[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 147 (Thursday, September 17, 2026)]
[Senate]
[Page S4794]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRIBUTE TO MICHELLE MARTINEZ

 Mr. RISCH. Madam President, the Gem State is made strong by 
the hard-working, dedicated, and selfless actions of Idahoans. Across 
our State, hundreds of thousands of veterans, first responders, 
volunteers, and public servants go above and beyond for the communities 
they call home. These people are pillars of our State and are essential 
to keeping Idaho the best place to live, work, and raise a family. 
Through my Idaho Service Spotlight, I recognize these exceptional 
Idahoans whose service and leadership have made a lasting impact on the 
Gem State. Today, I am pleased to recognize Michelle Martinez as an 
Idaho Service Spotlight recipient for the month of August 2026.
  For almost a decade, Michelle Martinez has been the director of the 
Melba Valley Senior Center. Every month, she and her team serves more 
than 45,000 pounds of food to over 1,200 families in the form of hot 
nutritious meals and the facility's pantry. While her role is specific 
to the senior center, Michelle offers food and positive social 
interaction to anyone in the community in need.
  Each November, Michelle hosts a community Thanksgiving at the senior 
center. Alongside a group of volunteers, Michelle makes a home cooked 
Thanksgiving feast with several turkeys and sides made from scratch. 
Their delicious offerings attract a large number of local residents, 
and Michelle makes sure every person that walks through the doors 
leaves with a full stomach.
  Michelle also coordinates the Melba Valley Farmers Market. Originally 
started to combat isolation during the pandemic, the market creates an 
environment for members of the community to gather and grow new 
relationships. In its 6 years of operation, Michelle has watched 
camaraderie flourish, and she looks forward to the continuation of this 
project.
  Michelle serves her community because she believes that everyone has 
a responsibility to make the world a better place. Whether through a 
smile or a shared laugh, Michelle is proof that even the smallest act 
can have a significant, meaningful impact on the lives of others. She 
has, without a doubt, built spaces for people to gather and share those 
important moments.
  On behalf of the people of Idaho, I thank and congratulate Michelle 
for being selected as an Idaho Service Spotlight recipient for the 
month of August 2026. You reflect the very best of our state, and Idaho 
is stronger because of your actions.

                          ____________________