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    <title>Congresswoman Ros-Lehtinen Blog</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/apps/blog/fl18_ros-lehtinen/index.shtml</link>
    <description>Blog Postings for Congresswoman Ros-Lehtinen Representing the 18th District of Florida</description>
    <language>en-us</language>
    <managingEditor></managingEditor>
    <webMaster>webassistance@mail.house.gov</webMaster>

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    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Green Award ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080512_1954,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>05/12/2008 10:46</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080512_1954,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Welcome</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

I am pleased to take part in the 1st Annual Green Living Awards given<br />out by  the Green Living &amp; Energy Education organization (GLEE) today.<br />GLEE is  recognizing individuals who have employed time and effort in<br />protecting our  lands and waters. Governor Crist, Representative Ron<br />Saunders, and I are all  happy to be this year's honorees.

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    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Housing Stabilization ]]>
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    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080512_1953,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>05/12/2008 10:45</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080512_1953,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Housing</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

Miami-Dade Country ranks in the top five metropolitan counties in the<br />nation  where homes are entering one form or another of foreclosure. This<br />week I  voted in favor of FHA Housing Stabilization and Homeownership<br />Retention Act  to help improve this poor situation. It will allow<br />hard-working American  families to stay in their homes, as well as<br />protect neighborhood and help  stabilize the housing market. This<br />legislation will not reward speculators,  irresponsible borrowers or<br />those who engaged in out-right mortgage fraud. It  will protect those<br />American homeowners who were truly victimized by predatory  lending and<br />by the effects of the market downturn.

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    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Prevent the establishment of a natural gas cartel ]]>
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    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080507_1944,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>05/07/2008 18:38</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080507_1944,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Economy</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<p style="" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">A year ago, I wrote a letter to Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, urging the administration to &quot;make every effort to prevent this politically driven threat to the world's energy supply from being created.&quot;<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>I cited <st1:country-region w:st="on">Russia</st1:country-region>'s use of its energy supplies to put political pressure on its Westward-looking former allies like <st1:country-region w:st="on">Ukraine</st1:country-region> and <st1:country-region w:st="on">Georgia</st1:country-region>, as well as <st1:country-region w:st="on">Iran</st1:country-region>'s stated interest in using the planned organization for political purposes - a stance enthusiastically backed by President Hugo Chavez of <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Venezuela</st1:place></st1:country-region>, another nation with gas reserves that would be likely to join.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>Last July, the House unanimously passed a &quot;sense of Congress&quot; resolution, that I authored, urging the <st1:country-region w:st="on">U.S.</st1:country-region> and its allies to <strong style=""><u>prevent the establishment of a natural gas cartel</u></strong>, which it said would be a threat to <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:country-region w:st="on">U.S.</st1:country-region></st1:place> and world security.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>I have said <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:country-region w:st="on">America</st1:country-region></st1:place> should enlist the help of friendly nations that export oil to stop &quot;this menace before it becomes a reality that, once established, may be with us forever.&quot;<o:p></o:p></span></p>

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    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Investing in our Energy Future ]]>
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    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080507_1943,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>05/07/2008 18:37</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080507_1943,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Economy</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<span style="font-size: 10pt;">I am a strong supporter of greater federal investment in alternative energy sources such as wind, solar, biomass, and hydrogen fuel cell power. Earlier this year, I voted in favor of landmark domestic energy legislation (H.R. 6) to reduce <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">America</st1:place></st1:country-region>'s dependence on foreign oil and increase its use of clean energy technologies. This bill also requires that automakers increase fuel efficiency for cars, pickup trucks and SUVs to an average of 35 miles per gallon by 2020-the first increase in the federal auto fuel economy standard in 32 years.<o:p></o:p></span>

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    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Skyrocketing prices at the pump ]]>
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    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080507_1942,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>05/07/2008 18:37</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080507_1942,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Economy</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<p style="" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">As with millions of Americans, I am deeply troubled by the skyrocketing prices at the pump. In <st1:place w:st="on">South Florida</st1:place>, <strong style=""><u>the average cost of gasoline is $3.73 per gallon.</u></strong> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="">&nbsp;</span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">A number of factors contribute to the soaring gas prices. Regardless of the reasons, working families are being hit hard by record prices at the pump. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p></span></p>
<p style="" class="MsoNormal"><strong style=""><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Lowering Gas Prices and Reducing Dependence on Imported Oil<o:p></o:p></span></strong></p>
<p style="" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="">&nbsp;</span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">We are now seeing record highs for the cost of crude oil, nearly $120 a barrel. The supply of crude oil around the world is not keeping pace with the burgeoning demand in such markets as <st1:country-region w:st="on">China</st1:country-region> and <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">India</st1:place></st1:country-region>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Furthermore, oil-producing nations and the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) continue to limit production of oil in order to keep supplies tight and prices high. <strong style=""><u>I have spoken out on numerous occasions against this form of economic extortion</u></strong>. I have also cautioned against the formation of a natural-gas cartel similar to OPEC. Last year, I authored a resolution (H.Res.500) that declared the establishment of a natural gas cartel to be a threat to <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">U.S.</st1:place></st1:country-region> national security interests. This resolution was passed in the House of Representatives in July 2007. I need your help in getting it passed through the Senate!<o:p></o:p></span></p>

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    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Earth Day ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080430_1904,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>04/30/2008 12:00</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080430_1904,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Welcome</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

This last week we here in Washington celebrated Earth Day. This is certainly a time to remind ourselves the importance of conservation and good stewardship. <br /><br />As a Member of Congress, I fully understand the need to prevent our Earth's atmosphere from further damage. In keeping with this goal, I am a strong supporter of increased Federal investment in alternative energy sources. I recently voted in favor of HR 6-The Energy Independence and Security Act. This legislation includes a historic level of funding for clean, alternative fuels and also mandates that electricity providers generate 15 f all power from renewable sources, such a solar and wind power, by the year 2020.<br />&nbsp;<br />I have also taken several proactive measures to alert my colleagues on the importance of protecting our national marine habitats-many of which are seriously threatened by global warming. I founded the National Marine Sanctuary Caucus, a bi-partisan organization, co-chaired by Rep.<br />Lois Capps of California, which was established to raise Congressional awareness about the essential role national sanctuaries play in protecting marine habitats. <br /><br />Our planet deserves are full attention, let us not forget to do all we can!

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    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Malaria ]]>
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    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080430_1903,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>04/30/2008 11:59</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080430_1903,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Health Care</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

I was delighted to team up with First Lady Laura Bush and a bipartisan group of House members to launch a Congressional caucus with the aim of coordinating U.S. policy on fighting malaria.<br /><br />Raising awareness about this disease and ways to prevent its spread, which kills an estimated 1 million people annually, are truly of the utmost concern to us all.

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    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Claude Pepper, one of South Florida&rsquo;s finest statesmen ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080421_1874,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>04/21/2008 18:23</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080421_1874,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Welcome</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

This past week I had the privilege to introduce a bill in honor one of South Florida&rsquo;s finest statesmen, Claude Pepper, a distinguished former Senator and Congressman from Miami, Florida.&nbsp; The entire Florida Congressional Delegation is co-sponsoring this fitting tribute to Congressman Pepper, who passed away on May 30, 1989.

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    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Pope Benedict XVI ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080421_1873,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>04/21/2008 18:22</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080421_1873,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Welcome</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

This past week&rsquo;s visit by Pope Benedict XVI was both exciting and significant. It is wonderful to see so many people energetically engaged by his calls for peace, unity, and prayer. I know that we all look to find tranquility and meaning in this world and for many he can show the way. To see the Pope make his first official visit to our great nation and witness first-hand the kindness and generosity of the American people is truly inspiring.

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    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Olympic Games in Beijing ]]>
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    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080414_1844,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>04/14/2008 11:12</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080414_1844,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Civil Rights</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

For months, I've been asking the President to reconsider his decision to attend the Olympic Games in Beijing.&nbsp; I've asked that we take a stand for freedom and not have any U.S. Government official participate.<br />&nbsp;<br />Attendance at the games gives legitimacy to the regime.&nbsp; We cannot claim to stand for freedom and democracy for all and then look away and ignore China's terrible human rights record.<br /><br />From Darfur to Tibet, the Communist Chinese have joined with the forces of repression.&nbsp; The Chinese regime has continued its arrests of internet users, its reign of terror against Falun Gong practitioners, its forced labor policies, its suppression of underground churches, its bloody repression of minorities in Tibet and the Uighur region, its support for the murderous generals in Burma and the genocidal regime in Darfur, and its round-up of North Korean refugees.<br /><br />No American official should give their blessing to what is becoming the &quot;Genocide Olympics.&quot;

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    <title>
	<![CDATA[ American Society for Public Administration ]]>
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    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080414_1843,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>04/14/2008 11:10</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080414_1843,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Education</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

As a Member of Congress, I was very delighted and honored to participate in an excellent conference to enhance public administration this past Friday. To preserve the public trust is a staple of any elected public official and I am glad to do my part. During this conference I commended the American Society for Public Administration, South Florida Chapter, for bringing together government leaders. These excellent public servants work behind the scenes every day to get the job done, and done right. The efforts and commitment to our community that they have shown is truly remarkable. I thank them for their efforts and always look forward to working with them to solve the daunting challenges that affect us all here in South Florida.

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    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Foreign Service ]]>
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    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080215_1664,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>02/15/2008 18:24</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080215_1664,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Civil Rights</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<p>I have asked the U.S. Department of State to please do more to solve workplace inequities faced by gay and lesbian employees. I expressed concern that the department's failure to look into this policy may lead many highly qualified people to leave the foreign service at a time when their talents are most needed. We must help our dedicated men and women to better serve the vital interests of our nation.</p>

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    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Black History Month ]]>
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    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080215_1663,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>02/15/2008 18:23</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080215_1663,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Welcome</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<p>I will participate along with community leaders in the South Miami Black History parade. I am honored to be participating in a parade full of young people who are commemorating Black History Month. I congratulate the students who are honoring ideals we hold dear. </p>

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    <title>
	<![CDATA[ College Opportunity and Affordability Act ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080208_1635,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>02/08/2008 18:16</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080208_1635,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Education</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<p>I recently voted in Congress for the College Opportunity and Affordability Act that will add flexibility for students by allowing year-round Pell Grants for students who wish to complete their education more quickly. The bill also includes numerous proposals to improve higher education opportunities for members of the Armed Forces.</p>

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    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Economic Stimulus ]]>
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    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080208_1634,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>02/08/2008 18:15</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080208_1634,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Economy</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<p>I recently voted in favor of the Economic Stimulus package to provide a rebate for individuals paying income taxes in 2007. Rebates are geared to offer more relief to those who need it most and the bill includes a bonus depreciation tax cut for businesses, allowing them to write off 50 f investment spending on new equipment. In addition, rebates will be offered to families with children and qualified seniors and disabled veterans.</p>

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    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Monroe County Appropriations ]]>
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    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080125_1589,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>01/25/2008 18:39</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080125_1589,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Economy</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<p>I met with Key West elected officials, including Mayor Morgan McPherson to discuss the City&rsquo;s appropriations request for the upcoming fiscal year. As you know, I have secured millions of dollars not only to the City of Key West, but also to Monroe County. These funds are crucial to improve our community and provide better services to our constituents. </p>

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    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Holocaust Archives ]]>
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    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080125_1588,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>01/25/2008 18:27</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=080125_1588,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Welcome</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<p>I would like to share with my consittuents very important information. The ITS Holocaust archives in Germany recently became open to the public and copies of documents are now being transferred to the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum. The Museum is offering a service where survivors or their family members can request information and this info will be provided free of charge. </p>

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    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Omnibus Vote ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071221_1524,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>12/21/2007 17:28</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071221_1524,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Welcome</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<span style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA">I was pleased to vote in favor of the Omnibus that provides instrumental funding for our communities in <st1:place w:st="on">South Florida</st1:place>. <strong><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: normal; COLOR: black">This vote is a step in the right direction so that our communities receive the Federal financial assistance that we so desperately need.</span></strong></span><strong><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: normal; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; COLOR: black; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA"><font face="Times New Roman"> </font></span></strong>

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    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Happy Holidays! ]]>
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    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071221_1523,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>12/21/2007 17:28</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071221_1523,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Welcome</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<span style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA">I hope that you have found your way to home and are in the company of those you love this season. Family and friends, they are the pillars of what makes this happy holiday just that. All year long we miss countless opportunities to express how much these special people make a difference in our lives. Come Christmas we are given the chance to make amends for these missed moments and truly show our care for one another.&nbsp;Happy Holidays&nbsp;and a Happy New Year!</span>

	<p>
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	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ C. Clyde Atkins ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071214_1510,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>12/14/2007 17:44</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071214_1510,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Welcome</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<p>I am proud to honor the life and career of Judge C. Clyde Atkins as Congress has passed a bill to name the federal courthouse at 301 North Miami Avenue, in his name. Judge Atkins was a wonderful role model and jurist that impacted South Florida while serving on the bench.</p>

	<p>
	0 Comments
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	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Foreign Beach Sand ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071214_1509,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>12/14/2007 17:44</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071214_1509,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Environment</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<p>This week, I hosted a meeting to discuss the pressing issue of Beach Erosion in the state of Florida with Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works, John Paul Woodley and Colonel Paul Grosskruger, Commander of the Army Corps of Engineers Jacksonville Office. Secretary Woodley informed me that the Army Corps had finally agreed to sign off on allowing Miami-Dade County to import foreign beach sand. </p>

	<p>
	0 Comments
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	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Florida Women Hall of Fame ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071207_1493,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>12/07/2007 17:59</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071207_1493,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Welcome</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<p>I am honored to be inducted into the Florida Women's Hall of Fame. It is a privilege to represent women in Congress and I look forward to empowering women to be our future leaders and role models of our great nation.</p>

	<p>
	0 Comments
	]]>
	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Energy Bill ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071207_1492,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>12/07/2007 17:59</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071207_1492,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Environment</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<p>I am proud to vote for the passage of the landmark Energy Bill. This legislation will fuel economy standards and help to establish a national renewable electricity standard. We must invest in alternative sources of energy to be less dependent on foreign oil. </p>

	<p>
	0 Comments
	]]>
	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ World AIDS Day ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071130_1474,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>11/30/2007 17:41</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071130_1474,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Health Care</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<p>As World AIDS day is among us, we must remember making HIV tests a part of our routine medical checkups when we go see the doctor. Early Prevention is the best form of protection to help those living with HIV to become aware of their status and to increase early diagnosis to prevent other infections. It has been proven that treatments are less effective when diagnosis occurs late and late detection translates into the likelihood that infected individuals will unknowingly spread the disease.</p>

	<p>
	0 Comments
	]]>
	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Miami Beach ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071130_1473,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>11/30/2007 17:40</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071130_1473,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Environment</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<p>I have requested a Federal appropriation of $3.5 million dollars for a County-wide beach erosion control project. These funds would be used to restore eroded segments of shoreline from approximately 63rd to 84th Streets on Miami Beach. Protecting our beautiful beaches is extremely important and we must provide resources in order to purchase sand as local sources have become very scarce. </p>

	<p>
	0 Comments
	]]>
	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Enhancing the Effective Prosecution of Child Pornography Act ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071116_1441,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>11/16/2007 17:42</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071116_1441,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Crime</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<a name="summary">I am proud to vote in favor of the Enhancing the Effective Prosecution of Child Pornography Act. This legislation includes child pornography activities and the production of such pornography as crimes for prosecutions. As a mother of two daughters, protecting our children is of utmost importance to me and we must give the judicial system the tools they need to prosecute these criminals. <o:p></o:p></a>

	<p>
	0 Comments
	]]>
	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Mortgage Reform and Anti-Predatory Lending Act ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071116_1440,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>11/16/2007 17:42</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071116_1440,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Housing</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

I am committed to continue to work in Congress to help make housing affordable and sustainable. I am pleased to vote in favor of HR 3915, the Mortgage Reform and Anti-Predatory Lending Act. This legislation will reform consumer mortgage practices and establish licensing and registration requirements for residential mortgage originators, to provide certain minimum standards for consumer for mortgage loans.&nbsp;&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

	<p>
	0 Comments
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	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Water Resources Development Act ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071109_1412,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>11/09/2007 14:50</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071109_1412,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Environment</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<p>I was happy to vote in favor of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) that contains dollars for the Everglades Restoration Project as well as funds for local important South Florida projects such as a dredging project at the Miami Harbor and authorization for the Miami-Dade proposed water reuse transmission pipeline.</p>

	<p>
	0 Comments
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	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Marjory Stoneman Douglas ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071109_1411,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>11/09/2007 14:49</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071109_1411,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Environment</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<p>I am proud to introduce a resolution honoring the life, achievements, and distinguished career of Everglades conservationist and writer Marjory Stoneman Douglas. The measure has an incredible bipartisan support and thanks to Marjory's tireless advocacy, precious foresight, and her efforts on behalf of the Everglades which is now recognized as a national treasure and federally protected area.</p>

	<p>
	0 Comments
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	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ South Florida Beaches ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071105_1384,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>11/05/2007 10:50</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071105_1384,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Environment</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<p>I have sent a letter to the Army Corps of Engineers expressing my profound disappointment over the Corps rejection of Miami-Dade County's request to purchase foreign sand to replenish the battered South Florida coastline. We have seen with the recent hurricane that strong winds and surf have mad a bad beach erosion problem even worse so the need for the foreign sand is all the more critical.</p>

	<p>
	0 Comments
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	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ C. Clyde Atkins ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071105_1383,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>11/05/2007 10:49</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071105_1383,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Welcome</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<p>I am pleased that my colleagues joined me in passing H.R. 2671- To designate the United States courthouse located at 301 North Miami Avenue, Miami, Florida, as the &quot;C. Clyde Atkins United States Courthouse&quot;. This bill would help to ensure that we can properly pay tribute to one of Florida's greatest jurists by naming the courthouse in Miami in honor of Judge Atkins.</p>

	<p>
	0 Comments
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	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Coral Reef Conservation Act ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071026_1360,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>10/26/2007 17:38</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071026_1360,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Environment</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

I am extremely pleased with the passage of the &ldquo;Coral Reef Conservation Act of 2007&rdquo;. This bill would establish the first dedicated Federal grant program for coral reef protection, amongst other provisions. Protecting our fragile coral reefs and ecosystem is and must remain a high priority for the Congress.

	<p>
	0 Comments
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	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071026_1359,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>10/26/2007 17:37</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071026_1359,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Health Care</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

I am proud to cosponsor H. Res. 617, Supporting the goals and ideals of National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month. This resolution includes efforts to raise public awareness about Alzheimer's, promote early evaluation, diagnosis, planning, and treatment. In order to succeed in this battle, we must encourage progress toward the development of a national health policy about Alzheimer's and ensure that people with dementia receive a diagnosis and appropriate care.

	<p>
	0 Comments
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	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ ADA Restoration Act ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071019_1331,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>10/19/2007 17:33</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071019_1331,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Health Care</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<p>I am proud to co-sponsor HR 3195, the ADA Restoration Act. This legislation would allow courts to focus on a person who has experienced discrimination due to any physical or mental impairment rather than having to demonstrate first, that they are substantially limited in some major life activity.</p>

	<p>
	0 Comments
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	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Breast Cancer Awareness Month ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071019_1330,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>10/19/2007 17:24</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071019_1330,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Health Care</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<p>Breast Cancer is one of the leading cancers responsible for women's lives in the United States. Last week, House Concurrent Resolution 230 was introduced in order to support the observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I am happy to be a cosponsor of this legislation in order to move towards eradicating this disease to save the lives of countless women and men currently suffering from breast cancer.</p>

	<p>
	0 Comments
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	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ HIV/AIDS Among Hispanics ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071012_1288,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>10/12/2007 17:46</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071012_1288,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Health Care</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<p>HIV infections are rising at an alarming rate among Hispanics and our very own Miami-Dade County is now at the top of a list we would all rather not be on. With the County's frightening high rate of infections it is the responsibility of every parent, educator and public official to raise awareness of HIV/AIDS infections and how to prevent them. I urge all Hispanics who have not been tested to do so today and set an example for all around and let's all help to bring HIV infections among Hispanics down and down. </p>

	<p>
	0 Comments
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	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Vision Preservation Act ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071005_1256,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>10/05/2007 17:44</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071005_1256,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Health Care</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<p>I am proud to cosponsor the Vision Preservation Act. This legislation will expand vision programs targeted to prevent and rehabilitate individuals with vision loss in underserved and minority communities, including programs at community health centers and vision rehabilitation agencies, eye clinics and hospitals.</p>

	<p>
	0 Comments
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	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Women in Darfur ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071005_1255,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>10/05/2007 17:43</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=071005_1255,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Crime</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<p>I am proud to co-sponsor a resolution to prevent the women and girls of Darfur. We have a moral obligation to do everything in our power to protect the basic human rights of individuals around the world, and there may be no greater violation of a woman&rsquo;s or a girl&rsquo;s basic human rights than when she is a victim of rape or sexual violence. Congress will not sit by idly as innocent women and girls in the Darfur conflict region continue to experience this gross violation of their basic human rights.</p>

	<p>
	0 Comments
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	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Save our Community Pharmacies Act ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070921_1204,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>09/21/2007 17:07</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070921_1204,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Health Care</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<p>I am proud to co-sponsor H.R. 3140, the Save our Community Pharmacies Act of 2007, which would eliminate the Average Manufacturer Price (AMP) index and replaces it with the use of the median retail acquisition cost as the basis for Medicaid reimbursement limits on generic drugs. By ensuring proper prices for prescription drugs, our senior community will benefit greatly by affording medicine they desperately need.</p>

	<p>
	0 Comments
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	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ American Homeownership Act ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070921_1203,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>09/21/2007 17:07</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070921_1203,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Housing</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<p>I was happy to vote in favor of the Expanding American Homeownership Act in order to provide our community the best opportunity possible to afford a home. With the rising cost of mortgages in South Florida, this bill will help ease some of the financial burden of our most at risk families.</p>

	<p>
	0 Comments
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	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Aquarius Dive ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070914_1174,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>09/14/2007 17:42</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070914_1174,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Environment</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<p>I will be diving to underwater sea lab Aquarius on Friday, September 21st. Tune into <a href="http://blogadmin.house.gov/blogadmin/FCKeditor/editor/www.oceanslive.org/portal"><u><font color="#0000ff">www.oceanslive.org/portal</font></u></a> to watch the me LIVE from Aquarius where I and Scott Donahue, scientist for the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary will discuss what we can do to stop the reef's decline. The broadcast will be aired live to the 3rd-6th grade class at the Montessori School in Islamorada.</p>

	<p>
	0 Comments
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	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Small Business ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070914_1173,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>09/14/2007 17:41</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070914_1173,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Economy</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<p>I am proud to have cosponsored H.R. 2992, the SBA Trade Programs Act and HR 3020, the Micro loan Amendments and Modernization Act to develop policies and recommendations that will benefit our small businesses in South Florida. In order for our local economy to continue to prosper, we must allocate resources to small business owners so that they can provide the best services possible to their employees and our community.</p>

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	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ College Cost Reduction Act ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070907_1145,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>09/07/2007 17:40</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070907_1145,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Education</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<font face="Times New Roman" size="3"><span style="FONT-SIZE: 10.5pt">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">I am honored to vote in favor of the College Cost Reduction Act. This bill increases the maximum Pell Grant to $5,400 and cuts interest rates to subsidized <st1:place w:st="on">Stafford</st1:place> loans for undergraduate students. I am dedicated to assisting working families to afford the best education possible for their children and give them the opportunity to succeed in the future. &nbsp;</p>
</span></font>

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	</description>
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<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Renewable Energy ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070907_1144,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>09/07/2007 17:39</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070907_1144,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Environment</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

I am proud to recently vote in favor of an amendment to establish a national 15 enewable Electricity Standard by 2020. This legislation takes an important step toward a more safer and dependent energy future for our country. This bill will lower our energy bills, create new jobs, and revitalize rural <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:country-region w:st="on">America</st1:country-region></st1:place> in order to benefit our nation. I shall continue to work in Congress to protect our environment to serve our community.

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	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Miami Beach Jetties ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070817_1092,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>08/17/2007 17:23</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070817_1092,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Environment</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<font size="2">
<p>Many residents of Miami Beach have been expressing their concerns about the jetties that were put in place to prevent beach erosion, instead saying that those same jetties are causing the erosion. This is a matter of serious environmental and economic concern. That's why I sent my DC Chief of Staff, Arthur Estopinan and Marilys Diaz, my Congressional Aide for Miami Beach, to a recent meeting of Miami Beach residents. I am committed to supporting my constituents in this cause and will work closely with local and state officials to see that this matter is resolved quickly.</p>
</font>

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<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Port of Miami ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070817_1091,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>08/17/2007 17:21</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070817_1091,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Homeland Security</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<font size="2">
<p>I applaud the recent funding announced for the Port of Miami announced by the Department of Homeland Security, which totals $2.3 million. Miami-Dade County Seaport and the Port of Miami Terminal Operating Company will now have a tremendous advantage in being able to run a secure and efficient port. It is important that the Department of Homeland Security recognize the contribution the Port of Miami makes to our local and national economy and continue to fund it appropriately.</p>
</font>

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	</description>
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<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ HR 3221 ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070803_1047,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>08/03/2007 15:59</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070803_1047,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Environment</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<div>Recently, amendments to H.R. 3221, the &quot;New Direction for Energy Independence, National Security, and Consumer Protection Act&quot;, were introduced to allow drilling off of Florida's coast. These amendments, should they pass, would open up Florida to untold ecological risk - a risk that cannot be ignored. I will continue to fight hard for Florida's coast and ecological security that should be protected and preserved for future generations.</div>

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	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Introduction of Early Treatment for HIV Act ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070803_1046,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>08/03/2007 15:58</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070803_1046,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Health Care</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<div>I am proud to announce the official introduction of the &ldquo;Early Treatment for HIV Act&rdquo;. This bill seeks to give states the option to extend Medicaid coverage to low income individuals living with the HIV virus before the onset of full blown AIDS. We must reduce the high number of infected individuals in our South Florida community that cannot afford proper medical coverage.</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>

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	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Breast Cancer Research ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070724_1000,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>07/24/2007 12:24</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070724_1000,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Health Care</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

Breast Cancer is a disease that affects hundreds of thousands of families each year.&nbsp; We as a community must work together to help fund research initiatives to end this devastating disease and to raise awareness for women of all ages.&nbsp; We owe it to ourselves and the women in our lives to make an effort to battle this terrible disease.&nbsp; I have worked with my colleagues in Congress and a cosponsor of several pieces of legislation such as the Breast Cancer Patient Protection Act, Breast Cancer and Environmental Research Act, Mammogram and MRI Availability Act, and several other bills that will further our ability to detect and defeat breast cancer.

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	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Passports ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070724_0999,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>07/24/2007 12:24</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070724_0999,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Homeland Security</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

I was disheartened to hear from my constituents that their passports were being held up by the State Department due to their lack of personnel. After a recent congressional hearing where I pressed the State Department on the issue, I am encouraged to learn that the State Department has taken appropriate action to address the situation.

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<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Miami River Commission ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070713_0948,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>07/13/2007 18:27</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070713_0948,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Environment</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

I was proud to present a check for $20.5 million to the Miami River Commission. This important revenue will help dredge and revitalize the Miami River as a commercial and cultural destination for South Florida. I will continue to advocate on behalf of our community on this important issue.

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	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Saving Our Eroding Beaches ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070713_0947,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>07/13/2007 18:26</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070713_0947,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Environment</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

Pristine beaches are vital to South Florida's economic stability. That's why I support an effort to quickly and efficiently bring sand to revitalize our eroding beaches. This project is extremely important for South Florida's economic and environment well-being.

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	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Miami River ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070629_0888,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>06/29/2007 18:17</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070629_0888,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Environment</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><font size="3"><font face="Times New Roman">I was pleased to meet with Secretary John Woodley, <span style="COLOR: black">Assistant Secretary of the Army, Civil Works and </span>the commanders of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers along with Rep. Wasserman Schultz to discuss substantive topics as the Miami River Maintenance Dredging Project, Miami Beach Erosion, Florida Keys Wastewater, and the <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placetype w:st="on">Port</st1:placetype> of <st1:placename w:st="on">Miami Dredging</st1:placename></st1:place>. This meeting was a great opportunity to communicate the concerns of the residents of the 18th district to the Army Corps of Engineers. I look forward to keeping tabs on this project and tracking its progress. <o:p></o:p></font></font></p>

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	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Off Shore Oil Drilling ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070629_0887,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>06/29/2007 18:13</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070629_0887,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Environment</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"><font size="3"><font face="Times New Roman">I am pleased that the amendment to allow offshore drilling a mere 25 miles off of <st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Florida</st1:place></st1:state>'s coast was defeated. We must preserve our fragile ecosystem for future generations and I look forward to working with Floridians to that end.<strong><span style="COLOR: black; mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"> </span></strong><strong><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: normal; COLOR: black">Opening up</span></strong><strong><span style="COLOR: black; mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"> </span></strong><st1:place w:st="on"><st1:state w:st="on"><strong><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: normal; COLOR: black"><st1:state u1:st="on"><st1:place u1:st="on">Florida</st1:place><strong><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: normal; COLOR: black"></span></strong><o:p></o:p></st1:state></span></strong></st1:state><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">&rsquo;s coastlines to oil and gas exploration would be a travesty with far reaching negative effects. This is not the legacy that I wish to leave to my children and grandchildren.</font></st1:place></font></font></p>

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	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ HR 2289, Striving Readers Act ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070622_0843,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>06/22/2007 15:19</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070622_0843,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Education</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><font size="3"><font face="Times New Roman">As a former educator, I know how important it is to promote excellence in literacy. The Striving Readers Act will help our children reach greater heights by establishing federally-funded literacy programs for middle and high school students. The literacy program will improve teacher training, place special literacy coaches in schools, and prepare parents that can help our youth reach their potential and create a brighter future for all. <o:p></o:p></font></font></p>

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<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ HR 2353, Cancer Screening Treatment and Survivorship Act ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070622_0842,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>06/22/2007 15:19</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070622_0842,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Health Care</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><font size="3"><font face="Times New Roman">I am proud to support the Cancer Screening Treatment and Survivorship Act. This act will greatly help our families by authorizing grants to establish prevention-focused cancer screening programs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </span>This bill also provides states the option of providing medical services to anyone who is under 65 and not eligible for Medicaid. This important bill will greatly assist our friends, family, and neighbors who are found to have cancer to more effectively combat that horrible disease. <o:p></o:p></font></font></p>

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	</description>
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<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ &quot;MATCH&quot; Act ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070615_0788,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>06/15/2007 12:29</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070615_0788,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Crime</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

The Managing Arson Through Criminal History, or &quot;MATCH&quot; Act, is a revolutionary piece of legislation that would create a national arson registry so that multiple law enforcement agencies can cooperate effectively on investigations. The crime of arson incurs millions of dollars in damage a year to this country, I am pleased that Congress is addressing this important issue.

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	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ HR 1343, Health Centers Renewal Act ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070615_0787,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>06/15/2007 12:24</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070615_0787,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Health Care</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

I was proud to co-sponsor the Health Centers Renewal Act, a bill that asks for the reauthorization of the Health Centers Program for five years. These important centers give health care to 1 of every 8 uninsured Americans, 1 of every 4 Americans in poverty, and 1 of every 9 rural Americans. The safety net provided by these clinics cannot be emphasized enough, as they are the sole source of healthcare for many Americans.

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	</description>
</item>

<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ College Student Relief Act ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070409_0387,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>04/09/2007 15:53</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070409_0387,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Education</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

As a former educator, I was very excited to vote for HR 5 - The College Student Relief Act that would help lower interest rates on student loans so that currrent students, our future leaders, keep more of their hard earned money. Many would like to study and advance their education,but due to the high cost of education, some have to defer those dreams. It is my hope that this bill will make college more accessible to those who are desperately in need.&nbsp;

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	</description>
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<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Bi-partisan Leadership on Health Care ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070409_0386,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>04/09/2007 15:51</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070409_0386,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Health Care</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

Recently, Congressman Ron Klein and I introduced a bill to impose a 2 year moratorium on planned cuts to hospitals by Medicare and Medicaid.The recently proposed cuts to the Medicaid program will have a sever impact on more than 57 million Americans who rely on the program forhealth care and the State of Florida alone stands to lose as much as $932 million annually in federal and state matching funds, totaling an estimated$4.6 billion over 5 years.&nbsp; This proposal would dramatically impact the lives of our elderly residents and have a detrimental effect on our society.

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<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Business ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070207_0271,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>02/07/2007 17:02</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070207_0271,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Economy</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

For years I have worked with my colleagues in Congress to address the issues affecting our nation&rsquo;s small business. To ease the burden on our businesses we have addressed issues from taxes to healthcare to increasing trade with our regional hemispheric partners.&nbsp; Our economic accomplishments demonstrate without a doubt that the economic policies of lower taxes and less government regulations are working and that all Americans are benefiting from these initiatives.&nbsp;

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<item>
    <title>
	<![CDATA[ Welcome ]]>
	</title>
    <link>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070205_0267,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml</link>
    <pubDate>02/05/2007 09:38</pubDate>
    <comments>http://www.house.gov/htbin/blog_inc?BLOG,fl18_ros-lehtinen,blog,999,All,Item not found,ID=070205_0267,TEMPLATE=postingdetail.shtml#COMMENTS: </comments>
    <dc:creator>Ileana Ros-Lehtinen</dc:creator>
    <category>Welcome</category>
	<description>
	<![CDATA[

<p>Welcome to Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen's Blog. Please feel free to post your coments and concerns regarding matters of interest to the 18th District of Florida. </p>
<p>Thank you and I look forward to reading your posts.</p>

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