RECOGNIZING RICKY GUDE, WREC

On 2026-10-09, Representative Gus M. Bilirakis (R-FL-12) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING RICKY GUDE, WREC" in the House.

RECOGNIZING RICKY GUDE, WREC

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 159 (Friday, October 9, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 159 (Friday, October 9, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E1064-E1065] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING RICKY GUDE, WREC ______ HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS of florida in the house of representatives Friday, October 9, 2026 Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to rise today to recognize Mr. Ricky Gude, Team Lead with Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative (WREC), for his outstanding leadership and service as part of WREC's second mission supporting the Light Up Navajo Project. Mr. Gude joined his fellow WREC employees in answering a call that extends far beyond the traditional boundaries of their work. Through the Light Up Navajo initiative, utility professionals volunteer their expertise to help bring electricity to Navajo families who have lived without this basic necessity for generations. As Team Lead, Mr. Gude helped guide WREC's efforts and ensure that this important work was completed safely, professionally, and with the spirit of service that defines our electric cooperative community. For most Americans, flipping a switch and having the lights come on is something we rarely think about. Yet for families without electricity, access to power can be life-changing. It means children can study after dark, families can safely store food and medicine, and elders can enjoy greater safety and comfort in their homes. Mr. Gude and his colleagues chose to put their skills to work on behalf of families far from their own community. Their willingness to serve demonstrates that the cooperative principle of neighbors helping neighbors knows no geographic boundary. I commend Mr. Ricky Gude for his leadership, compassion, and commitment to this worthwhile mission. His service reflects great credit upon WREC and the community we are proud to call home. [[Page E1065]] ____________________