Congresswoman Vickie Hartzler of Missouri’s 4^th Congressional District visited the Darr Agricultural Center Friday, March 30^th.  Over 35 faculty, staff, special guests and students greeted the Congresswoman Friday afternoon.  Among the special guests in attendance were Mr. Bill and Mrs. Darr after whom the Center is named.

After touring the state-of-the-art Christopher S. Bond Learning Center, the Congresswoman shared her comments with the gathered students.  Congresswoman Hartzler shared humorous stories from her past growing up on a farm in Archie, Mo.  She currently farms in Cass County with her husband Lowell.  She represents one of the four house members still directly connected to a working farm.  It is no doubt fitting then that she serves on the House Agricultural Committee. 

The Congresswoman took a few moments to share with students some issues that will likely come before the House during the next legislative session, including the renewal of the Farm Bill.  She noted how she is always impressed by the farming community.  In a time when Federal spending cuts are imminent, those she has spoken with do not ask to be spared cuts all together, but rather accept that spending cuts will be made and are willing to do their part to decrease the National Debt.  However, these individuals are hopeful that not all of the spending cuts will come from farm programs.  The Congresswoman vowed that while spending cuts would occur, the farming community would not be disproportionally hurt.