Foreclosure Rescue Fraud Legislation Into Law

Will Promote Cleaner Air, Reduce Global Warming

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Doris Matsui (CA-05) introduced the Energy Conservation Through Trees Act of 2008 to help lower utility bills and improve air quality.  By promoting the strategic planting of trees, the amount of energy needed to heat and cool homes will be reduced.

“Today, we are tasked with reducing our dependence on foreign oil, stabilizing our energy grid, and improving air quality.  By harnessing the enterprising spirit of Americans and utilizing a diverse range of innovative approaches, we can accomplish this goal,” said Rep. Matsui.

NEH We the People Bookshelf Awarded to 3,000 Libraries Nationwide
Classic books encourage young readers to explore “Created Equal” theme during Lincoln Bicentennial

WASHINGTON (April 8, 2008)— The National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) announced today that 3,000 public and school libraries will receive a free collection of classic books for the fifth annual We the People Bookshelf. Libraries across the nation will each receive 17 hardcover books for young readers (K-12) related to this year’s “Created Equal” theme, inspired by the 2009 bicentennial year of Abraham Lincoln’s birth. The Bookshelf includes Spanish translations to accompany four of the selected titles. 

“The We the People Bookshelf introduces young readers to important literature and promotes the understanding of vital ideas in our nation’s history,” said NEH Chairman Bruce Cole. “Through the power of these stories millions of young readers will have the opportunity to examine the central tenet of our American identity: that all human beings ‘are created equal.’”

Pristine St. Pete/Clearwater ‘Getaway’ Tops 2008 List
hawaii, California outranked by ‘Secret’ Florida favorite

St. Pete/Clearwater, FL (May 22, 2008) –  Coastal expert Dr. Stephen Leatherman, a.k.a. “Dr. Beach,” has named Caladesi Island State Park in the St. Petersburg/Clearwater area America’s Top Beach for 2008.

Leatherman unveiled his internationally-recognized list of the Top 10 U.S. Beaches live via satellite from Caladesi Island State Park this morning. 

Labeling it his “favorite getaway beach,” Leatherman lauded the pristine barrier island’s “powder white” sand and “warm, crystal-clear” water in bestowing it the number one spot, nudging it into first place from the #2 ranking it received in both 2006 and 2007.

Situated two miles out in the Gulf of Mexico off the coast of Dunedin, the 3-mile long island, which is dotted with palm trees and protected by mangrove stands on its bay side, is accessible only by boat or the Caladesi Connection ferry. There are no paved roads or vehicles, but amenities like beach cabana rentals, an onsite café and a marina with full electric and water hookups make this “well-kept secret” a “great place to decompress,” according to Leatherman. 

Mister Car Wash Celebrating the Grand Opening of the Former Grand Prix Car Washes With a Benefit for the Humane Society of Tampa Bay

Tampa, FL May 13, 2008- Friday and Saturday May 23 & 24th from 8 am to 6 pm, Mister Car Wash will celebrate the grand opening of the newly renovated (former) Grand Prix car wash locations with a charity event to benefit the Humane Society of Tampa Bay.  In exchange for cash donations, Mister Car Wash will be giving away free Express Drive-Thru Washes both days at 4 Hillsborough and Pinellas locations.  In addition, Mister Car Wash will be providing door prizes, free hot dogs and sodas to all customers.  

“We are very excited about the upcoming grand opening event and hope to collect plenty of cash for the Humane Society and beautify Tampa traffic by producing a lot of clean, shiny cars,” said Mike Hogan, Vice President of Operations.  “Our goal is to wash 7,000 cars and collect $10,000 in donations over the 2 day period.”