MS. PERINO: Good morning. A couple of announcements. Welcome back, first of all. Look at this, we have a new podium that is actually my size -- (laughter) -- and I can see over the top of it. So hopefully that will be a good sign.

First of all, federal officials here at the Homeland Security Council and then at the Department of Homeland Security, FEMA and the National Hurricane Center are closely watching the progression of Gustav -- this is the tropical storm -- and they're preparing for its potential landfall. The FEMA Administrator is in Louisiana today, and the Secretary of Homeland Security will travel to the area this afternoon.

Secretary Chertoff spoke to Governor Jindal yesterday regarding the state's preparation and their need for federal assistance. And then FEMA Administrator Paulison spoke to Governor Barbour this morning.

All residents in the region are encouraged to make personal preparations and listen to guidance from state and local officials. Information is available at ready.gov on how families and individuals can best prepare for the storm.

A update on a visit from a foreign leader. President Bush will welcome President Martin Torrijos of the Republic of Panama to the White House on September 17, 2008. Panama is an important friend and ally of the United States. The President looks forward to discussing a range of issues with him, including our common commitment to the United States-Panama trade promotion agreement, expanding free trade and strengthening democracy throughout the region, enhancing security cooperation and strengthening cooperation in international issues.

This visit, following President Torrijos's visit last May, underscores the ongoing deep friendship and cooperation between the United States and Panama.

And finally, we received good news earlier this morning with a strong upward revision of second quarter gross domestic product from 1.9 percent to 3.3 percent; that exceeds all expectations. This level of growth is demonstrating the resilience of our economy, even in the face of high energy prices and the housing market downturn. Another positive sign was the decline in the number of new people who are filing for unemployment benefits, and that's been a good trend as well.

Economic growth in the second quarter was led by strong growth in consumer spending, in part by the economic growth package that was passed last February, and also by very strong export growth. The strong growth in exports we've seen in recent years demonstrates just how important it is to continue with President Bush's efforts to open markets for America's goods and services. There should be no question that trade contributes to economic growth and creates jobs here at home for American workers and farmers. And when Congress gets back from its recess, it should continue this momentum by passing the Colombia free trade agreement and the other FTAs we have negotiated.

And with that, I'll take questions. Ben.

seen at 09:00, 28 August in Whitehouse Press Briefings. Email this to a friend.
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