WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Rick Scott announced a resolution honoring the memory of Jereima ‘‘Jeri’’ Bustamante, Senator Scott’s long-time press secretary, who was lost in a tragic accident two years ago today.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Jeri Bustamante was a magnetic force of a person who made the world a brighter place. Words could never do justice to describe her or the impact that she had on the lives of people around her. As my press secretary, she spent practically every day traveling the state to go to events with me and teach me Spanish. It wasn’t an easy job, but she was so talented, hardworking and loved what she did. And despite the long hours and the time spent away from her family, Jeri always had a hand ready to help others and a smile so bright that you couldn’t help but smile too. She was incredibly determined, never met an obstacle she couldn’t overcome or a circumstance she couldn’t make the best of, and she inspired everyone around her to do better and be better. Every day, when I practice my Spanish, I think of her, how she got me to where I am today, and how she always pushed me to keep working hard to learn the language. My team and I are forever grateful that she came into our lives, and while we wish she was still with us, we know she is watching down on us and encouraging us to do more for the state she loved so much. Today, as we honor her memory, I challenge you to be brave, be determined, be courageous, work hard, and most of all, be kind – be like Jeri.”

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