Senator Coons helps award $1M grant for downstate Habitat for Humanity projects

Senator Coons joined Kent and Sussex County Habitat for Humanity members, bankers, and civic leaders in Frederica, Delaware Friday to help award $1 million in affordable housing grants for four local housing construction projects.

The grants, provided to Central Delaware Habitat and Sussex County Habitat by Fulton Bank and Wilmington Savings Fund Society (WSFS), will be used to complete 17 new housing units in in Frederica, Georgetown, Laurel, and Rehoboth Beach. Kent and Sussex Habitat for Humanity members, along with Jocelyn Tice, Executive Director of Central Delaware Habitat, and Kevin Gilmore, Executive Director of Sussex County Habitat, attended the presentation.

“Simple, decent, and affordable housing is a cornerstone for the American dream,” said Senator Coons. “Thanks to great community partners like Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh, Fulton Bank, and WSFS financially supporting community organizations like Central Delaware Habitat for Humanity and Sussex County Habitat for Humanity, more Delawareans are able to reach their life goal of owning their own home.”

Senator Coons, a passionate advocate for national service, spoke to those in attendance about the value of the services that Habitat for Humanity provides for Delawareans.

“Habitat for Humanity volunteers build communities of hope here in Delaware,” Chris said. “Each grant received enables Habitat to further their mission by building more homes and neighborhoods, but most importantly it allows members of our community to come together to serve one another.”

Click here to learn more about volunteer opportunities with Central Delaware Habitat for Humanity

Click here to learn more about volunteer opportunities with Sussex Habitat for Humanity

Manufacturing Update for July 2014

1. LATEST POLICY
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Passed by the House — Department of Energy Laboratory Modernization and Technology Transfer Act
The House passed H.R. 5120, the Department of Energy Laboratory Modernization and Technology Transfer Act of 2014, on suspension on July 22. The bill is a companion to the America INNOVATES Act (S. 1973), sponsored by Sens. Chris Coons (D-DE) and Marco Rubio (R-FL). Both bills increase the flexibility of the national lab system, allow more flexibility to work with the private sector, and “vertically integrate” the Department of Energy’s energy and science research. H.R. 5120 was introduced by Reps. Hultgran (R-IL-14) and Kilmer (D-WA-6), and is cosponsored by Reps. Fattah (D-PA-2), Johnson (D-TX-30), Lipinski (D-IL-3), Lujan (D-NM-3), Lummis (R-WY), Nunnelee (R-MS-1), Smith (R-TX-21), Swalwell (D-CA-15), and Veasey (D-TX-33). 
More: Kilmer press release 

Presidential actions — Improving workforce training
A new White House report, compiled by Vice President Biden, details strategies for improving federal workforce training.  The report outlines new actions the Administration will take to strengthen program coordination and accountability, expand investment in apprenticeships and effective on-the-job training, and enable federal agencies to pilot promising new training models. The report includes examples of successful job training programs around the country and a number of steps the administration is taking to build on the progress Congress achieved by passing the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).  These steps include competitive grants, a job-driven checklist, improved information, and expanding on programs that have been proven to work.
More: Ready to Work report 

Approved out of Committee — Revitalize American Manufacturing and Innovation Act
The House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology approved H.R. 2996, the Revitalize American Manufacturing and Innovation Act (RAMI), out of Committee by voice vote. RAMI is the House companion to Sen. Brown (D-OH) and Blunt’s (R-MO) National Network of Manufacturing Innovation (NNMI), also known as the Hubs Bill.  Both bills bring together industry, academia, and government to accelerate manufacturing innovation and bridge the gap between basic research and product development.
More: Markup 

Introduced and voted on — Bring Jobs Home Act
Sens. Pryor (D-AR), Stabenow (D-MI), and Walsh (D-MT) introduced the Bring Jobs Home Act, which closes a tax loophole that pays for companies for moving jobs overseas.  It also provides a 20% tax credit to help companies with the cost of bringing jobs back to America.  The bill was cosponsored by Sens. Baldwin (D-WI), Blumenthal (D-CT), Coons (D-DE), Durbin (D-IL), Franken (D-MN), Hagan (D-NC), Klobuchar (D-MN), Markey (D-MA), McCaskill (D-MO), Merkley (D-OR), Reed (D-RI), Rockefeller (D-WV), Schatz (D-HI), Schumer (D-NY), Shaheen (D-NH), Udall (D-CO), Udall (D-NM), Warner (D-VA), and Whitehouse (D-RI). Sen. Stabenow said: “It’s outrageous that, right now, American workers are paying through the tax code to ship their own jobs overseas. We need to close this indefensible loophole and instead start rewarding the companies that are doing the right thing and bringing jobs back to America.” The bill was brought to the floor at the end of July, but the Senate failed to agree to cloture to end debate.
More: Stabenow release | Walsh release

Introduced — COMPETES Act
Sens. Rockefeller (D-WV) and Coons (D-DE) introduced the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2014.  The bill is cosponsored by Sens. Durbin (D-IL), Nelson (D-FL), Pryor (D-AR), and Markey (D-MA). The COMPETES Act extends and enhances federal investments in cutting-edge research and education.  The bill builds on the America COMPETES Act of 2007 and its 2010 reauthorization. The legislation authorizes stable and sustained increases in R&D funding for the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).   The bill also promotes the economic benefits of promising R&D and addresses agency efforts to increase participation in STEM fields, particularly among women and minorities.
More: Coons release

Introduced — Manufacturing Universities
Sens. Graham (R-SC) and Coons (D-DE) introduced bipartisan legislation to help schools strengthen their engineering programs to meet the growing demands of 21^st century manufacturing. The bill would designate 25 universities as ‘Manufacturing Universities.’ Designated schools would receive $5 million per year for four years to meet specific goals, including focusing engineering programs on manufacturing, building new partnerships with manufacturing firms, growing training opportunities, and fostering manufacturing entrepreneurship. “It’s critical that our schools and universities equip students for success in manufacturing and contribute to the research and development that drives advanced manufacturing,” said Senator Coons.
More: Coons release

Senator Coons’ office accepting fall 2014 internship applications

Interested in working for Senator Coons in Washington or Delaware? The Office of Senator Chris Coons is seeking interns for offices in Washington, DC, Wilmington, DE, and Dover, DE for the fall of 2014. Responsibilities include answering phones, greeting visitors, sorting mail, handling requests for flags and tours, and assisting front office as well as legislative staff. Please note that all positions are unpaid, but may qualify for academic credit if eligible. 

This position requires outstanding organizational abilities, strong communication skills, attention to detail, poise, flexibility, and an ability to prioritize in an extremely fast-paced office. Motivated, hard-working, and professional applicants looking to get a taste of Capitol Hill or state congressional offices are encouraged to apply.

Interested candidates should e-mail Eric Wall at Eric_Wall@coons.senate.gov with the subject line reading “Intern” and include a cover letter, resume, and one brief (2-3 pages) writing sample. Applicants should also specify which offices they are interested in applying to. Applications received by Sept. 1 will be given priority. Delaware ties a plus, but not required. Absolutely no walk-ins or phone calls.

VIDEO: Senator Coons weighs in on U.S. involvement in Iraq on MSNBC

Senator Coons, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, joined MSNBC’s Jonathan Capehart on Sunday to discuss U.S. engagement in Iraq, including weekend airstrikes to protect the Yazidi minority group and U.S. personnel from advancing ISIS militants. Senator Coons expressed support for the President’s emergency actions and urged Iraqi leaders to pursue a political solution and form an inclusive goverment.

VIDEO: Senator Coons recaps U.S.-Africa Summit on MSNBC

The historic Africa Summit in Washington last week aimed to cast Africa in a new light and give Americans a real understanding about the opportunities in a diverse set of countries with burgeoning middle classes. Senator Coons joined MSNBC’s Jonathan Capehart on Sunday to discuss key takeaways from the three-day conference involving more than 40 African heads of state.

The Week Ahead for Senator Chris Coons – August 13 to 17

Wednesday, August 13 at 1:00 p.m. – The Senator will visit BASF Chemical Company to tour the facility and meet with employees. The Delaware site is a global supply point of high-performance pigments. Newport, DE – Closed to press.

Wednesday, August 13 at 7:00 p.m. – The Senator will give the commencement address at the James H. Groves Adult High School Graduation Ceremony. The Groves Adult High School is a secondary school designed for adult students working toward a high school diploma. This year marks the school’s 50th anniversary. Sussex Technical High School, 17099 County Seat Highway, Georgetown, DE – Open to press. Contact Brian P. Cunningham at 302-650-7858.

Friday, August 15 at 8:00 a.m. – The Senator will visit the Summer Food Service Program at Bethesda Preschool in Middletown and will distribute breakfast to students. The program provides a stable source of nutritious foods to Delaware children during the summer months while school is not in session. 116 E. Main Street, Middletown, DE – Open to press. Contact Brian P. Cunningham at 302-650-7858.

Friday, August 15 at 10:00 a.m. – The Senator will attend the Change in Command Ceremony for the Dover AFB 436th Wing at Hangar 706. Colonel Richard G. Moore, Jr. will transfer command of the 436th Airlift Wing to Colonel Michael W. Grismer, Jr. Dover Air Force Base, Hangar 706, Dover, DE – Open to press. Contact Brian P. Cunningham at 302-650-7858.

Friday, August 15 at 1:00 p.m. – The Senator will join Central Delaware and Sussex County Habitat for Humanity members, bankers, and civic leaders to help award $1 million in affordable housing grants to complete four Habitat projects. The grants, delivered through Fulton Bank and Wilmington Savings Fund Society, will allow community volunteers and family members to complete 17 new units of Habitat housing in four downstate neighborhoods. 24 Coleman Avenue, Frederica, DE – Open to press. Contact Brian P. Cunningham at 302-650-7858.

Friday, August 15 at 2:30 p.m. – The Senator will visit the Delaware State Police Forensic Firearms Unit, which plays an important role in the investigation of gun crimes in Delaware. Dover, DE – Closed to press.

Friday, August 15 at 5:00 p.m. – The Senator will drop by a Newark Police K9 fundraising event at the University of Delaware Courtyard Marriott Hotel. The event brings together prominent community leaders to support the K9 Department fund. 400 David Hollowell Drive, Newark, DE – Open to press. Contact Brian P. Cunningham 302-650-7858.

Saturday, August 16 at 9:00 a.m. – The Senator will march in the 21^st Annual Middletown Old-Tyme Peach Festival. Broad Street, Middletown, DE – Open to press.

Note: Schedule is subject to change.

Senator Coons honored for commitment to community development

The National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) has honored Senator Coons with this year’s Congressional Partnership Award for his support of community and economic development policies that create jobs and increase the long-term competitiveness of American workers. 

The National Association of Development Organizations is an advocate for federal community and economic development programs, as well as policies that help communities improve their local economies and quality of life. NADO’s biennial Congressional Partnership Award recognizes members of Congress who have been committed to promoting economic development programs at the local and regional level. Read more about NADO here. 

“I’m honored to receive this award from the National Association of Development Organizations,” Senator Coons said. “To keep America competitive, we have to invest in programs that develop and grow our economy, especially at the local and regional level. During my time as New Castle County Executive, I witnessed how critical local development programs are to American workers. While in the Senate, I have made job creation a top priority, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to work with NADO to advance our shared goals.”

“Senator Coons is a true leader who has displayed an unwavering commitment to providing new economic opportunities for our nation’s local communities,” said NADO President Peter Gregory.

As the leader of Manufacturing Jobs for America, a campaign in the Senate to promote legislation that helps manufacturers create jobs, Chris has been a champion for economic growth, both in Delaware and at the national level. The initiative includes more than 30 bills, roughly half of which are bi-partisan. The pillars of the initiative include training a 21^st century skilled workforce, expanding access to capital, opening up markets abroad, and implementing a national manufacturing strategy. Already, seven provisions have been enacted into law, while five more have been passed out of committees. Click here to learn more about Manufacturing Jobs for America and stay up to date on progress.

VIDEO: Senator Coons discusses U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit on MSNBC

Senator Coons talks to MSNBC’s Andrea Mitchell about his goals for the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit and the challenges and opportunties surrounding the three-day event. 

The Week Ahead for Senator Chris Coons – August 4 to August 9

Monday, August 4 at 11:00 a.m. – The Senator will participate in the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum Congressional Panel, part of the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit. African and U.S. trade officials will discuss the future of the AGOA program and U.S. plans to pursue renewal of AGOA legislation. The Senator will share his goals for the legislation during a panel discussion titled “Congressional Views on Renewing AGOA.” World Bank, Prescott Auditorium, 1818 H Street NW, Washington, D.C.

Monday, August 4 at 4 p.m. – The Senator will co-host the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit Congressional Reception for African Heads of State. The Senator will join the chairs of the Senate Foreign Relations and House Foreign Affairs Committees to welcome African leaders to Capitol Hill. 325 Kennedy Caucus Room, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C.

Tuesday, August 5 at 9:00 a.m. – The Senator will attend the U.S.-Africa Business Forum, hosted by the U.S. Department of Commerce and Bloomberg Philanthropies. The full-day forum will focus on strengthening trade and financial ties between the United States and Africa. President Obama, Secretary Pritzker, Mayor Bloomberg, and other senior U.S. government officials will participate along with CEOs from top U.S. companies. Mandarin Oriental, 1330 Maryland Ave SW, Washington, D.C.

Tuesday, August 5 at 7:00 p.m. – The Senator will attend the White House Dinner on the occasion of the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit, hosted by President and Mrs. Obama for African heads of state and government and select guests. The White House, Washington, D.C.

Saturday, August 9 at 11 a.m. – The Senator will attend the 2014 Eastern Shore AFRAM Festival. Each year this African American festival shares the unique contributions made throughout the Diaspora by the ancestors and their descendants to the arts, history and cultures of the World. Seaford Sports Complex, Seaford, DE.

Note: Schedule is subject to change.

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The Week Ahead for Senator Chris Coons: July 28 to August 2

Monday, July 28 at 9:00 a.m. – The Senator will speak at the Young African Leaders Initiative Presidential Summit. The Senator will participate in the Congressional Forum on Investing in the Next Generation of Africa, a panel discussion moderated by Cokie Roberts. Omni Shoreham Hotel, Regency Ballroom, 2500 Calvert Street, NW, Washington, D.C.

Monday, July 28 at 12:30 p.m. – The Senator will join the Delaware delegation for an event honoring UDairy Director Melinda Litvinas who is being honored by the White House this week as a “Future of American Agriculture” Champion of Change. 342 Dirksen Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C.

Monday, July 28 at 3:00 p.m. – The Senator will preside over the Senate until 4:00 p.m. Senate Chamber, U.S. Capitol, Washington, D.C. – Open to press who wish to sit in the Senate Gallery.

Monday, July 28 at 4:00 p.m. – The Senator will speak on the Senate Floor about the progress of his Manufacturing Jobs for America campaign to pass good manufacturing bills in Congress. Senate Chamber, U.S. Capitol, Washington, D.C. – Open to press who wish to sit in the Senate Gallery. Note: Exact time subject to change.

Tuesday, July 29 at 9:30 a.m. – The Senator will attend a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on nominations. 226 Dirksen Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. – Open to press. Contact Judiciary Committee’s Jessica Brady at 202-224-7703.

Tuesday, July 29 at 10:00 a.m. – The Senator will attend a Foreign Relations Committee hearing on Iran, focusing on the status of negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program. 419 Dirksen Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. – Open to press. Contact Foreign Relations Committee’s Adam Sharon at 202-224-4651.

Tuesday, July 29 at 11:00 a.m. – The Senator will attend a Budget Committee hearing examining the economic and budgetary consequences of climate change and focusing on the cost of inaction. 608 Dirksen Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. — Open to press. Contact Budget Committee’s Eli Zupnick at 202-224-5398.

Tuesday, July 29 at 3:20 p.m. – The Senator will chair a Foreign Relations Committee hearing to consider the nomination of Donald Heflin to be Ambassador to the Republic of Cabo Verde. 419 Dirksen Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. – Open to press. Contact Foreign Relations Committee’s Adam Sharon at 202-224-4651.

Wednesday, July 30 at 9:00 a.m. — The Senator will attend a Senate Democratic Steering and Outreach Committee meeting. The discussion will bring together advocacy groups and national organizations to discuss challenges facing students, including student loan debt and college affordability. U.S. Capitol, Washington, D.C. – Closed to press.

Wednesday, July 30 at 1:30 p.m. — The Senator will co-host a Senate Law Enforcement Caucus event with Senator Roy Blunt (R-Mo) on Regional Information Sharing Systems, tools that keep state and local officers connected and allow access to law enforcement databases across jurisdictional boundaries. 485 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. ­– Open to press. Contact Jamie Serlin at 202-224-5042. 

Wednesday, July 30 at 2:00 p.m. – The Senator will preside over the Senate until 3:00 p.m. Senate Chamber, U.S. Capitol, Washington, D.C. – Open to press who wish to sit in the Senate Gallery. 

Wednesday, July 30 at 3:00 p.m. – The Senator will speak on the Senate Floor about the upcoming U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit. Senate Chamber, U.S. Capitol, Washington, D.C. – Open to press who wish to sit in the Senate Gallery. Note: Exact time subject to change.

Thursday, July 31 at 9:00 a.m. – The Senator will host a pen and pad press conference with reporters to preview the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit and discuss goals for U.S.-Africa trade policy. 127-A Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. – Open to press. Contact Jamie Serlin at 202-224-5042 or Jamie_Serlin@coons.senate.gov to RSVP.

Friday, August 1 at 10:00 a.m. – The Senator will attend the formal dedication ceremony for the new Armed Forces Reserve Center, headquarters for the Delaware Army and Air National Guard and Navy Operational Support Center. Delaware National Guard/Armed Forces Reserve Command, 250 Airport Road, New Castle, DE. – Open to press. Contact Brian P. Cunningham at 302-650-7858.

Saturday, August 2 at 12:00 p.m. – The Senator will attend the Delaware Pride Festival. Leg Hall Lawn, Dover, DE.

Note: Schedule is subject to change.