Successful August Town Hall Meetings and District Work Period Come to an End
By: U.S. Congressman Lincoln Davis

I have made it one of my highest priorities to be back in the district every weekend. The month of August is a designated "district work period" for members of Congress to return home for 4 weeks to meet with constituents and to take some time off to be with family. I spent my time traveling throughout the district so I could go back to Washington with a stronger grasp on issues that affect you. In all we had a total of 69 meetings, including scheduled open town hall meetings.

These open forums are one of the many ways to stay in contact with you. The town halls were very well attended and the audience asked serious questions about the Bush administrations current fiscal policies, military developments in the Middle East, and prescription drugs among other issues. This is the third time since November 2002 that I have held open meetings across the district. I always appreciate hearing from my constituents. Ultimately, you dictate what actions I take on legislation, and the more feedback I get the better representation I can provide.

During the town hall meetings I also fielded many questions about constituent services my office provides (veterans benefits, Social Security, and disability benefits, etc.). The Washington, D.C. office is where legislative business is conducted, and my district offices in Jamestown, Rockwood, and Columbia are where many constituent needs are brought to my attention. These office locations were selected to give people in each region easy access to our services and staff. Our field representatives go to each county on a monthly basis. So be sure to listen to your local radio station or read your local paper for announcements of the times and locations. I want to make sure you know we are here to serve you.

During this work period I had the privilege to meet with constituents and community leaders. My travels in August took me from one end of the district to the other. I hope through these meetings we can build a better, stronger, and brighter future for the 4th District. I will continue to travel through the district fighting for jobs, better schools, and a more reliable prescription drug program.

Congress resumed the first week of September where we expected a full legislative schedule with appropriations bills going to conference, debate on the energy bill, hearings on the space shuttle Columbia's accident, and a continuing debate on prescription drugs.

Congressman Davis can be reached by phone in Washington, D.C. at (202) 225-6831.