September 8th bloomed quiet and gray. Springdale Job Corps was humming with anticipation – after a 10 year hiatus, Congressman Earl Blumenauer was coming to visit.

Visiting the same day as the Congressman was MTC CEO Scott Marquart, Central Region VP Anita Sharp, and the central region student personnel officers and center directors.

When the Congressman arrived, he was greeted by students and staff and escorted to the Auto Body paint program where he toured the new paint booth and was guided through the process of the solvent recycler and educated on the things Springdale is doing to maintain green activities, including the new water-based paint system.

Then it was on to the dorms to explore student living and student activities, lead by manager Conan Riojas. The Congressman asked plenty of questions, including if there was anything he could further do to support us and advising us on ways in which we could provide him with information appropriate for him to share his support.

Finally, the Congressman and his assistant were presented with a recyclable gift bag containing Springdale memorabilia and fudge created by the culinary arts trade. Both were thrilled with the bags and are anxious to continue supporting Job Corps!