Blog Post

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Around this time of year, millions of prospective college students around the country are busy with reading brochures, filling out applications and making important decisions about where to go to school.________________________________________________________________________

In this column a few weeks ago, I addressed what has become the predominant issue on the minds of many people across the country - the economy.________________________________________________________________________

This week, the President acknowledged what middle class families struggling to make ends meet already know: the economy is unstable. While the Presidents attention on the economy is welcome, we need real action to support middle-class families and restore the health of our economy for all Americans.________________________________________________________________________

January is National Blood Donor Month and serves as an opportunity to remind the millions of eligible donors across the country, and particularly those in Southern Maryland, that the need for blood donations is always present and that giving blood is an easy way to make a significant contribution and even save a life.________________________________________________________________________

The first session of the 110th Congress came to a close just over a week ago, marking the completion of the first full year under the leadership of the Democratic majority. As we mark the end of one year and prepare for the beginning of a new one, I, like many Southern Marylanders, have found this holiday season to be a time for both reflection and resolution.________________________________________________________________________

For many, this time of year reminds us of what is truly important in our lives the health of our friends, the well-being of our neighbors and the love of all those we hold dear. It is a special time of year, and it is encouraging to hear stories of the tremendous goodwill exhibited by our community. Unfortunately, the holiday season also brings increased risk for families both in terms of fire and theft, but it is also one of the deadliest times of year on America's highways, as the number of drunk drivers rises at a particularly disturbing rate.________________________________________________________________________

The winter holiday season is upon us and I would like to extend warm wishes to everyone in Southern Maryland to have a safe and happy holiday. This is a time when we celebrate the warm traditions of the holidays with loved ones families reunite, gifts are shared, many people partake in preparing and enjoying lavish meals, and make plans to attend parties and gatherings to celebrate the season.________________________________________________________________________