Two Members of Congress Visit Little River

People who live in the big city rarely think about how that food on their plate reaches their store or restaurant. It just shows up, right? Fortunately, there's one influential member of congress from the big city who is thinking about the question.

Last Wednesday, Democratic congresswoman Rosa DeLauro of Connecticut visited Little River, Kansas at the invitation of our congressman Jerry Moran. As chair of the House Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration Appropriations Subcommittee-- which oversees a $98 billion budget-- DeLauro came to see firsthand what Kansas farmers do.

Several area agricultural producers met the congressional pair at Cheryl's Cafe for lunch and then went out to visit the farm of Kendall Hodgson, whose a member of our church. Kendall is a no-till farmer who raises wheat, soybeans, milo, corn, alfalfa and also beef cattle. In discussing the challenges that Kansas farmers face, DeLauro also heard from local farmers Kenny Carlton, Nathan Olander, and Randall Olander.

Afterwards, Congressman Moran said in his newsletter:

"With rural areas losing representation in Congress, [DeLauro's visit] was a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between two members of Congress who represent two very different parts of the country. I wish there were more examples in Congress of representatives, regardless of party label, working together to solve problems and improve life for Americans. I am thankful for Congresswoman DeLauro’s interest, time and commitment to issues we care about in Kansas."

I too echo the appreciation. When Democrats and Republicans work together like this, it's a newsworthy event that deserves greater attention.