SPOTLIGHT RACE: Brenda Bandy for KS-HD67
I did the math - 43 years. That is how long I have been in Manhattan.
I turned one in an apartment complex off Seth Child when my Dad was stationed at Fort Riley. I returned for 5th through 7th grade and again for my junior and senior years of high school.
Without the Army telling me where to move next, I chose to stay in Manhattan. After graduating from Kansas State University with a degree in Chemistry, I was in Minneapolis in grad school when I got a job offer that brought me back to …you guessed it - Manhattan!
I learned a lot about Manhattan and business while managing Westchester Park and Georgetown. I also met my husband, Rufus, who was in the Army. We had the good fortune to live in Germany for four years and then - you guessed it - we returned to Manhattan!
We chose Manhattan to raise our four children (and two dogs). Our children (not the dogs so much) benefited from the education they received from the amazing USD 383 school district.
As their interests took them places, mine did too. My volunteer work helping mothers and babies with breastfeeding took me to the Capitol to advocate for a law that protects a mother’s right to breastfeed wherever she has the right to be. Passing that law was the beginning of a 20-year commitment to passing policies that make raising a family or growing a business easier in Kansas.
I am a co-founder of the Kansas Breastfeeding Coalition, a non-profit that has improved breastfeeding rates across Kansas. I learned the value of building relationships, listening, and working with people who have different ideas to accomplish a singular goal.
My work in public health policymaking was recognized last fall by the Kansas Public Health Association’s highest award, the Samuel J. Crumbine Medal. This medal is given for meritorious service as well as state, regional, or national recognition related to the improvement of the health of Kansans and/or the environment of the state.
I have chosen Manhattan over and over again in my life. I want Manhattan to be a strong, viable choice for others.
That’s why I am running for House District 67.
https://www.bandyforkansas.com/