Kansas Common Sense
Wishing Kansans a Happy Labor Day
Sep 06 2022
Kansas is a thriving hub for many industries – including agriculture, aviation and manufacturing – because of the dedication of Kansas workers. I hope each of us had the opportunity to enjoy the time with friends and family and to reflect on these important contributions Kansans make.
It was great to be in Louisburg for their Labor Day Parade. I enjoyed the chance to speak with a number of folks throughout the parade including Colby, David and Arden Jones!
National Suicide Prevention Month
September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. I co-authored legislation to designate 9-8-8 as the national mental health crisis hotline to help Americans have better and easier access to mental health resources. This easy to remember number recently became available in Kansas and nationwide. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, I encourage you to call 9-8-8.
Help us end the stigma of mental health. There is always hope – even on the darkest days.
Inauguration of Kansas State University President Dr. Richard Linton
On Friday, I was honored to attend the inauguration of Dr. Richard Linton to be President of Kansas State University.
Throughout my conversations with President Linton, he has demonstrated a vast agricultural knowledge; a commitment to bring new educational, economic and research opportunities to the university, Manhattan and the entire state; and exemplary leadership skills. I have no doubt President Linton will further K-State’s mission to train and educate students to advance the well-being of Kansas and the world. Congratulations, President Linton.
It was also great to be at Bill Snyder Family Stadium on Saturday for K-State's season-opening victory over South Dakota.
This week, the Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration awarded $51.4 million in grants to the South Kansas Coalition, led by Wichita State University, to strengthen aerospace production in southern Kansas. Congratulations to Wichita State University and the South Kansas Coalition on a successful bid for a significant investment to further expand and advance the state’s aerospace manufacturing capabilities. I was pleased to express support for this project to both the Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Administration and look forward to the growth that will occur within the aerospace community both in the state and across the country thanks to this investment.
Visiting Goodland High School
On Monday, I visited Goodland High School to speak with school leaders and students. During the visit, I heard about Goodland High School’s FFA program and how it contributes to the future success of Kansas agriculture. FFA plays an important role in cultivating our future leaders and inspiring students to continue our state’s ag industry. Thank you to Principal Shane Hollern, Superintendent Bill Biermann and ag teacher Nicole Hadley for hosting me during this visit and for the work they do to invest in our next generation of leaders.
Stops Across Kansas
Bern
This week in Bern it was great to talk with folks during my stops at the State Bank of Bern, Bern-Sabeth Veterinarian Clinic, Bern Meat Plant, Duffer’s Repair & Supply and Alphia Pet Food Manufacturing. Thanks to all in the Bern community who took the time to speak with me.
Troy
This week, I also stopped in Troy to talk with folks at the Doniphan County Courthouse, Kansas State Research and Extension, Exchange Bank & Trust, Euler Abstract & Title Co, First Option Bank, Troy USD #429 District Office, CENEX and McCauley Farms. Thank you to everyone in the Troy community who took the time to visit with me.
St. Joe's Store
On Saturday morning, I visited St. Joe’s Store in St. Joseph on my way to the Clyde Watermelon Festival. Thank you to store owner Marty Hotes for his warm welcome!
Clyde Watermelon Festival Parade
It was also great to attend the 123rd Annual Clyde Watermelon Festival Parade on Saturday!
Announcing Federal Resources for the Amelia Earhart Airport in Atchison
This week, I joined Senator Roger Marshall and Congressman Jake LaTurner to announce two grants from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the Amelia Earhart Airport in Atchison. These resources will be for design and land acquisition reimbursement associated with the non-construction phases of planned Runway 9/27, which will be 4,000 feet in length.
Our local airports play a vital role in providing economic opportunities for our state and critical resources for the surrounding community. This investment for the Amelia Earhart Memorial Airport will make certain the airport can continue to provide safe and efficient travel for Kansans and visitors to Atchison County.
On Thursday, I visited the Omaha VA Medical Center to speak with staff and patients about the health care services this center provides to our nation’s veterans and their families, including residents of portions of Kansas. As the lead Republican on the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, one of my priorities is making certain we provide quality care for our veterans who have dedicated their lives to serving our country. I want to extend my thanks to Associate Director Jenny Rosenbalm for hosting me during this visit and for providing the opportunity to have important conversations with the patients and employees at this facility. Special thanks as well to all at the Omaha VA Medical Center who provide quality care and vital resources for our veteran community, especially to our veterans from Northern Kansas.
Kansans in the Office
Capitol Tour
Eric Coleman of Manhattan
Jurdene Coleman of Manhattan
Ty Compton of Holton
Keith Mispagel of Fort Leavenworth
Pat Toby of Holton
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