Dear Friend,

As we all start thinking about apple crisps and fall foliage, I’d like to reflect on what a spectacular September I had working for you and your neighbors. Let’s recap!

During my time in the district, I got to tour the Gilbert House Children’s Museum, which holds a special place in the hearts of many Salemites. While I was there, we talked about their partnerships with local organizations and the early childhood programming they offer. I also visited Linfield University, where I toured the campus and met with students, staff, and faculty. I am committed to ensuring that all our young people – from pre-K to post-grad – have the support they need to succeed and contribute to a brighter future for our community.

I also had the opportunity to welcome several of our local elected officials to Washington D.C., including Marion County Commissioner Kevin Cameron and Sherwood Mayor Tim Rosener. I met with them to discuss everything from infrastructure upgrades to community initiatives that could benefit from federal support. I will continue to work alongside our local governments and elected officials to ensure that we are collaborating effectively to make life better for you and your neighbors.

Of course, I always make time to meet with constituents when they make the journey to our Nation’s Capital. I had an inspiring conversation with a mother and daughter duo from Sherwood, Juniper and Kerri Riddle, who shared their personal experiences battling Muscular Dystrophy. Additionally, I spoke with Oregon veterans who traveled to D.C. for the September Honor Flight and met with Gold Star family members to share my gratitude and commitment to supporting the loved ones of those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

We also welcomed our fall interns in September! I always enjoy meeting with them and learning more about their goals and ambitions for the future, because they truly are the next generation of leaders. Everyone on Team Salinas – myself included – is very grateful to have such dedicated and hardworking interns. Are you a college student who is interested in government and giving back to our community? If so, I am currently accepting applications for internships in my Salem and Tualatin offices. Click here to learn more and apply!

Finally, I introduced a brand new, bipartisan bill to help grow our mental and behavioral health workforce. My legislation, the Substance Use Disorder Treatment and Recovery (STAR) Plus Scholarship Act, would create a scholarship program for students who are obtaining degrees in the mental or behavioral health profession. The cost of these degrees is astronomical – and my bill would help ease the financial burden on students and ensure we can put more providers on the ground to address the mental health crisis. Click here to learn more.

Here are a few more highlights from September:

• I competed in Brew Across America with our neighbor to the north, Washington Congressman Dan Newhouse, to serve up our PNW Ale! 
• Met with nearly every branch of our U.S. Military to receive their seal medallion.
• Teamed up with Congressman Gabe Vasquez from New Mexico for a fun game in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month.