Legislative Ball
by Sherri Tucker

I was fortunate enough to attend the Legislative Ball (4 January 2007) in Jefferson City.  I would encourage all Missourians to do this.  It is free and open to the public.  The Senators and Congress persons are in their offices and you may go and speak to whomever you wish.  Most provide refreshments and encourage your input.

I walked down the halls of the Capitol and looked at the names on the doors. It will list the person's name, the district that they represent, and what committees they are on.

I spoke with Representative Kathlyn Fares. She was the chair for the Education Appropriation Committee. I told her of my concerns and told her about the Lee's Summit Autism Support Group. I told her that Missouri is 48th in the country for funding education. Only Arkansas and Mississippi spend less per child than Missouri. I invited her to come to one of our meetings.

I spoke with Representative Jane Cunningham.  She is the chair for the Education Committee. She said that she had a bill that is similar to the one that Ohio has.