Credit Where Credit Is Due

Normally, I don't praise many Democrats. But occasionally, they manage to do something right. In this case Representative Brian Baird sent off this letter to his constituents (I am one of them). To give you a bit of background, Washington state got a nasty storm which resulted in a ton of flooding throughout the area. Here is Representative Baird's response:

Dear Neighbor:

Since the winter storm hit Southwest Washington in early December, I have been home twice to tour the severe flood damage that has adversely impacted our state. During my travels, I met with state and local officials, joined Governor Gregoire in taking an aerial tour of damage in Lewis, Pacific, and Thurston counties, and most importantly I heard from displaced residents who had lost everything from their homes to personal belongings in the flooding. While I was impressed with the morale and can-do spirit of residents impacted by the storm, I know that the road ahead is long – and we must stand together in our journey to rebuild our local infrastructure and communities.

While I continue to work with officials from the Federal Emergency Management Administration and other federal agencies, members of the Washington delegation, and Governor Gregoire, I want the people of Southwest Washington to know that I am here for you. My staff and I stand at the ready to assist you and your families – and we look forward to helping you get the assistance you need to move forward and recover from the storm.

Here are some helpful resources for seeking assistance:

• FEMA Assistance - 1-800-621-FEMA (3362)

• Small Business Administration Assistance – 1-800-659-2955
The SBA provides assistance to those who own or rent a home, business, or agriculture cooperative that has been damaged by the storm.

• American Red Cross disaster hotline – 1-866-GET-INFO (1-866-438-4636)

If you have immediate needs, I encourage you to contact the Red Cross to help put you in touch with local resources. You may also dial 2-1-1 for information about storm-related community resources and services.

If you or anyone you know have been impacted by this storm, please feel free to contact my staff at 1-877-912-2473. I will continue to do everything in my power to make sure our residents return to their homes and that our businesses, schools, and communities are rebuilt.

Sincerely,

Brian Baird
Member of Congress

While it may be a simple gesture, and even possibly an empty one, I doubt you'll see letters like this one from other members of Congress.

Travis

travis@rightwinglunatic.com

Http://forums.rightwinglunatic.com