Columns
Blaine's Bulletin: Constituent Services
Washington,
August 5, 2016
While many weeks I write about what I’ve been working on in Washington or what I’m hearing from folks as I travel around Missouri, this week I want to take a moment and let you know what my staff has been up to in the 3rd District and also about an opportunity for high school students in the district.
While many weeks I write about what I’ve been working on in Washington or what I’m hearing from folks as I travel around Missouri, this week I want to take a moment and let you know what my staff has been up to in the 3rd District and also about an opportunity for high school students in the district. In addition to the regular visits I make around the district, every quarter of each year, my staff holds Constituent Service Days in all 13 of the counties that I am honored to represent. We typically rotate which towns the stops are in, but we always stop in every county, every time. These forums give folks the opportunity to meet face-to-face with members of my staff to share any concerns you may have or ask questions. I strongly believe in the value of holding Constituent Service Days. Let me tell you, I personally review all the feedback that my staff hears from you and I take your concerns with me to Washington so that other government officials and members of Congress know what the citizens of the 3rd District of Missouri are experiencing in their daily lives. These forums also provide an opportunity for you to get help navigating issues with federal agencies. Whether it’s help with Social Security, Medicare, the VA, or the IRS, we stand ready to serve as your liaison to the federal government. Many folks may not know it, but one of the jobs of a congressional office is to nominate candidates to attend our country’s military service academies. This is an incredible opportunity for high school students in the district and my staff would be happy to navigate the nomination process with interested parents and students. The academies that individuals can apply to are the United States Military Academy, Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, and the Merchant Marine Academy. We are also happy to connect interested students with the Coast Guard Academy; however, this academy does not require a nomination from my office. It’s always an honor to help students from the district realize their dreams of serving our great nation. Just a few months ago, I went to the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland to sit and visit with Midshipmen from the 3rd District who were going through training and attending school. I will never forget being able to see how much these young individuals had already grown in just a couple of short years. On a daily basis, my offices receive phone calls, emails, and letters written by individuals in the 3rd District. Over the last year, my offices received over 38,000 pieces of correspondence. My staff takes pride in ensuring that you will get a response to your inquiry. The team is ready and willing to help with concerns or issues you may have. A couple of other services of note that my office can provide: if you are planning a trip to Washington, please contact the D.C. office for help in planning tours during your trip. Also, if you need help with a federal grant or maybe you know someone who is looking for an internship, again, please let us know. All of this information, and more, is located on my website. Otherwise, please give any of my offices a call and let us know how we can help you. Our nation’s government is elected by the people, for the people. I look forward to continuing to fulfilling that obligation and, as always, I look forward to hearing from you and working with you. |