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Dear Friend,
Happy Cinco de Mayo!
This week, we're trying something new. Instead of sending out the Carson Courier on Friday, we're moving it to Monday so you can find out what's in store for the week ahead, not just what we accomplished last week.
Drop us a line at jennifer.wagner@mail.house.gov to let us know which day you like best – and offer your suggestions for upcoming editions of the Courier.
As you may know, tomorrow is Primary Election Day in Indiana, and I hope you'll take advantage of the opportunity to have your voice heard. Information about your polling place and registration is included at the end of this newsletter.
Much of my work in Washington these days is devoted to meetings on the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). That's the federal law that authorizes spending for our military and Department of Defense programs.
The negotiation process is ongoing, but I want you to know that I am very focused on making sure we are providing appropriate mental health screenings and treatment for members of the military. I am also committed to protecting more than 1,000 local jobs at the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) facility in Lawrence.
I will keep you posted on the NDAA as we move forward, but I wanted to give you a glimpse of what's going on in Washington this week.
Sincerely,
André
Inside Scoop
Computers for Kids
Last Friday, I delivered three retired computers from our office to the Kaleidoscope Youth Center at the MLK Community Center in Indianapolis. Kaleidoscope is a neighborhood-supported safe place that provides after-school programming, summer day camps and other activities for Indianapolis youth.
We are able to donate decommissioned office equipment to local non-profits after a certain period of time. It was a great experience speaking to the kids there about their life goals and how they will work hard to achieve them.
Celebrating our Latino Community
Over the weekend, I took part in the ribbon-cutting ceremony at this year's Indiana Latino Expo at the State Fairgrounds with Gov. Mike Pence and Mayor Greg Ballard. It was an outstanding event, and I was proud that my office was there all day to help constituents connect with the services they need. Thanks to everyone who planned the Expo this year!
Reminder: 2014 Youth Opportunities Fair on May 15
On May 15, I will host our first Youth Opportunities Fair along with the Marion County Commission on Youth (MCCOY) and Shortridge Magnet High School. It will take place from 4-7 p.m. at Shortridge, and it is free and open (no registration required) to anyone who wants to attend. I hope to see families there from across the Seventh Congressional District!
The event will feature local service providers, businesses and groups that offer youth summer programs, internships, volunteer opportunities and jobs. Our goal is to present local students and parents with a variety of summer options so they can explore different summer possibilities before the end of the school year.
Voting: Our Privilege and Responsibility
One of the greatest privileges of being an American citizen is the opportunity to voice your opinion through the electoral process. The 2014 primary election is tomorrow, and you might be wondering where and when you can vote.
Check your polling place at indianavoters.in.gov
Below are important dates for Indiana voters:
May 6, 2014 – Primary Election Day
May 20, 2014 – Voter Registration Begins
October 6, 2014 – Voter Registration Ends
November 4, 2014 – General Election Day