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One of the 16 Americans charged in Egypt for promoting democracy and religious freedom is John Tomaszewski, a former staff member for Congressman Bilirakis.
Tomaszewski was in Egypt when a travel ban came into force and was one of six Americans who sought refuge at the American embassy. After the travel ban was released, he recently returned to Washington.
"When service members transition back to civilian life and look to use their hard-earned GI benefits, they deserve to be armed with the best and most complete information to help them decide what institutions will best meet their needs," said Bilirakis, who is Vice Chairman of the Veterans Affairs Committee. "We must make sure they have access to these resources and advice so that the use of their benefit will reflect the most affordable and effective education that will help them find meaningful work."
Earlier this week, Gus met with dignitaries from Tampa Bay Consular Corps and representatives with Hillsborough County to promote economic development and foreign trade opportunities in the region.
As a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Gus understands that increasing foreign trade will support tens of thousands of new jobs in the Tampa Bay area and have a long-term positive impact on the local economy.
Bilirakis is pleased to announce that he is hosting a College Fair from 10 a.m. – noon on Saturday, March 17th, at Palm Harbor University High School, 1900 Omaha Street, in Palm Harbor.
"Simply navigating the maze of the admissions and student financial aid process can make an already anxious situation even more complicated," Bilirakis said. "I understand how stressful this time can be, but examining your options early on can ensure that your child receives the quality education they deserve."
"This is a tragic and despicable incident, and whoever is responsible for this should be ashamed of their actions and brought to justice. Not only did these vandals desecrate the memorials of those who fought and died to protect our freedom, but they targeted individuals simply because of their religious beliefs."
"This is a tragic and despicable incident, and whoever is responsible for this should be ashamed of their actions and brought to justice. Not only did these vandals desecrate the memorials of those who fought and died to protect our freedom, but they targeted individuals simply because of their religious beliefs."
"I am grateful and encouraged by Egypt's decision to lift the travel ban imposed on pro-democracy NGO staff. However, until all charges against the 43 individuals are dropped and they are allowed to return to their work, this situation will not be fully resolved. Egypt is at a pivotal point in its history and with presidential elections approaching, the worthy mission of these dedicated workers who work to promote free and fair elections is more vital than ever."
"America is in a fiscal crisis and this is a time in which every taxpayer dollar must be used efficiently and effectively. This certainly is not the best use of those dollars," Bilirakis said. "Department of Defense dollars should be used to protect our nation, not to entertain detainees."
Bilirakis on Wednesday sent a letter to DOD Secretary Leon Panetta questioning the decision to spend nearly $1 million on these facilities and demanding answers on how DOD funds are tracked to avoid such wasteful spending.
Recently, President Obama released his annual budget proposal. For the fourth straight year, his budget fails to seriously address our nation's debt crisis and calls for higher taxes and increased stimulus spending. This budget punishes small businesses, job creators, and seniors at the expense of the administration's spending addiction. This is not a recipe for long-term economic growth.
Watch Gus talk about the budget on the House Floor here:
This is an opportunity for the community to meet with the Congressman's staff without an appointment and is intended to complement the availability of his district offices in Palm Harbor and Plant City.
Constituents are invited to bring any issues, concerns, or requests for assistance related to Congress and the federal government.
For more information or for immediate assistance, please contact Bilirakis' Palm Harbor office at (727) 773-2871.