It’s been a busy few weeks in Kansas and Washington. I’m pleased to fill you in on what I’ve been working on and what it means for Kansans.

Well-wishes to Kansans

We’re grateful this past weekend’s storms didn’t take any lives in our state, but my thoughts and prayers go out to all those who were affected in Kansas and the many surrounding states. As state and local officials work diligently to assess property damage, I stand ready to assist Governor Brownback, Adjutant General Lee Tafanelli and local emergency management officials. Up to date Emergency response information and contacts can be found on my website here.

Kansas Agriculture in the Spotlight

Last week, Franki and I had the pleasure to host U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack in Manhattan where we discussed a number of issues important to Kansas farmers and ranchers. We had a great day at Kansas State University, along with Rep. Lynn Jenkins and Kansas State Pres. Kirk Schulz.

The day started with a breakfast with future ag leaders, followed by Secretary Vilsack’s Landon Lecture, a tour of the Biosecurity Research Institute at Kansas State, and finally a celebration of the 150th Anniversary of USDA. The agriculture industry has a lot to be proud of in Kansas, and it was no surprise that Secretary Vilsack was impressed with what he saw. I applaud his efforts to encourage and cultivate the next generation of leaders in agriculture. We have no shortage of such leadership in our state.

Aviation Capital of the World

In addition to agriculture, I am focused on another key sector of our Kansas economy – general aviation. The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) hosted a roundtable meeting in Wichita with its members to discuss industry issues. As a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, which has jurisdiction over many issues critical to GA, I promise to continue the fight for policies that will enhance production and job creation. I am plain tired of hearing the Obama Administration decry the industry as only for “corporate fat cats.” GA helps businesses – big and small -- grow and prosper; farmers and ranchers rely on GA to get their work done. Ninety percent of the nation’s airports do not offer commercial flights – it’s general aviation that allows great access to markets, both here and abroad.

Following the roundtable discussion, I was honored to address a packed house at the Wichita Aero Club. For more information, the Wichita Business Journal gave a good recap of the day’s events here.

Fracking in Kansas

Recently, I visited rural Barber County to get a first-hand look at horizontal oil drilling and hydraulic fracturing, otherwise known as fracking. Many farmers and ranchers are working the surface of the land, while leasing oil and gas-rich areas beneath the surface to oil and gas producers. This industry has tremendous potential for our state and especially for our rural communities, bringing with it the potential to create tens of thousands of jobs, not just on the rigs, but all along Main Street. The Hutchinson News has more information on the tour here.

Meeting with Kansans

I had the privilege of meeting with Kansans from all across the state over the last few weeks at various town hall meetings. I held a town hall meeting for General Electric employees at Strother Field in Winfield, as well as made stops in Greenwood County at the Eureka Public Library, and the in Lyon County at Emporia State University. President Michael Shonrock was a gracious host. It’s important to hear people’s concerns and personal experiences. I often take the stories I hear from you back to the Senate and share it with my colleagues in committees, on the Senate floor and with leaders in the Administration. Topping the list of concerns on this tour: taxes, health care and over-regulation by the federal government. Thanks to all those who came to share thoughts and ideas. I need partners in good government. I hope you will always feel free to contact me – via any of the sites listed below.

You can click here for more pictures from activities around the state.

Check Senator Roberts’ Website, YouTube and Facebook Sites for Updates

You can visit my YouTube site for more information on what’s happening in Washington, D.C. and Kansas by visiting www.youtube.com/SenPatRoberts. It's a great place to find speeches and debates on the Senate floor, press conferences, interviews and Senate hearings. You can also stay updated on all these happenings on my Facebook and Twitter sites.

If you wish to contact me about an issue or want more information, please visit my website, roberts.senate.gov.