Representatives from Red Cross chapters across the Commonwealth gathered for a special ceremony designating March as American Red Cross Month in Pennsylvania.
Senator Baker offered the following remarks:
The American Red Cross has been a life-saver for families across the globe. More than a century ago, it provided life-saving transport for a member of my own family.
When my grandfather contracted malaria in the Spanish-American War, a train flying a Red Cross flag brought him home. That red and white flag still hangs in my office as an enduring symbol of your efforts to prevent and relieve suffering.
In the past year, Mother Nature has reminded us again and again of the reach of the Red Cross. Volunteers have proven themselves to be the gold standard for public service.
In 2011, Pennsylvania had more federal disaster declarations than any other year in history. The destruction of Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee continue to transform our landscape and our lives.
The triple threat of the Japanese earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear disaster were another tragic reminder of the need for eternal preparation, readiness and support.
These and other tragedies have shaped our legislative agenda.
The Senate passed a comprehensive flood recovery package with uncommon speed this past fall. These bills aim to give additional aid to individuals, small businesses, farmers, and public projects.
Yet another bill would create a state disaster assistance program.
We continue working diligently to overhaul Title 35 to strengthen our emergency response network.
While the fear of a lawsuit has discouraged people from intervening in an emergency, action on the Good Samaritan bill will promote expanded use of AED’s and encourage citizens to administer CPR when there are no medical professionals on the scene.
Although the state budget remains tight, the work of the Red Cross and our first responders must be supported. We are grateful for the efforts of partners like you, who intervene where government cannot, and help people pick up the pieces when tragedy strikes.
Whether keeping the nation’s blood supply in healthy quantities, teaching first aid and CPR classes, or giving fire victims clothes and shelter, the Red Cross is a true lifeline.
On behalf of all our neighbors in need and throughout this Commonwealth, I thank you, as a uniquely American institution, for all you have done to help others rise above tragedy.
It was an honor for me to be able to introduce Senate Resolution 261, to designate March 2012 as American Red Cross Month in Pennsylvania. This Commonwealth deeply appreciates your good works, and thanks you for being a friend in times of trouble.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2013 © Senate of Pennsylvania
|
|
Contact: Jennifer Wilson
(570) 675-3931