Having a solid credit score has been important for quite a while now, and it’s becoming more important as lending tightens up. Even someone who is confident their credit score is good should be making sure it stays that way. There are some relatively simple steps you can take to help yourself build up and maintain your credit score.

1. Get a Copy of Your Credit Report

Although you can’t get your exact credit score for free, you can get a free copy of your credit report from each of the three credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax and TransUnion) once each year. To do so, visit AnnualCreditReport.com and request a report.

This is actually the only way to get your reports for free; the site was created in response to federal legislation requiring that the three national credit reporting companies inform consumers about their status. Companies like FreeCreditReport.com actually charge you for expenses related to obtaining your credit report.

2. Make Sure You’re Aware of Any Existing Accounts

Typically, your credit report will show any accounts you have open. It’s easy to forget about credit accounts that you don’t actually use, like credit cards you stopped using but chose not to close the account ‘just in case.’

These credit accounts can easily represent the most likely upcoming dings to your credit: card companies and other lenders have started closing inactive accounts in order to limit their liability. As the amount of credit a person has goes down, so does their credit score. Be aware of this so that if your accounts do close, you won’t be taken by surprise.

3. Set Up Automatic Payments

One of the easiest credit score factors you can control is how good you are about making payments on your current balances. Even if you don’t usually carry a balance, making a payment or two late can cause a preventable dip in your credit score. Automatic payments can be a simple way of avoiding even one late payment.

4. Get Serious About Your Balances

One of the factors in a good credit score is how much credit you have available. That means that reducing your current balances has a direct connection to helping your credit score. Even adding a few dollars to your minimum monthly payment is enough to at least get you started on an upwards trend. Moving around debt, say to a zero-interest credit card, doesn’t actually help with your overall credit score.

5. Keep Your Number of Cards Constant

While your available credit is a key factor in your credit score, opening a bunch of new credit cards just to increase the amount of credit you have available won’t really help. Instead, the system used to determine credit scores reads such a move as a need for more credit: if you open several cards in a short time span, credit reporting agencies assume that you plan to use that credit and might even be planning to get yourself into some trouble with it.

Since closing unused credit cards can also have a negative impact on your credit, keeping your number of cards constant is usually the best compromise between getting the best credit card options and maintaining your good credit score.

Sources:

  Lifehack March 12, 2009

Robinson Building Corporation

2900 NW BUTTON RD. 

Topeka, KS  66618

PROUD TO BE A WESTAR ENERGY SAVER BUILDER

ABOUT US

Robinson Building Corp. is a Kansas Corporation established in December of 1995 and specializes in commercial and residential construction. Terry Robinson, president and founder, has worked in the construction industry for over thirty years in Topeka and the surrounding areas. He presently holds licenses in Johnson County, Topeka and Manhattan, Kansas.  Terry presently serves on the board of directors of the Topeka Home Builders Association and is a member of the National Home Builder Association and the International Code Council.

Robinson Building Corp. is a builder of fine single family homes in the Topeka and Manhattan area. We also specialize in interior commercial remodeling projects for office and retail clients. Past and current clients include Hills Pet Nutrition, Maximus, and Ferguson Enterprises. Past and current regional clients include Papa John’s franchises, Associated Commercial Brokers, Berlin Wheeler and The Kansas Corporation Commission.

Quality craftsmanship and attention to detail by our staff and sub contractors is the emphasis of every project and we are fully insured and licensed for your protection and peace of mind.

OUR ENERGY POLICY

We believe the best way to help the environment is to conserve the energy and materials we already have. Robinson Building’s commitment to protecting the environment and reducing the carbon footprint of each home has led us to use the following materials and products:

• Energy efficient vinyl casement windows with Low-E glass
• R-13 Ultra-Fit, pressure applied fiberglass insulation
• R-38 blown in attic insulation
• Wind barrier house wrap
• 13-SEER Heat Pump with electric backup furnace including a two stage fan   
• Programmable thermostats
• Electric hot water heater   
• Electric fireplaces
• Energy efficient appliances

Future plans include:

·        Certification as an Energy Star Builder

·        NAHBA green builder certification

·        Development of a comprehensive material recycling program

Our commitment to our environment and community will always be a priority for us at Robinson Building Corp.

Terry Robinson, President

            I recently became a member of the Congressional Caucus on Human Trafficking after meeting with a group of students from the McPherson Church of the Brethren who were concerned about victims of modern-day slavery. The U.S. Department of State estimates that about 800,000 people are trafficked across borders each year, with even more people trafficked within countries. Most of these victims are women and children. The Congressional Caucus on Human Trafficking works to raise awareness about the issue and advance legislation to end this human rights violation.

PROUD TO BE A WESTAR ENERGY SAVER BUILDER

ABOUT US

Robinson Building Corp. is a Kansas Corporation established in December of 1995 and specializes in commercial and residential construction. Terry Robinson, president and founder, has worked in the construction industry for over thirty years in Topeka and the surrounding areas. He presently holds licenses in Johnson County, Topeka and Manhattan, Kansas.  Terry presently serves on the board of directors of the Topeka Home Builders Association and is a member of the National Home Builder Association and the International Code Council.

Robinson Building Corp. is a builder of fine single family homes in the Topeka and Manhattan area. We also specialize in interior commercial remodeling projects for office and retail clients. Past and current clients include Hills Pet Nutrition, Maximus, and Ferguson Enterprises. Past and current regional clients include Papa John’s franchises, Associated Commercial Brokers, Berlin Wheeler and The Kansas Corporation Commission.

Quality craftsmanship and attention to detail by our staff and sub contractors is the emphasis of every project and we are fully insured and licensed for your protection and peace of mind.

    OUR ENERGY POLICY

We believe the best way to help the environment is to conserve the energy and materials we already have. Robinson Building’s commitment to protecting the environment and reducing the carbon footprint of each home has led us to use the following materials and products:

• Energy efficient vinyl casement windows with Low-E glass
• R-13 Ultra-Fit, pressure applied fiberglass insulation
• R-38 blown in attic insulation
• Wind barrier house wrap
• 13-SEER Heat Pump with electric backup furnace including a two stage fan   
• Programmable thermostats
• Electric hot water heater   
• Electric fireplaces
• Energy efficient appliances

Future plans include:

·        Certification as an Energy Star Builder

·        NAHBA green builder certification

·        Development of a comprehensive material recycling program

Our commitment to our environment and community will always be a priority for us at Robinson Building Corp.                               Terry Robinson, President

 www.robinsonbuildingcorp.com/

WASHINGTON, December 02, 2008

For the second year in a row, Realtors^® report that exterior remodeling projects return the most money as a percentage of cost, as detailed in the 2008 Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report.

On a national level, wood deck additions and all types of siding replacements – upscale fiber cement, midrange vinyl, and upscale foam-backed vinyl – returned more than 80 percent of project costs upon resale. Of these, the most profitable project was upscale fiber cement siding, which recouped 86.7 percent of costs, followed by wood decks at 81.8 percent, midrange vinyl siding at 80.7 percent, and upscale foam-backed vinyl siding at 80.4 percent.

“Because today’s buyers have much more to choose from in the way of inventory, any home for sale must make a positive first impression,” said National Association of Realtors^® President Charles McMillan, a broker with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Dallas-Fort Worth. “As a trusted source for real estate information, Realtors^® understand what attracts and motivates their buyer clients, which is why the results of this year’s Cost vs. Value report underscore the importance of curb appeal in the buyer’s eye.”

The 2008 Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report compares construction costs with resale values for 30 midrange and upscale remodeling projects comprising additions, remodels and replacements in 79 markets across the country, expanding from 60 markets last year. Data are grouped into nine U.S. regions, following the divisions established by the U.S. Census Bureau. This is the 11th consecutive year that the report, which is produced by Hanley Wood, LLC, was completed in cooperation with REALTOR Magazine, as Realtors^® provided their insight into local markets and buyer home preferences within those markets.

In addition to wood decks and siding, window replacements and kitchen remodels also returned a relatively high percentage of remodeling costs on a national basis. All types of window replacements – upscale and midrange wood and upscale and midscale vinyl – returned more than 76 percent of costs. A major midrange kitchen remodel returned 76.0 percent of project costs, while a minor midrange kitchen remodel returned 79.5 percent of costs.

On a national level, bathroom remodels, while still a relatively good investment, do not return as high a percentage as in previous years. A midrange bathroom remodel was estimated to return 74.4 percent on resale, comparable to a midrange attic-to-bedroom conversion, at 73.6 percent of costs recouped, and a midrange basement remodel, at 72.7 percent of costs recouped.

As in last year’s report, the least profitable remodeling projects in terms of resale value were home office remodels, sunroom additions, and back-up power generators, returning only 54.4 percent, 56.6 percent, and 57.1 percent, respectively, of project costs.

Although most regions followed national trends, the regions that consistently were estimated to return a higher percentage of remodeling costs upon resale were the Pacific region of Alaska, California, Hawaii, Oregon and Washington; the West South Central region of Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas; the East South Central region of Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi and Tennessee; and the South Atlantic region of the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia and West Virginia.

The regions that generally returned the lowest percentage of costs were New England (Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont), East North Central (Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and Wisconsin), West North Central (Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota), and Middle Atlantic (New York and Pennsylvania).

McMillan explained that the resale value of any given remodeling project depends on a variety of factors. “A home’s overall condition, availability and condition of surrounding properties, location, and regional economic climate are all factors that will influence the value of any remodeling project,” he said. “That’s why it’s important to consult with professionals like Realtors^® in your area when you want to enhance the value of your home. Realtors^® see hundreds, if not thousands, of homes every year with their buyer clients and can provide valuable insight into what projects and improvements will make a difference with buyers in your area.”

Results of the report are summarized in the December 2008 issue of REALTOR^® Magazine. The issue also includes examples of actual remodeling projects that were less expensive than many of the report’s cost estimates. Full project descriptions, as well as national, regional and local project data for the 79 cities covered by the report will be posted at www.costvsvalue.com by December 5. “Cost vs. Value” is a registered trademark of Hanley Wood, LLC.

Hanley Wood, LLC, is the premier media company serving housing and construction. Through four operating divisions, the company produces award-winning magazines and Web sites, marquee trade shows and events, rich data, and custom marketing solutions. The company also is North America’s leading provider of home plans. Founded in 1976, Hanley Wood is a $240 million company owned by JPMorgan Partners, LLC, a private equity affiliate of JPMorgan Chase & Co.

Thanks.com

Living close to Ft. Riley with all the rotating deployments makes this especially close to home.

Blessings this Christmas Season,

Karen Westover

Outlook for the city is upbeat

Economic trends 'holding strong'

Kathryn Waller
kwaller@themercury.com

Citing a steady increase in sales tax revenue and property tax valuations over the past few years, city finance director Bernie Hayen said that he is "optimistic" about Manhattan's economic future.

Despite an announcement that the city may have to temporarily withhold $120,000 from the Riley County Police Department's allocation due to a rise in delinquent property taxes in 2008, Hayen said the small increase of delinquencies is not indicative of a poor local economy.  "I have no reason to believe that this portends serious trouble," Hayen said, adding that the main problem with the RCPD fund stemmed simply from the fact that no delinquency rate was factored into the 2008 budget.

"Clearly, if both of our main revenue sources (sales taxes and property taxes) showed a consistent decline for three or four months in a row, that would be worrisome," he said. But he added that the city "constantly monitors the economic trends" and the numbers seem to be holding strong. "I think we try to be real good stewards of where we let our finances go," he said.

Although Hayen admitted that there has been a steep rise in special assessment delinquencies in Manhattan during recently (up to nearly 5 percent in fiscal year 2008), the finance director said the issue lies in the personal financial problems of a few individuals only and is not reflective of the city's economic stability.  "We understand that the problem is with one or two developers, not with everyone," he said.

On a larger scale, Hayen said Manhattan's relationship to K-State and Fort Riley may help shield the city against the struggles of a failing global economy.  "Economists always say that communities who have a diverse economy — especially those near large universities and military bases — tend to be better insulated from times of economic severity. And we are fortunate to have both," Hayen explained. "It could very well be that we weather the storm better than most places."

However, even though Manhattan may be naturally positioned to withstand a slowing market, Hayen said that the prospect of a  financial shortfall is "always a concern." He said the city has a three-tiered plan to ensure financial stability during a recession or shortfall period.

The plan, which was devised a few years ago after the city was shorted nearly $1 million in state sales tax revenue, focuses on cutting travel expenses, lowering capital improvement spending and (if necessary) establishing a hiring freeze.  "During a time like that, you have to keep the tax burdens low," Hayen said. "You cut out all the frills and the fluff. If there are things that we can go without, then we will."

While global headlines portray a rather dismal picture of the long-term financial future, for now at least, Hayen said he has not seen an impact in Manhattan's numbers — something he believes is a good sign.  "I will really be interested to see if the sales figures from September and October mirror the national trends and go down," said Hayen of the sales reports that should be released shortly after Thanksgiving and Christmas respectively. "But so far, we've seen nothing that indicates a decline."

By Congressman Jerry Moran

November 10, 2008

www.jerrymoran.house.gov

Dear Friend,

            Welcome to “This Week in Congress.” Congress remains out of session, which allows me to travel extensively across our state and visit with many Kansans. This week, our country turned out to vote in a historic election. Thank you for participating in the elections and making your vote count. Now that the election is through, I am calling on all my colleagues, both those new and those returning to make an effort to end political gamesmanship and focus on going back to work for the good of the country. I hope you find this newsletter useful.

Honoring Veterans on Veterans Day

            Tomorrow, our county celebrates Veterans Day. In cities and towns across America, we dedicate this day to honoring veterans of all generations who have given so much and who continue to give on our behalf so that we may live in the greatest country in the world. If you have a veteran in your life - whether it is a family member, neighbor, or coworker - make sure to tell them thank you for their service to our country.

Touring Construction of Fort Riley State Veterans Cemetery in Junction City

            This week, I toured the progress of the construction of the Fort Riley State Veterans Cemetery, which began last fall. The VA provided an initial grant in November 2007 and a final grant in March 2008 to provide funding for the construction of the cemetery. The cemetery is located west of the Manhattan Regional Airport on 90 acres that were donated by Fort Riley. It includes space for approximately 10,000 burial sites. It will open next year and will serve as an honorable burial space for Kansas veterans.

            There are four state veterans cemetery in Kansas. These state-operated veterans cemeteries provide space for burial for those who have served a term of active duty and been honorably discharged from the military, reserves or National Guard, as well as their dependents.

            Thanks to Kafer Peele III, cemetery program director for Kansas Commission on Veterans’ Affairs (KCVA), for inviting me on the tour. I was joined on the tour by state House Representatives Sydney Carlin and Barbara Craft. Also on the tour were Lana Oleen; Kile Morrison; Ed Wiegers, KCVA Board Chairman; and Ken Kallenbach. Click here to view a photo from my visit.

Visiting VA Community-Based Outpatient Clinic in Salina

            It is important to make sure veterans have access to health care services in their communities. On Monday, I toured the VA Community-Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) in Salina. Opened in 2001, this CBOC allows veterans in north central Kansas to receive primary care services closer to home rather than having to drive to a VA hospital in Wichita or Topeka. CBOC’s play an important role in delivering quality VA health care in rural areas.

Visiting Kansas Communities

            I continued my efforts to remain informed about issues important to Kansans by visiting with folks in several Kansas communities this week. The conversations I have while I travel across our state give me direction in our nation’s capital.

            Luray: While in Luray this week, I spoke with area residents at Luray Grocery, the post office, UMB Bank and Midway Co-Op. I got an update from several farmers on the fall harvest and discussed the economy and the presidential election with others.

            Lucas: I stopped in Lucas on Monday and talked with community members at Lucas Motor Company, Brant’s Meat Market, Troy’s Grocery, Pony Express Community Bank, the post office, Leach & Naegele hardware store, the civic center and the Conoco service station. During my visit, I learned that Golden Living Center Nursing Home in Lucas closed in October. My staff has been in contact with Russell County Economic Development to learn more about the situation and offer support.

            Solomon: On Monday, I was in Solomon to visit with folks in Dickinson County. I spoke with members of the community at DS & O Rural Electric Co-op, Solomon State Bank, Solomon Corporation, Solomon Senior Center and the post office.

Speaking to Kansas Students

            Visiting Fort Hays Sate University: On Tuesday evening, I went to Forsyth Library at Fort Hays State University to visit with students about the national elections. More than 200 students who were affiliated with the American Democracy Project (ADP) were there to watch the national election results. During my visit, I thanked them for their interest in national issues and the voting process.

            Speaking to Ellis High School: On Tuesday, I visited John Kohl’s government classes at Ellis High School. I talked with students and listened to their comments and concerns on current political and government issues. I discussed the current state of the economy and the presidential election. I was very encouraged to see the students involved and interested in the political process.

            Delivering Agriculture Lecture at Kansas State University: On Friday, I made a surprise visit to Dr. Barry Flinchbaugh's Agriculture Policy class at Kansas State University. Dr. Flinchbaugh has taught Agriculture Policy at Kansas State for 38 years and influenced many Kansas farmers, agribusiness managers and political leaders. I spoke with students about my role as a member of Congress and my experiences serving on the House Agriculture Committee in Congress. I also discussed with the students what the recent election results mean for the future of agriculture.

Attending USD 475 School Board Meeting

            On Monday, I attended the USD 475 School Board meeting in Junction City to discuss the education priorities for the district. I visited with the board about the need to fully fund special education programs, the importance of Congress making reforms to No Child Left Behind and the unique challenges of educating students from a military base. I appreciate the leadership shown by school board members Russ Boland, Bob Henderson, Daphne Maxwell, Becky Bramlage, Dr. Anwar Koury, Mark Rosen, and Rep. LTC David Chase and by superintendent of schools, Dr. Ron Walker.

Visiting with the Kansas Farm Bureau in Manhattan

            On Friday evening, I joined nearly 800 members of the Kansas Farm Bureau (KFB) at their annual meeting in Manhattan. This year the group honored me with their “Friend of Farm Bureau” award. It has been an honor to work with the KFB. I will continue to work hard to represent Kansas producers so that we can provide the next generation of farmers an opportunity to experience the way of life we enjoy. Thanks to President of Kansas Farm Bureau Steve Baccus. Also in attendance was Congresswoman-elect Lynn Jenkins.

Attending Jayhawk Roundup

            On Saturday, I joined University of Kansas alumni and supporters in Wichita to raise money for Jayhawk Roundup Scholarships. These scholarships provide funds for KU students that include undergraduate students in Lawrence and a third-year medical student at the KU School of Medicine-Wichita. A special thank you to Dave and Janet Murfin for hosting the event and the KU Endowment Association for the invitation.

Touring Bombardier Learjet in Wichita

            On Wednesday I toured the Bombardier Learjet facility in Wichita to learn more about the facility. I serve on the House Transportation Subcommittee on Aviation, so it was interesting for me to learn that the site will take on assembly of the new Learjet 85 and expand production of the Learjet 60, which will produce hundreds of additional jobs in Wichita. The company will now have four aircrafts that will be either in design or production on the site. The Wichita facility currently employs approximately 2,700 people. Thanks to Stephanie Allen for setting up my visit. Also thanks to the vice president of Learjet, John Dieker and to vice president and general manager, David Coleal  for inviting me on the tour.

Attending the Welcome Reception for the 2008 BASS Federation National Championship

            On Monday, I spoke at the welcome reception for the 2008 BASS Federation National Championship in Junction City. The three-day event was held at Milford Lake on November 6 to the 8.  It featured the best amateur anglers from 47 states and six countries including Zimbabwe, Italy, Japan, South Africa, Canada and Mexico, as well as the Paralyzed Veterans of America.

            These individuals were competing for a spot to compete in the 2009 Bassmaster Classic that will be in Shreveport-Bossier City, Louisiana in February. It is a wonderful opportunity for our state to be able to host such an event and to highlight our state’s fishing and wildlife areas. Thank you to the organizers of the event for inviting me and to the members of the Junction City community for hosting the event. Also thanks to the executive director, Connie Hall and assistant director, Rick Dykstra, of the Geary County Convention and Visitors Bureau.

In the Office

            Several Kansans visited my office in Washington, D.C., this week to receive tours of the United States Capitol, including Julian and Norma Huser of Victoria, Mel and Darnell Holopirek of Great Bend and Dennis and Yvonne Schneider and their daughter Janell of Tribune.

Contact Me

            It is an honor to serve you in Washington, D.C. Please let me know how I can be of assistance. To send me an email, click here. You can also click here to contact me through one of my Kansas offices or my Washington, D.C., office.

Very truly yours,

Jerry

By Congressman Jerry Moran

October 27, 2008

www.jerrymoran.house.gov

Dear Friend,

            Welcome to “This Week in Congress.” Congress is out of session which has allowed me to travel extensively across Kansas this past week. I hope you find this newsletter useful.

Presenting Medals to WWII POW Boyd Fox

            I joined family and friends of World War II veteran Boyd Fox this week and along with the Plains Elementary students and faculty, we held a presentation honoring him for his service. Mr. Fox served our country in World War II and was a prisoner of war for five months after he and his crew were forced to bail out of their plane following a successful mission. Mr. Fox had never formally received the military medals recognizing his service and capture.

            My office was able to successfully track down the deserved medals, after being contacted by Mr. Fox’s daughter, Lana Miller.

            I joined Mr. Fox’s wife, Margaret, in presenting him with the Good Conduct Medal, the Air Medal, the European/African/Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, the WWII Victory Medal, the American Campaign Medal, the Prisoner of War Medal and an Honorable Service Lapel Button.

            I am proud of the service Mr. Fox gave to our country and was honored to have the opportunity to present him with his medals. The 5th grade class sang, “America,” to honor Mr. Fox and the local Daughters of the American Revolution presented him with a certificate. Thank you to Principal Kyle Griffiths for hosting the event and for making it a priority that Plains Elementary students learn the sacrifices of our military. Click here to view photos from the event.

By Congressman Jerry Moran

November 17, 2008

www.jerrymoran.house.gov

Dear Friend,

            Welcome to “This Week in Congress.” I will be returning to Washington, D.C. this week as Members of the House of Representatives have been called to reassemble for session. I hope you find this newsletter useful.

Veterans’ Travel Reimbursement Increases Today

            Veterans driving to and from Veterans Affairs (VA) medical facilities will see an increase in their mileage reimbursement rate effective Monday, November 17. The rate is increased from 28.5 cents to 41.5 cents per mile.

            I have worked on this issue since first coming to Congress to assist Kansas veterans who must often travel long distances to the nearest VA medical clinic or hospital. Especially for veterans in rural areas, today's high gas prices have made it difficult for them to afford the trip to the doctor. Last year, I offered a successful amendment that increased the mileage rate for the first time in more than 30 years. I was pleased that the VA spending bill Congress approved this year included this additional increase supporting our veterans.

NOVEMBER 15, 2008

Prayer Patrol State of the Union report:


As a member of the Prayer Patrol I wanted you to be informed about our current state of affairs.

First, I want to say thank you so much for joining with us in prayer and being part of this history changing effort.


-See this chart-

Second, I want to invite you to support Prayer Patrol financially so we can expand our effort.

Where are we today?
-Posted more than 20,000 prayers
-U.S. casualty rate dropping each month
-Oct 2008 NO U.S. Casualties in Baghdad!


We currently have almost 9000 members of the Patrol and less than 50 who support this effort monthly.

I know these are tough times for a lot of us, and I am not wanting to burden anyone, or to make anyone feel bad if they can't support the work. We are very happy to provide the BPP free to anyone who wants to be a part.

I simply want to invite you to participate in supporting us. If you believe in the value of the BPP and would like to see us expand it into other areas of the world, then please, do whatever God puts on your heart. You will find info on giving to this effort online at http://giving.prayercentral.net
or you can send your check to Prayercentral PO Box 64323 Virginia Beach, VA 23467

It's been over a year since we sent out this type of reminder, so if you're new to the BPP please know that we are not heavy on the fund raising.

Thank you very much.

What's Coming up?
What if we could take the success of the BPP and multiply it out?
-Prodigal Prayer Patrol
-Afghan PP
-Jerusalem PP
-Wash. D.C. PP
-Your Neighborhood PP
-Your Child's School PP
-Your Family PP
-Your Platoon PP
-Your Business PP
-Etc.

What if You could?
-Meet other intercessors online for encouragement and prayer?
-Find other intercessors who share your prayer burden?
-Share your revelation and mentor other intercessors?

We are working very hard on the Global Prayer Patrol which will provide these features and much more. Please be praying for this development. What has worked in Baghdad can work all over the world, and we can see God transform lives, families, communities, schools, etc.

For those who aren't aware, My wife and I are missionaries to North India, living in Delhi. We run this and other web sites in the Prayercentral.net family as a service to the Body of Christ worldwide. Your contribution is tax-deductible and will enable us to continue to serve others. Thank you very much.

Looking forward to Patrolling the World with you.
Wayne Dillard,
Baghdad Prayer Patrol
PS- I am still traveling, so please be patient if you send me a note, you may have to wait until I return to Delhi.

www.prayercentral.net/baghdad

The opportunity for an up-close look at the Kansas Flint Hills and the tallgrass prairie will come when Kansas State University's Konza Prairie Biological Station holds its biennial Visitors' Day, Saturday, Sept. 27.

The Konza Prairie Biological Station is a preeminent center for grassland research. The 8,600-acre native tallgrass prairie preserve is dedicated to a three-fold mission of long-term ecological research, education and prairie conservation.

For Visitors' Day, the Konza will open its gates from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., offering guided access to its restricted areas and giving everyone the opportunity to see the bison herd or hike the trail system. Visitors also will see live animal displays and research exhibits at the station headquarters, while learning about tallgrass prairie conservation and management. Konza Prairie researchers, docents and staff will provide information about research being conducted at the Konza, history of the site, Flint Hills geology, tallgrass prairie flora and fauna, and other natural history.

Other activities to be offered include driving tours of the bison enclosure, hay wagon rides, tours of the Hokanson homestead along Kings Creek and guided hikes. Special activities for youth will be at the Hulbert Education Center in the lower level of the ranch house.

"There's something for the whole family," said Valerie Wright, environmental educator for the Konza Prairie. "Kids can become a junior ecologist by completing some fun activities or collect grasshoppers for the hopper display."

The Friends of the Konza Prairie will be on hand to offer Konza Prairie T-shirts, hats, posters, mugs and other items for sale. The Nature Conservancy will host an information booth and offer book sales.

The Konza Prairie Biological Station is owned by The Nature Conservancy and K-State, and is operated as a field research station by the K-State Division of Biology. Konza Prairie is six miles south of Manhattan along McDowell Creek Road. To get to the station headquarters, take Konza Lane past the nature trail kiosk. The headquarters is located around the corner to the right.

While most of the Konza is closed to visitors the rest of the year, a six-mile series of nature trail loops is open to the public year round from dawn to dusk. For more information, contact Wright, at 785-587-0381 or konzaed@k-state.edu. More information on the Konza also is available online at http://www.k-state.edu/konza/keep/visit/visitors.htm

By Congressman Jerry Moran

July 21, 2008

www.jerrymoran.house.gov

Dear Friend,

             Welcome to “This Week in Congress.” I hope you find this newsletter useful.

Committee Approves Bill to Improve Access to Care for Rural Veterans

            This week, the House Committee on Veterans Affairs approved legislation I introduced last year to provide more health care options for veterans living in rural areas when Veterans Affairs (VA) care is not available nearby. Despite best efforts, the reality is that some veterans live in remote areas beyond the VA’s ability to construct medical facilities to care for them. These veterans are either forced to travel long distances for the care they need or forego care altogether. We need to expand the options available to them.

            The Rural Veterans Access to Care Act establishes a three year pilot program in several regions across the country to allow those veterans living furthest from VA health facilities to get care closer to home through a local physician or hospital. To qualify, a veteran must live at least 60 miles from a VA clinic, 120 miles from a VA hospital or 240 miles from a VA specialized care facility when seeking that care. Many Kansas veterans living in the central and western parts of our state will be part of this demonstration project. This legislation is particularly beneficial for elderly Kansas veterans who often have difficulty making the long trip to the VA and for members of the Kansas Guard and Reserve who often live in rural parts of our state. This legislation now goes to the full House of Representatives for consideration.

Congress Overrides President’s Veto to Delay Physician Cuts

            Congress prevented scheduled reductions in Medicare payments this week by voting to override the President’s veto of the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act. This legislation will delay cuts in Medicare payments for 18 months and includes important provisions that require community pharmacists to be reimbursed in a timely manner. Among other things, the bill also delays the implementation of the Average Manufacturing Price payment system, which would reimburse pharmacists for less than what it costs to fill Medicaid prescriptions. I voted for this legislation in June and voted for it again this week. Had this bill not become law, Kansans would have suffered and many would have been unable to get the care and medicine they need. Click here to view my remarks on the House floor.

Working to Provide Additional Feed Options for Kansas Ranchers

            I introduced legislation this week to override the recent court order that halted Critical Feed Use of Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) acres authorized by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The court order removed a needed feed option and has caused frustration for Kansas producers.

            On May 27, USDA announced more than 24 million acres of CRP land were eligible for Critical Feed Use to help alleviate the high price of livestock feed. This decision was welcomed by ranchers and many immediately began making stocking decisions. These producers expended time and money to fence and prepare CRP acres for grazing and haying. More than a month after ranchers began taking these steps, a judge issued a temporary restraining order stopping all Critical Feed Use activity.

            The order to stop Critical Feed Use has severely impacted Kansas livestock producers. During this time of high feed prices, ranchers do not need one more thing to worry about. As a member of the House Agriculture Committee, I will continue working with USDA officials and Members of Congress to resolve this issue.

Recognizing Special Olympics for 40 Years of Empowering Individuals

            I recognized Special Olympics this week in the House of Representatives on the occasion of its 40th anniversary. Since 1968, Special Olympics has empowered individuals with disabilities and given them confidence to face challenges in their daily lives. Special Olympics is a worldwide organization that provides sports training and athletic competition to more than 2.5 million people with intellectual disabilities. Through Special Olympics, athletes develop improved physical fitness and motor skills, greater self confidence and a more positive self image.

            Since 2007, I have served as the Honorary Chairman for the Kansas Law Enforcement Torch Run. Kansas Law Enforcement officers cover hundreds of miles in the Torch Run throughout the state each year and raise thousands of dollars in support of Special Olympics Kansas programs. Last month, I joined Special Olympics Kansas athletes, fans, volunteers and families in Wichita for the opening ceremony of the 2008 Summer Games. Click here to read my speech and click here to view photos from the opening ceremony of the 2008 Summer Games in Wichita.

Learning about Progress of Trade Talks

            I met with United States Trade Representative Susan Schwab this week to discuss the progress of the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) Doha Round of Trade Negotiations. The Doha Round is in its seventh year of negotiations. As our country’s chief trade negotiator, Ambassador Schwab is working to create new export opportunities for American agriculture, manufactured goods and services. Officials will meet over the course of the next several days in Switzerland to continue negotiations.

Agriculture Subcommittee Reviews Food Aid Delivery and Development Assistance

            This week, I joined the House Agriculture Subcommittee on Specialty Crops, Rural Development and Foreign Agriculture to review food aid and agricultural development programs. The recent increased attention on agriculture, food prices and feeding the hungry has opened the door for discussions about making sure investments by the United States go to proven development tools. For too long our country has been trying to put band aids on the world’s problems with repeated food assistance. It is time we take a long-term look at the cause of food insecurity in places such as Sub-Saharan Africa where crop yields are only 40 percent of that of the rest of the world’s developing countries. While emergency food aid is important in response to disasters, food aid itself never cures the underlying problems facing developing countries.

Visiting Kansas Communities

            Hoisington: I was in Hoisington this week to meet with community business leaders and Chamber of Commerce Director Stacey Bressler. I visited the new offices for USD 431, Clara Barton Hospital and Superior Essex, a company that designs and manufactures wire and cable products, with Stacey and Chamber Board of Directors President Karen Van Brimmer. Thanks to Board of Education Clerk Bonnie Smith, School Board President Don Reif and School Board Vice President Dean Stoskopf for the tour of the school district’s new office. I also enjoyed visiting with Hospital Administrator Chuck Waters and Superior Essex Plant Manager Brent Rensch and Jennifer Lagerman. At Superior Essex, we talked about how high gas prices are making it difficult to attract workers from other communities.

            Hays: On Friday evening, I stopped by the Ellis County Fair in Hays to view exhibits and visit with folks from the area. I enjoy this time of year and visiting county fairs throughout the state to see the various projects and entries of both young and old alike. County fairs bring families together and are a great way to highlight our Kansas communities.

            Trego: On Saturday morning, I participated in the Trego County Fair parade in WaKeeneey. The fair began July 16 and goes through Thursday. I enjoyed visiting with many Kansans that were out for the fair activities. Thanks to Vic Kinderknecht for driving me in the parade.

Mourning the Loss of Danny Biggs of Great Bend

            On Friday, I attended the funeral service for Danny Biggs of Great Bend. Danny was involved in the oil and gas industry and was a pillar of the Great Bend community. He was a dear friend to me and many others who had the privilege of knowing and working with him. I will miss his friendship and know he will be greatly missed by his friends and family and the community he loved so much. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Darlene, and the rest of their family.

In the Office

            Brenda Morgan of Concordia was in with FFA to talk about how knowledge of agriculture leads to a well-rounded education. Gary Du and Jiang Hu of Overland Park, Linda Wang of Lenexa and Melody Griffin of Olathe were in to tell me about human rights abuses and the mistreatment of Falun Gong members. Vic and Kay Streufert of Lindsborg were in with DC RESULTS to discuss how lowering the earned income tax credit could benefit many low income families.

            Karl Weissenbach of Abilene was in with the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum to provide an update on the proposed Eisenhower Memorial in Washington, D.C. Ernie Kutzley and Bob Harvey of Topeka were in with AARP to discuss the importance of passing legislation to improve the Medicare program and maintain access to physicians. Barbara Williams of Olathe was in with the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards to discuss the certification process and the impact it has on the quality of teaching and learning for students.

            Jay Allbaugh and Kimberly Edmunds of Wichita were in with Cox Communications to tell me about the cable industry’s efforts to inform Kansans of the digital television transition. Bob Henry of Robinson, Lance Rezac of Onaga, Craig Gistad of Winchester and Dennis Hupe of Perry were in with the Kansas Soybean Association to discuss their legislative priorities. Dr. Dan Sweeney of Parsons and Dr. Gary Pierzynski of Manhattan were in with the Soil Society of America to talk about the importance of continued funding and support for soil science research in Kansas and across the nation.

            Ken McCauley of White Cloud, Brian Baalman of Menlo, Greg and Angela Stone of Garden City, Bob Timmons of Fredonia, Charles Foltz and Jere White of Garnett, Sue Schulte of Princeton, Shainya Timmons of Fredonia and Karly Schulte of Ottawa were in with the National Corn Growers Association to discuss implementation of the farm bill and the Renewable Fuel Standard. Stan Stark of Haviland was in with Land O’Lakes to talk about the cooperative’s presence in Kansas, implementation of the farm bill and potential changes to the Clean Water Act.

            Several Kansans were in to take a tour of the U.S. Capitol building this week, including Merlene Baird of Larned, Paul Popelka of Munden, and Ed and Marjory Johnson of Hutchinson. Also in for a tour were Daniel, Gina, Lee and Emily Janes of Hannibal; James, Darci, James, Lake and Brett Lyman of Ellinwood; Jude, Heather, Katia and Micah Matter of Jewell; Patrick, Pat and Katy Colloton of Leawood; and Pat, David, Kimberly and Christopher Cummings of Meade. In from Hays were Doug, Kim, Abby and Mark Schneweis and Todd, Alicia, Zachary, Madeleine and Ethan Brungardt.

Contact Me

            It is an honor to serve you in Washington, D.C. Please let me know how I can be of assistance. To send me an email, click here. You can also click here to contact me through one of my Kansas offices or my Washington, D.C., office.

Very truly yours,

Jerry

Now the President has granted Disaster Relief. See the notes below from our representative.

 This Week in Congress

 By Representative Jerry Moran

            After upholding Boeing’s protest last week of the Air Force’s decision to award the aerial refueling tanker contract to Northrop Grumman and Europe’s EADS, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) said Wednesday that Boeing would have likely won the bid had significant errors not been made. The findings of the GAO report are disturbing. It is critical the Air Force start this competition over and work to make it right.

            Together with other Members of Congress, I asked the Air Force Acting Secretary to take into account all of the GAO findings and re-open a fair competition in a manner that corrects the significant errors identified by the GAO. According to the GAO report, the Air Force failed to judge the competitive bids based on the Air Force’s own evaluation criteria, made significant mistakes in considering the life cycle costs of each of the two aircraft and “conducted misleading and unequal discussions with Boeing.” I also joined Congressman Todd Tiahrt this week in introducing legislation that directs the Department of Defense to begin a new competition on the tanker contract if the Air Force fails to award the contract to Boeing. The legislation calls on the Department of Defense to take into account national security, industrial base concerns and foreign subsidies in the new competition.

            Click here to view my remarks after the GAO upheld Boeing’s protest.