Around the District

Service Academy Information Day

Do you know someone who is interested in applying to a United States military service academy? On September 17 my office is hosting an information gathering event for students considering application for 2017 appointment to the U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Coast Guard Academy, U.S. Merchant Academy, and the U.S. Naval Academy. More information here.

Supplier Roundtable

Last week I sat down with representatives from small businesses around the community that work with Boeing. We discussed their operations and how we can help by reducing the federal government’s regulatory burden on growing businesses and by encouraging students to pursue STEM fields and other skills like materials science, wood working, and metal working.

Discussing small business issues with Boeing suppliers

Pinning Ceremony

Last Tuesday we had another great Medal Pinning Ceremony at Crazy Otto’s Diner in Lancaster. We presented a long-overdue Army Good Conduct Medal and the Army Commendation Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster to Danny Bazzell, a fellow U.S. Army veteran and fixture in our local veteran community.

Congratulations Danny!

Kiwanis Breakfast

On August 31 I started my morning with at the Kiwanis Club breakfast at the Junkyard in Simi Valley. It was great to catch up with old friends and make new ones over some fantastic food.

Breakfast with Kiwanis Club of Simi Valley

Dedication Ceremony

It was an honor to attend last Wednesday’s dedication ceremony for the Simi Valley Police Officer Michael Clark Memorial Overcrossing. Thank you to the Simi Valley Police Department and everyone else involved in honoring our fallen officer.

Veterans Lunch

After the Dedication Ceremony I caught up with some local Simi Valley veterans at El Patio Restaurant & Cantina for lunch and some excellent conversations. Thanks for having me!

Chatting with local Simi Valley veterans

Farmers Insurance Visit

Following lunch I had the opportunity to meet and talk with local employees at Farmers Insurance Group. I learned about their program to help veterans as they transition out of the military as well how our office can help them with issues they may have with federal agencies.

Giving a legislative update to Farmers Insurance employees

Fighting for Flight

On Thursday I attended the F-35 Lightning II mobile cockpit demonstrator showcase at Skunk Works in Palmdale. The F-35 helps with two of my top priorities: creating jobs and protecting the American warfighter, and I was proud to “fly” it in the Antelope Valley.

“Flying” the F-35 Lightning II mobile cockpit demonstrator

Coffee with a Cop

Last week I met with community members at the monthly Coffee with a Cop, hosted by the Palmdale Sheriff’s Station. I appreciate Capt. Kneer and the deputies that were there to answer questions.

Coffee with a Cop in Palmdale

Ending Veteran Homelessness

I was very happy to hear the VA’s announcement last week about the grants they provided to several local organizations working to help homeless and at-risk veterans and families. Veteran homelessness is a horrible issue in our community and across the country, but by supporting these local initiatives we are taking a solid step toward solving this tragic problem. Read more here.