- Week of Nov. 20, 2023

Happy Thanksgiving week, neighbors! Our community is absolutely magical this time of year. When the traditional Plaza Lighting Ceremony officially kicks off the season on Thanksgiving evening, the entire metropolitan area iluminates with the spirit of giving and gratitude. As you gather with friends and family and feast on turkey and pumpkin pie, try to stay mindful of the many blessings that abound in your life.

Besides my family and faith, my most treasured blessing is advocating for our community in the Missouri Senate and helping to secure funding for needed infrastructure projects. In addition to widening Interstate 70 to three lanes, the budget for Fiscal Year ’24 allocates $37 million to renovate Port KC and construct a second port in northern Jackson County, the Missouri River Terminal. I’m excited for this project to come to fruition and know these ports will benefit our community for generations.

City, local and statewide leaders gather at the new site of The Missouri River Terminal.

We are East! We are State Champions!

Congratulations are in order to the coaches and athletes of the East High School boys soccer team for winning the 2023 Class 3 Boys Soccer State Championship. The entire Kansas City community celebrates your success and salutes your hard work this season.

Members of the East High School boys soccer team show their state championship trophy to the cheering audience.

I also feel blessed to share information about upcoming community events, especially those that benefit vulnerable people and children and showcase the generosity of our community. Please share these flyers on your social media channels to help spread some holiday cheer!

It is an honor representing the great people of Kansas City’s 9th Senatorial District. If you need assistance navigating state government or understanding the legislative process, please contact me by calling 573-751-3158 or emailing Barbara.Washington@senate.mo.gov. My team is here for you!