December 17, 2012
Newtown, Connecticut
The tragedy in Connecticut Friday morning shocked us all, and it is difficult to comprehend how anyone could carry out such a heinous act. My heart breaks when I think about the innocent victims who had their entire lives ahead of them, and what their Moms, Dads, and families must now go through during this Holiday time we normally associate with joy, love and being with family.
There is much to be learned about the circumstances surrounding Friday's tragic events. There are little words that can be given to comfort the families of the children lost, but I offer my full and heartfelt condolences to all those who lost a loved one that Friday morning, and I know they and their families will remain in our thoughts and prayers.
Speaking On CNBC About The Fiscal Cliff
I spoke on CNBC last week about the great need for Congress to arrive at a long-term solution to our country’s rapidly approaching fiscal cliff deadline. I hear from business owners throughout the 3rd District over and over again that they want certainty and as much economic predictability as possible. That means no more short-term, band-aid legislation. We need to take this opportunity to make significant changes about how we spend money as a country, and ensure we leave the country in better shape for future generations.
I joined the CNBC show “
Power Lunch” last Tuesday to speak about the fiscal cliff.
Click here, or on the picture above, to watch my full remarks.
National WWI Museum at Liberty Memorial
Last week, the House passed the Frank Buckles World War I Memorial Act,
H.R. 6364. This legislation would designate the
National World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial in Kansas City as the National World War I Museum and Memorial. The centennial anniversary of the Great War is approaching, and there is no better place in the country to memorialize and honor the brave men and women who served our country in WWI than the Liberty Memorial Museum in KCMO. I thank my friend and colleague,
Rep. Emanuel Cleaver II from Missouri, for his leadership on this legislation, and as a
co-sponsor, I will continue to work to ensure this bipartisan legislation becomes law. The bill now moves to the Senate.
KFB “Friend of Farm Bureau” Award
I was honored to receive the “Friend of Farm Bureau” Congressional award from the
Kansas Farm Bureau (KFB) last week in Washington. This recognition is given each session of Congress to Members who support legislation important to agriculture and rural areas. Kansas City has deep roots in agriculture, and much of our local economy depends on its success. Farming and ranching are tremendously important to the Kansas economy.
I grew up on a Kansas farm, and the values my parents and grandparents taught me on that farm remain firmly with me today. Thank you to the Kansas Farm Bureau for this award and, more importantly, thank you for your leadership in our state on behalf of farmers and ranchers. Presenting the award was Terry Holdren, KFB General Counsel, in my Washington, DC office.
Northeast Johnson County Chamber Breakfast
I joined several Kansas state legislators at the
Northeast Johnson County Chamber of Commerce Legislative Preview Breakfast in Mission. We discussed the most recent updates on the fiscal cliff situation in Washington, and how a long-term solution is needed before January 1st.
Thank you for letting me join you for breakfast. I appreciate the feedback I received.
Bell Ringing at Mission Hy Vee
I had the privilege joining David Perryman and help the Salvation Army by ringing a bell at the Mission Hy Vee. I enjoyed speaking with folks who came up to say hello to David and I, and also donate to the Salvation Army. I encourage everyone to take the opportunity around the Holidays to donate some time in the service of others.
Thank you, David, for all that you do to serve others, and living a life of generosity.
University of Kansas Hospital Recognized
The University of Kansas Hospital received designation last week as an Advanced Comprehensive Stroke Center. This prestigious designation makes the University of Kansas Hospital the only Advanced Comprehensive Stroke Center in the Midwest, and one of only five such centers in the entire country. This is a tremendous recognition and it once again highlights the work and dedication of the staff, who are able to treat the most complex strokes, as well as the top quality care at KU. Rock Chalk Jayhawk!
To read more about the Advanced Comprehensive Stroke Center designation at the University of Kansas Hospital,
click here.
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