HONORING DARIO AND HUNNIE EMANS AS DISTINGUISHED LEADERS IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR CARIBBEAN HERITAGE MONTH

On 2026-06-29, Representative Darren Soto (D-FL-9) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING DARIO AND HUNNIE EMANS AS DISTINGUISHED LEADERS IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR CARIBBEAN HERITAGE MONTH" in the House.

HONORING DARIO AND HUNNIE EMANS AS DISTINGUISHED LEADERS IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR CARIBBEAN HERITAGE MONTH

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 108 (Monday, June 29, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 108 (Monday, June 29, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E628] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING DARIO AND HUNNIE EMANS AS DISTINGUISHED LEADERS IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR CARIBBEAN HERITAGE MONTH ______ HON. DARREN SOTO of florida in the house of representatives Monday, June 29, 2026 Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Dario and Hunnie Emans as Distinguished Leaders in Central Florida for Caribbean Heritage Month. Dario and Hunnie Emans are respected entrepreneurs whose dedication to small business development and community engagement has contributed to economic growth within Florida's 9th Congressional District. Prior to relocating to Florida, both served more than 20 years with the New York City Department of Correction on Rikers Island. Hunnie Emans retired as an Emergency Service Unit (ESU) officer, serving in a specialized unit responsible for emergency response and critical operations. Dario Emans retired as an assistant deputy warden and commanding officer of the Special Operations Division, where he provided leadership and oversight of specialized correctional operations and personnel. Following their retirement, the Emanses redirected their commitment to service toward entrepreneurship by founding Hunnies Body Boutique in St. Cloud, Florida. What began as a personal effort to find natural solutions for family skincare concerns evolved into a successful small business focused on natural wellness and skincare products. Through research, product development, and a dedication to quality, they transformed a home-based venture into a thriving brick-and-mortar boutique serving customers throughout Osceola County and beyond. Under their leadership, Hunnies Body Boutique has become recognized for its commitment to customer education, wellness, and quality products while contributing to the local economy and supporting the continued growth of small businesses within the region. Hunnie Emans is an active member of the St. Cloud Chamber of Commerce and proudly serves as a Chamber Ambassador, helping welcome new businesses, foster professional relationships, and support initiatives that strengthen the local business community. Together, Dario and Hunnie Emans exemplify the values of public service, entrepreneurship, and community involvement. Their combined legacy of service--first through distinguished careers with the New York City Department of Correction and now through their investment in Florida's business community--reflects resilience, leadership, and an enduring commitment to the economic vitality of Florida's 9th Congressional District. ____________________