|
 Washington, Feb 27 - The month of February is almost gone, and with it the traditional day set aside for expressing our sentiments to those we love. It’s also the month in which we pay respect to our nation’s Presidents. As Washington’s Birthday, it was the first federal holiday to honor an American citizen. Later, as Washington and Lincoln Day, and since the 1980s as President’s Day, the 3rd Monday in February is an excellent opportunity for our country’s school children to learn more about our nation’s leaders.
Washington Update
H. Con Res. 63 – Iraq War Resolution -- Earlier this month, I chose to support our nation’s troops and their mission in Iraq by casting my vote against the non-binding resolution to “disapprove” of the new strategy for victory in Iraq. Foremost in my mind is the belief that we must be united in a common goal for victory and remember that just as our troops are doing, our enemy is watching our actions in Washington. To quote my friend and Medal of Honor recipient, retired Marine Corps Maj. Gen. James Livingston, “If we do not take them on in Iraq, then we will be forced to fight the enemy here on our homeland.”
H.R. 1137 – Medal of Honor Pension -- As President Bush presented the Medal of Honor to Vietnam helicopter pilot, Lt. Col. Bruce Crandall, USA (Ret.), I joined with Rep. Mike Michaud (D-ME) to introduce legislation that would provide a dramatic increase in the monthly pension provided to the living Medal of Honor recipients, and expand the benefit to the surviving spouses of these courageous patriots. I also support a resolution which would establish an annual National Medal of Honor Day in March.
H. Con Res. 68 – Honoring Gian Carlo Menotti -- On February 1st, the art world lost a great talent and powerful patron. Gian Carlo Menotti, founder of Charleston’s Spoleto Festival, USA, passed away in Monte Carlo at the age of 96. Spoleto USA was a companion to the Festival of Two Worlds which Menotti established in 1958. With the support of the entire South Carolina delegation, I introduced a resolution to honor the life and accomplishments of Gian Carlo Menotti. I look forward to announcing passage of this resolution and the special celebration of Menotti’s life planned for the 2007 Spoleto Festival USA.
H. Res 186 – National Clean Beaches Week -- As a member of the Congressional Coastal Caucus and the Congressional Shellfish Caucus, I am committed to heightening awareness of the value of our beaches and the fragile coastal ecosystems. With my colleague, Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ), we introduced a resolution supporting the goals and ideals of National Clean Beaches Week to recognize the considerable value of American beaches and their role in American culture. For more information on National Clean Beaches Week, which will be observed from June 29th to July 5th, go to the Clean Beaches Council website at www.cleanbeaches.org
Doings in the District
AirTran Announcement -- We welcome the announcement that AirTran Airways will begin service from Atlanta to Charleston International Airport beginning May 24th. As one of the nation’s top tourist destinations, I am encouraged by AirTran’s decision to offer another option for our visitors. This is also great news for area residents seeking economical air travel alternatives. According to AirTran officials, Charleston was among the top responses to their recent online survey that asked consumers, “Where do you want low fares next?”
Spirit of South Carolina Launch -- We also look forward to next month’s launch of the Spirit of South Carolina into Charleston harbor. Mark your calendar for March 4th and hope for fair weather. The South Carolina Maritime Heritage Foundation advises that the best place to view the launch will be aboard a boat, as there is no public access to the S.C. State Port Authority Passenger Terminal. When completed, this majestic tall ship will offer a unique educational opportunity for our state’s students. For more information, visit the Foundation’s site at www.scmaritime.org
Service Academy Nominations -- My office is now accepting nomination applications from individuals who are seeking an appointment to one of the U.S. service academies for the Class of 2012. I urge all interested high school juniors who will graduate in 2008 to consider making an application. The academies offer an excellent opportunity for those willing to rise to the challenges and rigors of a military education. Questions concerning the application process can be directed to Earl Copeland in my Charleston District Office. He can be reached at (843) 747-4175, toll-free at (888) 868-0737, or by e-mail at Earl.Copeland@mail.house.gov. More information is available on my site at www.brown.house.gov
How Can I Be of Service to You?
If you need help with a federal agency, the resources of my office are available to you as a resident of the First Congressional District. Should you be seeking assistance, please do not send an email to my office. You will need to mail or fax a short letter (with all applicable information including your full name, social security number, address, date, your signature and daytime telephone number) to the District Office closer to where you live. To address privacy regulations, you should also include a statement of consent, such as “I authorize you to make an inquiry on my behalf.” My hard-working staff of dedicated professionals is committed to provide the best constituent service possible.
If you are planning a trip to Washington and are interested in Capitol or White House tour information, please contact my Washington Office. That is also the best point of contact if you wish to purchase a U.S. flag. The D.C. staff looks forward to hearing from you.
I continue to solicit your thoughts and comments concerning the issues currently under consideration by the U.S. House of Representatives. Your opinions are important and help me do a better job of representing you. For complete contact information, refer to my web site. The address is www.brown.house.gov.
|
