Andy Harris: “during the last month, the worst circumstances have summoned the best of humanity. Having endured the unrelenting fury…”

“during the last month, the worst circumstances have summoned the best of humanity. Having endured the unrelenting fury of two major hurricanes, Floridians from all walks of life have linked arms in their determined effort to rescue, recover, and rebuild. Moreover, the generous and compassionate soul of America has once again become manifest through the hearts and hands of the volunteers who have traveled hundreds, sometimes thousands, of miles to assist our local first responders. Even before the storms hit, Governor Bush had marshaled the resources necessary to provide victims with rapid assistance. During the grueling aftermath, his reassuring presence throughout the State has served as an essential source of comfort and hope. President Bush and FEMA have likewise delivered a quick and effective response from the Federal level. I particularly wish to commend U.S. Agriculture Secretary Ann Veneman for her swift approval of disaster relief for our farmers and growers. Finally, I wish to thank the gentleman from Florida (Chairman Young) and the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Shaw), our delegation Chair, for their leadership in requesting the President's $2 billion for additional disaster relief funding and look forward to working with our entire State delegation to provide our constituents with the help they so desperately need and deserve.”