Andy Harris: “during the last month and a half, the worst of circumstances has summoned the best of humanity. As I have visited…”

“during the last month and a half, the worst of circumstances has summoned the best of humanity. As I have visited emergency operation centers, Red Cross shelters, and temporary housing sites throughout Florida's 13th Congressional District, I have truly been amazed by the courage, determination, and compassion I have witnessed. Just last weekend the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Ney) joined me in visiting some of the worst-hit areas in my district, in DeSoto and Hardee Counties, just hours before Hurricane Jeanne became the third hurricane in 6 weeks to devastate this economically challenged region. And what was the attitude of those residents as a disaster of already historic proportions threatened to become even worse? Not bitterness or even despair, but unbelievable selflessness as they said that they were glad the hurricane approached, as they had lost everything, it would not be damaging anyone else in its wake. Storms like Charley, Frances, Ivan, and Jeanne can destroy the property of our State's valiant people. They can even test Florida's enormous reserve of physical and emotional energy, but they will not break our will or steal our heart. As we consider legislation to assist hurricane victims, may we act in the same spirit and with the same courage and determination.”