The Valparaiso Sunrise Kiwanis dedicate their time to serving our community and giving back through whatever resources they have. The 43 members meet every Tuesday morning at Suzie’s Café, inviting members of the community to speak 3 out of the 4 weeks. At their most recent meeting on May 17, Congressman Visclosky visited to present an update on discussions and changes in Washington D.C. and locally in Northwest Indiana.
Congressman Visclosky began his presentation by expressing his appreciation for the Sunrise Kiwanis, for all of the volunteering they do and help they provide in the community. He then went on to discuss some hot topics in the media right now, including the death of Osama bin Laden, the continuation of the fight against terrorism, budget issues, and controversy within Congress. “The average two members of Congress don’t hate each other,” Visclosky stated, emphasizing that the national media has put a negative spin on Congressional discussions, magnifying disagreements and overlooking how most of Congress is working together to create solutions.
In regard to budget concerns, the Congressman agreed that spending cannot continue in the way it currently operates. “It’s always been my belief to leave each generation better off than the last,” stated Visclosky, discussing looking at the entire budget to reallocate funds from areas that are not as beneficial as others. “I would hope as we return that people [Congress] are deliberate about their processes.” Wise spending is an investment, the Congressman went on to say, giving examples of investing money in Valparaiso University to attract faculty and students, creating jobs and stimulating the local economy. “We have to make investments so the young people stay here, see there is a reason, a good job to stay.”
To contact the Sunrise Kiwanis, mail to PO Box 1211, Valparaiso, IN 46384. Join the Kiwanis at their weekly Tuesday meetings, 7:00 am at Suzie's Cafe in Valparaiso!