Archive for Blog Posts

2026 James & Clarine Kennedy Memorial Scholarship Recipients

Posted on May 6th, 2026 by

2026 James & Clarine Kennedy Memorial Scholarship Recipients

This year, our family had the profound honor of presenting the 2nd Annual James & Clarine Kennedy Memorial Health Care Scholarship at the Crystal River High School Senior Awards Ceremony.

Representing our family was CRHS CTE teacher Bill Linthwaite, a childhood friend and extended family member, who helped announce this year’s recipients in loving memory of my parents, James and Clarine Kennedy.

Established through the Citrus County Education Foundation, this scholarship stands as a lasting tribute to their legacy of faith, service, and dedication to health care. It is awarded to students in the Academy of Health Careers at CRHS, a program especially meaningful to our family, and two Kennedy grandchildren are proud alumni.

This year, we were especially grateful for the opportunity to expand the reach of the scholarship. With great joy, we recognized not just one student, but seven outstanding seniors whose commitment and character reflect the very spirit of this award.

MAIN AWARD | $1,000
Ava Newton will attend the Florida Institute of Technology to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering. She sees the science behind health care not simply as a field of study, but as a pathway to transform lives. Her passion lies in using STEM as the foundation for modern medicine, with goals that include developing new pharmaceuticals and advancing bionic technologies to improve patient outcomes. Her curiosity, academic excellence, and strong sense of purpose reflect both the spirit of this award and the heart of the chemical engineering profession.

RUNNER UP | $750
Jeremiah “Jerry” Randall will attend Florida Southern College to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in pre-dental studies. He has earned acceptance into the Early Acceptance Program for the LECOM School of Dental Medicine, a distinction that reflects both his dedication and preparation. Known for his leadership and genuine compassion, he brings academic discipline and a service-minded character to his future in dentistry.

Keira Elizabeth Lee will attend the University of Florida to pursue a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. For her, veterinary medicine is a calling rooted in advocacy and protection for animals who cannot speak for themselves. She is especially driven to preserve exotic species and improve animal welfare. Her clinical strength, compassion, and determination reflect both her potential and the deeper purpose guiding her path.

HONORABLE MENTION | $500
Lane Komara will attend the University of Florida to pursue a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. He is motivated by the critical connection between animal health and the well-being of agricultural communities. His goal is to provide dependable care to livestock producers and farming families. His work ethic, humility, and resilience form a strong foundation for a life of service in veterinary medicine.

Kaitlyn Smith will attend Fordham University to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Integrative Neuroscience. She is drawn to understanding the complexities of the human brain and neurological disorders. Her aspiration is to become a neurologist who not only treats illness but also advocates for comprehensive and compassionate care. Her initiative, leadership, and academic drive define her commitment to this field.

Jeralyn Marie Lay will attend the Florida Institute of Technology to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a focus on Animal Behavior. She is passionate about improving the mental and behavioral health of animals, including exotic species. Her approach combines compassion with scientific curiosity, reflecting a commitment to healing through behavioral insight and care.

SPECIAL COMMENDATION | $250
Julia Santiago will attend the College of Central Florida to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She is dedicated to pediatric care and aspires to serve communities in need as a travel nurse. Her resilience, maturity, and sense of purpose reflect a deep commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families.

These seven students exemplify the compassion, determination, and dedication that defined the lives of James and Clarine Kennedy. Their commitment to health care not only honors that legacy, but also inspires confidence in a future shaped by capable and caring professionals.

A Legacy of Service and Care

James E. Kennedy Sr. and Clarine Kennedy shared nearly 58 years of marriage and more than five decades of devoted service in health care and health care administration. Their lives were grounded in Christian principles, with a shared commitment to healing, dignity, and service to others.

Clarine Kennedy’s path into nursing was deeply connected to her faith and sense of purpose. She began her studies at Madison SDA College in Madison, Tennessee, before returning to New England to balance family responsibilities and complete her Licensed Practical Nurse certification at the Rhode Island School of Practical Nursing at Kent County Hospital in Warwick, Rhode Island.

Her career reflected both strength and vision. In 1984, she became the first Director of Patient Relations at New England Memorial Hospital in Stoneham, Massachusetts. She later served as Director of Risk Management and Director of Quality Assurance, consistently raising standards, improving care systems, and opening doors for others.

James E. Kennedy Sr. also began his career at Kent County Hospital in the Housekeeping Department. Through steady dedication and quiet leadership, he advanced to Supervisor. His commitment to service extended beyond his civilian work as he also served in the Army National Guard during the Korean War with the 147th AAA Detachment Operations.

In 1977, James became Director of Environmental Services at New England Memorial Hospital, where he played a vital role in maintaining a safe and supportive healing environment. Despite early challenges with severe dyslexia, he never allowed those obstacles to define him. Later in life, he returned to school and completed all coursework toward an associate degree in Business Management at the University of Massachusetts, reflecting his perseverance and commitment to lifelong learning.

Building a Future of Compassionate Care

The James & Clarine Kennedy Memorial Health Care Scholarship continues to grow as a living reflection of a life devoted to service. Each year, it not only honors the past, but also invests in the future by supporting students who are called to care for others through health care.

Our family created this scholarship to recognize more than academic achievement. We seek students who lead with compassion, demonstrate resilience, and are committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. In doing so, each recipient becomes part of a legacy grounded in humility, purpose, and service.

As Ava, Jeremiah, Keira, Lane, Kaitlyn, Jeralyn, and Julia step into this next chapter, we are confident they will carry these values with them and shape the future of health care in impactful ways.

We are deeply grateful to the Citrus County Education Foundation, the Academy of Health Careers at CRHS, and the dedicated educators and mentors who have helped guide these students. This scholarship, and the continued growth of the James & Clarine Kennedy Memorial Endowment, is made possible through the generosity of those who give in honor of my parents. Their support ensures that this mission will continue to expand and inspire.

More than anything, this scholarship stands as a reminder that a life committed to serving others does not end. If you are interested in contributing to the James & Clarine Kennedy Memorial Endowment through the Citrus County Education Foundation—which funds the James & Clarine Kennedy Memorial Health Care Scholarship—tax-deductible donations may be made at https://www.citruseducation.org. Once there, follow the instructions and select James & Clarine Kennedy Memorial Endowment. This endowment supports the Academy of Health Careers at CRHS, advances Career and Technical Education (CTE), and provides scholarships for students pursuing careers in health care or related fields in honor of James and Clarine Kennedy.

 

 

Comments Off on 2026 James & Clarine Kennedy Memorial Scholarship Recipients
Filed under: Blog Posts, News & Updates

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.

Comments Off on Honoring Citrus County’s Fallen Heroes
Filed under: Blog Posts, News & Updates

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.

Comments Off on A Decade of Impact: Celebrating 10 Years of Community and Partnership at the Lecanto YMCA
Filed under: Blog Posts, News & Updates

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.

Comments Off on Another Inspiring Year: Upward Bound Celebrates Growth, Grit, and Potential
Filed under: Blog Posts, News & Updates

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.

Comments Off on Health Academy Senior Earns Early Acceptance to Dental School
Filed under: Blog Posts, News & Updates

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.

Comments Off on Blue and Green Jackets, Bright Futures: Celebrating the Heart of Citrus County Agriculture
Filed under: Blog Posts, News & Updates

« Previous Page — Next Page »