“There’s no greater challenge and there is no greater honor than to be in public service.” - Condoleezza Rice This week should be the last week of the Legislative Session for this year. We have been working on the proposed budget for most of the year and we have an agreement with all parties. The…

“If you want to go fast - go alone. If you want to go far - go together.” - Paul Degges who is retiring after 35 years as chief engineer at TDOT We are working hard to close our House Committees and are optimistic that we can close this year’s Legislative Session soon. I have…

“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” - 1 Peter 3:15  This past week has been a very somber time at the General Assembly and for…

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he saves those whose spirits are crushed.” – Psalm 34:18  The big event this week was Lincoln County Hamburger Day on the Hill. This was the 35th anniversary of Hamburger Day on the Hill and it was as popular as ever. The Lincoln County Livestock association cooked over…

“To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.” - Proverbs 21:3 I had a great meeting with the 4-H clubs of district 62 this past week. Thank you to Alex Sparks of Moore County, Dan Owen of Lincoln County, and Emily Osterhaus of Bedford County for stopping by my office…

“It is the supreme art of a teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge.” - Albert Einstein We had another really busy week at the Legislature with 497 bills scheduled for hearings. Last week, 68% of the bills were passed or taken off notice throughout the full committees. I passed one bill on…

“Today a reader, tomorrow a leader.” – Margaret Fuller I was honored and excited to read to the Thomas School 1st graders this past Monday. My granddaughter, Anna Marsh, invited me and it was great fun to meet with the students and read to them and tell them about the importance of reading throughout their…