MIL USHOR-2b Engine

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif)

Boulder Creek, CA – United States Representative Jimmy Panetta was joined by Santa Cruz County Supervisor Monica Martinez, Executive Director of the Regional Transportation Commission (SCCRTC) Sarah Christiansen, Director of Community Development Matt Machado, Boulder Creek Business Association (BCBA) President Tess Fitzgerald, and Chief Mark Bingham of the Boulder Creek Fire Protection District to announce $850,000 in federal funding for the Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission to fund the Boulder Creek Complete Streets Project, which will improve critical road infrastructure along Highway 9 and Highway 236. The funding announced today will be used to update critical public road infrastructure along Highways 9 and 236 to improve road safety and accessibility for drivers, pedestrians, families and local businesses. 

“Although Highway 9 is a lifeline for the San Lorenzo Valley, it also can be a major hazard for some of the communities on the road,” said Rep. Panetta. “By investing in the infrastructure along the roadways, this improvement project will ensure a slower highway and a safer main street for Boulder Creek. This is a big project that will take all levels of government coming together, so I’m proud to ensure that the federal government through the power of its purse played a part in funding the Boulder Creek Complete Streets Improvement Project.”

The funding announced today will be used to update critical public road infrastructure along Highways 9 and 236 to improve road safety and accessibility for drivers, pedestrians, families and local businesses. This section of highway weaves the community together but has seen a tragic series of pedestrian and bicycle collisions. These congressionally-funded improvements will add sidewalks, medians, bike lanes, and improved crosswalks to enhance downtown Boulder Creek and make Highway 9 safer for everyone.

“I am so grateful to Congressman Panetta’s office for this funding,” said Santa Cruz County Supervisor Monica Martinez. “Highway 9 is the backbone of the San Lorenzo Valley. It is how most residents commute to their jobs; it’s a main evacuation route; and it’s used by tourists who come to visit our beautiful towns and open spaces – including the Big Basin State Park. Despite having only a population of 5,300, Boulder Creek’s main intersection sees nearly 17,000 trips every day and more than double the collision and injury rates of comparable California corridors. By expanding sidewalks, bike lanes, lighting, signage, and other critical safety measures, this project will help improve pedestrian and bicycle access to our elementary school, local businesses, library, and bus stops.” 

“This project is a top priority for RTC’s program in San Lorenzo Valley because it addresses safety concerns along Highway 9 in Boulder Creek, which has accident rates that exceed the state average for similar facilities,” SCCRTC Executive Director Sarah Christiansen. “While our local Measure D sales tax provides critical funding to move projects forward, it is not enough on its own—state and federal investments like this are essential to successful delivery of these improvements. This funding allows us to take a major step forward in advancing meaningful safety upgrades, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with the Boulder Creek community to create a safer, more accessible, and vibrant downtown for years to come.”

“If you’ve ever tried to cross Highway 9 on a busy day, you know why we’re here. I especially want to thank Congressman Jimmy Panetta for securing funding for this project,” said BCBA President Tess Fitzgerald. “At the end of the day, this is about making Boulder Creek safer and easier for the people who live here, work here, and visit. When people feel safe spending time downtown, our businesses grow – and the whole community benefits.

Rep. Panetta worked for this federal funding to be included in the most recent appropriations package, For FY 2026, he secured $5.92 million in community project funding for local projects across Santa Cruz County, and a total of over $15 million to fund 14 local projects in California’s 19^th Congressional District.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Reprepsentative Kathy Castor (FL14)

TAMPA, Fla. – Out of 124 submissions from Tampa Bay area high school students, Blake High School Senior Cora Bowen was awarded the top prize at U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor’s annual Congressional Art Competition with the Mixed Media piece “A Million Paths To Take”. Cora’s artwork will be featured for one year in the U.S. Capitol alongside other Congressional Art Competition winners from across the country.

“The arts unite us and help us see the world through one another’s experiences. At a time when we need more connection and inspiration, these students delivered powerful, deeply personal work that also speaks to the challenges they face. I’m so proud of the talent across Tampa Bay and can’t wait to see Cora represent our community in the national competition,” said Rep. Kathy Castor.

“Senior year to me feels like an open road. A million paths to take, which one will you choose? That’s the question about 60 million eighteen-year-olds are being asked across the United States, what will you do for the rest of your life? To me, rather than something overwhelming and burdening, I feel a lot of optimism, nothing guaranteed, but something will happen, and that’s exciting to me. In my piece, I wanted to utilize untraditional mixed-media techniques, like combining collage with classic glass mosaic, to express these feelings of winding, combining, parallel, linear and exponential paths, each unique in its own way. As a magnet art student at Blake, I previously participated in Rep. Castor’s Congressional Art Competition with digital media and a sculpture. This year, I was excited to use a combination of mediums to create a unique Mixed Media piece that showcases my interest across the art disciplines,” said Cora Bowen.

A photo of Cora’s art can be found here.

Tampa and St. Petersburg are blessed with a broad range of artists and art lovers who provide a substantial economic benefit. The Arts Council and Americans for the Arts demonstrated this recently in their detailed study of the economic impact of nonprofit arts and cultural organizations in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties. 

The results of the Hillsborough study found that in 2022, arts and culture generated $387.5 million in economic activity, supported 6,764 jobs and generated more than $76 million in tax revenue to local, state and federal governments.

The results of the Pinellas study found that in 2022, arts and culture generated $294.7 million in economic activity, supported 4,528 jobs and generated more than $58.9 million in tax revenue to local, state and federal governments. 

Photos of the students’ art can be found here.

Photos from the Art Show can be found here.

U.S. Rep. Castor’s annual Congressional Art Competition is an opportunity to celebrate the art and artists of Hillsborough and Pinellas County public and private high school students. The contest features drawings, paintings, photographs and sculptures. This year, 124 entries were submitted by high school students from Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties, and 56 were chosen to be displayed at the Tampa Museum of Art. The panel of judges is made up of local artists and experts from the Tampa Museum of Art and Tampa Bay Businesses for Culture and the Arts.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (25th District of FLORIDA)

MIAMI, FL – Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26), Dean of the Florida Delegation, is pleased to invite members of the media to attend a check presentation ceremony on Wednesday, April 1, at 12:00 p.m.

The event will celebrate the $973,000 million in federal funding secured by Congressman Diaz-Balart for the Town of Miami Lakes’ Big Cypress drainage improvements project. This funding will be used to reconstruct the drainage system, which will safeguard 83 homes in Miami Lakes from flooding and improve public safety by eliminating standing water along the roadways used for emergency evacuation routes.

This project received funding through the Senate Amendment to H.R. 7148, the Consolidated Appropriations Act 2026, which was approved by Congress and signed into law by the President on February 3, 2026.

WHAT: Check Presentation Ceremony

WHO:

• Rep. Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26), Vice Chair of the House Appropriations Committee and Dean of the Florida Delegation
• Local officials

WHEN:

Wednesday, April 01, 2026 at 12:00 p.m.

WHERE:

7370 Miami Lakeway S. – (Pocket Park #35)

Intersection of Miami Lakeway South & Big Cypress Dr

 All interested credentialed media may RSVP to Andrea.Morales@mail.house.gov

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Don Beyer (D-VA)

Today, the House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition (SEEC) Lands, Waters, and Nature Task Force, led by Co-Chairs Reps. Don Beyer (VA-08), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), and Doris Matsui (CA-07), released the following statement in response to the Department of the Interior’s “God Squad” meeting to waive Endangered Species Act protections for wildlife affected by oil and gas activities in the Gulf of Mexico.  

“Today, President Trump’s Administration hastily convened the so-called ‘God Squad’ to consider sweeping exemptions from endangered species protections for Big Oil in the Gulf of Mexico. After causing a predictable energy crisis with their illegal war abroad, the Trump Administration is now scrambling for solutions and is doubling down on endangered species carveouts for Big Oil. This is a ridiculous sideshow; it will not lower gas prices for the American people, but it will risk the extinction of species, and the Trump Administration knows it.

“If Trump wanted to address the energy crisis, he could do so by stopping his forced dependency on the oil and gas industry. Handing out all-you-can-pollute passes to oil and gas companies not only represents a death knell for the threatened and endangered Gulf wildlife we know and love, but it also means more oil and gas spills that harm the health of our families and cost millions in lost tourism and fishing revenue for coastal economies.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Johnson (LA-04)

Speaker Johnson Advocates for Defense Community Projects

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)

Nearly two million Americans proudly claim Greek ancestry, a testament to the enduring cultural and historical ties between the United States and Greece—ties that remain especially vibrant in communities across the nation. Representatives Chris Pappas (NH-01) and Gus Billrakis (FL-12) , Co-Chairs of the Congressional Hellenic Caucus, were joined by Representatives Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11), Dina Titus (NV-01), Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), Grace Meng (NY-6) and Congressmen Mike Haridopolos (FL-08), Frank Pallone (NJ-06), Jim Costa (CA-21), Rob Menendez (NJ-08), Seth Magaziner (RI-02) in introducing a bipartisan resolution commemorating the 205th anniversary of Greek Independence. This resolution honors the courage and resilience of the Greek people in their fight for liberty and independence, while also recognizing the profound and enduring partnership between Greece and the United States—two nations bound by shared democratic ideals, mutual respect, and a steadfast commitment to freedom.

“As we mark 205 years of Greek Independence, I join my fellow Greek-Americans and colleagues of the Hellenic Caucus in commemorating the Greeks’ fight for freedom after nearly 400 years of occupation by the Ottoman Empire,” said Congressman Pappas. “Greece’s courage and determination for sovereignty mirrors the United States’ own fight for independence and further unites our nations with a shared commitment to freedom and to democracy. On the anniversary of Greek Independence, we celebrate liberty and honor those lost in the pursuit of freedom.”

“It is with great pride that I recognize the 205th Anniversary of Greek Independence and celebrate both Greek and American democracy,” said Congressman Bilirakis. “Like the American revolutionaries who fought for independence and established this great republic we call the ‘Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave,’ Greek freedom fighters began an arduous struggle to secure independence for Greece and its people 205 years ago. The lessons the Greeks taught us continue to inspire and strengthen those facing persecution around the world today. By honoring the Greek struggle for independence, we reaffirm the values and ideals that make our nation great. Each time I perform my Constitutional duties, I do so mindful of the legacy of the ancient Greeks and our American forefathers. As Americans, we must continue to embrace the spirit of freedom and liberty that defines both of our great nations.”

“From the Pindus Mountains of northern Greece to my hometown of Nashua, one of the through lines in what I’ve taken from my Greek American heritage is an important one for today and for this moment: philotimo,” said Congresswoman Goodlander. “I understand that to be a love of honor, a love of country, and a real belief in and commitment to one another. May it light the way today and in the days ahead.”

“On this meaningful anniversary, we recognize the special bond between the United States and Greece and celebrate the boundless spirit of the vibrant Hellenic diaspora,” said Congresswoman Titus. “As a member of the Hellenic Caucus in Congress, I will ensure the United States remains a steadfast ally and continues to bolster stability in the Eastern Mediterranean.”

“Greece and the United States have deep ties and a special friendship that reflects our shared historical commitment to independence and democracy,”said Congressman Menendez. “I am honored to sponsor this resolution to celebrate the 205th anniversary of Greece’s independence and to recognize Greek Americans’ contributions globally and to the United States.” 

“I am proud to represent the vibrant Greek community in Rhode Island’s Second District and am grateful to join this resolution recognizing Greek Independence Day,” said Congressman Magaziner. “During this 205th Independence Anniversary, we celebrate the enduring contributions of Greek Americans and the shared democratic values that strengthen our countries.”

“Democracy started in ancient Greece under the belief that power belongs to the people and not to kings. Two centuries later, that same idea binds Greece and the United States together as partners in the ongoing and difficult work of self-government. In New Jersey’s Sixth District, I see that legacy every day in a vibrant Greek-American community that has helped shape our culture, economy, and civic life. I’m proud that our resolution honors Greece’s independence from Ottoman rule and reaffirms that democracy everywhere is worth fighting for,” said Congressman Pallone. 

“Greece’s independence is a powerful reminder that the fight for freedom is never easy, but it is always worth it,” said Congressman Haridopolos. “As the son of a Greek immigrant, I am proud to celebrate the shared values of our two nations—liberty, self-government, and the rule of law. As we mark this 205th anniversary, we honor that legacy and stand firm in defending freedom for generations to come.”

The Members emphasized that the anniversary serves not only as a commemoration of Greece’s historic fight for sovereignty, but also as a reaffirmation of the shared democratic principles that continue to guide both nations. From the philosophical foundations laid in ancient Greece to the modern alliance between the United States and Greece, this relationship remains a cornerstone of global democracy and stability.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04)

CULLMAN COUNTY, AL — Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04) today highlighted a $1 million grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) for the Foundry Farm Building Project in Cullman County. 

The grant, awarded to the Foundry Ministries, will be used to construct an 11,400 square foot multi-purpose building at the Foundry Farm in Cullman County, AL. The new building will enable Foundry Ministries to expand their recovery and employment readiness training program.  

The organization expects to enroll 30 new participants in the first year of its opening. The construction will include sitework and demolition, construction of foundation, framing of the structure and more. Foundry Farm combines agriculture work and workforce development programs with addiction treatment to help individuals rebuild their lives. 

The new Foundry Farm Building will feature classroom and office space that will support employment readiness training, including culinary skills training programs. This program provides participants with the skills to fill job openings in the Cullman County area. 

The ARC grant will be matched by $1 million in local funding, bringing the total project investment to $2 million.

“This investment will help ensure our local workforce has the skills and people needed to fill jobs while supporting those looking to rebuild their lives,” said Congressman Aderholt. “Not only is this creating long-term prosperity, economic and workforce development across the region, but it is helping change the future of those who struggle with addiction.”

The Appalachian Regional Commission is an economic development partnership of the federal government and 13 state governments focused on strengthening economic growth and opportunity across the Appalachian region. 

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA) and Reps. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA), and Jake Auchincloss (D-MA) introduced the Ensuring Access to Lower-Cost Medicines for Seniors Act, bipartisan legislation to expand Medicare beneficiaries’ access to more affordable prescription drugs.

Too often, insurance companies and pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) are using pricing gimmicks to steer patients towards higher-cost drugs that increase the PBM’s revenue. The bill would require Medicare Part D plans to place certain lower-cost generic drugs and biosimilars on more affordable formulary tiers than their higher-cost brand-name counterparts, and prevent plans from putting added roadblocks in the way of patients trying to use lower-cost options.

“For too many seniors, prescription drugs are far too expensive, even when more affordable options exist,” said Congresswoman Matsui. “Medicare patients should not be pushed toward a brand-name drug that costs more when a safe, effective and less expensive alternative is available. This bill is a commonsense step to help lower drug costs and put power back in the hands of patients and providers, not big insurance companies and pharmacy benefit managers.”

“America’s seniors should never be forced to pay more for their prescriptions when lower-cost options are available. Generics and biosimilars save billions, yet too often seniors are steered toward higher-priced drugs that benefit middlemen, not patients,” said Dr. Miller-Meeks. “This bipartisan bill puts seniors first by lowering out-of-pocket costs and ensuring they can access the affordable medications they deserve.”

“One part of the biotech social contract is ensuring that brand drugs go generic without undue delay,” said Congressman Auchincloss. “This bill strengthens that mechanism by ensuring generics and biosimilars get the formulary placement that drives down both co-pays and premiums.” 

Prescription drug costs remain a major burden for families and seniors living on fixed incomes. While generics and biosimilars often offer lower-cost alternatives to brand-name drugs, manyMedicare Part D plans still do not place those products on the most affordable tiers. In some cases, patients face added hurdles like prior authorization or step therapy that make it harder to access lower-cost treatment options.

The Ensuring Access to Lower-Cost Medicines for Seniors Act would help change that by requiring Medicare Part D plans that cover these lower-cost products to place them in a preferred position relative to the higher-cost reference drug or biologic, when they are cheaper. The bill ensures that when a lower-cost medicine is available, seniors can actually get it at a lower cost.

This bill is endorsed by the Association for Accessible Medicines.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mark Takano (D-Calif)

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (25th District of FLORIDA)

MIAMI, FL – Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26), Dean of the Florida Delegation, is pleased to invite members of the media to attend a check presentation ceremony on Wednesday, April 1 at 11:00 a.m.

The event will celebrate the $6 million in federal funding secured by Congressman Diaz-Balart for the Florida Department of Transportation for the planning and design to alleviate traffic congestion on and off I-75 around NW 170^th Street and NW 154^thStreet.

This project received funding through the Senate Amendment to H.R. 7148, the Consolidated Appropriations Act 2026, which was approved by Congress and signed into law by the President on February 3, 2026.

WHAT: Check Presentation Ceremony

WHO:

• Rep. Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26), Vice Chair of the House Appropriations Committee and Dean of the Florida Delegation
• Local officials

WHEN:

Wednesday, April 01, 2026 at 11:00 a.m.

WHERE:

Intersection of NW 89th Ave & NW 170th St

All interested credentialed media may RSVP to Andrea.Morales@mail.house.gov