Florida Senate - 2021 (NP) SR By Senator Cruz 18-03955-21 20212060__ CODING: Words stricken are deletions; words underlined are additions. Senate Resolution A resolution commending the Tampa Bay Lightning for the team’s victory in the National Hockey League’s 3 Stanley Cup Final. 4

WHEREAS, on September 28, 2020, the Tampa Bay Lightning won the National Hockey League’s Stanley Cup Final, which, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, took place in Edmonton, Alberta, 8 Canada, and

WHEREAS, the Lightning defeated the Western Conference Champion Dallas Stars in the Cup Final, clinching the series 4 wins to 2, and

WHEREAS, Tampa Bay defenseman Victor Hedman was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player in the playoffs after scoring goals, including game-winners, and finishing with points in games, and

WHEREAS, the Stanley Cup is the second NHL Championship won by the Lightning in the organization’s history since its inception in 1992, with the first coming in 2004, and

WHEREAS, Tampa Bay won the Prince of Wales Trophy as the NHL’s Eastern Conference Champion, for the third time in franchise history, by defeating the New York Islanders to advance to the Lightning’s third appearance in the Stanley Cup Final, and

WHEREAS, the Lightning showed resilience and sacrifice during the COVID–19 pandemic by competing in the delayed playoff tournament in secure zones, away from family and sequestered from outsiders for months, and

WHEREAS, millions of “Bolts” fans in the Tampa Bay Area and Florida Senate - 2021 (NP) SR 2060 18-03955-21 20212060__ CODING: Words stricken are deletions; words underlined are additions. across the world watched from safe, socially distanced viewing parties as the Lightning players lifted the Stanley Cup on television, and

WHEREAS, the Lightning organization is also known for its work off the ice in the community, providing vital financial, 34 logistical, and programming support that touches millions across this state,

NOW, THEREFORE, 36