Weekly Updates
This week I visited local businesses, discussing job creation and speaking with many local employers from America's First District. Their message was clear that what's coming out of Washington, DC, is not helping the atmosphere for small businesses looking to expand and create jobs.
This week I had a chance to sit down with my Seniors' Advisory Councils in the upper and lower parts of the district to give them an update on issues before Congress of interest to them, and discuss their concerns and questions. The First District Seniors' Advisory Councils were created to provide constituents with a discussion forum on issues of interest to the senior community, with topics such as economic security, improving the communities in which seniors live and work, health care and other issues.
Last week brought a stunning announcement from Defense Secretary Robert Gates that he intends to close Joint Forces Command in Norfolk. This Command ensures that all of our forces work together in the most efficient way possible to combat the threats our nation faces. This announcement came as a shock to the Commonwealth. I joined with Governor McDonnell and Congressmen Forbes, Scott, and Nye on Monday to share the frustrations and concerns about the quick decision, and the strategic implications for our nation.
Last week came to a great close as I visited with the Hampton VA Medical Center on Friday and spoke with the men and women in uniform who have sacrificed for our nation. They are a true inspiration, as we all recognize their service and sacrifice to defend our nation and their efforts past and present in locations across the world to keep us safe. I was pleased to have the opportunity to spend time with them to talk about their experience at the Hampton Center.
This past week, we received good news about jobs in our area, and I voted on important legislation supporting our military and veterans.
This week, I had a chance to speak with a group of realtors, folks concerned about the new financial reform law, and many other constituents during my meetings and telephone town hall calls.
On Monday, I had a chance to meet with the realtors and homebuilders in the Fredericksburg area to talk about the latest happenings in Washington, and to hear more about what is affecting them and the housing market in our area. They also spoke about the everyday challenges realtors, homebuilders and potential homebuyers face in this economy.
This week brought action on many issues affecting our region. Legislation regarding telework for federal employees, and the National Flood Insurance Program was passed, and I also introduced legislation to boost economic development in the region.
Last week Congress was out of session for the July 4th Independence Day District Work Period, and I enjoyed the chance to spend time visiting with constituents and hearing more about what is on their minds and how I can better serve them.
On Saturday I had the privilege to host the First Congressional District Youth Forum in Yorktown. It's great to hear from the younger generations on current issues, and understand what is on their minds, too. We discussed a range of topics, and also talked about school and education-focused issues they face as students. The students were interested in discussing "healthy food" options at schools, taking out soda machines, among other issues.
This week, I met with my First District Emergency Response Councils both in the lower and the upper ends of the First District. In these meetings, the discussion centered on how, at the federal level, the government can help in local efforts to prevent, respond to and reduce the adverse health effects of public health emergencies and natural and manmade disasters. We were pleased to have special guests from the Governor's Office, who shared their efforts to assist first responders.