Thanksgiving Greetings
In 1863, during the height of the American Civil War, Abraham Lincoln issued a proclamation declaring a national day of Thanksgiving. Noting the blessings of fruitful fields, President Lincoln called on the American people to acknowledge God’s blessings “with one heart and one voice.” If Lincoln could envision a common bond of thanksgiving during the midst of civil war, surely we can overcome division and find unity today.
In the coming days, we will gather together to continue the tradition of Thanksgiving. We will join hands with family and friends, bow our heads and offer thanks for the blessings we’ve received. We will enjoy the fruits of the farmers’ harvest and the labor of family cooks as we take part in one of the most anticipated feasts of the entire year. Stuffed and satisfied, we’ll settle in for a nap or take our place on the couch to watch the NFL games on Thursday and Sunday (GO CHIEFS!). The more adventurous of us may brave the crowds and participate in the annual Black Friday shopping spree.
Whatever holiday tradition you enjoy, I wish you all the best this Thanksgiving. May your homes be filled with joy as you celebrate the bounty of the holidays!
DISTRICT HAPPENINGS
Early in November, I had the honor of visiting the St. Joseph Police Department and presenting Senate resolutions to three courageous law enforcement professionals. Officers Lucas Winder and Dillon Powell rescued people from a burning building on Nov. 14, 2018. On Dec. 8, 2018, Officer Craig Smith provided life-saving assistance to revive an unresponsive person. It was a privilege to recognize these brave law enforcement officials and thank them for their service to our community.
It was heartwarming to spend a morning at the Northside Head Start Center and witness the smiles on the children’s faces as they each received a new pair of shoes donated by “Shoes from the Heart.” A service of the Community Action Partnership of Greater St. Joseph, the Northside Center does great work promoting the mental, social and emotional development of children in our area. It was great fun helping the kids try on their new shoes and reading them a story.
In mid-November, I was humbled to be named the Freshman Legislator of the Year by the Missouri Chamber of Commerce. The leading advocacy group for Missouri’s business community, the Chamber acknowledged my work as chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, as well as the pro-business legislation I sponsored during the 2019 legislative session. I’m honored to be recognized by the state’s job creators and will continue to focus on policies to grow the economy and create more jobs for Missourians as the Legislature returns in January.
Another legislative priority for 2020 will be finding solutions to the violence that has plagued our cities, including Kansas City and St. Joseph. I recently authored an editorial, which appeared in the Kansas City Star, addressing this epidemic of lawlessness. I will propose common-sense changes to the state’s criminal code and probation rules to reduce violent crime in our cities. This will be a major focus and priority for the upcoming session.
Pre-filing of legislation begins on Dec. 2. In addition to bills addressing crime and violence, I will propose reforms to prevent unexpected and excessive property tax increases. During 2019, many homeowners across the state and in my district received surprise reassessment notices at the last minute, leaving little time for appeal. My legislation will require appropriate notice of reassessment and limit the amount of any tax increases.
It is my great honor to represent the citizens of Buchanan and Platte counties in the Missouri Senate. Please contact my office at 573-751-2183, or visit www.senate.mo.gov/mem34.