112th Congress
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Elizabeth Okerstrom Murguia of Eureka, California on the occasion of her retirement after more than 35 years of extraordinary public service for the people of California's North Coast.
Born and raised in beautiful rural Mendocino County, Liz's parents, Merle and Astrid Okerstrom, instilled in her a deep appreciation for the important things in life: family, community, and civic engagement. From age 10 and on, Liz was raising ``Dollars for Democrats'' and serving in student government, paving the way for a long career in public service.
“Our debt crisis is a serious problem. If our country is going to remain financially solvent, we need to take concrete action to decrease spending, increase saving, and balance the budget. But it's important that we accomplish these goals in the right way.
Damages to the entire state had to exceed $44 million in order to qualify for federal assistance. California Emergency Management Agency representatives said the state sustained $48,147,098 in total damages when tsunami surges rocked coastal cities March 11.
Lori Newquist, spokesperson for Cal EMA, said Crescent City alone represents about 43 percent of the state's damage estimate.
Clear Lake State Park Interpretive Association President Madelene Lyon not only officially handed over the seven-year labor of love to State Parks Director Ruth Coleman, she also topped off the gift with a hug.
“I think it is a very slippery slope we are going down today,” Rep. Mike Thompson (D-Calif.) said during a contentious House hearing.
Republicans on two House Ways and Means subcommittees called the hearing to grill AARP executives about the group's financial practices and whether it deserves to keep its tax-exempt status.
The funds, which are provided through the Department of Homeland Security's Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) program, will preserve public safety and create good-paying jobs.
“During these tough economic times, one of the things we can't afford to cut is funding for our firefighters and first responders,” said Rep.
The EAS, the Essential Air Service program, is necessary to provide air service into our country's most rural communities.
“Over 7 million Americans live or vacation in coastal communities that are at-risk of experiencing a tsunami,” said Rep. Thompson.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 45th anniversary of the Humboldt Arts Council in Humboldt County, California.