Visiting the VA Clinic in Childersburg, touring Sylacauga High School's college and career planning facilities and speaking to the Sylacauga Rotary Club were among Congressman Mike Rogers' visits in Talladega County on Tuesday. Rogers addressed issues ranging from new Veterans legislation passed recently by Congress to the ongoing immigration crisis at our southwestern border.

           Rogers also spent time with Sylacauga Mayor Doug Murphree, Talladega Mayor Larry Barton and Talladega City Manager Brian Muenger to discuss issues facing the cities.  Rogers said he was delighted to be in Talladega County and thanked the mayors for hosting him.

            During his speech to the Sylacauga Rotary Club at the BB Comer Memorial Library, Rogers gave a Washington update touching on the immigration debate in Washington.  "What is happening at our Southwest border is not only an immigration crisis, but a national security crisis," Rogers said. “First and foremost, we must secure our borders. And second, the Federal government needs to return illegal immigrants to their home countries as soon as possible.

            Rogers also talked about the VA scandal and recent VA legislation signed into law by the president.  Rogers called the legislation "a good first step in helping fix a broken VA system.” He added, “Our promise to our Veterans is sacred and the VA must live up to that promise."

            During Rogers' stop at the VA Clinic, he was able to visit with some Veterans and see the facility firsthand.  "Our brave men and women who have served in uniform deserve the very best we can offer them," Rogers added.

            Rogers said he was proud to see the college and career preparation offered by Sylacauga High School.  He said these types of proactive programs keep communities and young people focused on education and jobs. “Our economy is reliant on Alabama’s outstanding workforce and our job creators. This program in Sylacauga is an outstanding example of ways that our schools are helping train our leaders of tomorrow,” he said.

            Rogers serves as a senior member of the House Agriculture, Armed Services and Homeland Security Committees.

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