Dear Friends,
The August district work period is one of my favorite times of year, not only because I get to spend more time in our beautiful state, but most importantly because I get to interact more with all of you – the constituents whose concerns and feedback direct my work in Washington.
It was a productive month, as I continued the efforts we began in 2010 at the Rhode Island Summit on the Economy. That forum gave way to a Rhode Island Skilled Economy (RISE) Tour, which picked up this month with a series of Classroom to Career visits to highlight skills and jobs training programs across the Second District. Each stop shed light on a different aspect of workforce development, from arts education and IT training to soft skills like resume writing and how to excel in an interview.
I learned from program coordinators about the demands of the current job market and was able to share that important information with Rhode Islanders of all ages who are looking for stable employment. In order to keep our promising young people here, we must invest in quality education and training programs and the promise of good jobs to come. If we support our workforce, they will in turn boost our economy.
It has been a frustrating session in Congress so far, with my Republican colleagues blocking important legislation and thwarting plans that stand to benefit so many Rhode Islanders, including passage of the Workforce Investment Act, education reform, and critical nutrition programs like food stamps in the Farm Bill. I know that frustration is being felt back at home. But buoyed by your support and empowered by the great work being done across my district, I am determined to help break this stalemate. By working together, I know we can move this country forward.
As this session resumes, please let me know how I am doing. Share your thoughts via email, Facebook and Twitter, and check out my YouTube and Flickr pages.
Sincerely,
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