brown.house.gov

Congressman Henry E. Brown
Contact: Sharon P. Axson (843) 747-4175


November, 2006 Newsletter

"Much to be Thankful for"


Charleston, SC, Nov 30 -

 

I trust that your Thanksgiving was a happy occasion, whether your gathering was large or small. We have so much to be thankful for, yet we sometimes forget to count our many blessings. To all of you that labored to make our holiday safe and secure, we extend a special thanks.



Before the leftovers have been cleared, it's time for Black Friday and Cyber Monday. While both of these terms have been coined by retailers as the start of the 'Shopping Season,' let us not lose sight of the true meanings behind our holiday celebrations.



In the rush of our shopping and merriment, we should also be mindful of the increased risk of alcohol-related accidents on our roadways during this time of year. As a member of the Congressional Stop DUI Caucus, I encourage you to "make the right choice" about alcohol - and if you're under the age of 21, the only responsible decision is not to drink. One death is too many, so don't drink and drive.



We've already experienced a wide fluctuation in weather conditions here in the Lowcountry. Some of us experienced a snow shower - the earliest on record for the Charleston area. These temperature shifts are often blamed for a variety of illnesses. One risk you can avoid is the flu. It's time to get your flu shot, considered the best way for individuals to avoid the virus which is spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing. To find a flu clinic near you, use the American Lung Association's locator at www.flucliniclocator.org



On another health-related note, open enrollment for the Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan began on November 15th. Everyone with Medicare, regardless of income, health status, or prescription drugs used, can get prescription drug coverage. Compared to the 2006 plans, savings are larger and are more widely available. My offices are available to assist you with this program. You can also get helpful information via the internet at www.medicare.gov or by phone at 1-800-MEDICARE.


If your New Year plans include air travel outside the United States, you should be aware that all citizens of the United States, Canada, Mexico and Bermuda will be required to present a passport to enter the United States when arriving by air from any part of the Western Hemisphere beginning January 23, 2007. My office is available to expedite passport applications. Forms are available at www.travel.state.gov


As National Methamphetamine Awareness Day is observed on November 30th, let me take this opportunity to voice my support for the fight against "meth," the highly addictive drug that is made from commonly available household items. Our local law enforcement agencies and solicitors have banded together to combat this lethal substance. I urge you to become aware of the warning signs of methamphetamine use and production. Cooperation at the community level is essential in battling this insidious substance.


Finally, I want to thank everyone who exercised their right to vote on Tuesday, November 7th. The margin of victory in some races is a vivid indicator that every vote counts. While there may be changes in the leadership of our Congress, I am confident that our state's delegation will continue to work together for the best interests of the people of South Carolina.


As always, the resources of my offices are available, if I may be of assistance concerning any federal matter. I look forward to hearing from you. Call any of my offices or refer to my web site for the best way to contact me. The address is www.brown.house.gov .