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December 1, 2015

Smaller is Better

Dear Friends,

I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving filled with good food, laughter and, most importantly, family and friends. Spending quality time with the people we love is the best part of the holiday season, but I also love the opportunity to spoil the special people in my life. I enjoy the search for a meaningful gift, and relish the moment when it brings a smile to their faces.

As you start the hunt for the perfect stocking stuffers or Hanukkah presents, I hope you will join me in supporting small businesses this season.

Since 2010, the Small Business Saturday campaign has served as an important reminder that when you spend money at small, locally-owned businesses, those dollars are more likely to stay in the community. And in Rhode Island, where small businesses account for 96 percent of our state’s employers, the impact is significant. Small businesses are the main engine for economic growth and job creation, and when we shop small, we are investing in our state. This is a commitment we should make, not only all season long, but every day of the year.

I am fortunate to have the opportunity to tour many small businesses in our state, and I see time and again that the hardworking owners and staff are committed to helping Rhode Island grow. On my blog, Langevin Hits the Rhode, I post regularly about businesses I have visited. Before you head out on your next shopping excursion, I encourage you to check out the blog and learn more about the small businesses that you can support in your area.

Together, we can make the holidays an even more meaningful time of year for our state, for small businesses and, ultimately, for the loved ones unwrapping these local gifts.

Sincerely,

Break from the Action

One of my greatest achievements was when my Lifespan Respite Care Act was signed into law in 2006. Much has changed since then, but the need for strong, coordinated respite care services has not. I recently introduced legislation that would reauthorize the program at $15 million per year over five years, ensuring that family caregivers have the support they so desperately need.

Issuing a Challenge

As co-chair of the Career and Technical Education Caucus, I believe we must support programs that produce a skilled workforce for high-wage, high-skill careers. STEM industries are on the rise, and I want Rhode Island students to be ready to seize those opportunities. To spark interest and sharpen skills, I have launched my Congressional App Challenge for high school students. Entries will be accepted through January 15, 2016, so please spread the word!

Join the Conversation:

Save The Date

LUNCH WITH LANGEVIN

Don’t miss a chance to share your thoughts!
December 12, noon-2pm
Serio’s Pizzarama
405 Church St, Pascoag

Did You Know...?

FIGHTING FIRE WITH TRAINING

Thanks to federal grant funds, the Warwick Fire Department was able to build a training facility that will be available to firefighters statewide. ››

FAST FACT

As tax season nears, remember that if you make a gift to charity, there are potential tax deductions you should know about. ››

In Other News

TRAINING GROUND

During National Apprenticeship Week, Rep. Langevin delivered a floor speech supporting programs that train young people with marketable, in-demand skills. ››

HOUSING VETERANS

Rep. Langevin honored Veterans Day by supporting and celebrating housing programs that fight veteran homelessness. ››

TRAVEL ADVICE

During the busy holiday travel season, Rep. Langevin advised constituents to be vigilant and highlighted that TSA is continually reviewing safety protocols. ››

THANK YOU, FATHER

Rep. Langevin appeared in a PBS segment profiling the chaplains responsible for spiritual guidance in the U.S. House and Senate. ››

HAVE YOU HURD?

Policy impacting the auto industry was on the agenda during Rep. Langevin’s tour of Hurd Auto Mall in Johnston. ››

JOBS AT EB

Rep. Langevin, who co-chairs the Congressional Submarine Caucus, supported the opening of a new facility for the Ohio Replacement Program at General Dynamics Electric Boat. ››

LET IT SNOW

Rhode Island received an additional $2.37 million, supported by Rep. Langevin and the rest of the delegation, to pay for expenses incurred during severe winter weather last year. ››

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