[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 145 (Thursday, September 29, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1733]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   RECOGNIZING THE PEOPLE OF LOUISA COUNTY FOLLOWING THE AUGUST 23RD 
                               EARTHQUAKE

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. ERIC CANTOR

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 29, 2011

  Mr. CANTOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the people of 
Louisa County following the earthquake that rattled the East Coast on 
August 23, 2011. The 5.8 magnitude earthquake--which was centered in 
the 7th District of Virginia--was one of the most widely felt in 
American history, ranging from Alabama to as far north as Canada.
  The August 23rd earthquake and its aftershocks had a devastating 
effect on the Louisa community--destroying homes, closing businesses, 
and severely damaging schools. The effects of the earthquake cannot be 
measured by dollars alone. This was a rare event that has disrupted 
lives, changed routines and has forced the citizens of Louisa County to 
adapt in ways that they never expected.
  The day after the earthquake, I had the chance to visit the community 
to survey the damage and meet with local officials, first responders, 
business owners, and families who were affected by this sudden and 
unexpected natural disaster. Communities and individuals were suddenly 
faced with the need to complete unexpected and expensive repairs in 
order to live and work in their homes and businesses. We should all be 
proud of the way the greater Louisa community has responded and its 
ongoing efforts of people to help their neighbors during this difficult 
time. I also want to commend our local and state officials who have 
worked tirelessly over the past several weeks with federal officials to 
assess the damage and determine what is needed to help people recover 
and get the community back on its feet.
  While in Louisa, I also visited the North Anna Power Station operated 
by Dominion Virginia Power, which is located only 12 miles north of the 
epicenter of the quake. The team at North Anna acted promptly and 
decisively to safely shut down the two nuclear reactors and thus far no 
major damage has been reported. I was extremely encouraged by the 
workers at the power station, who did everything they were supposed to 
keep the plant and the surrounding community safe in an emergency.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing the residents of Louisa 
County for coming together during this time of crisis. I commend them 
for their continued strength and resolve as the community continues to 
rebuild following the unexpected disaster.