BURDETT – Senator Jerry Moran met with Burdett Senior Inc. and guests for lunch and discussion Monday afternoon at Burdett Senior Inc. The former congressman was on his annual Listening Tour.
Moran began the discussion with an introduction then began taking questions from interested citizens. He answered concerns on federal government influence on education, health care and small business as well as the functions of government as far as Social Security and unemployment benefits. Some guests of the event included Mayor Robert Pivonka of Larned, and Commissioner-elect of Pawnee County, John Haas.
The former Congressman uses the tour to guide his focus and work he does in Washington, D.C. “Reality of it is, if we change the world, we do it in our own communities.” This is his 15th tour but his first year to go to all 105 counties. Pawnee County is the 22nd.
“As of noon, he became senator and for him to spent that with us was really wonderful, ” said Karen Shadel, event coordinator.
Anne Granner, of Larned, said, “He was very informative and it is always good to see Jerry because he can answer our questions. Every time he comes around I make it a point to see him. He is very good about visiting.”
“I have known Jerry for a long time and I know he will take care of us in Washington, D.C.,” said William D. Fairchild, of Larned. “I was concerned about senior citizens’ cost of living increase for Social Security.”
Tom Giessel, of Larned, said, “I like to hear what he has to say, as well as what my neighbors’ concerns. I like that he came to his rural roots and spent his first seconds in office with his friends and neighbors rather than at a high dollar pot luck.”
In closing, Sen. Moran said, “I am not out to get power, but to give it back.”