PALM HARBOR, Fla. (14 Mar.) -- U.S. Rep. Gus M. Bilirakis (R-Fla.), will be presenting remarks entered in the Congressional Record honoring the work of Dr. Garland Forbes, who has been responsible for organizing and executing his annual "Plant 1,000 Trees Before You Die" observance.

The remarks will be presented to Dr. Forbes on Wednesday, Mar. 19 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the East Lake Woodlands Country Club, 1055 East Lake Woodlands Pkwy in Oldsmar, Florida.

Due to Dr. Forbes's efforts, more than 4,000 trees were distributed in 2007, resulting in more than 7,000 trees total that have now been planted in the Florida Counties of Pasco, Pinellas, Hillsborough, Hernando, and Polk.

"Madame Speaker, Dr. Forbes is a terrific example of how just one person can make a difference both locally and environmentally," said Bilirakis in Congressional remarks submitted into the record. "His service to the community, through his Endodontic services as well as his Plant 1,000 Trees Before You Die initiative truly serve as an inspiration to others. I am delighted today to acknowledge such an influential member of my community, and I hope that the example by which Dr. Forbes leads will serve as an incentive for others to contemplate how they too can serve their communities."

• WHO: Congressman Gus M. Bilirakis (FL-9)
• WHAT: Presentation of Congressional Record Remarks Honoring the Work of Dr. Garland Forbes
• WHEN: Wednesday, March 19, 2008 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
• WHERE: East Lake Woodlands Country Club, 1055 East Lake Woodlands Pkwy, Oldsmar, FL
• CONTACT: For more information about this event, please contact Congressman Gus Bilirakis's Palm Harbor District Office at (727) 773-2871.