If They Only Knew . . .

Senate Republicans recently held caucus meetings right here in Kansas City as they geared up for the 2008 legislative session. Of course I was not invited to strategy sessions, but since the bulk of the meetings were held in my district, the lobbyist for UMKC gave me a heads up that the "enemy" was coming to town and he asked if I wanted to see "A Christmas Carol" at the Rep with my colleagues from across the aisle. I politely declined.

I was thrilled to learn the Republicans dined at the scrumptious 1924 Main. It's an excellent restaurant in the heart of my district. Of course, all of us locals know the place as the "Old Dixie Bell." Kudos to the event planner -- the visual made my week.

What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?

Every New Year's Eve for as long as I can remember I've hosted some kind of party. As a kid it was usually terrorizing the babysitter while our parents gathered at a house down the street to watch the ball drop on the TV in Times Square. As I got older I started to host my own affairs complete with punch and fondue. Over the years the guest lists grew, but the theme remained the same -- "I Don't Have Anything Better To Do, So I'm Going to Jolie's for New Year's Eve Party."

Well I'm happy to report that although the time and location have changed this year, the party is still on as scheduled. Due to the fact that I went and got myself elected to office last year, we have decided to add a little fund-raising (or "fun-raising" as I like to call it) twist to this year's party. So here's a link to the 4-1-1. This will essentially take you to the e-vite that lets you know it's from 5:30-7:30 at 3633 Charlotte in KC,MO. The event benefits three progressive women candidates: Senator Jolie Justus, Representative Beth Low, and Democratic candidate for Representative of the 44th district Amy Coffman. There is a suggested donation of $25 per person. All donations up to the legal limit are appreciated.

Host Committee
Arthur Benson
Molly Benson
Andrea Bough
Steve Bough
Paul Levota
Hon. Ralph Monaco
Brett Shirk
Richard Speidel
Rep. Mike Talboy
Crystal Williams
J. Dale Youngs

So there you have it. You put it off for the last month. You didn't make any plans for New Year's Eve -- and now you have something to do. Problem solved! You're welcome.

The H is O

After four days of no heat, water, or electricity of any kind, I'm happy to report that the Heat is On! There are still thousands of folks around the state without electricity tonight, so please send warm thoughts their way. There are also a lot of men and women out there busting their humps to get power restored in some pretty nasty weather. Thanks for all your hard work.

There Ought to Be a Law -- Update

Thanks for the great ideas! My staff and I are reviewing the suggestions and we'll keep everyone posted on the feasibility/progress of your ideas.

There Ought to be a Law

This is the time of year when legislators file bills for the upcoming legislative session. You ever say to yourself "There ought to be a law. . . .?" Well this is your chance to give me your ideas. Doggie Dining? Midwifery? Noodling? What Missouri law would you like to see changed?

Ice Fun

I've been in Jefferson City for the past couple of days for committee meetings. A nasty ice storm knocked out the electricity at the place where I stay when I'm down here and it took my heat and water with it. About 44,000 households lost power initially and they have restored about 12,0000 so far. I get a robocall about every 8 hours from the power company telling me to press 2 if I still don't have power. I'm starting to wear out the 2 key on my phone, so I'm up at the Capitol warming my toes and using the computer.

It's funny because this summer I went to a wedding on a remote beach in Mexico. It was only accessible by 45 minute boat ride -- deep in the jungle. The power went out there, but it was back on in a little over 24 hours. I found out later the owner of the resort told the Mexican officials that a senator from the United States was staying at the resort and he needed the power on ASAP. It always amazes me how things can get accomplished so quickly in other parts of the world, but it takes forever to handle a crisis in the wealthiest country in the world. Sigh. Guess I should head back to the ranch and do my best to keep the doggies warm.

Student Government

Yesterday I had the pleasure of speaking to David Alexander's government class at Kansas City Academy. This was my second visit to KC Academy. The first time I had just been elected and really only had campaign stories and promises to share. What a difference a year makes!

I was really impressed with the class. They did their homework on the issues and had great questions. I was surprised to find out they had even read several postings from this blog.

When I signed on to my blog today I realized it's been over three months since my last post. Yikes. Thanks to the students of KCA -- you've inspired me to start posting again. We may be on a break from legislative session, but politics does not take a break. 34 days until session starts. 331 days until we elect a new president. 403 days until Governor Jay Nixon is sworn into office. No rest for the weary -- or the wicked.