[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 159 (2013), Part 4]
[House]
[Page 5947]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                          FLOODING IN ILLINOIS

  (Mrs. BUSTOS asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute.)
  Mrs. BUSTOS. I rise today to talk about the recent flooding that has 
impacted families across my region. From Rockford to the Quad Cities to 
Peoria, Illinois, and in so many towns in between, communities large 
and small are suffering due to this month's record flooding. Among the 
worst hit areas of my region is London Mills, which is in the far 
southern part of my congressional district. Many there are suffering.
  Amanda Franklin of London Mills lost her home, many of her 
possessions, and even her children's drawings that she has held onto 
since they were in kindergarten.
  Bethene Weber, who is 78 years old, lost her home of almost half a 
century to the flooding.
  There are far too many heartbreaking stories from across my region.
  While keeping in mind those who are still recovering, I'd like to 
thank the first responders, the relief workers, and others who have 
volunteered their time and their energy to help those in need. 
Illinoisans are generous and compassionate, as well as resilient and 
hardworking. I have no doubt we will recover from this flooding. But, 
Mr. Speaker, this type of disaster could happen anywhere. As we 
continue to debate the issues of the day, I call on all of us to keep 
in mind the people who are suffering and be there for them in their 
time of need.

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