KANSAS CITY TAKES CENTER STAGE AS WORLD WAR I CENTENNIAL COMMISSION IS SWORN IN The eyes of the country focused on Kansas City this week, as the Commissioners of the newly formed World War I Centennial Commission took their oath of office. Former Congressman Ike Skelton (appointed to the Commission by President Obama) was elected Chair of the Centennial Commission. Retired Colonel Robert Dalessandro was elected Vice Chair.
The establishment of this commission was truly a labor of love for me. This is an effort I have spearheaded since first entering Congress in 2005. And seeing it come to fruition was a dream come true. But, as they say, the best laid plans…
I actually did not get to see the swearing in ceremony, or attend the first meeting. Thunderstorms in Washington resulted in a cancellation of my flight. So, as I paced the corridors of the airport in DC, staffers kept me updated on the progress of the meeting. | Commissioners of the World War I Centennial Commission gather for the Inaugural meeting at Kansas City's World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial |
I introduced legislation to establish the WWI Centennial Commission because it was important to the constituents of Missouri's Fifth District, and to me, that our country properly observe the anniversary of WWI. The bi-partisan legislation was passed and signed into law by the President earlier this year. But getting to this point was no easy task. Working with Congressman Ted Poe (R-TX), who was also unable to attend because of the flight cancellation, was a rewarding experience. And I know he, as well as the hundreds of others who worked so hard on this legislation, are proud to see this moment come.
Following the swearing in ceremony, the Commissioners officially began the first meeting. I look forward to many great accomplishments from this group, and can't think of a more appropriate place than the WWI Museum at Liberty Memorial, for this great beginning.
If you'd like to see the complete list of Commissioners please visit: /
CONGRESSMAN CLEAVER HOLDS A SECOND
TOWN HALL ON SYRIA
The question of what the United States should do in Syria is one that remains at the forefront. As you know, last week I held a town hall in Kansas City, so I could listen to constituents on this issue. It was a standing room only crowd, and following the town hall, so many people reached out to my office asking to be heard on this issue, I held another one. This one was a telephone town hall, as I was needed back in Washington to begin participation in briefings on this situation. We called almost 40,000 constituents of Missouri's Fifth District, and simply asked if they wanted to express thoughts, concerns, and opinions on possible military action in Syria, following the worst chemical weapons attack of the 21st century. On August 21st more than 1,400 hundred people died there, due to what the experts say was a sarin gas attack.
During the telephone town hall there were many thoughts conveyed. Approximately 90% of those participating in the call told me they were opposed to military action in Syria on the part of the United States.
It remains a very fluid situation and I am hopeful current diplomatic actions underway will be successful. As your Representative, I want to let you know that I remain a no vote at this point. I have now had the opportunity to participate in several briefings, including one where the President spoke to us. I understand the complexity of the situation and am eager to continue listening and learning. But if I had to vote on this issue today – my vote on military action in Syria would be a no.
I appreciate all of you who have shared your thoughts with me. And I hope you continue to do so.
CONGRESSMAN CLEAVER VISITS CONCORDIA | Congressman Cleaver at the opening ceremony of the
Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall in Concordia |
This year our nation stood together and marked the 12th anniversary of September 11th, 2001. It is a day that changed us, personally, and as a country, forever. Each time our country faces an enemy, at home or abroad, it is a time to remember that we are Americans. And, despite our differences, together we will always stand.
It was a very moving experience recently, as I joined constituents in Concordia for the opening ceremony of the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall. Watching the honor guard from Whiteman Air Force Base was both solemn and emotional.
It is moments like that one, I take with me, and remember each day, while trying to do my best for all in Missouri's Fifth District.
CONGRESSMAN CLEAVER GETS AN EARFUL
As a Member of Congress, I often get an earful. And as you know, even if it isn't easy to hear, I always appreciate the opportunity to listen to constituents. As I took my seat at the Mid-Continent Public Library in Independence recently to read to a group of darling children, I got an earful of a different kind. I got to hear about the latest fashions. Boots are, I am told, very in right now. And pink, oh my goodness, we ALL know pink is ALWAYS in!
It was a pleasure to read to the youngsters. It is truly one of my favorite activities. Seeing those darling young faces, so full of hope and curiosity, refreshes the soul. | Congressman Cleaver gets a close look as a youngster shows him her boots during a visit to the Mid-Continent Public Library in Independence |
CIVILITY CORNER
After the close of our Sunday service, a few years ago, I was standing at the exit where I shook hands with parishioners. A young man, who I had known most of his life, walked very close to my ear and whispered, "Rev, my wife and I are having some issues and we may need to get an appointment to meet with you." "Sure," I said, "Has something happened?"
"Well, Rev, it all started last Saturday night when I was hanging out with my college roommate who I hadn't seen in years. We got to drinking and laughing and I forgot about the time. I arrived at our home at about 5:00 am and my wife became uncontrollably historical." "You mean hysterical, don't you?" I asked. "No Rev, I mean historical. She brought up everything wrong I have ever done throughout the history of our marriage," he sheepishly said.
Actually, I hear a lot about history around the Capitol. Over the years, I have heard, in great detail, the history of who did what, when, and who was in the majority when it was done. When I ask why certain things are being said and done when everyone knows it will irritate the other side, whether I'm talking to a Republican or Democrat, the response is usually historical. "They did it to us…" My question is probably naïve but still deserves an answer: So, when does it end?
I have concluded that illustrious and inspiring politics will foster the development of important legislation if we leave out history. Bi-partisan progress rather than invidious governing is the best political revenge. 
Emanuel Cleaver, II
Member of Congress
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