Dear 151st District Constituents,

The summer heat is finally in full drive and August is just around the corner!  School is getting ready to start in a few weeks and last minute vacation plans are being made!  Everyone is very busy this time of year.  Even with all the hustle and bustle that is going on with summer winding down, please remember to take a moment and check on your elderly family, friends and neighbors.  The heat can be very hard on the elderly and many times adverse effects of the heat can come upon a person before they realize what is happening.
 
I have been surprised as a freshman legislator at how busy I am even during this interim period.  We, in Missouri, are set up in a matter that is considered a “part-time legislature”.  I am very much enjoying this time of being home in the district and the opportunities that are being afforded to me from our being set up in this manner.  I am getting to meet with various state department leaders to learn more about how each state department is structured and the duties that fall under each.  I had developed quite a list of questions regarding this during the legislative session and having this time to use learning the answers to these questions will be very helpful this next legislative session.  During session we are called upon to make decisions on funding, rules and regulations concerning each of the departments, having a limited knowledge of these made it very difficult to make these decisions with a great amount of confidence.
 
My office has been receiving quite a lot of calls regarding healthcare related issues.  We are working through these issues as well as looking at possible legislative action for the upcoming session.  We are hoping to resolve these issues with the help of the various departments and will be prepared to offer legislation that will allow these departments to conduct their work with great efficiency while being aware of the duties to the taxpayers in spending state money wisely.

I have noticed in the local papers recently, that quite a few people have celebrated retirements after a long and dedicated career in our local communities and businesses.  If you or someone you know, has or will be retiring, please contact my office, (573) 751-1494, we will be happy to get a resolution or certificate ready for this event to honor all that the retiree has accomplished throughout their career.     

Work is still ongoing regarding the Unclaimed Property List.  If you think you may have unclaimed property, please go to www.ShowMeMoney.com.  This website has all the items you will need to begin the process to claim your property.

If you would like to talk with me or set up a meeting, please call the Jefferson City office, 573-751-1494.