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Defaulting on our National Debt in no way Benefits Kansans or Americans
Reckless spending can be the demise of our country’s well-being and endless deficit spending will eliminate the American dream for our children and grandchildren. The Fiscal Responsibility Act is not legislation I would introduce. However, no deal is not a solution, and defaulting on the national debt in no way benefits Kansans or Americans.
Defaulting on our debt would send a message to the world that we are a nation that cannot be trusted to pay our bills. China is watching our ability to govern and would like nothing more than for our standing in the world to be damaged due to default. It is vital to our economy and our national security that we do not default and we preserve the dollar as the world’s primary reserve currency. Governing in a divided government is challenging. It requires negotiation and finding common ground. Unfortunately, President Biden refused to negotiate with House Republicans for months in an effort to intimidate Republicans and pass an unaltered debt increase. This would have opened the door for the Democratic majority to spend even more with no strings attached.
The debt-ceiling agreement does accomplish key conservative priorities that will benefit America and help put our nation on a better path towards fiscal responsibility. This legislation will slow the rate of spending through implementing non-defense caps, cutting COVID-19 relief funds, blocking new tax hikes, slashing billions in funding to the IRS, adding new work requirements for SNAP and promoting American energy production. Additionally, we must fulfill the most important responsibility of the federal government: to protect and defend our country and to keep our promise to the men and women who served our country. The debt-ceiling deal delivers on our commitment to support our veterans. The deal also secures the full funding for toxic-exposed veterans as authorized by the recently passed PACT Act.
Raising the debt limit is not something I or any of my colleagues should take lightly. The debate cannot end with President Biden signing the Fiscal Responsibility Act into law. Congress should not have to wait for a crisis or the debt ceiling to consider fiscally responsible measures. The federal government must spend less, set limits and stop waste. This should become the norm for every Member of Congress and the President. Without a serious long-term plan and subsequent action to reduce spending, we will be back in this position way too soon and will jeopardize the American dream. We must confront this threat head on and – using the debt-ceiling deal as a blueprint – develop a more fiscally responsible legislative agenda.
You can watch my full remarks on the debt ceiling agreement here.
Introducing Legislation to Support Aviation Safety & Accessibility
This week, as lead Republican of the Commerce Aviation Subcommittee, I introduced the Joint Center of Excellence for Advanced Materials and Safety Act with Commerce Committee Chair Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.). In 2004, the FAA established the Joint Center of Excellence for Advanced Materials, formed by the collaborative efforts of Wichita State University and the University of Washington. This legislation broadens the scope of research conducted at the Centers of Excellence to include testing for accessible air travel for people with disabilities, such as in-cabin wheelchair users and passengers with mobility challenges, as well as increases federal resources for the consortium to accommodate additional research capabilities.
Our universities are necessary partners and pivotal contributors to aviation safety research. As the aviation industry continues to evolve, we need to make certain our research partners can continue identifying solutions for advanced structures and materials issues, while meeting the demands of a changing ecosystem to ensure that any passenger who chooses to fly can do so and in a safe manner. I am pleased this legislation will continue to support and invest in the important work conducted at Wichita State University.
VA Deputy Secretary Nominee Testifies before Senate VA Committee
As lead Republican of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, I led a hearing this week to consider the nomination of the current Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Chief of Staff Tanya Bradsher to be the next Deputy Secretary of the VA. The Deputy Secretary position, often described as the Chief Operating Officer of the department, was left vacant when Donald Remy resigned on April 1.
If confirmed by the Senate, Ms. Bradsher would direct organization and policy for the Veterans Health Administration, the Veterans Benefits Administration and the National Cemetery Administration while also carrying primary responsibility for the rollout of the new Oracle Cerner Electronic Health Record across the VA health care system.
Ms. Bradsher is a combat veteran and Bronze Star recipient who served for 20 years in the United States Army. I appreciated meeting Ms. Bradsher and her family at the hearing and the opportunity to hear her testimony about her priorities for the VA if confirmed to this important role.
You can watch my remarks here.
Defense Appropriations Hearing on National Guard & Reserve Budget
This week, the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense held a hearing with the National Guard and Reserve Service Chiefs regarding the FY2024 Guard and Reserves budget. Our Guard and Reserves are called upon to meet the needs of both the nation and their local communities. Ensuring they are properly manned, equipped and trained is a top priority for me.
During the hearing, I asked General Hokanson, the Chief of the National Guard Bureau, for his best military advice on the establishment of the Space National Guard and its associated costs. I want to make sure the Space Force has the necessary reserve forces to achieve success, while also focusing on cost-effectiveness and operational efficiency during the transition from the Air National Guard to the Space Force reserve element. Of all the potential options, the Space National Guard meets this intent.
Additionally, I sought insights from Lieutenant General Daniels, the Chief of the Army Reserve, regarding the significance of the National Guard and Reserve Equipment Account for the US Army Reserve’s ability to meet its requirements. This annual appropriation plays a crucial role in facilitating equipment modernization for the National Guard and all other Reserve Components. Without adequate modernization, their readiness to defend our nation abroad would be compromised.
The National Guard and Reserve Components hold a critical and unique position in safeguarding our nation’s security. However, without the necessary resources and support from Congress, they would encounter difficulties in meeting the needs of their troops and fulfilling their missions. To address this, I will continue advocating for proportional and concurrent allocation of resources for our Guard and Reserve Components. I am deeply grateful for the men and women who have chosen to serve our nation in their local communities and their dedication deserves our unwavering support.
You can watch my full remarks here.
Senate Votes to Repeal Biden’s Student Loan Forgiveness Plan
On Wednesday, I voted in favor of a resolution providing for congressional disapproval of the Biden administration’s decision to forgive federal student loan debt. The decision to forgive federal student loan debt is an overreach of executive power, circumvents the authority of Congress and the Supreme Court is currently reviewing its constitutionality after hearing oral arguments this past spring.
According to the Congressional Budget Office, President Biden’s student loan cancellation plan is estimated to cost taxpayers $400 billion. The student loan cancellation program reflects unprecedented executive overreach by ignoring the fiscal powers vested exclusively in Congress. Where the President has failed in his duty to faithfully execute the law, it is the province and duty of Congress to remind him of that obligation.
Meeting with Kansans
John Leslie, KSU & State Department Fellow
On Wednesday, I met with John Leslie, PhD, a Kansas State University distinguished professor of plant pathology, who is currently serving as a Jefferson Science Fellow at the U.S. Department of State’s Office of Global Food Security in Washington, D.C. We discussed the challenges with global food security and how U.S. agricultural innovations and technologies can help to bridge the gap with food systems in challenged nations. I appreciate his time and insight into the important work being done to feed a hungry world.
Norton Junior High School
I enjoyed the chance to visit with students, parents and faculty from Norton Junior High School during their trip to Washington, D.C. this week. We discussed the importance of public service and how vital it is to be an active, engaged member of one’s community. Thank you to Coach Lucas Melvin and this great group of students for taking the time to visit.
David & Julie Pope of Topeka
It was great to catch up with David and Julie Pope of Topeka on Wednesday before their tour of the U.S. Capitol. During our conversation, I appreciated hearing an update from David on water issues in Kansas and his work in this area.
Michael, Anne & Joseph Perryman of Lawrence
Thank you to Michael Perryman and his children Anne and Joseph for taking a few minutes to speak with me this week during their visit to my Washington, D.C. office. I always appreciate the opportunity to visit with Kansans during their trips to the nation’s capital.
Update from Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
On Thursday, I hosted the Deputy Director General of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations Deputy Director-General Beth Bechdol to hear an update on global food security efforts. Director Bechdol spoke about the global food security challenges around the world, with nearly 258 million people in need of emergency food aid. One of the major challenges we discussed is the need to shift and transform aid to provide global farmers and ranchers with new tools and technical assistance for agricultural development and resiliency. As Co-Chair of the Senate Hunger Caucus, I am committed to working to find ways to bridge these gaps.
Meeting with Chief of National Guard Bureau
On Wednesday, I met with General Daniel Hokanson, the Chief of National Guard Bureau, to discuss the needs and priorities of the Guard. General Hokanson and his team effectively represent the interests of more than 430,000 guardsmen and women across all states and territories within the highest levels of the Department of Defense (DoD). However, the existing rank disparity for General Hokanson’s Vice Chief limits its ability to advocate for soldiers and airmen at the same level and with equal authority as the sister services. I am committed to collaborating with the DoD to address this bureaucratic issue and make certain the Guard’s voice is heard equally.
We also addressed the Guard’s recruitment efforts and its positive results despite the broader recruiting challenges faced by the military. The Army National Guard is projected to meet its recruiting goals, while the Air National Guard is expected to achieve nearly 97% of its target. This success speaks to the Guard’s impact on our communities and its appeal to young men and women.
Additionally, I expressed my support for extending the DoD STARBASE program in Kansas, especially to rural communities. General Hokanson emphasized the program’s positive influence in engaging young minds and fostering interest in STEM. It is crucial to make certain that children have access to the resources necessary for them to achieve success right here in Kansas. I look forward to continuing to partner with General Hokanson to further achieve this goal for our state.
As a steadfast advocate for our servicemembers, I will continue to fight for the resources and support needed to address the Guard’s priorities and to support its critical role in national security and our communities. The Kansas Guard plays an important role, and I am dedicated to making certain that both the Kansas Guard and members of the Guard nationwide have the necessary tools for success.
Speaking at 104th Annual Kansas American Legion State Convention
It was a great crowd at the 104th Annual Kansas American Legion Convention in Topeka on Saturday morning. It is always an honor to address this group and to recognize their service to our nation.
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Bourbon County Courthouse
210 S. National Ave Fort Scott, KS 66701 Phone: 620-223-3800
Fax: 620-223-5832
Bourbon County, Kansas
1st District Commissioner
2nd District Commissioner
3rd District Commissioner
Bourbon County Commission Agenda Uniontown Community Center
June 5, 2023, 5:30 PM
Executive Session Justifications:
KSA 75-4319 (b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy.
KSA 75-4319 (b)(2) for consultation with an attorney for the public body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the
attorney-client relationship.
KSA 75-4319 (b)(3) to discuss matters relating to employer/employee negotiations whether or not in consultation with the
representative(s) of the body or agency.
KSA 75-4319 (b)(4) to discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust and individual proprietorships
KSA 75-4319 (b)(6) for the preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property.
KSA 75-4319 (b)(12) to discuss matters relating to the security measures, if the discussion of such matters at an open meeting
would jeopardize such security measures.
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The members of the Bourbon County Democratic party will meet on Sunday, June 11 at 2 p.m. in Gunn Park Shelter House #2.
Kansas Senator Ethan Corson will be updating on the latest Kansas legislation.
Interested parties are invited to attend.
The Friday Night Concerts return this week with the Hemphill Family Band. They, along with friends, will perform at 7 p.m. Friday, June 9, at the Heritage Park Pavilion located at 1st and Main streets.
Members of the band are Jack Hemphill on keyboard and vocals, Sandy on fiddle and keyboard, and Brad on guitar and vocals. Friends who will perform are Floyd Feezell, who will sing, and Tammy Helm, who will play saxophone.
The Hemphills have performed at the pavilion many times in the past. They play classic country, including a little Hank and Lefty, and a lot of Merle Haggard. They will also play a variety of other songs during the concert.
Come out and spend the evening at the Pavilion. Seating is limited, so bring a lawn chair. In case of bad weather, the concert will moved to Common Ground Coffee Co., 12 E. Wall St.
The community is invited to join a food truck gathering at Woodland Hills Golf Course this Wednesday, June 7 from 5-9 p.m.
In addition, Sharky’s Pub will be selling mixed drinks, said Diane Striler, coordinator of the event. For more info, Striler can be reached at 248.568.7790.
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Governor Kelly Announces 14 Rural Communities Receiving Funding for New Murals
TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced 14 communities will receive funding through the Office of Rural Prosperity’s Rural Mural and Public Art grant program. The $76,071 in grants awarded will allow communities to create 38 new murals and public art projects that engage community residents and create a place for the community to gather and enjoy. Since 2021, the Office of Rural Prosperity has funded more than 43 murals in 25 communities.
“Our Rural Mural program continues to gain momentum as a way to showcase and celebrate small towns across Kansas,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “My administration will continue supporting local community efforts to enhance their sense of place and quality of life.”
Awardees are in communities across the state with less than 15,000 population. The murals will highlight community gathering spaces and tourist attractions – and provide a welcome message for visitors and residents alike. Each of the projects requires a 1:1 match from the community, with the smallest of communities being allowed to match the grant with in-kind donations. 75% of the grant funding will be gifted upfront as several of the city projects plan to start in the next few weeks.
“The Rural Murals already completed have added a unique attraction that communities are proud to display,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce Secretary David Toland said. “As tourism in Kansas is on the rise, particularly in rural areas where visitors increasingly go to get off the beaten path, these new murals will encourage people to experience more great locations across the state.”
The organizations that are being awarded for FY 2024 include:
The Arts Center, Inc.; Anthony and Attica; $7,500
City of Cedar Vale; $1,500
City of Cheney; $3,603
Fort Scott Area Chamber Foundation; $5,250
Northwest Kansas Technical College; Goodland; $4,250
5.4.7 Arts Center; Greensburg; $7,368
Graham County; Hill City; $7,500
Wichita County Economic Development, Inc.; Leoti; $4,500
Vesper Community Club, Inc.; Vesper Township; $7,500
City of Lyons; $7,500
The Greater Manhattan Community Foundation; Blue Rapids Community Action Team Fund, Blue Rapids; $2,350
City of Smith Center; $7,500
City of Uniontown; $2,250
Winfield Area Chamber of Commerce; Winfield; $7,500
“The innovation and creativity that these communities demonstrated in their applications was phenomenal,” said Director of the Office of Rural Prosperity Trisha Purdon. “We can’t wait to see how these new murals and public art projects will help energize these communities and increase tourism and community engagement.”
Keys to the Kingdom
My Mom had planned to name my older brother, “Robert Randall,” and then call him “Bobby.” Well, the delivery room in 1947 was a lot different from today‘s hospital. The birthing process was what we now call, “knock ’em out and drag ‘em out.” Shortly after the baby was born, the nurse asked Mom for his name so she could complete the necessary forms. Mom was so discombobulated that she replied, “Randall Robert” which was exactly backwards. When she read the birth certificate information later in her room, she realized the name wasn’t right. However, she didn’t want to be a bother, so she just let it go. Therefore, she had to switch her preference and call her newborn “Randy.” This is one of the most bizarre family stories I’ve ever heard! My brother lived his entire life being called the wrong name because our mother was such a sweet and peace-loving lady.
The name parents choose for their child is important because names have meanings. God made sure that the Son of God would have the most-appropriate name, so He gave these specific instructions to Mary through the angel Gabriel: “You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will name him Jesus. He will be very great and will be called the Son of the Most High” (Luke 1:31,32 NLT).
When Joseph and Mary were engaged to be married, while still a virgin, she became pregnant through the power of the Holy Spirit. As Joseph considered breaking the engagement, an angel appeared to him in a dream and said: “…Do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife. For the child within her was conceived by the Holy Spirit. And she will have a son, and you are to name him Jesus (meaning The Lord saves)…“ (Matthew 1:20,21 NLT). Both Mary and Joseph were separately told by angels that this child was to be given the name of Jesus. There was to be no confusion, mistakes, guessing, or doubts that the Messiah’s name was to be Jesus.
Salvation through Christ alone is one of the main themes of the New Testament. “There is salvation in no one else! God has given no other name under heaven by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12 NLT). Jesus is the only way to God, salvation, and eternal life. In the book of Acts, the apostles were busy loving and helping people by using the name of Jesus to pray for them.
There are many other titles in the Bible that are given to Jesus. Here are just a few KJV references: Advocate (1 John 2:1), Author and Finisher of our Faith (Hebrews 12:2), Chief Shepherd (1 Peter 5:4), First and Last (Revelation 1:17), Head of the Church (Ephesians 1:22), Light of the World (John 8:12), Mediator (1 Timothy 2:5), Truth (John 1:14).
Jesus’ name is so powerful, He instructs believers to pray to the Father in His name. “You can ask for anything in My name, and I will do it, so that the Son can bring glory to the Father. Yes, ask Me for anything in My name, and I will do it!” (John 14:13,14 NLT). Jesus gave believers the “Power of Attorney” to use His name for every situation we will ever face.
The Key: Don’t answer any questions while coming out from under anesthesia.