Kraus: Representative Government

Representative government is listening to the people.  Two opportunities, discussed below, are coming up for me to listen to you, and I look forward to both.  Please consider coming out and sharing your views.

2010 Open Forum Next Tuesday in Lee's Summit

I will be hosting an Open Forum on Tuesday, March 9, at John Knox Village.  I'll start the forum with an update on legislative activity at the State Capitol, after which the floor will be open for questions and comments from the audience.  This marks the sixth year that I've held an open forum during the legislature's spring break.

This event is especially exciting to me because it allows for two-way communication.  The open forum is great for keeping the community up to date on work at the Capitol, and it is also an excellent opportunity for members of the community to let me know their concerns about state government.  I hope to see you there!

The forum will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the Places Manhattan Room, John Knox Village, on 1001 NW Chipman Road in Lee's Summit.  If you have any questions about this event, please contact me at (573) 751-1459 or by e-mail at will{dot}kraus{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov.

Fourth Annual District Day April 14 in Jefferson City

Don't forget that District 48 Day is coming up on Wednesday, April 14.  Held once a year, District Day provides an opportunity for you to learn about Missouri state government.  I am organizing tours in Jefferson City of the Capitol, the Governor's Mansion, and the Supreme Court.  I'll also be available that day to answer any questions that you might have.  Attendees are responsible for their own transportation to Jefferson City.

We will begin around 10:00 a.m. on April 14 and the last tour will end around 3:00 p.m.  Lunch will be provided and the event is free.  Because spaces are limited, please RSVP, by phone or e-mail, to my office before Tuesday, March 30, 2010.  I hope to see you there!

TeenPact School Comes to Jefferson City

For four years now, I have been speaking at the Annual TeenPact Leadership School held in Jefferson City.  On Monday, I was honored to be able to once again give a presentation and to have the opportunity to serve a group from Eastern Jackson County by providing assistance and sharing the experience of visiting the state capital.

The purpose of TeenPact is to provide students of high school age an experience to make them better leaders who are knowledgeable about government and the formation of public policy.  I always enjoy talking with these students.  Their interest in the responsibilities of government renews my focus on why I am here, which is to represent the people and make Missouri a better place for all of us.   We need good men and women to represent us in Jefferson City, and I encourage these students to continue on to serve the cause of good government.

I would like to thank the advisors, parents and volunteers that helped to make this week's Teen Pact event possible. I truly appreciate all of their effort.

Job Olympics Fundraiser a Great Success

Last Friday, Culver's Restaurant in Lee's Summit held a fundraiser to benefit Job Olympics.  The turnout was great – people ended up taking their food home as carry-out because the restaurant seating was full.  I helped the middle school special needs students deliver trays to the patrons.  It was great fun.   Thanks to everyone for their tremendous support for this worthwhile event.

As noted in an earlier update, ten percent of the proceeds will be donated to the Job Olympics program.  The funds will be used to stage a Job Olympics event for special needs students at Unity Village on April 16.  Over 25 area employers visit that event as the students showcase their skills in a variety of fields and compete for awards.