Upon taking office last year, Missouri State Rep. Jeff Grisamore went to work for the vulnerable. The first bill he sponsored would have expanded the number of families eligible to receive child-care assistance.
Grisamore, a Lee's Summit Republican, didn't let party politics stand in the way of what he likes to call "responsible compassion." More than half of the bill's 56 co-sponsors were Democrats.
The bill died in committee, but Grisamore has continued to work on behalf of people who face adversity. Five of the 10 bills he has sponsored in this session concern the disabled.
Grisamore says the disabled and the mentally ill should receive the first portions of the state budget. "Instead, they end up having to fight for crumbs off the table," he tells me.
It's about 6 p.m., and Grisamore is sitting in a chair in his office at the Capitol, a Diet Coke within reach. The House has broken for dinner. With a long list of bills on the docket, Grisamore expects the workday to last until midnight.
This is a busy time for state lawmakers. In addition to their legislative duties, there's an election to consider. Grisamore recently sent out an "urgent message" asking for campaign contributions.
"Fighting for individuals with disabilities — especially children — and their families is my highest priority," the e-mail began.
Grisamore then connected his request for money to the death of his daughter.
"This passion is driven by our 7th child, Rebekah, who died November 26th, 2002 from complications of Prader-Willi Syndrome at 11 months and 18 days." A picture of Rebekah appears at the top of the e-mail, along with Grisamore's head shot.
Prader-Willi syndrome is a genetic disorder characterized by obesity and decreased mental capacity and muscle tone. At birth, children who suffer from the condition appear small and floppy. An intense desire for food develops later, leading to excessive weight gain and associated health problems.
Rebekah suffocated after her body failed to digest a bottle of milk. Grisamore and his wife, Mary, arranged for her organs and tissue to be used for research. A feature story last month in The Kansas City Star explained that she was the only infant with Prader-Willi available for study.
Grisamore tells me that Rebekah's life and death inform a lot of what he tries to do in Jefferson City. A Bible-school graduate who is active in mission and nonprofit work, Grisamore says he wants to be an "advocate for the elderly," "a champion for children" and a "defender of the disabled." Grisamore says his daughter's plight "took [his] empathy and commitment for families with special needs to a whole new level."
Grisamore's commitment is admirable on its face. But at what point does his talking about his daughter become exploitive?
Last November, Grisamore wrote an "As I See It" piece for the Star stressing the importance of organ donation. The column began with a description of the Grisamore family weeping, praying and launching balloons at Rebekah's grave site.
The recent feature story about Rebekah's gift to science closed with Grisamore talking about organ-donation legislation he's trying to pass.
And then comes the fundraising letter.
"To continue my fight for the disabled and their families, I need to raise significant funds for my re-election this year," Grisamore writes.
Encouraging people to donate their organs is one thing. Using Rebekah's story to hustle for campaign cash seems to be quite another.
Grisamore tells me that he sent the message to four people who work with and on behalf of those with special needs. But with a boldface request that readers forward it, the e-mail was obviously intended for a wider audience.
He says he's trying to appeal to a base of the disabled and their families. What others might find crass he describes as an effort to build grass-roots support. "The reality of politics is that in order to be re-elected, you've got to raise money," he says.
A suburban evangelical and father of eight, Grisamore can surprise you. His coherent rejoinders to criticism on left-leaning blogs suggest a brand-name law degree, not matriculation at Trinity International University, a divinity school in Deerfield, Illinois. (Last fall, lawyer and Democrat Steve Bough lauded Grisamore for responding “thoughtfully, intelligently and professionally” to a post on Blog CCP that took Grisamore to task on a variety of issues, including his pay as a nonprofit executive.) Grisamore's gelled hair and five o'clock shadow bring to mind a raffish lobbyist more than a churchgoing Republican.
And unlike many conservatives, Grisamore believes that government can accomplish things.
He talks about a constitutional amendment to mandate spending for those with disabilities and special needs. "I'm here to create a revolution for these folks," he says.
But one advocate for autism awareness regards Grisamore with the mistrust that nonbelievers hold for televangelists.
Sherri Tucker, co-founder of the Lee’s Summit Autism Support Group, says Grisamore has refused to meet with her group unless the event is held in public and he takes credit for work that her group is doing.
"Everything he does is to further his political career," she says.
Tucker says she's also put off by the frequency with which Grisamore talks about Rebekah. She says he mentioned Rebekah at a rally for disability rights in Jefferson City last month.
Grisamore says he hopes that his family's experience can be an inspiration to others.
Grisamore tells me that he regrets having offended anyone with the letter. But given the chance to second-guess his decision to include Rebekah's story in a solicitation for donations, Grisamore says he would not have done anything differently.
"Rebekah is very much a part of all this," he tells me.
Still, Grisamore might be wise to consider the hell that some right-wing commentators have unleashed on other public figures who have lost children. Ann Coulter once suggested that because John Edwards spoke about his son Wade so much, he needed an "Ask me about my son's death in a horrific car accident" bumper sticker. Glenn Beck called grieving Iraq War mother Cindy Sheehan a "tragedy pimp."
These attack artists might not be the most mainstream Republicans. But they've undoubtedly helped members of Grisamore's party dominate many statehouses — where, collectively, they've made life tougher for the vulnerable people for whom Grisamore says he's fighting.
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Showing 1-25 of 30
Questions To Ask Jeff Grisamore
1. Are your children receiving free lunches?
2. Is is true that your wife is expecting again? Isn't Prader Willi a genetic disorder that is passed on from the father?
3. Did Bill Kenney pay for your house? Is is true that you don't have a mortgage?
4. Is is true that your charity is now going through a charity clearing house? Are there public records available to show what your charity revenues are and what salary you are being paid?
5. Did you vote against children with autism being able to go to a different school if their school was not doing it's job?
6. Have you demanded that the Lee's Summit school district start providing the services that children with special needs are federally guaranteed?
7. Did you ask to be on the Missouri Blue Ribbon Autism Panel and were told that NO Representatives were going to be on the Panel?
8. You stated that you were going to be on the Missouri Autism Commission. The list came out and you were not on it. Why not?
9. What is the name of the church that you were a minister at?
10. Have you ever worked for a public corporation? Does your resume only have charitable organizations for your employment?
11. Are you or have you received Medicaid for your family?
12. Did your charity provide your vehicle and boat? Are they still providing your vehicles?
He has never listed any occupation other than minister and charity work. He makes a six figure salary from his position in his charity. That is until he started using a "Christian" clearing house and no longer has to make public his donations. His charity also provided him with a car and a boat.
I have been told that his children receive free lunches and yet he insists that he understands the struggles of families. Really? How could you? You've never held a real job. You make money from a charity for widows and orphans. Your family has health insurance paid for by tax payers. Tax payers are paying for your children's lunches. And now you are having another child for the tax payers to support.
You reach out to families that have children with disabilities and tell them that you understand because you had a child with a disability. You never had to fight a school district for services for your child. You have no idea what our families go through and how dare you suggest that you do. Your daughter's death was a terrible loss and I truly feel a great deal of sympathy for your family. However, don't use your child to make others believe that you understand their struggles. You don't have a clue.
You have lied, manipulated, and scammed honest families into supporting you. You tell them that you will be their voice. You raise their hopes. Then you do nothing. You lie and tell them what you think that they want to hear. You are good. But, you're not that good. You leave trails and intelligent people are finding them.
I'm so disappointed that your smear campaign and lies have once again netted you a place in Missouri politics. It just goes to show that voters do a poor job of finding out the truth about their candidates. Hopefully in two years they will do a better job. They won't have all of the big elections to think about and they might actually do their homework and find out that all is not what it seems.
Questions To Ask Jeff Grisamore 1. Are your children receiving free lunches? 2. Is is true that your wife is expecting again? Isn't Prader Willi a genetic disorder that is passed on from the father? 3. Did Bill Kenney pay for your house? Is is true that you don't have a mortgage? 4. Is is true that your charity is now going through a charity clearing house? Are there public records available to show what your charity revenues are and what salary you are being paid? 5. Did you vote against children with autism being able to go to a different school if their school was not doing it's job? 6. Have you demanded that the Lee's Summit school district start providing the services that children with special needs are federally guaranteed? 7. Did you ask to be on the Missouri Blue Ribbon Autism Panel and were told that NO Representatives were going to be on the Panel? 8. You stated that you were going to be on the Missouri Autism Commission. The list came out and you were not on it. Why not? 9. What is the name of the church that you were a minister at? 10. Have you ever worked for a public corporation? Does your resume only have charitable organizations for your employment? 11. Are you or have you received Medicaid for your family? 12. Did your charity provide your vehicle and boat? Are they still providing your vehicles? He has never listed any occupation other than minister and charity work. He makes a six figure salary from his position in his charity. That is until he started using a "Christian" clearing house and no longer has to make public his donations. His charity also provided him with a car and a boat. I have been told that his children receive free lunches and yet he insists that he understands the struggles of families. Really? How could you? You've never held a real job. You make money from a charity for widows and orphans. Your family has health insurance paid for by tax payers. Tax payers are paying for your children's lunches. And now you are having another child for the tax payers to support. You reach out to families that have children with disabilities and tell them that you understand because you had a child with a disability. You never had to fight a school district for services for your child. You have no idea what our families go through and how dare you suggest that you do. Your daughter's death was a terrible loss and I truly feel a great deal of sympathy for your family. However, don't use your child to make others believe that you understand their struggles. You don't have a clue. You have lied, manipulated, and scammed honest families into supporting you. You tell them that you will be their voice. You raise their hopes. Then you do nothing. You lie and tell them what you think that they want to hear. You are good. But, you're not that good. You leave trails and intelligent people are finding them. I'm so disappointed that your smear campaign and lies have once again netted you a place in Missouri politics. It just goes to show that voters do a poor job of finding out the truth about their candidates. Hopefully in two years they will do a better job. They won't have all of the big elections to think about and they might actually do their homework and find out that all is not what it seems.
David - Typical American idiot! If the people with disabilities and their families stayed out of the effort to support those with disabilities, there would be very few people involved in the effort. Yeah, we don�t like to hear personal stories about someone with a disability when it comes to actually doing something to help them, we want to push them aside and hide them � we don�t want to see it, we don�t want to feel like we might need to help. Typical! If some hear the truth about the huge need in caring for someone with a disability people might just be moved with compassion they might do the righ thing. So, yeah, let�s keep everyone who has anything to do with someone with a disability quiet and out of the picture, then maybe we�ll forget they are there. Maybe they�ll just die off and go away. What a crock!
To the writer of the piece on Grisamore I ask - do you have someone close to you, a child who is severely disabled? I doubt it or you would not be speaking so ignorantly! Taking care of someone you love and care for full time is a huge burden, it�s emotionally and mentally taxing to the point that many people quit, there is a very high divorce rate among families that care for disabled children. The fact that Mr. Grisamore uses his experience to help others in a circumstance that he CAN relate to is admirable not something that should bring a negative comment like yours. Many of those who are in need simply cry help, when no one answers they complain maybe, they become bitter, they give up on our system that does so little to help. Mr. Grisamore has done the opposite, he�s taken the bad circumstance in his life and tried to help others. I commend him! Those who ignorantly criticize his efforts are the ones who should keep silent.
David - Typical American idiot! If the people with disabilities and their families stayed out of the effort to support those with disabilities, there would be very few people involved in the effort. Yeah, we don’t like to hear personal stories about someone with a disability when it comes to actually doing something to help them, we want to push them aside and hide them – we don’t want to see it, we don’t want to feel like we might need to help. Typical! If some hear the truth about the huge need in caring for someone with a disability people might just be moved with compassion they might do the righ thing. So, yeah, let’s keep everyone who has anything to do with someone with a disability quiet and out of the picture, then maybe we’ll forget they are there. Maybe they’ll just die off and go away. What a crock!
To the writer of the piece on Grisamore I ask - do you have someone close to you, a child who is severely disabled? I doubt it or you would not be speaking so ignorantly! Taking care of someone you love and care for full time is a huge burden, it’s emotionally and mentally taxing to the point that many people quit, there is a very high divorce rate among families that care for disabled children. The fact that Mr. Grisamore uses his experience to help others in a circumstance that he CAN relate to is admirable not something that should bring a negative comment like yours. Many of those who are in need simply cry help, when no one answers they complain maybe, they become bitter, they give up on our system that does so little to help. Mr. Grisamore has done the opposite, he’s taken the bad circumstance in his life and tried to help others. I commend him! Those who ignorantly criticize his efforts are the ones who should keep silent.
I think Jeff has done courageous work in using his daughter's death for campaign money
Richards
Missouri Treatment Centers
I think Jeff has done courageous work in using his daughter's death for campaign money Richards Missouri Treatment Centers
Blue Blog Exclusive: Jeff Grisamore Funded By The Predatory Loan Industry AND Lobbyists
State Representative Jeff Grisamore (R-Lee's Summit) is facing a tough uphill re-election bid this year. Sources inside the Republican circles tell us that Grisamore is lazy at fundraising and is just not liked by fellow Republicans. He also lacks name recognition.
This may explain why he has resorted to massive funding from the Pay Day Loan Industry:
THIS QUARTER GRISAMORE TOOK OVER $2,000 FROM THE PAY DAY LOAN INDUSTRY.
THAT EQUATES TO OVER 40% OF HIS TOTAL DOLLARS RAISED THIS QUARTER AND MORE THAN HE RAISED LAST QUARTER TOTAL!
A Blue Reader from inside Grisamore's district also pointed out that since Grisamore has taken office, there have been at least 3 or more Pay Day Loan Shark companies that have opened inside his district!!
Grisamore's endorsement of the Pay Day Loan Industry is sad and out of touch with average Missouri voters.
By taking dollars at such high levels from the Pay Day Loan Sharks, Grisamore is endorsing the use of 400% interest rates on small dollar loans to working class Missourians and residents of Lee's Summit.
By refusing to regulate this industry he is approving the flooding of communities by predatory loan companies searching for struggling mothers, students and neighbors. It is because of guys like Grisamore, Missouri is now one of the top in the nation for profits by predatory loan companies to the tune of over $300 million dollars last year alone.
Spread the word and demand Jeff Grisamore answer for his endorsement of this industries unethical practices.
Committee: CITIZENS FOR JEFF GRISAMOREReport Date: 4/15/2008
A. ITEMIZED CONTRIBUTIONS RECEIVED FROM COMMITTEES REGARDLESS OF THE AMOUNT, OR FROM PERSONS GIVING MORE THAN $100 TO A COMMITTEE.
Committee
Name, AddressAnd Occupation
Date Received- - - - -AggregateTo Date
Amount ReceivedMonetary orIn-Kind
No
QC Holding, Inc. 9401 Indian Creek Parkway, Suite 1500 Overland Park, KS 66210
01/18/2008- - - - -0
$325.00Monetary
Yes
Missouri Freedom P.O. Box 1792 Jefferson City, MO 65102
03/04/2008- - - - -0
$325.00Monetary
No
Checks into Cash Missouri, Inc. P.O. Box 550 Cleveland, TN 37364
02/25/2008- - - - -0
$325.00Monetary
No
Advance America 135 N. Church Street Spartanburg, SC 29306
02/25/2008- - - - -0
$325.00Monetary
No
The 409 Group, Inc. (address not provided)
02/25/2008- - - - -0
$325.00Monetary
-------------Lobbyists----------------------------------
(Lobbyist for Pay Day Loan QC Financial Services)
John Bardgett & Associates 16141 Swingley Ridge Road, #110 Chesterfield, MO 63017
02/08/2008- - - - -0
$325.00Monetary
No
(Former Lobbyist for numerous Predatory Loan Companies)
James R. Moody & Associates 417 E. High Street Jefferson City, MO 65102
03/03/2008- - - - -0
$150.00Monetary
http://blogccp.blogspot.com/se...
We all know about conflicts of interest; our mommas taught us to avoid them. You can't be in charge of the cookie jar and be dipping into it. That is, however, exactly what Jeff Grisamore is doing. According to KC Blue Blog and the St. Louis Post Dispatch, when Blunt announced that he was going to start giving state monies to churches to do the state's social services, Rep. Grisamore was at Blunt's side. Frequent readers of this blog will know I am not ashamed of my religion, but sure don't want my politics and religion mixed.
Grisamore makes $120,000 a year as president of the Alliance for Orphans and Widows (sounds like a really good cause). If you go to their website, don't expect much, its under construction. The conflict of interest arises when Grisamore sponsored legislation so the faith based organizations could get payed to do the state's social services work. The Bill is HB 888 and establishes the Faith-Based Organization Liaison Act.
Now, the ethics problems arise. Go to Jeff's political website and his address is listed as 305 S.W. Market Street. Go to the web site of the Alliance for Orphans and Widows and its address is, you guessed it, 305 S.W. Market Street. It gets even better, the two organizations share a phone number, too. 816-225-5695. At this point, it kinda gets sad. Representative Grisamore pays for the phone number out of campaign funds, according to his most recent MEC filing.
Don't mix politics and religion. Rep. Grisamore, please give one up (preferably, not God). Either it is a political office or a non-profit office (the website says they are in critical need of tax deductible contributions). It can't be both for you to keep your 501(c)3) status.
Rep. Jeff Grisamore (47th) is weak on public education. He can co-sponsor a resolution calling for early childhood education, but falls short after that.
Rep. Grisamore represents much of Lee's Summit. I have many friends in Eastern Jackson County and they love their public schools. The Republicans in Jefferson City sure aren't helping out Lee's Summit's schools. Grisamore told the Missouri State Teachers Association he wanted to find sustainable funding for public schools. What has he done - nothing!! The Federal Government has said Missouri Schools are failing under No Child Left Behind. The Lee's Summit Journal has written about the difficulty in Lee's Summit schools complying with MAP tests and No Child Left Behind. The Lee's Summit School District's own web site discusses the confusion regarding the district receiving a less than desirable rating under No Child Left Behind.
The funding of public schools in Missouri and Lee's Summit is so dire that a new bond issuance was sought in Lee's Summit and this Q & A appears on the Lee's Summit web site.
Q: What percentage of the R-7 budget is funded by the state? How has this declined?
A: The impact of state losses on our local schools is apparent when examining the R-7 budget�s declining percentage of state funds. The Missouri Foundation Formula goal is to fund 50 percent of local school district operating budgets, although Lee�s Summit R-7 has never received close to 50 percent of its funding from the state. During the 1998-99 school year, state funding made up 35 percent of the R-7 operating budget. By the 2004-05 school year, state funding of R-7 schools dropped to 31 percent. Other categories of state aid appropriations have also been reduced significantly, impacting total state funding included in the R-7 budget. Across the state, the average percent of public school district revenue coming from state funding is almost 35 percent.
Grisamore has done little in Jefferson City, including ignoring his important work on the Environmental Committee and ignoring the Catholic church's call to restore Medicaid cuts to the poor and the sick children of our state. What has Grisamore done to improve funding from Missouri for Lee's Summit schools - nothing. He is a member of the majority party, so there is no excuses. Maybe we need a different party in the majority
The KC Blue Blog recently reported about Republican Jeff Grisamore's (R-Lees Summit) serious conflict of interest in sponsoring faith based initiatives in Missouri. Governor Blunt joined with Grisamore to stand at the pulpit of a church to sign a bill, not only grossly politicizing faith but potentially sending hundreds of thousands of dollars to groups that may benefit Grisamore.
It looks like it's getting worse.
As Blog CCP and Gone Mild reported--and subsequently followed up by a series of explanations at 2am from State Rep Grisamore that contradict themselves--the conflicts between Grisamore's "Faith based charity" company and his campaign/political life seem to cross hairs when it benefits him most.
Not only is Grisamore being provided a salary of $109,783 from this "small non-profit charity" with what appears to be another $109,000 allotted for discretionary spending in management and fundraising; but Grisamore also happens to share a phone line with his campaign and non-profit. They are the exact same.
Additionally, Grisamore's "small non-profit "charity"" (that happens to allot him possibly over $200,000 in personal gain) shares the exact same address as his campaign. Grisamore states that his campaign pays for one of the suites (which we are not finding in his ethics reports) while his company pays for the other suite. Yet, on page 21 of the tax reports his company claims to pay for the entire building and not just one suite?
Passing legislation for personal gain is grossly disgusting. Attempting to hide it behind the shield of poverty stricken children worldwide is even more pathetic. Grisamore claims that he needs the money because he has a large family (around 10 kids). Hiding behind the size of a family, to dodge conflicts of interest, is not right. Taking between $120,000 and $200,000 from a charitable organization that is supposed to go to the poor is not either.
We haven't even mentioned the fact that this is a non-profit meaning it attempts to get certain tax exempt status. Grisamore is also getting state health care and an additional $40,000 per year in taxpayer dollars as a state representative. He also stated in a comment on Blog CCP that he gets a company car as well.
How much money is he taking from taxpayers when you combine these things?
It appears as though Rep. Grisamore has found the ultimate way to live off taxpayers and other people, behind the claim of helping the poor.
The good people of Lee's Summit and Missouri deserve so much better than a man that lives the high life off others, gets rich on faith and attacks the morality of others such as his opponent in 2006 Rev. Tom Haley. Our understanding of that race was that Grisamore's campaign and the Missouri Republican Party attacked Rev. Haley in over the line personal ways.
He also sent out an email asking for campaign donations from families that are affected by autism. He said that he didn't want to get money from special interest groups. Well, he is endorsed by the NEA and the School District. Those interests are pretty special to me.
Here is a portion of his "Urgent Request"
I urgently need your help. To continue my fight for the disabled and their families, I need to raise significant funds for my re-election this year. My ability to influence funding and services for the disabled for years to come is related to how much I can raise for my campaign.
March 31st is an important deadline, as April quarterly reports for campaign financial disclosures will show contributions received through March 31st. Any and all contributions that I can receive by March 31st will greatly help our cause of advocating for the disabled.
My goal is to raise up an army of grassroots supporters by the hundreds and thousands who will stand with me to fight for the disabled and give them a stronger voice in Jefferson City.
My passion driven priorities for the disabled is very innovative and ambitious, but I can't do it without your help. I need an army of grassroots supporters to stand behind my campaign so that I can raise enough funding to assume future chairmanships and leadership in the House.
Contributions of any amount up to and totaling $325 per person in the primary cycle (now through August 5th) and $325 in the general election cycle (8/6 through 11/4). Couples can give up to $650 now in two separate checks for $325. Children 14 and over can do the same.
For those who can't give that much, even $30 is helpful and just $3 can count you among our coalition for the disabled and make a statement as we mobilize an army of supporters to fight and advocate for individuals with disabilities.
Blue Blog Exclusive: Jeff Grisamore Funded By The Predatory Loan Industry AND Lobbyists State Representative Jeff Grisamore (R-Lee's Summit) is facing a tough uphill re-election bid this year. Sources inside the Republican circles tell us that Grisamore is lazy at fundraising and is just not liked by fellow Republicans. He also lacks name recognition. This may explain why he has resorted to massive funding from the Pay Day Loan Industry: THIS QUARTER GRISAMORE TOOK OVER $2,000 FROM THE PAY DAY LOAN INDUSTRY. THAT EQUATES TO OVER 40% OF HIS TOTAL DOLLARS RAISED THIS QUARTER AND MORE THAN HE RAISED LAST QUARTER TOTAL! A Blue Reader from inside Grisamore's district also pointed out that since Grisamore has taken office, there have been at least 3 or more Pay Day Loan Shark companies that have opened inside his district!! Grisamore's endorsement of the Pay Day Loan Industry is sad and out of touch with average Missouri voters. By taking dollars at such high levels from the Pay Day Loan Sharks, Grisamore is endorsing the use of 400% interest rates on small dollar loans to working class Missourians and residents of Lee's Summit. By refusing to regulate this industry he is approving the flooding of communities by predatory loan companies searching for struggling mothers, students and neighbors. It is because of guys like Grisamore, Missouri is now one of the top in the nation for profits by predatory loan companies to the tune of over $300 million dollars last year alone. Spread the word and demand Jeff Grisamore answer for his endorsement of this industries unethical practices. Committee: CITIZENS FOR JEFF GRISAMOREReport Date: 4/15/2008 A. ITEMIZED CONTRIBUTIONS RECEIVED FROM COMMITTEES REGARDLESS OF THE AMOUNT, OR FROM PERSONS GIVING MORE THAN $100 TO A COMMITTEE. Committee Name, AddressAnd Occupation Date Received- - - - -AggregateTo Date Amount ReceivedMonetary orIn-Kind No QC Holding, Inc. 9401 Indian Creek Parkway, Suite 1500 Overland Park, KS 66210 01/18/2008- - - - -0 $325.00Monetary Yes Missouri Freedom P.O. Box 1792 Jefferson City, MO 65102 03/04/2008- - - - -0 $325.00Monetary No Checks into Cash Missouri, Inc. P.O. Box 550 Cleveland, TN 37364 02/25/2008- - - - -0 $325.00Monetary No Advance America 135 N. Church Street Spartanburg, SC 29306 02/25/2008- - - - -0 $325.00Monetary No The 409 Group, Inc. (address not provided) 02/25/2008- - - - -0 $325.00Monetary -------------Lobbyists---------------------------------- (Lobbyist for Pay Day Loan QC Financial Services) John Bardgett & Associates 16141 Swingley Ridge Road, #110 Chesterfield, MO 63017 02/08/2008- - - - -0 $325.00Monetary No (Former Lobbyist for numerous Predatory Loan Companies) James R. Moody & Associates 417 E. High Street Jefferson City, MO 65102 03/03/2008- - - - -0 $150.00Monetary http://blogccp.blogspot.com/search/label/Grisamore We all know about conflicts of interest; our mommas taught us to avoid them. You can't be in charge of the cookie jar and be dipping into it. That is, however, exactly what Jeff Grisamore is doing. According to KC Blue Blog and the St. Louis Post Dispatch, when Blunt announced that he was going to start giving state monies to churches to do the state's social services, Rep. Grisamore was at Blunt's side. Frequent readers of this blog will know I am not ashamed of my religion, but sure don't want my politics and religion mixed. Grisamore makes $120,000 a year as president of the Alliance for Orphans and Widows (sounds like a really good cause). If you go to their website, don't expect much, its under construction. The conflict of interest arises when Grisamore sponsored legislation so the faith based organizations could get payed to do the state's social services work. The Bill is HB 888 and establishes the Faith-Based Organization Liaison Act. Now, the ethics problems arise. Go to Jeff's political website and his address is listed as 305 S.W. Market Street. Go to the web site of the Alliance for Orphans and Widows and its address is, you guessed it, 305 S.W. Market Street. It gets even better, the two organizations share a phone number, too. 816-225-5695. At this point, it kinda gets sad. Representative Grisamore pays for the phone number out of campaign funds, according to his most recent MEC filing. Don't mix politics and religion. Rep. Grisamore, please give one up (preferably, not God). Either it is a political office or a non-profit office (the website says they are in critical need of tax deductible contributions). It can't be both for you to keep your 501(c)3) status. Rep. Jeff Grisamore (47th) is weak on public education. He can co-sponsor a resolution calling for early childhood education, but falls short after that. Rep. Grisamore represents much of Lee's Summit. I have many friends in Eastern Jackson County and they love their public schools. The Republicans in Jefferson City sure aren't helping out Lee's Summit's schools. Grisamore told the Missouri State Teachers Association he wanted to find sustainable funding for public schools. What has he done - nothing!! The Federal Government has said Missouri Schools are failing under No Child Left Behind. The Lee's Summit Journal has written about the difficulty in Lee's Summit schools complying with MAP tests and No Child Left Behind. The Lee's Summit School District's own web site discusses the confusion regarding the district receiving a less than desirable rating under No Child Left Behind. The funding of public schools in Missouri and Lee's Summit is so dire that a new bond issuance was sought in Lee's Summit and this Q & A appears on the Lee's Summit web site. Q: What percentage of the R-7 budget is funded by the state? How has this declined? A: The impact of state losses on our local schools is apparent when examining the R-7 budget’s declining percentage of state funds. The Missouri Foundation Formula goal is to fund 50 percent of local school district operating budgets, although Lee’s Summit R-7 has never received close to 50 percent of its funding from the state. During the 1998-99 school year, state funding made up 35 percent of the R-7 operating budget. By the 2004-05 school year, state funding of R-7 schools dropped to 31 percent. Other categories of state aid appropriations have also been reduced significantly, impacting total state funding included in the R-7 budget. Across the state, the average percent of public school district revenue coming from state funding is almost 35 percent. Grisamore has done little in Jefferson City, including ignoring his important work on the Environmental Committee and ignoring the Catholic church's call to restore Medicaid cuts to the poor and the sick children of our state. What has Grisamore done to improve funding from Missouri for Lee's Summit schools - nothing. He is a member of the majority party, so there is no excuses. Maybe we need a different party in the majority The KC Blue Blog recently reported about Republican Jeff Grisamore's (R-Lees Summit) serious conflict of interest in sponsoring faith based initiatives in Missouri. Governor Blunt joined with Grisamore to stand at the pulpit of a church to sign a bill, not only grossly politicizing faith but potentially sending hundreds of thousands of dollars to groups that may benefit Grisamore. It looks like it's getting worse. As Blog CCP and Gone Mild reported--and subsequently followed up by a series of explanations at 2am from State Rep Grisamore that contradict themselves--the conflicts between Grisamore's "Faith based charity" company and his campaign/political life seem to cross hairs when it benefits him most. Not only is Grisamore being provided a salary of $109,783 from this "small non-profit charity" with what appears to be another $109,000 allotted for discretionary spending in management and fundraising; but Grisamore also happens to share a phone line with his campaign and non-profit. They are the exact same. Additionally, Grisamore's "small non-profit "charity"" (that happens to allot him possibly over $200,000 in personal gain) shares the exact same address as his campaign. Grisamore states that his campaign pays for one of the suites (which we are not finding in his ethics reports) while his company pays for the other suite. Yet, on page 21 of the tax reports his company claims to pay for the entire building and not just one suite? Passing legislation for personal gain is grossly disgusting. Attempting to hide it behind the shield of poverty stricken children worldwide is even more pathetic. Grisamore claims that he needs the money because he has a large family (around 10 kids). Hiding behind the size of a family, to dodge conflicts of interest, is not right. Taking between $120,000 and $200,000 from a charitable organization that is supposed to go to the poor is not either. We haven't even mentioned the fact that this is a non-profit meaning it attempts to get certain tax exempt status. Grisamore is also getting state health care and an additional $40,000 per year in taxpayer dollars as a state representative. He also stated in a comment on Blog CCP that he gets a company car as well. How much money is he taking from taxpayers when you combine these things? It appears as though Rep. Grisamore has found the ultimate way to live off taxpayers and other people, behind the claim of helping the poor. The good people of Lee's Summit and Missouri deserve so much better than a man that lives the high life off others, gets rich on faith and attacks the morality of others such as his opponent in 2006 Rev. Tom Haley. Our understanding of that race was that Grisamore's campaign and the Missouri Republican Party attacked Rev. Haley in over the line personal ways. He also sent out an email asking for campaign donations from families that are affected by autism. He said that he didn't want to get money from special interest groups. Well, he is endorsed by the NEA and the School District. Those interests are pretty special to me. Here is a portion of his "Urgent Request" I urgently need your help. To continue my fight for the disabled and their families, I need to raise significant funds for my re-election this year. My ability to influence funding and services for the disabled for years to come is related to how much I can raise for my campaign. March 31st is an important deadline, as April quarterly reports for campaign financial disclosures will show contributions received through March 31st. Any and all contributions that I can receive by March 31st will greatly help our cause of advocating for the disabled. My goal is to raise up an army of grassroots supporters by the hundreds and thousands who will stand with me to fight for the disabled and give them a stronger voice in Jefferson City. My passion driven priorities for the disabled is very innovative and ambitious, but I can't do it without your help. I need an army of grassroots supporters to stand behind my campaign so that I can raise enough funding to assume future chairmanships and leadership in the House. Contributions of any amount up to and totaling $325 per person in the primary cycle (now through August 5th) and $325 in the general election cycle (8/6 through 11/4). Couples can give up to $650 now in two separate checks for $325. Children 14 and over can do the same. For those who can't give that much, even $30 is helpful and just $3 can count you among our coalition for the disabled and make a statement as we mobilize an army of supporters to fight and advocate for individuals with disabilities.
I live in Jeff Grisamore's district. We have spoken to Representative Grisamore on several occasions including the countless hours meeting with parents at Atlanta Bread (2x), our meeting place at Legacy Christian Church and at Dairy Queen. Our issues in the school district after his 2 years of serving as our Representative, have not changed. What is different in Lee's Summit at this time? We were told we would have round table discussions with the Governor, with the Superintendent and LSR7 staff that make Special Education decisions. We have never heard anything more about this. We were told that he was going to work on a pilot program here in Lee's Summit regarding Autism. We have heard nothing from Jeff until we went looking to him for answers. The families that are having problems in the school district want answers about where Jeff Grisamore is at helping them? What can he do for Special Education? We are pleased that Rep. Grisamore is pushing for Health Insurance Coverage for Autism and is working on other Autism Related work. He is an active and strong advocate for children with Autism and of children with various disabilties.
Dear David,
I read this article and shake my head. I've had the honor of meeting Representative Grisamore, and I am totally impressed with his compassion. I am a 39 year old single Mom with Cerebral Palsy. I also have two sons with autism, ages 14 and 11. I am not in Representative Grisamore's district. During our visit, I offered to wait in the waiting room while the people in our group went in to talk with him. Representative Grisamore was gracious and kind enough to invite my sons and myself in to sit and visit with him. He could've very easily said, "Sorry, you're not in my district, so I don't have time for you." He did NOT do that. After speaking with others in my group, he looked me straight in the eye and asked, "What are your concerns? How can I help you and your sons?" That totally blew my mind away.
As for Representative Grisamore speaking about his daughter, he does that for a VERY important reason. He is trying help us see that he has walked in our shoes. Ok, so let's look at this a different route. Here is my example, Let's say you are the founder of a Cerebral Palsy support group. Ok, now the new "rules" say you cannot ever speak about your child who has Cerebral Palsy. Ummm, excuse me, how are the other parents with children with Cerebral Palsy ever going to see that you have a clue about what Cerebral Palsy is if you NEVER can speak about your own child with Cerebral Palsy?? Representative Grisamore, I thank you for sharing your daughter's story over and over again. It does drive home to the people with disabilities that you are in the same boat with all of us.
Kelly R. Knosby
Lone Jack, MO
I live in Jeff Grisamore's district. We have spoken to Representative Grisamore on several occasions including the countless hours meeting with parents at Atlanta Bread (2x), our meeting place at Legacy Christian Church and at Dairy Queen. Our issues in the school district after his 2 years of serving as our Representative, have not changed. What is different in Lee's Summit at this time? We were told we would have round table discussions with the Governor, with the Superintendent and LSR7 staff that make Special Education decisions. We have never heard anything more about this. We were told that he was going to work on a pilot program here in Lee's Summit regarding Autism. We have heard nothing from Jeff until we went looking to him for answers. The families that are having problems in the school district want answers about where Jeff Grisamore is at helping them? What can he do for Special Education? We are pleased that Rep. Grisamore is pushing for Health Insurance Coverage for Autism and is working on other Autism Related work. He is an active and strong advocate for children with Autism and of children with various disabilties.
Diagnosis of a loved one with a condition or disease can inspire family members to lead efforts for further research and/or to improve the lives of those enduring difficult challenges. Representative Jeff Grisamore and his wife experienced both the birth of a child with a disability as well as Rebekah's untimely death. Their heartfelt decision of organ donation is a continuing contribution for medical research. Bringing awareness of the importance of organ donation is to be commended. Those who critique the grief of parents having lost a child are presumptuous and unkind.
Grisamore's intention to work on behalf of ALL disabled might sometimes be overshadowed by those who differ in how best to achieve common goals. Ms. Tucker's comment of being 'put off' by the frequency with which Grisamore talks about Rebekah and the mention of her name at a rally for Disability Rights Day in Jefferson City is petty. We should all be working to raise awareness of the need for more funding for the entire disabled community. Hundreds of disabled persons remain on waiting lists for day programs, respite care, transportation, etc. These people and their families are the ones entitled to feel �put off�.
Legislators are known to support agendas of many organizations such as Right to Life, Pro Choice, NRA, AARP, NEA and Chamber of Commerce. We are na� to think members of such organizations do not financially contribute to the reelection of legislators who advocate their particular cause. The developmentally disabled community is not represented by wealthy, influential organizations. It is represented by families, care givers, advocates, self advocates and Representative Grisamore. Seeking support for his reelection is warranted. Some people can find fault no matter how the request is made.
The needs of children and adults with disabilities are being brought to the attention of legislators of both political parties by Grisamore. A more worthy public service career cannot be found when serving our most vulnerable citizens: the chosen career of Representative Jeff Grisamore.
Dear David, I read this article and shake my head. I've had the honor of meeting Representative Grisamore, and I am totally impressed with his compassion. I am a 39 year old single Mom with Cerebral Palsy. I also have two sons with autism, ages 14 and 11. I am not in Representative Grisamore's district. During our visit, I offered to wait in the waiting room while the people in our group went in to talk with him. Representative Grisamore was gracious and kind enough to invite my sons and myself in to sit and visit with him. He could've very easily said, "Sorry, you're not in my district, so I don't have time for you." He did NOT do that. After speaking with others in my group, he looked me straight in the eye and asked, "What are your concerns? How can I help you and your sons?" That totally blew my mind away. As for Representative Grisamore speaking about his daughter, he does that for a VERY important reason. He is trying help us see that he has walked in our shoes. Ok, so let's look at this a different route. Here is my example, Let's say you are the founder of a Cerebral Palsy support group. Ok, now the new "rules" say you cannot ever speak about your child who has Cerebral Palsy. Ummm, excuse me, how are the other parents with children with Cerebral Palsy ever going to see that you have a clue about what Cerebral Palsy is if you NEVER can speak about your own child with Cerebral Palsy?? Representative Grisamore, I thank you for sharing your daughter's story over and over again. It does drive home to the people with disabilities that you are in the same boat with all of us. Kelly R. Knosby Lone Jack, MO
Diagnosis of a loved one with a condition or disease can inspire family members to lead efforts for further research and/or to improve the lives of those enduring difficult challenges. Representative Jeff Grisamore and his wife experienced both the birth of a child with a disability as well as Rebekah's untimely death. Their heartfelt decision of organ donation is a continuing contribution for medical research. Bringing awareness of the importance of organ donation is to be commended. Those who critique the grief of parents having lost a child are presumptuous and unkind. Grisamore's intention to work on behalf of ALL disabled might sometimes be overshadowed by those who differ in how best to achieve common goals. Ms. Tucker's comment of being 'put off' by the frequency with which Grisamore talks about Rebekah and the mention of her name at a rally for Disability Rights Day in Jefferson City is petty. We should all be working to raise awareness of the need for more funding for the entire disabled community. Hundreds of disabled persons remain on waiting lists for day programs, respite care, transportation, etc. These people and their families are the ones entitled to feel “put off”. Legislators are known to support agendas of many organizations such as Right to Life, Pro Choice, NRA, AARP, NEA and Chamber of Commerce. We are naïve to think members of such organizations do not financially contribute to the reelection of legislators who advocate their particular cause. The developmentally disabled community is not represented by wealthy, influential organizations. It is represented by families, care givers, advocates, self advocates and Representative Grisamore. Seeking support for his reelection is warranted. Some people can find fault no matter how the request is made. The needs of children and adults with disabilities are being brought to the attention of legislators of both political parties by Grisamore. A more worthy public service career cannot be found when serving our most vulnerable citizens: the chosen career of Representative Jeff Grisamore.
In response to the above comments under number six, I am disappointed to read Sherri Tucker stands by her comments in the article. The many other autism groups, advocates and service providers know the sincerity of my passion to fight and advocate for children with autism and their families and those who care for them. This is my highest legislative priority and I am currently sponsoring three bills on autism.
To read that Mrs. Tucker "stands by her comments" that I have refused to meet with them was thoroughly rebutted in my 1st comment above. To read that those I have worked so hard to serve think "everything I do is to further my political career" is indeed disappointing.
I told Sherri that I have been "helping her by working 18 hours a day in Jefferson City to pass autism legislation since January." I also told her I would be e-mailing various autism groups as we continue to work on legislation, especially related to IEPs.
While I have gained much inspiration to advocate for Autism through the multiple meetings and hours I have spent with Sherri Tucker's autism support group, the three bills I am sponsoring did not come from them. Two of them are recommendations of the Missouri Blue Ribbon Panel and the other autism bill on education was developed in collaboration with educators.
Concerning the event at Beauchamps, I received an invitation to the event at my Capitol office and was eager to attend to show support for the autism community that we are working so hard to serve in Jefferson City. I was not told anything about not using the night to campaign and would not have--and did not do so. The election is seven months away. I am workind day and night to serve my constituents and, especially, those in the autism communities.
I have thoroughly responded to Sherri's e-mail that I received after that event and she received before writing the above post. During the event at Beauchamps, I did not "go from table to table talking about Rebekah and campaigning."
What I did do was talk to Bill Regan, a friend I know through mutual friends and Langsford Boys Home at one table, talked to Chase, a reporter from the Journal, who wanted to ask me some questions, and said hi to other friends I knew at another table, then spent the rest of my time there sitting at one table with Mike Allen and others who I know through EFECT (Encouraging Families with Exceptional Children Together). My campaign and Rebekah were not discussed.
It is very sad to be be so grossly and repeatedly misrepresented in a public forum like this by those I have worked so hard to serve. However, I can assure you this, no matter how much misrepresentation and antagonism I experience from a few in the autism community, I will continue to fight and advocate for children with autism and their families and those that care for them and am encouraged by how many groups in the greater autism community support our efforts on their behalf in Jefferson City.
We had a very encouraging hearing and press conference today on my autism insurance bill (HB 2265) and the NBC Today Show was here to film all of it for a story they are doing on Molly Schad, who was featured with her son with autism in a cover story in yesterday's St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
In response to the above comments under number six, I am disappointed to read Sherri Tucker stands by her comments in the article. The many other autism groups, advocates and service providers know the sincerity of my passion to fight and advocate for children with autism and their families and those who care for them. This is my highest legislative priority and I am currently sponsoring three bills on autism. To read that Mrs. Tucker "stands by her comments" that I have refused to meet with them was thoroughly rebutted in my 1st comment above. To read that those I have worked so hard to serve think "everything I do is to further my political career" is indeed disappointing. I told Sherri that I have been "helping her by working 18 hours a day in Jefferson City to pass autism legislation since January." I also told her I would be e-mailing various autism groups as we continue to work on legislation, especially related to IEPs. While I have gained much inspiration to advocate for Autism through the multiple meetings and hours I have spent with Sherri Tucker's autism support group, the three bills I am sponsoring did not come from them. Two of them are recommendations of the Missouri Blue Ribbon Panel and the other autism bill on education was developed in collaboration with educators. Concerning the event at Beauchamps, I received an invitation to the event at my Capitol office and was eager to attend to show support for the autism community that we are working so hard to serve in Jefferson City. I was not told anything about not using the night to campaign and would not have--and did not do so. The election is seven months away. I am workind day and night to serve my constituents and, especially, those in the autism communities. I have thoroughly responded to Sherri's e-mail that I received after that event and she received before writing the above post. During the event at Beauchamps, I did not "go from table to table talking about Rebekah and campaigning." What I did do was talk to Bill Regan, a friend I know through mutual friends and Langsford Boys Home at one table, talked to Chase, a reporter from the Journal, who wanted to ask me some questions, and said hi to other friends I knew at another table, then spent the rest of my time there sitting at one table with Mike Allen and others who I know through EFECT (Encouraging Families with Exceptional Children Together). My campaign and Rebekah were not discussed. It is very sad to be be so grossly and repeatedly misrepresented in a public forum like this by those I have worked so hard to serve. However, I can assure you this, no matter how much misrepresentation and antagonism I experience from a few in the autism community, I will continue to fight and advocate for children with autism and their families and those that care for them and am encouraged by how many groups in the greater autism community support our efforts on their behalf in Jefferson City. We had a very encouraging hearing and press conference today on my autism insurance bill (HB 2265) and the NBC Today Show was here to film all of it for a story they are doing on Molly Schad, who was featured with her son with autism in a cover story in yesterday's St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
I stand by my comments. I just spoke with Representative Grisamore on Saturday and he was asking me to send him more information so that he could write more bills. I recently ran for school board and my platform was special education. My only issue was the education that our children are not getting. It was the perfect opportunity to help children with special needs. Representative Grisamore didn't help at all with my campaign. When I asked him why he said that I didn't ask.
I recently had an event at Beauchamp's and Representative Grisamore found out about it. When I found out that he was coming I asked him to not use this night as a night to campaign. He didn't respond to my email and he went from table to table talking about Rebekah and campaigning. I told him that night that my campaign could use help. Here is what I wrote to him.
"I'm glad to see that you plan to come to dinner and support the Autism Alliance. It is a worthy cause. Will your whole family be attending? It will be a nice evening out for the family. The event is from 6:30-9:30. Folks are coming and going as they please. There is no certain time to be there. Hopefully the place will be full, but the wait shouldn't be too long. It will be dinner as usual, but with a smaller menu. That way it will be easier for the staff to get people in and out. There isn't going to be a formal meeting or time for speaking. We will just be serving food and giving a portion of the proceeds to charity. The Alliance will be signing people up for the walk and Royals tickets.
I sure could have used your help with my campaign to help children with special needs in the Lee's Summit district. As you know, that's how I ran my campaign and I have gotten slammed a lot. There haven't been a lot of public officials willing to stand up for our kids and I feel like the campaign could have been better if people weren't so afraid of standing up for what is right instead of standing with the majority. But, I feel like I have done what I know is right in my heart and that I can sleep at night knowing that I didn't let the administration beat me into being silent. At least I got the message out that Lee's Summit is not doing a good job with special needs. Even if everyone says that those kids just don't matter.
We are going to have some celebrities at our event. They are mostly from the Chiefs and Royals. I'm so pleased that we were able to get some faces that folks will recognize. It will really help out the Alliance.
See you on Thursday."
I stand by my comments. I just spoke with Representative Grisamore on Saturday and he was asking me to send him more information so that he could write more bills. I recently ran for school board and my platform was special education. My only issue was the education that our children are not getting. It was the perfect opportunity to help children with special needs. Representative Grisamore didn't help at all with my campaign. When I asked him why he said that I didn't ask. I recently had an event at Beauchamp's and Representative Grisamore found out about it. When I found out that he was coming I asked him to not use this night as a night to campaign. He didn't respond to my email and he went from table to table talking about Rebekah and campaigning. I told him that night that my campaign could use help. Here is what I wrote to him. "I'm glad to see that you plan to come to dinner and support the Autism Alliance. It is a worthy cause. Will your whole family be attending? It will be a nice evening out for the family. The event is from 6:30-9:30. Folks are coming and going as they please. There is no certain time to be there. Hopefully the place will be full, but the wait shouldn't be too long. It will be dinner as usual, but with a smaller menu. That way it will be easier for the staff to get people in and out. There isn't going to be a formal meeting or time for speaking. We will just be serving food and giving a portion of the proceeds to charity. The Alliance will be signing people up for the walk and Royals tickets. I sure could have used your help with my campaign to help children with special needs in the Lee's Summit district. As you know, that's how I ran my campaign and I have gotten slammed a lot. There haven't been a lot of public officials willing to stand up for our kids and I feel like the campaign could have been better if people weren't so afraid of standing up for what is right instead of standing with the majority. But, I feel like I have done what I know is right in my heart and that I can sleep at night knowing that I didn't let the administration beat me into being silent. At least I got the message out that Lee's Summit is not doing a good job with special needs. Even if everyone says that those kids just don't matter. We are going to have some celebrities at our event. They are mostly from the Chiefs and Royals. I'm so pleased that we were able to get some faces that folks will recognize. It will really help out the Alliance. See you on Thursday."
I really wish The Pitch would target the many individuals and businesses that so often discrimate and exclude those with disabilities instead of spending their time writing articles that put a legislator working hard to improve services for those with disabliities. I have a son with a disability and am forever thankful to Reprsentative Grisamore and others that make disability issues their priority. When you have a child with a disability you rely on policymakers to create laws and make decisions to improve services for those with disabilities. Representative Grisamore has spent his time in Jefferson City advocating and educating fellow legislators so that changes can be made in Missouri for those with disabilities.
On March 29, 2008 I had the opportunity to visit with Representative Grisamore, Representative Yates and Representative Krause in Jefferson City. I was very appreciative of their time especially of Grisamore and Yates who spent more than 1 1/2 hours with us. I found out later that they not only supported us but they went against the party vote and acquired an additional $2 million dollars of special education services for the home and later the next week acquired an additional $2.5 million for early childhood special education. As you know our system is under funded for special needs children whether it be at home or school and I really believe that we have three strong advocates with us for this great cause. They truly are advocates for those with disabilities. I have an open door policy with them and feel they are willing to hear my opinions and not only be attentive but productive as we work together to help families of children with disabilities in Missouri. I can not thank them enough for their service and dedication to our children. I would be happy to support each one with re-election if I could.
I sent this tonight in response to the article. I am just sickened by the article. I have asked other to write as well. If we can bombard them with letters maybe they will get the truth.
As a parent of 3 children with disabilities I feel so blessed to have Representative Grisamore representing the 47th district. Over the years I have developed relationships with many previous legislators. While they have all been willing to listen to my concerns as a parent of a child with disabilities none have tried to do as much as Representative Grisamore has during his time in Jefferson City. It is clear to me that having Rebekah in his life has given him the drive and passion for people with disabilities. Until you have experienced the life of raising a child with a disability you can not possibly imagine the physical, emotional and financial stress it causes on a family. It is for that reason that Representative Grisamore get's it and is willing to advocate for those that can not advocate for themselves.
I really wish The Pitch would target the many individuals and businesses that so often discrimate and exclude those with disabilities instead of spending their time writing articles that put a legislator working hard to improve services for those with disabliities. I have a son with a disability and am forever thankful to Reprsentative Grisamore and others that make disability issues their priority. When you have a child with a disability you rely on policymakers to create laws and make decisions to improve services for those with disabilities. Representative Grisamore has spent his time in Jefferson City advocating and educating fellow legislators so that changes can be made in Missouri for those with disabilities.
On March 29, 2008 I had the opportunity to visit with Representative Grisamore, Representative Yates and Representative Krause in Jefferson City. I was very appreciative of their time especially of Grisamore and Yates who spent more than 1 1/2 hours with us. I found out later that they not only supported us but they went against the party vote and acquired an additional $2 million dollars of special education services for the home and later the next week acquired an additional $2.5 million for early childhood special education. As you know our system is under funded for special needs children whether it be at home or school and I really believe that we have three strong advocates with us for this great cause. They truly are advocates for those with disabilities. I have an open door policy with them and feel they are willing to hear my opinions and not only be attentive but productive as we work together to help families of children with disabilities in Missouri. I can not thank them enough for their service and dedication to our children. I would be happy to support each one with re-election if I could.
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