Joe Wilson: “some 1,500 evacuees from the Gulf Coast, and particularly in New Orleans, are calling Columbia, South Carolina, home…”

“some 1,500 evacuees from the Gulf Coast, and particularly in New Orleans, are calling Columbia, South Carolina, home through the help of a unique grass-roots effort called South Carolina Cares, which combines private, public, and faith- based organizations. I want to extend my thanks to my fellow Congressman, the gentleman from South Carolina (Mr. Clyburn), Columbia Mayor Bob Coble, and University of South Carolina president Andrew Sorensen who worked with the American Red Cross and initiated the effort that now involves thousands of people. At South Carolina Cares, the only rule is the Golden Rule, and fellow citizens are treated as we would like to be treated if we were in this unthinkable situation. As Sam Tenenbaum, chairman of South Carolina Cares said, ``Put yourself in their shoes.'' South Carolina Cares is a model for the Nation, demonstrating how people, companies, and organizations and government at all levels are coming together to help their fellow Americans. They will continue to respond to this crisis with action, compassion, and leadership. In conclusion, God bless our troops and we will never forget September 11. ____________________”