[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 64 (Monday, April 13, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E314]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      RECOGNIZING CHRISTINE SMITH

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, April 13, 2026

  Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the 
extraordinary contributions of one of my constituents, Christine Smith, 
who has devoted nearly five years of service to Habitat for Humanity of 
the Nature Coast. Over that time, Chris has volunteered more than 1,200 
hours--an incredible commitment that has helped countless Habitat 
partner families receive the keys to their new homes. Many of our 
regular customers fondly know her as the ``Book Lady,'' as she 
continues to volunteer in the media department at the Inverness 
ReStore, carefully organizing books by author and genre. Chris 
approaches every task with passion and dedication, often staying late 
or arriving early to ensure the work gets done.
  Even in retirement from a long career in school administration, Chris 
continues to serve her community, supporting her peers and sharing her 
talents. She is also an active member of a local chorus, bringing joy 
to others through her music. Chris is not only a committed volunteer 
but also a cherished member of the Habitat family.
  It is clear that Christine Smith has made a profoundly positive 
impact on our community. I am deeply grateful for her dedication and 
service, and I am proud to recognize her as a 2026 Hero Among Us for 
Florida's 12th Congressional District.

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