Bilirakis to Host Congressional Hearing on Emergency Preparedness in Clearwater

As Chairman of the Subcommittee on Emergency Preparedness, Response and Communications, Bilirakis is responsible for making sure the country is prepared for potential disasters.

"Communities throughout the U.S. this year have experienced thwarted terrorist plots, severe winter storms, tornadoes, flooding, and a tsunami, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has predicted that we will have an above average hurricane season," Bilirakis said. "We cannot prevent natural disasters from happening, so we must continue to ensure effective preparedness and response efforts for when they do happen."

WHO: Rep. Gus Bilirakis, other Members of Congress
WHAT: Field Hearing, Subcommittee on Emergency Preparedness, Response and Communications
WHEN: Friday, June 10, 10 a.m.
WHERE: Clearwater City Hall, 112 S. Osceola Avenue, Clearwater, Florida 33756

Witnesses Include:

Bryan Koon, Director, Florida Division of Emergency Management

Linda Carbone, CEO, Tampa Bay Chapter of the American Red Cross

Chauncia Willis, Emergency Coordinator, City of Tampa

Jerry Smith, Director, Lake County Emergency Management and President, Florida Emergency Preparedness Association

Nancy Dragani, Executive Director, Ohio Emergency Management Agency, testifying on behalf of the National Emergency Management Association

John E. "Rusty" Russell, Director, Huntsville-Madison County (AL) Emergency Management Agency, testifying on behalf of International Association of Emergency Managers