Press Releases

As we clean-up the remnants of the paper and bows from Holiday gifts, and realize all of the blessings that the season brings, blood transfusion recipients, and their family and friends, take this opportunity to thank blood donors through the annual January celebration of National Blood Donor Month.

Blood bank levels often become critically low during the month of January. Hectic holiday travel schedules, the cold and flu season, and inclement weather often preclude individuals from donating at this time of year. However, the need does not decrease.

"The local farmers who were affected by these freezing temperatures need to know that help my office is here to help them with any assistance they need. We're here to help," said Congressman Bilirakis. "While most were lucky, many farmers were not."

PALM HARBOR, Fla. (3 Jan.) -- In an effort to raise awareness during Blood Donor Awareness Month, U.S. Rep. Gus M. Bilirakis will donate blood at 10 a.m. on Friday, January 4, 2008, at the Florida Blood Services' (FBS) Donor Center located in Hudson at 7214 State Road 52 (just east of U.S. 19).

Throughout the month of January blood transfusion recipients along with their family and friends across the country recognize and thank blood donors through the annual celebration of National Blood Donor Month.

"Today we mourn the loss of a courageous woman who returned to her country to fight for the restoration of democratic rule.

"As Pakistan is gripped with a growing struggle against Islamic extremism and today's senseless murder of such a historic figure as Benazir Bhutto, this nation is now confronted with an even greater challenge to consolidate democracy and restore peace.

"The Pakistani people must not bend to the will of terrorism, and upcoming parliamentary elections must go forward unimpeded by the government or the military."

The $516 billion omnibus spending bill, which includes eleven separate appropriations measures and will fund 14 Cabinet agencies, was approved by the U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of 253-154.

Congressman Bilirakis was dismayed over the way in which the bill was brought up before the House by the Majority.

The fresh food, donated by Florida's farmers, was distributed to local low income families, as well as Medicaid, SSI and food stamp recipients. Today's giveaway is part of a continuous statewide effort by Farm Share, to aid in the recovery, sorting, packing and distribution of nutritious fresh fruits and vegetables considered unsuitable for the retail market due to size or minor blemishes.

"After taking a long hard look at this program, I believe that existing guidelines for issuing and tracking foreign students need improvement," said Bilirakis, who serves on the House Committee on Homeland Security. "The legislation I introduced today would more effectively screen foreign students prior to final adjudication overseas, and require the students to regularly check in with their academic institution once stateside."