Remembering Harold Stones
I was saddened by the news of Harold Stones passing on Thursday. Harold was an exceptional Kansan. He was a representative for bankers across Kansas and a true public servant, who never shied away from hard work and was dedicated to making Kansas a great state. He was always present – offering a helping hand, showing leadership, working to solve problems – and always treating others with care and compassion. I enjoyed talking with Harold and was encouraged by his constant optimism. Robba and I are praying for his loved ones, and he will be dearly missed.

You can read more about Harold here.

Recognizing Leawood Mayor Peggy Dunn
This week, I spoke on the Senate floor to honor retiring Mayor Peggy Dunn. Leawood Mayor Peggy Dunn has been serving as mayor since 1997 and contributed greatly to the Leawood community. Through her leadership, new shopping centers, religious buildings, fire stations, parks and recreational centers have been developed and bring beauty and life to the area. I congratulate Peggy on her retirement and wish her the best in the future.

You can watch my floor remarks for Mayor Peggy Dunn here.

Recognizing Lenexa Mayor Michael Boehm
Lenexa Mayor Michael Boehm is the longest-serving Mayor in Lenexa’s history. During his time as mayor, Lenexa grew exponentially both residentially and economically with nearly 20,000 new residents and the development of a new downtown district known as City Place. Congratulations to Mike on his retirement, and I look forward to seeing what this next chapter holds for him.

You can watch my floor remarks for Mayor Mike Boehm here.

Celebrating 4 Years of Space Force
This week, I attended the 4th Anniversary celebration of the U.S. Space Force and engaged in discussions with the Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall and General Saltzman, Chief of Space Operations. I had the opportunity to talk with Air Force Secretary Kendall about the strategic significance of the B-21 Raider. Contributions to a major weapon system such as the B-21 underscores Kansas’ vital contributions to national defense initiatives. I also talked with General Saltzman about the establishment of the Space National Guard. I highlighted my support for the Space National Guard Establishment Act, which proposes the formation of a Space National Guard in the seven states and one territory who already have Air National Guardsmen currently performing space missions.

As a Space Force Caucus Co-Chair, I will continue advocating for the Space Force and all our military services, ensuring they are adequately resourced to meet the national security objectives of the United States.

 

Visits Across Kansas
Osage City High School
On Friday, I had the opportunity to tour Osage City High School. I was encouraged by the staff’s dedication to their students and the opportunities students have to pursue their many and varied interests. Thank you to Superintendent Ted Hessong and the staff and students for giving me a tour.

 

Council Grove Chamber of Commerce
Later on Friday, I visited the Council Grove Chamber of Commerce. I was able to meet with members and leaders of the community and discuss the Farm Bill, securing the Southern Border, and funding to Ukraine and Israel. Thank you to the Council Grove Chamber of Commerce for hosting me at their Trade and Tourism Association Annual Meeting.

 

Commanding General’s Holiday Reception 
On Friday evening, I attended the First Infantry Division Commanding General’s Holiday Reception at Fort Riley. This event was attended by numerous community leaders who work tirelessly to support Fort Riley, its soldiers and their families. This reception was also a reminder that even in the absence of U.S. involvement in war, servicemembers and their families continue to sacrifice to protect our freedoms.

Please be thinking of the soldiers and families of the 1st Infantry Division Combat Aviation Brigade, which is currently deployed to Europe and will be separated from their loved ones during this Christmas season. Thank you to Major General Meyer for hosting myself and the Fort Riley community for this special event.