Dear Fellow Arkansan,
Since the new year has begun, the new Democratic majority in Congress has hit the ground running by taking Congress in a new direction bringing a change of priorities to Washington. The wave of change has even affected my role in Congress, which directly affects how I'm able to serve you.
In addition to serving on the Appropriations committee, I have also been selected to serve on the Budget committee. These two committees set the agenda for budgeting and spending in Congress. As a member of these committees, I will work to reduce our national deficit by restoring fiscal responsibility and accountability to the spending and budgeting processes. It is important for Congress, just like the American people to spend within its means.
Recently, Congress recessed for a district work period. I spent this time traveling throughout eastern and north Arkansas. Traveling the state and knowing your concerns remains a vital part of my service to you.
Below are some of the highlights of the district work period.
$1.3 Million In Grants For Workforce Training
I have been working with my colleagues in the Arkansas Delegation and Governor Beebe to economically jump-start the Delta region. One of our latest successes was a $1.3 million dollar grant that will allow workers to earn their Commercial Drivers License credentials and an Associates Degree in Applied Sciences and General Technology.
 |
Congressman Berry (far right) presents check for ADWIRED grant at Midsouth Community College with Governor Mike Beebe and Department of Labor representative, Emily DeRocco. |
This funding comes from a Department of Labor initiative called the Arkansas Delta Workforce Innovation in Regional Economic Development (ADWIRED) project. The project tries to stimulate local economies by creating strategic plans that prepare workers for high-skill, high-wage jobs.
I am thrilled at this opportunity and I know that this grant is just the beginning of the great things that will be happening for the Delta region of our district.
 |
Congressman Berry (second from left) with Dr. Glenn Fenter and family. Berry presented Dr. Fenter with a plaque recognizing his hard work for MidSouth Community College. |
Berry Meets With Farmers
As a lifelong farmer, agricultural issues will always be important to me. As we plan to write the 2007 Farm Bill, I have been reaching out to the farm community at places like the Craighead County Farm Bureau Breakfast and the Agricultural Business Breakfast in Jonesboro, Annual Agricultural Outlook conference in Blytheville.
These meetings are extremely helpful and I will take your concerns to Congress when we begin writing the new farm bill. If you were unable to meet with me at one of these events, I encourage you to call or write my office and let me know your thoughts on how we can improve the current farm bill and make the new one even better.
Roundtable Meetings With Local Officials
While I was in the district, I met with officials to discuss local issues and what we can do to help them make your community a better place to live and work. We discussed a variety of concerns ranging from transportation to healthcare.
 |
Congressman Berry (second from left) meets with Lonoke Mayor Wayne McGee and Charlie Cummings and Gill Ryker, members of the Lonoke Chamber of Commerce to discuss local issues. |
Office Hours
Even though my work often keeps me in Washington, I always want to be accessible to you. I periodically hold office hours whenever I'm in the district. The next time I'm in your area, I hope you'll join me.
Berry Attends Hattie Caraway Post Office Dedication
Arkansas has a deep history that I'm proud to be a part of. In fact, the first woman elected to the U.S. Senate was from Jonesboro, Arkansas. Hattie Caraway was a remarkable woman who paved a path for future women who dreamed about having a career in politics. That's why I introduced a bill to name the Jonesboro post office in honor of Hattie Caraway.
 |
Congressman Berry with Dr. Nancy Hendricks, Hattie Caraway Actress prepare to meet with constituents after the dedication. |
She was a true pioneer that changed the face of American politics and I hope that this post office will serve as a memorial and inspire others to pursue a career in public service. I was honored to be a part of this dedication of that will stand as a testament to her amazing life.
 |
Congressman Berry dedicating the Jonesboro post office to Hattie Caraway. |
This year has already gotten off to a great start and I am excited about the year ahead of us. As we begin a new legislative year, I strongly encourage you to SEND ME AN E-MAIL of issues important to you and your family. The more we stay in contact, the better I am at representing the views of the 1st Congressional District.
Sincerely,
Marion Berry
U.S. Congressman |
