"This month, Congress is in recess for the August District Work Period; it’s an opportunity for us to get out among the communities in our districts and visit with the people we represent in Washington.  At the end of this work period, we will return to our nation’s Capitol to put the final touches on a Republican-crafted bill that would ultimately end Medicare as we know it – and as it was established 38 years ago.

"Many of you have heard me speak out against this plan as I have met with you in your hometowns so far during the work period, but I want to use this anniversary of the program that has helped to care for our seniors for 38 years to get the word out again.  

"During the course of Medicare’s 38-year history, there have been amazing advances in medical technology, including prescription medicine that can keep us healthy and out of the hospital.  Modernizing Medicare to include a prescription drug benefit for seniors is a necessity, but unfortunately, that necessity is opening the door for a potentially devastating change. 

"The Republican Medicare bill aimed at providing seniors with prescription drug coverage will completely privatize Medicare by 2010.  Rather than truly modernizing Medicare to include prescription drug coverage for seniors, in 2010 we’re going to simply hand them a voucher and say, “Here you go, now go out and find yourself a health insurance policy.” 

"There is a reason Medicare was created, there is a reason our seniors have worked hard and paid payroll taxes: so that their needs will be taken care of.  I assure you that I will do everything in my power to preserve, protect, and strengthen this program that has helped our seniors live longer and healthier lives."

“This round of fire grants brings $60,188 to rural communities in Little River and Jefferson Counties,” Ross said.  “That funding will go a long way toward helping our local firefighters protect people and property.  For residents of these areas, firefighters serve as first responders to a number of emergencies in addition to fires.  These volunteers put their lives on the line, these grants will help to make sure that they are working with the best equipment and training possible.” 

The Fire Operations and Firefighter Safety Program includes funding for training, wellness and fitness, firefighting equipment, personal protective equipment, and modifications to fire stations and facilities.  Departments in the Fourth District receiving grant awards for Fire Operations and Firefighter Safety are as follows:

· Richmond Fire Department (Ashdown) - $32,288

The Emergency Medical Services Program includes equipment, training, and wellness and fitness initiatives for fire-based EMS units.  Departments receiving grant awards for Emergency Medical Services are as follows:

· Watson Chapel Fire Department, Inc. (Pine Bluff) - $27,900

This is the eighth round of notifications for the 2003 program.  Further notifications are expected on a weekly basis for the next few months.