Celebrating Independence Day
As we head into the three-day weekend, I hope all Missourians will take time from celebrating to recognize the true significance of the Fourth of July holiday. Yes, it’s a time to enjoy barbecue and fireworks, but it’s also a time to celebrate our freedoms and to honor the many men and women who have made sacrifices to give us those liberties. So while you enjoy your time with family and friends, keep in mind that all over the world, soldiers and sailors are spending time away from their own loved ones to support the vision of America that became a reality 235 years ago. These brave men and women are spending their Independence Day on foreign soil because of their commitment to preserving the freedoms far too many Americans take for granted. They’re also there to help bring the gift of independence to people who have never experienced what it means to be truly free. Those efforts should serve as a reminder to all of us that freedom is not free and it is only with patriotic dedication that it can be won and protected.
During this Fourth of July weekend, I ask all of you to remember the reason for the holiday. Take some time from your picnics and softball games to send a prayer of thanks - thanks to our forefathers for their vision that produced the greatest nation on Earth and thanks to our soldiers and sailors around the world for their dedication to preserving and protecting that vision. We are truly blessed to live in this great nation. Let us never forget that.
Interim Committee on Budget Transparency
An interim House committee announced recently by House Speaker Steven Tilley, R-Perryville, will spend the next few months looking at ways to improve Missouri’s budget process. Tilley said the House Interim Committee on Budget Transparency will continue the work of a similar interim committee formed last year for the same purpose.
“As Missouri families and business continue to work to do more with less during these tough economic times, we believe state government must do the same,” said Tilley. “I have encouraged the members of the committee to look for ways to root out waste, fraud and abuse in government and ensure a more efficient and accountable state government.”
The committee will be chaired by state Rep. Ryan Silvey, R-Kansas City, who also chairs the House Budget Committee and who served as chair of last year’s interim committee. In 2010, Silvey and his colleagues pored over budget details as they met with representatives from every state department during a series of weekly hearings.
"We’re looking at yet another budget situation that will require state government to tighten its belt in much the same way Missouri families do when times get tough,” said Silvey. “We’ve made a serious commitment to ensuring we have the most efficient government possible – one that doesn’t duplicate services or waste money on ineffective programs. My plan with the committee is to continue that effort and find fiscally responsible solutions for the budget challenges ahead.”
Interim Office Hours
Interim office hours are Tuesday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Normal schedule will resume December 1, 2011. If you need to call me at home, my number is 417-887-3353.
I look forward to hearing from you. If you ever have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact my office. Best wishes.
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