeply personal, as both her grandfather and mother were 
legally blind due to age-related macular degeneration. This lived 
experience, combined with her passion and commitment, has guided her 
leadership across multiple roles, including Board President, a position 
she is slated to step into once again.
  For more than a decade, Jamie has chaired the Chasco Coronation Ball, 
LVIB's signature fundraiser. Beginning as co-chair in 2010, she has led 
the event independently, cultivating a strong, diverse committee and 
implementing a fair, balanced evaluation process for nominees. Her 
vision ensures that both nonprofit organizations and individual 
honorees are celebrated, preserving cherished traditions while keeping 
the event relevant and impactful. Through her leadership, the Ball has 
raised nearly $738,000 in support of LVIB's mission, complementing her 
personal contributions exceeding $20,000. Jamie's devotion extends to 
LVIB's youth programs, particularly the Lighthouse Prom. From 
coordinating dance lessons to personally donating and assembling 
corsages and boutonnieres, she has shaped the event into a beloved 
celebration for nearly 60 teens from six Lighthouse organizations. Her 
attention to detail, enthusiasm, and encouragement help ensure each 
participant feels seen, celebrated, and supported. Her generosity is 
matched by her approachability and steady guidance. Jamie shares 
hundreds of volunteer hours, inspires committees, and uplifts staff and 
clients alike, making a profound and lasting impact on the organization 
and the broader community, Beyond LVIB, Jamie's commitment to service 
resonates throughout Pasco County. She actively supports Leadership 
Pasco, Rotary Club of Trinity, and Rotary District 6950, serving in 
leadership roles that range from Public Image Director to Rotary Youth 
Exchange Officer. Across every organization she touches, Jamie's 
leadership, generosity, and encouragement create meaningful, lasting 
change.
  Jamie Mick's dedication, vision, and selfless service exemplify the 
spirit of community and the power of one person to make a lasting 
difference. For her extraordinary contributions to LVIB and her broader 
impact across Pasco County, I am honored to recognize her as a 2026 
Hero Among Us.

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