Governor Visits Crystal River and Witnesses Community Spirit

On Sunday afternoon, restaurant patrons, state and local elected officials, and many local community members gathered at the popular Crystal River restaurant, Oysters Of Crystal River, owned by Mr. and Mrs. William Bunch, to greet Florida’s Governor Ron DeSantis. The Governor came to Crystal River to witness firsthand the recovery efforts from Hurricane Idalia.

When I learned of the Governor’s visit, I couldn’t imagine a better place for one of his visits than Oysters. Oysters and the Bunch Family are very special to many of us. Personally, our family has known Mr. and Mrs. Bunch for over 35 years. The deep care that the Bunches have for our local community and its people is evident. We love the Bunches, and it’s abundantly clear that the Bunches love our community. As the Governor arrived, he promptly went around the restaurant, shaking hands, talking to customers, and taking pictures for people. Superintendent Himmel brought her granddaughter to meet the Governor. The granddaughter had been excited about meeting him but became shy and stayed across the room at a table by herself with her head down. The Governor had already begun meeting others, but when we learned that the little girl was hoping to get a photo, the Governor stopped what he was doing, walked back to the table, smiled at her, put his arm around her, and posed for the picture. She had the biggest smile on her face.

The Governor continued to greet people and at one point commented to the group, “Just think, a few days ago, there was several feet of water in here; today, this restaurant is open for business.” Boy, was it. Oysters is always a bustling restaurant, but today it was extra busy, with Mr. and Mrs. Bunch preparing all their delicious foods, while the amazing Oysters waitresses took orders and delivered meals non-stop. Our local State Representative, Dr. Ralph Massullo, and our Florida State Senator Blaise Ingoglia, who were on hand for the Governor’s visit, witnessed the waitresses’ always pleasant and hard work. They were so appreciative of the extra effort required to serve this large group of people that Senator Ingoglia and Dr. Massullo partnered to give each of the waitresses an extra substantial special bonus tip. The ladies were so appreciative as they hugged the two state leaders.

The Governor and his team then went with representatives of the Crystal River City Council to visit our businesses and parts of the city.

Much recovery work still lies ahead, but some recovery is well underway. Sunday once again demonstrated what a special place Citrus County and Crystal River are, and I am grateful that the Governor came and got to see and experience how we can all come together as a community.

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