Torres Invites Ontario International Airport Employee Affected by the Government Shutdown to the State of the Union
WASHINGTON, DC — Today, U.S. Representative Norma J. Torres (D-CA) announced that Joe Rodgers, a Federal Aviation Administration Engineer Technician at Ontario International Airport who was one of the 800,000 federal workers furloughed during the 35-day long government shutdown, has been invited as her guest to the State of the Union address.
"For more than a month, federal workers like Joe Rodgers saw their lives turned upside down by an unnecessary and harmful shutdown. The last thing those entrusted with keeping our skies safe at the nation's airports should ever have to worry about is how to put food on the table or keep the lights on. Despite missing two paychecks, Joe still showed up for his colleagues and offered them support as bills of his own piled up," said Torres. "Joe's dedication and service to others is a testament to the strength of our American civilian workforce. Here in Congress, I'm working to ensure that we are recognizing these workers' value and never allow them to be used as bargaining chips again. I'm honored to have Joe as my guest to the State of the Union tonight."
"Being in Washington and attending the State of the Union is a once in a lifetime opportunity," said Rodgers. "I am appreciative of the chance to be here and for the support we've received from Congresswoman Torres."
Joe is a member of the Professional Aviation Safety Specialists (PASS), AFL-CIO. He has worked at Ontario International Airport for 6 years. Following the shutdown, he and his colleagues have been diligently trying to get back on track as countless projects have fallen behind schedule.
Joe is a longtime resident of Rialto, CA and a proud father and grandfather of 4.
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