Memorial Day: A Tribute to the Fallen Heroes

Today is our great country’s Memorial Day, rooted in Decoration Day, a tradition that emerged after the American Civil War. The immense loss of life on both sides of the conflict led to local observances across the country, involving the decoration of soldiers’ graves with flowers and wreaths, symbolizing the nation’s gratitude and respect.

Decoration Day’s origins can be traced back to 1868 when General John Logan, leader of the Grand Army of the Republic, a prominent veterans organization, issued a proclamation for a nationwide Decoration Day on May 30th. This date was chosen because it wasn’t associated with any particular Civil War battle, allowing for universal commemoration. The first large-scale Decoration Day took place that year at Arlington National Cemetery, where thousands gathered to honor Union and Confederate soldiers. The tradition quickly spread throughout the United States.

Over time, Decoration Day evolved into Memorial Day, expanding to honor all American service members who died defending the nation. In 1971, Memorial Day was declared an official federal holiday, and the observance date was moved to the last Monday in May, creating a three-day weekend for Americans. This shift aimed to provide a dedicated time for reflection and remembrance, while also allowing families to gather, attend parades, and participate in community activities.

While Memorial Day is often seen as the unofficial start of summer, its true purpose is to remember the sacrifices made by those who served. Honoring Memorial Day is not only an act of remembrance but also essential for educating our young people about the cost of freedom. By teaching them about the sacrifices made by our service members, we foster patriotism and a responsibility to uphold the values for which these heroes fought. This education is taken seriously in our schools and homes, vital for instilling in the next generation an appreciation for the freedoms they enjoy and the importance of preserving them.

Citrus County Schools stands out in its commitment to honoring veterans and educating students about their sacrifices. As the first Purple Heart School District in the country, Citrus County Schools, along with all our schools being Florida Purple Star Schools, has set a precedent for recognizing and valuing the contributions of our military personnel. This designation signifies a deep respect for veterans and a dedication to ensuring their legacy is remembered by future generations.

I am proud of the programs and initiatives within Citrus County Schools designed to instill an understanding of the bravery and dedication of our fallen heroes. By engaging students in activities and lessons that highlight the importance of Memorial Day, the district helps to ensure the sacrifices of our service members are never forgotten. These efforts not only honor the past but also inspire a sense of duty and respect in our youth, shaping them into responsible and patriotic citizens.

As we observe Memorial Day, let us reflect on the true meaning of the holiday. While we enjoy time with our families and participate in community events, let us also remember the brave individuals who gave their lives for our freedom. Their ultimate act of service is the foundation of the liberties we cherish, and it is our responsibility to honor their memory.

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CRHS Class of 2024 Graduation

Today, I had the honor of participating in the Crystal River High School Class of 2024 graduation ceremony. It was a momentous occasion, celebrating the achievements of our Pirate graduates. As the graduates marched to the stirring notes of “Pomp and Circumstance,” played beautifully by the CRHS Band under the direction of Mr. Charles Ramsey, a sense of pride and accomplishment filled the air.

The ceremony began with a special acknowledgment and heartfelt thank you to the Honorable Virginia “Ginger” Bryant, a dedicated public servant who will retire at the end of her school board term in November 2024. NJROTC Senior Naval Instructor CWO5 Liz Rivera, USN (Ret.), led the tribute. Ms. Bryant, a CRHS Pirate alumna (Class of 1965), has devoted 54 years to education, including 30 years as an English and reading teacher at Crystal River Middle School, followed by 24 years as a school board member. Her tenure makes her the longest-serving elected school board member in Citrus County’s history. In recognition of her service, Warrant Officer Rivera presented Ms. Bryant with a beautiful bouquet of flowers, thanking her for her unwavering dedication. Ms. Bryant has profoundly impacted countless students, and the entire CRHS Pirate and Crystal River community expressed their gratitude.

The graduation ceremony featured inspiring speeches from several notable students. Senior Class President Michael Miller delivered a touching message and presented a beautiful bouquet of flowers to Superintendent Sandra “Sam” Himmel. This graduation marks the last time Superintendent Himmel will preside over a ceremony at Crystal River High School. Michael praised her for her 20 years of dedicated service, stating, “She always has a smile on her face. Most importantly, she puts students first. She cares about us. She cares about teachers and staff. She cares about the entire community. Our district is absolutely blessed to have her as our superintendent. Let’s give her a huge round of applause.” The audience responded with resounding applause, acknowledging Superintendent Himmel’s significant contributions.

Savannah Lewis delivered the Reflections speech, sharing her thoughts on the journey the graduates have taken together. Aida Canetti gave the Vision speech, drawing inspiration from a famous quote by Rocky Balboa: “It ain’t about how hard you hit; it’s about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward. How much you can take and keep moving forward. That’s how winning is done.” Aida encouraged her classmates to remember that with hard work and perseverance, they could achieve anything. “No dream is too far for you to reach, no challenge is too hard for you to overcome, and no goal is too difficult for you to try,” she said.

We also want to thank the educators, staff, volunteers, mentors, family members, and the community, all of whom played vital roles in supporting the graduates. Their collective efforts have helped shape the students into the accomplished individuals they are today.

As tradition dictates, the CRHS graduation ceremony concluded with the singing of the school’s Alma Mater, a moment that always resonates deeply with attendees. The event culminated in the firing of the famous CRHS Pirate cannon, sending Superintendent Himmel and the Honorable Ginger Bryant off with a literal and figurative “bang.”

Congratulations to all our graduates! We are incredibly proud of your achievements and excited for the bright futures that lie ahead. May you continue to strive for excellence and carry the spirit of the CRHS Pirates with you wherever you go.

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WTC Class of 2024 Graduation

Today, we gathered at the Curtis Peterson Auditorium in Lecanto to celebrate the achievements of the Withlacoochee Technical College (WTC) graduating Class of 2024. This year’s ceremony honored both Industry Certification and licenses program completers, as well as General Educational Diploma (GED) graduates. The event was a testament to the dedication, hard work, and perseverance of these students who have equipped themselves with the skills and knowledge to enter the workforce and contribute to their communities.

The ceremony was a vibrant and uplifting event, filled with proud family members, friends, and educators who came together to recognize the accomplishments of the graduates. The graduates walked across the stage, received their certificates, and were met with cheers and applause from the audience. Each graduate’s journey to this point has been unique, marked by personal challenges and triumphs, making their success even more significant.

Among the graduates were those who completed programs in Applied Cybersecurity, Network Systems Administration, Automotive Service Technology, Applied Information Technology, Technology Support Services, Cosmetology, Electricity, Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning/Refrigeration (HVAC/R), Industrial Machinery Controls Technician, Medical Assisting, Professional Culinary Arts & Hospitality, and Welding Technology. These programs are designed to provide students with hands-on experience and industry-relevant skills, ensuring they are well-prepared to meet the demands of their chosen fields.

For businesses seeking qualified, ready-to-work individuals, the WTC Class of 2024 represents a pool of talented and motivated professionals. Each graduate has undergone rigorous training and has demonstrated a commitment to excellence. Employers looking to enhance their teams with skilled workers should consider reaching out to these new professionals. The practical experience and certifications these graduates have earned make them valuable assets to any organization.

The GED graduates were also celebrated for their determination to complete their high school education. For many, earning a GED is a significant milestone that opens doors to further education and career opportunities. The support from instructors, family, and friends has played a crucial role in their success, and today’s ceremony was a celebration of their hard work and resilience.

The event highlighted the importance of technical education and the vital role it plays in building a skilled workforce. As the graduates embark on the next phase of their careers, they carry with them the knowledge and confidence gained at WTC. The community looks forward to seeing the positive impact these individuals will make in their respective industries.

Today’s WTC graduation ceremony at the Curtis Peterson Auditorium was a proud moment for the WTC Class of 2024. As they step into their professional lives, these graduates are ready to contribute their skills and expertise to the workforce. Businesses in search of dedicated and well-trained individuals need look no further than this talented group of new professionals. Congratulations to all the graduates on their well-deserved success!

WTC CTE Graduates

Applied Cybersecurity Instructor Keith Consol

• Andrew Annand
• Michael Peterson
• Matthew Howard
• Timothy Dottillis
• David McDonald
• Brian Ball
• Robert Merkle
• Chellam Spruill
• Joshua Owens
• Ronald Williams

Network Systems Administration Instructor Keith Consol

• Brandi Baldwin
• Nathaniel Moore
• Matthew Henshaw
• Matthew Thornton
• James Johnson
• Richard Tincher

Automotive Service Technology Instructor Robert Irving

• Jonathan Cano-Cifuentes
• Matthew Ives
• Matthew Johnston
• David McQueen
• Samuel Moore
• Zytavian Simon
• Jason Weber

Applied Information Technology Instructor Andy Dillersberger

• Amya Costa
• Nolan Cyr
• Matthew Spivey

Technology Support Services Instructor Andy Dillersberger

• Tristan Collop
• Thomas Cronk
• Tyler Richardson

Cosmetology Instructors Keri Mintz & Brittany Richards

• Jolie Achille-Wilkes
• Ka’Shyla McKinnon
• Brooke Bailey
• Sagen Mills
• Alyssa Deskins
• Olívia Rojas
• Madison Gurganus
• Kasandra Ross
• Ava King
• Zerrin Saglam
• Lauren King
• Shaylee Schippers
• Nicole Krutchenko
• Kimberly Valente
• Madison McErlean
• Falynn Vincent
• Gwyneth Lewis

Electricity Instructor John Woythaler

• Michael Arrington
• Zachary Cope
• Skyler Embry
• Jared Gaines
• Jack Grayson
• Adan Guzman-Villalpando
• Sawyer Hawthorne
• Brandon Rogers
• Hayden Shiver

Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning/Refrigeration Instructor Michael Cambo

• Cory Absmeier
• Curtis Lafferty
• Aaron Doody
• Travis Maupin
• Gavyn Hans
• Jake Welzel
• Kiontae Harvey

Industrial Machinery Controls Technician Instructor Thomas Fissore

• Justin Bedford
• Jackson Jenkins
• Kevin Forgione
• Dennis Leigh
• Nathaniel Gant
• Jamie Sizemore
• Jonathan Gill
• Luke Smith
• Timothy Gullo
• Patricia Stratton
• Travis Hasty
• Matthew Wilson
• James Hill
• Brendan Yardy

Medical Assisting Instructor Pam Carnevale

• Jennifer Crupi
• Virginia Gleason
• Honor Griffin
• Kelly Redman
• Madisyn Wall

Professional Culinary Arts & Hospitality Instructor Nick DiGeloromo

• Christi Andruss
• Lily Hamelin
• Kai Bond
• Cheyene Henderson
• Nicholas DiMarco-Mattos
• Draven Kern
• Austin Fox
• Nicolina Ramirez
• Mindy Gray
• Erika Stacy

Welding Technology Instructors J Shilling & Bradley Walker

• Lillian Ahrendt
• Michael Fox
• Seth Archer
• James Morgan
• Micheal Arena
• Wyatt Nixon
• Ty Conard
• Jose Sanchez-Nieves
• Evan Copp
• Shayla Weise
• Matthew Engelsen
• Elliott Willard
• Thaxton Fitts

WTC GED® Graduates

• Lillian Berger
• Hunter Hodge
• Ali-Marielize Berrios
• Daniel Jenkins
• George Betancourt
• Landen Jenkins
• Chloe Campbell
• Julien Johnson
• Issach Canning
• Ladarius McKinnon
• Jami Cannizzo
• Barbara Miner
• Alexander Davis
• Hannah Monroe
• Kamren Dulabahn
• Hanna Seely
• Iman Ford
• Christian Smith
• Brian Gaudette
• Gabriella Smith
• Travis Hartong
• John Chandler Thomas
• Kiley Hickman
• Savannah Vicari
• Seth Hill
• Taesean Williams

GED Instructors

• Pamela Marshall
• Sheryl Pineau
• Melanie Cummins
• Ty Hamilton
• Christina Burdick

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