The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
May 20, 2010

Presidential Proclamation-- National Hurricane Preparedness Week

Each year during hurricane season, Americans living in our coastal and inland communities face the danger of these powerful storms.  From high winds and storm surges to tornadoes and flooding, the hazards of hurricanes can destroy communities and devastate lives, and we must aggressively prepare our shores and protect our families.

During National Hurricane Preparedness Week, I urge individuals, families, communities, and businesses to take time to plan for the storm season before it begins.  While hurricane forecasting has improved, storms may still develop with little warning.  For Americans in hurricane threatened areas, knowledge and preparation are pivotal to ensure emergency readiness and responsiveness.  The National Hurricane Center at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, as well as the Federal Emergency Management Agency, recommend taking several important steps to ensure safety.  These precautions include:  developing a family disaster plan; maintaining an emergency supply kit; securing homes, businesses, and belongings; and learning evacuation routes.

I urge those in hurricane-threatened areas to visit www.Hurricanes.gov/Prepare to learn more about what they can do to protect themselves and their property from hurricanes.  Emergency preparation resources for hurricanes and other natural disasters are also available at:  www.Ready.gov.

To help Americans meet the challenges of severe weather, my Administration is focusing on preparedness and response    before, during, and after hurricanes.  We are improving accountability and coordination between all levels of government, modernizing our emergency communications, and empowering more families to prepare themselves.  Thanks to advancements in hurricane forecasting and tracking, the National Hurricane Center is working to give citizens more notice before impending storms.  With the right planning and preparation, we can safeguard lives, protect property, and enhance America's resilience to national weather emergencies.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States,do hereby proclaim May 23 through May 29, 2010, as National Hurricane Preparedness Week.  I call upon all Americans, especially those in hurricane prone areas, to learn more about protecting themselves against hurricanes and to work together to respond to them.

 IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twentieth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.

BARACK OBAMA

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The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
May 20, 2010

Presidential Proclamation--Small Business Week

Small business owners embody the spirit of entrepreneurship and strong work ethic that lie at the heart of the American dream.  They are the backbone of our Nation's economy, they employ tens of millions of workers, and, in the past 15 years, they have created the majority of new private sector jobs.  During Small Business Week, we reaffirm our support for America's small businesses and celebrate the proud tradition of private enterprise they represent.

Our Nation is still emerging from one of the worst recessions in our history, and small businesses were among the hardest hit.  From mom-and-pop stores to high tech start-ups, countless small businesses have been forced to lay off employees or shut their doors entirely.  In these difficult times, we must do all we can to help these firms recover from the recession and put Americans back to work.  Our Government cannot guarantee a company's success, but it can help create market conditions that allow small businesses to thrive.

My Administration is committed to helping small businesses drive our economy toward recovery and long-term growth.  The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act has supported billions of dollars in loans and Federal contracts for small businesses across the country.  The Affordable Care Act makes it easier for small business owners to provide health insurance to their employees, and gives entrepreneurs the security they need to innovate and take risks.  We have also enacted new tax cuts and tax credits for small firms.  Still, we must do more to empower these companies.

In this year's State of the Union address, I proposed creating a $30 billion lending fund to help increase the flow of credit to small businesses, and I call on the Congress to pass this legislation quickly.  My Administration is also working to extend and enhance Small Business Administration programs that have helped small business owners acquire loans and hire workers.

This week, we celebrate the role of entrepreneurs and small businesses in our national life.  They are the engine of our prosperity and a proud reflection of our character.  A healthy small business sector will give us vibrant communities, cutting edge technology, and an American economy that can compete and win in the 21st century.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 23 through May 29, 2010, as Small Business Week.  I call upon all Americans to recognize the tremendous contributions of small businesses to our Nation with appropriate programs and activities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twentieth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.

BARACK OBAMA

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The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
May 20, 2010

Presidential Proclamation--Safe Boating Week

Our Nation's waterways provide endless opportunities for family recreation, exercise, or moments of quiet solitude and reflection. As the weather warms and people prepare to spend time on the water, let us recommit during National Safe Boating Week to practicing safe techniques so boaters of all ages can enjoy this pastime.

Responsible and informed behavior on board can keep boaters and passengers free from harm. Wearing a Coast Guard-approved life jacket, taking a boating safety course, being aware of weather conditions, and ensuring all boats have the necessary safety equipment are all important steps Americans can take to minimize risk on the water. Those who operate boats must also take extra precautions to keep their passengers safe and never boat under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

To help save lives and prevent accidents, the United States Coast Guard partners with boating organizations to raise awareness and teach safe boating practices. Boaters can take advantage of these opportunities to learn, make informed decisions, and teach family and friends to use caution while on board. By practicing safe boating habits and encouraging others to do the same, Americans can protect themselves and others throughout the boating season.

In recognition of the importance of safe boating practices, the Congress, by Joint Resolution approved June 4, 1958 (36 U.S.C. 131), as amended, has authorized and requested the President to proclaim annually the 7-day period prior to Memorial Day weekend as "National Safe Boating Week."

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 22 through May 28, 2010, as National Safe Boating Week. I encourage all Americans who participate in boating activities to observe this occasion by learning more about safe boating practices and to take advantage of boating education.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twentieth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.

BARACK OBAMA

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The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
May 14, 2010

Presidential Proclamation - World Trade Week

A PROCLAMATION

For our Nation to compete and win in the 21st century, we must rebuild our economy on a stronger, more balanced foundation.  Part of that effort will require us to boost our exports, which are critical for our long-term prosperity and which support millions of American jobs.  World Trade Week is an opportunity for us to reaffirm the importance of trade to our Nation's continued economic recovery and growth.

Our Nation is still emerging from an unprecedented economic crisis.  Millions of Americans have lost their jobs and millions more remain underemployed, limited to part-time work or odd jobs.  To help them, we must do all we can to spur job creation and restore economic security.  Producing and exporting more goods and services is essential to strengthening our ability to compete for customers outside our borders.

My Administration is proud to launch the National Export Initiative, a comprehensive strategy to promote American exports.  This initiative brings senior Government officials together with leaders from the private sector to increase trade opportunities for businesses of all sizes, including individual entrepreneurs.  To ensure American companies have free and fair access to global markets, we are enforcing existing trade agreements, addressing issues in pending agreements, and forging new ones that protect our businesses, workers, consumers, and environment.  We are also opening new markets and encouraging development with trade preference programs.  These steps will bring us closer to accomplishing the ambitious goal I set in this year's State of the Union address to double our Nation's exports over the next five years.

As we pursue measures to safeguard our future prosperity, we must remember that we still have the most innovative and productive workers in the world.  We have the most dynamic and competitive economy, and we remain the top exporter of goods and services.  As other nations and markets grow, our leadership will not be guaranteed.  Yet, our success has never been guaranteed.  It has been forged through decades of hard work, ingenuity, optimism, and common purpose.

This week, let us renew the enduring principles that have driven our Nation to the forefront of human progress.  With our ships, trucks, trains, planes, and fiber optic lines, we will send our goods and services to every corner of the globe.  Together, we will make this new century an American century yet again, and secure a bright future for generations to come.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 16 through May 22, 2010, as World Trade Week.  I encourage all Americans to observe this week with events, trade shows, and educational programs that celebrate the benefits of trade to our Nation, American workers, and the global economy.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fourteenth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.

BARACK OBAMA

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The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
May 14, 2010

Presidential Proclamation - National Defense Transportation Day and National Transportation Week

A PROCLAMATION

The transportation networks of early America connected our rapidly growing Nation with natural waterways and dirt roads, making travel difficult and time-consuming.  In the time since, undeveloped paths have given way to iron and concrete thoroughfares, and our modern transportation system has profoundly shaped our landscape, communities, commerce, and culture.  During National Defense Transportation Day and National Transportation Week, we reaffirm the importance of an advanced transportation infrastructure to our Nation's economy and security, and we thank the dedicated men and women who build and maintain it.

In times of peace and national crisis, efficient roads, rails, ports, and airports play a vital role in keeping us safe by enabling the rapid movement of people and resources.  The devoted professionals who design and manage this infrastructure help ensure America has a world-class logistics and transportation system to support our military readiness and emergency response capabilities.

Our Nation's transportation arteries make our economy more efficient, promoting economic growth, the lifeblood of commerce.  The Department of Transportation is working closely with State, local, and tribal governments to ensure billions in transportation funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 are used to improve infrastructure across America.  Through Recovery Act projects, we are repairing crumbling infrastructure, expanding transit capacity, and modernizing our transportation system to meet national security standards and the needs of a 21st-century economy.

The ability to travel effectively also strengthens us as a people.  President Eisenhower's creation of our interstate highway system over 50 years ago revolutionized channels of economic and social mobility, drew together distant areas of our Nation, and helped us maneuver through dense metropolitan areas.  Today, smart, sustainable development, coupled with quality public transportation, has created more livable and environmentally sustainable communities for all to enjoy.  By reducing isolation and bringing neighborhoods together, we can continue to increase access to good jobs, affordable housing, safe streets and parks, and a healthy food supply.

Working together to upgrade our Nation's transportation infrastructure, we will lay a new foundation for long-term growth, security, and prosperity in America and give future generations a transportation system that is second to none.

To recognize the importance of transportation and the Americans who work to meet our transportation needs, the Congress has requested, by joint resolution approved May 16, 1957, as amended (36 U.S.C. 120), that the President designate the third Friday in May of each year as "National Defense Transportation Day," and, by joint resolution approved May 14, 1962, as amended (36 U.S.C. 133), that the week during which that Friday falls be designated as "National Transportation Week."

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim Friday, May 21, 2010, as National Defense Transportation Day and the week of May 16 through May 22, 2010, as National Transportation Week.  I call upon all Americans to recognize the importance of our Nation's transportation system and to acknowledge the contributions of the men and women who support this critical sector.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fourteenth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.

BARACK OBAMA

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The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
May 14, 2010

Presidential Proclamation -- Armed Forces Day, 2010

ARMED FORCES DAY, 2010
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION

America's Armed Forces represent the very best of our national character. They have answered the call to defend our Nation, and their service and sacrifice humble us all. On Armed Forces Day, we pay tribute to these patriots who risk their lives, sometimes giving their last full measure of devotion, to preserve the vision of our forebears and the freedoms we enjoy.

Our service members carry on the proud traditions of duty and valor that have sustained us from our earliest days of independence. Today, we have the greatest military force in the history of the world because we have the finest personnel in the world. Wherever they are needed, from Iraq and Afghanistan to right here at home, they are serving and protecting our Nation.

We owe our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen more than our gratitude; we owe them our support. That is why my Administration is committed to ensuring they have the strategy, clear mission, and equipment they need to get the job done, and the resources they deserve when they come home. We are also increasing support for military spouses and families who must deal with the stress and separation of war.

Today, let us raise our flags high to honor the service members who keep us safe, as we reaffirm our commitment to fulfill our duty to them.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the United States, continuing the precedent of my predecessors in office, do hereby proclaim the third Saturday of each May as Armed Forces Day.

I direct the Secretary of Defense on behalf of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and the Secretary of Homeland Security on behalf of the Coast Guard, to plan for appropriate observances each year, with the Secretary of Defense responsible for soliciting the participation and cooperation of civil authorities and private citizens.

I invite the Governors of the States, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and other areas subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, to provide for the observance of Armed Forces Day within their jurisdiction each year in an appropriate manner designed to increase public understanding and appreciation of the Armed Forces of the United States.

I also invite veterans, civic, and other organizations to join in the observance of Armed Forces Day each year.

Finally, I call upon all Americans to display the flag of the United States at their homes on Armed Forces Day, and I urge citizens to learn more about military service by attending and participating in the local observances of the day. I also encourage Americans to volunteer at organizations that provide support to our troops.

Proclamation 8380 of May 14, 2009, is hereby superseded.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fourteenth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.

BARACK OBAMA

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The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
May 13, 2010

Presidential Proclamation--Emergency Medical Services Week

A PROCLAMATION

 Every day of the year, at all hours of the day and night, we rely on emergency medical services (EMS) professionals and volunteers for critical care in our homes, on our roads, in our hospitals, and wherever needs exist.  EMS teams serve all Americans, standing ready to respond at a moment's notice, and tirelessly enhancing our country's preparedness and resilience.  During Emergency Medical Services Week, we recommit to supporting all EMS providers, and we celebrate their selflessness and courageous contributions to our Nation.

 Our EMS system includes a wide array of dedicated specialists, including emergency medical technicians, 9 1 1 dispatchers, paramedics, firefighters, law enforcement officials, educators, nurses, and physicians.  From rural regions of our Nation to our busiest urban centers, EMS teams provide access to quality care when unforeseen illness, injury, or disaster strikes.  The aid they administer cuts across various disciplines and often requires split-second decisions, essential to preventing disability or death among their fellow citizens.

 My Administration is committed to supporting EMS providers and their important mission.  The Affordable Care Act, which I signed into law this year, authorizes innovative new emergency care and trauma systems, and improves and expands EMS for children.  It also prohibits insurance companies from imposing prior authorization requirements or increased cost-sharing for emergency services.

EMS providers spend long hours to further their medical education, train themselves on the latest life-saving techniques, and maintain vital emergency equipment, often choosing to do so on their own time and at their own expense.  Many communities rely heavily, or even exclusively, on committed volunteers to provide out-of-hospital EMS.  The role of EMS providers extends beyond performing services themselves, however.  They also act as instructors to train ordinary Americans, because bystanders are often the first to arrive at the scene of a crisis.  These heroic professionals, volunteers, and citizens form a network that has long supported our health care system, and their example is an inspiration to us all.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 16 through May 22, 2010, as Emergency Medical Services Week.  I encourage all Americans to observe this occasion with programs and activities to support their local EMS workers and to improve their own safety and preparedness skills.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirteenth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.

BARACK OBAMA

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The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
May 07, 2010

Presidential Proclamation--Peace Officers Memorial Day and Police Week

A PROCLAMATION

As a Nation, we rely on law enforcement officers to keep our neighborhoods safe, enforce our laws, and respond in times of crisis.  These men and women sustain peace and order across America, and we look to them as models of courage and integrity.  This week, we honor their extraordinary service and sacrifice, and we remember the fallen heroes whose selfless acts have left behind safer streets and stronger communities.

 Every day, peace officers face the threat of violence and danger.  They routinely put their lives on the line to defend ours, and the price of that bravery may result in injury, disability, or death.  The steadfast dedication of our country's law enforcement officers warrants more than praise.  That is why my Administration has provided billions of dollars in grants to support State, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies.  These funds are giving peace officers the tools and resources they need to help ensure our safety.

 Thanks to law enforcement officers, our Nation is more secure.  They work with vigilance and dedication to identify and arrest those who seek to do us harm.  They have also been instrumental in foiling many potential attacks, including the recent plot in New York City's Times Square.  From combating terror and staking out criminals to patrolling our highways, peace officers    with the strong support of their families    maintain stability in our communities as we go about our daily lives.  This week, we recognize their invaluable contributions to upholding justice, enforcing the rule of law, and protecting the innocent.

  By a joint resolution approved October 1, 1962, as amended (76 Stat. 676), and by Public Law 103-322, as amended (36 U.S.C. 136-137), the President has been authorized and requested to designate May 15 of each year as "Peace Officers Memorial Day" and the week in which it falls as "Police Week."

 NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 15, 2010, as Peace Officers Memorial Day and May 9 through May 15, 2010, as Police Week.  I call upon all Americans to observe these events with appropriate ceremonies and activities.  Let each of us reflect on the ways in which our lives have been touched by the peace officers who stand guard over our neighborhoods.

 IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this seventh day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.

BARACK OBAMA

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
May 07, 2010

Presidential Proclamation--National Women's Health Week

A PROCLAMATION

In recent decades, our Nation has made extraordinary progress in promoting women's health issues.  However, far too many women remain underserved and we must continue working to ensure all women can access medical services, receive fair treatment, and make healthy choices.  During National Women's Health Week, we recommit to breaking existing barriers and improving the health of American women for generations to come.

 Many American women face significant obstacles in caring for themselves and their families.  That is why my Administration fought tirelessly to pass the Affordable Care Act, which I recently signed into law.  This landmark legislation gives Americans greater control over their health care decisions and access to affordable and equitable insurance.  It lowers costs for women and prohibits insurance companies from overcharging because of gender or denying coverage due to a pre existing condition.  The Affordable Care Act also requires that new health care plans cover preventive care, routine screenings, and regular checkups, as well as basic pediatric services for children.  These services are vital to maintaining individual well being, and empower women when making choices for themselves and their families.  Visit HealthReform.gov to learn more about how the Affordable Care Act benefits Americans across the country.

 We have taken steps to provide access to high-quality, affordable health care, but individuals must also lead healthy lives and set a good example for their children.  From scheduling regular medical examinations to applying sunscreen, simple, everyday activities can make a positive impact on the lives of women.  Regular exercise, coupled with a nutritious diet, helps prevent heart disease, obesity, and other chronic conditions.  Visit WomensHealth.gov and GirlsHealth.gov for more information and resources on women's health issues.  I also encourage Americans to visit www.WhiteHouse.gov/Administration/EOP/CWG to learn about the White House Council on Women and Girls    a body I created to bring women's issues to the forefront, and to emphasize women's roles as full partners in shaping and implementing our Nation's policies.

 The health of American women and girls is not just a women's issue; all Americans have a vested interest.  Women are the foundation of many families, and by encouraging their wellness, we also promote the vitality of our children and our communities.  By standing firm in our commitment to improve women's health, we can give our daughters and granddaughters    and all Americans    a brighter future.

 NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 9-15, 2010, as National Women's Health Week.  I encourage all Americans to celebrate the progress we have made in protecting women's health and promote prevention, awareness, and educational activities that improve the health of all women.

 IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this seventh day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.

BARACK OBAMA

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
May 07, 2010

Presidential Proclamation--Mother's Day

A PROCLAMATION

Generations of mothers have labored tirelessly and selflessly to support and guide their children and families.  Their loving, devoted efforts have broadened horizons for their children and opened doors of opportunity for our Nation's daughters and granddaughters.  On Mother's Day, we pay tribute to these women who have given so much of themselves to lift up our children and shape America's character.

 Julia Ward Howe, who wrote the words for the song The Battle Hymn of the Republic, led early efforts to establish a day honoring the influence of mothers on our lives and communities.  In the ensuing decades, many Americans rallied to support this cause, including Anna Jarvis.  After the loss of her own mother, Anna helped spur the nationwide institution of Mother's Day we celebrate each year.

 From our first moments in this world and throughout our lives, our mothers protect us from harm, nurture our spirits, and encourage us to reach for our highest aspirations.  Through their unwavering commitment, they have driven and inspired countless acts of leadership, compassion, and service across our country.  Many mothers have struggled to raise children while pursuing their careers, or as single parents working to provide for their families.  They have carried the torch of trailblazers past, leading by powerful example and overcoming obstacles so their sons and daughters could reach their fullest potential.

 Whether adoptive, biological, or foster, mothers share an unbreakable bond with their children, and Americans of all ages and backgrounds owe them an immeasurable debt.  Nurturing families come in many forms, and children may be raised by two parents, a single mother, two mothers, a step-mom, a grandmother, or a guardian.  Mother's Day gives us an opportunity to celebrate these extraordinary caretakers, mentors, and providers who have made us who we are.  As we honor today's mothers, we also reflect upon the memory of those who have passed, and we renew our commitment to living the values they cultivated in us.

 The Congress, by a joint resolution approved May 8, 1914 (38 Stat. 770), has designated the second Sunday in May each year as "Mother's Day" and requested the President to call for its appropriate observance.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 9, 2010, as Mother's Day.  Let us express our deepest love and thanks to our mothers and remember those who, though no longer with us, inspire us still.

 IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this seventh day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.

BARACK OBAMA