Busy Week in the First District

Today I met with State Legislators in Charleston to discuss issues concerning education, transportation, and over burdensome regulations from the EPA. We were able to discuss the issues facing West Virginia and determine how we can work together.

During the district work period I traveled all over the first district to meet with a number of constituents. In Parkersburg I met with a number of senior citizens to discuss issues that concern them. In the First District I often hold roundtable meetings on various subjects to share what is happening in Washington and to hear your concerns. These meetings provide a great opportunity for me to learn how I can better serve you.

Visiting the Preston County Sheltered Workshop

On Thursday, I paid a visit to the Preston County Sheltered Workshop, which provides sheltered employment and services to persons with disabilities who are unable to secure or retain viable employment.  The Workshop’s goal is to train and place individuals with disabilities into a job in the competitive workforce.  It was a pleasure to interact with staff and employees and see the important work this organization is doing.

People with disabilities have the same hopes and dreams as everyone else and want to lead fulfilling lives.  They want to be independent and achieve their full potential, whether it’s pursuing an education or finding a good job.  Congress can and should do more legislatively to make it easier for businesses to provide employment opportunities for those disabilities, whether that is thru tax incentives or other policies.  As the grandfather of a child with special needs, and someone with a severe hearing disability, I am personally aware of the challenges millions of Americans with disabilities and their families face.  As a Member of Congress, I am proud and humbled to be a voice for others who often aren’t able to speak for themselves.

CSX Train Derailment

If you've been impacted by the train derailment in Mount Carbon, CSX is providing assistance. Check here for more info - http://www.csx.com/…/csx-opens-community-outreach-center-f…/

Here's a good recap with what is happening so far - http://www.wvgazette.com/article/20150216/GZ01/150219451

Mountaineers Update

The Mountaineers finished off Monday night with a big win over Kansas. The crowd at the Coliseum certainly helped push the Mountaineers to a close 62-61 victory over the No. 8 Jayhawks. Juwan Staten was able to pull off a quick step layup and give WVU the final lead in the remaining seconds.

This was a big win for the Mountaineers, who seem to have gotten a bit of their groove back. We’ve now made it past twenty wins this season and look set to break into the top twenty. Tomorrow we travel to face No. 22 Oklahoma State. I expect only the best from our boys on the road and look forward to seeing another exciting conference game.

Fun Time with Family

It may have been a busy week in the First District, but I had a great time over the weekend playing Spike Ball with my grandkids.

If you are ever visiting the Washington D.C. area with your family, please drop by my office and say hello. If you want an appointment just give my office a call at 202-225-4172, or submit a request on my website at www.mckinley.house.gov.