Honoring Citrus County’s Fallen Heroes

Posted on May 1st, 2026 by

Honoring Citrus County’s Fallen Heroes

Today I had the honor of attending the solemn Citrus County Sheriff’s Office Fallen Officer Memorial Ceremony in Inverness. It was a powerful and humbling reminder of the sacrifice made by those who have served and protected our community.

We paused to remember the brave men who gave their lives in the line of duty, including Deputy Sheriff James McIntosh McMullen, Marshal J.W. Newsome, Master Detective Aubrey Fred Johnson, Corporal Andres Lahera, and Corporal Marcial Rodriguez. Their service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Special honors were bestowed by Sheriff David Vincent to recognize two remarkable individuals who meant so much to Citrus County, Corporal Lahera and Corporal Rodriguez. They were dedicated law enforcement officers and school resource officers, but also fathers, husbands, and role models whose impact reached far beyond their uniforms.

Sheriff David Vincent presented the Medal of Honor to the family of Corporal Lahera and the Distinguished Service Medal to Corporal Rodriguez, recognizing their courage, commitment, and selfless service.

Moments like today remind us of the true cost of public safety and the strength of the families who stand behind these heroes. Please keep their loved ones, and all who serve, in your thoughts and prayers.

God bless their families, and may we never forget.

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A Decade of Impact: Celebrating 10 Years of Community and Partnership at the Lecanto YMCA

Posted on May 1st, 2026 by

A Decade of Impact: Celebrating 10 Years of Community and Partnership at the Lecanto YMCA

There is a unique energy that fills the air when a community comes together to celebrate a milestone built on service, growth, and shared vision. Today, that energy was on full display under the pavilion in Lecanto as we gathered to celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the Citrus Memorial Health Foundation YMCA.

Reflecting on the past decade, it is clear that this facility has become far more than just a place to exercise—it is a cornerstone of Citrus County. From the powerful performance by the Lecanto High School drum corps to the heartfelt words shared by community leaders, the celebration was a beautiful reminder of what we can achieve when we work together.

A Visionary Agreement: Looking Back to 2016

I am especially proud to reflect on the bold step the Citrus County School Board and the YMCA took together a decade ago. At the time, we entered into a visionary 25-year agreement that was designed with one singular goal in mind: saving lives. Back then, drowning was (and remains) the leading cause of death for children in Florida. By partnering with the Y, we ensured that every elementary student in our district would have access to life-saving water safety programs. Not only did this agreement protect our children, but through the public and private partnership, it was also a win for taxpayers, saving approximately $425,000 in general fund costs over the life of the contract. Seeing that vision flourish ten years later is a testament to the power of long-term thinking. (Read more from than at: https://thomastalks.org/school-boards-agreement-on-y-pool-will-save-lives/)

Growing Together: The Next Chapter

As Citrus County continues to grow, so does our YMCA. During today’s celebration, we were given a glimpse into the future of this facility as the Y prepares to expand and “reimagine” our branch to better serve individuals, families, seniors, and youth. The planned expansion includes:

  • Multi-Purpose Rooms: New dedicated spaces for group exercise, classes, and community events.
  • Shaded Pickleball Courts: Outdoor courts designed for active play and social connection.
  • Shaded Playground: A safe, sun-protected outdoor space for kids to thrive.
  • Reimagined Teen Center: A dedicated, modern space for local youth to grow and connect.
  • Functional Wellness Room: Enhanced equipment to support strength and mobility for all ages.

A Partnership That Changes Lives

For the Citrus County School District, this anniversary isn’t just about a building; it’s about a vital partnership. Over the last ten years, our collaboration with the YMCA of the Suncoast has created both a safety net and a springboard for our students.

We aren’t just neighbors; we are teammates in the mission to help our children thrive. Our partnership has flourished in four key areas that define the student experience:

  • Water Safety & Drowning Prevention: Teaching our elementary children how to be safe is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. The Y’s commitment to water safety ensures our students gain life-saving skills.
  • Competitive Swimming: Through these premier facilities, our high school student-athletes have a professional place to train and compete, teaching them the discipline and health habits that last a lifetime.
  • After-School Programs: The “gap hours” between school and home are critical. The Y provides a productive, safe, and engaging environment where learning continues long after the final bell rings.
  • Specialty Camps: From summer breaks to holiday sessions, these camps offer our students unique opportunities to explore new interests and build lifelong friendships.

Looking Toward the Future

As we watched the American flag wave high above the trees—hoisted by a ladder truck in a stunning display of local pride—it was impossible not to feel optimistic.

The first ten years have laid a magnificent foundation. Because of the Citrus Memorial Health Foundation YMCA, our community is healthier, our children are safer in the water, and our families have a place to call home.

To our partners at the YMCA: Thank you for an incredible decade. We are honored to stand beside you, and we can’t wait to see the lives we will continue to change together in the next ten years and beyond.

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Another Inspiring Year: Upward Bound Celebrates Growth, Grit, and Potential

Posted on April 25th, 2026 by

Another Inspiring Year: Upward Bound Celebrates Growth, Grit, and Potential

The last of the 2025–2026 Rotary Ray Darling Upward Bound Award celebrations took place this month. These events are not simply another awards date on the calendar. They are a reflection point, a moment where students, families, educators, and community leaders come together to recognize something meaningful. While students proudly walk across the stage to receive their awards, what they truly carry with them is a lasting affirmation that they are seen, supported, and valued.

In a time when so much attention is placed on outcomes and final results, I am always grateful that the Ray Darling Upward Bound Awards continue to center their mission on the journey. Awarded twice a year to elementary and secondary students, the program honors the quiet determination behind the scenes: the extra time spent studying, the perseverance through challenges, and the steady commitment to personal growth.

Once again, a familiar and cherished presence helped guide the event. Serving as master of ceremonies, Rotarian Tommy Thomas brought his trademark warmth, enthusiasm, and genuine heart to the program. His connection to the event runs deep, and his ability to connect with students and families alike continues to make the ceremony feel both meaningful and personal.

Sharing a special message on behalf of the Citrus County School Board, Chairman Joe Faherty encouraged students to continue making good choices, reminding them that today’s decisions shape tomorrow’s opportunities. Drawing from his own journey growing up in New York City, he spoke candidly about the challenges young people can face and the importance of staying on the right path. He shared how he followed in his father’s footsteps into law enforcement, serving as a Citrus County Sheriff’s Deputy and later as a School Resource Officer. In those roles, he not only protected students but also mentored them directly, reinforcing his message that character, discipline, and positive influences are key to long-term success.

One of the most powerful moments of the morning came from guest speaker Charlotte Opall, whose story captured the very essence of Upward Bound. Standing before this year’s recipients, she reflected on her own experience receiving the award at just 11 years old, a moment she described as life-changing.

“It was one of the first times in my life that I had ever been recognized, not just for what I had already accomplished, but for what someone believed I could become.”

That belief, she explained, became a turning point. “At such a young age, being told that I had potential helped me begin to believe in myself.” What followed was a steady climb defined by effort, discipline, and a willingness to embrace challenge.

Now a senior in the prestigious International Baccalaureate program at Lecanto High School, Charlotte has been accepted to the University of Florida, where she plans to major in biological sciences. Along the way, she immersed herself in leadership and service, carrying forward a lesson she emphasized to the audience: “Success is not just about personal achievement. It’s about giving back.”

Her message to this year’s students was both direct and deeply encouraging. “You are sitting here today because someone saw something in you that you may not even fully see in yourself yet. That belief is powerful, but it only matters if you choose to act on it.”

She urged them to stay consistent in their effort, even when the path becomes difficult. “Keep showing up, even when it’s hard. Keep putting in effort, even when no one is watching. Growth doesn’t happen all at once. It happens in the small decisions you make every day to keep going.”

Perhaps her most resonant reminder was also her simplest: “This recognition is not just about what you have done; it is about what you are capable of becoming.”

The success of Upward Bound is never the result of a single effort. It is built on a strong foundation of partnerships and shared commitment. The Citrus County Rotary Clubs remain the enduring heartbeat of the initiative, continuing to carry forward Ray Darling’s vision through both support and belief in students’ potential.

Community partners also play a vital role in making the event special each year. A heartfelt thank you goes to Oysters of Crystal River and its owner, William Bunch, whose generosity ensures that students, families, and educators are welcomed with a warm breakfast and a sense of community. Likewise, the team at the Citrus Springs Community Center continues to provide a welcoming and well-organized space where these important moments can unfold.

As the ceremony concluded and the applause faded, Charlotte left the students with one final thought that perfectly captured the spirit of the day: “Someone believes in you. Now it’s your turn to believe in yourself.”

This year’s ceremonies may be over, but the mission continues. Upward Bound remains a living message that success is accessible to every student. As this year’s recipients step forward, they do so with more than recognition. They carry with them belief, momentum, and the support of a community that stands firmly behind them.

Thank you, Citrus County Rotary Clubs and Rotarians, for your continued support of Upward Bound.

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Health Academy Senior Earns Early Acceptance to Dental School

Posted on April 17th, 2026 by

Health Academy Senior Earns Early Acceptance to Dental School

The Citrus County Class of 2026 continues to prove itself a remarkable cohort of individuals, students who have navigated change, challenge, and opportunity with resilience and purpose. Among them, one story stands out as a powerful intersection of academic excellence, personal determination, and a clear sense of mission.

Jeremiah “Jerry” Randall, a standout senior in the Biomedical pathway at the Academy of Health Careers and a leader at Crystal River High School, received life changing news today. He has been officially accepted into the Early Acceptance Program, EAP, for the LECOM School of Dental Medicine.

For those unfamiliar, the EAP is far more than a standard college admission. It is a rigorous and highly competitive 4+4 pathway that links a student’s undergraduate studies directly to medical school. In Jerry’s case, that journey begins at Florida Southern College and leads straight into LECOM. By securing this opportunity as a high school senior, Jerry has successfully navigated one of the most selective pipelines in higher education. He has effectively reserved his future as a Doctor of Dental Medicine while bypassing a national pool of thousands of applicants.

A Foundation of Excellence

To understand why Jerry was selected for such an elite program, one can look at the numbers, though they tell only part of the story. Ranked second in a class, he holds a perfect 4.0 unweighted GPA and an extraordinary 4.761 weighted GPA. He is not simply completing a demanding curriculum of Advanced Placement and honors level courses. He is mastering it.

His honors include Biomedical Student of the Year and AP Scholar with Distinction, recognitions that reflect a student who sees rigor not as a barrier but as an opportunity.

Yet the LECOM EAP seeks more than academic performance. It looks for a problem based and forward thinking mindset. Jerry exemplifies this. He has already earned professional credentials as a Biotechnician Assistant and a Certified Medical Administrative Assistant through the Academy of Health Careers at CRHS. His versatility extends even further. He earned an Apprentice Architectural Drafter Certification as a sophomore and achieved back to back first place finishes in Physics at the District Science Fair.

Purpose Forged in Adversity

What truly distinguishes Jerry, however, is the why behind his achievements.

In healthcare, many students are drawn by prestige or aptitude. Jerry’s motivation runs deeper. He understands that dentistry is not just about teeth. It is a critical gateway to overall health. Inspired by his childhood dentist’s stories of service and global outreach, Jerry envisions a future where he can combine clinical excellence with meaningful service to others.

Leadership Beyond the Classroom

Ask his teachers or teammates, and they will tell you that Jerry’s impact is felt most strongly through his leadership.

As Captain of the Boys Varsity Swim Team and a four year regional finalist, he has demonstrated discipline and perseverance in and out of the pool. Perhaps the clearest reflection of his character is his recognition as the first recipient of the Capt. Thomas T. Holme Jr. Honor Award.

This distinction is not awarded for speed or scores. It honors the senior who exemplifies teamwork, integrity, and leadership that endures beyond competition. Whether leading Rise Against Hunger initiatives as President of the Interact Club or serving as an Academy Ambassador, Jerry consistently models what it means to be a servant leader.

The Road Ahead

This fall, Jerry will head to Lakeland to join Florida Southern College as a Biology major on the Pre Dental track. There, he will continue his journey in an environment that reflects his commitment to academic excellence and community service.

With his place in LECOM already secured, Jerry can focus fully on deep learning and clinical preparation, confident that the next step toward his future is already in place.

As he moves forward, Jerry carries more than an impressive resume. He carries the pride of a community, the resilience shaped by personal challenges, and the determination of a scholar athlete ready to make a lasting impact on the field of dental medicine.

Congratulations, Jerry. Citrus County is proud of you, and the future of healthcare is brighter because of your dedication.

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Blue and Green Jackets, Bright Futures: Celebrating the Heart of Citrus County Agriculture

Posted on April 16th, 2026 by

Blue and Green Jackets, Bright Futures: Celebrating the Heart of Citrus County Agriculture

One of the greatest privileges I have as a school board member is participating in our opening exercises. Twice each year, I have the opportunity to invite students and educators into the board chambers to begin our meeting, and without fail, those moments serve as a powerful reminder of why we do this work. This month’s opening exercises, held just after the Citrus County Fair, were especially meaningful.

As I looked out across the room, I saw a sea of blue and green jackets filling the chambers. The iconic blue corduroy jackets of FFA and the green of 4-H represented something far deeper than organizations. They represented commitment, discipline, leadership, and a connection to a way of life that has long been a cornerstone of Citrus County.

The 2026 Citrus County Fair was, once again, a tremendous success. In our community, it has become both an expectation and a point of pride to align the fair with our spring break. For many, spring break is a time to rest, travel, and recharge. But for a dedicated group of students, educators, and volunteers, it is anything but a break. Our FFA members, their sponsors, agricultural educators, and our 4-H families spend that week working tirelessly, caring for animals, preparing projects, and representing months of effort and dedication.

During the opening exercises, we had the privilege of hearing directly from our agriculture teachers, advisors, and students from across Citrus County. Their stories were nothing short of inspiring.

At Citrus High School, under the leadership of Paul Spalding, students demonstrated excellence both in and out of the ring. Chapter president Nicole Secor recently took the oath to serve in the United States Marine Corps, while also helping lead a pig project to a third-place finish in just a week and a half. Vice President Lillian Slusser earned acceptance to NOVA in Fort Lauderdale, where she will conduct research at the Guy Harvey Research Center, and she also secured first place with her Flemish Giant rabbit. Secretary Andrew Manella brought home a Grand Champion title for his poultry.

Crystal River High School, led by Samantha Longfellow, celebrated major achievements as well. Their chapter earned Grand Champion County Bred Steer and Reserve Grand Champion for their layers. Just as importantly, Ms. Longfellow highlighted the wide range of futures her students are pursuing, including one senior headed to flight school to become a pilot.

At Lecanto High School, Steve Richardson, a longtime educator, spoke about the deeper lessons his students learn. Beyond the ribbons and awards, these programs instill responsibility, confidence, and pride. His students, whom he affectionately refers to as “dirt farmers,” are learning how to represent their community with integrity and hard work.

Our middle school programs are just as impressive. At Lecanto Middle School, Jennifer English shared the long-term impact of agricultural education, including the success of former students who have gone on to achieve at high levels. She also emphasized the importance of community support, particularly through the Citrus County Education Foundation, which provides critical resources for these programs.

Crystal River Middle School, led by Beth Cooper, is already making its mark. In her first year, her Milk Quality and Products team placed fifth in the state. Students also earned multiple Grand Champion showmanship awards across various categories, demonstrating both skill and dedication.

Inverness Middle School, under Scott Stepper, showcased remarkable achievements as well. One sixth-grade student raised a steer that graded as Prime Beef, a distinction achieved by less than eight percent of beef nationwide. Other students successfully participated in livestock showing for the very first time, gaining confidence and experience that will carry forward.

Dr. Marnie Ward, representing 4-H through the UF Extension Office, reminded us of the tremendous amount of work that happens behind the scenes. Record books, educational meetings, and the daily feeding, grooming, and care of animals all require discipline and perseverance. Her personal story, with all three of her children now attending the University of Florida College of Agriculture, stands as a testament to the lasting impact of these programs.

The FFA Organization is a dynamic youth leadership organization that prepares students for both academic and career success through agricultural science education. It is rooted in personal growth, premier leadership, and exposure to diverse career pathways, from traditional farming to biotechnology and agribusiness. Similarly, 4-H stands as one of the premier youth development organizations in the country, providing hands-on learning experiences in STEM, agriculture, and healthy living. Together, these programs equip students with real-world skills and a sense of responsibility that will serve them for a lifetime.

Agriculture is not just a part of Citrus County’s history. It is a vital part of our future. That future is already taking shape in exciting ways, including the launch of the Agri-STEAM Academy at Floral City Elementary. This innovative program blends agriculture with science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics, creating a hands-on learning environment where students engage directly with the world around them. From planting and harvesting to problem-solving and creative exploration, students are developing skills that will prepare them for an ever-changing world.

As I reflect on the opening exercises, I am reminded that success cannot always be measured by test scores alone. It is found in early mornings at the barn, in the responsibility of caring for an animal, in the confidence built through competition, and in the pride of representing your school and community.

Our FFA and 4-H students are truly extraordinary. They embody the values that make Citrus County strong. We are deeply grateful to their educators, their families, and the many volunteers who support them.

And for me, standing in that room surrounded by blue and green jackets, there is no clearer reminder of the importance of investing in our students and the bright future that lies ahead.

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Leading with Excellence: Celebrating the Lecanto High School IB Class of 2026

Posted on April 15th, 2026 by

Leading with Excellence: Celebrating the Lecanto High School IB Class of 2026

There are moments in a school year that feel routine, and then there are moments that remind you exactly why schools matter so deeply. The Lecanto High School IB Diploma Candidate Banquet honoring the Class of 2026 was unmistakably the latter. It was an evening filled with pride, gratitude, laughter, and reflection, a celebration not only of academic achievement, but of growth, resilience, and community.

As the evening unfolded, it became clear that no student reaches this level of accomplishment alone. The recognition of parents, guardians, and families highlighted the steady support systems behind each student’s success. These are the individuals who encouraged late nights, supported early mornings, and believed in their students through every challenge. This partnership between school and home, though often unseen, is essential to every achievement celebrated that evening.

Equally important was the collective impact of educators and leadership. The IB program is demanding by design, but it is teachers who bring it to life by challenging, guiding, and inspiring students beyond the curriculum. Their influence shapes not only academic success, but also personal growth. At the same time, strong leadership at both the school and district levels ensures that programs like this continue to thrive.

And then, there was the Class of 2026.

The International Baccalaureate program cultivates critical thinking through two specialized pathways: the Diploma Programme, which offers a rigorous, multidisciplinary academic foundation, and the Career-related Programme, which pairs IB’s high standards with practical, industry-focused training. Both tracks move beyond rote memorization, challenging students to analyze complex global issues and apply inquiry-based learning to real-world situations. This comprehensive approach ensures graduates are not only prepared for college, but also equipped with the adaptable, leadership-oriented mindset needed in today’s workforce.

When discussing college and career readiness, this class provides clear and compelling evidence. The outcomes shared during the evening were extraordinary. At the University of Florida, where the general acceptance rate is approximately 19 percent, an impressive 55 percent of Lecanto’s IB seniors were accepted. At Florida State University, where the statewide average is around 25 percent, this class achieved a remarkable 65 percent acceptance rate. These figures reflect a level of preparation, discipline, and academic excellence that sets this group apart.

Beyond these flagship universities, the success of this class extends across a wide range of postsecondary opportunities. Students have earned admission to the University of South Florida, the University of Central Florida, the University of Miami, and the prestigious Culinary Institute of America. Notably, members of this class also received appointments to the United States Naval Academy and the United States Coast Guard Academy, along with an Ivy League acceptance. These accomplishments demonstrate that this group does more than meet expectations; they consistently exceed them.

The accomplishments of this class are, quite simply, remarkable. From National Merit recognition to acceptance into highly selective institutions, these students have established a standard of excellence. Their college acceptance rates far exceed state averages, and their representation across top universities is both broad and impressive.

This year also marked a historic milestone for Lecanto High School. For the first time, the school celebrated graduates from both the IB Diploma Programme and the IB Career-related Programme. This achievement reflects a commitment to expanding opportunities and meeting students where they are, providing pathways that align with their individual goals and aspirations.

What makes their success even more meaningful is the diversity of paths they have chosen. Some are pursuing traditional academic routes, others are entering specialized programs such as the Culinary Institute of America, and some have committed to serving their country through military enlistment or academy appointments. Each path reflects purpose, and each deserves recognition.

Throughout the evening, the tone shifted from formal to lighthearted during the student and teacher superlative awards. These moments brought laughter and personality into the celebration, highlighting the relationships and shared experiences that define the high school journey. Each award reflected not only individual traits, but also the strong sense of community within the program.

The teacher awards were equally meaningful, offering insight into how students view the educators who have influenced them most. Selected by students, these recognitions honored not only teaching ability, but also character, humor, and authenticity. They served as a powerful reminder that the most impactful educators leave lasting impressions far beyond the classroom.

One of the most meaningful moments of the evening was the presentation of the Lecanto High IB Award for Educational Excellence to founding IB Director Mr. Darrick Buettner. His vision and leadership established the foundation for everything being celebrated. The program’s success is rooted in his belief that Lecanto students were capable of more, and in his determination to turn that belief into reality. Superintendent Dr. Scott Hebert was also recognized for his continued support of the IB program and its students.

The keynote address was delivered by Kaileigh Moran, a member of the Lecanto High School IB Class of 2025, who is currently pursuing a pre-med track at the University of South Florida. Her message was both practical and inspiring, offering meaningful guidance and encouragement to the Class of 2026 as they prepare for the next chapter of their journey.

In closing, Principal Troy LaBarbara challenged students to remain focused and committed as they move forward. He also recognized the exceptional leadership of IB Coordinator Dr. Ashley Shidner, whose work, alongside the entire IB team, recently guided the program through a comprehensive Programme Evaluation. This rigorous, year-long process ensures alignment with the highest International Baccalaureate standards. Its successful completion reaffirms Lecanto High School’s commitment to excellence, continuous improvement, and student success.

As the evening came to a close, there was a strong sense of both celebration and reflection. Moments like this are not just about marking the end of a journey, but about recognizing the effort it took to get there and the opportunities that lie ahead. The Class of 2026 has proven they are ready, leaving Lecanto High School not only with impressive accomplishments, but with the skills, mindset, and character to make a meaningful impact. No matter where their paths lead, they carry with them the pride and support of a community that will continue to cheer them on.

Congratulations to the Lecanto High School IB Class of 2026.

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